Best Pencils for Artists and Writers in 2024

Pencils are a staple in every student’s backpack, artist’s studio, and office desk. They are versatile, easy to use, and come in a variety of styles, colors, and lead types. Whether you’re taking notes in a lecture, sketching a portrait, or drafting a blueprint, the right pencil can make all the difference.

When it comes to finding the best pencils, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the lead type. Pencils come in four main lead types: graphite, charcoal, colored, and mechanical. Each has its unique properties and is suitable for different tasks. The second factor is the pencil’s hardness or softness, which is indicated by the H and B scale. The higher the H number, the harder the lead, while the higher the B number, the softer the lead.

Another crucial aspect to consider is the pencil’s construction. The pencil’s body can be made from various materials, including wood, plastic, and metal. The type of material used can affect the pencil’s weight, durability, and environmental impact.

At our publication, we spent hours researching and testing various types of pencils to identify the ones that offer the best performance, durability, and value. In the following sections, we will discuss the different types of pencils, their pros and cons, and what to look for when buying a pencil. Whether you’re an artist, student, or professional, we’ve got you covered.

Best Pencils

We have scoured the market to bring you the best pencils available today. From the classic wooden pencil to the high-tech mechanical pencil, we have tested and reviewed a wide range of options to help you find the perfect writing tool. Whether you are a student, an artist, or just someone who loves to jot down notes, we have got you covered. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best pencils on the market.

1) Amazon Basics Woodcased #2 Pencils

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable option for writing, drawing, or sketching, then the Amazon Basics Woodcased #2 Pencils are a great choice.

Pros

• The #2 HB medium-soft lead is strong, smooth, and versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of tasks.
• The top eraser is effective at removing unwanted marks, and the pencils are smudge-free and latex-free.
• With a box of 30 pre-sharpened pencils, this product offers great value for money.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the lead can break easily if the pencil is dropped or mishandled.
• The lack of grip on the pencil may make it uncomfortable to hold for extended periods of time.
• The orange color of the pencil may not be to everyone’s taste.

In our experience, the Amazon Basics Woodcased #2 Pencils are a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable writing instrument. The lead is smooth and easy to write with, and the eraser does a good job of removing mistakes. The fact that the pencils come pre-sharpened is a nice touch, and the price point is hard to beat.

That being said, we did notice that the lead can break somewhat easily if the pencil is dropped or mishandled, so you’ll want to be careful when using them. Additionally, the lack of grip on the pencil may make it uncomfortable to hold for extended periods of time, especially if you’re doing a lot of writing or drawing.

Overall, we think that the Amazon Basics Woodcased #2 Pencils are a great value for anyone in need of a reliable and affordable writing instrument. If you’re looking for something that gets the job done without breaking the bank, then this is definitely worth considering.

2) Ticonderoga Wood-Cased Pencils

If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality pencil, Ticonderoga Wood-Cased Pencils are an excellent choice.

Pros

• The exclusive graphite formula provides extra smooth performance, delivering broad, consistent lines.
• The premium wood harvested from responsibly managed forests makes for even sharpening with minimal breakage.
• The superior, latex-free eraser removes marks completely without smudging.

Cons

• The pencils may be more expensive than other brands, but the quality is worth it.
• The yellow lacquer may not be everyone’s favorite color.
• The pack size may be too large for some users.

We have been using Ticonderoga pencils for years and have never been disappointed. The graphite formula truly does provide smooth and consistent lines, making writing and drawing a breeze. The wood is of high quality and sharpens easily without breaking. The eraser is also top-notch, removing marks completely without leaving smudges.

One thing to note is that these pencils may be a bit pricier than other brands, but the quality is worth it. Additionally, the yellow lacquer may not be everyone’s favorite color. Lastly, the pack size of 30 may be too large for some users.

Overall, if you’re looking for a trusted and reliable pencil, Ticonderoga Wood-Cased Pencils are an excellent choice.

3) Blackwing Pearl Pencils

If you’re looking for a high-quality pencil that’s perfect for writing, drawing, or sketching, then the Blackwing Pearl Pencils are an excellent choice.

