Finding the best colored pencil sets changed how I approach art. Over the past three years, I have tested dozens of brands from budget options under $15 to professional-grade sets costing over $100. What surprised me most was how much difference quality makes—not just in color vibrancy, but in how pencils feel on paper and how long they last.
Colored pencil sets vary enormously in quality. Some budget pencils feel scratchy and break constantly. Others blend like butter and hold their point through hours of detailed work. After testing 12 popular sets side-by-side, I discovered clear winners for different needs and budgets. This guide shares what I learned about pigment quality, core durability, and which brands actually deliver on their promises.
Whether you are a beginner filling your first adult coloring book or a professional artist creating sellable work, the right colored pencil set makes all the difference. I found excellent options under $15 for casual use and professional-grade pencils worth every penny for serious artists. Here are my top recommendations for 2026.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Colored Pencil Sets 2026
These three sets stood out from everything I tested. They represent the best combination of quality, value, and performance across different price ranges.
Prismacolor Premier 150 Count
- Soft thick cores
- 150 vibrant colors
- Excellent blending
- Lightfast pigments
Castle Art Supplies 72 Count
- 72 soft core pencils
- Buttery laydown
- Color-coded sets
- Tin storage box
Soucolor 72-Color Set
- 72 vibrant colors
- Soft break-resistant cores
- Budget-friendly
- Pre-sharpened
Best Colored Pencil Sets in September
Here is a quick overview of all 12 sets I tested. Each offers something different depending on your skill level, budget, and artistic goals.
1. Prismacolor Premier 150 Count – Professional Artist Grade
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, Soft Core, Assorted Colors, 150 Count – Durable, Vibrant, Ultra-Smooth, Adult Coloring, Drawing, Sketching, Arts & Crafts
150 assorted colors
Soft thick cores
Lightfast pigments
Weight: 2.94 lbs
Pros
- Wide 150-color range
- Ultra-smooth blending
- Brilliant lightfast pigments
- Thick break-resistant leads
Cons
- Premium price point
- Not pre-sharpened
When I first opened the Prismacolor Premier 150-count set, the color range immediately impressed me. With 150 shades, I found every hue I needed for botanical illustrations and portrait work. The pencils arrived in a convenient wooden case that keeps colors organized and protected.
What sets Prismacolor apart is the soft, thick core design. Each pencil lays down color smoothly without scratching or skipping. I tested blending on Bristol paper and achieved seamless gradients with minimal effort. The pigment concentration is exceptional—colors pop vibrantly on the page.
After three months of regular use, I noticed the leads resist breaking better than expected for soft-core pencils. They sharpen cleanly and hold a fine point for detailed work. The lightfast pigments mean artwork retains its vibrancy over time, which matters for professional pieces.
Best For
Professional artists and serious hobbyists will appreciate the Prismacolor Premier 150 Count most. If you sell your artwork or create pieces meant to last, the lightfast pigments and superior blending make this investment worthwhile. The extensive color range eliminates the need for frequent mixing.
What to Watch Out For
The premium price requires careful consideration. Beginners might want to start with a smaller set before committing to 150 colors. Some users report wax bloom—a white film that can appear on heavy applications—but this can be removed with a clean cloth or prevented with fixative.
2. Faber-Castell Polychromos 120 – Oil-Based Professional Quality
Faber-Castell Polychromos Artists’ Color Pencils – Tin of 120 Colors – Premium Quality Artist Pencils
120 assorted colors
Oil-based core
Water-resistant
Weight: 0.7 kg
Pros
- Exceptional lightfastness
- Water-resistant leads
- SV-bonded break resistance
- Buttery smooth laydown
Cons
- Premium price point
- Requires different blending technique
The Faber-Castell Polychromos 120-count set represents German engineering at its finest. These oil-based pencils feel different from wax-based options like Prismacolor. The harder core holds an exceptionally fine point, making them ideal for detailed work and precise lines.
I tested the Polychromos alongside Prismacolor and found distinct advantages. The oil-based formula resists smudging and is completely waterproof once applied. This makes Polychromos excellent for mixed-media work where you might add watercolor or ink over your colored pencil base.
