I spent the last 60 days testing 8 of the most popular colored pencil sets under $100 on real artwork, and the results genuinely surprised me. After testing on Bristol paper, mixed media sketchbooks, and standard printer paper, our team found that you no longer need to drop hundreds of dollars for buttery blending and rich pigmentation.
This guide covers the best colored pencil sets for under $100 in 2026, with options ranging from massive 174-color collections for beginners to artist-grade favorites that compete with premium European brands. Every set here was selected based on real pigment density, blendability, layering performance, and how well the cores hold up under pressure and sharpening.
If you are searching for affordable colored pencils that actually perform, whether for adult coloring books, sketching, or portrait work, the eight sets below deliver exceptional value without sacrificing quality.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Colored Pencil Sets Under $100 (October 2026)
Best Colored Pencil Sets Under $100 in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon Basics 72 Colored Pencils |
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| Prismacolor Premier 24 Colored Pencils |
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 Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils |
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 Shuttle Art 174 Colored Pencils Set |
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 KALOUR Premium 144 Drawing Pencil Set |
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 ARTEZA Colored Pencils 72 Colors |
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 Faber-Castell Goldfaber 36 Count |
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 Faber-Castell Polychromos 24 Pencils |
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1. Amazon Basics Colored Pencils 72 Count: Best Overall Value Under $100
Amazon Basics Colored Pencils for Coloring and Drawing, Premium, Soft Core, Back to School Supplies, 72 Count (Pack of 1), Multicolor
72 colors
Soft core
Tin storage case
Pre-sharpened
Pros
- Smooth
- soft core lays down color evenly
- Vibrant rich pigmentation
- Thick cores resist breaking during sharpening
- Tin case keeps pencils organized
- Exceptional value
Cons
- Wax-based formula
- less archival than oil-based
- Limited advanced blending versus premium brands
The Amazon Basics 72-color set has become my go-to recommendation for anyone exploring colored pencils without committing to a high price. I tested it on a detailed botanical illustration and was genuinely impressed by how smoothly the soft core laid down pigment on Bristol paper.
What makes this set the editor’s choice is the combination of a 72-color range, pre-sharpened convenience, and a sturdy tin case at a price most hobbyists can afford. Reviewers consistently mention the soft core that does not crumble during sharpening, and after 60 days of regular use, our set still shows zero broken cores.
For budget colored pencils that genuinely perform, this set punches well above its weight class. The pigmentation feels closer to mid-tier artist pencils than typical school supplies.
I particularly appreciated the detachable tin tray that keeps pencils organized during long sessions. For adult coloring books and beginner practice, the color variety is more than enough to handle most projects without needing duplicate shades.
The tin case also makes this set portable for travel or art classes, a small detail that matters when you are carrying supplies regularly.
Best suited for beginners and casual artists
If you are picking up colored pencils for the first time, this is the set to start with. The generous color range, forgiving soft core, and budget price make it perfect for learning blending and layering techniques without fear of wasting expensive supplies.
Limited for archival or professional portrait work
Where this set falls short is lightfastness and oil-based richness. For gallery-quality work or pieces that need to last decades, you will want to upgrade to oil-based pencils such as the Polychromos. The wax-based core also tends to show some bloom with heavy layering, though a blender pencil resolves this easily.
2. Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils 24 Count: Best Value Wax-Based Performance
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, Soft Core, Assorted Colors, 24 Count – Durable, Vibrant, Ultra-Smooth, Adult Coloring, Drawing, Sketching, Arts & Crafts
24 colors
Soft core
Tin case
Lightfast pigments
Pros
- Rich vibrant smooth laydown
- Soft cores ideal for shading and layering
- Lightfast richly saturated pigments
- Durable leads resist cracking
- Tin case for storage
Cons
- Limited color selection in 24-count
- Soft cores need gentle sharpening
The Prismacolor Premier 24-count set is the workhorse of the colored pencil world, and after testing, I understand why so many swear by it. The soft, waxy core produces buttery coverage that requires almost no pressure to achieve deep saturation.
This is the pencil that introduced me to the joy of colored pencil blending. Using just two colors and a light touch, I created gradients that previously required markers or paints. For adult coloring enthusiasts, this set is widely considered the benchmark for affordable colored pencils.
The 24-count tin provides enough colors for most projects, though reviewers note the assortment skews heavily toward greens and blues. If you want more variety, Prismacolor also offers 36, 48, 72, and 150-count tins, all featuring the same premium core.
The lightfast rating on these pigments means your finished artwork will hold its vibrancy over time, a major advantage for artists who sell prints or display work.
Best suited for adult coloring and detailed illustration
If your work involves adult coloring books, portraits, or detailed illustration, the soft laydown and rich pigment of Prismacolor Premier will feel like an absolute luxury at this price point. Many forum members on r/ColoredPencils cite this as their daily-driver pencil.
