I don't use marker pens, but I do use India ink for all my blacks, including checkerboards.  It won't fade, can be easy to apply or a pain in the ...well...you know the rest.  I keep alchy close at hand at all times for the goofs I don't get with water right away.  But...all the possible goofs notwithstanding, it's still much easier to do after a little practice than taping and painting.  The clear goes over it fine, and it's the lightest weight black possible.
The reason I shy away from marker pens is that some of the "black" markers actually look green in the sunlight.  Because of that, the question of what brands is quite valid.

You're right, Ty - the markers are a lot quicker, easier, and don't have the propensity to be as messy, (spell that, fewer mistakes)
I wish I could remember the brand I found several years ago that were actually BLACK!!  I should have written the name down, but you know how that goes.  Thing is, there must still be some out there.  Maybe that would be a good research task for some of us?
Blessings,
Will

Here's a photo for you Wayne.

   Those particular markers have a remarkable smell, as well. It's gotta be bad for you, but after a few whiffs, you don't care.

     Brett