Pilot has produced many iterations of the popular G-2 gel pen, but the Pilot G-2 Limited is the only one I’ve used that I’d actually consider an upgrade. Rather than simply changing the color or design of the barrel, the G-2 Limited actually uses aluminum parts. This makes for a heftier, more durable pen with a very solid clip.

In addition to the aluminum, the G-2 Limited has a rubber grip that is noticeably softer than standard G-2’s grip – and it’s also a magnet for dust and dirt. It’s comfortable, but the downside is that this rubber grip will wear down faster than the rest of the metallic barrel. Personally, I tend to prefer a more durable grip with a metallic pen, such as the knurling on the Zebra F-701 or the ridges on the Pentel Energel Alloy RT.

Maybe it goes without saying, but if you don’t like the standard Pilot G-2, then the G-2 Limited won’t change your mind. On the other hand, if you’re a fan of the Pilot G-2, then, at around $10, the Limited might be an upgrade worth getting. And with six barrel-color options (gold, silver, purple, red, gray, and blue), you’re likely to find something that matches your style.

Extra Links

• Review at The Gentleman Stationer. He also mentions the similarities between the G-3 Limited and the Energel Alloy RT, which is a better pen in my opinion (but a big part of that is because I really like the Energel’s ink).
• A post at the Fountain Pen Network by user usk15 points out one of the big pluses to this pen: Pilot offers a lot of different colors and sizes of G-2 refills.
• An older review at The Pen Addict. He said he had planned to replace the 0.7mm refill with a 0.38mm refill – good choice.