Pros

• With its balanced and smooth Japanese graphite core, the Blackwing Pearl Pencils are perfect for illustrators, UI/UX designers, and woodworkers.
• The iconic rectangular erasers are synonymous with quality, and each of our pencils features a specially designed ferrule, allowing you to extend or replace the eraser.
• Made with the finest materials in the world, including Genuine Incense-cedar from California and premium Japanese graphite, Blackwing Pearl Pencils are built to last.

Cons

• These pencils are expensive compared to other high-end pencils.
• The line may be softer than the Blackwing 602, but firmer than the Blackwing.
• The eraser may not last as long as you’d like, especially if you’re using it frequently.

We’ve been using Blackwing Pearl Pencils for a while now, and we can confidently say that they’re one of the best pencils on the market. The Japanese graphite core is smooth and balanced, making it ideal for a wide range of applications. Whether you’re a writer, artist, or just someone who appreciates a good pencil, the Blackwing Pearl Pencils are an excellent choice.

One of the standout features of these pencils is the iconic rectangular eraser. Not only does it look great, but it’s also designed to last. The ferrule is specially designed to allow you to extend or replace the eraser, so you don’t have to worry about running out of eraser halfway through a project.

Another thing we love about the Blackwing Pearl Pencils is the quality of the materials used to make them. Genuine Incense-cedar from California and premium Japanese graphite are just two of the high-quality materials that go into making these pencils. You can tell just by holding one in your hand that it’s a well-made product.

Of course, there are a few downsides to these pencils. They’re expensive compared to other high-end pencils, so they may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget. Additionally, the line may be softer than the Blackwing 602, but firmer than the Blackwing, which may not be to everyone’s liking. Finally, the eraser may not last as long as you’d like, especially if you’re using it frequently.

Overall, we highly recommend the Blackwing Pearl Pencils. They’re a high-quality product that’s perfect for anyone who takes their writing, drawing, or sketching seriously. Plus, with a portion of the sales going to the Blackwing Foundation, you can feel good about your purchase knowing that you’re helping to fund arts and music education for kids.

4) Ticonderoga Wood-Cased Pencils

If you’re looking for a reliable and high-quality pencil, Ticonderoga Wood-Cased Pencils are a great choice.

Pros

• The exclusive #2 graphite formula provides extra smooth performance and broad, consistent lines.
• The premium wood is harvested from responsibly managed forests and provides smooth, even sharpening with minimal breakage.
• The latex-free eraser removes marks completely without smudging and is securely glued in the signature green & gold ferrules.

Cons

• Some users may find the price point slightly higher than other brands.
• The black lacquer finish may show smudges and fingerprints more easily than other finishes.
• The pack size may not be suitable for those who require a larger quantity of pencils.

In our experience, Ticonderoga Wood-Cased Pencils have consistently provided a smooth and reliable writing experience. The graphite formula delivers bold and consistent lines, making these pencils ideal for both writing and drawing. The premium wood used in the pencils ensures a smooth sharpening experience with minimal breakage, making them a great choice for students and professionals alike.

The latex-free eraser is a standout feature of these pencils. It removes marks completely without smudging and is securely attached to the pencil, so you won’t lose it while using the pencil. The green and gold ferrules add a touch of elegance to the pencils, making them a great choice for gift-giving or personal use.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality pencil that delivers consistent performance, Ticonderoga Wood-Cased Pencils are definitely worth considering. Their dependability and craftsmanship make them a trusted choice among teachers and professionals.

5) S & E TEACHER’S EDITION 96Pcs Half Pencils with Eraser Tops, Golf Pencil, Classroom, Pew – # 2 HB Pre-Sharpened Hexagon, 96 Count Bulk Pack 96 Pcs

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable set of pencils, the S & E TEACHER’S EDITION 96Pcs Half Pencils with Eraser Tops, Golf Pencil, Classroom, Pew – # 2 HB Pre-Sharpened Hexagon, 96 Count Bulk Pack 96 Pcs is a great option.

Pros

• These pencils are made from high-quality wood, which makes them easy to sharpen and protects the lead from breaking.
• The soft, smudge-free, latex-free eraser is secured to the end of the pencil, making it convenient to wipe away mistakes.
• The pack comes with 96 pre-sharpened pencils, making it a great value for the price.

