Metal can be a slippery surface to write on. Contrary to what one might think, not all markers will write on metal, resulting in a streaky mess. However, the best markers for metal do not have that problem as they properly stick on the surface and remain there.
Moreover, aside from metal, these all-around markers can also write on other materials such as ceramic, glass, wood, etc. As such, investing in one is worth it.
This article will list down all you need to know about markers for metal. It will also include a buying guide and a list of the best metal markers in the market.
Contents
What is the Best Marker for Metal
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Amazon Basics Fine Point Tip Permanent Markers Our #1 Pick
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Markal Silver-Streak Round Metal Marker
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Flymax Acrylic White Permanent Marker
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Vickay White Paint Pens for Metal
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Forney Paint Marker for Metal
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Uni-Paint Oil-Based Paint Marker
Top 6 Best Markers for Metal Reviews
1. Amazon Basics Fine Point Tip Permanent Markers
The Amazon Basics permanent markers make for great metal marker pens, especially for beginners. You take off the cap, and they’re ready to go. Moreover, they come with a fine-point tip, helping you write sharp thin lines for legible writings and detailed work.
The pen’s formula also works on various surfaces such as cellophane, clothes, glass, paper, plastic, metal, stone, wood, etc. Along with its quick-drying formula, the marker’s ink is also smudge-free and water-resistant. It is also safe to use as it is non-toxic and conforms to ASTM D4236 standards.
These permanent markers also come in a set of twelve or twenty-four, each offering rich and bold colors. As such, you can see your writing or artwork.
However, you must be careful in using them. Some users reported that the ink bleeds when used on some surfaces.
Pros
- Highly pigmented
- It can be used on a variety of surfaces and purpose
- Quick-drying and smudge-resistant
Cons
- Sometimes bleeds
2. Markal Silver-Streak Round Metal Marker
When you first look at the Markal metal marker, you might not think much of it, considering it seems more of a mechanical pencil than a metal pen. However, looks are very deceiving.
The Markal metal marker pen comes with silver ink, making it ideal on dark surfaces. Its formula makes it versatile as you can write on various metal surfaces like aluminum, iron, steel, etc.
Moreover, it’s quick to dry and does not come off quickly. In fact, you can even use it on oil, rusty, and even wet surfaces. However, if you want to take it off, you need to use a little water or window cleaning formula.
Markal’s pen also comes with six refills, a built-in sharpener, and a pocket clip for your convenience. Its mechanical-pencil appearance protects the stick from accidentally breaking. However, you might have to be careful with the tip.
Pros
- Versatile
- Durable and functional appearance
- Quick-drying and stable formula
Cons
- Tip becomes brittle after long storage
3. Flymax Acrylic White Permanent Marker
The Flymax permanent markers come in a set of six white pens that work well on dark surfaces. They also come with 0.7mm tips that are ideal for designs and detail work on art projects or indicate measurements.
It also comes with a non-toxic and quick-drying formula, making it safe and convenient to use. The ink says well and can be used to write on various materials like fabric, glass, stone, fabric, and similar mediums.
Moreover, the pens do not leak due to their airtight cap and leak-free design. As such, you do not have to worry about accidental spillages.
However, these permanent markers can be a bit difficult to use. It would be best if you shook them well to activate and mix the ink inside. Then, you need to squeeze the body until the ink comes out.
Pros
- Leak-free design
- Versatile formula
- Vivid white color
Cons
- Difficult to use at first
4. Vickay White Paint Pens for Metal
The Vickay markers come in six oil-based paint markers, giving a bright and vivid white color. The color works well on dark surfaces, and with its formula, you can use the pens to write on various surfaces like canvas, metals, paper, plastic, stone, wood, etc.
The pen’s formula is quick to dry and is resistant to smudges and weather conditions. Once dry, the paint gives off an opaque finish. Moreover, it is safe for children since it uses a non-acidic and non-toxic formula.
Vickay’s pen markers come with a medium-point tip, making them versatile for art projects and industrial purposes. Its anti-roll design and valve-action mechanism prevent the ink from accidentally spilling and leaking.
However, some users have reported inconsistent ink flow. On some surfaces, the ink looks a bit thin, while on others, it can become too thick.
Pros
- Anti-leak and user-friendly design
- It gives an opaque finish
- Medium-point tips
Cons
- Inconsistent ink flow
5. Forney Paint Marker for Metal
The Forney paint marker features an oil-based formula that you can use on various surfaces and mediums. Not only that but the ink also easily settles and quickly dries for your convenience. Many users have also reported that the ink stays despite harsh weather conditions and does not smudge easily.
Forney’s oil-based marker comes in eight different colors, each giving a bright and vivid finish. For industrial works, the intensity makes it easier to see and read the writings. Whereas the color provides your art projects the extra pop it needs.
This paint marker is also leak-proof with its airtight cap. Forney’s pen also comes with a precision valve that enables the user to control the amount of ink they can dispense. However, this feature also makes it difficult for some users to obtain ink.
Pros
- Bright and vivid color
- It comes in eight colors
- The oil-based formula quickly dries
Cons
- Might have difficulties dispensing ink
6. Rolodex Uni-Paint Oil-Based Paint Marker
It is no wonder that the Rolodex uni-paint markers are popular in the community. This set of six colorful markers comes with a rounded tip which is ideal for both lettering and design work. Moreover, the colors are bright and vivid and give off an opaque finish when dry.
