If you frequently fill up your fountain pen with ink from ink bottles, you’ll know that a fountain pen converter is essential. Since you are refilling the ink regularly, there is a high risk of spilling the ink in this process. This can be quite a hassle. Worry not because we’ve compiled a list to help you find the best fountain pen converter for all your creative needs.
These converters will not only help you to refill ink with ease but also can potentially prevent spills. We will look at converters from a wide variety of brands, including Parker, Waterman, and more. So, let’s dive in and take a look at some of the best fountain pen converters to help you fill ink faster.
1. Schmidt Universal Fountain Pen Ink Converter
Our first product, the Schmidt Universal pen ink converter can fit most European pens and it is quite durable. The best part is that it does not leak no matter how much you use it. On top of that, this product is compatible with a variety of pen brands.
Due to its length and overall size, you can use the Schmidt Universal converter with almost any fountain pen. This is a basic, international converter that will work with most fountain pens you will see in stationary or online stores.
Unfortunately, the biggest downside to the Schmidt Universal is that it doesn’t work well with the popular fountain pen brands: Parker, Waterman, and Cross. These brands have their own, respective converters. If you have a fountain pen from these top three brands then you might want to get the converters made specifically for those pens.
Things we like:
- It does not leak
- Excellent quality
- International converter that works for most European fountain pens
Things we don’t like:
- It is not compatible with a few famous brands
This converter is an excellent choice if you are looking for a leak-free tool and use a basic, European fountain pen.
2. Platinum Converter for Fountain Pen
The Platinum 500 converter is the perfect addition to the Platinum line of fountain pens. As the name suggests, this converter is of a high quality build with platinum detailing to add a premium touch. On top of that, its clear body will allow you to check the amount of ink you have left as you use your pen. Due to its size, this converter can be used with a lot of pens without any worries.
Considering its price range, we would say that this is an excellent product that offers a lot of quality for a reasonable price. The converter also holds a good amount of ink so you can be sure to get a lot of use out of this tool before you run out.
One point against this product is an issue some users have had with the seal of the tube. The plunger mechanism has been known to malfunction as well. This can cause the converter to stop draining ink and may cause back-ups that can lead to leakage. Use with care and make sure not to overfill this converter.
Things we like:
- Premium quality
- It can fit a wide range of pens
- It holds a good amount of ink
Things we don’t like:
- Sometimes, the plunger can malfunction and cause a leak.
Users of Platinum fountain pens will certainly want to give this product a go. It fits all Platinum pens and can hold a good amount of ink before running out.
3. ZenZoi Fountain Pen Ink Converter
ZenZoi offers a practical ink converter with a generic design that can fit almost any fountain pen. While they are mostly made for Schmidt Nibs and ZenZoi fountain pens, these converters also work well with most Japanese and German fountain pens.
To sweeten the deal, this item comes in a value pack of 4 converters at a price that won’t break the bank. This is an added bonus if you are working on an art project and want to quickly switch between ink colors for a single pen. Having that additional flexibility is always a welcome addition.
The ZenZoi Fountain Pen Ink Converter is an excellent choice for the practical fountain pen user that appreciates quality for value. While this isn’t the fanciest converter on the market you can be sure this product will get the job done.
Things we like:
- Easy to use.
- Comes in a value pack of 4
- Offers versatility to the users.
Things we don’t like:
- The overall quality can feel cheap.
This converter is ideal for people that are looking to get their money’s worth. It comes in a pack of 4 which allows you to use it on multiple pens at once. On top of that, it is easy to use. So, even if you haven’t used a converter before, you won’t have a problem with this one.
4. 10 PCS Fountain Pen Short Converters
Speaking of value packs, these converters come in a value pack of 10 pieces. They are compatible with Jinhao, Duke, and most Chinese pens. It fits the pen relatively well so you don’t have to worry about any leaks.
Before making your purchase, keep in mind that other than the pens mentioned above, this product rarely fits other fountain pens. While you can fit it on other pens here and there, it is best to use this product with the compatible brands. Otherwise, it the converter won’t fit properly and may break if you use force.
Things we like:
- Works well with compatible pens
- Comes in a value pack of 10 pieces
- Ideal for pocket pens
Things we don’t like:
- Does not offer versatility to the user
Since this product comes in a value pack of 10 converters, it can save you a lot of money and the hassle of getting new converters again and again. Plus, you can use it on multiple pens at once without having to worry about running out.
