The writing is typically very smooth, not scratchy like many other fine point pens. They reliably write on almost any surface. They write well, smoothly and no skips.

Both use pentel ink made in japan, and at first glance they look almost exactly the same. Highly recommended. But amazon for the win.

The only problem i have with these pens is when i lend them to people and they borrow them forever. These are impressive and very utilitarian pens. These pens perform far better than any other pen i've ever owned.

The ink flows well without much soaking in and making blobs. Most importantly for me is how quickly it dries, even on smooth paper. The sharpie smears a bit less on smoother papers, but overall the pentel energel is superior.

The pens were mailed in a plastic amazon bag. Sometimes one month in, sometimes fresh out of the box, these pens crack where the body of the pen and the base of the gripper meet. The pen itself is cheap plastic and makes it impossible to use.