How Long Does Ballpoint Pen Ink Last?

Despite nearly everything being digitized in this day and age, pens are still valuable tools that haven’t completely gone out of style. In fact, ballpoint and gel pens are expected to grow in popularity in the coming years, showing that the market for writing instruments is thriving.

Ballpoint pens are the most popular because they are so easily accessible. But just how well do they stand the test of time? We know that some fountain pen inks are completely waterproof and can withstand elements such as light, heat, and water, but how long does ballpoint pen ink last? Here, we’ll answer just that.

How long does ballpoint pen ink last?

When it comes to determining how long you can write with a standard ballpoint pen, the answer can vary. But on average, a typical ballpoint pen can write on about 300 legal-sized pages. Depending on how much you write, a ballpoint pen can contain enough ink to last you at least a year or two of regular use. This is because ballpoint pens use oil-based ink, which is significantly thicker than other types of water-based ink. 

How long does it take for ballpoint pen ink to fade?

If you use a ballpoint pen for important documents and other pieces of writing such as a journal, you may expect the ink to last a long time once it’s written on the page. Most inks fade no matter what kind of material they are made of (with very few exceptions), but the rate at which it fades depends on the kind of ink used, paper type, and storage conditions. 

There are several advantages of writing with a ballpoint pen. We already know that ballpoint pen ink is thick, viscous, and oil-based, which makes it more difficult to smudge and fade than regular water-based ink. Paper type also matters when it comes to the longevity of ballpoint pen ink. Good-quality, heavy stocks of paper tend to absorb ink deeper into their fibers, making them ideal for preserving writing, no matter the type of ink used. 

Fortunately, it can take decades before ballpoint pen ink starts to fade, especially when preserved correctly. It is important to keep your writings stored away from direct heat and humidity. Keep documents, journals, and notebooks in cool, dry places, such as in drawers or air-tight storage boxes situated in a place that is kept at room temperature. 

So how long does ballpoint pen ink last? You can write for a few years using the same ballpoint pen, and if kept well, what you’ve written can last a lifetime and even beyond before it starts to fade. Whether you prefer LAMY or more luxurious brands like Montblanc, ballpoint pens are excellent writing tools that will continue to be practical and popular as long as there is paper to write on. 

Happy writing!

Written by EndlessPens Blogger Ramona Kabigting