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Key Takeaways
- Pentonic’s combination of fine and medium tips gives it a useful edge for journals that mix small handwriting with larger headings.
- WRITECH’s pastel set pairs gel pens with retractable highlighters, making it the most coordinated choice for color-coded spreads.
- Shuttle Art and Joyask both offer 0.6 mm fine points, which are better suited to compact writing than the 0.7 mm medium points in several other sets.
- The 160-piece Aen Art set prioritizes breadth for coloring and decoration; its size is excessive if your journal needs only a few dependable writing colors.
- Linbsunne’s 0.5 mm black retractable pens and Mr. Pen’s 12 assorted-color retractable pens suit distinct everyday needs: consistent notes versus quick color changes.
| CAISEXILE 12-Pack Purple Glitter Gel Pens |  | Best for Purple-Themed Journals | Brand: CAISEXILE | Quantity: 12 pens | Ink color: Purple | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| DIVERSEBEE Aesthetic Highlighters and Gel Pens, No Bleed (Dreams) |  | Best for Delicate Journal Pages | Highlighters: 4 | Gel pens: 4 | Colors: Assorted soft earthy shades | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Aen Art Gel Pens for Adult Coloring Books, 160-Piece Set |  | Best for Serious Color Variety | Total pieces: 160 pens and refills | Colors: 80 assorted colors | Refills: 80 matching refills | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| WRITECH Pastel Journaling Set with Retractable Highlighters and Dual-Color Gel Pens, 10 Pieces |  | Best for Planner Color-Coding | Brand: WRITECH | Set size: 10 pieces | Highlighters: 6 retractable highlighters | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| DUULEMANG 36-Color Gel Pen Set |  | Best Value for Decorative Variety | Brand: DUULEMANG | Count: 36 pens | Ink colors: Multicolor: glitter, neon glitter, and pastel | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Scentos Scented Gel Pens, 24-Pack, Neon Colors |  | Best for Playful Journaling | Quantity: 24 pens | Ink colors: Multicolor neon | Ink type: Water-based gel ink | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| FIOVER Colored Gel Pens, 6-Pack, 0.7 mm Medium Point |  | Best for Everyday Portability | Quantity: 6 pens | Tip size: 0.7 mm medium point | Design: Retractable | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Pentonic Gel Pens, 36 Assorted Colors, Fine and Medium Tips |  | Best Overall for Color Variety | Quantity: 36 pens | Color range: Classic, neon, pastel, and glitter | Tip sizes: 0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, and 1.0 mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Shuttle Art 30-Color Fine Point Gel Pens, 0.6 mm |  | Best for Dark-Paper Journals | Quantity: 30 pens | Ink colors: 30 colors | Tip size: 0.6 mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| WRITECH Vintage Journaling Set with Gel Pens and Retractable Highlighters, 10 Pieces |  | Best for Muted, All-in-One Layouts | Total pieces: 10 | Set contents: 6 retractable highlighters and 4 dual-color gel pens | Highlighter tip: Flexible chisel tip, 1–4 mm | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TANMIT 36-Color Gel Pen Set |  | Best for Color Variety | Pen count: 36 | Color types: 12 glitter, 10 metallic, 7 neon, 6 pastel, 1 classic | Ink amount: 40% more ink | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mr. Pen Retractable Gel Pens, 12-Pack, Assorted Colors, 0.7 mm Fine Point |  | Best for Low-Fuss Daily Journaling | Pack size: 12 pens | Ink color: Assorted colors | Point size: 0.7 mm fine point | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Joyask Gel Pens for Coloring, 36-Count Set, 0.6 mm Fine Point |  | Best for Detailed Lettering | Brand: Joyask | Pen type: Gel pen | Count: 36 pens | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Linbsunne Retractable Gel Pens, 0.5 mm, Black Ink, 12 Count |  | Best for Minimalist Journaling | Brand: Linbsunne | Quantity: 12 pens | Ink color: Black | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens, Assorted Colors, Medium Point (0.7 mm), 14 Count |  | Best for Color-Coded Entries | Brand: Paper Mate | Pen type: Gel | Point size: 0.7 mm medium | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| gel pen sets journaling | Tip size |
|---|---|
| CAISEXILE 12-Pack Purple Glitt | 1 mm |
| DIVERSEBEE Aesthetic Highlight | — |
| Aen Art Gel Pens for Adult Col | 0.8–1 mm |
| WRITECH Pastel Journaling Set | — |
| DUULEMANG 36-Color Gel Pen Set | 1.0 mm |
| Scentos Scented Gel Pens | 0.3 mm ultra-fine |
| FIOVER Colored Gel Pens | 0.7 mm medium point |
| Pentonic Gel Pens | — |
| Shuttle Art 30-Color Fine Poin | 0.6 mm |
| WRITECH Vintage Journaling Set | — |
| TANMIT 36-Color Gel Pen Set | 0.8–1.0 mm |
| Mr. Pen Retractable Gel Pens | — |
| Joyask Gel Pens for Coloring | 0.6 mm |
| Linbsunne Retractable Gel Pens | 0.5 mm |
| Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
CAISEXILE 12-Pack Purple Glitter Gel Pens
The 12 purple glitter pens make the most sense for journalers who want one coordinated color family for headings, borders, and decorative lettering. Their 1 mm points suit expressive writing and drawing, though they take up more space on a page than the finer 0.5 mm points on the WRITECH Pastel Journaling Set. Clear barrels let you check ink levels, and the set is described as using more ink than a typical gel pen. That may mean fewer interruptions, but the pens are not refillable, so they become disposable when empty. Unlike DUULEMANG’s mix of glitter, neon glitter, and pastel inks, this set stays entirely within purple shades. That focused palette is useful for a themed journal, but limiting if you need varied colors for everyday coding.
