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1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 158 (from laksa120)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa158.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2021/08/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1/\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2021/08/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1/\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2021\/08\/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1\/","crawl_time":1776201100,"first_indexed_time":1630337022,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"com,wellappointeddesk!www,\/2021\/08\/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1\/ s443","src_root_hash":"17786964525793829758","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Multi Pen Review: Multi Madness, Part 1 – The Well-Appointed Desk","meta_descriptions":["Review by Tina Koyama Ana is not the only one who has a thing for multi pens! I’ve acquired more than my share over the years. For this review, I picked out a few with unique or noteworthy features: The Pilot Hi-Tec C Coleto 1000 ($13.50 for body; $4.50 for eraser component; $3 for graphite…"],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"Review by Tina Koyama\nAna is not the only one who has a thing for multi pens\n! I’ve acquired more than my share over the years. For this review, I picked out a few with unique or noteworthy features:\nThe Pilot Hi-Tec C Coleto 1000\n($13.50 for body; $4.50 for eraser component; $3 for graphite component; $1.80 for gel pen component), the\nPilot Acroball Spotlighter 3 Color Ballpoint Pen + Highlighter\n($9.75), and the\nUni Color 3 Multi Mechanical Pencil\n($8.25). (In Part 2, I’ll compare several other multi pens with more conventional ink\/graphite components.)\nThe Pilot Hi-Tech C Coleto, the only customizable multi pen in this review, is nearly mind-boggling in its potential versatility. I was kind of scared to look through all the possibilities – 72 gel pen, pencil and eraser components compatible with its four available slots! (Don’t even get me started on the\nUni Style Fit Meister\n, which has 214 components!) I stayed up a little too late choosing my refills (\nviolet\nand\ngreen\n0.5mm gel,\n0.5 mm pencil\nand\neraser\n). The body is a smooth, metallic-colored plastic with a shape that’s comfortable to hold, although the surface can be a bit slippery.\nThe refills are easy to place into the body. The hinged top flips open, and a component slides into each chamber. (It’s only tricky if you try to put one in backwards as I did! The tab must face out.) It’s fascinating to see all the hingey, springy parts on the components that make the multi pen operate smoothly. The selector tabs push down flawlessly and stay engaged in use until released by slightly pushing another tab. The larger tabs on the eraser and pencil units enable easy loading of additional eraser or lead by pushing repeatedly.\nOne reason I chose the Coleto is for its eraser unit. While most multi pens with a pencil unit include a refillable eraser at the top, the Coleto is the only one I found with a conveniently retractable eraser – and it’s just about the same diameter as my\nfavorite Tombow Mono Zero\n. Although it doesn’t erase quite as well as the Zero, it’s still a very good eraser. I like that the eraser itself is\nrefillable\n. Similarly, the mechanical pencil unit can be refilled with any 0.5 mm leads. The gel pen units are competent and come in oodles of colors. My only wish is that they were available in 0.7 mm, my favorite writing size. (All scribble swatches made in a\nCol-o-Ring Oversize\nnotebook.)\nAnother Pilot, the Acroball Spotliter is unique in a different way: In addition to three 0.7mm ballpoint pen units (black, blue and red inks), this multi pen comes with a highlighter in either pink or yellow at the top. I was pleased that it came with 0.7mm ballpoints, and the ink doesn’t smear when highlighted. The\nhighlighter\ncan be refilled along with the ink units.\nI like the grippy rubberized body, which is comfortable to hold and use. It’s fun to look through the translucent barrel and watch the inner mechanism move when a color is selected. (I admit, one reason I love multi pens is being able to see their intricate mechanical parts.)\nI have some quibbles, however. To select an ink color, the barrel must be twisted, and a small colored line indicates which color you have chosen (a ring on the pen tip also indicates the ink color). However, the barrel goes only so far, and then it must be reversed. When I get to the stopping point, I always want to keep going in the same direction. My preference is retractable tabs as on the Coleto.\nA second quibble is the cap over the highlighter. Intuitively, I want to pull off the cap, but when I do, the whole highlighter unit comes off, revealing the chamber for refilling the pen components. To open the highlighter, the cap must be\ntwisted\noff. Maybe from a lifetime of pulling caps off highlighters, this twisting motion is not at all intuitive to me.\nThe third multi pen in this review is not a pen at all – it’s the Uni Color 3 multi pencil. It comes with 0.5 mm\nUni NanoDia Color Erasable leads\nin red, blue and orange. When the top cap is removed, a refillable eraser is revealed. The translucent barrel makes it easy to see which color is being selected.\nI didn’t have high expectations of coloring with these leads, but I made a valiant effort at sketching a peach anyway (I used a smooth\nStillman & Birn Epsilon\nsketchbook). Although all three colors are pale by colored pencil standards, the orange is especially light. Adequate for writing, the red and blue would be a handy alternative to a woodcased bicolor pencil. All three colors do erase well with the attached eraser.\nOf the three (and of most multi pens I’ve tried), the Uni’s body feels the least sturdy. Although the sliding selector mechanisms are smooth, they feel bouncy instead of secure when pushed. Although a fully detachable cap over the eraser seems standard for multi pens and pencils, I wish more could be hinged like the Coleto’s. I’m certain that I’ll lose that tiny cap.\nThe Uni 3 is one of few multi mechanical pencils I know of. Since the components will accommodate any 0.5 mm leads, here’s what I might do: Fill the three units with H, 2B and 4B graphite leads (\nPentel Ain Stein\nand\nPilot Neox\nare some good ones). That would make the Uni 3 a handy and compact writing\/drawing multi – and with a decent eraser, too.\nTina Koyama is an urban sketcher in Seattle. Her blog is\nFueled by Clouds & Coffee\n, and you can follow her on\nInstagram as Miatagrrl\n.","attrs_markdown":"Menu\n\nSearch\n\n- [About Us](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/about\/)\n  submenu\n  - [About Us](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/about\/)\n  - [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/about\/privacy-policy\/)\n- [Shop](http:\/\/wellappointeddesk.bigcartel.com\/)\n- [Link Love](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/category\/link-love\/)\n- [Fashionable Friday](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/category\/fashionable-friday-2\/)\n- [Reviews](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/?s=reviews)\n  submenu\n  - [Ink Review](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/category\/ink-review\/)\n  - [Fountain Pen Review](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/category\/pen-review\/fountain-pen-review\/)\n  - [Paper Review](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/category\/paper-review\/)\n- [Pen Show Schedule](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/pen-show-schedule\/)\n- [Pen Pals](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/links-2\/)\n- [Guides](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/?s=guides)\n  submenu\n  - [Top Ten Lists](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/tag\/top-ten\/)\n  - [The Refill