Best Drawing Pencils for Professional Artists

Drawing is a timeless art form that allows artists to express their creativity and imagination. Whether you’re a professional artist or just starting, having the right tools is crucial to creating stunning artwork. One of the most important tools for any artist is a good set of drawing pencils.

Drawing pencils come in a variety of types and sizes, each with its unique set of attributes that make it suitable for different drawing styles and techniques. Some pencils are soft and produce dark lines, while others are hard and produce lighter lines. The type of pencil you choose will depend on your drawing style and the effect you want to achieve.

When choosing the best drawing pencils, it’s essential to consider factors such as the lead quality, hardness, and texture. High-quality leads produce smooth and consistent lines, while low-quality leads can break easily and produce inconsistent lines. The hardness of the pencil determines how light or dark the lines will be, with harder pencils producing lighter lines and softer pencils producing darker lines. The texture of the pencil affects the way it feels in your hand and how it interacts with the paper.

After extensive research and testing, we have identified the best drawing pencils on the market. In this article, we will take a closer look at each of these pencils, their unique features, and why they are the best choice for artists of all levels. Whether you’re a professional artist or just starting, our guide will help you find the perfect set of drawing pencils to take your artwork to the next level.

Best Drawing Pencils

We know that finding the right drawing pencil can make all the difference in your artwork. That’s why we’ve researched and tested various pencils to bring you our top picks. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional artist, our list of the best drawing pencils will help you achieve the perfect lines and shading for your masterpiece.

1) Faber-Castell Graphite Sketch Pencil Set

If you’re looking for a versatile set of drawing pencils that produce smooth and balanced laydown, then the Faber-Castell Graphite Sketch Pencil Set is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The ergonomic, hexagonal shape of the pencils makes them comfortable to hold and use.
• The break-resistant lead ensures limitless drawing and easy sharpening.
• The set includes six pencils with different degrees of lead hardness, making them ideal for various drawing techniques.

Cons

• The set doesn’t come with a case or storage box.
• The pencils may be too hard for some users, making it difficult to produce darker shades.
• The pencils may be too soft for some users, making it difficult to produce lighter shades.

We recently tried out the Faber-Castell Graphite Sketch Pencil Set and were impressed with its performance. The pencils are pre-sharpened and feature break-resistant leads that are glued the entire length of the pencil to ensure the lead will not fall out during use or sharpening.

The set includes six pencils with different degrees of lead hardness: 2H, HB, B, 2B, 4B, and 6B. The finely ground graphite and clay mixture produces a smooth and balanced laydown, making the pencils ideal for sketching, graphic design, and shading.

We found the ergonomic, hexagonal shape of the pencils to be comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. The break-resistant lead ensures that we didn’t have to stop and sharpen the pencil frequently, allowing us to focus on our drawing.

The only downside we found with this set is that it doesn’t come with a case or storage box, making it difficult to keep the pencils organized and protected when not in use. Additionally, some users may find the pencils too hard or too soft for their liking, making it difficult to produce the desired shade.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality set of drawing pencils that produce smooth and balanced laydown, then the Faber-Castell Graphite Sketch Pencil Set is an excellent choice.

2) Mr. Pen- Sketch Pencils for Drawing, 14 Pack, Drawing Pencils, Art Pencils, Graphite Pencils, Graphite Pencils for Drawing, Art Pencils for Drawing and Shading

If you’re looking for a versatile set of pencils that can be used for various drawing and sketching techniques, Mr. Pen Sketch Pencils for Drawing, 14 Pack is a great option.

Pros

• The set includes a wide range of graphite hardness, from 6H to 10B, providing a variety of shading effects and line thicknesses.
• The pencils are made of high-quality materials and manufacturing processes, ensuring durable and unbeatable product quality.
• The super-bonded lead wears evenly and is easy to erase and sharpen.

Cons

• The tin case is not very deep, which may make it difficult to store additional pencils or drawing tools.
• The set does not include any colored pencils, which may limit its use for certain drawing techniques.
• The pencils may not be suitable for very detailed or intricate drawings, as some of the harder pencils may not leave enough graphite on the paper.

