10 Best Permanent Markers For Metal in 2026

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For writing on metal that stays put, the Sharpie King Size Permanent Markers lead the pack with an extra wide chisel tip and ink that bonds to greasy, wet, and oily surfaces. For crafters decorating rocks, the Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers bring metallic colors. Industrial users needing quick-dry marks on wet metal will appreciate the Mighty Marker PM-19 Industrial Paint Marker.

The challenge with metal is that it’s non-porous, often oily or wet, and exposed to weather or chemicals. Most standard markers bead up or fade fast. You need ink formulated to bite into slick metal and resist abrasion, moisture, and UV light.

This guide is based on a close look at manufacturer specs, expert round-ups of industrial and art markers, and patterns in thousands of owner reviews. We’ve organized ten top picks by their specific strengths so you can match the right marker to your job.

Top 10 Permanent Markers For Metal in the Market

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The Best Permanent Markers For Metal, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Sharpie King Size Permanent Markers

Sharpie King Size Permanent Markers
Tip TypeExtra wide chisel tip
Ink TypePermanent black ink
Surface CompatibilityPaper, plastic, wood, leather, greasy/wet/oily surfaces
Barrel MaterialSturdy plastic
Pack Size12 count
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What We Like

  • Extra wide chisel tip for bold coverage
  • Writes on greasy, wet, and oily surfaces
  • Fade and water-resistant quick-drying ink
  • High capacity ink supply for heavy use

Trade-offs

  • Only available in black ink
  • Chisel tip limited to broad strokes, not fine detail

The extra wide chisel tip delivers bold, extensive coverage in a single pass, which is exactly what you need when marking surfaces that are greasy, wet, or oily. Its fade and water-resistant quick-drying ink means your marks stay legible even in rough industrial conditions, and the high capacity ink supply keeps you working longer without swapping markers. For anyone who needs a heavy-duty marker that handles messy shop environments and leaves clear, lasting imprints on paper, plastic, wood, or leather, this is the one to reach for.

The trade-off is that this marker is built for broad strokes, not fine lines. If you need to write small serial numbers or detailed labels, the chisel tip may feel clumsy compared to the fine point of the Mighty Marker PM-19. But for large markings, warehouse labeling, or color-coding parts, the Sharpie King Size’s rugged barrel and multi-surface capability make it a strong option in the guide.

Best for: Industrial users and artists who need bold, permanent marks on paper, plastic, wood, or leather, especially where grease or moisture is present. Not ideal for fine detail work or color-coding beyond black ink.

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#2Best For Rock Painting

Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers

Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers
Tip sizeMedium point
Ink typeOil based
Colors includedBlack, Red, White, Metallic Silver, Metallic Gold
Count5 markers
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What We Like

  • Quick drying oil based ink
  • Resists fading, smearing and water
  • Includes metallic colors for decorative projects

Trade-offs

  • Medium point limits fine detail work
  • Requires shaking and priming before first use
  • Only 5 colors in the set

The five-color set includes black, red, white, and two metallic shades, giving you versatile contrast for both light and dark surfaces. That makes it a natural fit for decorating rocks, where you often want bright opaque marks that pop against natural stone tones. The quick-drying oil-based ink resists fading and smearing, so your finished rocks can handle a little handling or outdoor display without losing their look. Medium point lines are suitable for general decorating tasks like window art and scrapbooking.

The Avery Marks A Lot Permanent Markers are built for heavy industrial metal marking or writing on greasy surfaces. They have a bullet tip and resistance to wet and oily conditions. The Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers trade that rugged utility for decorative versatility, especially with their metallic colors that add shimmer to art projects. The trade-off is a smaller color selection and the need to shake and prime the pen before each session, but for rock painting and craft work the payoff is clean, glossy marks that stay put.