The pen’s oil-based formula is safe and non-toxic, making it safe for children to use. The ink also has incredible staying power as it can resist various weather conditions and abrasions. Regardless of long disuse, the uni-paint markers provide consistent and smooth ink flow.
Rolodex’s markers come in a durable metal tube and an airtight cap. As such, you won’t have to worry about accidentally breaking the pen or spilling.
However, ensure that you will not leave the marker’s tip open for long periods since the ink dries up quickly.
Pros
- Smooth and consistent ink flow
- Excellent oil-based formula
- Durable casing
Cons
- Quickly dries out
Markers for Metal Buying Guide
There are numerous metal marker pens available in the market, making choosing one challenging to do, especially for beginners. To get the best and long-lasting one, here are some factors you need to remember while shopping:
Type of Ink
Metal marker pens come in two types of ink: a) oil-based and b) water-based.
Oil-based markers for metal use a thicker and shinier formula, making them more popular than their water-based counterparts. They also dry quickly and have excellent staying power and resistance.
For industrial works, the formula makes them clearer to see. Whereas, for artworks, the shine makes them more attractive.
However, oil-based pens are difficult to use since the ink does not dispense easily.
On the other hand, water-based markers have a thinner formula due to their water component. Aside from that, the colors are a bit washed out. They are also easier to use since the ink flows easily.
However, they tend to get smudged. To avoid that, users recommend letting them dry and settle for a couple of minutes.
Ink Permanence and Resistance
Metal marker pens also vary in the length they last on the surface.
If you intend to make your writings last longer, then you should choose a formula that rapidly dries while being resistant to smudges and external weather conditions such as rain, snow, sun, etc. Keep in mind; however, the more potent the ink, the more expensive it will be.
If it is only for a short period, then you can use a marker that has a weaker formula, such as water-based types.
Visibility
Metal marker pens come in sets of various colors. When choosing, ensure that you get a set with the primary colors, especially when using them for industrial work.
However, you can also go for brighter and bolder colors for your art and lettering projects.
Other things to consider before buying
What is a metal marker pen?
While you can use other markers, these pens have a tendency of gliding off and smudging the material as soon as you touch them. On the other hand, metal markers are made of a unique formula that enables them to dry and stick to the metal quickly.
Besides metal, you can also use these marker pens to write on other similar surfaces such as ceramic, glass, wood, and the like.
Metal markers are usually for industrial use to label on equipment and their metalworks. These marker pens are also great for art and lettering projects. They are especially popular in the calligraphy community.
Types of metal markers
Metal marker pens vary on the type of ink used. They come in two types: a) oil-based and b) water-based.
Oil-based metal markers are the more popular type between the two. Compared to water-based pens, oil-based types have a thicker and shinier formula, making them more visible on metallic surfaces. They also have good staying power and are mostly waterproof.
However, you might have some difficulties using them since the ink does not dispense easily.
Water-based metal markers give duller and thinner writings due to their thin tips and formula. While they are easier to use, they need a bit of time to dry to prevent smudging.
Why do you need markers for metal?
Those who work with metal know that it is a very slippery and glossy surface. Writing on it can be difficult since the ink slips right off and smudges once you touch it. Getting metal marker pens is essential if you want your art or writing to be seen.
For industrial work, these marker pens are used to label and indicate equipment and their metalworks. Missing labels and indicators can do more harm than good in this type of work. Moreover, you can also use metal marker pens on other surfaces like wood, glass, ceramic, etc.
Metal marker pens are also essential in art and lettering work. You cannot create and finish your piece if the ink will not stay and keeps on smudging.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular metal marker brands?
There are numerous metal marker brands in the market. However, it would be best to do your research first before buying to avoid accidentally purchasing a low-quality marker pen.
The products listed above are some of the best and most popular metal markers on the market. Aside from them, markers from Pilot and Sharpie are also highly recommended.
Do dry erase markers work on metal?
Yes, dry erase markers make as excellent metal marker pens. For one, their formula works well on smooth, non-porous surfaces such as the following:
- Glass
- Melamine
- Metals
- Porcelain
- Whiteboards
- Other similar materials
However, you might have to be careful in using them since their ink is permanent and can easily stain and bleed into surfaces.
Do paint markers work on metal?
Yes, compared to other marker types, paint markers work well on metal surfaces. Due to their formula, they dry rapidly and stick onto the material.
Paint markers have three main components (pigment, resin, and solvent) and are usually oil-based or water-based. Choosing what type to use depends on their ability to resist heat and to bind through liquids.
Where to buy metal markers?
Metal marker pens are easy to find and are available in most physical stores and online. You can try your local Walmart, home depot, construction supply stores, and other similar establishments for physical stores. Some art shops also carry them.
You can buy them on trusted online shopping sites like Amazon, eBay, and the like for online purchases. If you already have a specific brand, you can also buy directly from their website.
Conclusion
Hopefully, with this buying guide, you now have an idea of the qualities you need to look out for when looking for the best markers for metal. Nonetheless, what you buy is ultimately your choice.
Just ensure that you factor in your needs and preferences. Aside from that, set a price range to avoid unnecessary expenses and costs. There are numerous high-quality metal marker pens available that will not necessarily burn a hole through your wallet.
It is best that you also do your research first before scouring the market. That way, you can save on time and effort. Lastly, always be patient and don’t be afraid to test out the product. Happy creating!