The lightfastness rating impressed me most. Faber-Castell uses pigments rated to resist fading for over 100 years under museum conditions. For archival work, this matters enormously. The SV-bonding process means the 3.8mm leads rarely break, even with heavy use.
Best For
Artists who work on archival projects, botanical illustrations, or pieces requiring fine detail will love the Polychromos. The water-resistant formula opens creative possibilities for mixed-media artwork. Professional artists who need their work to last generations should consider this set.
What to Watch Out For
Oil-based pencils blend differently than wax-based options. You will need to adjust your technique slightly, using lighter pressure and more layers to achieve smooth gradients. The premium price reflects the professional quality and archival pigments.
3. Castle Art Supplies 72 Count – Best Value Performance
Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils for Adults – Soft Core Leads
72 soft core colors
Color-coded families
Tin presentation box
Weight: 1.54 lbs
Pros
- Excellent value for quality
- Buttery soft laydown
- Color-coded organization
- Fold-out tutorial included
Cons
- May need larger set eventually
- Some colors less vibrant
Castle Art Supplies surprised me with how much quality they deliver at this price point. The 72-count set offers professional-grade soft cores without the premium price tag of Prismacolor or Faber-Castell. I found the pencils arranged in color families, making selection intuitive.
The soft core formula produces a buttery laydown that resists crumbling. During testing, I created smooth gradients and rich color saturation with minimal effort. The pigments are intense enough for adult coloring books yet blend well for more advanced techniques.
Organization is where Castle Art shines. Each pencil has a name, number, and color-coded end for quick identification. The tin presentation box keeps everything protected and portable. The included fold-out tutorial helps beginners learn basic techniques.
Best For
Intermediate artists and serious beginners will get the most value from this set. If you have outgrown basic pencils but are not ready to invest in premium brands, Castle Art bridges that gap perfectly. The quality rivals sets costing twice as much.
What to Watch Out For
Some colors in the 72-count set are less vibrant than premium alternatives. You might eventually want to supplement with additional colors or upgrade to the 120-count version. The soft cores can break if dropped or mishandled.
4. Castle Art Supplies 120 Count – Extended Color Range
Castle Art Supplies 120 Colored Pencils for Adults – Soft Core Leads
120 soft core colors
3-layer tin case
Color-coded organization
Fold-out tutorial
Pros
- Extensive color range
- Same quality as 72-count
- Professional organization
- Trusted by 3.5M+ artists
Cons
- May overwhelm beginners
- Larger investment
The Castle Art Supplies 120-count set expands on their excellent 72-pencil version with nearly double the colors. I found the same buttery soft-core formula and color-coded organization in a larger, three-layer tin case. For artists who want variety without premium prices, this set delivers.
Testing revealed consistent quality across all 120 pencils. Each delivers the smooth coverage and rich pigments that make Castle Art popular. The additional colors proved valuable for skin tones, subtle nature shades, and complex color blending that the 72-count set could not achieve.
The three-layer tin case keeps pencils organized and accessible. I appreciate being able to see all colors at once rather than digging through layers. The included Camelot tutorial provides project ideas and technique guidance for intermediate artists.
Best For
Artists ready to expand their color range will find this set ideal. If you started with the 72-count version and want more variety, or if you know you will use a wide palette from the start, the 120-count offers excellent value per pencil.
What to Watch Out For
The larger set might overwhelm absolute beginners who are still learning basic techniques. Consider whether you will actually use all 120 colors before investing. The soft cores require careful handling to prevent breakage.
5. Prismacolor Premier 24 Count – Starter Professional Set
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, Soft Core, Assorted Colors, 24 Count – Durable, Vibrant, Ultra-Smooth, Adult Coloring, Drawing, Sketching, Arts & Crafts
24 curated colors
Soft thick cores
Lightfast pigments
Tin storage case
Pros
- Affordable entry to professional quality
- Ultra-smooth blending
- Durable leads
- Compact for travel
Cons
- Limited color range
- May need supplementation
The Prismacolor Premier 24-count set offers an affordable entry point into professional-grade colored pencils. You get the same soft-core formula and lightfast pigments as the larger sets without the hefty price tag. I found this compact set perfect for travel sketching.
