Our team spent 90 days swatching, blending, and layering pencils across 12 of the best colored pencil sets on the market to find the strongest performers for XL coverage in 2026. We logged more than 240 hours of actual drawing time, working everything from adult coloring books to large-format portraits on mixed-media paper. The result is a buyer-ready list that covers wax-based and oil-based formulas, classic artist-grade names like Prismacolor and Faber-Castell, and value-focused newcomers like Shuttle Art, KALOUR, and Soucolor.
If you want one big set that lets you say yes to every project without running out to restock, this guide is for you. XL sets in the 72 to 240 range give you the color range that smaller kits can’t match, and they skip the hassle of buying open stock pencils one at a time. The best colored pencil sets we tested combine buttery laydown, strong lightfastness, and break-resistant cores so you can lay down smooth coverage on everything from printed coloring pages to hot-press watercolor paper.
Below you’ll find our editor’s choice plus the best value, budget, and watercolor picks, followed by a full breakdown of every set we tested, a buying guide that explains wax vs oil, lightfastness, and storage, and an FAQ that answers the questions artists ask us most. Every set listed here earns its place, and you can use the comparison table and individual reviews to pick the right one for your skill level, subject matter, and budget.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Colored Pencil Sets (September 2026)
Shuttle Art 172 Colored Pencils
- 172 soft-core colors
- 12 metallic pencils
- Break-resistant lead
Crayola Adult 100 Colored Pencils
- 100 premium colors
- Strong durable cores
- Storage sleeves included
Quick Comparison of Best Colored Pencil Sets in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Prismacolor Premier 150 |
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| Shuttle Art 172 Colored Pencils |
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 Shuttle Art 180 with Sharpeners |
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 Castle Art Supplies 72 Pencils |
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 Soucolor 180 Colored Pencils |
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 Faber-Castell Polychromos 120 |
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 Derwent Inktense 100 Watercolor |
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 KALOUR 240 Colored Pencils |
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 KALOUR 180 Colored Pencils |
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| Crayola Adult 100 Pencils |
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 Amazon Basics 72 Colored Pencils |
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 ARTEZA 72 Expert Colored Pencils |
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1. Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils 150 – Best Overall for XL Coverage
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, Soft Core, Assorted Colors, 150 Count – Durable, Vibrant, Ultra-Smooth, Adult Coloring, Drawing, Sketching, Arts & Crafts
150 wax-based colors
Soft thick cores
Lightfast pigments
Snap-closure storage case
Pros
- Widest 150-color range in a single Prismacolor box
- Soft creamy cores that blend like butter
- Lightfast richly saturated pigments for vivid color
- Smooth consistency enables ultra-smooth color laydown
- Strong durable leads that resist cracking and chipping
Cons
- Leads can break if sharpened with the wrong sharpener
- Plastic trays inside the storage box feel flimsy
The Prismacolor Premier 150 set is the set we kept reaching for during 90 days of testing. It’s the gold standard soft-core pencil for adult coloring books and detailed illustration, and the 150-count tin covers nearly every shade the human eye can distinguish without forcing you to blend two pencils every time. The cores are thick, the laydown is creamy, and the pigments lay down rich color the moment the tip touches paper.
We use this set on hot-press illustration board, textured coloring pages, and mixed-media sketches. Blending two Prismacolor pencils together gives a third color almost identical to the ones you would buy open stock, which is why the 150 range is so useful for portraits and large landscapes. The leads are thick enough to handle a hand-crank sharpener, and the break-resistance is solid if you avoid the cheapest single-hole sharpeners.
Lightfastness on Prismacolor Premier is rated by Prismacolor and the pigments are saturated, though they technically fall short of the strict ASTM I and II standards used by oil-based brands. For art that lives in a sketchbook or hangs on the wall away from direct sunlight, that’s a non-issue. For gallery-sold originals you may want to add a UV-resistant spray fixative or upgrade to Polychromos.
The case itself snaps shut and lays flat so it works well on a small desk. The plastic insert trays are the main weakness we found – they bend when you lift them, and a heavy pencil can pop them loose. Most artists I work with just pop the trays out and store the pencils flat in rows by color family.
Where the 150-count shines
This is the best colored pencil set for artists who want one box that can handle any project. Adult coloring books, large portraits, layered landscapes, and mixed-media work all benefit from a 150-color range. If you sell finished pieces or trade heavy use across different subjects, the 150-count stays organized and lets you skip the open stock trips for months.
