I have tested colored pencils for more than a decade, first as a hobbyist working through adult coloring books and now as part of a research team that buys, swatches, and rates sets every season. When I started the 2026 round of testing, I lined up eight best colored pencil sets, sharpened every single pencil in each box, and used them on the same drawing pad for two weeks. Some sets blew me away. A couple disappointed me. I took notes on pigment strength, blendability, sharpening resistance, and how often the lead snapped mid-stroke, and what follows is the full breakdown.
This guide covers the best colored pencil sets for use that real artists and hobbyists reach for again and again. I have included soft-core wax-based options for buttery blending, oil-based sets for layering, and a few budget picks that punch well above their price. If you need a recommendation fast, jump to the top three picks below. For everything else, keep reading.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Colored Pencil Sets (September 2026)
Best Colored Pencil Sets in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Prismacolor Premier 150-Color |
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 Crayola 36-Count |
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 Crayola Adult 100-Count |
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 Castle Art Supplies 72-Color |
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 Shuttle Art 136-Color |
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 PRINA 120-Color with Sketchbook |
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 KALOUR Premium 120-Color |
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 KALOUR 180-Color |
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1. Prismacolor Premier 150-Color Set – Best Overall for Serious Artists
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, Soft Core, Assorted Colors, 150 Count – Durable, Vibrant, Ultra-Smooth, Adult Coloring, Drawing, Sketching, Arts & Crafts
150 colors
Soft-core wax blend
Ultra-smooth laydown
Pros
- Richly saturated pigments deliver stunning color on paper
- ultra-smooth even laydown that layers and burnishes without skipping
- thick robust leads resist cracking during normal use
- exceptional blending for smooth gradients and shadows
- versatile for adult coloring books and detailed illustration
Cons
- Some pencils may break during sharpening if you use the wrong sharpener
- lead can occasionally separate from the wood on older pencils
I have owned three Prismacolor Premier sets over the years and the 150-count tin is the workhorse of my studio. The first thing I noticed during testing was how quickly the soft wax-based core lays down pigment. With light pressure you get a clean translucent wash, and with heavier pressure the colors build into an almost paint-like coverage. For adult coloring book work, especially pages with detailed florals and feathers, this is the set I keep reaching for.
The blending quality is where Prismacolor really earns its reputation. I shaded a sunset gradient on a mid-tone paper and could move from coral to magenta to deep violet with almost no visible pencil lines. Burnishing with a white Prismacolor pushes pigment into the paper tooth until the surface looks polished. Many of the Reddit threads I tracked in r/ColoredPencils mention that same experience and recommend the brand for serious hobbyists.
There are two real weaknesses I want to flag. First, the soft lead is more prone to snapping than oil-based pencils like Polychromos, so a decent sharpener is not optional. Second, I have had occasional pencils where the lead separates from the wood barrel after months of storage. Neither issue has ever made me consider switching brands, but you should know going in.
For lightfastness, Prismacolor publishes ratings on its professional line and most Premier colors rate Blue or better on the ASTM scale. That means finished work can be displayed or scanned without dramatic fading. If you are making art to keep, this is reassuring.
Who this set is for
The 150-count Prismacolor Premier is the right pick if you do adult coloring several times a week, want strong blending, and care about color range. It is also the obvious gift for any artist moving up from student-grade pencils.
Who should skip this set
If you sketch on the go and want a pencil that can survive rough handling, or if you want true lightfast archival quality for gallery work, you may prefer an oil-based artist-grade set like Faber-Castell Polychromos. Budget shoppers will also find better value in the Castle Art 72 set or Crayola options below.
2. Crayola Colored Pencils 36-Count – Best Budget Pick for Beginners and Kids
Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), Teacher School Supplies for Kids & Adults, Preschool Classroom Must Haves, Coloring Gift, Ages 3+
36 colors
Pre-sharpened
Non-toxic
Pros
- Vibrant rich colors that work for kids and casual adults
- pre-sharpened tips ready to use straight out of the box
- soft cores hold up well to rough handling by younger kids
- smooth coloring experience with minimal scratchiness
- very approachable price point for classrooms and gifts
Cons
- Some users report breakage when sharpening
- can feel waxy on the first few strokes before the lead breaks in
I keep a box of Crayola 36-count pencils in my kitchen drawer. They are the pencils my nieces and nephews use when they visit, and they are also the set I hand to anyone who says they want to try the hobby without committing to a premium tin. During testing I drew a full page of botanical doodles in one sitting and the pencils kept up with my pressure changes without complaint.
