At some point in life, one needs a writing instrument that is reliable and in the best of cases looks good.

Monteverde, Parker, Mont Blanc, you name it.

You have probably heard about Cross too.

For nearly 158 years Cross has built high quality pens. Since its foundation in 1846, the company has been constantly re-inventing pens with superior designs. During all these years, people from all over the world have agreed that Cross is one the best brands of pens in the market.

However, as with any other product, Cross pens have not escaped criticism. Customers usually complain about very specific aspects. Like the quality of refills.

For example, most people agree that original Cross refills require a little bit more pressure than normal to write on paper. They complain as well about the smoothness and quality of the ink.

That is why Cross rollerballs could probably serve better those searching for more ink and less pressure. But, what are the advantages of ballpoint over rollerball pens? Well, they last longer, don't bleed through the page, they are less likely to smudge, and do not clog as easily as rollerball tips.

Some prefer Cross broad point refills since they appear to write smoothly and even better than medium point pens, nonetheless the point size might appear a bit too broad and sometimes the ink flow and color may seem to fade.

It is not that Cross refills are not that good. The thing is that there are many other refills in the market built by other companies that might suit the pen better.

The Foray refill for Cross is a less expensive choice that do not skip as much as a Cross refill.

Schmidt also manufactures refills for Cross, but the performance is not that different from a Cross original refill.

If price is an issue then Penatia refills are the cheapest option of all Cross refills. But as price goes down, one can't really ask to much of them.

Probably, and many customers have agreed, the best option is a Fisher Space pen cartridge. The SC1 Medium Point Cross Pressurized Cartridge writes smoothly, rarely skips, and leaves a fine line on paper.

Additionally, this refill includes all the amazing features of a space pen: It will write on most surfaces, underwater, in extreme temperatures, and zero gravity. The Fisher Space pen cartridge comes in black and dark blue colors.

In conclusion, one can stick to a Cross ballpoint pen refill, be it broad or medium points, or choose another manufacturer that provides a better option.

The refill must be able to fulfill at least the following requirements: No skipping, no smudging, smooth strokes, and long-durability.

Most pen critics have come to the agreement that a Fisher Space pen refill complies with all requisites. Even more.