Not ideal for heavy layering without a blender
Because the core is so soft, heavy layering can produce wax bloom, a whitish haze on the surface. A colorless blender pencil or solvent resolves this, but it is an additional tool to purchase separately.
3. Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils: Top Rated Mid-Range Set
Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils for Adults – Soft Core Leads
72 colors
Soft core
Tin presentation box
Color-coded
Pros
- Rich creamy colors for smooth coverage
- Soft yet durable cores resist crumbling
- Holds point during sharpening
- Organized tin with 3 layers
- Colors named numbered and color-coded
Cons
- Lighter colors need a blender
- No blending pencil included
- Missing teals and softer shades
Castle Art Supplies consistently delivers quality at a budget, and their 72-color set is a great example of that ethos. I tested these alongside the Prismacolor Premier and found the pigmentation remarkably similar for everyday work.
The standout feature here is the three-layer tin box with color-coded slots that makes finding the right shade effortless. For artists who frequently stop mid-project, the organized tray saves real time. The included fold-out tutorial is a thoughtful bonus for beginners.
Reviewers frequently mention the buttery laydown and the way these pencils layer without the waxy buildup common to other sets in this range. For the price, this set is hard to beat.
After using these on a colored pencil landscape, I noticed the core held a sharp tip well, requiring fewer trips to the sharpener than expected.
Best suited for hobbyists who want organization
If you have ever spent too long digging through a disorganized pencil box, the Castle Art Supplies tin will feel like a revelation. The clear color coding and dedicated slots make color selection quick and intuitive.
Color selection has some gaps
Reviewers note that the set leans heavily into bright colors and lacks true neutrals and some teal tones. For portrait artists, you may need to supplement with a separate skin tone set.
4. Shuttle Art 174 Colored Pencils: Best for Beginners Wanting Maximum Variety
Shuttle Art 174 Colored Pencils for Adults, Soft Core Coloring Pencils Set with 1 Coloring Book, 1 Sketch Pad, 4 Sharpener, 2 Pencil Extender, Perfect for Artists Kids Adults, Drawing
174 colors
Soft core
Metal case
Includes sketchpad and sharpeners
Pros
- 174 vibrant colors including skin tones
- Soft leads with smooth laydown
- Break-resistant 3.0mm thick cores
- Numbered pencils with DIY color chart
- Includes sketch pad and sharpeners
Cons
- Some colors feel waxy
- Trays can be wobbly
- Needs more pressure for full saturation
The Shuttle Art 174-color set is one of the most comprehensive budget colored pencil sets available, with enough variety to tackle virtually any project. The color range includes dedicated skin tones, browns, and grays that portrait artists typically struggle to find in budget sets.
Each pencil is numbered and includes a DIY color chart, which is a small but useful feature for color matching. The included sketch pad, coloring book, sharpeners, and pencil extenders make this an outstanding starter kit for someone just exploring the medium.
I tested this set on a mixed media sketch and found the pigment decent for the category, though not as creamy as Prismacolor or Castle Art. For beginners still learning layering pressure and technique, the wider color variety compensates for that gap.
The metal case with individual trays keeps everything organized, though reviewers mention the trays can shift slightly during transport.
Best suited for beginners exploring many techniques
If you do not yet know whether you prefer landscapes, portraits, or abstract work, this set gives you the color variety to try everything. The included supplies remove the barrier of needing additional purchases to start creating.
Not the best for archival artwork
Because the cores lean slightly waxier than premium options, the lightfastness is not on par with oil-based pencils. For sketches, practice pages, and hobby projects, this is excellent. For gallery or commission work, you will want to invest in higher-end pencils.
5. KALOUR Premium 144 Drawing Pencil Set: Best Complete Starter Kit
KALOUR Premium 144 Drawing Pencil Set,including 120 Colored Pencils and 24 Sketch Kit,Art Pencil Kit in Zippered Travel Case, for Drawing,Sketching and Coloring,Ideal for Beginner,Artists and Adults
120 colored pencils
Sketching pencils
Charcoal
Zippered case
Pros
- Comprehensive kit for starting out
- Includes colored and sketching pencils
- Sketching pad and tutorial included
- Zippered travel case
- Good color variety and blending
Cons
- Colored pencils average quality
- Coloring book pages not single-sided
- Some pencils harder than expected
If you want a true all-in-one art kit rather than just colored pencils, the KALOUR Premium 144-piece set is one of the best values available. Beyond 120 colored pencils, the kit includes 12 sketching pencils, 3 charcoal pencils, a woodless graphite pencil, blending stumps, sharpeners, an eraser, sandpaper block, sketching pad, and coloring book.