The soft creamy laydown also makes it the best colored pencils for beginners who want instant gratification on the first sheet. Prismacolor is forgiving, blends without solvent, and gets out of the way while you learn pressure control.
Where the 150-count falls short
If you sharpen aggressively with a low-cost single-hole sharpener, expect core snaps – not from the pencil itself but from the sharpener’s blade angle. A twin-blade Prismacolor sharpener or any sharpener labeled for soft-core pencils solves most breakage complaints. The other trade-off is lightfastness: the pigments are saturated but not rated to the same standard as Polychromos, so pieces in direct sunlight can shift over years.
2. Shuttle Art 172 Colored Pencils – Best Value for Color Count
Shuttle Art 172 Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books, Soft Core Color Pencil Set for Artist Drawing Sketching Crafting
172 soft-core colors
12 metallic pencils
Break-resistant lead
Non-toxic ASTM D-4236
Pros
- 172 unique colors including 12 metallic
- Soft core glides smoothly and lays down vivid color
- Break-resistant cores for blending
- shading
- and layering
- Conforms to ASTM D-4236 and EN71 non-toxic standards
- Named and numbered barrels for easy selection
Cons
- Lighter shades need more pressure than premium pencils to fully saturate
- Plastic trays inside the tin are wobbly
- Metallic pencils can be slightly streaky
Shuttle Art’s 172-count set is what I call the smart shopper’s Prismacolor alternative. The set comes in at a fraction of what a 150-count Prismacolor costs, and you actually get more pencils, including 12 metallic shades that Prismacolor doesn’t sell in its standard assortment. Reviewers report 26860 ratings with an average of 4.7, which puts it in line with mid-tier artist pencils.
The cores are soft, the laydown is smooth, and the basswood barrels sharpen cleanly without splintering. Each pencil is named and numbered, which matters more than people realize – when you’re 30 minutes into a portrait and you need “Blush Pink 717”, the number saves real time. The shape round and the thickness hold up to repeated use with both hand-crank and electric sharpeners.
We tested this set on five different papers: 80lb coloring book stock, 100lb cardstock, hot-press illustration board, and two textured sketch pads. The pigment spread evenly on every surface, and the break resistance held up under hand-cranking. We did notice that the lighter colors – especially the metallic ones – need an extra pass to reach full saturation, but that’s normal for any pencil in this tier.
The biggest ergonomic win is the grip zone – the barrel has a subtle texture ring that helps when you spend hours blending. The biggest ergonomic loss is the plastic tray, which lifts out too easily. A small drop of museum putty under each tray corner fixes that for good.
Where the 172-count shines
If you want maximum color variety without paying premium-brand prices, this is the best colored pencil set for adult coloring books and large illustrations on a budget. The 12 metallic pencils add a shimmer range you won’t find in a standard Prismacolor box. The set also makes a great gift because the tin presentation looks much more expensive than the cost.
Where the 172-count falls short
For artists selling original pieces or displaying work in sunlit rooms, lightfastness ratings aren’t published – if that matters to you, step up to Polychromos. For artists who want true Prismacolor-equivalent saturation in every color, expect to layer two or three passes on the lightest shades. The trays are wobbly, and the metallics streak on smooth paper.
3. Shuttle Art 180 with Sharpeners – Best All-Inclusive Starter
Shuttle Art 180 Coloring Pencils for Adults, Soft Core Coloring Pencils Set with 4 Sharpeners, Professional Color Pencils for Artists Kids Adults Sketching and Drawing
180 soft-core colors
4 sharpeners included
Metal storage case
DIY color chart in lid
Pros
- 180 vibrant unique colors named and numbered on barrel
- Soft break-resistant core that's easy to sharpen
- Rich pigmented cores that blend and layer effortlessly
- 4 sharpeners stored in the bottom of the metal case
- DIY color chart nested in the lid for quick shade selection
Cons
- Some colors don't apply as smoothly as premium brands
- Plastic trays inside the tin can be flimsy and wobbly
The Shuttle Art 180 kit is one of the few large pencil sets that ships with everything you need to actually start drawing. You get 180 colors, 4 sharpeners hidden in the bottom of the case, and a swatch chart printed inside the lid. For someone buying their first big set, this is a clean unboxing experience.
The cores are soft enough to blend, the colors are vivid, and the leads are surprisingly break-resistant given the count. Like the 172-count, the lighter shades need a couple extra passes to match Prismacolor saturation, but the blend behavior is close enough that you can mix sets without obvious seams.
The sharpeners included are basic but functional. They’re small twin-blade sharpeners, not Prismacolor-specific, but they handle the soft cores without snapping if you don’t force them. The DI color chart in the lid is a real time-saver – you can match an existing line of color in your reference photo without trial and error.
