10 Best Pens for Rocketbook That Work Perfectly (FriXion Alternatives)
/Looking for the best pen for your Rocketbook notebook?
Rocketbook combines the classic feel of pen and paper with modern technology, and the special ink use with it can be wiped away with a damp cloth, so you can reuse the pages again and again.
But, the Pilot FriXion pen that comes with the Rocketbook won't last too long and there are plenty of better options for erasable ink pens out there - more comfortable, smoother to write with, and better looking.
Plus, not every pen out there works with Rocketbook, so finding the right one is key to getting the best experience possible.
In this post, we're going to check out the best pens for Rocketbook, from fine-point pens to colorful highlighters.
Whether you're a student, professional, or artist, this guide will help you find the perfect pen for your Rocketbook.
At A Glance: 10 Best Rocketbook Pens
Short on time? Here’s a quick summary of my top picks of the best pens for Rocketbooks. Keep reading for the full detail!
TOP PICK: Best Overall Rocketbook Pen: Pilot FriXion Clicker Erasable, Refillable & Retractable Gel Ink Pen
Best Rocketbook Pen Alternative: SMOOTHERPRO Erasable Bolt Action Pen
Best Luxury Rocketbook Pen: Pilot FriXion Ball LX Erasable, Refillable & Retractable Gel Ink Pen
Best Rocketbook Colored Marker Pen: Pilot FriXion ColorSticks Erasable Gel Ink Pens
Best Alternative Rocketbook Color Pens: Vanstek 22 Colors Retractable Erasable Gel Pen
Best Multicolor Pen For Rocketbook: Pilot FriXion Ball Knock 4-Color Gel Ink Multi-Pen
Best Fine Tipped Pen for Rocketbook: Pilot FriXion Fineliner Erasable Marker Pen
Best Highlighter Pen For Rocketbook: Pilot FriXion Light Pastel Erasable Highlighters
Best Writing Pen for Rocketbook: Pilot FriXion Point Knock 04 Gel Pen
Most Ergonomic Rocketbook Pen: Pilot Dr. Grip Limited Refillable & Retractable Gel Ink Rolling Ball Pen
What to look for in a pen for your Rocketbook
When looking for a pen to use with your Rocketbook, there are a few key things to keep in mind.
Most importantly, make sure the pen is compatible with the type of paper used in your Rocketbook notebook – all of the pens on this list are, so no worries there.
The rest all comes down to personal preference. Consider the following:
Size and feel of the pen: do you prefer a light, narrow body or a weighty metal pen?
Tip size: The standard size of the Rocketbook pen is 0.7mm, but finer tips are better for intricate work – plus the ink will last longer.
Color options: pens for the Rocketbook come in tons of different colors. Do you need a pack of 12 different colors or just a single hue?
Refillable ink: Most of the pens on this list can be refilled with standard Pilot FriXion ink cartridges. However, some do not. Consider whether you want to buy new pens when the ink dries, or if refills are the way forward.
Best Pens for Rocketbook: A Detailed Overview
Let’s get down to the nitty gritty, with a comprehensive look at the best pens available for use with the Rocketbook today. Most happen to be part of the Pilot FriXion line, since that’s what Rocketbook recommends – but there a few alternatives out there (cheaper, too), which I also cover.
Best Overall Rocket: Pilot FriXion Clicker Erasable, Refillable & Retractable Gel Ink Pen
The Pilot FriXion Clicker Erasable pen is right up there as the most popular for anyone in need of a versatile and reliable pen for their Rocketbook notebook.
This pen features an ultra-soft gel ink that provides a smooth and consistent writing experience, and its 0.5mm fine tip gives a 0.25mm fine stroke width, making it ideal for taking notes or writing out lists. A broader 0.7mm tip is also available. As you’d expect, they also erase well.
The pen features a fine retractable tip that pops out with a click (no more lost caps!), and its ergonomic design makes it easy to hold and write with for long periods of time.
Best Overall Rocket: Pilot FriXion Clicker Erasable, Refillable & Retractable Gel Ink Pen
The FriXion Clicker is available in a variety of vibrant ink colors, including black, blue, red, turquoise, purple, navy, pink, and green, making it a great choice for finding a pen that matches your personality and needs.
Like nearly every pen on this list, the Clicker is refillable with Pilot's FriXion refills, allowing you to continue writing with your favorite pen for longer, without having to purchase a new one each time it runs out of ink.
