10 Best Colored Pencils 2025 in the United States

The Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, Soft Core, are highly regarded in the art community, making them a solid choice for both professional artists and hobbyists. The set includes 72 assorted colors, providing a wide range of vibrant and richly saturated pigments that are lightfast, meaning they resist fading over time. One of the standout features is the ultra-smooth, even color laydown, which makes shading and blending effortless, thanks to the soft and thick cores.

This quality ensures consistent results and makes the pencils versatile for various techniques, from sketching to detailed coloring. The thick, robust leads are designed to resist cracking and chipping, which is a big plus for durability and longevity. Additionally, the pencils are made in the USA, adding an extra layer of assurance about the product's quality.

While the price might be on the higher side compared to other colored pencils, the superior quality and performance justify the investment. The set is also well-packaged in a tin, making it convenient for storage and transport. However, one potential drawback is that the pencils' softness might result in quicker wear, necessitating more frequent sharpening. These colored pencils are ideal for anyone serious about their art, offering exceptional quality and a broad spectrum of colors, though they come at a premium price.

The KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils are an impressive option for anyone interested in art, whether you're an adult, kid, or a beginner. One of the standout features of this set is its vibrant color range; with 72 different hues, you're likely to find the perfect shade for any drawing or coloring project. The pencils are made with a soft core, allowing for smooth application and easy blending, which is excellent for creating depth in your artwork. Their break-resistant design adds to their durability, making them suitable for regular use.

In terms of quality, the pencils are crafted from high-quality basswood, which sharpens easily and produces a nice finish. While the soft core provides smooth application, it may not be ideal for all artists, especially those who prefer harder leads for fine details. Additionally, while the vibrant colors are great for adult coloring books, some users have expressed that the colors might not be as lightfast as professional-grade pencils, meaning they could fade over time under certain conditions.

The KALOUR pencils are also non-toxic and safe for children, making them a suitable gift for young budding artists. However, if you’re a more advanced artist looking for professional-grade materials, you might find these pencils somewhat lacking in comparison to higher-end brands. For the price point, they offer good value, especially as a starter set for those new to coloring and drawing. If you're looking for a reliable and colorful option to express your creativity, KALOUR's 72 Count Colored Pencils could be a delightful addition to your art supplies.

The Derwent Coloured Pencils, Inktense Ink Pencils offer a vibrant and versatile option for artists and hobbyists alike. With a range of 72 colors, these pencils feature a soft 4mm lead core that allows for bold and expressive artwork. Their high pigment concentration ensures your drawings will stand out with rich colors. One of the standout features is their water-soluble capability, which opens up creative avenues; you can use them dry for traditional drawing or add water for an ink-like effect. This dual functionality makes them ideal for various projects, from paper to fabrics like silk and cotton.

The pigments dry quickly and remain permanent, which means you won't have to worry about color bleeding when layering or placing colors next to each other. This is especially beneficial for artists who focus on precision and detail in their work. Additionally, the ability to mix colors and create lighter shades with water adds another layer of customization to your artistic expression.

These pencils are well-suited for adults and students looking to elevate their art projects with a premium, versatile product. Whether you're an experienced artist or a budding creator, the Derwent Inktense Pencils can enhance your artistic toolkit.