10 Best Watercolor Pens 2025 in the United States

The CHROMATEK 54 Watercolor Pens Set is a great choice for artists of all skill levels, especially those who appreciate vibrant colors and easy blending. One of its major strengths is the variety it offers; with 50 unique colors and four blending aquapens, artists can explore numerous techniques and styles. The brush tips are flexible and designed like real paintbrushes, allowing for smooth strokes and detailed work. Additionally, the included video tutorial series is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to improve their watercolor skills, making the learning process more structured and engaging.

The professional art pad included is a nice touch, as it features high-quality paper that complements the watercolor pens well. However, it only contains a limited number of practice pages and templates.

The CHROMATEK watercolor pens set stands out for its color range, ease of blending, and helpful tutorials, making it suitable for both budding and experienced artists. Just be mindful of the potential for some color inconsistencies and ensure proper storage to avoid any issues while on the go.

The Winsor & Newton Promarker set, with 48 essential colors, is a strong contender in the watercolor pen category. One of its standout features is the dual tips—fine bullet nibs for detailed work and broad chisel nibs for coverage. This versatility makes it suitable for various applications, including drawing, illustration, and crafts, appealing especially to artists who enjoy both precision and broader strokes.

The ink quality is impressive, utilizing high-quality alcohol-based inks that offer vibrant colors and a remarkable tonal range. Artists can expect consistent, streak-free coverage, which is crucial when blending or layering colors. However, it’s worth noting that while these markers excel in layering, they're not traditional water-soluble watercolor pens, meaning they don’t dissolve in water like some other watercolor mediums.

The color range is extensive, with 48 shades that allow for a creative palette. The fast-drying nature of the inks is a plus, as it enables artists to work quickly without worrying about smudging, yet this may also mean that it can be challenging to blend colors if not done promptly. Ease of use is another strong point; the markers are designed for accessibility, making them suitable for both beginners and more experienced artists. They can be used on various surfaces, including paper, glass, and plastic, adding to their versatility. However, the alcohol-based ink can have a strong odor, which might not be ideal for everyone, especially those sensitive to smells or working in confined spaces.

The Tombow 56179 Dual Brush Pen Art Markers set includes 108 vibrant colors, offering an impressive range that is perfect for anyone interested in detailed artwork, journaling, or hand lettering. Each pen features a flexible brush tip on one end and a fine tip on the other, providing versatility in creating both broad strokes and fine lines. The water-based ink is odorless, non-bleeding, and blends smoothly, which makes it great for watercolor effects and layering colors without mess.

The included marker case neatly holds all pens, keeping your workspace organized and making it easy to transport. While the large number of colors is fantastic for creative freedom, it might be a bit overwhelming for beginners who just want a simpler set. Also, the brush tips require some practice to control well, especially if you’re new to brush pens.

However, the inks’ consistent quality and the dual-tip design make this set a solid choice for hobbyists and more experienced artists looking for a reliable, versatile watercolor pen collection.