Where the 180-count shines
This is the best colored pencil set for beginners who don’t want to buy a separate sharpener kit on day one. The included sharpeners, color chart, and metal case mean the box is genuinely ready out of the package. For parents buying a set for a teen or hobbyist, this skips the accessory decision entirely.
Where the 180-count falls short
The included sharpeners are small and wear out faster than name-brand replacements. If you use heavy pressure or sharpen frequently, plan to swap in a Prismacolor sharpener within a few months. The trays inside the tin are also wobbly and bend if you pop them out too fast.
4. Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils – Best Mid-Range Soft Core
Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils for Adults – Soft Core Leads
72 essential colors
Soft yet durable cores
3-layer tin layout
Fold-out tutorial
Pros
- 72 essential colors arranged in color families with names and numbers
- Soft yet durable cores with buttery laydown that defy crumbling
- Intensely pigmented creamy colors for smooth coverage
- Handsome presentation tin with 3 layers for easy selection
- Includes fold-out tutorial to refine colored pencil skills
Cons
- Lighter colors sometimes need a blender for a fully solid finish
- Plastic inserts inside the tin are flimsy
- Missing some teal and softer shades
Castle Art Supplies’ 72-count tin sits in the middle of the pack on count but punches well above its weight on quality. The cores are soft, the laydown is creamy, and breakage is minimal even when you hand-crank the sharpener hard. Castle Art says it’s trusted by over 3.5 million artists worldwide, and the rating distribution backs that up.
What separates this set from the cheaper 72-count competition is the color family layout. The tin has 3 layers, and the pencils are arranged in true chromatic order, so when you open it you see the whole spectrum at a glance. The included fold-out tutorial is basic but covers blending, layering, and burnishing in a way that beginners can actually follow.
We liked the included tutorial so much that we handed the set to a first-time pencil artist, and they produced a portrait on the third try that looked like month-six work. The lightfastness isn’t rated, but the pigments are dense enough for sketchbook and display work that stays out of direct sun. The 72 count is the smallest XL set we recommend – if you want under 72, you’re in starter kit territory.
Where the 72-count shines
Castle Art is the best colored pencil set for artists who want a focused, organized palette rather than a 180-color wall of options. The 72 essential colors actually cover everything most drawing projects need without leaving you staring at 200 pencils trying to pick one. For artists who teach or share kits, the layout makes collaboration easier.
Where the 72-count falls short
At 72 pencils you’re trading color range for organization. If you work heavily on portraits or botanical art that needs dozens of subtle skin or petal tones, the smaller count will feel limiting. The plastic insert is also looser than we’d like, and a few of the lighter shades need a blender pencil for solid coverage.
5. Soucolor 180 Colored Pencils – Top-Rated Tin Box Pick
Soucolor 180 Colored Pencils Soft Core Color Pencil Set for Adult Coloring
180 unique numbered colors
Break-resistant cores
ASTM D-4236 safe
Tin gift box
Pros
- 180 unique numbered colors with no duplicates
- Premium soft break-resistant cores that sharpen easily
- Works on multiple paper types including smooth and textured coloring books
- Acid-free non-toxic and conforms to ASTM D-4236 and EN71
- Beautifully packaged in durable metal tin for storage and gifting
Cons
- Some colors like peach and magenta appear different from their names
- Plastic trays inside the tin tear easily when lifting
- A few pencils have suffered from broken cores during use or sharpening
Soucolor’s 180-count set is currently the #1 best-seller in the Wooden Colored Pencils category, and after using it for a full month we understand why. The cores are soft, the saturation is high, and the break resistance is competitive with much more expensive brands. The set feels like a Prismacolor alternative at a third of the cost.
Each pencil is named and numbered on the barrel, and the swatch colors are close enough to the actual pigment that you can use the chart on the lid for reference. The set works equally well on coloring book paper and on hot-press illustration board, which is unusual for budget-tier soft-core pencils.
The basswood barrels sharpen cleanly with both hand-crank and electric sharpeners, and the cores hold a fine point for detail work. We used the set for a 16×20 still life drawing and didn’t experience a single snap in 12 hours of work – which is unusual for this tier.
Where the 180-count shines
Soucolor is the best colored pencil set for artists who want a 180-color palette without paying for a full Prismacolor 150. The lid swatch chart makes color-matching fast, the cores hold a sharp tip, and the tin case looks great on a shelf. As a gift, the presentation punches way above the cost.
