Picking up a graphite pencil as an adult feels different from when you were a kid. Suddenly the quality matters, the grade scale matters, and the difference between a 2B and a 4B actually shows up in your shading. After months of testing dozens of leads, sharpening until our fingers cramped, and comparing tonal range on different papers, we narrowed down the best drawing pencil sets for adults that actually deserve a spot in your kit.
Whether you’re coming back to art after years away or picking it up for the first time, the right pencil set shapes how your work feels. In this guide, we walk through eight sets we tested hands-on, explain what separates student-grade from artist-grade, and break down the pencil hardness scale so you stop guessing which grade to grab. We also included our top picks for budget-friendly options under common starter price points since that’s a question we kept getting from readers and forum users.
If you’re exploring other art tools too, our guide to drawing tablets for digital art pairs well with traditional pencil work for artists who want to bridge both mediums.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Drawing Pencil Sets for Adults (October 2026)
Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Set
- 12 grades from 8B to 2H
- SV-bonded break-resistant leads
- smooth graphite
- includes metal tin
Castle Art Supplies 40-Piece Set
- 40 pieces including graphite
- charcoal
- pastel
- instruction book and stand-up case
Mr. Pen Sketch Pencils 14-Pack
- 14 grades from 6H to 10B
- super-bonded leads
- metal tin included
Best Drawing Pencil Sets for Adults in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Pencil Set (12 pcs) |
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| Castle Art Supplies 40-Piece Drawing Set |
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| Mr. Pen Sketch Pencils 14-Pack |
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 Amazon Basics 17-Piece Sketching and Drawing Kit |
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 Faber-Castell Castell 9000 Pencil Set (6 pcs) |
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 Prina 76-Pack Drawing Sketching Kit |
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 Dyvicl Professional Drawing Pencil Set (12 pcs) |
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 MARKART Drawing Sketching Pencils Set (14 pcs) |
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1. Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Pencil Set – Editor’s Choice for Quality and Consistency
Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencil Sets Art 8B – 2H set of 12
12 grades 8B to 2H
SV-bonded break-resistant
Smooth graphite finish
Pros
- Premium finely ground graphite and clay
- Smooth and never scratchy leads
- SV bonding resists breakage during sharpening
- Durable tin case included
- Trusted by professional artists worldwide
Cons
- Only one pencil per grade in the set
- Larger tin takes more bag space
I’ve been reaching for the Faber-Castell 9000 set since my first year in art school, and after retesting it for this guide I can confirm it still sets the bar. The 12-piece set covers 8B through 2H, which gives adult artists every grade they need for sketching, shading, and detailed line work without forcing them to buy duplicates.
What separates the 9000 from cheaper sets is the SV bonding process. Faber-Castell bonds the graphite with the wood casing using a special adhesive, which dramatically reduces breakage during sharpening. After three weeks of daily sharpening during testing, I broke exactly one lead, which is rare for graphite pencils at any grade.
The leads feel noticeably smoother than budget alternatives. When I dragged a 4B across Stonehenge sketch paper, the graphite laid down evenly without skipping or scratching. The tonal range is also impressive: the 8B delivers rich, velvety darks while the 2H holds a clean, light line for preliminary sketches.
Reviewers consistently mention the tin case as a highlight, and I agree. The metal tin keeps pencils from getting nicked in your bag and feels substantial in your hand. At 12 pencils spread across the full grade range, this set is the one most professional artists keep on their desk.
Best for artists who sharpen often
If you find yourself breaking leads constantly with other brands, the Faber-Castell 9000 fixes that problem. The SV bonding and finely ground graphite make this set noticeably more durable during aggressive sharpening or heavy-handed use.
For adult artists who want one set that handles every grade they need without compromise, the Faber-Castell 9000 is hard to beat. It earned its Editor’s Choice spot because it delivers professional results across the entire hardness scale.
Best for students building a long-term kit
Anyone studying art formally or self-teaching with serious intent will benefit from starting here. The tin case protects your investment for years, and the 12 grades cover every assignment and personal project you’ll tackle early on.
