People write for different reasons. Some write notes. Others write journals. Some sketch ideas. Pens help turn thoughts into words. The right pen can make writing easy and smooth.
Two popular pens are the Neo Smartpen N2 and the Lamy Safari. One is digital. The other is traditional. This article compares both pens. It explains how they work. It lists their pros and cons. This will help you decide which one suits your needs.
Key Takeaways:
- Neo Smartpen N2 captures real ink writing on special paper and syncs it digitally in real-time.
- It offers Bluetooth connectivity, offline storage, and works best with Ncoded notebooks.
- Lamy Safari is a traditional fountain pen with ergonomic design, ideal for beginners and handwriting lovers.
- The Safari delivers a smooth, expressive writing experience with minimal mess using cartridges or bottled ink.
- Neo N2 is great for note-takers who want to digitize their handwriting; Lamy Safari suits those who enjoy analog writing.
- Both pens serve different purposes—digital productivity vs. classic writing feel.
Overview of Neo Smartpen N2
The Neo Smartpen N2 is a digital pen. It captures handwriting and sends it to digital devices. It looks like a normal pen but works with a special app.
You can read a full Neo Smartpen N2 review here, or check out how it compares with the Moleskine Pen in our detailed comparison guide.
Key Features
- The pen uses a small camera to track movements.
- It works with Ncoded paper only.
- It connects to phones or tablets using Bluetooth.
- It stores up to 1,000 pages when offline.
- The battery lasts about 5 hours of active writing.
- You can recharge it with a USB cable.
- It works with the Neo Studio app and Google Drive.
Design
- The body is made of aluminum and plastic.
- It weighs about 22 grams.
- The pen is slightly thicker than regular pens.
- It comes in black, silver, gold, and blue.
Pros and Cons of Neo Smartpen N2
Pros
1. Digital Note Capture
The pen saves your handwriting as digital text. You don’t need to scan or type.
2. Sync with Apps
It works with cloud storage like Google Drive and Evernote.
3. Real-Time Updates
You can see your notes appear on your screen as you write.
4. Audio Recording
The app can record sound while you write. It links the audio to each word.
5. Offline Storage
You can write without internet. The pen stores your notes and syncs later.
Cons
1. Requires Special Paper
You must use Ncoded paper. This paper costs extra.
2. Needs Charging
The battery needs regular charging.
3. Higher Price
The pen costs around $130 to $170. This is more expensive than normal pens.
4. Learning Curve
The app has many features. It takes time to learn them all.
5. Limited Drawing Use
The pen is not ideal for artists. It lacks pressure sensitivity.
Overview of Lamy Safari
The Lamy Safari is a fountain pen. It uses ink and a nib to write on paper. It does not need power or apps. It offers a smooth writing experience.
If you’re also curious about other smart pens, you can read our Livescribe Symphony review for another alternative to the Neo N2.
Key Features
- It uses ink cartridges or a converter with bottled ink.
- The body is made from ABS plastic.
- It includes a transparent ink window.
- It comes in many colors.
- Nib sizes include Extra Fine (EF), Fine (F), Medium (M), and Broad (B).
- It is light and easy to hold.
Design
- The grip section helps hold the pen correctly.
- The clip attaches to notebooks and pockets.
- The nib can be replaced easily.
Pros and Cons of Lamy Safari
Pros
1. Affordable
The pen costs around $20 to $30. It is cheap compared to smartpens.
2. Durable
The plastic body is strong. It lasts for years.
3. Smooth Writing
Ink flows easily. It works well on good paper.
4. Easy to Customize
You can change nibs and ink colors.
5. No Charging Needed
You can write anytime. No batteries required.
Cons
1. Requires Practice
New users may need time to get used to the nib.
2. Needs Maintenance
You must clean it sometimes to keep it working.
3. Risk of Smudging
Left-handed users may smudge ink. The wet ink takes time to dry.
4. Paper Compatibility
Ink may bleed through thin or low-quality paper.
5. No Digital Features
You must type or scan notes if you want them on your device.
FAQs
What makes the Neo Smartpen N2 different from a regular stylus?