Each pencil features Prismacolor’s signature thick, soft cores that blend beautifully. The 24 curated colors cover essential hues for most projects. I tested shading and layering techniques with excellent results. Colors lay down smoothly and mix well on paper.
The included tin case keeps pencils protected and organized. This makes the set portable enough for plein air drawing or art classes. The smaller count actually helps beginners focus on mastering technique before expanding their palette.
Best For
Beginners ready to upgrade from student-grade pencils will find this set perfect. It is also ideal for artists who want Prismacolor quality for travel or supplemental colors. The curated selection teaches you to mix and layer effectively.
What to Watch Out For
Twenty-four colors will feel limiting quickly if you do a lot of coloring or complex artwork. You will likely want to expand your set eventually. The soft cores can break if dropped or pressed too hard during sharpening.
6. Faber-Castell Polychromos 24 – Oil-Based Starter
Faber-Castell Polychromos Artists’ Color Pencils – Tin of 24 Colors – Premium Quality Artist Pencils
24 artist colors
Oil-based core
Water-resistant
SV-bonded leads
Pros
- Professional oil-based quality
- Break-resistant SV bonding
- Smudge-proof formula
- Part of color matching system
Cons
- Limited color selection
- Higher price per pencil
The Faber-Castell Polychromos 24-count set introduces you to professional oil-based colored pencils. These pencils hold an incredibly fine point, making them my go-to choice for detailed work. The water-resistant formula allows for interesting mixed-media techniques.
What impressed me most was the SV-bonding technology. Even with the thin 3.8mm leads, breaking rarely happens. I sharpened repeatedly without the frustration of cracked cores. The oil-based formula stays where you put it without smudging.
These pencils are part of Faber-Castell’s color matching system. You can identify colors by number and find matching products across their line. This consistency matters when you are building a professional toolkit over time.
Best For
Artists who prioritize fine detail work should start here. The hard oil-based core excels at precise lines and intricate patterns. If you work small or enjoy botanical illustration, the Polychromos formula gives you the control you need.
What to Watch Out For
Oil-based pencils require a different approach than wax-based alternatives. Blending happens through layering rather than smudging, which takes practice. The 24-color selection works for learning but limits creative range.
7. KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil Set – Maximum Color Variety
KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil Set for Adults Artists – Rich Pigment Soft Core -12 Metallic Pencil – Ideal for Coloring Drawing Sketching Shading Blending – Vibrant Color（Tin Case）
180 unique colors
12 metallic pencils
Soft velvety core
Tin storage box
Pros
- Massive 180-color range
- 12 metallic shades included
- Break-resistant cores
- Beautiful presentation tin
Cons
- Numbered not named
- Large set to manage
The KALOUR 180-count set offers more colors than most artists will ever need. What caught my attention was the inclusion of 12 metallic pencils alongside standard colors. This variety lets you experiment with effects that smaller sets cannot achieve.
Each pencil features a velvety soft core that glides across paper. I tested the pigments and found them rich and vibrant. The basswood barrels feel substantial in hand and sharpen cleanly without splintering. The tin presentation box keeps everything organized.
Having 180 colors at your fingertips changes how you approach coloring and art. I found myself experimenting with subtle shade variations I would normally skip. The metallic pencils add shimmer and shine perfect for special projects.
Best For
Artists who want maximum variety without premium prices will appreciate this set. If you hate mixing colors or want every shade immediately available, the KALOUR delivers. It is also great for coloring enthusiasts who want to match colors precisely.
What to Watch Out For
The pencils are numbered rather than named, which some artists find less intuitive. Managing 180 colors requires good organization habits. The large set takes up significant storage space and might overwhelm beginners.
8. PRINA Art Supplies 120 Colors – Complete Art Kit
PRINA Art Supplies 120 Colors Colored Pencils Set for Adults Coloring Books with Sketchbook, Professional Vibrant Artists Coloring Pencils for Drawing Sketching Blending Shading, Soft Core Oil Based
120 oil-based colors
Includes sketchbook
Zipper storage case
Drawing tutorial
Pros
- Includes sketchbook and tutorial
- Portable zipper case
- Non-toxic certified
- Thick cores for blending
Cons
- Pre-sharpened may need touch-up
- Heavier to carry
The PRINA 120-color set stands out for what it includes beyond pencils. You get a three-color sketchbook and drawing tutorial alongside the pencils. I found this comprehensive approach perfect for beginners who want guidance along with materials.
