10 Best Colored Pencils For Artists 2025 in the United States

Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils are a popular choice for artists who enjoy sketching and coloring with rich, vibrant colors. These pencils have soft, thick cores that make shading and blending smooth and easy, which is great when you want to create gradients or shadows. The pigments are richly saturated and lightfast, meaning your artwork will hold its color well over time without fading. With 36 assorted colors, you get a good range to work with, though professional artists might find the selection somewhat limited compared to larger sets.

The pencil leads are designed to be thick and sturdy, so they’re less likely to break or chip—this durability is especially helpful if you’re coloring in detailed adult coloring books or use a lot of pressure while drawing. However, because the cores are soft, they sharpen faster and might need more frequent sharpening compared to harder pencils, which could be a minor inconvenience.

These pencils are best suited for beginners and hobbyists who want a lively color experience with easy blending, rather than for those needing extremely precise lines or very hard, fine points. If you want a dependable, smooth coloring experience with strong pigment and decent durability, Prismacolor Premier is a solid pick.

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.