Pros:- Twelve purple glitter pens create a coordinated palette for headers and embellishments
- 1 mm points work for both writing and decorative drawing
- Transparent barrels make remaining ink visible
- Ink is described as odorless, acid-free, non-toxic, and non-bleed
Cons:- Only purple shades are included
- Pens are not refillable
- The 1 mm point can look broad in small planner spaces
Best for: Journalers who decorate with purple lettering and want several glitter shades in a consistent palette
Not ideal for: Planners who need multiple color families for color-coding or fine, compact handwriting
- Brand:CAISEXILE
- Quantity:12 pens
- Ink color:Purple
- Ink effect:Glitter
- Tip size:1 mm
- Ink base:Water
- Refillable:No
- Barrel:Transparent
Our verdict“Choose this set for purple-focused glitter accents; pick DUULEMANG for a broader mix of colors and ink effects.”
DIVERSEBEE Aesthetic Highlighters and Gel Pens, No Bleed (Dreams)
For readers who mark up thin journal or study pages, the four gel pens and four earthy-toned highlighters offer a compact way to write and highlight without assembling separate sets. The ink is designed to prevent bleed-through, which makes this a more page-conscious choice than DUULEMANG’s decorative glitter, neon glitter, and pastel assortment. The tradeoff is less information for judging fit: DIVERSEBEE does not list pen point or highlighter tip details, and the color names are unspecified. That makes it harder to predict how neatly the pens will handle small handwriting or how the shades will reproduce across a collection. WRITECH’s pastel set gives more guidance with its 0.5 mm pen points and chisel highlighters, while DIVERSEBEE favors portability and a softer, earthy palette.
Pros:- Combines four gel pens and four highlighters in one kit
- Designed to prevent bleed-through on delicate pages
- Compact format suits carrying between home, school, or study
- Soft earthy shades fit subdued journal layouts
Cons:- Specific color names are not provided
- Pen and highlighter tip details are not specified
- The set has fewer gel pens than dedicated multi-color pen collections
Best for: Bible study readers and journalers who use delicate paper and want writing and highlighting tools in one compact kit
Not ideal for: Buyers who need named colors or precise tip sizes to plan fine handwriting and consistent color-coding
- Highlighters:4
- Gel pens:4
- Colors:Assorted soft earthy shades
- Bleed-through:Designed to prevent bleed-through
- Uses:Bible study, journaling, note-taking, planning, school, and office
- Format:Compact and portable
Our verdict“Pick DIVERSEBEE for portable writing and highlighting on delicate pages, provided you can work without listed tip details.”
Aen Art Gel Pens for Adult Coloring Books, 160-Piece Set
The Aen Art set is the lineup’s most expansive choice for journalers who also fill pages with intricate coloring: 80 assorted colors are paired with 80 matching refills, so the range can stay in rotation after the original pens run dry. A carrying case with individual inserts helps keep that large collection sorted, and the 0.8–1 mm tips cover writing and broader decorative work. Compared with DUULEMANG’s 36 pens, Aen Art offers far more color choices and refills, but its larger 160-piece set takes more storage space and may be excessive for a journal used mainly for notes. Five practice sheets are included for coloring, though the description does not say how many pens come in each finish. Choose it for variety and longer-term supply, not a minimal everyday carry.