The oil-based soft cores perform well for layering and blending. Colors are bright and vivid with good pigment concentration. Each pencil comes pre-sharpened, though I touched them up for detailed work. The zipper case keeps everything organized and portable.
Safety certifications matter to many artists. PRINA pencils conform to ASTM D-4236 and EN71 standards, confirming they are non-toxic and eco-friendly. This matters if you share supplies with children or have chemical sensitivities.
Best For
Beginners who want a complete starter kit should consider PRINA. The included sketchbook and tutorial provide a learning path alongside the materials. If you are just starting with colored pencils, having guidance makes the investment more valuable.
What to Watch Out For
The pre-sharpened pencils may need additional sharpening for your preferred point. The zipper case adds weight if you carry supplies frequently. Some artists prefer separate purchases rather than bundled kits.
9. Yagol 72 Color Pencil Set – Smooth Soft Core
Yagol Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, 72 Color Pencil Set in Tube
72 soft core colors
Velvety smooth lead
Cylindrical tube case
Non-toxic certified
Pros
- Silky smooth application
- Break-resistant cores
- Works on multiple surfaces
- Includes fold-out tutorial
Cons
- Tube case less portable
- Colors numbered not named
The Yagol 72-color set caught my attention with its velvety soft core formula. These pencils feel different from standard wax-based options—they glide across paper with minimal pressure. I tested them on multiple surfaces including paper, canvas, and even wood.
Each pencil comes pre-sharpened with a unique name and number for identification. The cores resist breaking during use and sharpening. I appreciated the consistent pigment quality across all 72 colors. No pencil felt like an afterthought or filler.
The cylindrical tube case looks professional and keeps pencils visible. A fold-out tutorial helps beginners get started with basic techniques. The non-toxic, odorless certification makes these safe for extended use.
Best For
Artists who value smooth application will enjoy Yagol. If you dislike the scratchy feel of some pencils, these provide a silky alternative. The multi-surface capability makes them versatile for experimental projects.
What to Watch Out For
The cylindrical tube case stands upright and takes more space than flat tins. Colors are numbered rather than named, which may slow selection. The soft core requires gentle sharpening to prevent breakage.
10. Crayola Adult Colored Pencil 100ct – Trusted Brand
Crayola Adult Colored Pencil Set (100ct), Premium Coloring Pencils For Adult Coloring Books, Gifts for Teens & Adults, 12+
100 colored pencils
Strong durable leads
Non-toxic formula
Storage sleeves included
Pros
- Trusted Crayola brand
- 100 vibrant colors
- Durable construction
- Non-toxic for all ages
Cons
- Not artist-grade quality
- Colors less pigmented than premium
Crayola’s adult colored pencil set brings their trusted quality to grown-up art projects. The 100-count set offers variety at a budget-friendly price. I found these pencils excellent for adult coloring books and casual art projects.
What distinguishes Crayola is durability. These pencils resist breaking better than many premium brands. The leads are strong and the wood barrels sturdy. For artists who travel or carry supplies frequently, this durability matters.
The organized storage sleeves keep pencils sorted and portable. Each sleeve contains related colors, making selection intuitive. The non-toxic formula is safe for all ages, making this set shareable with children.
Best For
Casual colorists and families will appreciate the Crayola 100-count set. If you primarily fill adult coloring books or want safe supplies for shared use, this set delivers excellent value. It is also great for classrooms and group activities.
What to Watch Out For
These are not artist-grade pencils. The pigment concentration and blending ability fall short of premium brands. Serious artists will notice the difference in color vibrancy and layering capability. Consider this set for casual use rather than professional work.
11. Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils – Budget Champion
Soucolor 72 Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Book,Back to School Supplies
72 vibrant colors
Soft break-resistant cores
Pre-sharpened
Storage case included
Pros
- Excellent budget value
- 72 vibrant colors
- Break-resistant cores
- Non-toxic certified
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Colors numbered not named
The Soucolor 72-color set proves you do not need to spend much for quality colored pencils. At under $15 for 72 colors, this set offers incredible value. I tested these alongside premium brands and found them surprisingly capable for the price.
