You don't need an expensive pen to enjoy fountain pens. You need one that fits your hand, your paper and how you write.
1Pick the nib size for your handwriting
Fine or extra-fine suits small writing and cheaper paper. Medium is smoother and shows more ink colour. European sizes run a step wider than Japanese ones.
2Start with steel
A steel nib is durable, consistent and easy to replace. Gold nibs feel softer, but they are not required for a good first pen.
3Choose cartridges or a converter
Cartridges are the least messy start. A converter lets you use bottled ink, which gives you far more colours. Many pens take both.
4Check size, weight and grip
A pen that is too thin or too heavy tires your hand. Look at the length capped and uncapped, the weight and the grip shape.
5Plan for easy cleaning
Pens that come apart simply and flush with water are easier to live with. Start with a well-behaved, easy-cleaning ink.