Pros:- Eighty assorted colors support detailed layouts and coloring
- Includes 80 matching refills
- Individual case inserts help organize the large set
- Soft grips and 0.8–1 mm tips support extended writing and drawing
Cons:- The 160-piece set requires more storage than smaller journaling kits
- The number of pens in each color finish is not specified
- The broad assortment may be more than note-focused journalers need
Best for: Coloring-focused journalers who want a broad palette, matching refills, and organized storage
Not ideal for: Minimalist journalers or commuters who want a small, lightweight selection for everyday notes
- Total pieces:160 pens and refills
- Colors:80 assorted colors
- Refills:80 matching refills
- Tip size:0.8–1 mm
- Included accessories:Carrying case and 5 coloring sheets
- Ink:Described as containing 40% more ink than unspecified alternatives
- Safety:Non-toxic and acid-free
- Grip:Soft grips
Our verdict“Choose Aen Art when color range and refills matter more than a compact set for daily journaling.”
WRITECH Pastel Journaling Set with Retractable Highlighters and Dual-Color Gel Pens, 10 Pieces
WRITECH puts everyday organization ahead of a large pen palette: six retractable highlighters handle marking, while four dual-color gel pens add writing options without requiring a separate set of single-color pens. The 0.5 mm fine points suit small planner entries better than the 1 mm CAISEXILE glitter pens, and quick-drying ink is described as smudge-resistant. Flexible 1–4 mm chisel tips let the highlighters shift between narrow underlines and broader marks. Its main limitation is the pastel palette, which may not stand out as much as bright or glitter inks, and the set has only four gel pens. Compared with DIVERSEBEE, WRITECH specifies tip sizes and retractable highlighters, giving buyers a clearer sense of how it will fit a structured planner routine.
Pros:- Four dual-color gel pens provide multiple writing colors
- 0.5 mm points suit small planner entries
- Retractable highlighters avoid separate caps
- Flexible chisel tips support both fine underlines and broad highlighting
Cons:- Pastel shades may be less visible than brighter inks
- Only four gel pens are included
- The set mixes writing and highlighting tools rather than offering a broad pen-only palette
Best for: Planner users who want compact handwriting, several highlighting widths, and dual-color pens for routine color-coding
Not ideal for: Journalers who prefer vivid ink, a large range of gel pen colors, or glitter effects
- Brand:WRITECH
- Set size:10 pieces
- Highlighters:6 retractable highlighters
- Highlighter tip:Flexible chisel tip, 1–4 mm
- Gel pens:4 dual-color gel pens
- Pen point:0.5 mm fine point
- Colors:Pastel
- Ink:Quick-drying and described as smudge-resistant
Our verdict“Choose WRITECH for neat planner entries and convenient highlighting, especially if pastel colors suit your pages.”
DUULEMANG 36-Color Gel Pen Set
DUULEMANG balances a substantial palette with a manageable set size: 36 pens span glitter, neon glitter, and pastel inks, giving journalers distinct ways to separate headers, notes, and decorative details. Its 1.0 mm fine tips are suited to expressive writing and coloring, though they will look broader than WRITECH’s 0.5 mm points in a crowded planner. A portable case with individual slots helps keep the assortment orderly, and the ink is described as smooth-writing, non-toxic, and designed not to bleed. Unlike Aen Art’s 80-color collection with matching refills, this set is smaller and the product data does not specify refill availability. That makes it easier to store, but leaves less range and less clarity about replacing empty pens. It fits journalers who want variety without a very large collection.
Pros:- Thirty-six pens cover glitter, neon glitter, and pastel styles
- 1.0 mm fine tips work for writing, drawing, and coloring
- Individual case slots help keep colors organized
- Ink is described as smooth-writing, non-toxic, and designed not to bleed
Cons:- Refill availability is not specified
- The 1.0 mm point may feel broad for small handwriting
- Durability details are not provided
Best for: Journalers who want several decorative ink effects in a moderate-size, organized set
Not ideal for: Writers who need very fine points for dense planner pages or confirmed refill options
- Brand:DUULEMANG
- Count:36 pens
- Ink colors:Multicolor: glitter, neon glitter, and pastel
- Tip size:1.0 mm
- Tip type:Fine
- Additional features:Designed not to bleed; non-toxic
- Packaging:Portable case with individual slots
Our verdict“Choose DUULEMANG for a varied decorative palette in a portable case; choose Aen Art if you need more colors and included refills.”