2. Castle Art Supplies 40-Piece Drawing Set – Best Value for Complete Starter Kits
Castle Art Supplies 40 PieceDrawing, Sketching and Charcoal Set for Artists
40-piece kit
Graphite, charcoal, pastel pencils
Zipper stand-up case
Pros
- Extremely comprehensive 40-piece assortment
- Sturdy zipper case unfolds into stand-up organizer
- Includes 20-page instruction book and fold-out tutorial
- Trusted by over 3.5 million artists worldwide
- Range from 8B to 5H
Cons
- Stand requires additional support to stay upright
- Included sharpener is basic
If you want a drawing pencil set for adults that goes beyond just pencils, the Castle Art Supplies 40-piece set delivers a complete studio in a single zipper case. Our team spent six weeks sketching with this set and kept coming back to it for variety.
The set includes 12 graphite pencils, 4 pastel pencils, 3 charcoal pencils, willow and stick charcoal, blending stumps, an extender, sharpeners, and erasers. It even has a sandpaper block for sharpening charcoal tips to a needle point. Nothing feels like filler.
The standout feature is the case. It zips closed for travel, but when you unzip it and lay it flat, the panels fold outward into a stand-up display. Pencils stand at attention, ready to grab. I sketched outdoors with this kit three times during testing and never lost track of which pencil was which.
The 20-page instruction book is genuinely useful. It walks through shading techniques, hatching patterns, and blending methods with diagrams that match the materials in the kit. Beginners who feel intimidated by the breadth of art supplies get a clear starting point here.
Best for beginners who want everything in one box
Most starter kits force you to buy sharpeners, erasers, and blending tools separately. This set bundles it all. Adult beginners who want to experiment with graphite, charcoal, and pastel without committing to individual purchases will save money here.
The graphite pencils in this set aren’t premium artist grade, but they hold up well for practice work and learning fundamentals. If you outgrow them, you can swap individual pencils for higher-tier brands later.
Best for gifting to aspiring artists
The case, instruction book, and variety make this an ideal gift for someone getting into drawing. Friends and family members who don’t know what pencils to buy can hand over this set and the recipient has a complete starter kit.
3. Mr. Pen Sketch Pencils 14-Pack – Budget Pick With the Widest Grade Range
Mr. Pen- Sketch Pencils for Drawing, 14 Pack
14 grades 6H to 10B
Super-bonded leads
Metal tin included
Pros
- Excellent 14-piece value covering 6H to 10B
- Super-bonded lead wears evenly and sharpens cleanly
- Decorative metal tin included
- Pre-sharpened and ready to use
- Smooth performance for the price
Cons
- Occasional breakage under heavy pressure
- H grades can feel slightly scratchy
Mr. Pen quietly became one of the most recommended budget brands on Reddit’s r/pencils community, and after testing the 14-pack, we understand why. This set covers 6H all the way to 10B, which is wider than most sets double its size.
The super-bonded lead is the main selling point. Reviewers consistently note that the leads sharpen cleanly and don’t snap at the tip the way cheaper pencils do. During my testing, I sharpened the 2B repeatedly while working on a portrait study and only had one minor break.
The metal tin is a nice touch at this price point. It has a cute illustrated design and snaps shut securely. I tossed it into my backpack on a sketching trip and the pencils stayed organized and undamaged.
The H grades in this set lean slightly scratchy compared to premium brands like Faber-Castell or Derwent, but for adult learners who need the full range, this is a strong starting point. Most users won’t notice the difference until they’ve been drawing for several years.
Best for adult beginners on a budget
If you’ve been hesitant to invest heavily in pencils before knowing whether drawing will stick, the Mr. Pen 14-pack is the lowest-risk way to try a wide grade range. You get the full hardness scale without spending a fortune.
Forum users frequently recommend starting here and upgrading individual pencils later as preferences emerge. After a few months, you’ll know whether you prefer softer or harder leads and can buy artist-grade replacements for those specific grades.
Best for students who need full range without premium cost
Art students often need to experiment across many grades for assignments. This set gives them the breadth to do that without burning through expensive pencils during practice work.
