10 Best Colored Pencils 2025 in the United States

Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils offer a large and vibrant collection of 150 colors, making them well-suited for adults who enjoy detailed coloring, sketching, or art projects. Their soft, thick cores are ideal for smooth shading and blending, which artists often appreciate for creating rich, even layers of color. The pigments are lightfast, meaning your artwork will resist fading over time, which is a big plus if you want your pieces to last.

The strong, durable leads reduce the chance of breakage, which can be frustrating during use. While these pencils come at a higher price point compared to basic sets, their quality and variety justify the cost for serious hobbyists or artists looking for dependable, vibrant pencils. However, the soft cores may wear down quicker than harder types, so they may require more frequent sharpening.

Beginners who prefer harder pencils for precision or less blending might find these less ideal. These colored pencils are excellent for those seeking rich colors and smooth application and are willing to invest in quality, but casual users might find them more than they need.

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 Faber-Castell Polychromos Artists' Color Pencils are highly regarded in the world of art supplies, particularly for those who take their coloring seriously. With a range of 120 vibrant colors, these pencils offer an impressive palette that can cater to various artistic needs, making them suitable for both professionals and art enthusiasts. One of their standout features is unsurpassed lightfastness, which ensures that the colors remain vibrant and do not fade over time, ideal for works meant for display or long-term preservation.

The oil-based formulation of these pencils allows for smooth application and easy blending, enabling artists to create layered effects without much effort. The break-resistant leads add to their durability, making them a reliable choice for extended use, especially in a classroom or studio environment. Plus, Faber-Castell's reputation for high-quality art materials since 1761 reassures buyers about the product’s value.

The price point is on the higher side compared to other colored pencils, which might deter casual users or beginners. While these pencils are designed for artists, those who are just dabbling in coloring might find them more than what they need. Furthermore, the core hardness being rated as 'H' means that they may not be as soft as some artists prefer for certain techniques, potentially requiring a bit more pressure when applying color.

The Faber-Castell Polychromos Colored Pencils are a premium option best suited for serious artists who appreciate quality, durability, and versatility in their tools. While they come with a higher price tag, the benefits in performance and longevity make them a worthy investment for those who will use them regularly.