✒️ LAMY Safari vs. Pilot Metropolitan: The Ultimate Fountain Pen Showdown
When it comes to beginner fountain pens, two names always rise to the top: the LAMY Safari and the Pilot Metropolitan. But which one is right for your hand, your writing style, and your daily carry? Let’s compare these two iconic pens head-to-head — from nib feel to ink flow — and help you decide which deserves a spot in your collection.
✍️ Quick Overview: What Makes These Pens So Popular?
Both the LAMY Safari and Pilot Metropolitan are renowned for their affordability, durability, and user-friendly design. They’re considered the two best entry-level fountain pens for good reason — but they deliver different writing experiences.
| Feature | LAMY Safari | Pilot Metropolitan |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Germany | Japan |
| Material | Sturdy ABS plastic | Lacquered brass |
| Nib Options | Interchangeable stainless steel | Fixed stainless steel |
| Grip | Triangular ergonomic section | Smooth, rounded grip |
| Filling System | Proprietary cartridge/converter | Standard Pilot cartridge/converter |
| Price Range | ~$30–40 | ~$20–30 |
🖋️ Writing Experience: How Do They Feel on the Page?
In our video demo, we tested both pens side-by-side on premium paper using the same turquoise blue ink.
LAMY Safari
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Writes with a crisp, slightly tactile feel
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Ideal for those who write with a “lighter hand”
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The triangular grip enforces proper finger placement
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Best for fast note-taking and everyday journaling
Pilot Metropolitan
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Incredibly smooth, slightly wetter ink flow
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Offers a “glide” that feels luxurious for the price
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Grip section is more relaxed — no forced hand positioning
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Best for long-form writing, letters, or sketching
✅ Verdict: If you love structure and form, the Safari wins. If you crave flow and softness, go Metro.
🧠 Who Should Choose the LAMY Safari?
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Students who take a lot of notes
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Left-handed writers (quick-drying ink + firm nibs)
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Anyone learning correct pen grip
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Fans of modern, angular design
The LAMY Safari is modular and endlessly customizable — from nib swaps to limited edition colors like Dark Dusk and Strawberry.
💌 Who Should Choose the Pilot Metropolitan?
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Journalers and letter-writers
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Beginners who want smooth writing out of the box
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Lovers of understated, professional design
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Budget-conscious buyers wanting premium feel
The Metropolitan also offers a fantastic calligraphy nib option, great for creatives.
🛠️ Maintenance & Nibs
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LAMY Safari nibs are easy to replace or upgrade (EF to B, 1.1 stub, left-handed nibs).
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Pilot Metropolitan nibs are swappable within the Pilot Metropolitan line, but only through switching the gripping sections.
For tinkerers or those upgrading over time, Safari has more flexibility.
🛒 Where to Buy
You can shop both pens directly on our website:
We carry every nib size, ink color, and limited edition — including 2025’s Sunset Coral Safari and the Matte Black Metro.
🎥 Watch the Full Writing Demo
See how both pens perform on paper in our hands-on video test. We compare nib smoothness, line consistency, and ink flow side-by-side.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Which One Wins?
The LAMY Safari is bold, functional, and great for mastering technique.
The Pilot Metropolitan is sleek, silky-smooth, and feels like a steal for the price.
Truth is? You might end up with both — and we wouldn’t blame you.
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