Pencils are still considered one of the most common school supplies. We all must have used either of the two pencils or both in our childhood. Mechanical pencils are extremely popular over wooden pencils and are considered to be the most used type of pencils today.
Both mechanical pencils and wooden pencils come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Therefore it’s important to know the difference between the two pencils, in order to select the right one for you.
But, before jumping to their points of difference, let’s get an overview of what a mechanical pencil is, as well as what a wooden pencil is.
What is a Mechanical Pencil
Mechanical pencil consists of a lead mechanism that pushes the lead forward so that you can write. Mechanical pencils have a metal or plastic body and a replaceable graphite core. These pencils are also known as “automatic pencils” or “clicky pencils”.
The main advantage of mechanical pencils is that they’re less likely to break. The metal or plastic body can take a lot of abuse, and the graphite core can be replaced when it wears down.
The main disadvantage of mechanical pencils is that they’re more difficult to sharpen. You’ll need a special sharpener designed for mechanical pencils, or you’ll need to replace the entire lead. Mechanical pencils also tend to be less comfortable to hold.
What is a Wooden Pencil
The classic pencil is made of wood, with a graphite core. Wooden pencils are easy to find and relatively inexpensive. They come in a wide variety of sizes, from standard pencils to jumbo pencils. Wooden pencils are also available in a wide range of colors and styles.
The main advantage of wooden pencils is that they’re easy to sharpen. You can use a pencil sharpener to get a nice, sharp point on your pencil. Wooden pencils also have a nice, natural feel.
The main disadvantage of wooden pencils is that they’re easy to break. The wood can split or the graphite core can break if you apply too much pressure. Wooden pencils also need to be sharpened more often.
Which is better?
Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between mechanical pencils and wooden pencils:
Convenience
Mechanical pencils are more comfortable to hold because they have a smooth, cylindrical shape. As you are supposed to insert a lead in the pencil to write, it gives an even flow of writing, irrespective of how much you write.
However, wooden pencils are a bit less convenient. This is because when a wood-cased pencil is freshly sharpened, it writes a very thin line. As soon as you’ve written a bit, the line gets thicker and thicker. With a mechanical pencil, the line says the same, so it’s a more predictable tool.
Durability
Considering the durability of the pencil is important if you’re looking for a pencil that will last long. Mechanical pencils are more durable than wooden pencils because they have a metal or plastic body.
The life of a wooden pencil is very short compared to a mechanical pencil. The mechanical pencil can be used multiple times by just inserting leads in it, as and when they get empty. Whereas, the wooden pencil can be used only a few times (until it gets extremely short).
Performance
Mechanical pencils have a replaceable graphite core, so they can be used for a long time. These pencils have a good performance level as they provide an even and smooth writing texture, no matter how much you write.
Wooden pencils need to be sharpened more often. This reduces their performance as the lines tend to get darker and thicker as you keep on writing. This makes your writing look less even and more congested.
Comfort
Mechanical pencils are easier to use because you don’t have to apply as much pressure. You can just keep on writing and refilling the leads in your mechanical pencil, without worrying of the tip becoming blunt.
Wooden pencils are also easy to use because you don’t have to worry about the tip breaking often. The tip of a wooden pencil is stronger than the mechanical pencil and provides comfort in writing.
Varieties & Features
You can find mechanical pencils in a wide range of lead sizes such as 0.3. 0.5, 0.7 and 0.9. These pencils are available in any color, pattern and design of your choice. Some mechanical pencils also come with inbuilt erasers in them.
Wooden pencils are also available in a wide range of colors and styles. Different types of wood are used in making wooden pencils to give different finishes such as matte, glossy, or natural. Colorful wood pencils are widely preferred for coloring and artistic purposes, whereas plain wooden pencils are most preferred for sketching purposes.
Price
Mechanical pencils are more expensive than wooden pencils, as they tend to have a longer life span. You don’t have to keep purchasing a mechanical pencil again and again. However, you will need to keep purchasing the leads for the mechanical pencil to keep working.
Wooden pencils are extremely inexpensive as they tend to have a shorter life span. However, you will need to keep purchasing a wooden pencil again and again, which is affordable compared to a mechanical pencil.
Eco-Friendly
Both mechanical pencils and wooden pencils are not eco-friendly in nature. The wooden pencil requires trees to be cut down, in order to be made. Whereas, the leads of mechanical pencils come packaged in plastic boxes, which is again not an environmentally friendly option.
Final Thoughts
So, which type of pencil is better? It depends on your needs. If you’re looking for a durable pencil that will last a long time, go with a mechanical pencil. If you’re looking for a classic pencil that’s easy to sharpen, go with a wooden pencil.
It’s essential to choose the right type of pencil for your needs. If you don’t want to hustle store to store physically. There are lots of online stationery stores that can provide you with a wide range of options for both mechanical as well as wooden pencils.
Santosh Kumar is a Professional SEO and Blogger, With the help of this blog he is trying to share top 10 lists, facts, entertainment news from India and all around the world.