Scentos Scented Gel Pens, 24-Pack, Neon Colors
Bright neon color and fruity scents give this set a playful character that separates it from the more subdued WRITECH Vintage Journaling Set. Its 24 pens offer plenty of options for decorating headings, doodles, and journal margins, while the 0.3 mm tips suit fine lettering and small details. The water-based gel ink is described for use on paper, notebooks, and journals, so it fits colorful everyday pages. The narrow points are less suited to filling large areas than broader-tip sets, and the scents may distract readers who prefer an unscented writing session. I’d choose Scentos for a lighthearted, sensory journaling kit, not for a restrained or purely functional setup.
Pros:- 24 neon colors provide plenty of choices for accents and small illustrations
- 0.3 mm tips are suited to detailed writing and drawing
- Fruity scents add a playful sensory element
- Includes a plastic carrying case
Cons:- Ultra-fine tips are slower for filling larger areas
- Fruity scents may bother people who prefer unscented stationery
Best for: Young journalers and creative writers who want fine lines, neon accents, and scented pens in one set
Not ideal for: Journalers who prefer unscented supplies or need broad tips for coloring large sections
- Quantity:24 pens
- Ink colors:Multicolor neon
- Ink type:Water-based gel ink
- Tip size:0.3 mm ultra-fine
- Scent:Fruity
- Pen style:Roller ball
- Closure:Snap
- Included case:Plastic carrying case
Our verdict“Choose Scentos for fine, colorful journal details with a playful scented twist.”
FIOVER Colored Gel Pens, 6-Pack, 0.7 mm Medium Point
Retractable design and fast-drying ink make this six-pen set a practical choice for journalers who carry a small kit and write on the go. Its 0.7 mm medium points favor comfortable, readable notes over the fine detail of the Scentos 0.3 mm pens. Comfortable grips support longer writing sessions, and sturdy clips help keep the pens close at hand. Compared with the 36-color Pentonic set, FIOVER is far easier to pack but gives up color range; the description also doesn’t identify the specific ink colors, making palette planning difficult. Pick it for everyday notes and a compact routine, rather than pages that depend on many distinct shades.
Pros:- Retractable design avoids loose caps
- Fast-drying ink helps reduce smudging
- Comfortable grips suit extended writing
- Sturdy clips make pens convenient to carry
Cons:- Six pens offer less color variety than larger sets such as Pentonic
- Specific ink colors are not listed in the supplied product data
Best for: Commuters and students who want a small set of retractable colored pens for everyday journal notes
Not ideal for: Color-coding enthusiasts who need a large, clearly specified palette for elaborate spreads
- Quantity:6 pens
- Tip size:0.7 mm medium point
- Design:Retractable
- Ink:Fast-drying colored gel ink
- Grip:Comfortable grip
- Clip:Sturdy pen clip
Our verdict“Pick FIOVER for a portable everyday writing kit when a small, unspecified palette is enough.”
Pentonic Gel Pens, 36 Assorted Colors, Fine and Medium Tips
Thirty-six colors across classic, neon, pastel, and glitter finishes make Pentonic the most flexible choice here for journalers who switch styles from page to page. Three tip sizes—0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, and 1.0 mm—also let one set handle fine notes, everyday writing, and bolder accents. That range gives it broader page-making flexibility than the single-size Shuttle Art 30-color set, though Shuttle Art includes color charts and patterns that can help organize a creative session. Pentonic’s low-viscosity, quick-drying ink is described as flowing smoothly on most paper, but the supplied details don’t specify which colors or how many pens use each tip or finish. It makes the strongest all-purpose pick when breadth matters more than a tightly documented assortment.
Pros:- 36 assorted colors span classic, neon, pastel, and glitter styles
- Three tip sizes support fine notes through bolder writing
- Quick-drying ink helps keep journal pages tidy
- Smooth, consistent flow is described for most types of paper
Cons:- The supplied details do not give a color-by-color inventory
- The number of pens assigned to each tip size or finish is unspecified
Best for: Journalers who want a broad mix of color families and line widths for varied page layouts
Not ideal for: Buyers who need a documented color-by-color breakdown or a uniform tip size across the set
- Quantity:36 pens
- Color range:Classic, neon, pastel, and glitter
- Tip sizes:0.6 mm, 0.7 mm, and 1.0 mm
- Ink:Low-viscosity, quick-drying gel ink
- Barrel:Matte black
- Pen tip material:Nickel silver
Our verdict“Choose Pentonic for the widest stated mix of colors and line widths in a single journaling set.”
