If you're like me and go through pens like candy, the Amazon Basics Retractable Ballpoint Pens in a 12-pack are a lifesaver. I've been using them daily for note-taking, journaling, and even doodling during Zoom meetings.

The 1.2mm tip creates bold, consistent lines without skipping - something I desperately need when scribbling quick meeting notes. The blue ink is vibrant but not overwhelming, perfect for professional settings.

What surprised me most was the comfortable grip. After writing 3 pages of meeting minutes straight, my hand didn't cramp up like it usually does with cheaper pens. The rubberized section has just enough texture without being abrasive.

The retractable mechanism has held up well over months of use - no accidental deployments in my bag yet! At about $0.30 per pen, they're incredible value, especially compared to premium brands that cost 3-4x more.

That said, they're not perfect. The ink flow can be inconsistent when writing very fast (my hurried grocery lists sometimes show gaps). Also, while most lasted months, two pens in my pack stopped working prematurely.

For everyday writing where perfection isn't crucial - office memos, student notes, shopping lists - these punch far above their price point. I've converted several coworkers to these pens after they kept 'borrowing' mine!