Best for: Crafters and hobbyists painting rocks or decorating windows who want quick-drying, water-resistant opaque marks in versatile colors. Not ideal for heavy-duty industrial labeling on oily or dusty metal surfaces.
#3Best For Tire Marking

DAPAWIN White Permanent Markers

DAPAWIN White Permanent Markers
Tip size2 mm ~ 3 mm
Ink typeOil-based, waterproof
Quantity8 markers
SurfacesMetal, tire, wood, plastic, rocks, fabric, ceramic, glass
Weight0.4 pounds
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What We Like

  • Non-toxic, low-odor formula
  • Waterproof and quick-dry ink
  • Works on metal, tires, and more
  • Durable rounded tip for precise lines

Trade-offs

  • Old and new cap styles sent randomly
  • Caps are intentionally hard to remove
  • Medium tip limits fine detail work

Eight white oil-based paint markers with a 2-3 mm tip give you enough coverage to mark tires, metal pipes, and dark surfaces clearly. The non-toxic, low-odor ink dries quickly and holds up against sun, rain, and cold, so it’s a practical choice for outdoor jobs like labeling tires or steel equipment. The ink is waterproof and opaque, which helps marks stay visible on dark backgrounds.

The DAPAWIN White Permanent Markers deliver high-coverage white ink that stands up to hot sun, heavy rain, and freezing temperatures. That makes them a reliable choice for outdoor marking on tires, metal, and other tough surfaces. The medium tip produces a line thickness between 2 mm and 3 mm, which works well for bold labeling but won’t give you the fine detail needed for intricate designs. Compared to the Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers, which come in assorted colors with a medium point, this set focuses solely on opaque white for heavy-duty jobs where color variety isn’t needed.

Best for: Anyone marking tires, metal, or dark surfaces outdoors with a durable white paint marker. Not ideal for fine detail work or projects needing multiple ink colors.

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#4Best Dual Tip Set

Chalkola Oil Paint Pens

Chalkola Oil Paint Pens
Tip Sizes1mm Fine + 5mm Medium
Ink TypeOil-based, permanent
SurfacesMetal, wood, glass, fabric, ceramic, plastic
Quantity20 markers
Safety StandardsASTM D-4236, EN-71
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What We Like

  • Dual tip for fine detail and bold fill
  • Works on metal, wood, glass, and plastic
  • Waterproof, fade-resistant, and abrasion-resistant
  • 20-color set offers broad creative range

Trade-offs

  • Heavier than single-tip markers at 1.0 lb

Twenty oil-based markers with both a 1mm fine tip and a 5mm medium tip mean you can switch from precise lettering on a metal toolbox to filling in a broad design on a steel surface without grabbing a second pen. The ink resists water, fading, and abrasion, so marks on metal stay legible even when the surface gets handled or wiped. This set suits artists and DIYers who want one kit for labeling, decorating, and personalizing metal, wood, glass, or ceramic. You won’t need to swap between different marker types.

The Chalkola 20 Oil Paint Pens weigh 1.0 pounds, so the box is noticeably heavier than a pack of single-tip markers like the Sharpie set with oil-based paint. For creative projects where you want both fine detail and broad coverage, the dual-tip design gives you an extra fine tip for precise work and a medium tip for filling larger areas. All that comes in one set.

Best for: Artists and crafters who need both fine detail and broad coverage from one marker set for metal, wood, and glass projects.

Product photos

#5Best Quick-Dry Industrial

Mighty Marker PM-19 Industrial Paint Marker

Mighty Marker PM-19 Industrial Paint Marker
Tip Type3.2mm Bullet / 4.8mm Chisel
Dry TimeUnder 30 seconds
Ink Capacity13ml
Bonus Tips6 replacement tips
Made InUSA
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What We Like

  • Dries in under 30 seconds
  • Works on oily and wet surfaces
  • Valve action prevents dry-out
  • Includes 6 bonus replacement tips

Trade-offs

  • Xylene-based formula has strong solvent odor
  • Not suited for odor-sensitive indoor environments

A 30-second dry time means you can mark a metal beam, cap the marker, and move on without waiting for ink to set or worrying about smudges. The valve-action mechanism prevents dry-out even if the cap is left off, so you get full use of the 13ml paint reservoir across long shifts. The dual-tip design, a 3.2mm bullet for precise lines and a 4.8mm chisel for broad coverage, handles everything from labeling steel pipes to marking pallets. It writes on oily or wet surfaces and metal, making it suited for professionals who need permanent marks in demanding conditions.

