A solid budget/workhorse fountain pen, particularly if you're more interested in the nib feel more than build quality. I'd say about 4/5 value or 3.5/5 if you don't like very light pens.
The main virtue of the Desire is its flexibility: Kanwrite lists it with 3-in-1 filling system cartridge, converter and eyedropper; as well as a wide nib/feed setup, EF/F/M, regular/flex/ultra-flex, and plastic or ebonite feed options depending on configuration. FPR also characterizes it as “workhorse” which is “affordable”, has a #6 nib, screw cap, and is converter/eyedropper fillable, and offers multiple color options.
Writing experience
The best part is the nib. Desire is commonly found to be smooth, wet and fun to write with by users. According to one user on Reddit, the Medium Flex had a smooth and “decently wet” nib that stood out while the reverse side was a bit scratchy. The writing performance of the first fill and the replaceable nib units are also great attributes according to Kanwrite's own customer reviews, which also highlight the lightweight feel and grip.
I would use Fine Regular or Medium Regular used for regular notes. Fine Flex or Fine Ultra Flex is more fun for the expressive writing but flex nibs require more moisture and lighter hand. One Reddit reviewer remarked that flexing might go horribly with numerous inks, and another user commented that the pen may be very wet.
Build and comfort
The body is light: Kanwrite's capped weight is 16.2 g and uncapped weight 10.3 g, and the section diameter is 10.8 mm. This is easy to use for long writing periods, and may be too light or "plasticky" if you like heavier metal pens.
The build quality is of a reasonable standard – not luxurious. According to the official specs, the body is constructed of acrylic resin and comes with gold/silver trims and screw cap. Independent user feedback is mixed, with one Reddit reviewer having a good time with the writing but finding the pen body, clip and converter cheap.
Pros
Excellent value for your purchase. The Desire is popular because of the writing feel that can be surprisingly good for what it costs.
Numerous varieties of nips. It is more customizable than most starter pens with EF, F, M, regular, flex and ultra-flex options.
Good everyday size. Light and holds to approximately 16cm in the FPR listing with a nice fit on the section size.
Easy to understand and not dull. Practical regular nibs, flex nibs allow you to experiment.
Cons
Body feels budget. The pen is not expensive and might not seem high quality.
Ink sensitivity may be an issue with flex setups. If the ink/feed flow is not maintained, flex nibs can railroad.
The quality of the converter could vary. There was at least one user review that commented on the feel of the converter and the smell of the lubricant.
Best nib choice
Used for school or daily notes: Fine Regular.
If the writing is smoother and bolder: Medium Regular.
Calligraphy-style line variation: Fine Ultra Flex,
Ideally with the ebonite dual channel feed option (if available). Kanwrite currently has dual-channel feed as a selection on the Desire product page.
Final recommendation
If you're looking for a budget pen with a truly great nib and plenty of options, the Kanwrite Desire is the pen you should consider buying. If you're looking for a full-bodied, expensive-feeling converter or a no-fluff converter, skip it. It is best used as the writer's pen and not a luxury pen.
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