Twist Stylus Pen vs Gel Pen: Which One to Pick?
By LEUCHTTURM1917 | Premium Notebooks, Bullet Journals ... | Published: 2026-10-18
Category: Comparisons
Compare the Drehgriffel Nr. 1 ballpoint and gel pens: ink type, writing feel, and best use cases to decide which suits your planner.
Quick Answer
Choose the Drehgriffel Nr. 1 ballpoint pen for document-proof, long-lasting ink that won't smudge, or the gel pen for a smoother, bolder writing experience ideal for everyday notes.
Ink type and writing feel
The ballpoint pen uses document-proof ink (ISO 12757-2) with strength M, making it a reliable choice for archival or important notes. The gel pen, on the other hand, delivers a 0.5 mm stroke with a ceramic ball bearing, which produces a smoother, more fluid line that many find pleasant for quick writing.
If you prioritize a crisp, consistent line that dries quickly and won't fade, the ballpoint is the safer bet. If you enjoy a slightly bolder, more effortless glide, the gel pen feels more responsive on paper.
Durability and refillability
Both pens share the same precision-milled aluminum and brass body, so durability is comparable. The ballpoint is refillable with available black or royal blue ink, while the gel pen comes with a black gel refill and is also refillable.
Consider how often you write and whether you prefer the convenience of a ballpoint's longer-lasting ink or the smoother performance of gel, which may require more frequent refills.
Trade-Offs at a Glance
- Ink permanence: Ballpoint uses document-proof ink that resists fading and smudging; gel ink is not specified as document-proof, so it may be less archival. Choose ballpoint if your notes must last without alteration.
- Writing smoothness: Gel pen's 0.5 mm stroke and ceramic ball bearing deliver a smoother glide; ballpoint offers a firmer, more controlled feel. Pick gel if you prefer a fluid writing experience for daily use.
- Refill options: Both are refillable, but ballpoint offers color choice (royal blue or black), while gel comes with black ink. If color variety matters, ballpoint gives you more flexibility.
Product Facts
- Bauhaus Edition, Drehgriffel Nr. 1, Twist Stylus Ballpoint Pen: Ballpoint pen with document-proof ink (ISO 12757-2), strength M, available in royal blue or black refill. Ideal for notes that need to stay legible and smudge-free over time, like planner entries or archival records.
Bauhaus Edition, Drehgriffel Nr. 1, Twist Stylus Ballpoint Pen - Drehgriffel Nr. 1, Twist Stylus Gel Pen: Gel pen with 0.5 mm stroke and ceramic ball bearing, Red Dot Design award winner. Provides a smoother writing experience with a finer line, making it comfortable for extended writing sessions.
Drehgriffel Nr. 1, Twist Stylus Gel Pen
Which One Fits You?
Best For
- Planner users who need smudge-proof, long-lasting ink for daily scheduling
- Professionals who want a pen that writes on various paper types without bleeding
Not For
- Writers who prefer a very smooth, fluid stroke and don't mind a shorter ink life
- Those who want a pen with a finer line than 0.5 mm for detailed work