Shuttle Art 30-Color Fine Point Gel Pens, 0.6 mm
Designed for both light and dark paper, this 30-color set is a good fit for journalers who vary their page stock and want color options suited to either. The 0.6 mm fine points keep handwriting and small decorations relatively controlled, while color-coded, labeled barrels make it easier to find the shade you want. Pentonic offers more pens and multiple tip sizes, so it has the advantage for people who want varied line weights; Shuttle Art’s more focused format adds useful planning aids instead, with two color charts and two coloring patterns. The ink is water-based and not water resistant, a limitation for pages that may get wet. Choose this set for organized color work across light and dark paper, rather than water-exposed layouts.
Pros:- 30 colors provide a broad palette for journal coding and decoration
- Designed for use on both light and dark paper
- Labeled, color-coded barrels help identify shades
- Includes two color charts and two coloring patterns
Cons:- Water-based ink is not water resistant
- Only one stated tip size, unlike Pentonic’s three-size assortment
Best for: Journalers who write on both light and dark paper and want labeled colors plus planning sheets
Not ideal for: People who need water-resistant ink or want several line widths in one set
- Quantity:30 pens
- Ink colors:30 colors
- Tip size:0.6 mm
- Point type:Fine
- Ink base:Water
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
- Paper compatibility:Light and dark paper
- Included accessories:2 color charts and 2 coloring patterns
Our verdict“Pick Shuttle Art for organized fine-point color on light or dark pages, provided water resistance is not needed.”
WRITECH Vintage Journaling Set with Gel Pens and Retractable Highlighters, 10 Pieces
Six retractable highlighters plus four dual-color gel pens make this a page-layout kit rather than a large standalone pen collection. The muted vintage palette supports coordinated headings, highlights, and notes, while the flexible 1–4 mm chisel tips can handle narrow underlining or broader emphasis. Compared with the colorful Pentonic 36-pack, WRITECH trades sheer color range for tools that cover more journaling tasks in one compact assortment. Its four gel pens mean fewer writing options, and the subdued tones may not show the contrast some readers want for lively spreads. Quick-drying gel ink is described as smudge-resistant, which can help keep layered notes neat. This set suits readers who want a unified, restrained look with highlighting built in.
Pros:- Combines highlighters and dual-color gel pens in one set
- Retractable highlighters do not require separate caps
- Flexible chisel tips support fine underlining and broad highlighting
- Quick-drying gel ink is described as smudge-resistant
Cons:- Muted colors may lack contrast for readers who prefer bright palettes
- Only four gel pens are included, limiting standalone pen variety
Best for: Journalers who prefer muted, coordinated pages and want highlighting and writing tools together
Not ideal for: Writers who need many distinct pen colors or prefer vivid neon and glitter accents
- Total pieces:10
- Set contents:6 retractable highlighters and 4 dual-color gel pens
- Highlighter tip:Flexible chisel tip, 1–4 mm
- Gel pen tip:0.5 mm fine point
- Ink colors:Multicolor
- Palette:Vintage muted colors
- Gel pen ink:Quick-drying gel ink
- Highlighter features:Retractable; sealed structure helps reduce drying and leaking
Our verdict“Choose WRITECH for a coordinated muted journaling kit that combines writing and highlighting.”
TANMIT 36-Color Gel Pen Set
For journalers who like switching between decorative effects and color families, TANMIT’s 36 pens cover glitter, metallic, neon, pastel, and classic ink in one set. That variety gives it a broader palette than the Mr. Pen 12-pack, which focuses on retractable everyday writing pens rather than multiple finishes. The 0.8–1.0 mm tips suit headings, accents, and coloring, though they may feel less precise for tiny handwriting than Joyask’s 0.6 mm points. A stated 40% extra ink may mean fewer interruptions when filling larger areas, but the set’s appeal depends on getting usable pens: some may arrive damaged or inoperable. I’d choose it for expressive, color-heavy pages, not for a dependable uniform set of fine writing tools.
Pros:- Five ink finish and color categories give journal pages varied effects
- 36 pens provide a broad palette for color coding and decoration
- 0.8–1.0 mm tips work for visible lettering and coloring
- Soft grips and acid-free, non-toxic ink support longer creative sessions
Cons:- Some pens may arrive damaged or inoperable
- The 0.8–1.0 mm points can be broad for small journal handwriting
- The set’s many finishes may be less useful for buyers who mainly want everyday writing colors
Best for: Journalers who decorate pages with varied finishes and use color for headings, borders, and larger accents
Not ideal for: Writers who need consistent fine lines for compact daily notes or want a set with no reported risk of damaged pens
- Pen count:36
- Color types:12 glitter, 10 metallic, 7 neon, 6 pastel, 1 classic
- Ink amount:40% more ink
- Tip size:0.8–1.0 mm
- Ink:Acid-free and non-toxic
- Safety standard:Conforms to ASTM D-4236
Our verdict“Choose TANMIT if you want a large mix of decorative ink finishes for journaling, and skip it if fine, dependable note-taking is your priority.”