We recently tried out this set of pencils and were impressed with its overall quality and versatility. The range of graphite hardness allowed us to create various shading effects and line thicknesses, and the pencils were easy to erase and sharpen. The set comes in a convenient tin case, making it easy to transport and store.

The only downside we found was that the case is not very deep, which may make it difficult to store additional pencils or drawing tools. Additionally, the set does not include any colored pencils, which may limit its use for certain drawing techniques. However, overall we found the Mr. Pen Sketch Pencils for Drawing, 14 Pack to be a great value for the price and would recommend it to anyone looking for a versatile set of drawing pencils.

3) Nicpro Mechanical Pencils Set

If you’re looking for a reliable mechanical pencil set that offers a variety of lead sizes and hardness levels, the Nicpro Mechanical Pencils Set is a great option.

Pros

• The set comes with six mechanical pencils and 12 tubes of lead refills in different sizes and hardness levels, making it perfect for various drawing and sketching tasks.
• The full-metal body design provides a comfortable and ergonomic grip, ideal for fatigue-free writing and drawing.
• The set includes two types of anti-slip grips, rhombus textured rubber grips and metal threaded anti-skidding, making it easy to use in different scenarios.

Cons

• The set does not come with a handheld eraser, which might be inconvenient for some users.
• The cap of the 2.0mm mechanical pencil only has a sharpener, which might be a bit tricky to use.
• The set might not be suitable for professional artists who require more specialized tools.

The Nicpro Mechanical Pencils Set is a great value package that offers everything you need to get started with drawing and sketching. The set comes with six mechanical pencils in different sizes and hardness levels, making it perfect for various tasks. The full-metal body design provides a comfortable and ergonomic grip, ideal for fatigue-free writing and drawing. The set includes two types of anti-slip grips, rhombus textured rubber grips and metal threaded anti-skidding, making it easy to use in different scenarios.

One of the best things about this set is the variety of lead sizes and hardness levels it offers. The set comes with 12 tubes of lead refills in different sizes and hardness levels, including 0.5mm, 0.7mm, 0.9mm, and 2.0mm. The 2.0mm graphite pencil comes with 3 hardness lead, 2B, HB, and 2H, to create different darkness, perfect for your daily use, they don’t break easily, and write smoothly.

The set also features an ergonomic, comfortable design that provides ideal weight balance for fatigue-free writing and drawing or sketching. The lead advances easily at the touch of a click. There is a sharpener in the cap of 2.0 mm mechanical pencil. The set is perfect for teachers and students, artists, professionals, engineers alike. It’s perfect for writing, drafting, drawing, sketching, or architectural working. Back to the basics! it will also be a great gift for your kids, parents, other family members, and friends.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a reliable mechanical pencil set that offers a variety of lead sizes and hardness levels, the Nicpro Mechanical Pencils Set is definitely worth considering. It’s a great value package that offers everything you need to get started with drawing and sketching.

4) EGOSONG Professional Drawing Sketching Art Set

If you’re looking for a complete drawing set that has everything you need to create beautiful sketches, the EGOSONG Professional Drawing Sketching Art Set is a great choice.

Pros

• The set includes a wide variety of pencils, including graphite, colored, charcoal, and watercolor pencils, as well as blending stumps, erasers, and more.
• The pencils are made from high-quality materials and are designed to be smooth, durable, and break-resistant.
• The set comes with a portable carrying case that makes it easy to take your art supplies with you wherever you go.

Cons

• The set may be overwhelming for beginners who are not familiar with all the different types of pencils and tools.
• Some users have reported that the pencils are not as vibrant as they had hoped.
• The carrying case may be a bit bulky for some users.

In our experience, the EGOSONG Professional Drawing Sketching Art Set is an excellent choice for artists of all levels. The set includes everything you need to create beautiful sketches, and the high-quality materials ensure that your pencils will last a long time. We especially appreciate the variety of pencils included in the set, which allows you to experiment with different techniques and styles. The carrying case is also a nice touch, as it makes it easy to keep your art supplies organized and protected. Overall, we highly recommend this drawing set to anyone who wants to take their art to the next level.

