Fountain pens · owner-verdict comparison

Lamy AL-Star vs Lamy Safari: what real owners say

Real owners lean toward the Lamy Safari: 69% of 386 owners recommend it, vs 61% of 94 for the Lamy AL-Star.

Verdicts aggregated from Reddit, enthusiast forums, and YouTube owner comments — affiliate reviews excluded. Sample sizes differ; judge accordingly. How we score

Lamy AL-Star

61%of 94 owners recommend
61% recommend · 15% neutral · 24% don't
Owners praise
  • Smooth, enjoyable to write with
  • Durable, holds up for years
  • Premium aluminum feel, good value
Owners complain about
  • Nibs can be scratchy or dry, need tuning
  • Body or looks feel cheap and divisive
  • Heavier than some prefer
Full owner report →

Lamy Safari

69%of 386 owners recommend
69% recommend · 10% neutral · 21% don't
Owners praise
  • Excellent value, quality writer for the price
  • Smooth, reliable nib that rarely skips
  • Durable, near-indestructible workhorse that lasts decades
Owners complain about
  • Nib quality is inconsistent, dry or scratchy
  • Triangular grip section uncomfortable for many
Full owner report →

What Lamy AL-Star owners say

“The Aquatic grip with the Ocean Blue body is a great match!”
— @AlanDayley on YouTube
“I do find I like the Al-Star as I think it ground you.”
— @athenaenergyshine7616 on YouTube
“No matter how fancy the colors of AL Star is I am team Lamy Safari.”
— @wordywordpecker on YouTube

What Lamy Safari owners say

“Nothing has changed which speaks for its quality.”
— @SaraX2024 on YouTube
“I think the thing is built like a tank.”
— @AndreasPinkert on YouTube
“they would always bust ink everywhere in my pockets or worse your school bag”
— @philipwillingham5950 on YouTube