Mr. Pen Retractable Gel Pens, 12-Pack, Assorted Colors, 0.7 mm Fine Point
Retractable 0.7 mm points make this set a practical choice for journalers who write regularly and want color without caps to manage. Its quick-drying ink is aimed at reducing smears during note-taking, while the snap closure makes each pen easy to use between entries. Compared with Linbsunne’s 12 black pens, Mr. Pen offers assorted colors for simple color coding; compared with TANMIT’s 36 finishes, it keeps the choice narrower and more focused on writing. The description does not identify the individual ink colors, so it is harder to plan a precise palette. Refill details are also absent, which may matter to people who keep a favorite pen in rotation. I’d favor it for mixed-color notes over elaborate decorative spreads.
Pros:- Retractable snap closure avoids loose caps during quick entries
- Quick-drying ink is designed to resist smearing
- 0.7 mm fine point suits writing and smaller details
- Smooth grip supports extended writing
Cons:- Individual ink colors are not specified
- No refill information is provided
- A 12-pen assortment offers less color and finish variety than TANMIT’s 36-pen set
Best for: Daily journalers who want a compact set of assorted retractable pens for notes, lists, and basic color coding
Not ideal for: Palette planners who need named ink colors, or journalers seeking multiple decorative finishes and documented refill options
- Pack size:12 pens
- Ink color:Assorted colors
- Point size:0.7 mm fine point
- Ink type:Water-based gel ink
- Closure:Snap
- Grip:Smooth
- Body material:Plastic
- Additional features:Quick-drying, no bleed
Our verdict“Pick Mr. Pen for convenient, colorful everyday entries, but choose a more clearly specified palette if matching colors matters to your journal system.”
Joyask Gel Pens for Coloring, 36-Count Set, 0.6 mm Fine Point
At 0.6 mm, Joyask’s fine points are the most detail-oriented fit here for small labels, neat lettering, and tight spaces in a journal. The opaque acrylic gel ink is described as working on both light and dark paper, offering a different creative angle from the primarily finish-based variety in TANMIT’s 36-color set. Transparent barrels make it easier to check the visible ink color and remaining level, which can help when selecting a pen mid-page. There is a mismatch in the description: it cites both 18 and 36 colors, so I would not assume the exact palette makeup. The ink is also not water resistant, limiting its suitability for pages that may get wet. This set favors precision and opacity over clearly documented color organization.
Pros:- 0.6 mm tips suit small writing and detailed accents
- Opaque acrylic gel ink is described for light or dark paper
- Transparent barrels show visible ink colors and levels
- 36 pens provide a substantial multicolor selection
Cons:- The description gives conflicting color counts of 18 and 36
- Ink is not water resistant
- Plastic barrels may feel less substantial than a more specialized journaling pen
Best for: Journalers who add small lettering or detailed drawings on light and dark paper and prefer a fine point
Not ideal for: Buyers who need a clearly specified color count or archival marks that resist water
- Brand:Joyask
- Pen type:Gel pen
- Count:36 pens
- Ink colors:Multicolor; description also cites 18 colors
- Tip size:0.6 mm
- Ink type:Water-based acrylic gel
- Barrel material:Plastic
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
- Recommended age:16 and above
Our verdict“Choose Joyask for fine, opaque details across light and dark pages, provided the conflicting color-count information does not affect your buying decision.”
Linbsunne Retractable Gel Pens, 0.5 mm, Black Ink, 12 Count
Linbsunne is the focused pick for journalers who want fine black lines for compact daily entries, trackers, and legible labels rather than colorful decoration. Its 0.5 mm point is narrower than the 0.7 mm points in Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens, making it a better match for tight spaces, while Paper Mate’s assorted colors suit pages that rely on color coding. A retractable body and quiet click support quick use in shared or quiet settings, and the soft non-slip grip is designed for comfortable writing. The tradeoff is straightforward: this is a black-only set, so it cannot provide the visual variety of Mr. Pen’s assorted colors or TANMIT’s decorative finishes. Buyers who like broader, more expressive strokes may also find the fine point too narrow.