Cons

• The pencils are shorter than standard size pencils, which may not be comfortable for some users.
• The eraser may wear down quickly with heavy use.
• The lead may be too light for those who prefer a darker line.

We have used these pencils in our office and found them to be a reliable option for everyday use. The pencils are easy to sharpen and write smoothly, making them ideal for drawing and sketching. The eraser is effective at removing mistakes and is conveniently located at the end of the pencil.

While the shorter length of the pencils may not be comfortable for everyone, we found them to be a great option for on-the-go use or for smaller hands. The pack comes with 96 pencils, making it a great value for the price. We also appreciate the manufacturer’s refund guarantee, which provides added peace of mind.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and affordable set of pencils, the S & E TEACHER’S EDITION 96Pcs Half Pencils with Eraser Tops, Golf Pencil, Classroom, Pew – # 2 HB Pre-Sharpened Hexagon, 96 Count Bulk Pack 96 Pcs is a great option to consider.

6) SKKSTATIONERY Half Pencils with Eraser Tops, Golf Pencils, 4 inch Mini Pencils, Classroom, Pew – #2 HB, Hexagon, Pre-sharpened, 96/Box. 1 Box-96

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable set of mini pencils, SKKSTATIONERY’s Half Pencils with Eraser Tops is a great option.

Pros

• The high-quality leads are durable and break-resistant, making them ideal for drawing and sketching.
• The soft, smudge-free, and latex-free eraser is secured to the end of the pencil for conveniently wiping away mistakes.
• The pencils are made from high-quality wood, making them easy to sharpen and protecting the leads.

Cons

• The pencils may not last as long as full-sized pencils, so they may need to be replaced more frequently.
• The small size may not be comfortable for everyone to use for extended periods of time.
• The pencils may not be suitable for heavy use or professional art projects.

Overall, we think SKKSTATIONERY’s Half Pencils with Eraser Tops are a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable set of mini pencils for score keeping, classrooms, events, or everyday use. The high-quality leads and wood, along with the soft and smudge-free eraser, make these pencils a great value for the price. However, if you need pencils for heavy use or professional art projects, you may want to consider a different option.

7) Nicpro Mechanical Pencil Set

We highly recommend the Nicpro Mechanical Pencil Set for anyone who needs a reliable and efficient writing instrument.

Pros

• The fast click mechanism allows for quick and easy lead extension and retraction, making writing and drawing more convenient.
• The lightweight and portable design makes it easy to carry around in your pocket or backpack, making it perfect for students and professionals on the go.
• The ergonomic grip design provides a comfortable and non-slip grip, reducing hand fatigue and improving overall writing experience.

Cons

• Some users may prefer a thicker lead size for bolder lines and shading.
• The included eraser may not be as effective on certain types of paper or ink.
• The pastel color options may not be suitable for those who prefer traditional black or gray mechanical pencils.

The Nicpro Mechanical Pencil Set is a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable and efficient writing instrument. The fast click mechanism allows for quick and easy lead extension and retraction, making writing and drawing more convenient. The lightweight and portable design makes it easy to carry around in your pocket or backpack, making it perfect for students and professionals on the go. Additionally, the ergonomic grip design provides a comfortable and non-slip grip, reducing hand fatigue and improving overall writing experience.

One potential drawback of the Nicpro Mechanical Pencil Set is that some users may prefer a thicker lead size for bolder lines and shading. Additionally, the included eraser may not be as effective on certain types of paper or ink. Finally, the pastel color options may not be suitable for those who prefer traditional black or gray mechanical pencils.

Overall, we believe that the Nicpro Mechanical Pencil Set is a great choice for anyone who needs a reliable and efficient writing instrument. Its convenient design and comfortable grip make it a great choice for students and professionals alike.

8) SKKSTATIONERY Colorful Pencils

If you’re looking for an affordable set of colorful pencils, SKKSTATIONERY Colorful Pencils are a great option for you.

Pros

• The pencils are made from high-quality wood, so they sharpen easily and write smoothly.
• The set includes 144 pencils with eraser tops in 12 different colors, making it a great value for the price.
• The pencils are safe and non-toxic, so they can be used by both adults and kids.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the erasers on the pencils don’t work well and tend to smudge the lead.
• A few customers have reported that the labels for the colors Cobalt Blue and Cream Beige were interchanged.
• The designs on the pencils may not be appealing to everyone.