Guide](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2014\/06\/the-epic-refill-reference-guide-rollerball-gel-and-ballpoints\/)\n  - [Guide Sheets](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2014\/05\/turn-a-blank-notebook-into-a-lined-notebook\/)\n  - [Gift Guides](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/tag\/gift-guide\/)\n  - [Inky Ears: Pen-Related Podcasts](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/inky-ears-pen-related-podcasts\/)\n\n[![The Well-Appointed Desk](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2017\/01\/wad-banner-white.png?fit=557%2C200&ssl=1)](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/)\n\n[The Well-Appointed Desk](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/)\n\nFor the love of pens, paper, office supplies and a beautiful place to work\n\nIn [Pen Review](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/category\/pen-review\/), [Pencil Review](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/category\/pencil-review\/)\n\n# Multi Pen Review: Multi Madness, Part 1\nPosted on\n\n[August 30, 2021August 24, 2021](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2021\/08\/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1\/)\n\n[1 Comment](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2021\/08\/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1\/#comments)\n\n*Review by Tina Koyama*\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/1-bouquet-of-3-multi-pens.jpg?resize=1000%2C1512&ssl=1)\n\n[Ana is not the only one who has a thing for multi pens](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2020\/11\/more-multipens\/)! I’ve acquired more than my share over the years. For this review, I picked out a few with unique or noteworthy features: [The Pilot Hi-Tec C Coleto 1000](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-1000-4-Color-Multi-Pen-Body-Component-Blue\/pd\/24122) (\\$13.50 for body; \\$4.50 for eraser component; \\$3 for graphite component; \\$1.80 for gel pen component), the [Pilot Acroball Spotlighter 3 Color Ballpoint Pen + Highlighter](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Acroball-Spotliter-3-Color-0.7-mm-Ballpoint-Multi-Pen-Highlighter-Blue-Body-Pink-Highlighter\/pd\/31343) (\\$9.75), and the [Uni Color 3 Multi Mechanical Pencil](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Uni-Color-3-Erasable-Multi-Mechanical-Pencil-0.5-mm-Cherry-Pink\/pd\/24569) (\\$8.25). (In Part 2, I’ll compare several other multi pens with more conventional ink\/graphite components.)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/2-3-multi-pens.jpg?resize=1000%2C592&ssl=1)\n\nThe Pilot Hi-Tech C Coleto, the only customizable multi pen in this review, is nearly mind-boggling in its potential versatility. I was kind of scared to look through all the possibilities – 72 gel pen, pencil and eraser components compatible with its four available slots! (Don’t even get me started on the [Uni Style Fit Meister](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Uni-Style-Fit-Meister-5-Color-Multi-Pen-Body-Component-Black\/pd\/7301\/refills), which has 214 components!) I stayed up a little too late choosing my refills ([violet](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Gel-Multi-Pen-Refill-0.5-mm-Violet\/pd\/1908) and [green](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Gel-Multi-Pen-Refill-0.5-mm-Green\/pd\/1904) 0.5mm gel, [0\\.5 mm pencil](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Multi-Pen-0.5-mm-Mechanical-Pencil-Component\/pd\/5083) and [eraser](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Multi-Pen-Eraser-Component\/pd\/6636)). The body is a smooth, metallic-colored plastic with a shape that’s comfortable to hold, although the surface can be a bit slippery.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/3-Hi-Tec-C-top.jpg?resize=1000%2C1397&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/4-Hi-Tec-C-pen-point.jpg?resize=1000%2C1303&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/5-Hi-Tec-C-pencil-point.jpg?resize=1000%2C1524&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/6-Hi-Tec-C-eraser.jpg?resize=1000%2C1531&ssl=1)\n\nThe refills are easy to place into the body. The hinged top flips open, and a component slides into each chamber. (It’s only tricky if you try to put one in backwards as I did! The tab must face out.) It’s fascinating to see all the hingey, springy parts on the components that make the multi pen operate smoothly. The selector tabs push down flawlessly and stay engaged in use until released by slightly pushing another tab. The larger tabs on the eraser and pencil units enable easy loading of additional eraser or lead by pushing repeatedly.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/7-Hi-Tec-C-top-open.jpg?resize=1000%2C1148&ssl=1)\n\nOne reason I chose the Coleto is for its eraser unit. While most multi pens with a pencil unit include a refillable eraser at the top, the Coleto is the only one I found with a conveniently retractable eraser – and it’s just about the same diameter as my [favorite Tombow Mono Zero](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Tombow-Mono-Zero-Eraser-2.3-mm-Circle-Silver-Body\/pd\/1747). Although it doesn’t erase quite as well as the Zero, it’s still a very good eraser. I like that the eraser itself is [refillable](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Multi-Pen-Eraser-Refill-Pack-of-2\/pd\/6637). Similarly, the mechanical pencil unit can be refilled with any 0.5 mm leads. The gel pen units are competent and come in oodles of colors. My only wish is that they were available in 0.7 mm, my favorite writing size. (All scribble swatches made in a [Col-o-Ring Oversize](https:\/\/wellappointeddesk.bigcartel.com\/product\/col-o-ring-oversize) notebook.)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/8-Hi-Tec-C-scribble-tests-and-pen-scaled.jpg?resize=1140%2C408&ssl=1)\n\nAnother Pilot, the Acroball Spotliter is unique in a different way: In addition to three 0.7mm ballpoint pen units (black, blue and red inks), this multi pen comes with a highlighter in either pink or yellow at the top. I was pleased that it came with 0.7mm ballpoints, and the ink doesn’t smear when highlighted. The [highlighter](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Acroball-Spotliter-Highlighter-Cartridge-Pink\/pd\/31346) can be refilled along with the ink units.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/9-Acroball-highlighter-tip.jpg?resize=1000%2C1196&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/10-Acroball-pen-point-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C1557&ssl=1)\n\nI like the grippy rubberized body, which is comfortable to hold and use. It’s fun to look through the translucent barrel and watch the inner mechanism move when a color is selected. (I admit, one reason I love multi pens is being able to see their intricate mechanical parts.)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/11-Acroball-rotating-barrel.jpg?resize=1000%2C1396&ssl=1)\n\nI have some quibbles, however. To select an ink color, the barrel must be twisted, and a small colored line indicates which color you have chosen (a ring on the pen tip also indicates the ink color). However, the barrel goes only so far, and then it must be reversed. When I get to the stopping point, I always want to keep going in the same direction. My preference is retractable tabs as on the Coleto.\n\nA second quibble is the cap over the highlighter. Intuitively, I want to pull off the cap, but when I do, the whole highlighter unit comes off, revealing the chamber for refilling the pen components. To open the highlighter, the cap must be *twisted* off. Maybe from a lifetime of pulling caps off highlighters, this twisting motion is not at all intuitive to me.