The Best Pens For Writing (2022): A Guide For Writers The best pen to write on this paper is a felt-tip or ballpoint pen. Fountain pens smudge easily on this paper. 4. Stationery or index cards. Stationery cards, or note cards, are thick and absorb ink really well. The best pens for stationery cards are felt tip, fountain pens and markers. Good index cards are usually heavy and absorb ink.