How Much Do Engraved Pens Cost? A Complete Price Guide

When considering engraved pens for personal or corporate gifting, one of the first questions that may come to mind is: How much do engraved pens cost? The price of engraved pens can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the type of pen, materials used, the quantity ordered, and the complexity of the engraving. In this guide, we’ll break down the costs of engraved pens so you can make an informed decision whether you're buying a single pen or ordering them in bulk for events or promotional purposes.

1. Factors That Affect the Cost of Engraved Pens

Before diving into specific price ranges, it’s important to understand the various factors that influence the cost of engraved pens:

a) Type of Pen

The type of pen you choose plays a significant role in the cost. Here are some common types of pens and their general price ranges:

  • Basic Ballpoint Pens: These are the most affordable option and are commonly used for bulk orders. Prices generally range from $1 to $3 per pen, depending on the quality and customization options.

  • Gel Pens: Gel pens offer a smoother writing experience, and prices can range from $2 to $6 per pen for engraving, depending on the quality.

  • Metal Pens: Metal pens, including aluminum and stainless steel pens, are a more premium option. Expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $15 per pen for engraving.

  • Luxury Pens: Luxury engraved pens from well-known brands like Montblanc or Parker can cost $20 to $50 or more per pen, depending on the brand and materials.

b) Material of the Pen

The material of the pen directly impacts its cost. Some of the most common materials and their prices include:

  • Plastic Pens: The most affordable pens, often used for mass giveaways or bulk corporate gifts. These pens usually cost between $1 to $3.

  • Wood Pens: Wooden engraved pens offer a unique, eco-friendly option, with prices typically ranging from $5 to $10.

  • Metal Pens: High-quality metal pens such as brass, aluminum, or stainless steel generally cost between $5 to $15 each.

  • Luxury Pens: High-end luxury pens made of premium materials like fine metals or resin can range from $20 to $50 or higher per pen.

c) Quantity Ordered

One of the biggest factors in determining cost is the quantity of engraved pens you are purchasing. In most cases, ordering in bulk will reduce the price per unit. Here’s how pricing might differ based on quantity:

  • Small Quantities (1-50 pens): If you're only ordering a few engraved pens, the cost per pen will likely be higher, typically ranging from $5 to $20 or more, depending on the type of pen and engraving complexity.

  • Medium Quantities (50-200 pens): Ordering a moderate amount of pens can lower the cost per pen. Expect to pay around $3 to $10 per pen, depending on the material and style.

  • Large Quantities (200+ pens): When ordering pens in large quantities, prices can drop significantly. For example, a plastic pen may cost as low as $1 per pen, while a metal pen could range from $3 to $7 each.

d) Complexity of the Engraving

The complexity of the engraving is another factor that can affect the price. Simple text engravings or logos are relatively inexpensive, while more intricate designs, custom illustrations, or detailed engraving will increase the cost.

  • Simple Engraving: Basic engravings such as a name or logo are usually included in the base price of the pen.

  • Complex Engraving: More detailed engravings may cost an additional $1 to $5 per pen, depending on the design and how much space it occupies.

2. Price Breakdown for Different Pen Categories

Here’s a breakdown of typical costs based on the type of engraved pen and order quantity:

a) Basic Custom Pens (Plastic or Basic Metal)

  • Single Pen: $1 to $5 (engraving included)
  • 50 Pens: $1 to $3 per pen
  • 100 Pens: $1 to $2 per pen
  • 200+ Pens: $0.80 to $1.50 per pen

b) Mid-Range Custom Pens (Gel or Mid-Quality Metal)

  • Single Pen: $3 to $10 (engraving included)
  • 50 Pens: $2 to $5 per pen
  • 100 Pens: $2.50 to $4 per pen
  • 200+ Pens: $1.50 to $3 per pen

c) Luxury Engraved Pens (High-End Metal or Luxury Brands)

  • Single Pen: $15 to $50+ (engraving included)
  • 50 Pens: $10 to $30 per pen
  • 100 Pens: $12 to $25 per pen
  • 200+ Pens: $8 to $20 per pen

3. Additional Costs to Consider

When ordering engraved pens, there may be additional costs involved beyond the base price:

  • Shipping Costs: Depending on your location and the supplier, shipping can add anywhere from $5 to $50 or more to your overall order, especially if you're ordering in bulk.

  • Set-Up Fees: Some suppliers may charge a set-up fee for creating custom engravings or printing logos, typically ranging from $20 to $50, depending on the complexity.

  • Rush Fees: If you need your pens in a hurry, some companies charge rush fees, which could add an additional 10% to 30% to the total cost.

4. Where to Buy Engraved Pens

To get the best value for your engraved pens, consider purchasing from reputable online retailers that specialize in custom promotional products. Some popular options include:

  • Vistaprint: Offers a wide range of customizable pens at affordable prices.
  • Pens.com: Specializes in a vast selection of custom pens, including luxury and eco-friendly options.
  • Custom Ink: Known for a variety of pens and engraving options.
  • Staples: Provides engraving services for a range of pen styles.


The cost of engraved pens varies based on several factors, including the type of pen, the quantity ordered, and the complexity of the engraving. For a basic custom pen, expect to pay anywhere from $1 to $5 per pen, while more premium options may range from $10 to $50+. Ordering in bulk can help reduce the cost per unit, making engraved pens a cost-effective promotional tool for businesses and a thoughtful gift for personal occasions.

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