The xylene-based paint in the Mighty Marker PM-19 dries fast and bonds aggressively to metal, but the solvent smell is strong. That makes it less comfortable for indoor use without ventilation. Compared to the Sharpie King Size Permanent Markers, which offer a chisel tip for heavy-duty poster work, the PM-19 provides a dual-tip design and faster drying. The Sharpie is odor-free and better suited for enclosed spaces. If you work outdoors or in a well-ventilated shop and need marks that resist water, UV rays, and chemicals, the Mighty Marker delivers. For indoor use where fumes are a concern, the Sharpie King Size is the gentler choice.

Best for: Industrial professionals who need fast-drying, weather-resistant marks on oily or wet metal surfaces. Not ideal for users sensitive to strong solvent fumes or those needing ultra-fine detail work.

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#6Best For Wet Oily Surfaces

Avery Marks A Lot Permanent Markers

Avery Marks A Lot Permanent Markers
Tip TypeBullet
Ink ColorBlack
Quantity12 markers
Surface CompatibilityWet, oily, dusty
ResistanceWater, abrasion, smearing
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What We Like

  • Writes on wet, oily, dusty surfaces
  • Resists water, abrasion, and smearing
  • Clip secures to pockets and lanyards

Trade-offs

  • Only available in black ink
  • Bullet tip limits broad coverage

The ability to mark reliably on wet, oily, and dusty surfaces means this marker stays useful when conditions get rough. Its industrial-grade black ink resists water, abrasion, and smearing, so marks hold up on metal even in messy jobsite environments. The cap clip secures to pockets or lanyards, keeping it handy when you need both hands free. This is the pick for anyone who works on metal that isn’t clean or dry.

A marker that writes on wet, oily, or dusty surfaces without clogging is what the Avery Marks A Lot delivers. It’s built for jobsite conditions. You only get black ink and a bullet tip, so if you want color coding or broad strokes on large surfaces, the Sharpie King Size has a chisel tip and high capacity ink supply. But for marking greasy machine parts, damp pipes, or dusty beams, this marker works reliably.

Best for: Workers who need to mark wet, oily, or dusty surfaces on jobsites. Not ideal for color-coding tasks or covering large areas quickly.
#7Best Tip Variety Pack

Chalkola Black Oil Based Paint Markers

Chalkola Black Oil Based Paint Markers
Tip sizes1mm, 3mm, 5mm, 10mm, 15mm
Ink typeOil-based, waterproof, weather-resistant
SurfacesMetal, wood, glass, plastic, ceramic, rubber
Drying time1-10 minutes
Quantity5 markers
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What We Like

  • Five tip sizes from 1mm to 15mm
  • Weather-resistant and waterproof ink
  • Works on metal, glass, plastic, and more
  • Quick-dry formula sets in minutes

Trade-offs

  • Only black color in this pack
  • Removal requires alcohol-based solvents on non-porous surfaces

Five tip sizes spanning 1mm to 15mm give you a marker for every job, from fine labeling on a metal bracket to bold coverage on a warehouse sign or automotive panel. The oil-based formula bonds to metal, glass, plastic, and rubber, then dries in minutes and shrugs off sun and rain. That range makes this set a natural fit for anyone who needs one box to handle detail work and large-area marking alike, without switching brands or hunting for a different pen.

This five-pack of black oil-based paint markers gives you tips from 1mm up to 15mm. You can handle everything from labeling small parts to filling large areas on a single project. The trade-off is color choice: this set offers only black, while the Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers come in assorted and metallic colors. For someone focused on a black-only job that needs both precision and bold strokes, this pack covers that range well.

Best for: A creator or tradesperson who needs one set of permanent markers covering fine detail, standard marking, and large-area coverage on metal and other surfaces. Not ideal for projects requiring multiple colors.