Reasons to Buy
The most popular refillable pen for use with the Rocketbook
Available in multiple colors
The retractable design of the pen protects the tip from damage
Reasons to Avoid
A few of the lighter pen colors don’t show up as well when scanned with the Rocketbook app.
What Customers Say
“Purchased to use with my Rocketbook notebook. Wonderful pens. I love how smooth they write. Can be used on other surfaces. Great colors!”
Best Rocketbook Pen Alternative: SMOOTHERPRO Erasable Bolt Action Pen
As you know, there aren’t too many non-FriXion pens that are compatible with the Rocketbook notepad, but the SMOOTHERPRO Erasable Bolt Action Pen is one of them – and it’s a decent alternative, coming with a fine 0.5mm tip.
This pen is made with durable and long-lasting materials, including a stainless steel clip, and a full metal stainless steel body. Its weightiness gives it a premium feel and makes it lovely and comfortable to write with.
Best Rocketbook Pen Alternative: SMOOTHERPRO Erasable Bolt Action Pen
SMOOTHERPRO’s pen features a smooth bolt action design that helps to retract the refill, preventing any mess from being made in your pocket, notebook, or backpack when it’s not in use. Plus, the bolt action design also doubles as a great fidget tool.
The pen comes with one extra unbranded refill, but it isn’t great. Buy the pen and stick to Pilot’s own refills for the best writing experience.
Reasons to Buy
Stylish alternative to Pilot FriXion pens for the Rocketbook
Smooth and satisfying bolt action design
Refillable with Pilot’s own ink
Reasons to Avoid
Generic ink refill included isn’t very good.
What Customers Say
“This is a gorgeous pen. It is nice and heavy, so it feels very substantial in your hand. It is all metal with a brushed silver finish. The mechanism is a slide-bolt, almost like a rifle - very satisfying. I use this with some Rocketbook index cards, so I wanted an erasable pen for my desk that did not look cheap.”
Best Premium Rocketbook Pen: Pilot FriXion Ball LX Erasable, Refillable & Retractable Gel Ink Pen
Whether you're using it to write in your Rocketbook user or not, the Pilot FriXion Ball LX is perfect if you're looking for a stylish, premium writing experience with the added benefit of being able to erase your mistakes.
The brushed metal barrel of the FriXion Ball LX gives the pen a professional, sophisticated look, and the six different barrel colors allow you to choose a color that matches your style - the colors available include black, blue, red, gold, and lime green.
Best Premium Rocketbook Pen: Pilot FriXion Ball LX Erasable, Refillable & Retractable Gel Ink Pen
With a 0.7mm tip, this pen delivers a medium line with a writing width of 0.35mm. The ink color is blue, and in a neat touch, the eraser is located at the top of the pen. When you run out of ink, this pen will take either the 0.5mm or 0.7mm refills.
Reasons to Buy
Luxury pen that works great with the Rocketbook notebook
Brushed metal design with six different color options
Refillable with 0.5mm or 0.77mm ink
Reasons to Avoid
Quite pricey compared to other pen sets on this list.
What Customers Say
“This pen writes incredibly smooth in my Rocketbook. I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't purchased one. Definitely worth the extra cash.”
Best Rocketbook Marker Pen: Pilot FriXion ColorSticks Erasable Gel Ink Pens
The FriXion ColorStick pens are an excellent choice for use at home, school, in the office - especially if you need to add a splash of color to your note-taking.
The pens feature a slim, non-rolling capped barrel design which makes them easy to store and transport, making them a great choice for students, teachers, or professionals who are always on the go.
In terms of color options, the FriXion ColorStick pens come in a pack of 10, which includes one of each of the following colors: Black, Green, Blue, Purple, Pink, Red, Salmon, Orange, Navy, and Gray. This range of colors is perfect for creating bullet journal spreads, grading papers, or simply taking notes in class.
Best Rocketbook Marker Pen: Pilot FriXion ColorSticks Erasable Gel Ink Pens
Unlike other FriXion pens, the ColorSticks aren't refillable, so keep that in mind before making your purchase. They'll last a while regardless, but probably aren't economical for lengthy note-taking sessions.
Reasons to Buy
Brighten up your Rocketbook notetaking with colors!
Plenty of color options including black, blue, green, and red.
Quick-drying ink
Reasons to Avoid
Not refillable: These pens are single-use and you’ll need to buy a replacement set when the ink runs out.