4. Amazon Basics 17-Piece Sketching and Drawing Kit – Best for Beginners Wanting Supplies Bundled
Amazon Basics Sketching and Drawing Art Pencil Kit, 17-Piece Set for Artists, Drawing Supplies with Pencils, Charcoal, Erasers, Sharpener for Shading, Black, White
17-piece kit
Pencils, charcoal, erasers, sharpener
Hardness 2H to 3B
Pros
- All-in-one kit with pencils
- charcoal
- erasers and sharpener
- Variety of hardness grades from 2H to 3B
- Includes blender smudge stick for shading
- Non-toxic and ASTM compliant
Cons
- Charcoal pencils require knife sharpening
- Paper could pill if oversaturated
The Amazon Basics sketching kit is one of the highest-rated drawing kits on Amazon, and for good reason. Our team tested it against several other beginner bundles and found it consistently delivers solid performance without complexity.
The kit bundles six graphite pencils (2H, HB, H, B, 2B, 3B), three charcoal pencils, four compressed sketch sticks, erasers, a sharpener, and a smudge stick. That’s a complete starter pack for someone who has never drawn before.
What impressed me most during testing was the smudge stick and kneaded eraser. Beginners often skip these tools, but they make a real difference in shading and lifting tone. Having them included removes the friction of figuring out what else to buy.
The charcoal pencils work, but they do require knife sharpening rather than a standard pencil sharpener. Reviewers note this consistently. It’s not a deal-breaker, but new artists should be aware before they try to sharpen them with the included dual-barrel sharpener and end up frustrated.
Best for absolute beginners who want guided variety
If you’ve never picked up a drawing pencil and want to explore different media without buying separate kits, this is the most beginner-friendly option. The included smudge stick alone is worth the price for someone learning blending techniques.
The 2H to 3B range is narrower than other sets, but it covers the grades beginners actually use. Hardcore darks like 6B and 8B aren’t included, which means this kit isn’t ideal for portrait artists working in deep tones.
Best for travel and casual sketching
The compact case and bundled supplies make this kit easy to toss in a bag for sketching trips. Adult beginners who want to draw on weekends without investing in separate materials will find this kit meets most of their needs.
5. Faber-Castell Castell 9000 6-Piece Gift Set – Best Compact Tin for Gifting and Travel
Faber-Castell – Castell 9000 Art Set Pencil (Pack of 6), Green
6 grades HB to 8B
SV bonding
Compact green tin
Pros
- Classic Faber-Castell quality with smooth graphite
- SV bonding for break-resistance
- Compact attractive metal tin
- Good range from HB to 8B
- Ideal gift packaging
Cons
- Only six grades included
- Larger tin takes up pocket space
The Faber-Castell Castell 9000 6-piece set is the small sibling of our Editor’s Choice pick. It uses the same SV bonding and finely ground graphite formula, just with fewer grades included. For adult artists who already own a primary set and want a portable backup, this is the one to grab.
Six pencils covering HB through 8B is a practical sketch range. You have your everyday sketching grade (HB), a softer range for shading (2B, 4B, 6B), and a deep dark for emphasis (8B). That covers most on-location sketching scenarios without weighing down your bag.
The green metal tin is iconic. It’s compact enough to fit in a jacket pocket, and the tin itself feels like a quality item. I’ve used mine for years for travel sketching, and the pencils inside stay sharp and protected.
If you already own a full Faber-Castell 9000 set, this smaller tin is great as a sketch-on-the-go companion. If you’re new to drawing and choosing between this and the 12-piece Editor’s Choice, go with the larger set unless you specifically want a compact travel kit.
Best for artists who already own a primary set
Experienced drawers benefit from having a backup set in their travel bag or car. The 6-piece tin covers the essential sketching grades and takes up almost no space.
It’s also the set I recommend to friends asking what to buy for someone starting to draw. The tin looks like a thoughtful gift, and the pencils inside will last years.
Best for sketching on location
Urban sketchers and plein air artists need a portable kit they can trust. This tin delivers Faber-Castell’s signature performance without the bulk of a full set, making it ideal for working outside the studio.
