The Lamy Safari Fountain Pen and Pilot Metropolitan Fountain Pen are two of the most recommended beginner fountain pens in the world. Both offer excellent value, dependable performance, and an easy introduction to fountain pen writing. However, they provide very different experiences when it comes to grip, nib feel, design, and overall writing style.
If you're purchasing your first fountain pen or looking for an affordable daily writer, this comparison will help you decide whether the Lamy Safari or Pilot Metropolitan is the better choice for your needs. Browse our complete selection of quality fountain pens.
For a broader comparison of the brands behind these pens, see our guide to Lamy vs Pilot Fountain Pens.
Lamy Safari vs Pilot Metropolitan at a Glance
| Feature | Lamy Safari | Pilot Metropolitan |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Germany | Japan |
| Body Material | ABS Plastic | Brass Metal |
| Nib Sizing | Western | Japanese |
| Writing Feel | Firm & Controlled | Smooth |
| Nib Swapping | Easy | Limited |
| Grip Style | Triangular | Traditional Round |
| Weight | Lightweight | Heavier |
| Best For | Learning Fountain Pens | Smooth Everyday Writing |
Lamy Safari Overview
The Lamy Safari has become one of the most iconic beginner fountain pens available. Originally designed for students, the Safari is known for its durability, lightweight construction, and distinctive ergonomic grip section.
Popular features include:
- Triangular grip section
- Interchangeable nibs
- Durable ABS plastic construction
- Large color selection
- Easy maintenance
The Safari is often recommended in our guide to Best Fountain Pens for Beginners. Explore even more fountain pens by Lamy.
Pilot Metropolitan Overview
The Pilot Metropolitan is frequently considered one of the best values in fountain pens. Despite its affordable price, it offers excellent build quality, a metal body, and the smooth writing experience Pilot is known for.
Popular features include:
- Brass metal body
- Smooth stainless steel nib
- Classic professional appearance
- Excellent value
- Reliable performance
Bowse all our our fountain pens by Pilot.
Lamy Safari vs Pilot Metropolitan Nibs
The nib experience is one of the biggest differences between these two pens.
Lamy Safari Nib
The Safari uses Lamy's interchangeable stainless steel nib system. Nibs are available in Extra Fine, Fine, Medium, Broad, and several specialty sizes.
Many users appreciate the ability to change nib sizes without purchasing a new pen.
Pilot Metropolitan Nib
The Metropolitan uses Pilot's Japanese-style nib sizing. Pilot nibs are often praised for smoothness and consistency, making the Metropolitan feel refined well beyond its price point.
| Nib Characteristic | Lamy Safari | Pilot Metropolitan |
|---|---|---|
| Smoothness | Very Good | Excellent |
| Feedback | Moderate | Low |
| Nib Swapping | Excellent | Limited |
| Nib Options | Extensive | Limited |
Western vs Japanese Nib Sizing
One important difference is nib sizing.
The Lamy Safari uses Western nib sizing while the Pilot Metropolitan uses Japanese nib sizing.
| Lamy Safari | Comparable Pilot Metropolitan |
|---|---|
| Extra Fine | Fine |
| Fine | Medium |
| Medium | Broad |
Because Pilot nibs are generally finer, they are often preferred by writers with smaller handwriting.
Learn more in our guides to Japanese vs Western Fountain Pen Nibs and Fountain Pen Nib Sizes Explained.
Grip Section Comparison
The grip section is one of the most significant differences between these pens.
Lamy Safari Grip
The Safari uses a molded triangular grip designed to encourage proper finger placement. Many beginners find this helpful, though some experienced writers dislike being forced into a specific grip position.
Pilot Metropolitan Grip
The Metropolitan uses a traditional round grip section that allows users to hold the pen however they prefer.
| Feature | Lamy Safari | Pilot Metropolitan |
|---|---|---|
| Grip Style | Triangular | Round |
| Beginner Friendly | Excellent | Excellent |
| Grip Flexibility | Moderate | Excellent |
Build Quality and Durability
Although both pens are durable, they achieve durability differently.
The Safari uses lightweight ABS plastic that can withstand years of daily use. The Metropolitan uses a brass body that gives it a more premium feel.
| Feature | Lamy Safari | Pilot Metropolitan |
|---|---|---|
| Material | ABS Plastic | Brass |
| Weight | Light | Moderate |
| Premium Feel | Moderate | High |
| Durability | Excellent | Excellent |
Which Pen Is Better for Beginners?
Both pens are outstanding beginner choices, but they appeal to slightly different users.
| If You Want... | Choose... |
|---|---|
| Easy nib swapping | Lamy Safari |
| Smoother writing | Pilot Metropolitan |
| Lighter weight | Lamy Safari |
| Metal construction | Pilot Metropolitan |
| Guided grip | Lamy Safari |
| Smaller handwriting | Pilot Metropolitan |
Both pens are frequently featured in our guides to Best Beginner Fountain Pens and Best Fountain Pen Nib Size for Beginners.
Who Should Buy the Lamy Safari?
- First-time fountain pen users
- Students
- Writers who want interchangeable nibs
- Users who prefer lightweight pens
- Fans of modern design
Who Should Buy the Pilot Metropolitan?
- Writers seeking maximum value
- Users who want smoother writing
- People who prefer metal-bodied pens
- Writers with smaller handwriting
- Fans of traditional pen design
Final Verdict: Lamy Safari vs Pilot Metropolitan
The Lamy Safari and Pilot Metropolitan are two of the best beginner fountain pens ever made.
- Choose the Lamy Safari if you want easy nib swapping, a lightweight design, and a grip section that helps develop proper fountain pen technique.
- Choose the Pilot Metropolitan if you prefer a smoother nib, metal construction, and a more traditional writing experience.
Most fountain pen enthusiasts eventually try both because they represent two very different approaches to beginner-friendly fountain pens.
For a broader comparison of the brands behind these pens, visit our guide to Lamy vs Pilot Fountain Pens.
Related Fountain Pen Guides
- Fountain Pens by Lamy Compared to Pilot
- Lamy 2000 vs Pilot Custom 823 Compared
- Pilot vs Sailor Fountain Pens
- Difference Between Japanese and Western Fountain Pen Nibs
- Best Starter Fountain Pens
- Best Fountain Pen Nib Size for Beginners
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Lamy Safari better than the Pilot Metropolitan?
Neither pen is objectively better. The Lamy Safari excels in nib customization and ergonomic design, while the Pilot Metropolitan offers a smoother writing experience and metal construction.
Which pen is smoother, the Lamy Safari or Pilot Metropolitan?
Most writers consider the Pilot Metropolitan smoother, although both pens provide excellent writing performance for their price range.
Why does the Lamy Safari have a triangular grip?
The triangular grip is designed to encourage proper finger placement and help new users learn fountain pen writing technique.
Is the Pilot Metropolitan good for beginners?
Yes. The Pilot Metropolitan is widely considered one of the best beginner fountain pens because of its smooth nib, durable metal body, and excellent value.