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#8Best Chemical Resistant

MAGIC TAG Alcohol & Chemical Resistant Markers

MAGIC TAG Alcohol & Chemical Resistant Markers
Tip Size1 mm fine, medium red
Ink ResistanceAlcohol, chemical, UV, water, acids, bases, bleach, peroxide, detergents, soaps, freezing, oven, autoclave, incubator
Surface CompatibilityGlass, plastic, metal, wet or moist surfaces
Quantity3-pack
Ink Longevity>100 years
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What We Like

  • Resists ethanol, isopropanol, DMSO, acetonitrile, liquid nitrogen
  • Writes on wet or moist surfaces
  • Never-dry tip humectant-rich ink
  • Fine and medium tip for precision

Trade-offs

  • Only fine and medium tips, no chisel or bullet
  • 3-pack limits quantity for large jobs

The permanent ink resists ethanol, isopropanol, dimethyl sulfoxide, acetonitrile, liquid nitrogen, water, acids and bases, bleach, peroxide, detergents, soaps, UV light, freezing, ovens, autoclaves, and incubators, so it handles conditions that ruin ordinary markers. For anyone labeling lab equipment, industrial parts, or medical tools that see harsh chemicals or sterilization, that level of resistance is the whole reason to reach for this pack. It also writes reliably on wet or moist surfaces, which means you can mark a freshly cleaned metal panel without waiting for it to dry. The humectant-rich ink keeps the tip from drying out even after long storage, so you aren’t fighting a dead marker when you need it most.

Tip variety is limited: you get a 1 mm fine point and a medium red tip, but no chisel or bullet for bold, fast coverage. If you need to mark large metal surfaces quickly, a chisel-tip marker like the Sharpie King Size will cover more area per stroke. But for precise, permanent labeling where chemical resistance is critical, the MAGIC TAG set earns its place. The 3-pack also means you’re buying a targeted solution rather than a bulk box, so it fits best in a lab coat pocket or a tool pouch rather than a warehouse shelf.

Best for: Lab technicians, industrial professionals, and anyone who needs a marker that survives alcohol, chemicals, and autoclaves on metal or wet surfaces. Not ideal for broad, fast coverage on large metal sheets or for users who prefer a chisel tip.
#9Best With Bonus Tips

Mighty Marker PM-16 Paint Markers

Mighty Marker PM-16 Paint Markers
Tip size2.3mm bullet
Bonus tips8 included
Made inUSA
Ink typeOil-based paint
DryingQuick-drying
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What We Like

  • 8 bonus tips included
  • Quick-drying oil-based paint
  • Weather and fade resistant
  • Valve action works on oily surfaces

Trade-offs

  • 2.3mm tip limits broad coverage
  • Only 8-pack in white offered

Eight bonus tips mean you can keep marking without stopping to clean or replace a worn nib, which is exactly the kind of practical thinking that saves time on a busy job site. The quick-drying oil-based paint lays down bold, high-opacity marks that resist weather and fading, so your labels on metal beams, machinery, or outdoor gear stay readable for the long haul. This set suits anyone who needs a reliable permanent marker for metal and wants the convenience of spare tips built right into the purchase.

The 2.3mm bullet tip is designed for precision marking on small parts or weld symbols, but it won’t cover large areas as quickly as a broader tip. For detailed, durable marks on metal with a steady supply of fresh tips, the Mighty Marker PM-16 delivers exactly what it promises.

Best for: Welders, fabricators, and industrial users who want a precise, weather-resistant paint marker with extra tips included.

