Kuru Toga: 12+ Models Explained (Here's How to Choose)

The original Kuru Toga mechanism rotates the lead every 40 strokes. The Advance models use a W Speed Engine that rotates every 20 strokes, effectively doubling the rotation speed. This isn't just a numbers game. The faster rotation makes a noticeable difference when you're writing in English or other alphabetic scripts that use longer, continuous strokes. With kanji or complex characters that require more lifts of the pencil, the standard engine works perfectly fine.

The W Speed Engine also sharpens the lead less aggressively with each rotation, which matters if you prefer softer leads like 2B that wear down faster anyway.

The grip isn't squishy but has a grippy texture that might feel better for writers who have sweaty hands. Instead of a clip, there's a circular knob to prevent rolling. It's a bit of an odd choice since most people want a clip, but if you keep your pencils in a case or cup holder, this works fine.

The Kuru Toga KS has a rubber grip section and an updated rotation mechanism that prevents the pencil's lead pipe from wiggling. That tip wiggle is something you notice more when doing detailed work like technical drawings or small handwriting. The KS fixes this issue without adding much to the price point.

The grip is nice and squishy for anyone who squeezes tightly on their pencils, and it has a slightly thicker barrel than other Kuru Toga models, so it encourages a gentler grasp. If you tend to grip too hard and end up with hand fatigue, this model genuinely helps. The silicone grip absorbs pressure in a way that hard rubber or plastic simply can't.

This model allows you to twist the clip to toggle between "Kuru Toga" mode with lead rotation and "Hold" mode that keeps the lead still for a more stable feel. In practice, I find myself using Hold mode occasionally for quick notes and cursive writing, then switching to Kuru Toga for detailed work. It's more versatile than you'd expect.

The Kuru Toga Advance uses the W Speed Engine and has a sliding lead sleeve, plus a metal-plated tip nose cone and clip that help give the pencil a lower center of gravity. That weight distribution makes it feel more balanced than lighter models. The sliding sleeve is genuinely useful because it protects your lead and retracts as you write, so you don't need to keep clicking.

Instead of a plastic grip section, the Advance Upgrade has a grip section made of matte, textured metal that makes it easier to hold. The metal grip also adds weight where you hold the pencil, which some writers prefer for control. This is only available in 0.5mm, which limits your options if you prefer other lead sizes.

This one has the W Speed Engine and sliding sleeve but keeps the lightweight plastic construction of the Standard model. It's similar to the Advance but without the metal components, so it stays lighter and usually costs less.

The High Grade has a matte aluminum grip section with ridges that support your fingers as you write and is ideal for professional settings. The ridges aren't aggressive knurling, just gentle grooves that provide tactile feedback. It's understated rather than flashy.

These models feature knurled metal grip sections and metallic finishes on their plastic barrels for a luxurious feel. The knurling provides excellent grip without being uncomfortable during extended writing sessions. The Elite comes in starter sets with leads and replacement erasers included.

The entire body is made from lightweight yet sturdy aluminum with gentle grooves in the grip section, and it has a resin damper that keeps the tip from wiggling. This is the most durable standard Kuru Toga model, though the all-aluminum construction means it's noticeably heavier than plastic versions.

The Dive's magnetic cap causes lead to extend automatically when removed, and its innovative mechanism activates when the lead itself touches the paper rather than when the lead pipe touches. This means the writing feel stays consistent as your lead shortens. You can adjust the amount of automatic lead advancement in five stages by turning a dial near the tip, choosing based on your lead hardness and writing pressure.

The Dive is only available in 0.5mm, and at 10.7mm the grip diameter is much wider than other standard models, and the entire pencil is oversized. Posting the cap makes it even longer, to the point where I only use it unposted. It's impressive technology, but the execution might not work for smaller hands.

For everyday writing, the Standard or Advance gives you everything you need. The Standard costs less and works great. The Advance adds the faster rotation and sliding sleeve if you write a lot in English.

If grip comfort matters to you, go Alpha Gel. If you want something that feels premium without being flashy, the High Grade or Roulette delivers. The Metal is your choice if you need durability.

The Dive is a technological showcase that stands above any other mechanical pencil today, so if the size and single lead size option are acceptable to you, this might just be 'the one' for you - if you're feeling like treating yourself.