When it comes to a paper planner, colored pens are a must have accessory! There are so many colored pens out there, it can be difficult to find the best colored pens for planners without going crazy.
Just want to see some pens? Click here to skip to our list of the best colored pens for your planner.
That’s why I have reviewed all of the various colored pens for planners I have tried over the years. There is truly something for everyone in this guide!
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Why Colored Pens for Planners?
First things first, why should you use colored pens for planners? Colored pens can be used in many many ways, in many different types of ways. Here are some ways I use color in my planners:
- Different colors based on activity (Home, School, Work, Etc).
- Different colors for headings for to do lists
- Different colors when taking notes, or brainstorming
- Different colors to draw out grids for tracking and bullet journaling
- Different colors to add emphasis to written text or activities
Adding color to your planner is a great way to really bring attention to things. For example, if you choose the color blue for work activities, you know immediately what is coming up at work by simply scanning your planner and notes for blue text.
Types of Colored Pens for Planners
There are many different types of pens out there, and pens for planners are no exception.
Depending on your preference you may want to use:
- Markers
- Felt Tip Pens
- Gel Pens
- Ball Point Pens
Each type of pen has its own pros and cons. Mostly, it comes to preference, and what feels the best for you when you write with it.
Now, without further ado, here is the list.
Best Colored Pens for Planners
When it comes to your paper planner, colored pens are a must have resource!
Take a look at the best colored pens for planners. There is something for everyone here. I have tried them all and have not been disappointed.
Tombow Dual Brush Pen Art Markers
These Tombow Dual Brush Pens are the gold standard when it comes to planner. One end is a brush pen perfect for lettering, and the other end has a fine point. The only downside to these is that you have a small form factor planner, the brush end may be overkill.
They come in a variety of colors, and come in convenient packs and groupings that naturally go together. Be sure to click the link to see all of the differnet sets avaialble.
The large brush form factor is not necessarily a bad thing, you can also use them to highlight blocks of time in your planner.
Tombow Fudenosuke Colors Set
If you have a smaller form factor planner (I'm looking at you Hobonichi fans), these Tombow Fudenosuke brush pens are a must have.
The have a finer, harder brush tip which makes them great to use for lettering, or just writing out headings.
BIC Cristal Xtra Bold Fashion Ballpoint Pen
If you are a fan of ball point pens, this is the option for you! Nothing can beat a classic ball point Bic pen, and this pack is full of vibrant color to help you coordinate your activities.
Staedtler Triplus Fineliner Pens, .3mm
I stumbled across these Staedtler pens by accident, and it was a very happy accident!
These ultra find .3mm pens are fantastic for simply writing, or drawing out grids and other layouts in your journal.
They also do not smudge or smear.
Sakura Pigma Micron pens 05 line Drawing 8 Color Set
If you are looking for anohter fine tip option that won't smudge, these Sakura Pigma Micron pens are a great option.
They are smudge proof and fade proof. They also come in a variety of different line sizes and colors.
This pack is great for getting started for any aspiring or established planner.
Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens, Medium Point
These a fantastic all around gel pens that comes in a multitude of colors.
They also do not smudge or smear, which every gel pen lover knows is very importaint.
Journal Planner Pens Colored Pens
This is an economical option if you are looking for lots of color with a small price tag.
They write great, and are a fantastic set.