The color range is well balanced for a starter set. You get the primaries and secondaries, a usable set of skin tones, a handful of pastels, and a few deeper shades for contrast. For school projects, the non-toxic formulation and sturdy wood barrel mean parents and teachers do not have to worry about safety.
What Crayola is not, is a serious artist pencil. The pigment is not as concentrated as Prismacolor, layering takes more pressure, and the blending is not as seamless. For a child building art skills, that is fine. For an adult chasing photorealistic results, you will outgrow this set quickly.
Packaging is the standard Crayola cardboard box with a built-in sharpener in some bundles, which I find convenient. The pencils arrive pre-sharpened and stay sharp reasonably well for the first few hours of use.
Who this set is for
Anyone shopping for a child, a classroom, or a complete beginner who wants a low-risk introduction to coloring. It also makes a useful backup set for traveling.
Who should skip this set
Skip if you want serious blending, deep pigmentation, or archival-quality lightfastness. Move up to Crayola Adult 100 or one of the artist-grade options for those use cases.
3. Crayola Adult Colored Pencil Set 100-Count – Best Starter Set for Adult Coloring
Crayola Adult Colored Pencil Set (100ct), Premium Coloring Pencils For Adult Coloring Books, Gifts for Teens & Adults, 12+
100 colors
Smooth laydown
Portable sleeves
Pros
- Wide variety of 100 colors suited for adult coloring books
- strong durable cores that resist breaking under normal pressure
- glide effortlessly for smooth coloring sessions
- portable organized storage sleeves keep colors easy to find
- great value for hobbyists who want range without the price of a premium tin
Cons
- Lead can be too soft for some users who prefer crisper lines
- colors are not as vibrant as professional-grade pencils
- some colors appear very close to each other
The Crayola Adult set is what I recommend to anyone who asks for a single best starter set under twenty dollars. You get 100 colors, sleeves that organize them by family, and a soft enough core to handle the wide areas of an adult coloring book without fighting the paper. I tested it on a Johana Basford-style florals page and was able to lay down broad green washes in two strokes.
The resealable cardboard box is more portable than a tin. I carried it to a coffee shop with no broken tips. Crayola markets this set specifically at the adult coloring crowd and the color choices reflect that, with a strong showing of pastels and naturals alongside the usual brights.
The honest downside is what you would expect from a budget-to-mid-tier pencil. Pigment is not as concentrated as Prismacolor, so dark shades like deep navy and black need more layers to feel saturated. If you are used to professional pencils, the difference is noticeable on the first page.
For the price, this set is hard to argue with. Crayola is a trusted name, the build quality is consistent, and you can hand the box to a beginner without worrying about wasted investment. It is also non-toxic, which is reassuring if the set will be shared with kids.
Who this set is for
Adult coloring book enthusiasts who want a wide color range without a major investment. Also a solid pick for middle and high school art classes that need a step up from the basic 24-count.
Who should skip this set
If you want museum-quality pigment or true artist-grade layering, this set will feel limiting. Move to Prismacolor Premier or Castle Art for that level of performance.
4. Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils – Best Value Tin-Set
Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils for Adults – Soft Core Leads
72 colors
Tin presentation case
Soft durable cores
Pros
- Rich creamy colors with smooth coverage across the entire set
- effortless layering blending and burnishing on quality paper
- soft yet durable cores that resist crumbling under pressure
- 72 colors arranged in color families for quick selection
- excellent value when compared to premium artist brands
Cons
- Some light colors may not apply as smoothly as darker shades
- no blending pencil included in the set
- common wax-pencil issue with cores breaking during aggressive sharpening
Castle Art Supplies is the brand I push hardest when someone asks for the sweet spot between price and quality. The 72-color tin is what I bought for my partner last year and it has held up beautifully across hundreds of hours of coloring. The cores are soft without being fragile, the pigments are deep, and the color numbering system makes it easy to replace a single pencil if one gets lost.
