10 Best Colored Pencils 2026 in the United States

The Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, Soft Core, 36 Count, are designed primarily for adults who enjoy coloring and shading. One of the standout features is the soft, thick cores which make these pencils ideal for creating smooth, even color layers, and achieving rich shading and shadows.

They are praised for their lightfastness, meaning the colors are resistant to fading over time, which is a crucial feature for artists who want their work to last. The color range includes 36 different shades, providing a good variety for most artistic needs, although some may wish for a larger selection. The robust leads are designed to resist cracking and chipping, adding to their durability and making them suitable for frequent use in adult coloring books.

Prismacolor is a well-known brand with a strong reputation in the art community. If you are looking for high-quality colored pencils with excellent performance in shading and durability, and are willing to invest a bit more, these could be a great choice.

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.