What Customers Say
“I bought these for my Rocketbook and they work perfectly! The colors are vibrant and long lasting and add some much needed color-coding to my notes.”
Best Alternative Rocketbook Color Pens: Vanstek 22 Colors Retractable Erasable Gel Pens
If you're looking for a cheaper option to Pilot's FriXion ColorSticks, Vanstek's offering is just the ticket.
Vanstek offers 22 bright colors, providing a smooth writing experience paired with a durable design. The 0.7mm tips are perfect for daily use, and the retractable design eliminates the risk of losing caps.
Best Alternative Rocketbook Color Pens: Vanstek 22 Colors Retractable Erasable Gel Pens
Vanstek's pens are non-toxic, acid-free, and non-bleeding, and conform to ASTM-D4236 standards for safety. If you're not satisfied, the company offers a 24-hour customer service guarantee and a solution, such as a new set of pens.
Reasons to Buy
Amazing value Rocketbook-compatible pens
Tons of different vibrant color choices
Comfortable to hold and smooth to write with
Reasons to Avoid
The light yellow, light orange, and light gray colors do not get picked up well when scanned.
What Customers Say
“Much to my delight these are compatible with my Rocketbook Flip! When you consider the recommended brand offers less colors for $10+ more, the value of this set cannot be beaten. They clean well, leaving no stains or residue behind on the paper. Absolutely love these. I see them becoming my go to Rocketbook pens.”
Best Multicolor Pen For Rocketbook: Pilot FriXion Ball Knock 4-Color Gel Ink Multi-Pen
Sometimes you just want the versatility to switch between pen colors on the fly rather than fussing with individual pens - and the Pilot FriXion 4 Color Multi-Pen lets you do that in your Rocketbook.
This pen offers four different colors in one: black, blue, red, and green. The pen features a side click mechanism which makes it easy to switch between the different colors, and the chunky barrel and 'Softgrip' area make it comfortable to write with. The pen also has a spring-loaded pocket clip for easy portability.
Design-wise, the Multi-Pen is available in a range of unique colors including black, light blue, and gold. The pen has a fine dot pattern on the body and is refillable with 0.5mm refills.
It might not look as stylish as other options on this list, but for function over form, the Multi-Pen is right up there for professionals and notetakers. The Multi-Pen is available in several colors (the barrel, that is) - including white, black, pink, and gold.
Reasons to Buy
Switch between multiple pen colors in one handy writing instrument
Ergonomic “Softgrip” design for comfortable writing
Multiple barrel colors available
Reasons to Avoid
Chunky design compared to single-color pens might not agree with everyone.
What Customers Say
“This is so much handier to use with my Rocketbook than a whole pile of FriXion pens and I still can use colors to help split up my notes and actions.”
Best Fine Tipped Pens for Rocketbook: Pilot FriXion Fineliner Erasable Marker Pen
Sometimes the standard 0.7mm pen tip just won’t do when you need to do precise writing or drawing – you need to go even finer. Enter the Pilot FriXion Fineliner Erasable Marker Pen, which works great with Rocketbook notebooks and comes with a 0.6mm tip as standard.
With its fine point and assortment of 12 colors, this pen is perfect for stuff like taking notes in color to highlight and remember key points, or organizing your daily life in a fun way with a bullet journal. The colors in this set include black, green, blue, pink, red, and yellow.
Best Fine Tipped Pens for Rocketbook: Pilot FriXion Fineliner Erasable Marker Pen
Like the FriXion ColorSticks, these pens aren’t refillable, so you’ll need to buy a completely new set when you’re done with them (or if your favorite colors run out before the others).
Reasons to Buy
Fine-tipped pen great for precise writing and drawing
Available in 12 colors including green, blue, and yellow
Reasons to Avoid
Drying time: The FriXion ColorSticks take longer to dry (around 15 seconds) than regular FriXion pens, so are more prone to smudging.
What Customers Say
“These pens are great for a Rocketbook. They do not leave pen marks behind. They write like dry erase markers.”
Best Highlighter Pen For Rocketbook: Pilot FriXion Light Pastel Erasable Highlighters
The Pilot FriXion Light Pastel Collection Erasable Highlighter is a unique and versatile product that is perfect for anyone who wants to add color and highlights to their Rocketbook.
Just like the FriXion pens made for writing, you can change your mind and colors as much as you wish, because the erasable thermo-sensitive ink allows you to erase the ink by friction.
This makes it ideal for organizing your work, highlighting what you need to remember during a presentation, or simply adding color and highlights to your journal.
