Nib & NotchPens judged notch by notch
Jinhao X450 Fountain PenMetal-Body Classics

Jinhao

Jinhao X450 Fountain Pen

The Jinhao X450 remains one of the best entry points into fountain pen collecting, offering a substantial brass body, attractive dragon-themed finishes, and generally smooth writing performance for a fraction of the cost of premium pens.

4.3
Notch score9/10 notches
  • Budget-friendly luxury feel
  • Smooth writing experience
  • Elegant dragon design
Nib Material
Stainless steel
Nib Sizes Available
Fine, Medium, Bent (calligraphy)
Filling System
Cartridge/Converter (international standard)
Check price on AliExpress

Affiliate link: we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

01Verdict

The Jinhao X450 remains one of the best entry points into fountain pen collecting, offering a substantial brass body, attractive dragon-themed finishes, and generally smooth writing performance for a fraction of the cost of premium pens. While nib quality can vary slightly from unit to unit, most users find it writes well right away or with minor tuning. It's a fantastic budget pick for beginners, collectors, or anyone wanting a stylish daily writer without a big investment.

4.3Jinhao X450Metal-Body Classics · 9/10 notches

02Specs & build

Nib MaterialStainless steel
Nib Sizes AvailableFine, Medium, Bent (calligraphy)
Filling SystemCartridge/Converter (international standard)
Barrel MaterialBrass with lacquer finish
WeightApproximately 25 grams

Build notes

  • Golden dragon and clouds accent on the barrel
  • Available in fine, medium, and bent nib options
  • Large ink capacity via cartridge or converter
  • Weighted brass barrel for balanced writing feel
  • Classic screw-cap design with secure clip
  • Transparent ink window to monitor ink level

03Pros & cons

What we liked

  • Excellent value for the price point
  • Comfortable weight and grip for extended writing
  • Smooth nib performance out of the box for most units
  • Wide variety of colors and finishes available
  • Compatible with standard international cartridges and converters

What could be better

  • Nib quality can be inconsistent between units
  • Cap threads can feel slightly loose over time
  • Included converter has low ink capacity
  • Not ideal for very small hands due to girth
  • Occasional quality control issues with tines alignment

04Full review

The Jinhao X450 is a full-size fountain pen that has earned a devoted following among budget-minded enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike, thanks to its striking good looks and remarkably low price point. Constructed from a sturdy brass core, the pen carries a satisfying heft and balance in the hand, feeling far more substantial than its cost would suggest. Its most recognizable feature is the swirled acrylic or lacquered finish, often paired with ornate golden trim along the cap band, clip, and cap rim, giving it the appearance of a much more expensive writing instrument. The classic cigar-shaped silhouette, with a gently tapered cap and barrel, lends the pen a timeless, formal aesthetic that suits both desk display and daily carry.

At the business end, the Jinhao X450 is fitted with a stainless steel nib, usually stamped with decorative scrollwork and the Jinhao branding, available in fine or medium widths depending on the batch and retailer. While it is not a hand-tuned nib in the way a premium pen might offer, most units write smoothly right out of the box, with a medium wetness that suits everyday journaling, note-taking, and letter writing. The pen uses a standard international converter, which is typically included, allowing users to draw from bottled ink, or it can accept standard international cartridges for convenience on the go. This flexibility makes it easy for beginners to experiment with different ink colors and properties without committing to a single ecosystem.

Beyond its writing performance, the Jinhao X450 has become something of a gateway pen for those exploring the fountain pen hobby, often recommended as a first step before investing in higher-end brands. Its screw-on cap posts securely on the back of the barrel for those who prefer a longer pen while writing, and the mechanism feels solid rather than flimsy despite the pen's affordability. Available in a wide range of colorways, from deep reds and blues to marbled greens and classic blacks with gold accents, it offers collectors an opportunity to gather several variations without a significant financial commitment. For calligraphy hobbyists, students, and office workers looking to add a touch of tactile ritual to their writing, the Jinhao X450 remains a reliable, visually appealing, and accessible choice.

05Owner notes

Short notes from owners, lightly edited for length.

Incredible value

I was skeptical given the price, but this pen writes smoother than some pens costing five times as much. The weight feels premium and the dragon design is a nice touch.

MTMarcus T.

Great starter pen

Bought this as my first fountain pen and love it. Had to slightly adjust the nib out of the box but after that it's been flawless. Great for practicing calligraphy.

ERElena R.

Good but inconsistent

My first one had a scratchy nib, but the replacement wrote beautifully. Seems like quality control is a bit hit or miss, but customer support was helpful.

DKDavid K.

Perfect gift pen

Bought three of these as gifts for coworkers who wanted to try fountain pens. All three wrote smoothly and everyone loved the look and heft of the pen.

PSPriya S.

Solid daily writer

I use this every day for journaling. The ink flow is consistent and the brass body gives it a nice substantial feel. Just wish the converter held more ink.

JLJames L.