They are reliable. One disadvantage is that they don't last as long as the ballpoint pens. The are personally my favorite pen. They are more expensive, but they are well worth it in order to receive the quality you won't receive from any other pen. The wide array of colors make them appropriate for work and home. While there are refills available, it is almost more worth it to just get a new pen. The price to refill as opposed to replace is not significant enough.The 32 gel pen is for beyond any other pen. Suggestions: don't send it through the wash in your pocket, do not color on yourself with...read full review »