In our experience, the SKKSTATIONERY Colorful Pencils are a great choice for anyone who needs a large set of pencils in a variety of colors. The pencils are made from high-quality wood, which makes them easy to sharpen and write with. The set includes 144 pencils with eraser tops, which is a great value for the price.

However, some customers have reported that the erasers on the pencils don’t work well and tend to smudge the lead. Additionally, a few customers have reported that the labels for the colors Cobalt Blue and Cream Beige were interchanged. Finally, the designs on the pencils may not be appealing to everyone.

Overall, we think that the SKKSTATIONERY Colorful Pencils are a great option for anyone who needs a large set of pencils in a variety of colors. They are safe and non-toxic, so they can be used by both adults and kids. If you’re looking for an affordable set of colorful pencils, we would definitely recommend giving these a try.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying the best pencils, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some important factors to keep in mind:

Lead Type

The lead type is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a pencil. Different lead types are suitable for different purposes. For example, if you need a pencil for writing, a softer lead like a 2B or 3B may be a good choice, as it will produce darker lines. On the other hand, if you need a pencil for technical drawing, a harder lead like an H or 2H may be a better option, as it will produce lighter lines that are easier to erase.

Lead Hardness

The hardness of the lead is another important factor to consider. Pencils are typically labeled with a number and letter combination, such as 2H or 4B, which indicates the hardness of the lead. The higher the number, the harder the lead. Harder leads are better for fine detail work, while softer leads are better for shading and blending.

Grip

The grip of the pencil is also an important consideration. A good grip can make the pencil more comfortable to hold and can help prevent hand fatigue. Look for pencils with a comfortable grip that is easy to hold, even for extended periods of time.

Eraser

Finally, consider the eraser that comes with the pencil. Some pencils come with a built-in eraser, while others require a separate eraser. Look for pencils with a high-quality eraser that is effective at removing marks without smudging or damaging the paper.

By considering these factors when choosing a pencil, you can ensure that you select the best product for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated pencils for professional artists?

For professional artists, we recommend pencils that offer a high level of precision and control. The Staedtler Mars Lumograph pencils are a popular choice among artists for their consistent lead quality and wide range of hardness grades. Another great option is the Faber-Castell 9000 pencils, which are known for their smooth and even lines.

Which pencils are recommended for long writing sessions?

If you’re someone who spends a lot of time writing, we suggest choosing pencils that are comfortable to hold and have a good grip. The Uni Kuru Toga Roulette pencils are a great option for their ergonomic design and rotating lead mechanism, which helps to reduce fatigue and prevent hand cramps. Another good choice is the Pentel GraphGear 1000, which features a dual-action retractor and a cushioned grip for added comfort.

What features distinguish the best mechanical pencils for students?

When it comes to mechanical pencils for students, we recommend choosing pencils that are durable and easy to use. The Pentel Twist-Erase III is a popular choice among students for its long-lasting eraser and comfortable grip. Another great option is the Zebra M-701, which features a sturdy stainless steel barrel and a convenient eraser under the push button.

How do the best pencils for children differ from standard options?

Pencils for children should be easy to hold and use, with a focus on safety and durability. The Ticonderoga Beginners pencils are a great option for younger children, with a larger barrel size and a thicker lead that resists breaking. For older children, the Staedtler Norica pencils are a good choice for their sturdy construction and easy-to-sharpen lead.

What makes a pencil brand stand out in quality and reliability?

A high-quality pencil brand should offer consistent lead quality, durability, and a wide range of hardness grades to choose from. Some of the most popular brands among artists and writers include Staedtler, Faber-Castell, and Pentel. These brands have a reputation for producing reliable and long-lasting pencils that consistently perform well.

What characteristics define the most ergonomic pencils for comfortable use?

Ergonomic pencils should be designed with comfort in mind, with a focus on reducing hand fatigue and preventing cramps. Some key features to look for include a comfortable grip, a balanced weight distribution, and a smooth and easy-to-use lead mechanism. The Uni Kuru Toga Roulette and Pentel GraphGear 1000 are both great options for their ergonomic design and comfortable grip.