Choosing the right nib width is one of the most important decisions when buying a fountain pen. The nib width affects how the pen feels to write with, how much ink it lays down, and how well it suits your handwriting style. This guide explains everything you need to know.
How Nib Widths Work
Fountain pen nibs are graded by width, typically using abbreviations: EF (Extra Fine), F (Fine), M (Medium), B (Broad), and sometimes BB (Double Broad) or stubs. The width refers to the size of the tipping material at the nib tip, which determines the line width produced on paper.
One important thing to note: nib widths are not standardised across brands. A Medium from a Japanese brand like Pilot will write significantly finer than a Medium from a German brand like Pelikan or LAMY. Japanese nibs tend to run one to two sizes finer than their European equivalents.
The Main Nib Widths Explained
Extra Fine (EF)
Extra Fine nibs produce the thinnest line and are ideal for small, precise handwriting or writing on thin paper where a broader nib might bleed through. They require good quality, well-flowing ink as the narrow channel can be prone to dryness. EF nibs are particularly popular with writers who have small handwriting or who use fountain pens for detailed note-taking.
Best for: small handwriting, thin paper, precise writing, technical notes.
Fine (F)
Fine nibs are the most popular choice for everyday writing. They produce a clean, controlled line that suits most handwriting styles and works well on a wide range of papers. If you are new to fountain pens and unsure which width to choose, Fine is a safe and versatile starting point.
Best for: everyday writing, most handwriting sizes, general use.
Medium (M)
Medium nibs lay down more ink and produce a more expressive line. They are particularly satisfying to write with on good quality paper, where the ink has room to show off its shading and sheen. Medium nibs are a popular choice among enthusiasts who enjoy the feel of a wetter, more generous ink flow.
Best for: larger handwriting, quality paper, ink enthusiasts who want to see shading and sheen.
Broad (B)
Broad nibs produce a bold, expressive line and are best suited to larger handwriting or decorative writing. They lay down a lot of ink and really show off the character of a good ink. Broad nibs are less practical for everyday note-taking but are wonderful for journalling, correspondence, or simply enjoying the writing experience.
Best for: large handwriting, journalling, correspondence, showing off ink properties.
Stub Nibs
Stub nibs have a flat, rectangular tip rather than a round one. This produces a line that varies in width depending on the direction of the stroke, creating a calligraphic effect. Stubs are popular among writers who want to add character to their handwriting without learning formal calligraphy. The LAMY Safari is available with a 1.1mm stub nib, which is a great introduction to this style.
Best for: adding character to handwriting, journalling, correspondence.
Flexible Nibs
Flexible nibs allow the tines to spread under pressure, creating a line that varies from fine to broad depending on how hard you press. True vintage flex nibs are highly sought after, but modern flex nib pens offer a taste of this style at accessible prices. Flex nibs require practice and a good ink flow to use well.
Best for: expressive writing, calligraphy-inspired styles, experienced writers.
Japanese vs European Nib Sizing
As a general rule:
- Japanese Fine (F) is roughly equivalent to European Extra Fine (EF)
- Japanese Medium (M) is roughly equivalent to European Fine (F)
- Japanese Broad (B) is roughly equivalent to European Medium (M)
This matters when comparing pens across brands. If you write with a European Fine and find it too broad, try a Japanese Fine or Extra Fine.
Which Nib Width Should You Choose?
- Small handwriting: EF or F
- Average handwriting: F or M
- Large handwriting: M or B
- Thin or cheap paper: EF or F to reduce bleed-through
- Quality paper and ink enjoyment: M or B
- First fountain pen: F (European) or M (Japanese)
Shop by Nib Width at Pure Pens
Browse our full range of fountain pens at Pure Pens. If you need help choosing the right nib width for your handwriting, get in touch and we will be happy to advise.