There’s something deeply satisfying about writing with a pen that just flows. A pen that glides across the page without skipping, scratching, or leaving smudges on your fingers.
That’s the promise Sharpie makes with its S-Gel series—a modern take on the classic gel pen, complete with sleek “fashion” barrels and bold black ink.
When I first spotted the 12-count Sharpie S-Gel set online, I was drawn to its aesthetic—each pen wrapped in a stylish barrel color like Ocean Fog, Icy Violet, and Moonlit Midnight. But could these lookers deliver when it came to performance? After putting them through weeks of notes, journaling, and to-do lists, here’s what I found.
Design and Feel: More Than Just Looks
Before we talk about ink and performance, let’s address the obvious—the Sharpie S-Gel pens look fantastic. The assorted barrel colors aren’t just a gimmick; they bring some visual variety to what’s usually a sea of plain black or silver pens.
Each pen feels solid, with a slight weight (about 11 grams) that makes it comfortable to hold for longer sessions. The rubber grip has just the right texture—firm enough to prevent slipping, yet soft enough to keep your fingers relaxed. If you’re someone who takes a lot of notes or journals daily, this small design choice makes a noticeable difference.
And thankfully, the click mechanism is smooth and crisp, not loose or squeaky like cheaper retractables. It’s clear Sharpie put real thought into making this feel like a premium experience without the premium price tag.
Writing Performance: Smooth… Mostly
Here’s where things get interesting. The Sharpie S-Gel uses a 0.7mm medium point, which means it produces a bold, legible line—ideal for everyday writing tasks like note-taking, journaling, or signing documents.
When fresh, the ink is impressively rich and dark, rivaling even pricier gel pens from brands like Pentel and Uni-ball. There’s a pleasant smoothness to each stroke, especially on standard notebook or printer paper.
That said, not all pens in the pack perform perfectly. A few showed slight skipping, especially after sitting unused for a few days. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it does mean the set can feel a bit inconsistent. If you’re meticulous about ink flow, you might find yourself gravitating toward one or two “favorites” in the pack.
Smudge Resistance and Dry Time
One of Sharpie’s biggest claims with the S-Gel line is its “no smear, no bleed” technology. In most conditions, that claim holds true. The ink dries within seconds on standard paper, making these pens an excellent option for left-handed writers (a group often betrayed by slow-drying gel inks).
However, on glossy or coated paper—think planner pages or photo cards—you’ll still notice some smudging if you’re not careful. On thinner paper, the bleed-through is minimal, so you can comfortably write on both sides of a page.
Overall, the quick-dry performance is one of the strongest reasons to give these pens a try, especially if you’re tired of ink stains on your hands.
Everyday Use: Where They Shine (and Where They Don’t)
In an office setting, the Sharpie S-Gel hits a sweet spot between professional and expressive. The design is modern enough to stand out but not flashy enough to look unprofessional. I found myself using these pens most during meetings and journaling sessions—times when comfort and clarity mattered more than precision.
For students, these pens make an excellent choice for long note-taking sessions. The assorted colors also make it easier to assign a specific barrel to each subject—use Icy Violet for history, Moonlit Midnight for science, and so on.
Where they fall short is in art or illustration. While the ink is bold, it lacks the water resistance and fine control needed for sketching or intricate doodles. But as a daily driver for writing tasks, they hold up impressively well.
Value and Sustainability
At their current price point, the Sharpie S-Gel 12-pack falls in the mid-range of gel pens—affordable enough for casual users, yet designed well enough to appeal to pen enthusiasts.
The biggest downside? They’re not refillable. That means once the ink runs out, the pen is done. For eco-conscious consumers, this might be disappointing, especially when brands like Pilot and Pentel offer refill systems. Still, the sturdy construction means each pen should last through months of use before needing replacement.
When it comes to cost-per-use, you’re getting solid value: smooth writing, stylish design, and brand reliability in one package.
The Final Verdict
After weeks of testing, the Sharpie S-Gel Medium Point Gel Pens have earned a permanent spot on my desk. They’re stylish, comfortable, and—most of the time—write beautifully. The ink’s richness and fast-drying performance make them especially satisfying for everyday use.
Sure, they’re not perfect. A few pens may skip occasionally, and the lack of refills limits their sustainability. But for most users seeking a reliable, attractive pen for work, study, or journaling, this set checks nearly every box.
If you’re in the market for a dependable pen with a touch of personality, the Sharpie S-Gel fashion barrel collection is worth a closer look. And since it’s part of Amazon’s New Releases, it’s a great time to explore it—along with other fresh finds in the “Writing Instruments” category that might surprise you just as much.