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#10Best For Wet Icy Surfaces

Markal Paintstik White Paint Markers

Markal Paintstik White Paint Markers
Quantity12-pack
Tip TypeSolid paint stick (crayon-like)
Surface CompatibilityMetal, wood, rubber, plastic, icy, wet, oily
ResistanceWaterproof, UV-resistant, fade-resistant, oil-resistant
OriginMade in USA
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What We Like

  • Works on wet, icy, and oily surfaces
  • Fade-resistant and waterproof marks
  • Solid paint stick for smooth, quick-dry strokes
  • 12-pack for extended use

Trade-offs

  • White color only limits color-coding options
  • No fine tip for detailed work

A solid paint stick that writes on wet, icy, and oily metal means you can label outdoor equipment, frozen pipes, or greasy machinery without wiping the surface first. The Markal Paintstik delivers high-visibility white marks that resist fading, water, and oil, so your labels stay readable through rain, sun, and grime. This is the pick for anyone who needs permanent markings in harsh conditions where standard markers skip or smear.

For broad, bold marks on rough, wet, or icy surfaces, the Markal Paintstik skips the fuss of priming or wiping and gets straight to marking. It works like a crayon but lays down a waterproof, fade-resistant paint line that holds up on metal, wood, rubber, and plastic. Reviewers note that for precise lettering on small parts, a liquid paint marker like the Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers offers a finer point. This stick is built for speed and visibility in tough conditions.

Best for: Industrial workers, outdoor DIYers, and anyone labeling metal, wood, or tires in wet, icy, or oily conditions. Not ideal for detailed or small-surface writing where a fine tip is needed.

How We Evaluated Permanent Markers For Metal

We evaluated each marker on its ink chemistry, tip design, surface compatibility, and durability claims. Manufacturer data on dry time, fade resistance, and chemical resistance formed the backbone of our research. We also studied expert round-ups from industrial supply publications and art-material reviewers to understand what professionals demand.

The four criteria that mattered most were ink adhesion to non-porous metal, resistance to water and abrasion, and tip options for line width. We also considered whether the marker could write on oily or wet surfaces, a common problem in metal marking. Another factor was whether the marker could handle extreme conditions like freezing temperatures or solvent exposure.

An evaluation based on specifications has limits: the recommendations come from what the specifications promise and what consistent owner feedback confirms. When in doubt, markers with a clear track record in demanding settings were favored.

What To Look For In Permanent Markers For Metal

Choosing the right permanent marker for metal comes down to matching the ink type and tip to your surface and environment. Here is what matters most.

Pick a marker whose ink chemistry matches your surface condition, oil-based paint for bare metal, solvent-based for greasy parts, and alcohol-resistant ink for lab work. Tip size controls whether you get fine lines or bold coverage.

Ink Type And Adhesion

Oil-based paint markers are the most versatile for metal because the pigment sits on top of the surface and resists water, UV light, and abrasion. Solvent-based markers like those with xylene or valve-action systems penetrate light oils and dry fast, making them ideal for shop-floor marking. For lab environments, alcohol- and chemical-resistant markers survive ethanol, isopropanol, and autoclaves. Avoid water-based markers on metal, they bead up and fade quickly outdoors.

Tip Size And Line Control

Tip size determines whether you can write a part number, color a large area, or draw fine details. Chisel tips (like the Sharpie King Size’s extra-wide tip) cover broad strokes fast but cannot do fine work. Bullet tips around 1mm handle general marking. Fine and extra-fine tips (0.7mm to 1mm) are best for small parts or precise labels. Some marker sets now include five tip sizes from 1mm to 15mm, giving you one pack for detail, standard marking, and fill.

Surface Condition Readiness

Many metal surfaces arrive wet, oily, dusty, or even icy. Standard markers fail on these. Look for markers specifically rated for “wet and oily” surfaces, the Avery Marks A Lot and Mighty Marker PM-19 both excel here. The Markal Paintstik even writes on icy metal, which is rare. If your metal is clean and dry, almost any oil-based marker works, but if you are marking engine parts or outdoor pipes, surface-condition compatibility is non-negotiable.

  • Check whether the marker needs shaking and priming before first use, some oil-based markers require this step.
  • Confirm the dry time: industrial markers like the Mighty Marker PM-19 dry in under 30 seconds.
  • See if the ink is fade-resistant and waterproof for outdoor or sun-exposed metal.
  • Look at the cap design: some markers have intentionally hard-to-remove caps to prevent dry-out.

