10 Best Colored Pencils For Artists 2025 in the United States

The Faber-Castel 110060 Polychromos Colored Pencil Set is a popular choice among artists, offering 60 vibrant colors stored in a convenient metal tin. The pigment quality is excellent, allowing for rich and vivid colors that can be applied with both delicate and bold strokes. This set stands out for its high lightfastness, meaning the colors are resistant to fading over time, an important feature for artists concerned with the longevity of their work.

The pencils have a medium hardness (rated H), making them versatile for various techniques, from shading to fine details. They blend well, which is crucial for creating smooth transitions and gradients in coloring projects. Durability is another strong point, as the pencils are designed to withstand heavy use without breaking easily.

However, some users may find the medium hardness less ideal for extremely soft blending or very detailed work compared to softer or harder pencils. Additionally, while the 60-color range is substantial, professional artists might prefer sets with even more colors for greater flexibility. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Faber-Castel 110060 Polychromos set is highly rated by users, reflected in its impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars from over 4,000 reviews, making it a reliable choice for both amateur and professional artists looking for quality colored pencils.

The KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil Set stands out for its vast color range and vibrant pigments, making it an excellent choice for artists who need a wide variety of colors for their creations. The set includes 180 pencils, with 12 metallic ones, providing a rich palette for artistic expression. The pigments are described as silky smooth and velvety, which suggests an enjoyable drawing experience with a rich color payoff.

Additionally, the soft core is ideal for blending and layering colors, which is crucial for creating detailed and nuanced artwork. The pencils are made from high-quality basswood, ensuring they are easy to sharpen and durable, although the soft core may be more prone to breakage if not handled carefully. The product comes in a sturdy tin case with a built-in tray, making it easy to keep the pencils organized and protected, which is beneficial for artists who need to transport their materials.

This set is particularly suitable for adult artists, beginners, and even kids who are serious about their art. Its affordability and extensive color range make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to expand their coloring and drawing tools.

The Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils set is a fantastic choice for artists at any skill level, thanks to its rich pigment quality and impressive lightfastness. With 72 assorted colors, these pencils offer a broad color range that allows for vibrant artwork. The soft, thick cores make shading and blending a breeze, providing an ultra-smooth application that produces even color laydown. Additionally, the durability of the leads minimizes the risk of cracking and chipping, which is a significant advantage for both beginners and experienced users alike.

These colored pencils are particularly well-suited for artists looking to create dynamic and detailed work with ease. They are especially beneficial for anyone who appreciates smooth blending and rich colors.