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/12-Acroball-top-removed.jpg?resize=1000%2C1701&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/13-Acroball-scribble-tests-and-pen.jpg?resize=1000%2C376&ssl=1)\n\nThe third multi pen in this review is not a pen at all – it’s the Uni Color 3 multi pencil. It comes with 0.5 mm [Uni NanoDia Color Erasable leads](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Uni-Color-3-Erasable-Multi-Mechanical-Pencil-0.5-mm-Cherry-Pink\/pd\/24569\/refills) in red, blue and orange. When the top cap is removed, a refillable eraser is revealed. The translucent barrel makes it easy to see which color is being selected.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/16-Uni-Color-3-pencil-point-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C2000&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/15-Uni-Color-3-pencil-point-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C1594&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/14-Uni-Color-3-top.jpg?resize=1000%2C1399&ssl=1)\n\nI didn’t have high expectations of coloring with these leads, but I made a valiant effort at sketching a peach anyway (I used a smooth [Stillman & Birn Epsilon](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Stillman-Birn-Epsilon-Sketchbook-Softcover-5.5-x-8.5\/pd\/18732) sketchbook). Although all three colors are pale by colored pencil standards, the orange is especially light. Adequate for writing, the red and blue would be a handy alternative to a woodcased bicolor pencil. All three colors do erase well with the attached eraser.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/17-Uni-Color-3-sketch-with-peach.jpg?resize=1000%2C598&ssl=1)\n\nOf the three (and of most multi pens I’ve tried), the Uni’s body feels the least sturdy. Although the sliding selector mechanisms are smooth, they feel bouncy instead of secure when pushed. Although a fully detachable cap over the eraser seems standard for multi pens and pencils, I wish more could be hinged like the Coleto’s. I’m certain that I’ll lose that tiny cap.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/18-Uni-Color-3-cap-removed.jpg?resize=1000%2C1330&ssl=1)\n\nThe Uni 3 is one of few multi mechanical pencils I know of. Since the components will accommodate any 0.5 mm leads, here’s what I might do: Fill the three units with H, 2B and 4B graphite leads ([Pentel Ain Stein](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pentel-Ain-Stein-Lead\/ct\/2588) and [Pilot Neox](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Neox-Graphite-Lead\/ct\/2635) are some good ones). That would make the Uni 3 a handy and compact writing\/drawing multi – and with a decent eraser, too.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/19-Uni-Color-3-scribble-tests-and-pen.jpg?resize=1000%2C397&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/20-Uni-Color-3-sketch-in-Epsilon.jpg?resize=1000%2C588&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/21-scan-of-scribble-tests.jpg?resize=1000%2C766&ssl=1)\n***\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Tina-Koyama.jpg?resize=154%2C205&ssl=1)Tina Koyama is an urban sketcher in Seattle. Her blog is [Fueled by Clouds & Coffee](http:\/\/tina-koyama.blogspot.com\/), and you can follow her on [Instagram as Miatagrrl](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/miatagrrl\/).\n\n### Share via:\n- [Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2021\/08\/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1\/?share=twitter&nb=1)\n- [Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2021\/08\/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1\/?share=facebook&nb=1)\n- [Share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2021\/08\/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1\/?share=linkedin&nb=1)\n- [Share on Tumblr (Opens in new window) Tumblr](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2021\/08\/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1\/?share=tumblr&nb=1)\n- [Share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2021\/08\/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1\/?share=pinterest&nb=1)\n- [Share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2021\/08\/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1\/?share=reddit&nb=1)\n- [Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email](mailto:?subject=%5BShared%20Post%5D%20Multi%20Pen%20Review%3A%20Multi%20Madness%2C%20Part%201&body=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wellappointeddesk.com%2F2021%2F08%2Fmulti-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1%2F&share=email&nb=1)\n\n### Like this:\nLike Loading...\n\n### *You might also enjoy:*\n[![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/11\/IMG_1815.jpg?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1)](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2014\/12\/review-pentel-i-3-multi-pen\/ \"Review: Pentel i+ 3 Multi-Pen\")\n\n#### [Review: Pentel i+ 3 Multi-Pen](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2014\/12\/review-pentel-i-3-multi-pen\/ \"Review: Pentel i+ 3 Multi-Pen\")\nI've got a soft spot for multi-pens. Especially Japanese gel multi-pens. While the Pilot Hi-Tec C multi-pens are often the most talked-about, followed by the Uni Style Fit line, I still find a little space in my multi-pen universe for Pentel and their Sliccie line of gel pens. The individual…\n\n[![](https:\/\/wellapptdesk.files.wordpress.com\/2012\/08\/33413.jpg?w=350&h=200&crop=1)](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2012\/08\/bright-ideas-in-highlighters\/ \"Bright Ideas in Highlighters\")\n\n#### [Bright Ideas in Highlighters](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2012\/08\/bright-ideas-in-highlighters\/ \"Bright Ideas in Highlighters\")\nThere's more options in highlighters than what you can find in the aisles of your local big box office supply store so I thought I'd round-up some more unusual highlighter options available. The refillable highlighter: If I have a choice, I'd rather not throw away pens if I can get…\n\n[![I absolutely love perpetual calendars and Oh, Hello Friend has a fabulous collection.](https:\/\/wellapptdesk.files.wordpress.com\/2013\/07\/687474703a2f2f693330352e70686f746f6275636b65742e636f6d2f616c62756d732f6e6e3230362f6f6868656c6c6f667269656e642f706572736f6e616c2f6f7572686f6d652f6f6666696365345f7a707361353533386564612e6a.jpg?w=350&h=200&crop=1)](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2013\/07\/link-love-minding-the-ps-and-qs\/ \"Link Love: Minding the Ps and Qs\")\n\n#### [Link Love: Minding the Ps and Qs](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2013\/07\/link-love-minding-the-ps-and-qs\/ \"Link Love: Minding the Ps and Qs\")\nPens and Pencils: Lamy Noto Ballpoint Pen Review (via Clicky Post) How to refill a Coleto Mechanical Pencil component (via East, West, Everywhere) Schneider Xtra 805 0.5 Black and Red Pen Review (via Economy Pens) Kaweco AL Sport Fountain Pen Review (via Clicky Post) Retractable Eraser Review: Sanford SpeedErase vs.…\n\nTags: [highlighter](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/tag\/highlighter\/), [multipen](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/tag\/multipen\/), [pencil](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/tag\/pencil\/)\n\nShare:[Twitter](https:\/\/twitter.com\/intent\/tweet?text=Multi+Pen+Review%3A+Multi+Madness%2C+Part+1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wellappointeddesk.com%2F2021%2F08%2Fmulti-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1%2F)[Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/sharer\/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wellappointeddesk.com%2F2021%2F08%2Fmulti-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1%2F)[Google+](https:\/\/plus.google.com\/share?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wellappointeddesk.com%2F2021%2F08%2Fmulti-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1%2F)\n\n## Written by [Laura Cameron](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/author\/laura\/)\n[Website](https:\/\/thecornerofknitandtea.com\/)\n\n## Post navigation\n[Previous Post](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2021\/08\/pencil-review-musgrave-heritage-collection-pencil-set\/)\n\n[Next Post](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2021\/08\/fountain-pen-ink-review-taccia-hokusai-sabimidori\/)\n\n## 1 comment\n1. **LateToTheParty** says:\n   \n   [November 15, 2022 at 8:36 pm](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/2021\/08\/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1\/#comment-200719)\n   \n   Can you use the Tombow mono zero 2.3mm refill as substitute to the Coleto eraser refill?