For most metal marking jobs, an oil-based paint marker with a medium bullet tip and a quick-dry formula is the safest all-around choice.

Permanent Markers For Metal Compared

The table below compares all ten markers at a glance, covering ink type, tip style, surface compatibility, and key durability features.

ProductTip TypeSurface CompatibilityPack Size
Sharpie King Size Permanent MarkersExtra wide chisel tipPaper, plastic, wood, leather, greasy/wet/oily surfaces12 count
Sharpie Oil-Based Paint MarkersMedium pointN/A5 count
DAPAWIN White Permanent Markers2 mm ~ 3 mmMetal, tire, wood, plastic, rocks, fabric, ceramic, glass8 markers
Chalkola Oil Paint Pens1mm Fine + 5mm MediumMetal, wood, glass, fabric, ceramic, plastic20 markers
Mighty Marker PM-19 Industrial Paint Marker3.2mm Bullet / 4.8mm Chiselmetal, oily or wet surfaces, plastics, composites, rubber, wood, masonry, glass6 pack
Avery Marks A Lot Permanent MarkersBulletWet, oily, dusty12 markers
Chalkola Black Oil Based Paint Markers1mm, 3mm, 5mm, 10mm, 15mmMetal, wood, glass, plastic, ceramic, rubber5 markers
MAGIC TAG Alcohol & Chemical Resistant Markers1 mm fine, medium redGlass, plastic, metal, wet or moist surfaces3-pack
Mighty Marker PM-16 Paint Markers2.3mm bulletN/A8 pack
Markal Paintstik White Paint MarkersSolid paint stick (crayon-like)Metal, wood, rubber, plastic, icy, wet, oily12-pack

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of permanent marker works best on metal?

Oil-based paint markers are generally the best choice for metal because their pigment sits on the surface and resists water, fading, and abrasion. For oily or wet metal, look for solvent-based markers with valve-action systems that write through light contamination.

Can you use a regular Sharpie on metal?

Regular Sharpie markers are alcohol-based and will write on clean, dry metal, but the ink is not as durable as oil-based paint. It can fade in sunlight, smear with moisture, and wear off with handling. For permanent marks on metal, an oil-based Sharpie or a dedicated industrial paint marker is better.

How do you make permanent marker stay on metal?

Start with a clean, dry surface if possible. Use an oil-based or solvent-based marker formulated for non-porous surfaces. Let the ink cure fully before exposing it to heavy handling or moisture. Some industrial markers are designed to write on oily surfaces and dry quickly.

What is the difference between oil-based and solvent-based markers for metal?

Oil-based markers use pigment suspended in oil, which dries slowly but creates a thick, opaque, weather-resistant layer. Solvent-based markers use a fast-evaporating solvent like xylene or alcohol, drying in seconds and penetrating light oils. Oil-based is better for decoration and outdoor use; solvent-based is better for shop-floor marking on greasy parts.

Are paint markers the same as permanent markers for metal?

Paint markers are a type of permanent marker that uses pigmented paint instead of dye-based ink. They are typically more opaque, more weather-resistant, and adhere better to non-porous surfaces like metal than standard permanent markers. For metal, paint markers are almost always the better choice.

The Bottom Line

For most people marking metal, the Sharpie King Size Permanent Markers are the best overall choice. Its extra-wide chisel tip lays down bold, fade-resistant ink that sticks to greasy, wet, and oily surfaces, exactly what metal marking demands. It is ideal for industrial users, artists, and anyone who needs a heavy-duty black mark that lasts.

If you need fine detail or multiple colors, look at the Chalkola Oil Paint Pens for their dual tips and 20-color set, or the Sharpie Oil-Based Paint Markers for craft projects on rocks and windows. For wet or icy conditions, the Markal Paintstik is a solid paint stick that works where liquid markers fail.

The single most important factor is matching the ink to your surface condition. Clean, dry metal works with almost any oil-based marker. Oily, wet, or icy metal requires a marker specifically rated for those conditions. Choose by your workspace, not just by brand.