10 Best Quality Colored Pencils 2026 in the United States

Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils in a 36-count pack are highly regarded for their richly saturated pigments and ultra-smooth color laydown. These pencils are specifically designed for adults and are ideal for shading and creating smooth transitions due to their soft, thick cores. They also boast excellent lightfastness, meaning the colors are resistant to fading over time, which is a significant advantage for artists looking to preserve their work's vibrancy.

The cores are robust and designed to resist cracking and chipping, which makes them durable and reliable for detailed work, such as adult coloring books or intricate drawings. Additionally, the pencils are well-constructed with quality wood, ensuring ease of sharpening and longevity. The range of 36 colors provides a good variety for most artistic needs, although more extensive sets are available for those requiring a broader color spectrum.

One potential drawback is that the soft cores may require frequent sharpening, which could be a minor inconvenience for some users. However, the build quality and the performance in blending and shading make these pencils a solid choice for both amateur and professional artists who value vibrant, long-lasting colors.

The Faber-Castell Polychromos Artists' Color Pencils offer a premium experience for both professional artists and art enthusiasts. With 120 colors presented in a sturdy metal tin, these pencils deliver vibrant and long-lasting results thanks to their high pigment quality and superior lightfastness, meaning the colors resist fading over time. The oil-based leads ensure smooth and easy blending, allowing for seamless layered effects in your artwork.

The 3.8 mm leads are thick and SV-bonded, making them break and water-resistant, which is a significant benefit for durability and longevity. However, the hardness of the pencil core (rated H) may require more pressure to achieve darker tones, which could be a minor inconvenience for those who prefer softer leads. The construction quality is consistent with Faber-Castell's reputation for excellence in art materials since 1761, providing reliable performance.

The wide color range ensures versatility for various artistic projects. Although marketed as suitable for kids, the premium quality and price point make them more fitting for serious artists or hobbyists rather than casual use.

The KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils set is a versatile option for both adults and kids, making it a suitable choice for a wide range of users, from beginners to those engaging in more detailed art projects. One of its standout features is the vibrant pigment quality, ensuring that the colors are vivid and lively when applied.

With 72 different colors, artists have a broad palette to choose from, which can be particularly useful for detailed coloring and drawing tasks. The soft core of these pencils allows for smooth application and seamless blending, which is beneficial for creating gradients and layering colors.

Additionally, the pencils are made of high-quality basswood, making them easy to sharpen and reducing the risk of breakage, which can be a common issue with colored pencils. The pencils are also marketed as non-toxic and safe for kids, adhering to safety standards, making them a good gift option for children above the age of 5. These colored pencils are well-suited for general use, including school projects and adult coloring books.