This highlighter set comes with six pastel shades: pink, yellow, lilac, sky blue, and lime, allowing you to add a pop of color to your notes.
Best Highlighter Pen For Rocketbook: Pilot FriXion Light Pastel Erasable Highlighters
The 4mm tip gives a 3.3mm stroke width, making it ideal for highlighting text, and the ultra-softness of the Pilot gel ink provides excellent writing comfort.
The Pilot FriXion Light Pastel Collection Erasable Highlighter is also eco-friendly, as it is made with 50% recycled plastic. And since the pens aren't refillable, this makes it a good choice if you're looking to make more environmentally-responsible purchases.
The ink from these highlighters does take longer to dry than other FriXion pens, so do keep that in mind when using them. If you’re going to be highlighting text soon after it’s written, there is also a risk that you might smudge the ink on the page. To avoid this, many users use the highlighters to underline text, rather than drag right through it.
Reasons to Buy
Highlighters compatible with the Rocketbook!
Wide stroke makes highlighting text easy
Eco-friendly design
Reasons to Avoid
The highlighters are a bit lighter/offer a softer hue than ordinary highlighters.
What Customers Say
“They work well. Purchased them to use as highlighters for my Rocketbook. They work. Some colors don’t show on scan, but most do. If using on Rocketbook make sure you only highlight words once, or else words will be smudged.”
Best Writing Pen for Rocketbook: Pilot FriXion Point Knock 04 Gel Pen
We’ve already looked at one fine-tipped pen on this list – which is probably apt for most people. However, if you’re worried about using a lot of ink and paying for refills, the Pilot FriXion Point Knock 04 pen could be the answer.
The ultra-fine 0.4 mm pen tip means that less ink will be used while writing, which could come especially in handy if you’re going to be writing a lot.
And it’ll be comfortable to use, too. The Point Knock 04 features Pilot’s unique Synergy tip, which provides a super smooth writing experience and combines the precision of a needle point with the durability of a conical point.
This pen is available in eight vibrant colors, including Pink, Red, Orange, Green, Light Blue, Blue, Blue Black, and Black.
Reasons to Buy
Lovely fine-tipped Rocketbook pen for writing
Super smooth to write with
Helps to conserve ink
Reasons to Avoid
Not refillable: These pens aren’t refillable like other FriXion pens on this list, so you’ll need to buy another set once the ink runs dry.
What Customers Say
“I have been using FriXion pens for years with my Rocketbook collection. These are the pens that I have always wanted but could never find. They write smoothly and easily. I have been wanting a fine point erasable pen that has both consistent and pigmented response while I write. These pens, ALL the colors, work wonderfully.
Most Ergonomic Rocketbook Pen: Pilot Dr. Grip Limited Refillable & Retractable Gel Ink Rolling Ball Pen
If you're looking for a comfortable and reliable pen to use with your Rocketbook notepad over long periods, the Pilot Dr. Grip is a great option to consider.
The Pilot Dr. Grip is a smooth-writing ergonomic ballpoint pen with a wide barrel featuring a latex-free cushioned grip that helps reduce writing stress.
It has been commended for its ease-of-use by the Arthritis Foundation, and it's available in medium and fine point, as well as blue, black, or red smear-resistant ink.
Most Ergonomic Rocketbook Pen: Pilot Dr. Grip Limited Refillable & Retractable Gel Ink Rolling Ball Pen
It has a metallic body with rich silver accents, and its dynamic gel ink formula provides a smooth writing experience with a 0.7mm fine point.
This pen is refillable with G2 gel ink refills, and the metal clip provides a high-end look and feel, making it a great choice for both personal use and gift giving.
Reasons to Buy
Super comfortable and ergonomic pen for long Rocketbook writing sessions
Commended for its ease-of-use by the Arthritis Foundation
Refillable with G2 gel ink refills
Reasons to Avoid
Not stylish compared to other pens on this list
What Customers Say
“I wanted a nicer looking and feeling pen for my Rocketbook and the FriXion line just wasn't the vibes. I like this pen quite a bit. It's got some decent thickness for easy grip, which is the nicest part.”
