A couple years back I was looking to purchase my first demonstrator, either a TWSBI Eco-T or a Pilot Prera. Subsequently, I purchased both but a bright idea occurred to me – compare the two. Apparently, this was not an original idea – more on that in the reference material section.
Both pens should be considered entry-level fountain pens which are more than sufficient for me. I believe anyone can make a wonderful expensive pen. Impress me with a wonderful budget-friendly pen. The two pens are in the same price range and thus budget friendly. I did my due diligence and came across comments about TWSBI and quality issues, their customer service earned gold stars (meaning very helpful). The Pilot quality was great and has an impeccable history.
When I made the purchase I bought the Prera. Naturally, I searched until I found a good price. Granted at this price point a deal was insignificant but a “deal” is a deal.
The Prera has a snap-on cap with chrome accents (gotta accessorize), while the Eco-T has a screw-on cap that is off in 1 complete turn, and no chrome accents. The Eco-T is a significantly larger pen (don’t forget I have small hands and stubby fingers). The Prera included a Pilot CON-50 converter vs. the Eco-T piston filler. Some may say the converter is a deal breaker when the other choice is a piston filler but I can always remove the converter and use it in a future Pilot pen. Pilot converters are proprietary.

Both pens sport M nibs, as you can see the Pilot medium nib tip is finer. When put to the test, I found the Prera glides over paper while the Eco-T has a slight drag. Not that it is an issue, it is simply not as smooth as the Prera. Maybe a little TLC is in order.

The cap clips on both pens are chrome, Eco-T feels like it has better-staying strength while the Prera is less likely to bend to the left or right. Ignoring my fingerprint, the Prera clip appears far more refined. Both are flat-bottom pens and we know I have a preference for those.

In case you are wondering, the Prera is my fave but the Eco-T is equally impressive, just a little larger than I prefer. I’ve had nothing but good experiences with both.
Don’t Believe Me, See What Others Say
- Reddit: Prera vs ECO
- Reddit: TWSBI ECO or Pilot Prera
- Reddit: TWSBO ECO vs Pilot Prera
- Reddit: ECO vs Prera
- Well Appointed Desk: Prera Review
- The Writing Desk: TWSBI ECO buying guide