Ballpoint pen
Ballpoint pen measures ⌀8.0mm. It weighs about 10.0g.
Dimensions
| Diameter | 8.0 mm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 10.0 g |
Ballpoint pen
A standard ballpoint pen measures about 5.5 inches (140 mm) long and 0.35 to 0.47 inches (9 to 12 mm) in diameter, though sizes vary somewhat between brands and models. This page covers typical dimensions, common tip sizes, and how ballpoint pens compare to other writing instruments.
- Dimensions
- Tip sizes
- Ballpoint vs other pen types
- Weight
- Frequently asked questions
- How long is a standard ballpoint pen?
- What does the tip size mean on a ballpoint pen?
- How much does a ballpoint pen weigh?
- Are all ballpoint pens the same length?
- What is the difference between a ballpoint and gel pen tip?
- Related objects
Dimensions
| Measurement | Inches | Millimeters |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 5.5 | 140 |
| Diameter | 0.35 to 0.47 | 9 to 12 |
| Standard cartridge length | 4.0 | 102 |
Tip sizes
| Tip size | Millimeters | Line width |
|---|---|---|
| Fine | 0.7 | Thin, precise |
| Medium | 1.0 | Standard |
| Bold | 1.2 to 1.6 | Thick, heavy |
Tip size refers to the diameter of the small rotating ball at the pen’s point, not the pen’s overall thickness. A fine 0.7 mm tip produces noticeably thinner lines than a bold 1.2 mm tip, which is why the same ink cartridge can create very different line weights depending on the tip installed.
Ballpoint vs other pen types
| Pen type | Typical length (mm) | Ink type |
|---|---|---|
| Ballpoint | 140 | Oil-based |
| Gel pen | 140 to 150 | Water-based gel |
| Fountain pen | 130 to 145 | Liquid ink |
Ballpoint, gel, and fountain pens are similar in overall length, since all three are designed to fit comfortably in an adult hand. The main practical difference is ink type and flow, with ballpoints using thicker oil-based ink that dries quickly, while gel and fountain pens use thinner, faster-flowing ink that produces smoother lines.
Weight
A standard plastic ballpoint pen weighs approximately 0.2 to 0.35 ounces (5 to 10 grams). Metal-bodied pens are considerably heavier, often 0.7 to 1.4 ounces (20 to 40 grams), due to the added weight of the metal barrel.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a standard ballpoint pen?
About 5.5 inches (140 mm), though exact length varies by brand and model.
What does the tip size mean on a ballpoint pen?
It refers to the diameter of the rotating ball at the pen’s point, typically 0.7 mm for fine, 1.0 mm for medium, and 1.2 mm or larger for bold lines.
How much does a ballpoint pen weigh?
A plastic ballpoint pen typically weighs 5 to 10 grams. Metal-bodied pens are heavier, often 20 to 40 grams.
Are all ballpoint pens the same length?
No. Length varies by brand and model, though most fall around 5.5 inches (140 mm) to fit comfortably in an adult hand.
What is the difference between a ballpoint and gel pen tip?
Both use a similar rotating-ball mechanism and comparable tip sizes, but gel pens use water-based ink that flows more smoothly and dries slightly slower than the oil-based ink in ballpoints.
Related objects
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Ballpoint pen weigh?
A Ballpoint pen weighs about 10.0g.