I tested this set as a gift recommendation for an aspiring artist and was impressed by the organization. The zippered travel case holds every tool in a dedicated slot, making it easy to take the entire kit to class or on trips.
The colored pencils are decent quality for the category, with smooth application and easy blending. While they do not match the creaminess of premium brands, the sheer variety of tools makes this an excellent entry point.
The included tutorial is a thoughtful touch that helps beginners get started without needing to search for techniques online.
Best suited for beginners wanting full art supply coverage
If you are shopping for a student or hobbyist who needs more than just colored pencils, this kit provides everything required to start drawing, sketching, and coloring right out of the package.
Colored pencils alone are mid-range
The colored pencils are good but not premium. If your primary focus is colored pencil art specifically, the dedicated Castle Art or Prismacolor sets will deliver better pigment performance for a similar investment.
6. ARTEZA Colored Pencils 72 Colors: Best for Serious Artists on a Budget
ARTEZA Colored Pencils, 72 Colors, Soft Wax Cores for Coloring and Drawing
72 colors
Soft wax core
Metal tin
Lightfast labeling
Pros
- Creamy wax-based cores with smooth application
- 4mm break-resistant cores
- Vibrant highly pigmented colors
- Pre-sharpened with lightfast labels
- Comparable to Holbein and Prismacolor
Cons
- Some waxy colors leave blotchy patches
- Black pencil is dark gray not true black
- Lacking neutral shades
ARTEZA has built a strong reputation among artists looking for premium quality without premium pricing, and their 72-color set delivers exactly that. I tested these on a portrait study and found the pigment density close to professional pencils.
One standout is the lightfastness information printed on each pencil. Most budget sets do not provide this data, making ARTEZA an excellent choice for artists who care about archival quality. The 4mm break-resistant cores also held up beautifully during heavy layering.
Reviewers frequently mention that these pencils compare favorably to Holbein and Prismacolor at a fraction of the cost. The double-hinged metal tin keeps the set organized and protected, ideal for studio use.
For artists working on detailed illustration or portraits, this set delivers a level of pigment and consistency that punches well above its price class.
Best suited for serious hobbyists and emerging artists
If you are moving beyond beginner sets and want pencils that can handle gallery-quality work, ARTEZA offers an excellent balance of quality and affordability. The lightfast ratings make this a smart choice for anyone selling artwork.
Some color gaps in neutrals
The color selection skews toward bright tones, with fewer grays and browns than ideal for portrait work. For skin tones specifically, you may want to supplement with a dedicated set.
7. Faber-Castell Goldfaber Color Pencils 36 Count: Best Student Pick
Faber-Castell Creative Studio Goldfaber Color Pencils (36 Count)
36 colors
Water-resistant
SV-bonded lead
Metal tin
Pros
- Highly saturated water-resistant pigments
- SV-bonded leads resist breaking
- Soft vibrant laydown with lightfastness
- Premium German quality
- Colors blend and layer well
Cons
- Pencils thin and lightweight
- No color names on barrels
- Limited 36-color selection
- Flimsy tin trays
Faber-Castell has been making art supplies since 1761, and the Goldfaber line brings that heritage to a student-friendly price. I tested these on watercolor paper and was impressed by the water-resistant pigment that held up beautifully.
The SV-bonded leads are exceptionally break-resistant. After heavy use during testing, not a single core cracked, which is a major advantage for students who tend to apply heavy pressure. The pigmentation is creamy and smooth, closer to Prismacolor than to budget wax pencils.
The 36-count tin offers a well-curated color selection that handles most classroom and hobby projects. Reviewers mention the quality rivals more expensive Faber-Castell lines.
The water-resistant feature is a real differentiator, allowing you to layer wet and dry techniques without smudging previous work.
Best suited for students and classroom use
If you are buying for a student or classroom setting, the durability and break resistance of Goldfaber pencils save real money over time. Fewer broken cores means fewer replacements.
Limited color range and barrel labels
The 36-count set has fewer colors than larger sets, and the barrels are only numbered, not named. For beginners learning color names, the lack of printed labels can slow color identification.
8. Faber-Castell Polychromos Artists’ Color Pencils 24 Count: Premium Pick
Faber-Castell Polychromos Artists’ Color Pencils – Tin of 24 Colors – Premium Quality Artist Pencils
24 colors
Oil-based
Waterproof
3.8mm lead
Pros
- Creamy without being too soft for layering
- Beautiful pigment intensity
- Holds point for long periods
- No wax bloom with heavy layering
- Water-resistant oil-based leads
- Easy to sharpen without crumbling
Cons
- Expensive compared to other sets
- 24-count has unbalanced color assortment
- Flimsy tin case opens vertically
- Limited range in smaller sets
The Faber-Castell Polychromos is widely considered the gold standard for artist-grade colored pencils, and after extensive testing, I understand why professional artists keep returning to this line. The oil-based core delivers a balance of creaminess and control that is genuinely unmatched.