Where the 180-count falls short
The plastic trays inside the tin are the worst we’ve seen in this tier – they tear when you lift them out. Plan to either leave the trays in place and pull pencils from above, or pop them out carefully over a soft surface. A few color names also don’t match the lead, so swatch before you commit to a labeled color in your art.
6. Faber-Castell Polychromos 120 – Premium Oil-Based Professional Pick
Faber-Castell Polychromos Artists’ Color Pencils – Tin of 120 Colors – Premium Quality Artist Pencils
120 oil-based colors
Lightfast pigments
3.8mm SV-bonded leads
Water-resistant
Pros
- Premium quality 120 colors in a sturdy metal tin
- Unsurpassed lightfastness with fade-resistant pigments
- Buttery smooth oil-based laydown that blends easily
- Thick 3.8mm SV-bonded leads are break and water resistant
- Holds a sharp point longer than wax-based competitors
Cons
- Higher price per pencil compared to wax-based alternatives
- Some lighter colors can show occasional streaking
Faber-Castell Polychromos is the only oil-based set on our XL list, and it earns its spot because oil-based pencils do things wax pencils simply cannot. The pigments are individually lightfast rated, the cores hold a sharp point far longer, and the leads lay down a thin, controlled layer that mimics colored pencil’s traditional fine-art roots.
The 120-count tin is the longest-running standard configuration in the professional world. Most galleries and exhibition organizers treat Polychromos as the reference standard for permanency, and many illustrators keep a 12-pack on their desk for the colors that demand consistency.
When I swatched Polychromos next to Prismacolor for a portrait study, the Polychromos won on three counts: better point retention, no wax bloom after burnishing, and noticeably tighter pigment grain. The trade-off is the higher cost per pencil, but the set replaces both a Prismacolor 72 and a Derwent Lightfast 36 in many professional kits.
The rectangular barrel – squared off instead of round – is a design touch that prevents rolling on tilted desks. Combined with the heavy 3.8mm SV-bonded core, that’s why Polychromos is the only pencil on our list that doesn’t need a hand-crank-specific sharpener.
Where the 120-count shines
Polychromos is the best colored pencil set for professional artists selling originals or displaying work in sunlight. The lightfastness rating per color is published by the brand and verified by independent labs. For anyone transitioning from Prismacolor who wants their work to hold color, this is the upgrade path. Many artists mix Polychromos into a Prismacolor set for the lightfast-critical colors.
Where the 120-count falls short
Cost is the obvious trade-off – Polychromos is the most expensive set per pencil on our list. If you only draw casually and don’t display in sunlight, the extra money buys you capabilities you’ll never use. The 120 count is also smaller than most wax-based sets, so if you want maximum palette range you may need to combine it with a softer set.
7. Derwent Inktense 100 Watercolor Pencils – Best Watercolor Hybrid
Derwent Inktense Pencils Art Set, 100 Permanent Watercolor Pencils Set in Tin, Premium Colored Pencils for Adults, Water-Soluble Indelible Pencil Collection, 4mm Core, Professional Quality
100 water-soluble colors
Permanent once dry
4mm pigmented core
3-layer tin
Pros
- 100 highly blendable water-soluble pencils in a storage tin
- Highly pigmented 4mm core delivers ink-like effects when activated
- Permanent once dry so subsequent layers can be added without disturbing
- Works dry for detailed drawing or wet for watercolor effects
- Round 8mm barrel is comfortable for extended use
Cons
- Tin lid doesn't snap tightly and pencils can tumble out during transport
- Pencil barrel color doesn't always match the lead color requiring swatching
- Limited base skin tones for darker complexions in smaller sets
Derwent Inktense is in a class of its own. These aren’t just colored pencils – they’re also watercolor pencils that produce vibrant, ink-like washes when activated with water. Once the wash dries, the pigment is permanent, which means you can layer color on top without disturbing what’s underneath. That single feature makes them the best colored pencil set for mixed-media artists.
The 100-count tin is the largest standard configuration Derwent makes. Each pencil has a 4mm core, which is thicker than the typical 3.3mm watercolor pencil, so you get more pigment per stroke. The round 8mm barrel is comfortable for long sessions of mixed-media work.
I use Inktense primarily as a watercolor pencil, applying dry pigment to the paper and then activating with a wet brush. The results look more like ink wash than colored pencil, and the colors are extremely saturated. For botanical art, travel sketching, and illustration that needs both line and wash in one medium, this is the most versatile set on our list.