5) Heshengping Drawing Pencils Set

If you’re looking for a complete set of drawing pencils, then the Heshengping Drawing Pencils Set is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The set includes 29 pieces, providing a wide range of options for different drawing techniques.
• The canvas roll bag makes it easy to store and carry the set, making it perfect for artists on the go.
• The set includes a variety of accessories, such as erasers and blending stumps, making it a complete kit for any artist.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the pencils are not as durable as they had hoped.
• The set does not include a ruler, which may be an inconvenience for some artists.
• The charcoal pencils may be too soft for some users’ preferences.

We recently had the chance to try out the Heshengping Drawing Pencils Set, and we were impressed with the variety of pencils and accessories included in the kit. The canvas roll bag is a nice touch, as it makes it easy to keep everything organized and transport the set to different locations.

The set includes a wide range of pencils, from 12B to 6H, providing options for both soft and hard lines. The charcoal pencils are also a nice addition, offering a different texture for shading and sketching. The accessories, such as the erasers and blending stumps, are also useful tools for any artist.

One potential downside is that some users have reported that the pencils are not as durable as they had hoped. However, we did not experience any issues during our testing. It’s also worth noting that the set does not include a ruler, which may be an inconvenience for some artists.

Overall, if you’re looking for a complete set of drawing pencils, then the Heshengping Drawing Pencils Set is definitely worth considering. It’s a great option for artists of all skill levels who are looking for a portable and comprehensive kit.

6) SWUKONART Colored Pencils Set 24 Colors

If you’re looking for a reliable and versatile set of colored pencils, then the SWUKONART Colored Pencils Set 24 Colors is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The range of bright and vibrant colors is impressive, and perfect for ultimate blending, shading, layering, and drawing shadows.
• The strong and reliable lead resists crack and chip, making these drawing pencils suitable for general use and sharpening.
• The high pigment content and 3.9mm thick core allow for powerful lines, delicate blends, and silky shadowing.

Cons

• The pencil tips can be prone to breaking if not sharpened carefully.
• The color names are not printed on the pencils themselves, which can be frustrating if you need to quickly identify a specific color.
• Some users have reported receiving pencils with broken tips or damaged packaging.

We were impressed with the quality and versatility of these colored pencils. The soft core and pre-sharpened design make them easy to use right out of the box, and the hexagon penholder and special softening treatment make them comfortable to hold and use.

We found that the pencils blended well and produced vibrant colors, and the strong lead core allowed for precision and control when drawing or coloring. The pencils are suitable for a range of ages and skill levels, from professional artists to students and teachers.

Overall, we would recommend the SWUKONART Colored Pencils Set 24 Colors to anyone looking for a reliable and versatile set of colored pencils that can be used for a range of artistic projects.

7) Cozii Drawing Pencils Set

If you’re looking for a complete drawing set with a wide range of pencils, charcoal, and pastels, the Cozii Drawing Pencils Set is a great option.

Pros

• The set includes 51 pieces, making it a comprehensive option for artists of all levels.
• The upgrade sketchbook has 30 pages and is made with quality paper, making it a convenient option for drawing on the go.
• The set includes a variety of graphite, charcoal, and pastel pencils, sticks, and tools, allowing for a wide range of techniques and styles.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the quality of the pencils could be better.
• The case may not be as durable as some users would like.
• The set may not be suitable for professional artists who require higher-quality materials.

We were impressed with the wide range of materials included in the Cozii Drawing Pencils Set. The set includes 12 graphite pencils, 1 woodless graphite pencil, 3 charcoal pencils, 4 pastel pencils, 1 pencil extender, 1 plastic sharpener, 1 double-hole sharpener, 1 small tool, 1 plastic eraser, 3 blending paper stumps, 1 masking tape, 1 kneaded eraser, 3 charcoal sticks, 3 graphite sticks, 4 charcoal willow sticks, 1 sandpaper pencil point, 2 binder clips, 6 colored pastel sticks, 1 sketch pad, and 1 carrying case with pop-up stand.

