Not every great fountain pen needs to cost a fortune. The Hero 359 Fountain Pen proves that exceptional writing quality can be achieved at a remarkably accessible price point. At just £9, it is one of the best value fountain pens available anywhere in the world — and a pen that has earned a devoted following among students, beginners, and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
Hero: A Chinese Pen Making Legend
Hero is one of China's oldest and most respected pen brands, with a history stretching back to 1931. For nearly a century, Hero has been producing fountain pens that combine reliable performance with exceptional affordability. The 359 is one of their most popular models — a pen that distils decades of pen-making expertise into a simple, reliable, and genuinely enjoyable writing instrument.
Design & Build Quality
The Hero 359 has a classic, understated design that prioritises function over form. The barrel and cap are made from lightweight plastic, available in several colours. The pen is slim and lightweight, making it comfortable to carry and use throughout the day.
For a pen at this price point, the build quality is impressive. The cap threads are smooth and precise, and the clip is functional and sturdy. The pen feels solid in the hand, with no flex or wobble in the cap or barrel. It is a pen that is built to be used, not admired from a distance.
The pen is slim enough to fit comfortably in a shirt pocket or pencil case, and the lightweight construction means it never feels burdensome to carry. It is the ideal companion for students, commuters, and anyone who needs a reliable pen for everyday use.
The Nib
The Hero 359 is fitted with a steel nib available in Extra Fine, Fine, and Medium widths. For a budget pen, the nib performance is genuinely impressive. Ink flow is consistent and reliable, and the nib writes smoothly across a wide range of paper types.
The Extra Fine nib, in particular, is a standout performer — producing a crisp, precise line that is ideal for detailed writing, note-taking, and annotation. It is a nib that competes favourably with pens costing several times as much.
Filling System
The Hero 359 uses standard international cartridges, which are widely available and inexpensive. A converter can also be used for those who prefer bottled ink. The cartridge system makes the pen particularly convenient for everyday use — simply swap in a new cartridge when the ink runs out and you're ready to write again.
Writing Experience
Writing with the Hero 359 is a surprisingly enjoyable experience. The nib glides smoothly across the page, and the ink flow is consistent and reliable. The lightweight construction makes the pen comfortable for extended writing sessions, and the slim profile suits a wide range of grip styles.
The 359 is an ideal pen for those new to fountain pens — it delivers a genuine fountain pen writing experience without the investment required for more premium models. It is also an excellent backup pen for experienced enthusiasts, or a pen to lend to friends and colleagues who are curious about fountain pens.
Who Is the Hero 359 For?
- Beginners taking their first steps into the world of fountain pens
- Students who need a reliable, affordable everyday writing instrument
- Budget-conscious writers who don't want to compromise on writing quality
- Experienced enthusiasts looking for an inexpensive backup or travel pen
- Gift buyers introducing someone to the joy of fountain pen writing
Pros and Cons
Pros: Exceptional value at £9 · Smooth, reliable nib · Lightweight and portable · Standard cartridge compatible · Great for beginners · Multiple colour options
Cons: Plastic construction · No converter included · Limited nib width options · Basic aesthetics
Final Verdict
The Hero 359 Fountain Pen is proof that great writing doesn't have to cost a lot. At £9, it offers a writing experience that will surprise and delight anyone who tries it. Whether you're new to fountain pens or a seasoned enthusiast looking for an affordable everyday writer, the Hero 359 is an outstanding choice that delivers far more than its price tag suggests. Order yours from TTPEN UK today.