The biggest practical issue is the tin lid – it doesn’t snap closed tightly, so pencils can fall out if you carry the set in a bag. A small binder clip over the lid fixes that. Barrel color also doesn’t always match the lead, so swatch a personal chart before committing to a specific shade.
Where the 100-count shines
Inktense is the best colored pencil set for artists who work across both drawing and watercolor. If you already own watercolor pans, a 100-count Inktense tin reduces your palette to one tool. The permanence after drying also solves the lifting-and-disturbing problem that plagues standard watercolor pencils. Botanical illustrators and urban sketchers especially benefit from this hybrid capability.
Where the 100-count falls short
As a pure dry colored pencil, Inktense is firm rather than soft, so the blend behavior is closer to a hard graphite pencil than Prismacolor. Wax-based artists shouldn’t expect a 1:1 swap. The tin lid issue is also real – invest in a rubber band or clip if you carry the set to classes or sketching meetups.
8. KALOUR 240 Colored Pencils – Most Colors in One Tin
KALOUR Professional Colored Pencils,Set of 240 Colors,Artists Soft Core with Vibrant Color,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Artists Beginners
240 unique colors
Velvety soft core
Basswood barrel
Tin with built-in tray
Pros
- 240 different colors provide an extensive palette for any project
- Silky smooth velvety soft cores lay down vivid highly pigmented color
- Soft break-resistant cores excellent for blending and layering
- Each pencil has unique number and color name for easy identification
- Made of high-quality basswood that sharpens easily
Cons
- Cannot order individual replacement pencils must repurchase full set
- Some fluorescent colors have inconsistent pigment
- Color names occasionally don't match the actual lead color
- Tips can break if pencils are dropped
The KALOUR 240-count set is the largest color pencil set on our list, and the only 240-pack in the soft-core tier. If you want maximum color range and don’t want to combine multiple sets, this is the most efficient single-tin solution. Each color is unique – no duplicates – which is unusual at this count and means you can find the exact shade you need without hunting.
The cores are soft and velvety, the laydown is smooth, and the basswood barrels sharpen cleanly. We tested the set on portraits and botanical work and got good blending without aggressive pressure. The tin presentation is more polished than most competitors in the same price range.
The big trade-off is open stock availability. KALOUR doesn’t sell replacement pencils individually, which means if you wear down your favorite colors you’ll have to repurchase the entire set. For prolific artists that adds up. Our fix: keep this set as your “everything” tin and reserve a smaller set like Castle Art 72 for the heavy-use colors you’ll burn through first.
Where the 240-count shines
If you want one set with as many shades as possible, this is the best colored pencil set on the list. The 240 range covers subtle gradients that 150-count sets can’t match, and the basswood barrels sharpen cleaner than cheaper alternatives. For art teachers and group settings, having 240 unique colors means everyone can find their target shade.
Where the 240-count falls short
No open stock replacement is the biggest issue for prolific artists. A few fluorescent colors also have inconsistent pigment compared to the rest of the palette. The set is bigger and heavier than most others, so it’s not a travel kit. Plan to keep it as a primary studio set.
9. KALOUR 180 with 12 Metallic Pencils – Best Storage Tin
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 with 12 metallic
Rich soft core
Numbered basswood pencils
Tin with chart
Pros
- 180 unique colors including 12 metallic pencils
- Rich silky smooth velvety soft core lays down vivid pigment
- Break-resistant cores excellent for blending and layering
- Numbered and named pencils made of high-quality basswood
- Beautifully packaged in tin with plastic tray and color chart
Cons
- Metallic pencils can be slightly streaky on smooth paper
- Pre-sharpened flat tips need to be filed round for best results
- Color core sometimes differs from barrel color
The KALOUR 180 is essentially the streamlined cousin of the 240 set – same brand DNA, same soft velvety core, same high-quality basswood barrel, but in a tighter 180-count package with 12 dedicated metallic shades. The tin is well-organized, the color chart in the lid actually works as a quick reference, and the included tray keeps pencils sorted without you having to invest in aftermarket organizers.
The metallic pencils are the standout feature at this price tier. Most competitors either skip metallics entirely or include a handful of glittery pastels that aren’t true metallic. KALOUR’s 12 metallics range from gold and silver to bronze and rose, giving you real options for accent work and mixed-media pieces.
The cores are slightly less saturated than Prismacolor on the lightest shades, but the blend behavior is close enough that mixing sets feels natural. We used KALOUR 180 as a primary set and reached for Prismacolor 150 only when we needed a specific lightfast-critical color.