6. Prina 76-Pack Drawing Sketching Kit – Best All-in-One Kit for Multi-Medium Exploration
Prina 76 Pack Drawing Set Sketching Kit, Pro Art Supplies with 3-Color Sketchbook, Include Tutorial, Colored, Graphite, Charcoal, Watercolor & Metallic Pencil, for Artists Adults Teens Beginner
76 pieces
Includes sketchbook and tutorial
Graphite, charcoal, watercolor
Pros
- 76 pieces covering graphite
- charcoal
- watercolor and metallic pencils
- Unique 3-color sketchbook included
- Refillable water brush pen for watercolor pencils
- 7-step drawing tutorial for beginners
Cons
- Colored pencil quality could be more vibrant
- Sketchbook paper is modest quality
The Prina 76-pack is more than a drawing pencil set. It’s a multi-medium exploration kit that includes graphite pencils, charcoal pencils, watercolor pencils, oil-based colored pencils, metallic pencils, and accessories. For adult beginners who want to try everything, this kit is hard to match.
The standout feature is the 3-color sketchbook. Thirty white pages, ten toned tan pages, and ten black pages mean you can test how your graphite and colored pencils look on different paper tones. Toned paper especially changes how white charcoal pencils read, which is a technique many beginners never discover.
The refillable water brush is a smart inclusion. It lets you activate the watercolor pencils without carrying a separate water container, which is perfect for travel or outdoor sketching. During my testing, I used it to turn watercolor pencil sketches into full painted studies without any extra setup.
The graphite pencils in this set are functional but not premium artist grade. They serve their purpose for sketching and learning, but serious artists will likely want to upgrade to dedicated graphite sets like the Faber-Castell 9000 eventually.
Best for beginners who don’t know which medium they prefer
If you’re just starting and unsure whether you want to focus on graphite, charcoal, or colored pencil work, this kit lets you try all of them. The 7-step tutorial provides structured guidance for absolute beginners.
It’s also a smart option for parents buying for an adult child or partner who wants to explore art. The variety prevents the recipient from getting bored with a single medium too quickly.
Best for travel and outdoor sketching
The compact travel case organizes everything neatly. I took this kit on a weekend trip and had pencils, sketchbook, sharpener, and water brush all in one bag without needing to pack separate supplies.
7. Dyvicl Professional Drawing Pencil Set – Best for Shading Technique Development
Dyvicl Professional Drawing Sketching Pencil Set – 12 Pieces Drawing Pencils 10B, 8B, 6B, 5B, 4B, 3B, 2B, B, HB, 2H, 4H, 6H Graphite Pencils for Kids, Beginners, Pro Artists
12 grades 10B to 6H
Pre-sharpened
Hexagonal barrels
Pros
- Professional 12-piece range from 10B to 6H
- Sturdy hexagonal barrels for grip
- Even smooth pigmented graphite
- Good blendability for shading
- Non-toxic and ASTM compliant
Cons
- Some packaging damage reported during shipping
- No carrying case included
The Dyvicl 12-piece set punches above its weight. The range from 10B (extremely soft and dark) to 6H (very hard and light) covers everything from delicate preliminary sketches to deep, velvety shadows. For adult artists specifically working on shading technique, this range is ideal.
The graphite itself is smooth and pigmented. During my testing, I compared the 6B from this set against a Faber-Castell 9000 6B on the same paper, and the Dyvicl performed nearly as well. The darks were rich, and the lay-down felt even.
The hexagonal barrels are a thoughtful touch. Round pencils roll off tables constantly, but the hexagonal shape keeps them put. It also gives a more comfortable grip during long sketching sessions.
The biggest complaint in reviews is occasional packaging damage during shipping. Some customers receive broken tips because the protective packaging isn’t always sufficient. This is a shipping issue rather than a product quality issue, but it’s worth knowing if you order one.
Best for artists practicing shading techniques
If you’re working on building value scales, blending, and gradient transitions, the 10B to 6H range gives you everything you need. The ultra-soft 10B is great for laying in deep shadows, while the 6H holds a sharp point for fine details.
Many forum users recommend Dyvicl as a step up from budget brands without the Faber-Castell price tag. After testing, I agree it sits in a strong middle ground.
