SHOPSTORY BUYING GUIDE
Marker Types Explained: Permanent, Whiteboard, Highlighter and Brush Pens
Understand the practical differences between permanent markers, whiteboard markers, highlighters and brush pens before choosing one.
5 minute read
Updated 28 September 2026
Reviewed by ShopStory
THE SHORT ANSWER
Choose by surface and purpose: permanent markers for durable marks on compatible non-porous surfaces, whiteboard markers for erasable writing on suitable boards, highlighters for translucent emphasis on paper, and brush pens for expressive strokes. Always check the product label and test an inconspicuous area first.
At a glance
Type
Designed for
Important check
Permanent marker
Durable labelling and marking
Surface compatibility and ventilation
Whiteboard marker
Dry-erase boards
Board must be non-porous and suitable
Highlighter
Emphasising printed or handwritten text
Ink below should be dry
Brush pen
Lettering, colouring and variable-width strokes
Tip flexibility and paper bleed-through
Start with the surface
A marker that works well on one surface may stain, feather or wipe away on another. Confirm whether you are writing on paper, a dry-erase board, plastic, glass, metal or card, then use a marker specifically labelled for that surface.
Permanent and whiteboard markers are not interchangeable
Permanent-marker ink is intended to resist easy removal, while whiteboard-marker ink is formulated to wipe from suitable dry-erase surfaces. Using the wrong marker can leave a difficult stain, so keep the barrels clearly separated.
•
Recap markers immediately after use
•
Use permanent markers in a ventilated area
•
Follow the manufacturer’s safety and surface instructions
Highlighters work best over dry ink
Highlighters use translucent colour so text remains readable. Let freshly written ink dry before highlighting and test delicate printing because some inks can smear. Broad chisel tips suit full lines, while a finer edge helps with precise emphasis.
Brush pens depend on tip and paper
A flexible brush tip produces thin and thick strokes as pressure changes. Smooth paper is gentler on the tip; absorbent paper can feather or show ink through the reverse. Beginners should practise light pressure before attempting lettering.
Frequently asked questions
Can a whiteboard marker be used on glass?
Some can, but performance varies. Use it only when the product names glass as a compatible surface and test a small area first.
Why does a marker dry out?
Leaving the cap loose allows the solvent or water in the ink to evaporate. Recap it promptly and store it according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Will a highlighter smudge gel ink?
It can if the gel ink is still wet or is reactivated by the highlighter. Allow the writing to dry and test before marking important notes.
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