10 Best Colored Pencils 2025 in the United States

Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils offer a large and vibrant collection of 150 colors, making them well-suited for adults who enjoy detailed coloring, sketching, or art projects. Their soft, thick cores are ideal for smooth shading and blending, which artists often appreciate for creating rich, even layers of color. The pigments are lightfast, meaning your artwork will resist fading over time, which is a big plus if you want your pieces to last.

The strong, durable leads reduce the chance of breakage, which can be frustrating during use. While these pencils come at a higher price point compared to basic sets, their quality and variety justify the cost for serious hobbyists or artists looking for dependable, vibrant pencils. However, the soft cores may wear down quicker than harder types, so they may require more frequent sharpening.

Beginners who prefer harder pencils for precision or less blending might find these less ideal. These colored pencils are excellent for those seeking rich colors and smooth application and are willing to invest in quality, but casual users might find them more than they need.

The Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, Soft Core, 36 Count, are designed primarily for adults who enjoy coloring and shading. One of the standout features is the soft, thick cores which make these pencils ideal for creating smooth, even color layers, and achieving rich shading and shadows.

They are praised for their lightfastness, meaning the colors are resistant to fading over time, which is a crucial feature for artists who want their work to last. The color range includes 36 different shades, providing a good variety for most artistic needs, although some may wish for a larger selection. The robust leads are designed to resist cracking and chipping, adding to their durability and making them suitable for frequent use in adult coloring books.

Prismacolor is a well-known brand with a strong reputation in the art community. If you are looking for high-quality colored pencils with excellent performance in shading and durability, and are willing to invest a bit more, these could be a great choice.

The KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils are an impressive option for anyone interested in art, whether you're an adult, kid, or a beginner. One of the standout features of this set is its vibrant color range; with 72 different hues, you're likely to find the perfect shade for any drawing or coloring project. The pencils are made with a soft core, allowing for smooth application and easy blending, which is excellent for creating depth in your artwork. Their break-resistant design adds to their durability, making them suitable for regular use.

In terms of quality, the pencils are crafted from high-quality basswood, which sharpens easily and produces a nice finish. While the soft core provides smooth application, it may not be ideal for all artists, especially those who prefer harder leads for fine details. Additionally, while the vibrant colors are great for adult coloring books, some users have expressed that the colors might not be as lightfast as professional-grade pencils, meaning they could fade over time under certain conditions.

The KALOUR pencils are also non-toxic and safe for children, making them a suitable gift for young budding artists. However, if you’re a more advanced artist looking for professional-grade materials, you might find these pencils somewhat lacking in comparison to higher-end brands. For the price point, they offer good value, especially as a starter set for those new to coloring and drawing. If you're looking for a reliable and colorful option to express your creativity, KALOUR's 72 Count Colored Pencils could be a delightful addition to your art supplies.