We found the upgrade sketchbook to be a convenient addition to the set. The activity page makes it easier to focus on training painting skills or sketching. The quality paper pad notebook is also a nice touch, providing a sturdy surface for drawing.

The set includes a wide range of graphite pencils, from 2H3H, 4H, 5H, HB, B, 2B, 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B to 8B, allowing for precise drawing lines. The charcoal pencils and sticks, as well as the graphite sticks, come in 3 hardness levels: soft, medium, and hard. This variety of art pencils for drawing and shading allows for the development of technical skills and is suitable for beginners or professional artists.

While some users have reported that the quality of the pencils could be better, we found them to be of decent quality for the price point. However, the case may not be as durable as some users would like. Additionally, the set may not be suitable for professional artists who require higher-quality materials.

Overall, we recommend the Cozii Drawing Pencils Set for beginners or hobbyists who want a comprehensive set of materials to experiment with.

8) Artisto Drawing and Sketching Pencil Art Set

If you’re looking for a complete set of drawing pencils that can help you unleash your creativity, the Artisto Drawing and Sketching Pencil Art Set is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The set offers a comprehensive range of drawing tools, including pencils of varying grades, charcoal sticks, blending tools, erasers, and sharpeners, making it a complete sketching arsenal.
• The charcoal pencils and white charcoal pencil allow you to experiment with striking contrasts and highlights, adding depth and dimension to your sketches.
• The blending stumps make it effortless to blend colors smoothly, giving your sketches a professional touch.

Cons

• The set may not be suitable for experienced artists who prefer specific brands or types of pencils.
• The charcoal sticks may be messy to work with, and the erasers may not be as effective in removing charcoal marks.
• The set may not come with detailed instructions or tutorials for beginners.

Overall, we believe the Artisto Drawing and Sketching Pencil Art Set is a great choice for artists of all levels who want a versatile toolkit to nurture their creative endeavors. With its comprehensive range of drawing tools, striking contrasts and highlights, and effortless blending, this set can help you bring your sketches to life with intricate details, bold lines, and smooth shading.

9) Mr. Pen Sketch Pencils for Drawing

If you’re looking for a set of drawing pencils that offer versatility, convenience, and quality, then the Mr. Pen Sketch Pencils set is a great choice.

Pros

• The set includes a wide range of graphite pencils from 6H to 10B, allowing for detailed work or shading.
• The set comes with two standard erasers, making it easy to make corrections without interrupting your creative flow.
• The included metal sharpener ensures that your pencils stay sharp for precision in every stroke.

Cons

• The set only includes two graphite pieces in both soft and hard grades, which may not be enough for those who need a wider range of charcoal options.
• The body shape of the pencils is round, which may not be comfortable for those who prefer a triangular shape.
• The point type of the pencils is broad, which may not be suitable for those who prefer a finer point.

The Mr. Pen Sketch Pencils set is a great value for its price. The pencils are high-quality and offer a good range of hardness levels, making them versatile for different types of artwork. The included erasers and sharpener are a nice touch and make it easy to keep your work clean and precise.

We found that the pencils were easy to use and provided a smooth drawing experience. The metal sharpener works well and keeps the pencils sharp, while the erasers are effective in removing unwanted marks without leaving residue. We also appreciated the compact and sturdy tin that the set comes in, making it easy to transport and store.

Overall, we would recommend the Mr. Pen Sketch Pencils set to anyone looking for a good quality set of drawing pencils that offer versatility and convenience.

10) STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Art Drawing Pencils

If you’re looking for a high-quality set of drawing pencils, then the STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Art Drawing Pencils may be the perfect choice for you. With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars and over 10,000 ratings on Amazon, this set is a popular choice among artists and designers.