\n\nComments are closed.\n\n![](https:\/\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/07\/cropped-WAD-pen-avatar1.png)\n\nFor the love of pens, paper, ink and a beautiful place to work.\n***\n## Our Lovely Sponsors\n[![JetPens 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I’ve acquired more than my share over the years. For this review, I picked out a few with unique or noteworthy features: [The Pilot Hi-Tec C Coleto 1000](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-1000-4-Color-Multi-Pen-Body-Component-Blue\/pd\/24122) (\\$13.50 for body; \\$4.50 for eraser component; \\$3 for graphite component; \\$1.80 for gel pen component), the [Pilot Acroball Spotlighter 3 Color Ballpoint Pen + Highlighter](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Acroball-Spotliter-3-Color-0.7-mm-Ballpoint-Multi-Pen-Highlighter-Blue-Body-Pink-Highlighter\/pd\/31343) (\\$9.75), and the [Uni Color 3 Multi Mechanical Pencil](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Uni-Color-3-Erasable-Multi-Mechanical-Pencil-0.5-mm-Cherry-Pink\/pd\/24569) (\\$8.25). (In Part 2, I’ll compare several other multi pens with more conventional ink\/graphite components.)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/2-3-multi-pens.jpg?resize=1000%2C592&ssl=1)\n\nThe Pilot Hi-Tech C Coleto, the only customizable multi pen in this review, is nearly mind-boggling in its potential versatility. I was kind of scared to look through all the possibilities – 72 gel pen, pencil and eraser components compatible with its four available slots! (Don’t even get me started on the [Uni Style Fit Meister](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Uni-Style-Fit-Meister-5-Color-Multi-Pen-Body-Component-Black\/pd\/7301\/refills), which has 214 components!) I stayed up a little too late choosing my refills ([violet](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Gel-Multi-Pen-Refill-0.5-mm-Violet\/pd\/1908) and [green](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Gel-Multi-Pen-Refill-0.5-mm-Green\/pd\/1904) 0.5mm gel, [0\\.5 mm pencil](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Multi-Pen-0.5-mm-Mechanical-Pencil-Component\/pd\/5083) and [eraser](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Multi-Pen-Eraser-Component\/pd\/6636)). The body is a smooth, metallic-colored plastic with a shape that’s comfortable to hold, although the surface can be a bit slippery.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/3-Hi-Tec-C-top.jpg?resize=1000%2C1397&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/4-Hi-Tec-C-pen-point.jpg?resize=1000%2C1303&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/5-Hi-Tec-C-pencil-point.jpg?resize=1000%2C1524&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/6-Hi-Tec-C-eraser.jpg?resize=1000%2C1531&ssl=1)\n\nThe refills are easy to place into the body. The hinged top flips open, and a component slides into each chamber. (It’s only tricky if you try to put one in backwards as I did! The tab must face out.) It’s fascinating to see all the hingey, springy parts on the components that make the multi pen operate smoothly. The selector tabs push down flawlessly and stay engaged in use until released by slightly pushing another tab. The larger tabs on the eraser and pencil units enable easy loading of additional eraser or lead by pushing repeatedly.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/7-Hi-Tec-C-top-open.jpg?resize=1000%2C1148&ssl=1)\n\nOne reason I chose the Coleto is for its eraser unit. While most multi pens with a pencil unit include a refillable eraser at the top, the Coleto is the only one I found with a conveniently retractable eraser – and it’s just about the same diameter as my [favorite Tombow Mono Zero](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Tombow-Mono-Zero-Eraser-2.3-mm-Circle-Silver-Body\/pd\/1747). Although it doesn’t erase quite as well as the Zero, it’s still a very good eraser. I like that the eraser itself is [refillable](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Multi-Pen-Eraser-Refill-Pack-of-2\/pd\/6637). Similarly, the mechanical pencil unit can be refilled with any 0.5 mm leads. The gel pen units are competent and come in oodles of colors. My only wish is that they were available in 0.7 mm, my favorite writing size. (All scribble swatches made in a [Col-o-Ring Oversize](https:\/\/wellappointeddesk.bigcartel.com\/product\/col-o-ring-oversize) notebook.)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/8-Hi-Tec-C-scribble-tests-and-pen-scaled.jpg?resize=1140%2C408&ssl=1)\n\nAnother Pilot, the Acroball Spotliter is unique in a different way: In addition to three 0.7mm ballpoint pen units (black, blue and red inks), this multi pen comes with a highlighter in either pink or yellow at the top. I was pleased that it came with 0.7mm ballpoints, and the ink doesn’t smear when highlighted. The [highlighter](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Acroball-Spotliter-Highlighter-Cartridge-Pink\/pd\/31346) can be refilled along with the ink units.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/9-Acroball-highlighter-tip.jpg?resize=1000%2C1196&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/10-Acroball-pen-point-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C1557&ssl=1)\n\nI like the grippy rubberized body, which is comfortable to hold and use. It’s fun to look through the translucent barrel and watch the inner mechanism move when a color is selected. (I admit, one reason I love multi pens is being able to see their intricate mechanical parts.)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/11-Acroball-rotating-barrel.jpg?resize=1000%2C1396&ssl=1)\n\nI have some quibbles, however. To select an ink color, the barrel must be twisted, and a small colored line indicates which color you have chosen (a ring on the pen tip also indicates the ink color). However, the barrel goes only so far, and then it must be reversed. When I get to the stopping point, I always want to keep going in the same direction. My preference is retractable tabs as on the Coleto.\n\nA second quibble is the cap over the highlighter. Intuitively, I want to pull off the cap, but when I do, the whole highlighter unit comes off, revealing the chamber for refilling the pen components. To open the highlighter, the cap must be *twisted* off. Maybe from a lifetime of pulling caps off highlighters, this twisting motion is not at all intuitive to me.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/12-Acroball-top-removed.jpg?resize=1000%2C1701&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/13-Acroball-scribble-tests-and-pen.jpg?resize=1000%2C376&ssl=1)\n\nThe third multi pen in this review is not a pen at all – it’s the Uni Color 3 multi pencil. It comes with 0.5 mm [Uni NanoDia Color Erasable leads](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Uni-Color-3-Erasable-Multi-Mechanical-Pencil-0.5-mm-Cherry-Pink\/pd\/24569\/refills) in red, blue and orange. When the top cap is removed, a refillable eraser is revealed. The translucent barrel makes it easy to see which color is being selected.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/16-Uni-Color-3-pencil-point-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C2000&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/15-Uni-Color-3-pencil-point-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C1594&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/14-Uni-Color-3-top.jpg?resize=1000%2C1399&ssl=1)\n\nI didn’t have high expectations of coloring with these leads, but I made a valiant effort at sketching a peach anyway (I used a smooth [Stillman & Birn Epsilon](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Stillman-Birn-Epsilon-Sketchbook-Softcover-5.5-x-8.5\/pd\/18732) sketchbook). Although all three colors are pale by colored pencil standards, the orange is especially light. Adequate for writing, the red and blue would be a handy alternative to a woodcased bicolor pencil. All three colors do erase well with the attached eraser.