The Person Behind the Reviews
About Alex Chen
I am a 38-year-old product designer based in San Francisco. By day, I design user experiences for tech products. By night (and weekends, and lunch breaks), I write about fountain pens.
My collection currently sits at 200+ pens, ranging from a $15 Jinhao 9019 to a vintage Pelikan M800 I found at an estate sale. I know the difference between a Bock #6 nib and a JoWo #6. I can tell you which inks have the most sheen on Rhodia paper, and which ones feather on Leuchtturm.
Why I Started NibGuide
Most fountain pen review sites are either too basic or too influenced by affiliate money. I wanted something different: honest, detailed reviews from someone who actually uses these pens. No paid placements. No inflated scores because a brand sent me free products.
What I Cover
- Nib sizes and grinds – From EF to stub, what actually writes well
- Ink chemistry – Sheen, shimmer, lubrication, dry time, water resistance
- Paper quality – Feathering, bleedthrough, show-through tests
- Value picks – The best pens at every price point, honestly assessed
- Pen mechanics – Filling systems, nib adjustments, cleaning guides
If you have questions, reach out via the contact page. I read every message.