Best Pens for Rocketbook: Comparison Chart
Here’s a quick-look chart to help you compare the key features of each of the Rocketbook-compatible pens on this list, including type, tip size, and color availability.
| Name | Pen Type | Tip Size | Retractable | Available Ink Colors (number) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pilot FriXion Clicker Erasable | Gel Ink Pen | 0.7mm | Yes | 1 |
| SmoothPro Erasable Bolt Action Pen | Gel Ink Pen | 0.7mm | No | 1 |
| Pilot FriXion Ball LX Erasable | Gel Ink Pen | 0.7mm | Yes | 1 |
| Pilot Frixion ColorSticks Erasable Gel Ink Pens | Gel Ink Pen | 0.5mm | No | 10 |
| Vanstek 22 Colors Retractable Erasable Gel Pens | Gel Ink Pen | 0.7mm | Yes | 22 |
| Pilot Frixion Ball Knock 4-Color Gel Ink Multi-Pen | Gel Ink Pen | 0.7mm | No | 4 |
| Pilot FriXion Fineliner Erasable Marker Pen | Marker Pen | 0.3mm | No | 10 |
| Pilot FriXion Light Pastel Erasable Highlighters | Highlighter Pen | Chisel | No | 5 |
| Pilot FriXion Point Knock 04 Gel Pen | Gel Ink Pen | 0.7mm | No | 4 |
| Pilot Dr. Grip Limited Refillable & Retractable Gel Ink Rolling Ball Pen | Rolling Ball Pen | 0.7mm | Yes | 1 |
Tips for Writing on Rocketbook Pages
When writing on Rocketbook pages, it is recommended to use a pen that has been specifically recommended for use with Rocketbook – like all of those on the list above. These pens should be either a ballpoint or fine tip pen with non-permanent ink and fast-drying ink to prevent smudging.
Write with a consistent and moderate pressure to ensure clear and legible writing, and avoid using pens with heavy or wide tips as they may tear or damage the Rocketbook pages.
Allow time for the ink to dry before erasing and use the eraser included with your pen or a soft cloth to erase, and keep the Rocketbook pages clean and free of debris, as this will also ensure clear and legible writing.
Write in clean and straight lines, and avoid using correction fluid or tape on Rocketbook pages as they may damage the pages and prevent clear writing. Finally, label and organize your Rocketbook pages for easy referencing.
Maintenance and Care of Rocketbook Pages
To ensure the longevity of your Rocketbook pages, it is important to store them in a dry place. Additionally, try to avoid exposing Rocketbook pages to extreme heat or direct sunlight, as this could cause permanent damage to them.
Best Rocketbook Pens: Frequently Asked Questions
You’ve got questions about Rocketbook pens, and I’ve got the answers. Here they are to some of the most common queries:
Which pen to use with a Rocketbook?
A recommended pen to use with Rocketbook is a ballpoint or fine tip pen with non-permanent ink that dries quickly. All the pens lifted above will work on a Rocketbook no problem!
Can you use any pen with Rocketbook?
Which Rocketbook pen will you choose?
No, not all pens can be used with Rocketbook. It is best to use a pen that is specifically recommended for use with Rocketbook – every pen on the list above will work fine.
Do all FriXion pens work with Rocketbook?
Not all FriXion pens work with Rocketbook, it is best to check the compatibility of the pen before using it with Rocketbook, but every pen on the list above will.
Can I use Sharpie on a Rocketbook?
No, it is not recommended to use Sharpie on a Rocketbook as it is a permanent marker and cannot be easily erased.
How long does a FriXion pen last?
The lifespan of a FriXion pen can vary, but it is estimated to last for several months with regular use.
Why do FriXion pens run out so quickly?
FriXion pens may run out quickly due to frequent use or if the cap is left off for an extended period of time, exposing the ink to air.
What is the price of FriXion pen refill?
The price of a FriXion pen refill can vary, but it is typically in the range of $2-$5.
Do you need a special pen for Rocketbook?
Yes, it is recommended to use a pen specifically recommended for use with Rocketbook to ensure compatibility and achieve the best results. All of the pens above will work without issue!
Best Pen for Rocketbook: A Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the best pen for your Rocketbook notepad can greatly enhance your writing experience.
In this article, I have discussed the top pens for Rocketbook, including the Pilot FriXion Clicker, Pilot FriXion ColorSticks, and the SMOOTHERPRO Erasable Bolt Action Pen. Each of these pens has its own unique features and benefits, and I have highlighted what makes them stand out.
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Andrew Macarthy has worked from home for over a decade. He is a social media consultant and the author of the #1 Amazon Web Marketing Bestseller, 500 Social Media Marketing Tips - with over 150,000 copies sold to date.
