Jinhao Fountain Pen Comparison: 82 vs X159 vs Century 100 vs 10 Capless — Which One Is Right for You?

Jinhao has quietly become one of the most exciting fountain pen brands in the world. Chinese-made, globally loved, and priced to make premium writing accessible to everyone — Jinhao pens consistently punch well above their price point. But with several models available, which one should you choose?

This guide compares four of our most popular Jinhao fountain pens: the 82, the X159, the Century 100, and the 10 Capless. We'll break down the differences so you can find the perfect match.

Quick Comparison Table

Jinhao 82 — The Best Budget Fountain Pen

The Jinhao 82 is the entry point of the range — and what an entry point it is. At just 19.2g, it's the lightest of the four, making it ideal for long writing sessions where hand fatigue is a concern. The piano lacquer acrylic barrel looks far more premium than its price suggests, and the iridium fine nib (0.5mm) writes with a smoothness that genuinely surprises first-time users.

Jinhao 82 — Pros & Cons

• ✅ Most affordable of the four
• ✅ Lightweight — great for extended writing
• ✅ Smooth iridium nib, non-scratchy
• ✅ Converter included — bottled ink ready
• ✅ Available in gold or silver trim
• ❌ Fine nib only — less expressive line
• ❌ Lighter feel may not suit those who prefer a weighted pen

Best for: First-time fountain pen buyers, students, anyone wanting to try fountain pens without a big investment, or a thoughtful budget gift.

Jinhao X159 — The Big Nib Writer

The Jinhao X159 is for writers who want to make a statement. Its oversized #8 medium nib (0.70mm) lays down a broader, more expressive line than the 82 — smooth as silk, with a satisfying flow that makes every word feel deliberate. The piano lacquer acrylic barrel has a streamlined classic design with a high-gloss finish, and at 27.9g it has a satisfying weight without feeling heavy.

Jinhao X159 — Pros & Cons

• ✅ Oversized #8 nib — bold, expressive writing
• ✅ Silk-smooth ink flow, non-scratchy
• ✅ Well-balanced weight (27.9g)
• ✅ Converter included
• ✅ Gold or silver trim options
• ❌ Broader nib not ideal for small handwriting
• ❌ Larger size may not suit smaller hands

Best for: Writers with larger handwriting, those who love a bold ink line, journalers, and anyone who wants to experience what a premium oversized nib feels like at an accessible price.

Jinhao Century 100 — The Step-Up Pen

The Jinhao Century 100 is where Jinhao gets genuinely beautiful. Its celluloid acrylic resin body in grey marble evokes the golden age of fountain pens, and the gold-plated medium nib delivers a writing experience that is noticeably smoother and more refined than the standard steel nibs on the 82 and X159. At 27.5g with a 138mm capped length, it's a substantial pen that commands attention.

It comes complete with a converter and a pen case — making it the most gift-ready of the four.

Jinhao Century 100 — Pros & Cons

• ✅ Gold-plated nib — smoother, more refined writing feel
• ✅ Stunning celluloid marble body
• ✅ Pen case included — gift-ready out of the box
• ✅ Converter included
• ✅ Substantial, premium feel
• ❌ Higher price than the 82 and X159
• ❌ Medium nib only — no fine option

Best for: Writers ready to step up from entry-level pens, collectors who appreciate vintage aesthetics, and anyone looking for a beautiful, gift-worthy fountain pen.

Jinhao 10 Capless — The Convenience Pen

The Jinhao 10 Capless is unlike any other pen in this comparison. There's no cap — instead, a press-activated mechanism extends the fine nib instantly, while a built-in shutter seal prevents ink from drying out when retracted. The deep matte black finish is sleek and professional, and it comes in a gift-ready metal and paper box.

This is the pen for people who want the fountain pen writing experience without the ritual of uncapping — ideal for quick notes, signing, and desk use.

Jinhao 10 Capless — Pros & Cons

• ✅ No cap — instant nib access with one press
• ✅ Built-in shutter seal prevents drying
• ✅ Sleek matte black professional aesthetic
• ✅ Gift-ready metal and paper box
• ✅ Converter included
• ❌ Retractable mechanism adds complexity vs traditional cap
• ❌ Fine nib only
• ❌ Less traditional fountain pen experience

Best for: Professionals who want quick access, desk writers, those who frequently lose caps, and anyone looking for a unique and impressive gift.

Head-to-Head: Which Jinhao Should You Buy?

Choose the Jinhao 82 if…

• You're new to fountain pens and want to try one without spending much
• You prefer a lightweight pen for long writing sessions
• You want a fine line for small or precise handwriting
• You're buying a budget-friendly gift

Choose the Jinhao X159 if…

• You want a bolder, more expressive writing line
• You have larger handwriting or love a generous ink flow
• You're curious about oversized #8 nibs
• You want a classic, glossy design with some weight

Choose the Jinhao Century 100 if…

• You want the most premium feel of the four
• You appreciate vintage-inspired aesthetics
• You're buying a gift and want something that looks special
• You want a gold-plated nib experience without a high price tag

Choose the Jinhao 10 Capless if…

• You want fountain pen writing without the cap ritual
• You need quick, one-handed nib access
• You want something genuinely unique and conversation-starting
• You're buying a gift for someone who values convenience and design

Can You Buy More Than One?

Honestly? Yes. Many fountain pen enthusiasts keep multiple pens inked with different colours — and at Jinhao's price points, building a small collection is very achievable. A common starter set: the Jinhao 82 for everyday fine writing, the X159 for journaling with a bolder line, and the Century 100 for when you want to write something that feels special.

Shop All Jinhao Fountain Pens at TTPEN UK

All four Jinhao models are available at TTPEN UK with fast UK-friendly delivery. Each pen comes with a converter included, so you can start writing with bottled ink straight away.

• Jinhao 82 Acrylic Fountain Pen
• Jinhao X159 Acrylic Fountain Pen
• Jinhao Century 100 Classic Fountain Pen
• Jinhao 10 Capless Fountain Pen