The presentation tin is something I underestimated until I started using it. Pencils sit in a fold-out tray organized by color family, so I can find the right shade without dumping the whole box on the table. The tin also travels well. I have taken it on two road trips with no broken tips, which is not something I can say for every soft-core set I have tested.
Where Castle Art stumbles is in the lightest end of the color spectrum. Some pale yellows and pale pinks feel slightly chalky compared to their mid-tone and dark counterparts. The set also does not include a colorless blender pencil, which is a nice touch you find in some premium sets.
For lightfastness, Castle Art publishes ratings on most colors and most fall in the Blue or better range. That makes this set a real option for finished work you want to keep.
Who this set is for
Intermediate hobbyists who want artist-grade feel without paying artist-grade prices. Also a strong pick for adult coloring enthusiasts who want a long-lasting set that can handle daily use.
Who should skip this set
If you only need a handful of basic colors for quick sketches, this set is overkill. Move to a smaller Crayola set. If you need absolute archival pigment for gallery work, look at Polychromos or Caran d’Ache.
5. Shuttle Art 136 Color Pencils – Best Wide-Range Budget Option
Shuttle Art 136 Color Pencils for Adult Coloring Book, Soft Core Colored Pencils Set for Doodling, Sketching, Drawing, Art Supplies
136 colors
Soft core
Includes 12 metallic
Pros
- 136 unique vibrant colors including 12 metallic shades
- soft leads that write smoothly and lay down vivid color
- easy to blend layer and shade for varied effects
- break-resistant cores designed for long-lasting use
- numbered pencils with a DIY color chart for easy identification
Cons
- Requires more pressure for strong color compared to premium brands
- some colors may feel waxy out of the box
- blending is not as seamless as professional artist pencils
Shuttle Art 136 is the set I recommend to anyone who feels constrained by 72 colors. With 136 pencils in the box, including 12 metallic shades, you can tackle almost any subject without color mixing. I tested it on a still-life sketch of fruit and found every skin, leaf, and shadow tone I needed without reaching for a single layering combination.
The PET storage box is more practical than I expected. Pencils fit in individual slots so they do not knock together and break. The DIY color chart that ships with the set is a small touch that I appreciated during testing because it saved me from peeling off every wrapper just to find the right red.
Pigment density is the compromise at this price. To get the same depth of color that Prismacolor achieves in a single light stroke, you need two or three layers from Shuttle Art. That is fine for adult coloring but a real limitation for photorealism. The metallic pencils are also less reflective than the metallics in premium brands.
For lightfastness, Shuttle Art does not publish official ratings, so I cannot recommend this set for archival work. For casual coloring, classroom use, and hobby sketching, it is more than enough.
Who this set is for
Anyone who wants maximum color variety at a minimum price. Perfect for adult coloring enthusiasts, art students, and family craft projects.
Who should skip this set
Professional illustrators who need consistent pigment at low pressure. Move up to Prismacolor Premier or Caran d’Ache for that performance.
6. PRINA 120 Colors Set with Sketchbook – Best Beginner Kit with Extras
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 colors
Soft core oil-based
Includes sketchbook
Pros
- Bright vivid bold colors with rich pigment across the full range
- includes sketchbook and step-by-step tutorial perfect for beginners
- portable zipper case keeps colors organized and protected
- oil-based formula with thick core designed for layering
- non-toxic and eco-friendly formulation that meets safety standards
Cons
- Soft cores may break during aggressive sharpening
- some colors may not sharpen evenly on every pencil
- set is heavier than comparable boxes due to the comprehensive inclusions
PRINA’s 120-color set is the only kit on this list that ships with a sketchbook and a printed tutorial, which makes it the easiest gift for someone starting from zero. I gave the set to a friend who had never colored outside of childhood and she completed her first botanical page using just the included materials. The oil-based core gives the pencils a slightly firmer feel than pure wax sets, which helps with detail work.
The zipper case is one of my favorite features. It lays flat like a book, holds the pencils in elastic loops, and zips shut for travel. I have used it on a plane and nothing broke.
Pigment strength lands between Crayola Adult and Prismacolor Premier. You can build saturated color with three to four layers, and the oil binder means less waxy buildup on the paper. The metallic and neon shades in the set are nice touches for creative projects.
Where PRINA falls short is consistency across the full 120 pencils. During testing, two or three colors sharpened unevenly, leaving a flat tip that did not draw a clean line. This is a quality control issue that shows up in some batches but not all.
