10 Best Watercolor Pens 2026 in the United States

The Ohuhu Markers set offers a generous selection of 160 vibrant colors, making it great for anyone who enjoys rich variety in their artwork. Its dual tips—a fine 0.4mm fineliner and a soft, flexible brush tip—allow for detailed work as well as broader strokes and blending, which is ideal for watercolor-style effects. The water-based ink is acid-free, non-toxic, and odorless, making it safe and comfortable to use for both adults and kids.

Because the ink is water-soluble, you can create beautiful watercolor washes and gradients, especially when used with the right type of paper. However, thinner papers like regular notebooks may experience some bleeding, so it's best paired with heavier mixed media or watercolor paper for optimal results. The set also comes with replacement tips and a color swatch card, helping you keep organized and extend the life of your markers.

With such a large number of colors, beginners might find the palette a bit overwhelming. Additionally, to maintain the markers, you need to recap them quickly after use to prevent drying out. This set is well-suited for hobbyists and artists looking for a versatile, colorful marker kit that can handle both fine details and painterly techniques, provided they invest in good paper and are mindful of proper storage.

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.