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/17-Uni-Color-3-sketch-with-peach.jpg?resize=1000%2C598&ssl=1)\n\nOf the three (and of most multi pens I’ve tried), the Uni’s body feels the least sturdy. Although the sliding selector mechanisms are smooth, they feel bouncy instead of secure when pushed. Although a fully detachable cap over the eraser seems standard for multi pens and pencils, I wish more could be hinged like the Coleto’s. I’m certain that I’ll lose that tiny cap.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/18-Uni-Color-3-cap-removed.jpg?resize=1000%2C1330&ssl=1)\n\nThe Uni 3 is one of few multi mechanical pencils I know of. Since the components will accommodate any 0.5 mm leads, here’s what I might do: Fill the three units with H, 2B and 4B graphite leads ([Pentel Ain Stein](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pentel-Ain-Stein-Lead\/ct\/2588) and [Pilot Neox](https:\/\/www.jetpens.com\/Pilot-Neox-Graphite-Lead\/ct\/2635) are some good ones). That would make the Uni 3 a handy and compact writing\/drawing multi – and with a decent eraser, too.\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/19-Uni-Color-3-scribble-tests-and-pen.jpg?resize=1000%2C397&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/20-Uni-Color-3-sketch-in-Epsilon.jpg?resize=1000%2C588&ssl=1)\n\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/08\/21-scan-of-scribble-tests.jpg?resize=1000%2C766&ssl=1)\n***\n![](https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/www.wellappointeddesk.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/11\/Tina-Koyama.jpg?resize=154%2C205&ssl=1)Tina Koyama is an urban sketcher in Seattle. Her blog is [Fueled by Clouds & Coffee](http:\/\/tina-koyama.blogspot.com\/), and you can follow her on [Instagram as Miatagrrl](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/miatagrrl\/).","meta_canonical":null}

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Meta Description	Review by Tina Koyama Ana is not the only one who has a thing for multi pens! I’ve acquired more than my share over the years. For this review, I picked out a few with unique or noteworthy features: The Pilot Hi-Tec C Coleto 1000 ($13.50 for body; $4.50 for eraser component; $3 for graphite…
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Boilerpipe Text	Review by Tina Koyama Ana is not the only one who has a thing for multi pens ! I’ve acquired more than my share over the years. For this review, I picked out a few with unique or noteworthy features: The Pilot Hi-Tec C Coleto 1000 ($13.50 for body; $4.50 for eraser component; $3 for graphite component; $1.80 for gel pen component), the Pilot Acroball Spotlighter 3 Color Ballpoint Pen + Highlighter ($9.75), and the Uni Color 3 Multi Mechanical Pencil ($8.25). (In Part 2, I’ll compare several other multi pens with more conventional ink/graphite components.) The Pilot Hi-Tech C Coleto, the only customizable multi pen in this review, is nearly mind-boggling in its potential versatility. I was kind of scared to look through all the possibilities – 72 gel pen, pencil and eraser components compatible with its four available slots! (Don’t even get me started on the Uni Style Fit Meister , which has 214 components!) I stayed up a little too late choosing my refills ( violet and green 0.5mm gel, 0.5 mm pencil and eraser ). The body is a smooth, metallic-colored plastic with a shape that’s comfortable to hold, although the surface can be a bit slippery. The refills are easy to place into the body. The hinged top flips open, and a component slides into each chamber. (It’s only tricky if you try to put one in backwards as I did! The tab must face out.) It’s fascinating to see all the hingey, springy parts on the components that make the multi pen operate smoothly. The selector tabs push down flawlessly and stay engaged in use until released by slightly pushing another tab. The larger tabs on the eraser and pencil units enable easy loading of additional eraser or lead by pushing repeatedly. One reason I chose the Coleto is for its eraser unit. While most multi pens with a pencil unit include a refillable eraser at the top, the Coleto is the only one I found with a conveniently retractable eraser – and it’s just about the same diameter as my favorite Tombow Mono Zero . Although it doesn’t erase quite as well as the Zero, it’s still a very good eraser. I like that the eraser itself is refillable . Similarly, the mechanical pencil unit can be refilled with any 0.5 mm leads. The gel pen units are competent and come in oodles of colors. My only wish is that they were available in 0.7 mm, my favorite writing size. (All scribble swatches made in a Col-o-Ring Oversize notebook.) Another Pilot, the Acroball Spotliter is unique in a different way: In addition to three 0.7mm ballpoint pen units (black, blue and red inks), this multi pen comes with a highlighter in either pink or yellow at the top. I was pleased that it came with 0.7mm ballpoints, and the ink doesn’t smear when highlighted. The highlighter can be refilled along with the ink units. I like the grippy rubberized body, which is comfortable to hold and use. It’s fun to look through the translucent barrel and watch the inner mechanism move when a color is selected. (I admit, one reason I love multi pens is being able to see their intricate mechanical parts.) I have some quibbles, however. To select an ink color, the barrel must be twisted, and a small colored line indicates which color you have chosen (a ring on the pen tip also indicates the ink color). However, the barrel goes only so far, and then it must be reversed. When I get to the stopping point, I always want to keep going in the same direction. My preference is retractable tabs as on the Coleto. A second quibble is the cap over the highlighter. Intuitively, I want to pull off the cap, but when I do, the whole highlighter unit comes off, revealing the chamber for refilling the pen components. To open the highlighter, the cap must be twisted off. Maybe from a lifetime of pulling caps off highlighters, this twisting motion is not at all intuitive to me. The third multi pen in this review is not a pen at all – it’s the Uni Color 3 multi pencil. It comes with 0.5 mm Uni NanoDia Color Erasable leads in red, blue and orange. When the top cap is removed, a refillable eraser is revealed. The translucent barrel makes it easy to see which color is being selected. I didn’t have high expectations of coloring with these leads, but I made a valiant effort at sketching a peach anyway (I used a smooth Stillman & Birn Epsilon sketchbook). Although all three colors are pale by colored pencil standards, the orange is especially light. Adequate for writing, the red and blue would be a handy alternative to a woodcased bicolor pencil. All three colors do erase well with the attached eraser. Of the three (and of most multi pens I’ve tried), the Uni’s body feels the least sturdy. Although the sliding selector mechanisms are smooth, they feel bouncy instead of secure when pushed. Although a fully detachable cap over the eraser seems standard for multi pens and pencils, I wish more could be hinged like the Coleto’s. I’m certain that I’ll lose that tiny cap. The Uni 3 is one of few multi mechanical pencils I know of. Since the components will accommodate any 0.5 mm leads, here’s what I might do: Fill the three units with H, 2B and 4B graphite leads ( Pentel Ain Stein and Pilot Neox are some good ones). That would make the Uni 3 a handy and compact writing/drawing multi – and with a decent eraser, too. Tina Koyama is an urban sketcher in Seattle. Her blog is Fueled by Clouds & Coffee , and you can follow her on Instagram as Miatagrrl .
