Issue #93308 • 2025-12-21

Colored Pencils: Explore the Best for Art and Coloring 2025 hero background
Art Supplies

Discover Top-Coloured Pencils for 2025

Unleash your creativity with the best coloured pencils available today.

Content last updated 2025-12-21

Introduction

Coloured pencils are a staple in the artistic toolbox, bridging the gap between professional-grade art supplies and simple, enjoyable colouring tools. In 2025, the market offers a vibrant array of options, catering to both seasoned artists and budding creators. This category matters because it provides a versatile medium that allows for detailed work or expansive colour fills. The variety of lead types-from soft and waxy to hard and precise-means that artists can achieve different effects, whether blending colours or creating sharp lines. Understanding these nuances helps consumers select the right products for their specific projects. As we explore the best coloured pencils, we'll consider factors such as pigment quality, blending ability, and price points to help you make an informed decision.

After thoroughly researching Amazon's marketplace, I've handpicked these standout options for your consideration.

At a Glance

Crayola 100 Count
⚡ Best Performance ⭐ Top Rated Prime

4.8 out of 5 stars (19,845 reviews)
Crayola 100 Count Colored Pencils for Vibrant Art
Crayola's 100 Count Colored Pencils stand out with their vibrant hues and pre-sharpened convenience. Designed from re-forested wood, these pencils are eco-friendly and perfect for adult colouring enthusiasts. Users appreciate the thick, soft leads that resist breaking even under pressure, making them ideal for detailed artwork.

Quality and Sustainability

The Crayola 100 Count Colored Pencils are crafted from re-forested wood, ensuring that each pencil contributes to environmental sustainability. This commitment to eco-friendliness is a major plus for conscious consumers. The pencils feature thick, soft leads that provide smooth application and vibrant colour laydown, which is crucial for both adult colouring books and artistic projects. Their pre-sharpened design allows immediate use, appealing to both beginners and seasoned artists alike.

User Experience and Performance

With a high rating of 4.8/5 from nearly 20,000 reviews, these pencils are well-received in the market. Users frequently mention the ease of blending and shading, attributing it to the quality of the lead. The vibrant colours allow for creative expression, making them a favourite among artists looking for both quality and variety in their colour palette. The pencils are manufactured in Brazil, further adding to their appeal for users interested in international product sourcing.

What We Love
  • Eco-friendly re-forested wood
  • Thick leads resist breakage
  • Vibrant colour selection
  • Pre-sharpened for immediate use
  • Great for blending and shading
The Trade-offs
  • Limited colour range compared to larger sets
  • May not suit professional artists' needs
  • Not water-resistant
  • Higher price point than basic sets

KALOUR 72 Count

4.4 out of 5 stars (7,813 reviews)
KALOUR 72 Count Soft Core Colored Pencils Set
The KALOUR 72 Count Pencil Crayons offer a vibrant array of colours ideal for both beginners and seasoned artists. Each pencil features a unique number and name for easy identification. The soft core design allows for smooth application, making them perfect for blending and shading.

Design and Features

This set comprises 72 vibrant colours, allowing users to explore their creativity with ease. Each pencil is made of high-quality basswood, which enhances durability and makes sharpening a breeze. The soft core leads deliver a silky smooth application, ideal for blending and layering techniques. This set is particularly well-suited for adult colouring books, making it an excellent gift for both novice and experienced artists.

Market Position and Feedback

Ranked #12 in its category with a market share of 4.7%, the KALOUR 72 Count set has garnered a solid reputation, with a rating of 4.4/5 from over 7,800 reviews. Users often highlight the ease of colour identification due to the unique numbering system, which simplifies the creative process. The price point is also competitive, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers.

What We Love
  • Wide range of vibrant colours
  • Easy to sharpen
  • Soft core for smooth application
  • Ideal for blending and shading
  • Unique numbering for easy color identification
The Trade-offs
  • Not as pigmented as premium brands
  • Limited availability in stores
  • May require frequent sharpening
  • Durability may vary with heavy use

Crayola 120 Count
⭐ Top Rated Prime

4.8 out of 5 stars (9,893 reviews)
Crayola 120 Count Colored Pencils with Unique Colors
Crayola's 120 Count Colored Pencils provide an extensive selection of unique colours, perfect for any artistic endeavour. The pre-sharpened design allows for immediate use, while the non-toxic materials ensure safety for all ages.

Comprehensive Colour Range

The Crayola 120 Count Colored Pencils feature an impressive variety of hues with no repeat colours, ensuring that artists have access to a comprehensive palette. This set is ideal for anyone looking to explore a wide range of artistic techniques, from detailed adult colouring to more complex illustrations. The inclusion of newly introduced colours adds an exciting element to the collection, appealing to both children and adults.

