10 Best Writing Pencils 2026 in the United States

The BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils are a solid choice for everyday writing activities, particularly in school or office settings. The pencils feature a versatile 0.7mm medium point, making them suitable for a wide range of writing tasks. The hardness grade is HB, which is ideal for standardized tests and general writing, ensuring that the lead is not too soft or too hard. Users will appreciate that these pencils do not need sharpening; the lead advances with a simple click, providing convenience and ease of use.

The high-quality lead is designed to be smudge-resistant and erases cleanly, which helps keep your work tidy and professional-looking. The included erasers are built-in and functional, although they might not be the highest quality available, they get the job done for most basic erasing needs. The ribbed grip offers some comfort during extended writing sessions, though it may not be as cushioned or ergonomic as other higher-end pencils.

The pencils are made of plastic, which keeps them lightweight but might not appeal to users looking for a more premium feel. With a 40-count pack, these pencils are great for bulk use, ensuring that you always have a pencil on hand when needed. The BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils provide a reliable and economical option for students and professionals alike.

The BIC Xtra-Precision Mechanical Pencil is a reliable choice for everyday writing tasks, especially for adults and students needing neat, precise lines. It features a 0.5mm fine point lead with an HB hardness grade, which is a good balance for smooth writing and moderate darkness—suitable for tests, notes, and light sketching. The lead is designed not to smudge and erases cleanly, which helps keep your work tidy and hands clean. These pencils have a ribbed plastic grip that offers decent comfort during extended use, though it may not provide the cushioned feel that some premium mechanical pencils have. The build uses plastic, graphite, and rubber, making them lightweight but less durable if dropped frequently.

The included eraser does its job well, erasing marks clearly without excessive residue. Being sold in a large 24-count pack makes this pencil an economical option for classrooms or offices where multiple users need dependable pencils. However, if you prefer pencils with softer grips or a wider range of lead hardness for artistic purposes, this might feel a bit basic.

This pencil is an excellent pick for standardized tests, everyday writing, and light drafting tasks where precision and cleanliness matter.

Derwent Chromaflow Pencils are a set of 150 colored pencils designed for professional artists. The pencils feature a 3.5mm round core, providing strong and blendable colors perfect for drawing, coloring, and layering. The vibrant, creamy core ensures smooth laydown and is resistant to breakage, which is beneficial for pressure handling during artistic techniques.

The pencils come in a tin storage case, making them convenient for both studio and on-location use. They fit standard pencil sharpeners and are suitable for adult artists seeking professional-quality tools at an affordable price. However, the pencils do not include an eraser, which might be a drawback for some users who frequently need to correct mistakes.

Additionally, the round barrel design may not provide the best grip comfort compared to ergonomic or triangular designs. Despite these minor shortcomings, these pencils are ideal for professional artists looking for high-quality, blendable colored pencils for various artistic techniques.