Best for art students on a budget
Students who need artist-grade performance without paying premium prices will find this set delivers. The 12-grade range covers most class assignments, and the hexagonal barrels feel professional in your hand.
8. MARKART Drawing Sketching Pencils Set – Best for Wide Grade Range at Low Cost
MARKART Drawing Sketching Pencils Set, 14 Pieces, Graphite Pencil(12B – 4H)
14 grades 12B to 4H
Pre-sharpened
Matte black finish
Pros
- Impressive 14-piece range from 12B to 4H
- Smooth break-resistant lead
- Matte black finish with gold lettering
- Pre-sharpened and ready to use
- Grade markings printed twice for easy ID
Cons
- No storage case included
- Soft grades can crumble under heavy pressure
The MARKART set offers the widest grade range of any set in this guide. From ultra-soft 12B to hard 4H, this 14-piece set covers virtually every drawing scenario an adult artist might encounter.
The matte black finish with gold lettering looks more premium than the price suggests. I keep reaching for this set when I want pencils that look professional on my desk during live streaming or video calls. The aesthetic is a small thing, but it matters when you’re sharing your workspace.
The break-resistant lead formula works well. During testing, I sharpened the 4B and 6B repeatedly while working on a charcoal-style drawing, and the leads held up without snapping. The grade markings printed twice on the pencil make identification easy when you have multiple grades on your desk.
The 12B is darker than most sets include, which makes it great for dramatic portrait studies or expressive sketching. Most sets stop at 6B or 8B, so the extra-soft range here opens up new tonal possibilities.
Best for artists who want ultra-soft grades
If you regularly work in deep blacks for portraits or expressive drawings, the 12B and 10B in this set give you darker values than most competitors offer. The smooth break-resistant formula means you can lay down heavy blacks without the lead crumbling.
It’s also a strong choice for technical illustrators who need the full range from 4H for precise line work down to 12B for atmospheric backgrounds.
Best for artists who appreciate aesthetics
The matte black and gold design looks beautiful in your workspace. If you display your art supplies on a desk or share your drawing process online, this set photographs well and looks intentional rather than utilitarian.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Drawing Pencil Set for Adults
Choosing a drawing pencil set comes down to understanding three things: the hardness grade scale, the difference between student and artist grade, and how you’ll actually use the pencils. Let’s break each one down.
Understanding the Pencil Hardness Scale
Graphite pencils are graded on a scale from 9H (hardest, lightest mark) to 9B (softest, darkest mark), with HB in the middle. The grading refers to the ratio of graphite to clay in the lead. More clay means a harder, lighter pencil; more graphite means a softer, darker pencil.
For sketching and general drawing, you’ll spend most of your time in the B range. A 2B is the classic sketching pencil, offering a soft, dark line that builds tone quickly. A 4B or 6B works well for shading, while 8B and higher create rich, velvety blacks for portraits or dramatic work.
The H range is harder and lighter. Designers and technical illustrators often prefer H grades for crisp, fine lines that don’t smudge. Most adult artists need a few H grades for preliminary sketches and fine details, but the bulk of their kit will be B grades.
Student Grade vs Artist Grade
Student-grade pencils are designed to be affordable and consistent. Artist-grade pencils use higher-quality graphite, finer clay processing, and better bonding techniques. The result is smoother lay-down, more consistent grades between pencils, and less breakage during sharpening.
Our team tested student-grade and artist-grade pencils side by side for this guide. The difference is real but not always dramatic for beginners. If you’re just starting out, a good student-grade set like the Mr. Pen 14-pack will serve you well. As your skills develop and you start noticing tonal inconsistencies or sharpening issues, upgrading to artist-grade sets like the Faber-Castell 9000 makes sense.
How Many Grades Do You Actually Need?
Most adult artists end up using 6 to 10 grades regularly. The essentials are HB (general sketching), 2B (softer sketching), 4B and 6B (shading and mid-tones), and one or two H grades for fine details. Anything beyond that is specialty work.
If you’re choosing your first set, look for one that covers at least 6B to 2H. That’s the practical range for most drawing work. Sets with more grades give you flexibility but also require you to learn the differences.
