A ballpoint pen is a modern writing instrument that uses a metal sphere tip that rolls the ink onto paper when pressure is applied. The ink often dries immediately after contact. Ballpoint pens can come in all shapes and forms, but often have the same mechanics from model to model. They can have a metal or plastic body and in some occasions, wood as well. When the ink runs out, it is easy to refill the pen. It is less messy than a fountain pen and has better control to do everyday writing and drawing. Fine ballpoint pens utilize higher quality designs and finer materials to provide a more professional and decorative look. They often are priced higher because the materials used to craft them.