User Experience and Versatility

With a rating of 4.8/5 from nearly 10,000 reviews, these coloured pencils are well-loved for their smooth application and vibrant pigmentation. Users appreciate the pre-sharpened feature, which means they can start creating right out of the box. The non-toxic composition makes these pencils safe for children, further broadening their appeal.

What We Love
  • Extensive colour variety
  • No repeat colours
  • Pre-sharpened for convenience
  • Non-toxic materials
  • Great for various art styles
The Trade-offs
  • Premium pricing compared to smaller sets
  • Some users report inconsistent lead quality
  • Limited blending capabilities
  • Not suitable for professional-grade work

PRISMACOLOR Scholar 60
⭐ Top Rated 👑 Iconic Prime

4.6 out of 5 stars (8,915 reviews)
PRISMACOLOR Scholar 60 Assorted Art Pencils Set
The PRISMACOLOR Scholar Colored Pencils are a fantastic choice for beginners and aspiring artists. With a focus on quality, these pencils offer smooth leads perfect for blending and shading, making them an excellent addition to any art supply collection.

Quality and Performance

Designed specifically for beginning artists, the PRISMACOLOR Scholar Colored Pencils feature soft, smooth leads that provide superior blending and shading capabilities. The rich, vibrantly pigmented colours are ideal for creating stunning artwork, and the hardened cores help resist breakage, ensuring longevity. This 60-pack set is a perfect starter kit for anyone looking to delve into the world of coloured pencil art.

User Feedback and Market Position

With a rating of 4.6/5 from over 8,900 reviews, these pencils are highly regarded among art students and teachers. The durable packaging allows for easy transportation and storage, making them a practical choice for students. Their competitive price point and quality performance have secured them a position as a top choice in the market, ranking #6 in their category.

What We Love
  • Soft leads for easy blending
  • Richly saturated pigments
  • Durable packaging
  • Ideal for beginners
  • Cost-effective for quality
The Trade-offs
  • Limited colour range compared to premium sets
  • Not as durable for heavy use
  • May require frequent sharpening
  • Less suitable for advanced techniques

AmazonBasics 48 Count
🚀 Best Premium ⭐ Top Rated

4.6 out of 5 stars (30,538 reviews)
AmazonBasics 48 Count Colored Pencils Set for Art
The AmazonBasics 48-Count Colored Pencils offer great value for those looking to explore their artistic side. With artist-quality soft lead, these pencils provide rich pigment and smooth application, making them suitable for various art projects.

Affordability and Accessibility

AmazonBasics has positioned this 48-count set as an affordable option for budding artists and hobbyists. The quality of the soft lead allows for rich pigment application, which is crucial for achieving vibrant artwork. The included tin storage case not only keeps the pencils organized but also makes transport easy, appealing to artists on-the-go.

User Insights and Versatility

With a solid rating of 4.6/5 from over 30,000 reviews, users commend the smooth application and colour richness. These pencils are versatile enough for both fine detail work and broader strokes, making them a suitable choice for a variety of artistic techniques. The budget-friendly nature of this set makes it a popular option among students and casual artists.

What We Love
  • Affordable price point
  • Artist-quality soft lead
  • Includes a storage tin
  • Versatile for different techniques
  • Smooth application
The Trade-offs
  • Limited colour selection
  • Not as durable as premium brands
  • May not perform on all surfaces
  • Less suitable for professional use

AmazonBasics 24 Count
💰 Best Value ⭐ Top Rated

4.6 out of 5 stars (30,538 reviews)
AmazonBasics 24 Count Colored Pencils Set for Beginners
The AmazonBasics 24-Count Colored Pencils are perfect for beginners and casual artists. With a focus on quality and affordability, these pencils deliver a smooth application with rich pigments, making them a great choice for various art projects.

Compact and Convenient

This 24-count set from AmazonBasics is designed for those who want a manageable selection of colours without the overwhelm of larger sets. The soft lead provides smooth application, allowing for blending and layering without difficulty. The tin storage case is a thoughtful addition, ensuring that the pencils remain organized and protected.

Market Reception and Use Cases

With a rating of 4.6/5 from a large number of reviews, users appreciate the affordability and practical design of this set. While it may not have the extensive colour range of higher-priced options, it serves well for basic projects and casual use. This makes it an ideal starting point for children and those new to art.