Pros

• The lead in these pencils is unbelievably break-resistant, making them a durable choice for any artist.
• The set includes 12 finely graded consistent degrees, ranging from 6B to 4H, which makes it a versatile choice for a wide range of drawing applications.
• The super-bonded lead wears evenly and is easy to erase and sharpen, which means you can spend more time creating and less time worrying about the quality of your tools.

Cons

• The metal storage tin can be difficult to open and close, which may be frustrating for some users.
• Some users have reported that the pencils can be a bit scratchy, particularly when used on certain types of paper.
• The price point of this set may be a bit higher than some other options on the market, which may be a consideration for those on a tight budget.

Overall, we highly recommend the STAEDTLER Mars Lumograph Art Drawing Pencils for anyone who is serious about their art and wants a set of high-quality pencils that will last for a long time. The set is versatile, durable, and easy to use, making it a great choice for both beginners and professionals alike.

In our experience, we found that the lead was indeed very break-resistant, which was a huge plus. We also appreciated the range of degrees included in the set, which allowed us to experiment with different levels of shading and detail. However, we did find that the metal storage tin was a bit tricky to open and close, which was a minor inconvenience.

Overall, though, we were very impressed with the quality of these pencils and would definitely recommend them to anyone who is looking for a reliable set of drawing tools.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying drawing pencils, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some factors to consider:

Lead Hardness

The hardness of the lead is an important factor to consider when selecting a drawing pencil. Pencils are labeled with a number and letter combination that indicates the hardness of the lead. The higher the number, the harder the lead. For example, a 2H pencil has a harder lead than a 2B pencil. Harder leads are better for fine lines and details, while softer leads are ideal for shading and blending.

Lead Quality

The quality of the lead is another important factor to consider. High-quality leads are made from a combination of graphite and clay, which creates a smooth and consistent line. Cheaper leads may contain impurities that can cause the line to be uneven or break easily.

Comfort and Grip

Drawing pencils come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so it’s important to choose one that’s comfortable to hold. Some pencils have a hexagonal shape that provides a better grip, while others have a round or triangular shape. Additionally, some pencils have a rubberized coating or ergonomic design that can reduce hand fatigue during long drawing sessions.

Price

The price of drawing pencils can vary widely depending on the brand, quality, and type of pencil. While it may be tempting to opt for the cheapest option, investing in a higher-quality pencil can make a big difference in the quality of your artwork. However, it’s important to find a balance between quality and price that works for your budget.

By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when selecting a drawing pencil that will help you create your best work.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated pencil brands for professional artists?

When it comes to professional artists, some of the top-rated pencil brands are Faber-Castell, Staedtler, and Caran d’Ache. These brands offer high-quality pencils that are perfect for detailed work and shading.

Which pencils are recommended for beginners learning to draw and shade?

For beginners, we recommend starting with a set of graphite pencils that include a range of grades, such as 2H, HB, and 2B. Some good options are the Staedtler Mars Lumograph set or the Faber-Castell 9000 set. These pencils are easy to use and provide a good range of tones for shading.

How do mechanical pencils compare to traditional ones for drawing purposes?

Mechanical pencils are a great option for drawing purposes, especially for those who prefer a consistent line width. However, traditional pencils are still preferred by many artists for their ability to create a wide range of tones and textures. Ultimately, the choice between mechanical and traditional pencils comes down to personal preference.

What are the best graphite pencil grades for detailed drawing work?

For detailed drawing work, we recommend using pencils in the 2H to 2B range. 2H pencils provide a harder lead that is great for fine details, while 2B pencils offer a softer lead that is perfect for shading and creating darker tones.

Can you suggest a professional drawing pencil set for advanced artists?

For advanced artists, we suggest investing in a high-quality pencil set such as the Caran d’Ache Grafwood or the Faber-Castell Polychromos. These sets offer a wide range of graphite grades and are perfect for creating detailed and intricate drawings.

What are the differences between HB and 2B pencils when it comes to sketching?

HB and 2B pencils are both great for sketching, but they offer different levels of darkness. HB pencils have a harder lead and create lighter lines, while 2B pencils have a softer lead and create darker lines. Which one to use depends on the desired effect and personal preference.