INEXPENSIVE: POKKA PENS POCKET PEN REVIEW

I usually don't pay much attention to disposable pens. I suppose it's some kind of pen-snobbism, caused by having too many 'fancier' options on hand. But that doesn't mean I can't enjoy a good disposable pen when I find one. In fact, it can be incredibly satisfying to find a cheap pen that writes great. Also, despite having a myriad of pens to choose from, there are always occasions where an expensive (fountain) pen isn't practical. You know, those situations that really call for a cheap Bic stick but you can't find one? I've been there so many times myself!

And that's where Pokka Pens comes into play. You see, most of those scenarios where you need that fast, no-nonsense writing experience, happen when you are out and about. Carrying a full-sized Bic (or other cheapo pen) isn't practical. The symbiosis of affordable, no-nonsense and pocketable, that's the Pokka pen!

Pokka pens have a very simple design. I found it largely inspired by the Kaweco Sport 'small in the pocket, large in the hand', but maybe even better for pocket carry. It's a very small pen when closed, measuring in at just 8.4 cm (3.3") long when closed, with a 1.1 cm (0.43") diameter. Even a Fisher Space pen or Kaweco Sport dwarfs it. The Pokka is made of injection molded plastic, the cap walls are thick, and overall the construction feels solid. At least solid enough to last until the refill is empty for sure.

While I was a bit hesitant at first about how a pen so small could be anywhere near usable, It's obviously very convenient for pocket carry. In fact, I'd often forget about it being in my pocket! Now, I'm not really an EDC kind of person, so I might not be the most knowledgeable person to say this, but I think the genius is in the fact that it's so small that you forget about it. It makes it an easy choice to take with you all the time. It doesn't bother you, yet it's there when you need it.

The Pokka is kept closed with a rubber O-ring which makes the cap snap with a very satisfying sound. I'd find myself fidgeting with it all the time, which is both a good and bad thing I suppose. The back of the pen has the same diameter, and another o-ring, allowing the cap to be posted securely. The back portion of the pen is really short, so I wasn't sure if the cap would stay on securely while writing, but this turned out not to be a problem at all. 

L to R: Fisher Space Pen, Kaweco sport ballpoint, Pokka Pen, Kaweco sport fountain pen, Lamy 2000.

When posted, the pen transforms into a full-sized 14 cm (5.5") pen. For a ballpoint, that's actually quite long, so definitely no problem in terms of comfort in that area. I did find the hexagonal profile grip section to be a little narrow, but that comes from someone who generally prefers larger pens. For the intended use, the Pokka pen offers a comfortable writing experience, and I actually found myself often using it for longer note taking sessions too.

I've been playing with these little pens for a while now, and to be honest I never thought I'd have so many uses for it. They have been part of my daily carry for the past three months or so, and while there have been days that this little pocket pen didn't leave my pocket, there have also been times where it saved the day.  

Now of course it's still a disposable ballpoint. So yeah, when it comes to the actual writing, you shouldn't expect the best writing experience in the world. It comes standard with a black, medium refill (the only option as far as I can tell), which works as a ballpoint is supposed to work. It's smooth and lays down a relatively consistent, dark line. But when you're used to rollerballs or gel ink pens, you won't be able to get that here. 

UPDATE: The Pokka Pens website has been updated, and as of now refills are also available in blue or black (2.95 USD per pack of 3). The Pokka pen isn't designed to be re-used, but with a pair of pliers you can easily pull out the old refill and then just friction fit the new one. 

The idea behind the Pokka pens is straightforward and well-executed. At 8.45 USD for a pack of 3 (some colorways are a bit more expensive). It's pretty hard not to recommend trying them out. They are affordable, sturdy, no-brainer pens. Put one in your pocket or purse, and I assure you they'll come in handy more often than you'd think.

Note: This product was sent to me by Pokka Pens, free of charge, so I could write this review.  I was in no way influenced in the making of this review, the opinions shared in this review are completely my own! This post does not contain affiliate links.