Biros

Biros are ballpoint pens, a common writing instrument named after László Bíró, the Hungarian journalist who, with his brother György, developed and patented the design in 1938. The key feature is a small rolling ball at the tip that transfers viscous oil-based ink from a sealed reservoir to paper as the pen is moved. The invention aimed to combine the steady ink supply of fountain pens with the low maintenance of a disposable cartridge.

Inside the tip, a ball sits in a socket and, as it rolls, picks up ink from the reservoir and deposits it on the page. The ink is formulated to flow smoothly at writing speeds while resisting leaks. Pen bodies are typically plastic or metal and may be either retractable or capped to protect the tip and prevent ink evaporation. Many biros use replaceable ink cartridges, while others are designed for full disposability.

The term biro is widely used in several English-speaking countries to refer to ballpoint pens, though it is also associated with specific brands. The first commercial biros appeared in the United Kingdom during the 1940s, and production and distribution expanded globally in the following decades. Over time, numerous manufacturers produced variants with different tip designs, plastics, and ink formulations.

Variants and considerations: there are disposable ballpoints and refillable models, and some designs are retractable for convenience. While the basic concept remains the same, ink chemistry and tip tolerances have advanced, improving write quality and reliability. Biros are favored for everyday writing in schools, offices, and homes due to their low cost, durability, and broad availability, though alternative inks such as gel or rollerball may be preferred for certain writing styles.