What We Love
  • Affordable and accessible
  • Compact size for easy use
  • Smooth application
  • Includes protective tin case
  • Great for casual art projects
The Trade-offs
  • Limited colour variety
  • Not suitable for professional artists
  • Less durable than premium models
  • May require frequent sharpening

KALOUR 120 Count

4.5 out of 5 stars (5,324 reviews)
KALOUR 120 Count Premium Colored Pencils Set
The KALOUR Premium Colored Pencils are a top choice for serious artists. With a set of 120 vibrant colours, these pencils are perfect for drawing, sketching, and shading, making them ideal for both beginners and experienced users.

Extensive Colour Palette

This set of 120 colored pencils offers an impressive variety of shades, allowing artists to explore their creativity without limitations. Each pencil is designed with a soft core that lays down vibrant colour, perfect for blending and layering techniques. The inclusion of a colorless blender pencil adds versatility, enabling users to create unique effects.

User Feedback and Market Position

Ranked #13 in its category with a solid market share, the KALOUR set boasts a rating of 4.5/5 from over 5,300 reviews. Users often praise the richness of the colours and the smooth application. The pencils are also designed to be non-toxic, making them a safe option for users of all ages, enhancing their appeal.

What We Love
  • Large variety of colours
  • Soft core for smooth application
  • Includes extra blending tools
  • Non-toxic and safe for all ages
  • Great for detailed artwork
The Trade-offs
  • Higher price point than basic sets
  • Some users report breakage
  • Bulky packaging may not be portable
  • Requires careful handling

Crayola 36 Count
🏆 Best Overall 🎯 Editor's Choice ⭐ Top Rated Prime

4.8 out of 5 stars (36,554 reviews)
Crayola 36 Count Long Pre-sharpened Colored Pencils
Crayola's 36 Count Colored Pencils are designed for those who appreciate quality and convenience. These long, pre-sharpened pencils feature thick cores for smooth application, making them suitable for adult colouring projects.

Quality and Performance

These colored pencils are designed with thick, intensely coloured cores that provide smooth and rich laydown. The pre-sharpened feature means artists can start using them right away, which is particularly appealing for those who want to dive straight into their projects. The premium quality materials also ensure durability, allowing for long-lasting use.

User Reception and Versatility

With a high rating of 4.8/5 from over 36,000 reviews, these pencils are a favourite among users. They are praised for their vibrant colours and ease of use, making them great for adult colouring as well as children's art projects. The long design helps in achieving intricate details, appealing to a wide audience.

What We Love
  • Thick, vibrant cores
  • Pre-sharpened for immediate use
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Great for detailed work
  • Suitable for various age groups
The Trade-offs
  • Limited colour range compared to larger sets
  • Not as versatile for professional use
  • May not blend as well as softer leads
  • Higher price compared to basic options

PRISMACOLOR PREMIER 36
👑 Iconic Prime

4.5 out of 5 stars (11,003 reviews)
PRISMACOLOR PREMIER 36 Assorted Colored Pencils Set
The PRISMACOLOR PREMIER Colored Pencils offer a premium experience for artists seeking high-quality materials. With rich, lightfast pigments and soft cores, these pencils are ideal for shading and blending, making them a staple for serious art projects.

Premium Quality and Design

These colored pencils feature soft, thick cores that are designed for smooth, even colour laydown. The lightfast pigments ensure that the colours will remain vibrant over time, making them suitable for professional artists as well as hobbyists. The robust leads resist cracking and chipping, which is essential for maintaining quality during use.

Market Position and User Feedback

Ranked among the top 10 performers in their category, the PRISMACOLOR PREMIER set boasts a rating of 4.5/5 from over 11,000 reviews. Users appreciate the quality of the pigments and the flexibility of the pencils for various techniques, such as layering and blending. This set is particularly popular among those engaged in detailed artwork and adult colouring.

What We Love
  • Soft cores for easy blending
  • Lightfast and vibrant pigments
  • Robust leads for durability
  • Versatile for various artistic techniques
  • Highly rated by professional artists
The Trade-offs
  • Premium pricing may be a barrier
  • Limited colour selection in smaller sets
  • May not suit casual users
  • Requires careful handling to avoid breakage

Prismacolor Junior 48
⭐ Top Rated Prime

4.8 out of 5 stars (4,469 reviews)
Prismacolor Junior 48 Soft Core Colored Pencils Set
The Prismacolor Junior 48 Pack offers a wide range of vibrant colours, perfect for young artists. With soft cores designed for easy blending, these pencils are ideal for drawing and sketching.