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I’ve acquired more than my share over the years. For this review, I picked out a few with unique or noteworthy features: [The Pilot Hi-Tec C Coleto 1000](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-1000-4-Color-Multi-Pen-Body-Component-Blue/pd/24122) (\$13.50 for body; \$4.50 for eraser component; \$3 for graphite component; \$1.80 for gel pen component), the [Pilot Acroball Spotlighter 3 Color Ballpoint Pen + Highlighter](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Acroball-Spotliter-3-Color-0.7-mm-Ballpoint-Multi-Pen-Highlighter-Blue-Body-Pink-Highlighter/pd/31343) (\$9.75), and the [Uni Color 3 Multi Mechanical Pencil](https://www.jetpens.com/Uni-Color-3-Erasable-Multi-Mechanical-Pencil-0.5-mm-Cherry-Pink/pd/24569) (\$8.25). (In Part 2, I’ll compare several other multi pens with more conventional ink/graphite components.) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2-3-multi-pens.jpg?resize=1000%2C592&ssl=1) The Pilot Hi-Tech C Coleto, the only customizable multi pen in this review, is nearly mind-boggling in its potential versatility. I was kind of scared to look through all the possibilities – 72 gel pen, pencil and eraser components compatible with its four available slots! (Don’t even get me started on the [Uni Style Fit Meister](https://www.jetpens.com/Uni-Style-Fit-Meister-5-Color-Multi-Pen-Body-Component-Black/pd/7301/refills), which has 214 components!) I stayed up a little too late choosing my refills ([violet](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Gel-Multi-Pen-Refill-0.5-mm-Violet/pd/1908) and [green](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Gel-Multi-Pen-Refill-0.5-mm-Green/pd/1904) 0.5mm gel, [0\.5 mm pencil](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Multi-Pen-0.5-mm-Mechanical-Pencil-Component/pd/5083) and [eraser](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Multi-Pen-Eraser-Component/pd/6636)). The body is a smooth, metallic-colored plastic with a shape that’s comfortable to hold, although the surface can be a bit slippery. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/3-Hi-Tec-C-top.jpg?resize=1000%2C1397&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/4-Hi-Tec-C-pen-point.jpg?resize=1000%2C1303&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/5-Hi-Tec-C-pencil-point.jpg?resize=1000%2C1524&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/6-Hi-Tec-C-eraser.jpg?resize=1000%2C1531&ssl=1) The refills are easy to place into the body. The hinged top flips open, and a component slides into each chamber. (It’s only tricky if you try to put one in backwards as I did! The tab must face out.) It’s fascinating to see all the hingey, springy parts on the components that make the multi pen operate smoothly. The selector tabs push down flawlessly and stay engaged in use until released by slightly pushing another tab. The larger tabs on the eraser and pencil units enable easy loading of additional eraser or lead by pushing repeatedly. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/7-Hi-Tec-C-top-open.jpg?resize=1000%2C1148&ssl=1) One reason I chose the Coleto is for its eraser unit. While most multi pens with a pencil unit include a refillable eraser at the top, the Coleto is the only one I found with a conveniently retractable eraser – and it’s just about the same diameter as my [favorite Tombow Mono Zero](https://www.jetpens.com/Tombow-Mono-Zero-Eraser-2.3-mm-Circle-Silver-Body/pd/1747). Although it doesn’t erase quite as well as the Zero, it’s still a very good eraser. I like that the eraser itself is [refillable](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Multi-Pen-Eraser-Refill-Pack-of-2/pd/6637). Similarly, the mechanical pencil unit can be refilled with any 0.5 mm leads. The gel pen units are competent and come in oodles of colors. My only wish is that they were available in 0.7 mm, my favorite writing size. (All scribble swatches made in a [Col-o-Ring Oversize](https://wellappointeddesk.bigcartel.com/product/col-o-ring-oversize) notebook.) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/8-Hi-Tec-C-scribble-tests-and-pen-scaled.jpg?resize=1140%2C408&ssl=1) Another Pilot, the Acroball Spotliter is unique in a different way: In addition to three 0.7mm ballpoint pen units (black, blue and red inks), this multi pen comes with a highlighter in either pink or yellow at the top. I was pleased that it came with 0.7mm ballpoints, and the ink doesn’t smear when highlighted. The [highlighter](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Acroball-Spotliter-Highlighter-Cartridge-Pink/pd/31346) can be refilled along with the ink units. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/9-Acroball-highlighter-tip.jpg?resize=1000%2C1196&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/10-Acroball-pen-point-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C1557&ssl=1) I like the grippy rubberized body, which is comfortable to hold and use. It’s fun to look through the translucent barrel and watch the inner mechanism move when a color is selected. (I admit, one reason I love multi pens is being able to see their intricate mechanical parts.) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/11-Acroball-rotating-barrel.jpg?resize=1000%2C1396&ssl=1) I have some quibbles, however. To select an ink color, the barrel must be twisted, and a small colored line indicates which color you have chosen (a ring on the pen tip also indicates the ink color). However, the barrel goes only so far, and then it must be reversed. When I get to the stopping point, I always want to keep going in the same direction. My preference is retractable tabs as on the Coleto. A second quibble is the cap over the highlighter. Intuitively, I want to pull off the cap, but when I do, the whole highlighter unit comes off, revealing the chamber for refilling the pen components. To open the highlighter, the cap must be twisted off. Maybe from a lifetime of pulling caps off highlighters, this twisting motion is not at all intuitive to me. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/12-Acroball-top-removed.jpg?resize=1000%2C1701&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/13-Acroball-scribble-tests-and-pen.jpg?resize=1000%2C376&ssl=1) The third multi pen in this review is not a pen at all – it’s the Uni Color 3 multi pencil. It comes with 0.5 mm [Uni NanoDia Color Erasable leads](https://www.jetpens.com/Uni-Color-3-Erasable-Multi-Mechanical-Pencil-0.5-mm-Cherry-Pink/pd/24569/refills) in red, blue and orange. When the top cap is removed, a refillable eraser is revealed. The translucent barrel makes it easy to see which color is being selected. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/16-Uni-Color-3-pencil-point-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C2000&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/15-Uni-Color-3-pencil-point-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C1594&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/14-Uni-Color-3-top.jpg?resize=1000%2C1399&ssl=1) I didn’t have high expectations of coloring with these leads, but I made a valiant effort at sketching a peach anyway (I used a smooth [Stillman & Birn Epsilon](https://www.jetpens.com/Stillman-Birn-Epsilon-Sketchbook-Softcover-5.5-x-8.5/pd/18732) sketchbook). Although all three colors are pale by colored pencil standards, the orange is especially light. Adequate for writing, the red and blue would be a handy alternative to a woodcased bicolor pencil. All three colors do erase well with the attached eraser. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/17-Uni-Color-3-sketch-with-peach.jpg?resize=1000%2C598&ssl=1) Of the three (and of most multi pens I’ve tried), the Uni’s body feels the least sturdy. Although the sliding selector mechanisms are smooth, they feel bouncy instead of secure when pushed. Although a fully detachable cap over the eraser seems standard for multi pens and pencils, I wish more could be hinged like the Coleto’s. I’m certain that I’ll lose that tiny cap. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/18-Uni-Color-3-cap-removed.jpg?resize=1000%2C1330&ssl=1) The Uni 3 is one of few multi mechanical pencils I know of. Since the components will accommodate any 0.5 mm leads, here’s what I might do: Fill the three units with H, 2B and 4B graphite leads ([Pentel Ain Stein](https://www.jetpens.com/Pentel-Ain-Stein-Lead/ct/2588) and [Pilot Neox](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Neox-Graphite-Lead/ct/2635) are some good ones). That would make the Uni 3 a handy and compact writing/drawing multi – and with a decent eraser, too. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/19-Uni-Color-3-scribble-tests-and-pen.jpg?resize=1000%2C397&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/20-Uni-Color-3-sketch-in-Epsilon.jpg?resize=1000%2C588&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/21-scan-of-scribble-tests.jpg?resize=1000%2C766&ssl=1) *** ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Tina-Koyama.jpg?resize=154%2C205&ssl=1)Tina Koyama is an urban sketcher in Seattle. Her blog is [Fueled by Clouds & Coffee](http://tina-koyama.blogspot.com/), and you can follow her on [Instagram as Miatagrrl](https://www.instagram.com/miatagrrl/). ### Share via: - [Share on X (Opens in new window) X](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2021/08/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1/?share=twitter&nb=1) - [Share on Facebook (Opens in new window) Facebook](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2021/08/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1/?share=facebook&nb=1) - [Share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window) LinkedIn](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2021/08/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1/?share=linkedin&nb=1) - [Share on Tumblr (Opens in new window) Tumblr](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2021/08/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1/?share=tumblr&nb=1) - [Share on Pinterest (Opens in new window) Pinterest](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2021/08/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1/?share=pinterest&nb=1) - [Share on Reddit (Opens in new window) Reddit](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2021/08/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1/?share=reddit&nb=1) - [Email a link to a friend (Opens in new window) Email](mailto:?subject=%5BShared%20Post%5D%20Multi%20Pen%20Review%3A%20Multi%20Madness%2C%20Part%201&body=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wellappointeddesk.com%2F2021%2F08%2Fmulti-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1%2F&share=email&nb=1) ### Like this: Like Loading... ### You might also enjoy: [![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_1815.jpg?resize=350%2C200&ssl=1)](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2014/12/review-pentel-i-3-multi-pen/ "Review: Pentel i+ 3 Multi-Pen") #### [Review: Pentel i+ 3 Multi-Pen](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2014/12/review-pentel-i-3-multi-pen/ "Review: Pentel i+ 3 Multi-Pen") I've got a soft spot for multi-pens. Especially Japanese gel multi-pens. While the Pilot Hi-Tec C multi-pens are often the most talked-about, followed by the Uni Style Fit line, I still find a little space in my multi-pen universe for Pentel and their Sliccie line of gel pens. The individual… [![](https://wellapptdesk.files.wordpress.com/2012/08/33413.jpg?w=350&h=200&crop=1)](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2012/08/bright-ideas-in-highlighters/ "Bright Ideas in Highlighters") #### [Bright Ideas in Highlighters](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2012/08/bright-ideas-in-highlighters/ "Bright Ideas in Highlighters") There's more options in highlighters than what you can find in the aisles of your local big box office supply store so I thought I'd round-up some more unusual highlighter options available. The refillable highlighter: If I have a choice, I'd rather not throw away pens if I can get… [![I absolutely love perpetual calendars and Oh, Hello Friend has a fabulous collection.](https://wellapptdesk.files.wordpress.com/2013/07/687474703a2f2f693330352e70686f746f6275636b65742e636f6d2f616c62756d732f6e6e3230362f6f6868656c6c6f667269656e642f706572736f6e616c2f6f7572686f6d652f6f6666696365345f7a707361353533386564612e6a.jpg?w=350&h=200&crop=1)](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2013/07/link-love-minding-the-ps-and-qs/ "Link Love: Minding the Ps and Qs") #### [Link Love: Minding the Ps and Qs](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2013/07/link-love-minding-the-ps-and-qs/ "Link Love: Minding the Ps and Qs") Pens and Pencils: Lamy Noto Ballpoint Pen Review (via Clicky Post) How to refill a Coleto Mechanical Pencil component (via East, West, Everywhere) Schneider Xtra 805 0.5 Black and Red Pen Review (via Economy Pens) Kaweco AL Sport Fountain Pen Review (via Clicky Post) Retractable Eraser Review: Sanford SpeedErase vs.… Tags: [highlighter](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/tag/highlighter/), [multipen](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/tag/multipen/), [pencil](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/tag/pencil/) Share:[Twitter](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=Multi+Pen+Review%3A+Multi+Madness%2C+Part+1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wellappointeddesk.com%2F2021%2F08%2Fmulti-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1%2F)[Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wellappointeddesk.com%2F2021%2F08%2Fmulti-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1%2F)[Google+](https://plus.google.com/share?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.wellappointeddesk.com%2F2021%2F08%2Fmulti-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1%2F) ## Written by [Laura Cameron](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/author/laura/) [Website](https://thecornerofknitandtea.com/) ## Post navigation [Previous Post](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2021/08/pencil-review-musgrave-heritage-collection-pencil-set/) [Next Post](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2021/08/fountain-pen-ink-review-taccia-hokusai-sabimidori/) ## 1 comment 1. LateToTheParty says: [November 15, 2022 at 8:36 pm](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2021/08/multi-pen-review-multi-madness-part-1/#comment-200719) Can you use the Tombow mono zero 2.3mm refill as substitute to the Coleto eraser refill? 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Readable Markdown	Review by Tina Koyama ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/1-bouquet-of-3-multi-pens.jpg?resize=1000%2C1512&ssl=1) [Ana is not the only one who has a thing for multi pens](https://www.wellappointeddesk.com/2020/11/more-multipens/)! I’ve acquired more than my share over the years. For this review, I picked out a few with unique or noteworthy features: [The Pilot Hi-Tec C Coleto 1000](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-1000-4-Color-Multi-Pen-Body-Component-Blue/pd/24122) (\$13.50 for body; \$4.50 for eraser component; \$3 for graphite component; \$1.80 for gel pen component), the [Pilot Acroball Spotlighter 3 Color Ballpoint Pen + Highlighter](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Acroball-Spotliter-3-Color-0.7-mm-Ballpoint-Multi-Pen-Highlighter-Blue-Body-Pink-Highlighter/pd/31343) (\$9.75), and the [Uni Color 3 Multi Mechanical Pencil](https://www.jetpens.com/Uni-Color-3-Erasable-Multi-Mechanical-Pencil-0.5-mm-Cherry-Pink/pd/24569) (\$8.25). (In Part 2, I’ll compare several other multi pens with more conventional ink/graphite components.) