10 Best Soft Colored Pencils 2025 in the United States

The Crayola Colored Pencils Set (120ct) is a vibrant and versatile option for both kids and adults. It offers an impressive range of 120 colors, which allows for extensive creativity and detailed artwork. The pre-sharpened tips are convenient, allowing users to start coloring immediately, and the smooth, creamy texture of the pencils makes them easy to blend and layer. This would be particularly beneficial for those who enjoy adult coloring books and intricate designs.

The high-quality materials ensure that the pencils are durable and long-lasting, suitable for both home and classroom use. However, the product is primarily aimed at children, as indicated by the age recommendation of 5 years and up. This might mean that the pigment quality and softness of the core may not meet the expectations of professional artists who seek more intense and varied pigmentation.

Additionally, while the pencils are easy to use and sharpen for general purposes, they may not provide the precision and fine control needed for highly detailed professional artwork. The set is an excellent choice for children, beginners, and casual artists looking for a reliable and extensive range of colors for their projects.

The KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils are designed for artists, hobbyists, and beginners who appreciate vibrant colors and smooth application. With 72 different shades, this set offers an extensive range that can cater to various artistic projects, whether for coloring books or drawing. The high pigment quality stands out, allowing for vivid and rich color laydown, which is ideal for blending and shading techniques. The soft core of these pencils enhances the coloring experience, making it easy to create smooth gradients and layers of color.

One of the significant advantages of these pencils is their durability; the break-resistant cores ensure that they withstand frequent use without snapping easily. Additionally, the pencils are made of high-quality basswood, which simplifies sharpening and helps maintain a fine point for detailed work.

However, there are a few points to consider. While the softness of the core is beneficial for coloring, it may not hold up well for precise lines or intricate details, which might be a drawback for some artists. Furthermore, the pencils may require more frequent sharpening when used heavily, which can be a minor inconvenience. The KALOUR set is especially suitable for adults and children aged 5 and up, making it a versatile option for families or classrooms. It’s also a fantastic gift choice given its non-toxic materials and the joy of exploring colors.

The Faber-Castell Polychromos Artists' Color Pencils in a tin of 120 colors are highly regarded for their premium quality. These pencils excel in several areas vital for art enthusiasts and professionals alike. The pigment quality is exceptional, offering vibrant, long-lasting colors due to their unsurpassed lightfastness, which means the colors resist fading over time.

The core's softness ensures a smooth and buttery laydown, making blending and layering effortless. The oil-based leads enhance blendability, allowing for rich, nuanced artwork. The range of 120 colors provides a comprehensive palette, ensuring that artists can find the exact shades they need for their projects. Durability is another strong point, with thick, SV-bonded leads that resist breaking and are also water-resistant, making them last longer and perform well under different conditions.

However, it's important to note that while the leads are durable, the pencils themselves are made of wood and may require frequent sharpening to maintain a fine point. Thankfully, they are relatively easy to sharpen, which helps in keeping them ready for detailed work. One potential drawback is the higher cost, which might be a consideration for hobbyists or beginners. Despite this, the investment is often justified by the superior quality and performance. These pencils are particularly well-suited for serious artists, students in advanced art courses, and anyone looking to invest in high-quality art supplies that deliver professional results.