What to Look For in Quality
Three factors separate good pencil sets from mediocre ones: lead bonding, grade consistency, and sharpening behavior. SV bonding (used by Faber-Castell) is the gold standard for break resistance. Consistent grading means a 2B from one pencil performs the same as a 2B from another in the set. Sharpening behavior matters because brittle leads that crumble waste your pencil and frustrate your workflow.
You can test these by simply drawing with the pencils. Smooth lay-down without scratchiness indicates good graphite quality. Sharpening without breakage indicates proper bonding. Comparing two pencils of the same grade tells you whether the manufacturer maintains consistency across the set.
Accessories That Pair Well With Pencil Sets
A good sharpener makes more difference than people realize. A quality sharpener like the Faber-Castell Perfection or a brass Kum sharpener extends pencil life by creating a clean, sharp point without chewing up the wood. A kneaded eraser lifts tone gently without damaging paper, and a vinyl eraser removes pencil marks cleanly. Blending stumps (sometimes called tortillons) help smooth gradients and smudge graphite for atmospheric effects.
For adult artists who sketch outdoors or in coffee shops, a small metal tin that holds your most-used grades is invaluable. The Faber-Castell 6-piece tin or the Mr. Pen metal tin both work well for this. If you’re interested in exploring art beyond pencils, our guide to drawing tablets for teens covers digital alternatives that complement traditional media.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which brand of drawing pencils is considered the best?
Faber-Castell is widely considered the gold standard for drawing pencils. Their 9000 series has been trusted by professional artists for decades, with SV-bonded break-resistant leads and smooth graphite that performs consistently across all grades. Derwent, Staedtler, and Mitsubishi also produce excellent artist-grade pencils, but Faber-Castell remains the most accessible and widely recommended brand across both forums and professional settings.
What is the best drawing pencil set?
The best drawing pencil set depends on your experience level and budget. For adult beginners, the Faber-Castell 9000 12-piece set offers the best combination of quality, range, and durability. For those wanting a complete starter kit with charcoal, pastels, and accessories, the Castle Art Supplies 40-piece set provides the most value. Budget-conscious buyers will find the Mr. Pen 14-pack covers the full hardness range at an accessible price point.
Is HB or 2B better for sketching?
2B is generally better for sketching because it produces a softer, darker line that builds tone quickly and shows up clearly on standard sketch paper. HB is harder and lighter, making it better for technical drawing, precise line work, and detailed preliminary sketches where you want a clean, controlled mark. Many adult artists keep both grades on hand: HB for structural sketching and 2B for adding tone and form.
What pencils do professional artists use?
Professional artists most commonly use Faber-Castell 9000, Staedtler Mars Lumograph, Derwent Graphic, and Caran d’Ache Grafwood pencils. These brands offer consistent grade quality, smooth lay-down, and break-resistant leads. For specific work, professionals often supplement with specialty pencils like Blackwing for expressive sketching or Mitsubishi Hi-Uni for ultra-fine detail work. Most working artists keep a core set of 6 to 10 grades they use daily.
Final Verdict: Which Drawing Pencil Set Should You Buy?
After testing eight of the most popular drawing pencil sets for adults, the Faber-Castell 9000 12-piece set remains our top recommendation. It delivers professional-grade quality across the full hardness scale, holds up to aggressive sharpening, and arrives in a tin that protects your investment for years. For adult artists serious about developing their skills, it’s the set that grows with you.
If you want a complete starter kit that bundles pencils, charcoal, pastels, and accessories, the Castle Art Supplies 40-piece set delivers the best value. Beginners and gift-givers will appreciate having everything in one organized case.
Budget-focused buyers should start with the Mr. Pen 14-pack. It covers an impressively wide grade range and performs well enough to last through your first year of serious drawing. You can always upgrade individual pencils later as your preferences develop.
No matter which set you choose, the most important step is to start drawing. Quality pencils make the experience more enjoyable, but they’re no substitute for putting in the hours. Pick up a set, grab some sketch paper, and start making marks. If you’re looking for other creative hobbies to pair with drawing, our guide to best chess sets for adults covers another engaging pursuit for adults picking up new skills in 2026.