After owning a PhD Mechanical Pencil for years, I decided that I wanted to add the PhD Retractable Ballpoint Pen to my collection. The two are designed the same, so I knew I would at least like the feel of writing with this pen.

The PhD’s Stylish Appearance

I decided to stay simple, and bought the black pen, since it would match my pencil. However, there is quite an array of colors to choose from. Although they aren’t necessarily considered part of the original PhD series, there are also pastel versions!

Writing with the PhD

This pen has a particularly large barrel, at least compared to most pens. The lower portion has a rubber grip, which becomes triangular toward the point.

OfficeMax’s website talks about how this pen reduces the amount of gripping pressure and how it reduces strain. Instead of 46% contact with a round grip, there’s 67% contact with the PhD. Sounds good to me!

Unlike my PhD Mechanical Pencil, I am much more apt to use pens. In this age of computers, I don’t even use pens that much, but when I do, this is among my favorites because of its comfort. This pen (like the pencil!) is actually endorsed by the American Physical Therapy Association.

The package says something about a Lubriglide® ink system, which is supposed to ensure a smooth writing experience. I can’t say that I don’t need to scribble on a piece of paper before putting my signature on a letter, but otherwise this is a nice quality pen.

Like I mentioned in my review for the pencil, I really wish I had had these back when I was taking written essay tests in college. I seriously believe I could have improved my efficiency and comfort in completing those exams. I doubt I would have had anywhere as many hand cramps!

Refills

The PhD Retractable Ballpoint Pen does have refills, available in different colors.

Dislikes?

There’s really nothing to dislike about this pen. It’s very comfortable, very stylish, and writes nicely. No flaws!!

As I mentioned with my pencil, the PhD® logo wore off, and although it hasn’t happened with the pen yet, I’m anticipating that it’s probably just a matter of time. I would like it if the logo doesn’t wear off, but it’s not a huge deal.

There’s also the tendency for the rubber to be a dirt magnet, but just brush it clean.

Price & Where to Find

The PhD pen is the same price as the mechanical pencil, and at around $6, the price seems much more common among pens (over pencils). I am more likely to spend more on pens than pencils, just because I use them more. Because of the rate I tend to lose pens, I only buy ones this expensive when I have a coupon or offer. There are lots of coupon codes out there on the internet (which can be easily found with a search) that might help to provide an incentive for purchasing the PhD.

Websites

Papermate: http://www.papermate.com

My review of the PhD Mechanical Pencil: http://www.epinions.com/content_93861023364

Overall

Both the PhD pen and pencil are great writing implements. They are fun and comfortable to write with, and I get lots of compliments on them. I also gave one as a gift, and it was very well received. I see that there’s a gift set that contains both a pen and pencil, and I think it makes for a great gift idea. The PhD series is in that middle sort of price range, where they are somewhat expensive, but not outrageous, and a good value.




Recommended: Yes

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