Fountain Pen Nib Sizes Explained

Introduction

If you’ve ever shopped for a fountain pen, you’ve probably noticed the confusing part — nib sizes. Extra Fine, Fine, Medium, Broad… sometimes even Double Broad or Stub. At first, I thought these were just fancy names, but once I started writing with different nibs, I realized they completely change how a pen feels on the page.

Choosing the right nib size can make the difference between cramped, scratchy writing and smooth, expressive strokes. Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a Nib Size?

The nib is the metal tip of your fountain pen, and the size refers to how wide the line will look when it touches paper. Unlike ballpoints or rollerballs, fountain pens give you options: thin, precise lines or wide, bold strokes. The size you choose affects not just the look of your writing, but also how it feels under your hand.

Common Nib Sizes and How They Feel

• Extra Fine (EF)
  This nib makes the thinnest line. It’s perfect for people with small handwriting, or if you’re writing in tiny notebooks where space matters. It can feel a little scratchy on rough paper, but it’s great for detail work.

• Fine (F)
  Slightly wider than Extra Fine, but still neat and precise. A good balance for everyday writing, especially if you want clean lines without too much ink soaking through the page.

• Medium (M)
  The most popular size. Smooth, comfortable, and versatile — it works well for most handwriting styles. If you’re new to fountain pens and don’t know where to start, Medium is a safe choice. Our Carousel Fountain Pen Collection is a good place to start.

• Broad (B)
  Bold and expressive. Broad nibs put more ink on the page, which makes your writing look darker and more dramatic. Great for signatures or if you like your writing to stand out.

• Stub or Italic
  These nibs have a flat edge instead of a rounded tip, which creates thick downstrokes and thin sidestrokes — perfect for calligraphy-style writing. They take practice, but the results are beautiful.

How Nib Size Affects Writing

Nib size isn’t just about line width; it changes your whole writing experience.

• A finer nib gives you precision but can feel scratchy on rough paper.

• A broader nib glides more smoothly, but it uses more ink and takes longer to dry.

• On thin paper, finer nibs prevent bleed-through, while broader nibs shine on high-quality paper.

It’s not just practical — it’s personal. The right nib size often comes down to your handwriting style, the paper you use, and even how much character you want in your writing.

Choosing the Right Nib Size

So, how do you know which one is right for you? Think about these questions:

• Do you write small and tidy? Try Extra Fine or Fine.

• Do you write larger or want smoother ink flow? Medium or Broad will feel better.

• Do you enjoy decorative writing or want to add flair to notes? A Stub or Italic nib can make even simple words look artistic.

Many people eventually collect multiple pens with different nib sizes. That way, they can switch depending on whether they’re journaling, signing something important, or practicing calligraphy.

FAQs

Is Medium always the best nib size?
Not always, but it’s the most versatile and beginner-friendly option.

Can I change nib sizes on the same pen?
With some pens, yes — you can swap nibs without buying a whole new pen. Our Joule and Marquise Fountain Pen Collections features a swappable nib housing that works with our Adventurers Nib Collection, allowing you to switch styles as you please.

Which nib is best for left-handed writers?
Fine and Medium nibs usually work well, but it also depends on your writing angle. Some brands even make nibs specifically for left-handers.

Do broader nibs use more ink?
Yes, they put a little more ink on the page, which can look richer but also dries slower.