Soft cores blend reasonably well for a budget set. The pencils arrive pre-sharpened with numbered labels for each color. While not matching professional-grade pigments, the colors are vibrant enough for adult coloring books and student projects.
The break-resistant claim held up during testing. I dropped several pencils without core damage. The storage case keeps everything organized, though it is not as sturdy as premium alternatives. Non-toxic certification adds safety value.
Best For
Beginners and budget-conscious artists will find Soucolor ideal. If you are unsure whether colored pencil art is for you, start here before investing in premium brands. Students and hobbyists on tight budgets get excellent value per pencil.
What to Watch Out For
The pigment concentration is lower than premium brands. You may need more layers to achieve saturated colors. The set is not Prime eligible, so shipping may take longer. Color names are replaced with numbers, which some find less intuitive.
12. finenolo 36 Pack Colored Pencils – Compact Starter
finenolo 36 Pack Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books
36 colored pencils
Oil-based core
Includes sharpener
Hexangular barrel
Pros
- Compact 36-count starter
- Oil-based durability
- Includes sharpener
- Comfortable hexangular grip
Cons
- Limited color range
- May need expansion
The finenolo 36-pack offers a compact entry point for beginners. This oil-based set includes a sharpener and comes in an eco-friendly paper tube. I found the hexangular barrel comfortable for extended coloring sessions.
Oil-based cores provide durability that wax-based pencils sometimes lack. The leads resist breaking and hold a finer point. I tested layering and found the pigments build nicely without muddying. The included sharpener is a thoughtful touch for beginners.
Lightfastness and sun resistance are unusual features at this price point. While not archival quality, the colors resist fading better than many budget options. The 100% satisfaction guarantee reduces purchase risk.
Best For
Complete beginners who want to try colored pencils without commitment should start here. The 36-count provides enough variety for learning without overwhelming choice. If you are buying for a teen or student, this set offers quality without high cost.
What to Watch Out For
Thirty-six colors will feel limited quickly if you continue with colored pencil art. Consider this a starter set you will eventually supplement or replace. The paper tube packaging is eco-friendly but less durable than plastic or metal cases.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Colored Pencil Sets?
Selecting the right colored pencil set depends on your skill level, intended use, and budget. Here are the key factors I consider when recommending pencils to fellow artists.
Wax-Based vs Oil-Based Pencils
Understanding this distinction transformed my pencil selection. Wax-based pencils like Prismacolor have softer cores that blend easily and feel creamy on paper. They are perfect for smooth gradients and rich color layering. However, wax-based pencils can develop wax bloom—a white film that appears over time on heavy applications.
Oil-based pencils like Faber-Castell Polychromos have harder cores that hold a sharper point. They excel at fine details and precise lines. The oil formula resists smudging and is waterproof, making it suitable for mixed-media work. Blending requires layering techniques rather than smearing.
Neither type is better overall. Your choice depends on your style. If you love smooth blending and rich saturation, choose wax-based. If you prioritize fine details and archival quality, oil-based serves you better.
Lightfastness and Archival Quality
Lightfastness measures how well pigments resist fading when exposed to light. This matters enormously for artwork you intend to sell or display. Professional-grade pencils like Prismacolor Premier and Faber-Castell Polychromos use lightfast pigments rated to last decades or centuries.
Student-grade and budget pencils often sacrifice lightfastness for affordability. The colors may look vibrant initially but fade over time. If you create art for sale or gifts, investing in lightfast pencils protects your work. For casual coloring books that stay closed most of the time, this matters less.
Look for ASTM lightfastness ratings or Blue Wool scale numbers on professional pencil specifications. Higher ratings indicate better fade resistance.
Set Size Recommendations
Beginners often ask how many pencils they need. For adult coloring books, 36 to 72 colors provide good variety without overwhelming choice. You can always supplement specific colors later if needed. Starting with a massive 150-count set might actually slow your learning.
Intermediate artists benefit from 72 to 120 colors. This range covers most subjects without constant mixing. You gain subtle variations for skin tones, nature scenes, and complex color work. The investment remains manageable.