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/2-3-multi-pens.jpg?resize=1000%2C592&ssl=1) The Pilot Hi-Tech C Coleto, the only customizable multi pen in this review, is nearly mind-boggling in its potential versatility. I was kind of scared to look through all the possibilities – 72 gel pen, pencil and eraser components compatible with its four available slots! (Don’t even get me started on the [Uni Style Fit Meister](https://www.jetpens.com/Uni-Style-Fit-Meister-5-Color-Multi-Pen-Body-Component-Black/pd/7301/refills), which has 214 components!) I stayed up a little too late choosing my refills ([violet](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Gel-Multi-Pen-Refill-0.5-mm-Violet/pd/1908) and [green](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Gel-Multi-Pen-Refill-0.5-mm-Green/pd/1904) 0.5mm gel, [0\.5 mm pencil](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Multi-Pen-0.5-mm-Mechanical-Pencil-Component/pd/5083) and [eraser](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Multi-Pen-Eraser-Component/pd/6636)). The body is a smooth, metallic-colored plastic with a shape that’s comfortable to hold, although the surface can be a bit slippery. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/3-Hi-Tec-C-top.jpg?resize=1000%2C1397&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/4-Hi-Tec-C-pen-point.jpg?resize=1000%2C1303&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/5-Hi-Tec-C-pencil-point.jpg?resize=1000%2C1524&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/6-Hi-Tec-C-eraser.jpg?resize=1000%2C1531&ssl=1) The refills are easy to place into the body. The hinged top flips open, and a component slides into each chamber. (It’s only tricky if you try to put one in backwards as I did! The tab must face out.) It’s fascinating to see all the hingey, springy parts on the components that make the multi pen operate smoothly. The selector tabs push down flawlessly and stay engaged in use until released by slightly pushing another tab. The larger tabs on the eraser and pencil units enable easy loading of additional eraser or lead by pushing repeatedly. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/7-Hi-Tec-C-top-open.jpg?resize=1000%2C1148&ssl=1) One reason I chose the Coleto is for its eraser unit. While most multi pens with a pencil unit include a refillable eraser at the top, the Coleto is the only one I found with a conveniently retractable eraser – and it’s just about the same diameter as my [favorite Tombow Mono Zero](https://www.jetpens.com/Tombow-Mono-Zero-Eraser-2.3-mm-Circle-Silver-Body/pd/1747). Although it doesn’t erase quite as well as the Zero, it’s still a very good eraser. I like that the eraser itself is [refillable](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Hi-Tec-C-Coleto-Multi-Pen-Eraser-Refill-Pack-of-2/pd/6637). Similarly, the mechanical pencil unit can be refilled with any 0.5 mm leads. The gel pen units are competent and come in oodles of colors. My only wish is that they were available in 0.7 mm, my favorite writing size. (All scribble swatches made in a [Col-o-Ring Oversize](https://wellappointeddesk.bigcartel.com/product/col-o-ring-oversize) notebook.) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/8-Hi-Tec-C-scribble-tests-and-pen-scaled.jpg?resize=1140%2C408&ssl=1) Another Pilot, the Acroball Spotliter is unique in a different way: In addition to three 0.7mm ballpoint pen units (black, blue and red inks), this multi pen comes with a highlighter in either pink or yellow at the top. I was pleased that it came with 0.7mm ballpoints, and the ink doesn’t smear when highlighted. The [highlighter](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Acroball-Spotliter-Highlighter-Cartridge-Pink/pd/31346) can be refilled along with the ink units. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/9-Acroball-highlighter-tip.jpg?resize=1000%2C1196&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/10-Acroball-pen-point-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C1557&ssl=1) I like the grippy rubberized body, which is comfortable to hold and use. It’s fun to look through the translucent barrel and watch the inner mechanism move when a color is selected. (I admit, one reason I love multi pens is being able to see their intricate mechanical parts.) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/11-Acroball-rotating-barrel.jpg?resize=1000%2C1396&ssl=1) I have some quibbles, however. To select an ink color, the barrel must be twisted, and a small colored line indicates which color you have chosen (a ring on the pen tip also indicates the ink color). However, the barrel goes only so far, and then it must be reversed. When I get to the stopping point, I always want to keep going in the same direction. My preference is retractable tabs as on the Coleto. A second quibble is the cap over the highlighter. Intuitively, I want to pull off the cap, but when I do, the whole highlighter unit comes off, revealing the chamber for refilling the pen components. To open the highlighter, the cap must be twisted off. Maybe from a lifetime of pulling caps off highlighters, this twisting motion is not at all intuitive to me. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/12-Acroball-top-removed.jpg?resize=1000%2C1701&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/13-Acroball-scribble-tests-and-pen.jpg?resize=1000%2C376&ssl=1) The third multi pen in this review is not a pen at all – it’s the Uni Color 3 multi pencil. It comes with 0.5 mm [Uni NanoDia Color Erasable leads](https://www.jetpens.com/Uni-Color-3-Erasable-Multi-Mechanical-Pencil-0.5-mm-Cherry-Pink/pd/24569/refills) in red, blue and orange. When the top cap is removed, a refillable eraser is revealed. The translucent barrel makes it easy to see which color is being selected. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/16-Uni-Color-3-pencil-point-2.jpg?resize=1000%2C2000&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/15-Uni-Color-3-pencil-point-1.jpg?resize=1000%2C1594&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/14-Uni-Color-3-top.jpg?resize=1000%2C1399&ssl=1) I didn’t have high expectations of coloring with these leads, but I made a valiant effort at sketching a peach anyway (I used a smooth [Stillman & Birn Epsilon](https://www.jetpens.com/Stillman-Birn-Epsilon-Sketchbook-Softcover-5.5-x-8.5/pd/18732) sketchbook). Although all three colors are pale by colored pencil standards, the orange is especially light. Adequate for writing, the red and blue would be a handy alternative to a woodcased bicolor pencil. All three colors do erase well with the attached eraser. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/17-Uni-Color-3-sketch-with-peach.jpg?resize=1000%2C598&ssl=1) Of the three (and of most multi pens I’ve tried), the Uni’s body feels the least sturdy. Although the sliding selector mechanisms are smooth, they feel bouncy instead of secure when pushed. Although a fully detachable cap over the eraser seems standard for multi pens and pencils, I wish more could be hinged like the Coleto’s. I’m certain that I’ll lose that tiny cap. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/18-Uni-Color-3-cap-removed.jpg?resize=1000%2C1330&ssl=1) The Uni 3 is one of few multi mechanical pencils I know of. Since the components will accommodate any 0.5 mm leads, here’s what I might do: Fill the three units with H, 2B and 4B graphite leads ([Pentel Ain Stein](https://www.jetpens.com/Pentel-Ain-Stein-Lead/ct/2588) and [Pilot Neox](https://www.jetpens.com/Pilot-Neox-Graphite-Lead/ct/2635) are some good ones). That would make the Uni 3 a handy and compact writing/drawing multi – and with a decent eraser, too. ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/19-Uni-Color-3-scribble-tests-and-pen.jpg?resize=1000%2C397&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/20-Uni-Color-3-sketch-in-Epsilon.jpg?resize=1000%2C588&ssl=1) ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/21-scan-of-scribble-tests.jpg?resize=1000%2C766&ssl=1) *** ![](https://i0.wp.com/www.wellappointeddesk.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Tina-Koyama.jpg?resize=154%2C205&ssl=1)Tina Koyama is an urban sketcher in Seattle. Her blog is [Fueled by Clouds & Coffee](http://tina-koyama.blogspot.com/), and you can follow her on [Instagram as Miatagrrl](https://www.instagram.com/miatagrrl/).
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