Quality Craftsmanship

The Prismacolor Junior Colored Pencils are crafted to inspire creativity in young artists. The soft core pencils provide rich, saturated colours that are easy to blend, making them suitable for both beginners and more experienced users. The variety of colours allows for diverse artistic expression, enhancing the overall creative experience.

User Reception and Suitability

With a solid market position and positive user feedback, these pencils are recognized for their quality and performance. They are particularly suitable for children and young adults seeking to explore their artistic talents. The packaging, which converts into an easel, adds a fun and functional element to the product.

What We Love
  • Vibrant, rich colours
  • Soft cores for easy blending
  • Fun and functional packaging
  • Ideal for young artists
  • Encourages creativity
The Trade-offs
  • Premium pricing may deter budget-conscious buyers
  • Limited durability for heavy use
  • Not as suitable for professional artists
  • Fewer colours compared to larger sets

HIFORNY 55 Pack

4.5 out of 5 stars (1,890 reviews)
HIFORNY 55 Pack Colored Pencils Set with Extras
The HIFORNY 55 Pack Colored Pencils set includes a variety of vibrant colours along with extra tools, ideal for both beginners and experienced artists. The soft core leads ensure smooth application and blending, making this set a great choice for creative projects.

Comprehensive Set and Features

The HIFORNY set includes 52 coloured pencils, a colorless blender pencil, an HB sketch pencil, and a DIY colour chart, providing users with a complete artistic toolkit. Each pencil features a unique name and number for easy identification, which is beneficial during detailed colouring projects. The soft core leads are designed for smooth application, enabling effortless blending and shading.

User Reception and Versatility

This set has received positive feedback for its affordability and comprehensive features. Users appreciate the extra tools, such as the blending pencil and sketch pencil, which enhance the creative process. The vibrant colours allow for a wide range of artistic expression, making it suitable for various art projects.

What We Love
  • Includes extra drawing tools
  • Variety of vibrant colours
  • Soft leads for smooth application
  • Unique numbering for easy identification
  • Great for beginners and experts
The Trade-offs
  • May not be as durable for heavy use
  • Limited availability in stores
  • Some users report inconsistent quality
  • Requires careful handling to avoid breakage

Crayola 24 Packs

4.9 out of 5 stars (2,437 reviews)
Crayola 24 Packs of 12-Count Colored Pencils
Crayola's 24 Packs of 12-Count Colored Pencils are perfect for schools and home projects. With soft cores that blend smoothly, these pencils provide vibrant colours that are ideal for various artistic applications.

Versatile and Practical

This set of Crayola's 24 packs, each containing 12 coloured pencils, offers an ample supply for classrooms or group activities. The soft cores are designed to lay down colour smoothly, making them suitable for mixing and blending. Their portability makes them a practical choice for both home and school use.

User Insights and Market Position

With a high rating of 4.9/5 from 2,437 reviews, these coloured pencils are well-received among educators and parents alike. The non-toxic formulation ensures safety for users of all ages, making this set a reliable choice for children and adults engaging in creative projects.

What We Love
  • Ideal for schools and group activities
  • Soft cores for easy blending
  • Portable packaging
  • Non-toxic and safe for all ages
  • High user satisfaction
The Trade-offs
  • Limited colour range per pack
  • Not as suitable for professional use
  • May require frequent sharpening
  • Less durable than premium brands

Crayola 2 Pack 12 Count
⭐ Top Rated Prime

4.8 out of 5 stars (5,032 reviews)
Crayola 2 Pack of 12 Count Colored Pencils Set
The Crayola 2 Pack of 12 Count Colored Pencils offers a convenient and affordable option for those looking to engage in creative activities. The soft cores provide smooth colour application, making them suitable for various projects.

Compact and Convenient

This 2-pack set from Crayola contains 12 coloured pencils in each pack, making it a practical choice for users who need a compact selection. The soft cores ensure easy application and blending, allowing for versatility in use. This compact design is particularly appealing for students or those who enjoy colouring on-the-go.

User Reception and Practicality

With a solid rating of 4.8/5 from over 5,000 reviews, these pencils are appreciated for their reliability and performance. Users often highlight the affordability and convenience of having a two-pack set, making it an excellent choice for casual artists or children.

What We Love
  • Affordable and practical
  • Compact size for portability
  • Soft cores for smooth application
  • High user satisfaction
  • Ideal for children and beginners
The Trade-offs
  • Limited colour variety
  • Not as durable for heavy use
  • May require frequent sharpening
  • Less suitable for professional artists

Faber-Castell 60 Pack
⭐ Top Rated Prime

4.8 out of 5 stars (4,124 reviews)
Faber-Castell Polychromos 60 Artists' Color Pencils Set
The Faber-Castell Polychromos Colored Pencils are renowned for their premium quality. With a tin of 60 vibrant colours, these artists' pencils are perfect for professional use, featuring break-resistant leads and excellent colour laydown.