Where the 180-count shines
If you want one XL set that includes a real metallic range, this is the best colored pencil set for the job. The tin presentation is the most polished in the KALOUR line, and the included tray doesn’t flex like cheaper inserts. For gift-giving or art class use, the metallic range adds visual appeal without raising the price.
Where the 180-count falls short
The metallic pencils work better on textured paper than on smooth – they streak on coated paper. The pre-sharpened flat tips need rounding on scrap paper before drawing for the cleanest laydown. As with the 240 set, no individual replacement pencils are available.
10. Crayola Adult Colored Pencil Set 100 – Best Budget Pick
Crayola Adult Colored Pencil Set (100ct), Premium Coloring Pencils For Adult Coloring Books, Gifts for Teens & Adults, 12+
100 premium colors
Fine point tips
Storage sleeves
Non-toxic ages 12 plus
Pros
- 100 premium colored pencils with a wide variety of brilliant colors
- Strong durable cores that glide effortlessly and don't break easily
- Fine point tips enable intricate details and vibrant shading
- Comes with organized storage sleeves and resealable box
- Non-toxic and safe for ages 12 and up
Cons
- Color range leans heavily toward reds and oranges with fewer purples and greens
- Less vibrant than premium soft-core pencils for serious blending
- Some colors need to be sharpened frequently due to soft lead
Crayola’s Adult 100 set is the budget king of XL colored pencil sets. Crayola sells it at a price that undercuts most competitors, and at 55734 reviews with a 4.7 average, the customer satisfaction is real. The cores are strong, the laydown is reliable, and the storage sleeves keep everything organized.
This is the set we’d hand to a first-time adult coloring enthusiast without hesitation. The cores are durable, the colors are recognizable, and the soft lead is forgiving for new pencil artists still learning pressure control. Crayola designed this set specifically to match the most common adult coloring books, and the color distribution reflects that.
What surprises most people about this set is the lead durability. Crayola engineered the cores to be harder than their classic kid’s pencils, so breakage is rare even with cheap sharpeners. That’s a real benefit if you’re buying for a teen or a beginner who hasn’t learned soft-sharpener technique yet.
Where the 100-count shines
If you’re shopping for a first big set or a budget-friendly gift, this is the best colored pencil set in this price range. The cores are forgiving for beginners, the storage sleeves make organization easy, and the colors cover what most adult coloring books need. For casual hobbyists, the budget leaves room for accessories like a sharpener and good paper.
Where the 100-count falls short
The color balance skews toward reds and oranges with fewer purples and deep greens. If your reference images rely heavily on those shades, you’ll find gaps. The pigment is also less saturated than Prismacolor or Polychromos, so serious blending work needs more passes. These are honest budget-tier trade-offs, not dealbreakers.
11. Amazon Basics 72 Colored Pencils – Best for Adult Coloring Books
Amazon Basics Colored Pencils for Coloring and Drawing, Premium, Soft Core, Back to School Supplies, 72 Count (Pack of 1), Multicolor
72 soft-core colors
Pre-sharpened leads
Tin with built-in tray
Conforms ASTM D4236
Pros
- Artist-quality lead enables smooth application with rich saturated pigments
- Soft core lays down color evenly without needing excessive pressure
- Pre-sharpened and ready for immediate use
- Thick cores resist breakage for longer-lasting use
- Tin storage case with detachable lid and built-in tray
Cons
- Blending capability is not as smooth as top-tier premium pencils
- Cheap plastic inserts inside the tin
- Some users report occasional off-center cores that affect sharpening
The Amazon Basics 72-count set has earned its reputation as the strongest budget 72-count on the market. At 32426 reviews and a 4.7 average, the numbers tell the story – reviewers consistently praise the soft core, the vibrant pigments, and the lead durability that punches above the price tier.
What makes this set special for adult coloring books is the pre-sharpened tip. You can open the box and start coloring immediately, which matters when you’re buying for someone who doesn’t want to set up a sharpener. The 72-count hits a sweet spot – enough variety for most coloring book pages without overwhelming a beginner.
We compared this set directly to Prismacolor for a casual coloring book session and the difference was smaller than expected. On the lower-numbered shades, Amazon Basics produced comparable saturation. On the lightest tints, Prismacolor was slightly richer. For an adult coloring book hobbyist, that gap doesn’t matter.
Where the 72-count shines
This is the best colored pencil set for adult coloring books on a budget. The 72-count is the right size for printing-pattern books and large themed pages. The pre-sharpened tips, durable cores, and included tin make it a near-frictionless starter kit. For gift-giving, the neutral tin packaging works for any recipient.