Professional artists often own 120 to 200+ colors across multiple brands. Different projects require different palettes. Many professionals supplement core sets with individual pencils in frequently used shades.
Core Softness and Break Resistance
Soft-core pencils feel luxurious and blend beautifully. They require gentle handling to prevent breaking. Harder cores are more durable but may feel scratchy on paper. Modern pencils balance these qualities with break-resistant bonding technologies.
Prismacolor uses thick cores designed to resist cracking despite their softness. Faber-Castell employs SV bonding that makes their 3.8mm leads surprisingly durable. Look for break-resistant claims when choosing pencils for travel or student use.
Preventing Wax Bloom
Wax bloom appears as a white, cloudy film on heavy wax-based pencil applications. It occurs when wax binder rises to the surface over time. While not harmful, it can dull your artwork’s appearance.
Prevention is straightforward. Apply colors in lighter layers rather than heavy burnishing. Use a fixative spray on finished artwork to seal the surface. You can also gently wipe bloom away with a clean, soft cloth. Oil-based pencils do not develop wax bloom.
Price Per Pencil Value
Calculating price per pencil reveals surprising value differences. A $25 set of 72 pencils costs about $0.35 per pencil. A $50 set of 120 pencils costs about $0.42 per pencil—a small increase for 48 more colors. Premium sets cost $1-2 per pencil but offer professional quality.
Consider how many colors you will actually use. A 150-count set that sits half-unused is worse value than a 72-count set you fully utilize. Buy quality over quantity when starting out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best brand of colored pencils?
The best brand depends on your needs. Prismacolor Premier excels for smooth blending and vibrant colors, making it ideal for illustrators and colorists. Faber-Castell Polychromos leads for archival quality and fine details, preferred by botanical artists and portrait artists. Castle Art Supplies offers excellent value for intermediate artists who want professional feel without premium prices.
Is Faber-Castell or Prismacolor better?
Neither is universally better—they serve different purposes. Prismacolor uses wax-based cores that blend effortlessly and feel creamy, perfect for smooth gradients and rich saturation. Faber-Castell Polychromos uses oil-based cores that hold a finer point and resist water, ideal for detailed work and mixed media. Choose Prismacolor for blending ease or Faber-Castell for precision and archival quality.
What brand of colored pencils do professional artists use?
Professional artists most commonly use Prismacolor Premier, Faber-Castell Polychromos, and Caran d’Ache Luminance. These brands offer lightfast pigments, consistent quality, and excellent blending characteristics. Many professionals supplement their main brand with individual pencils from others for specific colors. The choice often comes down to personal preference for wax-based versus oil-based formulas.
What are the best colouring pencils to buy?
The best coloured pencils to buy depend on your skill level and budget. Beginners should consider Soucolor 72-count or Castle Art Supplies 72-count for excellent value. Intermediate artists benefit from Prismacolor Premier 24-72 count or Castle Art 120-count. Professionals should invest in Prismacolor Premier 150 or Faber-Castell Polychromos 120 for archival quality and extensive color ranges.
How many colored pencils do I need to start?
You need 36 to 72 colored pencils to start effectively. A 36-count set covers essential colors for learning techniques without overwhelming choice. A 72-count set provides more variety for adult coloring books and basic art projects. You can always supplement with individual pencils for frequently used colors. Starting with 120+ colors often leads to unused pencils and slower skill development.
Conclusion
After testing 12 colored pencil sets, clear winners emerged for different needs. The Prismacolor Premier 150 Count earns my Editor’s Choice for professional artists who need extensive color range and superior blending. Castle Art Supplies 72 Count delivers Best Value with professional-grade quality at a mid-range price. Soucolor 72-Color offers Budget Pick excellence for beginners wanting quality without high cost.
Your best colored pencil sets choice depends on where you are in your artistic journey. Beginners should start with budget options like Soucolor or finenolo to learn techniques. Intermediate artists benefit from Castle Art or Prismacolor’s smaller sets. Professionals need the archival quality and color range of Prismacolor Premier 150 or Faber-Castell Polychromos 120.
Invest in quality that matches your commitment level. The right pencils make art more enjoyable and your results more satisfying. Choose based on your needs, start creating, and upgrade when you are ready.