10 Best Eyeliner Pencils 2026 in the United States

The Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil in 'Perversion' is a standout product for those seeking a versatile and reliable eyeliner. One of its major strengths lies in its award-winning, long-lasting, and waterproof formula. It promises up to 16 hours of wear, making it ideal for long days or events where you need your makeup to stay put. The color 'Perversion' is a matte blackest black, offering a bold and intense look that suits various styles and occasions.

Another benefit is its creamy, glide-on formula enriched with hydrating ingredients like Vitamin E, jojoba oil, and cottonseed oil, which not only ensure smooth application but also condition the delicate skin around your eyes. This eyeliner is smudge-proof and transfer-proof, reducing the need for frequent touch-ups. Additionally, it can be used in multiple ways, such as an eye liner, eye shadow, or base, adding to its versatility.

While its creamy texture makes for easy application, some users might find it can smudge during application if not careful. Furthermore, the pencil's softness might require frequent sharpening, which can be a minor inconvenience. Those looking for vibrant color options will appreciate the variety in this product line, though the specific color in this review is limited to matte black. This eyeliner is well-suited for those who prioritize long wear, ease of use, and a bold finish, with the added benefit of hydration and skin conditioning.

The Clinique Quickliner For Eyes is an automatic pencil eyeliner designed to be easy to use since it doesn’t require sharpening. This makes it convenient for quick application, especially for beginners or anyone on the go. The formula is smooth and delivers a rich, pigmented color in a shade called Slate, which is a versatile, soft gray that works well for everyday looks without being too harsh like black. It has a mostly natural finish, leaning towards matte with a subtle sheen that helps define the eyes without looking overly shiny.

One of its standout features is its long-lasting, water- and smudge-resistant formula. This means you can expect the liner to stay put throughout the day with minimal fading or smearing, which is great if you have oily eyelids or live in humid climates. The product is also gentle enough for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, being ophthalmologist tested and fragrance-free, which reduces the risk of irritation.

The pencil-style eyeliner might not create extremely sharp or precise lines compared to liquid liners, so it may not be ideal if you prefer very dramatic or graphic eye looks. While the Slate color is versatile, those looking for bolder or more vivid colors might find the shade options limited in this specific listing. This eyeliner pencil is a solid choice for anyone seeking a reliable, easy-to-use liner that lasts long and is safe for sensitive eyes. It suits everyday makeup routines well but might not fully satisfy users wanting very bold colors or ultra-precise application.

Julep's When Pencil Met Gel Eyeliner Pencil in Rich Brown offers a versatile and long-lasting option for eyeliner enthusiasts. As a sharpenable pencil, it combines the ease of a traditional pencil with the smooth application of a gel, making it suitable for both top lash lines and waterlines. The highly pigmented formula ensures intense, saturated color that stays put for over 10 hours, which is ideal for long days or nights out.

The matte finish of the Rich Brown shade provides a sophisticated look that can be easily smudged for a smoky effect before it sets. With over 20 shades available in both matte and shimmer finishes, there are plenty of options to suit different preferences and occasions. Ophthalmologist-tested, it is safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

However, as it requires a separate sharpener, it may be less convenient for those who prefer twist-up pencils. Additionally, its creamy texture, while smooth, may require a light touch to avoid breakage. This eyeliner is a great choice for anyone seeking a reliable, high-performing pencil with a variety of color options.