Pros:- 0.5 mm point fits compact notes and small labels
- Black ink supports a consistent, restrained page style
- Retractable design and quiet click suit quick entries
- Soft, non-slip grip is designed for comfortable writing
Cons:- Black is the only listed ink color
- The fine 0.5 mm point may feel too narrow for broader handwriting
- It offers less decorative flexibility than Paper Mate InkJoy’s assorted colors
Best for: Minimalist journalers who write small, prefer black ink, and want a quiet retractable pen for frequent entries
Not ideal for: Color-coding journalers or writers who prefer medium points and broader strokes
- Brand:Linbsunne
- Quantity:12 pens
- Ink color:Black
- Ink type:Water-based gel
- Tip size:0.5 mm
- Pen type:Retractable rollerball
- Grip:Soft, non-slip
- Body material:Plastic
Our verdict“Pick Linbsunne for quiet, compact black-ink journaling, and look to an assorted set if color is part of how you organize pages.”
Paper Mate InkJoy Gel Pens, Assorted Colors, Medium Point (0.7 mm), 14 Count
Fourteen assorted colors give Paper Mate InkJoy a useful middle ground for journalers who want more color choices than Mr. Pen’s 12-pack but do not need a 36-pen collection. The 0.7 mm medium point favors smooth, visible writing for headings and color-coded entries; it is less suited to tiny notes than Linbsunne’s 0.5 mm black pens. Fast-drying ink is intended to reduce smearing, while the comfort grip supports longer writing sessions. The supplied details do not list the actual colors or specify ink composition, so buyers who need a defined palette or particular paper compatibility have less to go on. This is a writing-centered assortment rather than a set built around glitter, metallic, or other specialty effects.
Pros:- 14 assorted colors provide variety without a 36-pen set
- 0.7 mm medium points create visible, smooth writing
- Fast-drying ink is designed to reduce smearing
- Comfort grip supports longer writing sessions
Cons:- Individual ink colors are not specified
- Medium points take more page space than Linbsunne’s 0.5 mm tips
- No specialty finishes or ink composition details are listed
Best for: Journalers who want a moderate range of vibrant colors for headings, trackers, and color-coded notes
Not ideal for: Writers who need very fine lines, a named color palette, or decorative ink finishes
- Brand:Paper Mate
- Pen type:Gel
- Point size:0.7 mm medium
- Count:14
- Ink colors:Assorted
- Ink feature:Fast-drying
- Grip:Ergonomic comfort grip
Our verdict“Choose InkJoy for a manageable assortment of colorful, visible journal writing, and skip it if your pages need fine lines or specialty effects.”
How We Picked
I compared these sets for the parts of journaling that affect daily use: tip size for handwriting, range and usefulness of colors, retractable versus capped designs, and whether the set includes tools that support planning or decoration. A large count alone did not earn a higher place; a set needed to make its variety practical for journal pages. I also weighed how clearly each product’s format suits a particular writing style, from compact notes to expressive color work.
The ranking favors versatility for regular journaling, followed by specialized strengths that make a set a stronger match for a particular buyer. Pentonic leads because its fine and medium tips cover more writing tasks in one assortment. WRITECH’s pastel combination and Shuttle Art’s fine-point format follow for distinct journaling styles, while large coloring-focused collections rank lower for everyday writing because their scale may be more than a journaler needs. Compact black-ink and smaller color sets earn a place for portability and focused use, even with fewer colors.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Gel Pen Sets Journaling
A gel pen set can look appealing on color count alone, but the better choice depends on how you write and what your journal pages need. These broader checks can help you avoid a set that looks useful in the box but feels awkward in your routine.Match tip size to your handwriting
Tip size changes how much space each line takes up, so think about your usual letter size before choosing a set. Fine points around 0.5–0.6 mm can help keep small planners and narrow ruled pages legible. Medium points around 0.7 mm make bolder strokes, which can work better for larger handwriting, labels, and headings. A mixed-tip set is useful if one journal includes both dense notes and decorative titles. A common mistake is choosing the finest point available without checking whether the resulting writing style feels comfortable for long entries. Let your page layout and normal writing size guide the choice.Choose a color range you will use
A broad palette helps when you assign colors to topics, moods, or recurring sections, but more shades do not automatically make a set more useful. Before buying, think about whether you want a few regular colors or enough variation to create gradients and detailed illustrations. Coordinated pastel palettes can make calmer page designs easier, while neon and glitter options serve a more conspicuous decorative style. Large assortments can be harder to store and may leave you searching for a small number of favorite shades. If you mostly write in one color, a smaller set with a clear purpose can be easier to manage. Prioritize shades that fit your actual page habits.Check the full page, not just the pen