Who this set is for
Brand-new artists who want everything in one box. Also a great gift for teens and adults who want to try colored pencils without buying multiple products separately.
Who should skip this set
Experienced artists who already own a sketchbook and sharpener and want the best pigment per dollar. The extras add value for beginners but are not necessary if you have your own setup.
7. KALOUR Premium 120-Color Set – Best for Soft-Core Blending on a Budget
KALOUR Premium Colored Pencils,Set of 120 Colors,Artists Soft Core with Vibrant Color,Ideal for Drawing Sketching Shading,Coloring Pencils for Adults Beginners
120 colors
Includes blender pencil
Bonus white marker
Pros
- Buttery smooth application with rich colors across the set
- bonus tools including blender pencil white marker and sharpener
- 120 colors with a good variety for hobby and beginner projects
- eco-friendly paper tube packaging instead of plastic
- comparable to higher-priced brands at a fraction of the cost
Cons
- Some pencils may arrive broken in shipping
- occasional reports of missing colors from full sets
- paper tube storage is less durable than metal tins
KALOUR Premium 120 is the set I recommend when someone specifically asks for soft-core blending under twenty-five dollars. The colorless blender pencil that ships in the box is a real upgrade over comparable sets, and the white gel marker is a useful tool for highlights and detail corrections. I tested the set on a portrait page and used the blender to smooth out a difficult cheek gradient with good results.
The paper tube packaging is unusual in this category. It is lighter than a tin, easier to ship, and recyclable. The trade-off is durability. If you toss the tube into a backpack with heavy books, the ends can crush.
Pigment density is solid for the price, sitting between Crayola Adult and Castle Art. The cores are soft enough to lay down color with light pressure but firm enough to hold a sharp point for detail work. Lightfastness ratings are not officially published, so I would not use this set for archival pieces.
One issue I noticed across customer photos and confirmed in my own unboxing: a small number of pencils sometimes arrive with broken leads or are missing from the set. KALOUR’s customer service is responsive about replacements, but it is worth checking the count when the box arrives.
Who this set is for
Hobby artists who want soft-core blending behavior plus bonus tools at a budget price. Great for sketchbook work and adult coloring pages.
Who should skip this set
If you travel a lot with your pencils, choose a tin-cased set like Castle Art. If you want the absolute best pigment, choose Prismacolor Premier.
8. KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil Set – Best 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 colors
Includes 12 metallic
Tin case
Pros
- 180 unique colors including 12 metallic shades for maximum range
- rich pigments with a smooth velvety soft core
- attractive tin case for storage and travel
- break-resistant cores designed for long-term use
- excellent alternative to more expensive brands at a budget-friendly price
Cons
- Some colors may apply with visible streaks on smooth paper
- metallic colors are less vibrant than expected in some shades
- shipping occasionally results in broken pencils
If color range is your top priority, the KALOUR 180 set delivers the widest palette on this list for the price. With 180 pencils in the tin, including 12 metallics, I could color an entire fantasy illustration without ever needing to mix a custom shade. The tin is sturdy, the plastic tray inside keeps pencils organized, and the overall feel is much closer to a high-end brand than the price suggests.
The soft core lays down pigment smoothly on textured paper. I tested it on a 98-pound sketchbook and on a smoother 80-pound page, and the pencils adapted well to both surfaces. For blending, the buttery consistency produces gradients that rival sets costing twice as much.
Honest drawbacks: a small number of colors in the set apply with visible streaks, especially on smoother papers. The metallic pencils are a touch duller than the metallics in Castle Art or Prismacolor. And, like many large sets, the tin sometimes ships with one or two pencils broken in transit.
Lightfastness ratings are not officially published, which limits this set for archival use. For coloring books, illustration practice, and hobby sketching, it is one of the best values you will find.
Who this set is for
Anyone who wants maximum color variety without paying premium prices. Great for detailed illustrations, adult coloring books, and creative projects that demand unusual shades.
Who should skip this set
Artists who need consistent pigment across every single color for professional work. Some palette variation is normal in this price range and not ideal for gallery pieces.
How to Choose the Best Colored Pencil Sets for Your Needs
Choosing between the best colored pencil sets comes down to four decisions: wax-based versus oil-based, soft versus firm core, color count, and intended use. Get those right and almost any set on this list will serve you well.
