Sun-Star Metacil Metal Pencil vs Pentel Graphlet Review: The UK's Best No-Sharpen & Multi-Size Pencils 2026
Jul 05, 2026
Sun-Star Metacil Metal Pencil vs Pentel Graphlet Review: The UK's Best No-Sharpen & Multi-Size Pencils 2026
Innovation in pencil design has produced two remarkable instruments that challenge conventional assumptions about what a pencil can be. In this review, we compare the Sun-Star Metacil Metal Pencil, a revolutionary metal pencil that never needs sharpening, and the Pentel Graphlet Mechanical Pencil, a versatile mechanical pencil available in five lead sizes to suit every writing and drawing need. Both are available from TTPEN UK.
Sun-Star Metacil Metal Pencil — The Full-Size Metal Pencil That Never Needs Sharpening
The Sun-Star Metacil Metal Pencil is the full-size version of Sun-Star’s revolutionary Metacil technology. At £20.00, it uses a specially formulated metal alloy writing element that produces erasable graphite-grey marks without ever needing to be sharpened — a genuine revolution in pencil design.
The Metacil Metal Lead Technology
The Metacil’s writing element is a metal alloy that deposits graphite-grey marks on paper through a process similar to conventional pencil writing, but without the gradual blunting that requires conventional pencils to be sharpened. The metal element is self-maintaining — it wears in a way that preserves its writing point, ensuring consistent performance from the first mark to the last.
The marks produced by the Metacil are erasable with a conventional eraser, making it a true pencil replacement for everyday use. The full-size format provides a comfortable, familiar writing experience, and the metal body gives the pen a premium, durable feel. At £20.00, the Metacil is a long-term investment that will outlast hundreds of conventional pencils.
Price: £20.00 — Buy the Sun-Star Metacil Metal Pencil at TTPEN UK
Pentel Graphlet — Five Lead Sizes for Every Writing and Drawing Need
The Pentel Graphlet Mechanical Pencil 0.3/0.4/0.5/0.7/0.9mm is a versatile mechanical pencil available in five lead sizes, covering the full range from ultra-fine 0.3mm to broad 0.9mm. At £13.00, it allows you to choose the exact lead size that suits your writing style, handwriting size, and application.
Five Lead Sizes — One Pencil for Every Need
The availability of five lead sizes makes the Graphlet one of the most versatile mechanical pencils available. The 0.3mm size is ideal for ultra-fine writing and detailed technical drawing; 0.4mm suits fine handwriting and precise annotation; 0.5mm is the most popular all-purpose size; 0.7mm provides a bolder line for larger handwriting and sketching; and 0.9mm delivers a broad, expressive line for sketching and bold annotation.
Pentel Quality and Reliability
The Graphlet benefits from Pentel’s decades of mechanical pencil engineering expertise. The lead advance mechanism is smooth and reliable, the grip is comfortable for extended use, and the overall build quality reflects Pentel’s commitment to producing writing instruments that perform consistently throughout their life.
Price: £13.00 — Buy the Pentel Graphlet at TTPEN UK
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Sun-Star Metacil Metal Pencil | Pentel Graphlet |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £20.00 | £13.00 |
| Lead Type | Metal alloy (never sharpen) | Graphite (5 sizes: 0.3–0.9mm) |
| Maintenance | None required | Lead replacement when exhausted |
| Best For | Zero-maintenance everyday writing | Versatile writing and drawing |
Final Verdict
The Metacil wins on zero-maintenance innovation and long-term value; the Graphlet wins on lead size versatility and conventional mechanical pencil performance. Both earn our highest recommendation. Visit TTPEN UK today.
