Pen Refills Explained: How to Find the Right Refill for Your Pen

One of the most common questions I receive is:

"Which refill do I need for my pen?"

Unfortunately, there isn't a universal refill that fits every pen. Different brands use different refill sizes, shapes, and coding systems, which can make replacing a refill surprisingly confusing.

The good news is that once you know what to look for, finding the correct refill becomes much easier.

Why Refillable Pens Matter

Many of the pens sold at Note & Nib are designed to be refilled rather than thrown away when the ink runs out.

Benefits include:

• Less plastic waste
• Lower long-term cost
• The ability to keep using a pen you love
• Access to different ink colours and tip sizes
• Better value from premium pens

A quality Japanese pen can often last for years with nothing more than a replacement refill.

Whether it's a Uni-ball Jetstream, Uni One, Zento, EnerGel, or many other models, replacing the refill takes only a few seconds and helps extend the life of your pen.

Step 1: Remove the Existing Refill

The easiest way to identify a refill is to remove the one currently inside your pen.

Most refills have information printed directly on the barrel, such as:

• Refill code
• Tip size
• Ink colour
• Manufacturer name

Examples include:

• SXR-80-05
• UMR-85N
• BRFN-30
• LR7
• D1
• G2

This code is usually the quickest way to identify the correct replacement.

Step 2: Understanding Refill Codes

Many refill codes tell you exactly what you're looking at.

For example:

Uni Jetstream SXR-80-05

• SXR = Jetstream refill series
• 80 = Refill model
• 05 = 0.5mm tip size

Uni Jetstream SXR-80-38

• Same refill body
• 0.38mm tip

Pilot BRFN-30

• BRFN = Pilot ballpoint refill
• 30 = Refill series

Pentel LR7

• LR = EnerGel refill series
• 7 = 0.7mm tip

Once you understand the code, it becomes much easier to identify compatible replacements.

Step 3: Check the Tip Size

Many manufacturers include the tip size within the refill code.

Common examples:

Code Ending	Tip Size
38	0.38mm
05	0.5mm
07	0.7mm
10	1.0mm

This isn't always the case, but it works for many Japanese pen brands.

Step 4: Some Refill Types Are Shared Between Brands

A few refill formats have become industry standards.

One of the most common is the Parker-style G2 refill. Despite the name, it is used by many manufacturers and is considered an international standard size. A G2 refill is approximately 98mm long and 5.8mm in diameter. Many Parker, Schmidt, Rotring, Pelikan, Monteverde, and other ballpoint pens use this format.

However, this is where things can get confusing.

A Parker-style G2 refill is completely different from a Pilot G2 pen refill. Despite sharing the same name, they are not compatible with one another.

Step 5: When You Can't Find a Code

Sometimes the printing has worn off, or the refill is completely unmarked.

In that case:

1. Remove the refill.
2. Take a clear photo of the refill & another of the pen your using.
3. Measure the refill length if possible.
4. Send me the photo to WhatsApp 087 436 6592.

I can often identify a refill simply from its shape and dimensions.

Can't Find Your Refill on Note & Nib?

I don't list every refill available from every manufacturer.

If you can't find the refill you're looking for on the website, please get in touch.

Send me:

• A photo of the refill
• The pen model (if known)
• Any code printed on the refill

Even if I don't currently stock it, I may be able to source it through my suppliers.

A quick message can often save you from buying the wrong refill. WhatsApp 087 436 6592

Final Thoughts

Pen refills can seem complicated at first, but the refill itself usually contains the clues you need.

Start by checking the code printed on the refill. If that doesn't work, send me a photo and I'll do my best to help identify it.

After all, a good pen deserves a refill rather than being left in a drawer.

Thanks, Clodagh 🖋