5. KOFUN Universal Fountain Pen Ink Converter
This is by far the easiest-to-use converter that we have come across so far. It is a universal sized converter, meaning there is a good chance this product will fit it on your generic fountain pen. The metal design adds to its durability and prevents leaks or damage to the item.
The KOFUN converter is user friendly, simply pump the plunger to fill the cavity with ink, attach to the pen, and you’re ready to go! KOFUN also provides excellent customer service, so they’ll gladly assist you if you are facing an issue with their product.
The only major issue that we found is that this item isn’t often readily available. So if you are looking to make a purchase, you’ll have to act quick and buy these items before they go out of stock.
Things we like:
- Extremely durable
- Easy to use thanks to the push and pull plunger system
- It can fit the majority of pens
Things we don’t like:
- It might not be readily available
If you’re looking for an easy-to-use product that is durable, then look no further than the KOFUN Universal Fountain Pen Ink Converter. Its versatility makes it a great option if you are in need of a generic style converter.
Buying Guide
Finding the perfect converter can feel impossible if you do not know what you’re looking for. There are so many options available in terms of materials, size, and brand. Below we’ve compiled a list of some of the most important factors to look out for when buying a converter for your fountain pen:
Durability
This is the most important element to consider when looking for a fountain pen converter. If you get an inexpensive product made with cheap materials, chances are your purchase will break quickly and easily. This will force you to buy new converters and spend money you could have saved if you had bought a more robust product in the first place. To avoid this potentiality always make sure that the frame is durable so your converter will last with repeated use.
Size
Since fountain pen converters come in a variety of shapes and sizes, you need to make sure that you get the correct size for your pen. If you get the wrong size, you won’t be able to fit it on your pen and it would be a waste. However, there are some items that have a universal size. Try getting that as it will fit on almost any type of pen. When in doubt, contact the manufacturer so you can be sure you are purchasing the right converter for your pen.
Tips for How to Make the Most Out of the Product
Once you have purchased a pen converter, you will want to handle them with care to ensure that they last for a long time. One of the best things that you can do is to keep them safely stored so they do not take on damage or get misplaced. Some converters can be fragile so be sure to take extra care when refilling them with ink.
You should also regularly clean the fountain pen and converter in order to maintain its functionality and to prevent build-up and blockages. Having a lot of leftover ink can eventually cause a leak or damage the mechanism. This will make it harder for you to use your converter without damaging it.
FAQs
What brand is the best for fountain pen converters?
We’ve discussed the best brand in the next section in detail but the KOFUN is often considered the absolute best. Their converters are specifically made for all types of pens and they have tons of durability thanks to its metal construction.
Are all converters the same?
No, all converters are not the same. Most of the products are made for specific brands or certain styles of pens such as European or Chinese fountain pens. While there are universal converters, they can be a bit pricey and harder to find.
Are all fountain pens refillable?
Yes, the beauty of fountain pens is that you can refill them and continue using them without any worries. Plus, if you use a converter, refilling your pen is an eco-friendly option that helps to reduce waste.
Best Fountain Pen Converter Brands
KOFUN
KOFUN is a great brand for fountain pen converters as they deliver high-quality materials that are long-lasting. On top of that, they also have a wide variety of products so you can choose the perfect accessories for your fountain pen setup.
Platinum
Platinum is a trusted brand that has been making pens for a long time. They have perfected the art of making great fountain pens that are durable and ideal for writing.
Conclusion
There you have it, our top picks for the best fountain pen converter that you can get your hands on right on. As you know, there are tons of options to choose from in the market but not all of them are worth it. Try one of the products on this list and you’ll be guaranteed satisfaction.
After scouring the internet and from personal experience, we’ve concluded that the ZenZoi Fountain Pen Ink Converter is our top pick for the best fountain pen converter. Not only is it affordable, but it is also quite durable which means that you won’t have to get a new one anytime soon.
However, if you do not like its design, we suggest taking a good look at the Schmidt Universal Fountain Pen Ink Converter as it is quite stylish and can fit most European fountain pens. The lack of support for Waterman and a few other brands is a bit disappointing but it is worth it if you have a pen that will take a universal converter. Thank you for reading and happy writing!
