When it comes to marketing tools that pack a punch without breaking the bank, promotional pens are write up there. Whether you’re launching a campaign, attending a trade show, or just want to get your name into more hands (and pockets), branded pens are a simple but powerful way to spread your message.

But not all pens are created equal. From sleek metal styles to environmentally conscious designs, choosing the right promotional pen can really help your brand make its mark.

Plastic Pens: A Cost-Effective Classic

Plastic pens are the go-to for many businesses—and for good reason. They’re affordable, reliable, and customisable. Available in fun and vibrant colours, these pens are perfect for matching your brand’s aesthetic. Ideal for trade shows, giveaways, and events, plastic promotional pens are a great way to get your brand noticed without writing off your budget. Our Nash Ballpoint Pens are one of our most popular printed pen, you can grab 150 of these pens for under £100.

They might not be fancy, but when it comes to reach and practicality, plastic pens are the best choice for high-volume promotions.

Metal Pens: Where Function Meets Flair

Looking to add a touch of sophistication to your branding? Metal pens offer a premium look and feel that instantly elevates your business presence. Made from materials like stainless steel, rose gold, or gunmetal, these pens are built to last and impress.

Perfect for corporate gifting or executive use, these pens are designed to make a polished and lasting impression. Many metal styles can be precision-engraved, adding a subtle, high-end touch to your logo or brand. For those who want to offer the very best, premium options like Parker and Waterman are also available.

With their sleek appearance, satisfying weight, and premium feel, metal promotional pens do more than just write—they reinforce your brand’s credibility and say, without a word, “We mean business.”

Sustainable Pens: The Green Scene

For brands committed to environmental change, sustainable pens offer the perfect opportunity to align your messaging with your mission. Made from materials like recycled plastics, recycled milk carton, bamboo, or wheat, these pens help your business leave a lighter footprint—without sacrificing style or function.

Great for green campaigns, corporate responsibility initiatives, and environmentally focused events, sustainable pens help you write your brand story in a more responsible way.

Luxury Engraved Pens: A Signature Statement

If you’re aiming to sign off in style, luxury engraved pens offer the ultimate in promotional prestige. These premium pens are typically made from fine metals or exotic woods and can be laser-engraved with initials, names, or logos. They’re perfect for corporate gifts, special clients, or marking important milestones. Our personal favourite is our Katrine Soft Touch Monochrome Metallic Pen, it looks simple and comes in premium metal finishes. 

Beyond their good looks, these pens send a message: your brand is high-quality, thoughtful, and built to last. When you want to show appreciation or simply stand out, engraved pens are the kind of promotional gift that says it all—without writing a word.

Full Colour Pens: Make Your Message Pop

For brands that are bold, playful, or creative, full-colour promotional pens let you go all out. These pens can feature full-wrap designs, vivid logos, and eye-catching messages that get noticed the moment they’re picked up.

For example, the Lomond Smooth Monochrome Pen can be ordered in an assortment of colours, and with full-colour print, your logo will stand out beautifully across a range of vibrant finishes

Perfect for fun-loving brands, creative industries, or attention-grabbing campaigns, full-colour pens are an easy way to draw attention—literally. 

Stylus Pens: The Best of Both Worlds

Stylus pens strike the perfect balance between classic writing and modern tech. With a ballpoint on one end and a touchscreen stylus on the other, they’re ideal for offices, remote teams, and professionals on the move. The Awe Stylus Pen is a standout—it comes in a variety of stylish finishes and ink colours to suit any brand.

Choosing a stylus pen shows your brand is forward-thinking and in tune with how people work today. Ready to modernise your merch? This is one smart way to make the switch.

Which Pen is Best for Your Brand?

Ultimately, the best promotional pen is the one that reflects your brand’s personality, priorities, and audience. Whether you’re keeping it classic with plastic, getting stylish with metal, or going green with sustainable options, there’s a pen style that’s perfectly on point for your needs.

And remember—every time someone uses your pen, that’s your brand being seen, used, and remembered. It’s affordable, it’s effective, and honestly, it’s a bit of marketing magic.

When you order pens from Tradeprint, there are no setup fees—unlike most print companies. The price you see is the price you pay. Plus, don’t forget you’ll also save with our free delivery.

Explore our full range of promotional pens today, and find the pen that’s just right for your brand.