The Neo Smartpen N2 is not a stylus—it is a true digital pen. Unlike styluses that require a touchscreen to function, the N2 writes on special paper using real ink while simultaneously capturing your handwriting digitally. It uses an internal camera and motion sensor to track your writing and send it to your smartphone or tablet via Bluetooth. This allows users to write naturally on paper while also storing their notes in digital form, offering the convenience of analog writing with the benefits of digital storage and sharing.
Can I use any paper with the Neo Smartpen N2?
No, the Neo Smartpen N2 requires Ncoded paper, which contains a barely visible dot pattern that helps the pen’s built-in camera accurately track strokes and positions. This is essential for the pen to correctly interpret and digitize your writing. While this may seem limiting, a wide variety of Ncoded notebooks, planners, and sticky notes are available for purchase, and you can also print your own Ncoded paper if you have a supported printer.
How long does the Neo Smartpen N2 battery last?
The battery life of the Neo Smartpen N2 varies based on usage, but on average, it supports up to 5 hours of continuous writing on a full charge. For casual note-taking throughout the day, this typically means you’ll only need to charge the pen every few days. It charges via micro USB and can reach a full charge in about two hours. Its offline storage feature allows you to continue writing even if the pen isn’t connected to your device, syncing automatically later.
Is the Lamy Safari suitable for beginners?
Yes, the Lamy Safari is an excellent choice for beginners. Its ergonomic grip section encourages correct finger placement, making it easier to write comfortably, even during long writing sessions. The pen’s balanced weight and smooth ink flow help reduce hand fatigue, especially for those new to using fountain pens. Plus, the interchangeable nibs and variety of ink options allow users to personalize their writing experience without a steep learning curve.
What are the main differences between writing with a fountain pen and a digital pen?
Writing with a fountain pen like the Lamy Safari offers a tactile, expressive experience. Ink flow, paper texture, and pressure combine to create strokes with character and individuality. A digital pen like the Neo Smartpen N2 focuses on utility and integration—it records your notes electronically, allowing for easy editing, searching, and sharing. While fountain pens emphasize style and tradition, smartpens prioritize functionality and productivity in digital workflows.
Do smartpens like the Neo N2 work for artists or designers?
The Neo Smartpen N2 is mainly built for note-taking and simple sketches, not detailed artistic work. While it does digitize handwritten content accurately, it lacks pressure sensitivity and brush variation needed for professional digital art. Artists looking for precision and creative flexibility may prefer drawing tablets or styluses designed for creative apps. However, for rough drafts or outlining ideas on paper, the N2 can still be a helpful companion.
Is the Lamy Safari messy to use?
Generally, no—the Lamy Safari is clean and simple to use, especially when using ink cartridges. Occasional ink smudging or leakage can occur, especially when using bottled ink or if the pen isn’t cleaned regularly. However, with proper care and the right paper, the Safari delivers a clean writing experience. Left-handed users should be aware that drying times may affect smudging, especially with wetter inks.
Can I digitize my Lamy Safari notes?
Yes, but not directly. The Lamy Safari doesn’t have built-in digital features. To digitize notes, you’ll need to scan them or use an app like Microsoft Lens or Adobe Scan. Alternatively, combining the Lamy Safari with a smart notebook or special paper like Rocketbook’s can help bridge the gap between analog and digital. Still, this process is more manual compared to the seamless real-time syncing provided by smartpens like the Neo N2.
Conclusion
The Neo Smartpen N2 and the Lamy Safari serve different purposes. One fits the digital age. The other keeps writing simple.
Choose the Neo Smartpen N2 if:
- You want to save notes to your phone or cloud.
- You prefer writing by hand but want digital access.
- You do not mind using special paper or charging the pen.
Choose the Lamy Safari if:
- You like the feel of a real fountain pen.
- You want a reliable and low-cost pen.
- You don’t need to save notes to digital devices.
Final Tip: Think about how you write. If you need speed and digital backup, choose the Neo Smartpen N2. If you enjoy classic writing and don’t need tech, choose the Lamy Safari.
Want to see the Neo Smartpen N2 in action? Watch this video for a quick demo.
Both pens are good. Pick the one that fits your daily use best.