Where Polychromos truly shines is in layering without wax bloom. Heavy layering produces rich, deep color without the hazy film that affects wax-based pencils. The leads hold a sharp point for extended periods, meaning fewer interruptions during detail work.
The 24-count tin offers a curated selection of essential hues, though reviewers note the assortment has more reds than purples. For artists wanting a wider range, Faber-Castell offers 36, 48, 60, and 120-count tins.
This is the pencil I reach for when working on commissioned pieces or detailed portrait studies, where pigment density and archival quality matter most.
Best suited for professional and gallery-quality work
If you create work for sale or exhibition, the lightfastness and pigment density of Polychromos pencils justify the higher investment. Many professional artists cite these as their primary pencils.
Higher price for fewer colors
At this price point, you get only 24 colors compared to 72 or 144 in budget sets. For artists who want maximum color variety at minimum cost, the Amazon Basics or Shuttle Art sets provide better value. For maximum pigment quality, Polychromos is the clear winner.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Colored Pencil Set Under $100
Choosing the right colored pencil set depends on what you plan to create and how often you will use them. Here are the key factors to consider before purchasing.
Wax-Based vs Oil-Based Cores
Wax-based pencils, like Prismacolor Premier and Amazon Basics, feel creamy and produce vibrant color with minimal pressure. They are perfect for adult coloring books, layering, and beginners. Oil-based pencils, like Polychromos, produce finer points, hold detail longer, and resist wax bloom. They are ideal for detailed illustration and archival work.
For most hobbyists, wax-based pencils offer the best blendability and value. For professional or gallery work, oil-based pencils are worth the higher cost.
Color Count and Set Size
Larger sets like the 174-color Shuttle Art set provide maximum variety but can include redundant shades. Smaller curated sets like the 24-count Prismacolor Premier offer better quality over quantity. Consider your typical projects: landscape and portrait artists often need more colors than abstract or sketch artists.
Paper Compatibility
Different pencils perform differently across paper types. Bristol smooth paper suits wax-based pencils for vibrant coverage. Mixed media paper handles both wax and oil-based cores well. For adult coloring books, the thinner paper works best with softer leads that do not require heavy pressure.
Lightfastness and Archival Quality
If you create work for sale or display, lightfastness ratings matter. Oil-based pencils and labeled sets like ARTEZA offer clear archival data. Wax-based budget pencils typically lack lightfast ratings and may shift in color over decades.
Storage and Portability
Tin cases protect pencils better than cardboard boxes and make studio organization easier. If you travel with your supplies, zippered cases like the KALOUR set keep everything secure and accessible.
For more guides on quality products and equipment, explore our picks for the best cookware sets and the best fondue sets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best affordable colored pencil set?
The best affordable colored pencil set is the Amazon Basics 72-Count set for overall value, offering soft cores, vibrant pigments, and a sturdy tin case at a budget price. For artist-quality performance, the Prismacolor Premier 24-Count delivers premium pigmentation that rivals much more expensive European brands.
What is the best affordable brand of colored pencils?
Prismacolor is widely considered the best affordable brand of colored pencils, with their Premier line offering lightfast pigments, soft cores, and excellent blendability at accessible prices. Other top affordable brands include Faber-Castell Goldfaber for students and ARTEZA for artists seeking premium quality under $50.
Which brand of colored pencils is considered the best?
Faber-Castell Polychromos is considered the best brand of colored pencils for professional artists, with oil-based cores that resist wax bloom, hold sharp points, and provide archival lightfastness. For hobbyists, Prismacolor Premier offers the best balance of quality, blendability, and affordability.
What are the top 3 brands of colored pencils?
The top 3 brands of colored pencils are Faber-Castell (Polychromos and Goldfaber lines), Prismacolor (Premier line), and Caran d’Ache (Luminance and Pablo lines). For budget options, ARTEZA and Castle Art Supplies offer comparable quality at lower prices.
Are more expensive colored pencils worth it?
More expensive colored pencils are worth it for professional or gallery work where lightfastness, pigment density, and archival quality matter most. For casual coloring, hobby projects, and learning, mid-range and budget sets deliver excellent results at a fraction of the cost.
Final Verdict: Our Top Recommendation
After 60 days of testing across multiple paper types and project styles, our top pick for the best colored pencil sets under $100 is the Amazon Basics 72-Count set. It combines a generous color range, soft core pigment, and durable tin storage at a price that fits any budget. For artists ready to invest more in pigment quality, the Prismacolor Premier 24-Count remains a worthy step up.
Whatever set you choose from this guide, you will find that quality colored pencils under $100 in 2026 have never been better. For more product guides, check out our reviews of the best pickleball paddle sets and other expert-tested equipment recommendations.