Pens are one of the lowest cost promotional items per impression. In ASI's 2026 study, writing instruments cost about a tenth of a cent per impression. For thousands of pens, pick a style that writes well, keep the imprint to one or two colors on the barrel, and order a buffer since pens disappear fast.
Pen styles
| Style | Best for |
|---|---|
| Plastic click pen | Large giveaways, trade shows, offices |
| Stylus pen | Tech events, people who use touch screens |
| Metal pen | Client gifts, executives, banks and law firms |
| Gel or soft touch pen | A better writing feel at a small price step up |
Imprint
Pens have a small imprint area on the barrel or clip. One or two spot colors keep cost down; full color printing is available on many styles. Keep the logo simple and the text large enough to read, such as your name and website.
Why pens still work
People use pens every day and pass them around. In ASI's 2026 study, 65% kept writing instruments at least a year and each made about 1,900 impressions.
How to place a large merchandise order
Frequently asked questions
- Are custom pens still a good giveaway?
- Yes. They cost about a tenth of a cent per impression and get used daily (ASI 2026).
- What should we print on a pen?
- Your logo or name and one short line, such as a website or phone number, in one or two colors.
- What pen is best for client gifts?
- A metal pen with an engraved logo.