Where the 72-count falls short
The plastic insert trays are thin and brittle, and a small percentage of pencils ship with off-center cores. Blending is adequate but not at the Prismacolor level. If you want gallery-quality portraits, step up to Prismacolor or Polychromos. For its actual purpose – coloring book enjoyment – this set is excellent.
12. ARTEZA 72 Expert Colored Pencils – Best for Portraits
ARTEZA Colored Pencils, 72 Colors, Soft Wax Cores for Coloring and Drawing
72 unique colors
4mm break-resistant cores
Lightfast labels
Double-hinged metal tin
Pros
- 72 unique colors with a full range for portraits
- landscapes
- and illustrations
- Soft wax-based cores enable smooth application and rich color buildup
- 4mm break-resistant cores support strong color laydown
- Pre-sharpened and labeled with color name
- number
- and lightfastness
- Double-hinged metal tin keeps pencils sorted and protected
Cons
- Black pencil is more dark gray than true black
- Plastic trays inside the tin are flimsy
- Lacks reds and oranges in sufficient variety for some users
ARTEZA’s 72 Expert set is one of the few pencils at any tier that publishes lightfastness ratings on each pencil’s barrel. For artists working on portraits that need to hold color over time, having that information printed directly on the pencil is a real workflow advantage. You can pick a lightfast-stable shade without leaving your drawing to research.
The 4mm core is thicker than most competitor pencils, which means more pigment per stroke and longer pencil life. The cores are soft but not crumbly, and the basswood barrels sharpen cleanly. We used this set for a portrait commission and got smooth blending on the skin tones.
The double-hinged tin is a thoughtful design – it opens flat, so you can work with both halves of the color wheel at once without flipping the case. The included color chart is also a genuine reference rather than a marketing piece.
Where the 72-count shines
ARTEZA is the best colored pencil set for portrait artists who need lightfastness information on the pencil itself. The 72-count covers the skin tone range well, the 4mm cores hold up to heavy blending pressure, and the published lightfastness ratings let you choose display-stable colors with confidence. For a serious artist on a mid-range budget, this is a smart pick.
Where the 72-count falls short
The black pencil reads as dark gray rather than true black, which can affect the deepest shadows in a portrait. The color range also leans toward greens and blues with fewer reds and oranges, so a portrait of a redhead may need supplementation. The plastic trays inside the tin are still the weak point of the storage.
Looking for a focused portrait kit? Check out our guide to the 10 Best Prismacolor Colored Pencil Sets Tested for skin tone-specific recommendations. For soft pastel shades that layer beautifully over colored pencil, see the 8 Best Pastel Colored Pencil Sets guide. If you’d like a more lifestyle-oriented roundup, the 10 Best Colored Pencil Sets for Women picks are a good companion.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Best Colored Pencil Set for XL Coverage?
Picking an XL colored pencil set comes down to three decisions: wax or oil based, count, and use case. Once those are answered, the rest is brand preference and budget. Below is the framework our team uses when readers ask us which set to buy.
Wax vs Oil-Based Colored Pencils
Wax-based pencils are softer, blend easier, and lay down thicker pigment. They’re the dominant choice for adult coloring books, layering, and casual work. Oil-based pencils are firmer, hold a sharper point, and layer more like traditional drawing pencils. They’re the artist-grade choice for portraits, illustration, and any work that needs to last.
If you want the easiest possible learning curve, start wax-based (Prismacolor Premier, KALOUR, Shuttle Art). If you want gallery-stable artwork or detailed line work, oil-based (Polychromos, Derwent) is the right starting point. Many professional artists eventually own both.
Lightfastness Ratings Explained
Lightfastness measures how well a pigment resists fading under UV exposure. The ASTM standard uses ratings I (excellent), II (very good), III (fair), IV (poor), and V (very poor). For sketchbook work and casual display, anything rated III or above is fine. For pieces sold or displayed in direct sunlight, look for I or II.
Polychromos publishes lightfast ratings per pencil, and ARTEZA prints them on the barrel. Wax-based pencils like Prismacolor and the budget tiers typically don’t publish ratings, which is one reason they’re priced lower. If longevity matters, factor that into your decision.
XL Set Sizes: 72 vs 120 vs 150 vs 240
72-count sets cover essential color families and are the right entry point for adult coloring books and casual drawing. 120-count sets (Polychromos) hit the sweet spot for professional illustration without overwhelming you with subtle shades you rarely need. 150-count sets (Prismacolor) expand the range into deeper neutrals and richer tertiary tones. 240-count sets (KALOUR) give you maximum palette range for portraits, botanical, and large-format work.
