As an avid writer and someone who has used gel pens extensively, I can certainly provide a detailed answer to why gel pens can be considered “bad” in some aspects. While gel pens have gained popularity for their vibrant and smooth writing experience, they do have a few drawbacks.
One of the main issues with gel pens is their slow drying time. Unlike ballpoint pens or rollerball pens, the ink from gel pens takes a tad longer to dry on the paper. This can be problematic as it increases the chances of smudging. If you accidentally touch the writing before the ink is fully dry, you may end up with unsightly smudges and ruined pages. This is especially frustrating when you're in a hurry or need to write quickly.
Another drawback of gel pens is their tendency to skip across the surface, even with very light pressure. This skipping phenomenon occurs due to the nature of gel ink and the way it interacts with the paper. It can lead to an uneven and inconsistent writing experience, making it difficult to achieve a smooth and continuous line. This issue becomes more noticeable when writing on rough or textured paper surfaces.
Furthermore, gel pens have a limited lifespan compared to other types of pens. The gel ink tends to run out relatively quickly, especially if you write extensively or use the pen frequently. This can be quite frustrating, especially if you're in the middle of an important task or don't have a backup pen readily available. Additionally, gel pens often require more frequent refills or replacements, adding to the overall cost and inconvenience.
In terms of appearance, gel pens are known for their vibrant and bold colors. While this can be a positive aspect for some, it can also be a drawback in certain situations. For instance, if you're looking for a more professional or subtle writing tool, gel pens might not be the best choice. The intense colors may be seen as distracting or unprofessional in certain settings, such as business meetings or formal documents.
Lastly, the gel ink used in these pens can sometimes be prone to fading or smearing over time. With prolonged exposure to sunlight or heat, the writing from gel pens may lose its original vibrancy and become less legible. This can be a concern if you're looking for longevity and durability in your written work, particularly important documents or records.
Gel pens offer a smooth and vibrant writing experience, but they do come with a few drawbacks. The slow drying time leading to smudging, skipping across surfaces, limited lifespan, intense colors, and potential ink fading or smearing are some of the reasons why gel pens may be considered “bad” by some individuals. However, it's important to note that these issues can vary depending on the brand, quality, and personal preferences of the user.