Exceptional Craftsmanship

Faber-Castell's Polychromos pencils are known for their high-quality construction and performance. The 3.8mm leads are soft and vibrant, providing smooth application and rich colour laydown. These pencils are designed to resist breakage, making them ideal for both detailed work and broader strokes. The acid-free and lightfast pigments ensure long-lasting artwork.

Market Position and User Feedback

With a rating of 4.8/5 from over 4,100 reviews, these pencils are a favourite among professional artists and serious hobbyists. The premium pricing reflects the quality and performance, making them a worthwhile investment for those seeking top-tier materials for their artwork.

What We Love
  • Premium quality and performance
  • Break-resistant leads
  • Rich, vibrant colours
  • Acid-free and lightfast pigments
  • Ideal for professional artists
The Trade-offs
  • High price point
  • Not suitable for casual users
  • Limited colour range in smaller sets
  • Requires careful handling to avoid breakage

COLORCHIEF 50 Count

4.6 out of 5 stars (422 reviews)
COLORCHIEF 50 Count Soft Core Colored Pencils Set
The COLORCHIEF 50 Count Colored Pencils offer a vibrant selection at an affordable price. With soft cores designed for smooth application, these pencils are perfect for adult colouring and artistic expression.

Complete Set for Art Enthusiasts

This 50-count set includes a range of colours, each featuring a unique name and number for easy identification. The soft core leads allow for smooth application, making blending and shading effortless. This set is perfect for both beginners and experienced artists looking to elevate their colouring experience.

User Insights and Versatility

With a solid rating of 4.6/5 from over 400 reviews, users appreciate the quality and affordability of these pencils. The packaging is designed to keep pencils organized, and the overall design caters to a wide audience, making it an excellent choice for gifting.

What We Love
  • Vibrant colour selection
  • Soft cores for easy application
  • Unique numbering for easy identification
  • Affordable pricing
  • Great for various art projects
The Trade-offs
  • Limited availability in stores
  • Some users report breakage issues
  • Not as durable for professional use
  • Requires careful handling to avoid damage

Frequently Asked Questions

When selecting colored pencils, consider the number of colours, lead softness, and whether they are pre-sharpened. For instance, the Crayola 100 Count offers 100 vibrant colours with thick leads that resist breakage, while the Crayola 120 Count provides 120 unique colours pre-sharpened for immediate use.

Yes, many colored pencils are suitable for professional artwork. For example, the PRISMACOLOR Scholar 60 features soft, smooth leads designed for blending and shading, making them ideal for artists, while the PRISMACOLOR PREMIER 36 offers richly saturated pigments that enhance colour quality.

Colored pencils generally require minimal maintenance. It's essential to keep them sharp for optimal performance, which can be easily done with a sharpener. The KALOUR 120 Count includes a sharpener in its set, ensuring your pencils are always ready for use.

Prices can vary significantly based on brand and features. For example, the KALOUR 72 Count is an affordable option at CAD21.99 for 72 pencils, while the premium Faber-Castell 60 Pack is priced at CAD146.36 for 60 high-quality pencils. Consider your budget and needs when selecting.

Yes, brands like Crayola and Prismacolor are well-known for their quality colored pencils. The Crayola 100 Count and Crayola 120 Count from Crayola are popular for their durability and vibrant colours, while the PRISMACOLOR PREMIER 36 from Prismacolor is praised for its pigment quality and blending capabilities.

Soft core colored pencils, like those in the AmazonBasics 48 Count and KALOUR 120 Count, provide a smooth application and rich pigmentation, making them ideal for blending and shading techniques. They are less likely to break under pressure, enhancing the overall drawing experience.

Yes, colored pencils can be used on various paper types, including sketch paper, watercolor paper, and even canvas. For best results, consider using thicker paper to prevent warping, especially with wet techniques, as seen with the HIFORNY 55 Pack which also includes a blending pencil for smooth transitions.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, selecting the right coloured pencils can significantly enhance your artistic experience. Look for sets that offer a range of colours, blendability, and durability. Consider your specific needs-whether you're a casual colourist or an aspiring artist-and choose products that align with your creative goals. The right tools can inspire your creativity and elevate your projects. So, dive into the world of coloured pencils and unleash your artistic potential!

Start your artistic journey today!