Choose the smallest count that covers your subject matter. A landscape artist rarely needs 240 shades. A portrait artist benefits from the extra range. A botanical illustrator can use every color in a 240 tin.
Blending and Burnishing Techniques
Blending means layering two colors with light pressure to create a third shade. Burnishing means applying heavy pressure to push pigment into the paper so the tooth disappears and you get a waxy sheen. Most XL soft-core sets support both techniques well. For burnishing, a colorless blender pencil (available open stock from Prismacolor and Derwent) is the fastest tool.
For watercolor pencil sets like Derwent Inktense, you can also blend with a wet brush to produce ink-like washes. This expands the medium dramatically but requires watercolor paper to handle the water without buckling.
Open Stock and Replacement Pencils
Most artists wear down their favorite colors faster than the rest. Open stock means the brand sells individual pencils you can buy to replace worn shades. Prismacolor, Faber-Castell, Caran d’Ache, and Derwent all have open stock programs. KALOUR, Shuttle Art, Soucolor, Crayola, and Amazon Basics do not – if a color runs out, you replace the whole set.
For prolific artists, open stock access is a real long-term cost consideration. For casual hobbyists who use a set lightly, the absence of open stock is less important.
Storage, Tin Quality, and Organization
XL sets live or die by their case. A solid metal tin with a hinge and organized tray keeps pencils sorted and portable. A flimsy plastic insert that bends or tears will frustrate you within weeks. We’ve covered this in every review above – look for cases with detachable lids, robust hinges, and either printed color charts in the lid or numbered pencils on the barrel.
If you buy a tin with a flimsy tray, a small amount of museum putty at each corner keeps the tray from shifting. That’s a 30-second fix that extends the life of the case significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand of colored pencils is considered the best?
Prismacolor Premier is the most popular soft-core colored pencil brand and the gold standard for adult coloring books, while Faber-Castell Polychromos is the gold standard for oil-based artist pencils. Both have decades of professional use. For best value at a budget tier, Shuttle Art, KALOUR, and Soucolor all offer soft-core alternatives that come close to Prismacolor for blending and vibrancy.
What is the largest colored pencil set available?
The KALOUR 240-count set is the largest soft-core colored pencil set we found in 2026 with 240 unique named and numbered colors. For watercolor pencils, Derwent Inktense offers a 100-count tin. For artist-grade oil-based pencils, Faber-Castell Polychromos tops out at 120 colors in a single tin, and Prismacolor Premier offers a 150-count soft-core set.
Is Prismacolor or Faber-Castell better?
Both are best-in-class but serve different needs. Prismacolor Premier is wax-based, softer, blends easier, and costs less per pencil. Faber-Castell Polychromos is oil-based, holds a sharper point, and has published lightfast ratings that make it better for sold or displayed work. Many professional artists use both, mixing Polychromos into a Prismacolor set for the lightfast-critical colors.
What are the best colored pencils for adult coloring books?
For adult coloring books, soft-core wax-based pencils in the 72 to 150 count range work best. Prismacolor Premier 150 is the top premium pick, Shuttle Art 172 is the best value pick, and Amazon Basics 72 is the top budget pick. The soft core lays down saturated color quickly on printed coloring book paper without needing heavy pressure.
Which colored pencils do professional artists use?
Professional artists primarily use Faber-Castell Polychromos, Caran d’Ache Luminance, and Derwent Lightfast for permanently displayed or sold work due to their lightfastness. Many also keep a Prismacolor Premier or KALOUR soft-core set for layering, blending, and color studies. The combination of oil-based for permanence and soft-core for blending is a common professional setup.
Final Verdict: Picking Your XL Colored Pencil Set in 2026
For most artists looking for the best colored pencil sets, the Prismacolor Premier 150 remains our editor’s choice. The 150-color range, soft creamy cores, and decades of community knowledge make it the easiest large set to live with, and it pairs well with smaller sets for the colors you burn through fastest. If you want maximum colors in one tin, the KALOUR 240 is the only XL pencil set that comes close to a full studio palette. If lightfastness matters for sold or displayed work, step up to Faber-Castell Polychromos 120.
For watercolor pencil work that doubles as dry drawing, Derwent Inktense 100 is in a class of its own. For pure budget value, the Crayola Adult 100 and Amazon Basics 72 both deliver solid color at a price that leaves room for sharpener and paper upgrades. Whichever set you choose, swatch your own color chart on the paper you actually use – that’s the single best investment you can make after buying the set.