A pen that feels right on one sheet may behave differently on thin notebook paper. Ink show-through and bleed depend on the paper as well as the pen, so a no-bleed claim should not replace checking your own journal stock. If you write on both sides of a page, test a pen in a back corner before filling a spread. Highlighters and gel ink used together may also need time to dry before you close the notebook or drag a hand across the page. Buying a large set before checking paper compatibility can leave many colors unsuitable for your journal. Start with the paper you use most often.Decide whether retractable pens fit your routine
Retractable pens remove the separate cap and make it quicker to switch between writing and planning. That can be helpful when you jot brief entries throughout the day or carry a compact pencil case. Capped pens may be preferable if you value a simpler format or are comfortable putting the cap back after each use. Consider how often pens are left uncapped on your desk and whether you need a set that stays organized while moving between places. A retractable design also does not replace basic care: store pens securely and follow the product’s guidance. Choose around your actual routine, not just the convenience of a click.Pay for useful variety, not just quantity
A larger collection makes more sense when you will use the pens for coloring, elaborate spreads, or several types of projects. For everyday notes, the extra pieces can add storage and selection time without changing how often you reach for the set. Bundles that pair pens with highlighters can be more useful than a higher pen count if you already use color coding in your journal. Beginners may find a manageable set easier to learn and maintain than a box full of specialty colors. Compare what is included with the jobs you want the set to do. The right scale is the one you can keep organized and use regularly.Frequently Asked Questions
Which type of set is best if I write small and use a compact planner?
Look for a fine point around 0.5–0.6 mm, since it can fit smaller writing more comfortably than a medium point. Shuttle Art and Joyask both list 0.6 mm tips, while Linbsunne’s 0.5 mm set is limited to black ink. If you need several colors, a fine-point assortment is a more direct fit than a large collection designed mainly for coloring. Check the paper ruling too: a narrow point may still feel cramped if your planner has very little writing space. Test one line on a sample page before committing to a full spread.Will gel pens work on both sides of my journal paper?
That depends on the paper’s thickness and finish as well as the ink, so a product description cannot promise the same result in every notebook. If both sides matter, try the pen on a less visible page and check for show-through after the ink dries. A no-bleed label can be a useful clue, but it does not tell you how every journal stock will behave. Leave extra drying time before writing on the reverse or closing the notebook. If marks show through, reserve that pen for headings, single-sided layouts, or thicker paper.Should I choose a large set or a smaller set for journaling?
Choose a large assortment if color coding, illustrations, or frequent palette changes are part of your journaling routine. A smaller set is easier to carry, store, and return to quickly, which can suit short daily entries better. This comparison shows the tradeoff clearly: Aen Art’s 160-piece collection emphasizes broad creative choice, while the 12-pen options keep the selection more focused. Think about how many colors you use in a typical week rather than the maximum number you might use once. That estimate can prevent unused pens from crowding your workspace.Are gel pen and highlighter bundles useful for planning?
They can be, especially if you mark dates or tasks with highlighters and use pens for notes on the same spread. WRITECH’s pastel and vintage sets combine those tools, giving them a different role from pen-only color assortments. Before choosing a bundle, consider whether you already own highlighters and whether the included palette fits your system. Coordinated colors can make pages easier to scan, but extra tools are less useful if they duplicate supplies you rarely reach for. The bundle makes most sense when both parts have a regular job in your journal.Which set makes the most sense for a beginner?
A beginner can benefit from a manageable assortment that covers common writing and decorating tasks without requiring a complicated color system. The Pentonic set’s fine and medium tips offer flexibility, while WRITECH’s pastel bundle gives a ready-made pairing of pens and highlighters. Pick based on whether your first priority is varied writing strokes or coordinated planning tools. A very large coloring collection may be fun, but can make it harder to settle on a simple everyday routine. Starting with a clear purpose helps you learn which colors and tip sizes you actually prefer.Conclusion
For most journalers, I recommend Pentonic’s 36-color set as the best overall choice because its fine and medium tips cover both compact notes and bolder headings. For coordinated planning, WRITECH’s pastel set is the better fit; for fine-point color work, choose Shuttle Art. Aen Art’s 160-piece set is the premium pick for buyers who want an expansive collection for coloring and decoration, while FIOVER’s six-pack is a simpler value-minded choice for anyone who wants a small color set. Beginners can start with Pentonic for tip flexibility or WRITECH if highlighters are part of their routine. For specific needs, choose Linbsunne for black-ink notes, Mr. Pen for assorted retractable colors, or Scentos for scented neon writing. Match the set to your page size, paper, and habits, and the right choice becomes much clearer.
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