Independent stationery reviews · 100 products on the shelf · Updated October 2026

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Pens & Fineliners

Lamy Safari Fountain Pen

by Lamy

8.8

Quill Pier score

  • Ink flow8.9
  • Comfort8.9
  • Build8.5
  • Value8.1

The Lamy Safari remains a benchmark in the entry-level fountain pen category, offering reliable performance, a distinctive design, and smooth writing experience at an...

  • Smooth reliable writing
  • Iconic ergonomic design
  • Affordable fountain pen entry

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

what you get

Key features

  1. 01Durable ABS plastic body with matte finish
  2. 02Ergonomic textured grip zone for comfortable writing
  3. 03Stainless steel nib available in Extra Fine, Fine, Medium, Broad
  4. 04Spring-loaded stainless steel clip inspired by bicycle brakes
  5. 05Compatible with LAMY Z28 ink cartridges and Z24 converter
  6. 06Available in a wide range of vibrant seasonal colors

the honest bit

Pros & cons

What we liked

  • Lightweight yet sturdy construction
  • Smooth and consistent ink flow
  • Iconic design recognized among fountain pen users
  • Affordable entry point into fountain pens
  • Easy nib swapping for different writing styles
  • Wide availability of ink colors and cartridges

What could be better

  • Triangular grip may not suit all hand positions
  • Plastic body feels less premium than metal pens
  • Clip can be tight and hard to attach to thick fabric
  • Limited broad nib options in some regions

from our desk

Our Lamy Safari Fountain Pen review

The Lamy Safari fountain pen has become something of a modern classic among stationery enthusiasts, and for good reason. Crafted from durable ABS plastic with a distinctive clip that wraps around the cap like a bent paperclip, this pen was originally designed in the 1980s but still feels fresh today. Its body comes in a rotating cast of bold, saturated colors each season, from matte charcoal to glossy coral, making it as much a style statement as a writing tool. The stainless steel nib, available in fine, medium, broad, and left-handed variants, delivers smooth, consistent ink flow that both beginners and seasoned writers appreciate.

What truly sets the Safari apart is its ergonomic grip section, molded with subtle indentations that guide fingers into a proper writing position. This makes it a favorite recommendation for students learning cursive or anyone transitioning from ballpoint pens to fountain pens for the first time. The pen accepts both Lamy's proprietary ink cartridges and the Z24 converter for those who prefer filling from bottled ink, giving users flexibility in how they manage their writing ritual. Weighing in at a light yet sturdy build, it sits comfortably in the hand during long journaling or note-taking sessions without causing fatigue.

For anyone building out a planner or stationery collection, the Safari serves as an accessible entry point into the world of fountain pens without sacrificing quality or performance. It pairs beautifully with dot-grid notebooks and planner inserts, where its reliable ink flow prevents feathering on most paper stocks. The pen's clear ink window near the grip section lets users monitor ink levels at a glance, a thoughtful touch for those who rely on their pen daily. Whether used for addressing invitations, filling out a bullet journal, or simply enjoying the tactile pleasure of handwriting, the Lamy Safari remains a dependable, stylish companion for anyone who values the craft of putting pen to paper.

how it stacks up

Compared with top pens

ProductBest atInk flowComfortBuildQP scoreOpen
Lamy Safari Fountain PenThis reviewSmooth reliable writing8.98.98.58.8
Sakura Pigma Micron PensSakuraArchival fade-resistant ink9.59.29.49.6
Staedtler Triplus FinelinersStaedtlerUltra-fine precision tips8.68.59.49.0
Pilot Metropolitan Fountain PenPilotSmooth reliable nib8.68.88.99.0

The verdict

Our verdict

The Lamy Safari remains a benchmark in the entry-level fountain pen category, offering reliable performance, a distinctive design, and smooth writing experience at an accessible price. Its ergonomic grip is divisive for some but beloved by many, making it a great starter pen or a fun addition to any collection.

8.8
Lamy Safari Fountain PenQuill Pier score 8.8 / 10
Check price