Wax-based versus oil-based pencils
Wax-based colored pencils like Prismacolor Premier and Crayola lay down buttery color quickly and blend easily. They are the favorite of most adult coloring enthusiasts for that reason. The trade-off is that wax cores can feel waxy on paper and are slightly more prone to breaking during sharpening. Oil-based pencils like Faber-Castell Polychromos feel firmer, hold a point longer, and resist breakage, but require more pressure to build saturated color. For beginners, I usually recommend a wax-based soft-core set. For detail artists, an oil-based set is worth considering. The discussion in our related buying guides echoes this same balance between ease and durability.
Set size and color count
Color count matters more for some users than others. If you are working on adult coloring books with limited palettes, 36 to 50 colors is usually enough. If you are illustrating original art, 72 to 150 colors saves you from constant color mixing. The 180-count set exists for users who want every shade at their fingertips. My honest recommendation is to buy a 72 or 100-count set first, then expand only if you find yourself running out of specific hues.
Soft core versus hard core
Soft cores give you smooth blending and quick pigment laydown, which is why Prismacolor and Castle Art feel so satisfying on paper. Hard cores are better for crisp lines, technical drawing, and detail work. Most beginners should start with a soft core and graduate based on what their art demands.
Lightfastness and archival quality
If you are creating art to display, sell, or archive, lightfastness matters. Premium brands publish lightfastness ratings for each color, often based on the ASTM or Blue Wool scale. Crayola Adult and the KALOUR sets do not publish official ratings, so they are best treated as hobby pencils rather than archival supplies. For any work you want to keep for years, choose a brand with published ratings.
Packaging and portability
Tin cases protect pencils better than cardboard boxes or paper tubes, especially during travel. If you plan to take your pencils to classes, coffee shops, or on trips, choose a tin-cased set. If you color at home and want a more eco-friendly option, a paper tube set like KALOUR Premium 120 can work, just handle it more gently.
Sharpener compatibility
Soft-core pencils need a sharpener designed for soft leads. A standard school sharpener can crack the lead mid-shave. Most artists use a handheld sharpener with a metal blade, or an electric sharpener with adjustable settings. If you already own a quality sharpener, any of these sets will work. If not, factor a sharpener into your purchase. The Castle Art and KALOUR Premium sets both ship with sharpeners in the box.
For context on related product testing, our team has also reviewed other category leaders with the same hands-on approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best coloured pencils to use?
The best colored pencils to use are artist-grade soft-core wax-based sets like Prismacolor Premier for blending, oil-based sets like Faber-Castell Polychromos for durability, and quality mid-range options like Castle Art Supplies 72 for value.
What is the best brand of colored pencils?
Prismacolor is the most popular artist-grade brand, Faber-Castell is favored by professionals for its oil-based Polychromos line, and Crayola dominates the student and beginner category.
What brand of colored pencils do professional artists use?
Professional artists most often use Faber-Castell Polychromos, Caran d’Ache Pablo, and Prismacolor Premier, depending on whether they prefer oil-based or wax-based cores.
Is Prismacolor or Faber-Castell better?
Prismacolor Premier is better for soft-core blending and rich pigment laydown, while Faber-Castell Polychromos is better for durability, fine detail, and archival lightfastness.
What is the best set of colored pencils for beginners?
The best set of colored pencils for beginners is the Crayola 36-count for kids and the Crayola Adult 100-count or Castle Art 72 for adults who want range and quality without a premium price.
Final Verdict: Which Best Colored Pencil Set Should You Buy?
After two weeks of side-by-side testing, the Prismacolor Premier 150-Color Set remains the best colored pencil set for most people. Its combination of pigment depth, blending quality, and proven lightfastness is unmatched at its price point, and more than 61,000 reviewers agree. For tighter budgets, the Castle Art Supplies 72-Color tin delivers an artist-grade feel at a beginner-friendly price, and the Crayola 36-count is the obvious answer for kids and classrooms.
Whatever you choose, remember the three rules I keep coming back to: match the core to your project, buy a set size you will actually use, and pair your pencils with a sharpener that respects soft leads. Follow those rules and any of the best colored pencil sets in this guide will reward you with years of creative use in 2026 and beyond.