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Best Affordable Colored Pencils (2024 Update)

If you’re looking for the best affordable colored pencils, you have come to the right place. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, colored pencils are an essential tool for expressing your creativity in beautiful ways. However, with so many options available in the market, choosing the right colored pencils can be quite daunting.

Before making a purchase, it is important to consider a few factors such as color selection, quality, and price. When it comes to color selection, it’s best to choose a set that has a wide range of hues to allow for a greater level of creativity. Quality of the pencil leads is also paramount as it will affect the final finish of your artwork. Finally, it’s important to find a set that is affordable yet maintains a high quality.

Are you tired of purchasing colored pencils that constantly break? Are you looking for a set of colored pencils with great color selection? If so, keep reading for our top picks of the best affordable colored pencils in the market. Discover which brands offer the best value for your money and which deliver the highest quality results. Get ready to take your artwork to the next level with our recommended colored pencils.

Table of Contents

10 Best Affordable Colored Pencils

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
This product is ideal for artists, beginners, and anyone who enjoys coloring in adult coloring books.
2
This product is ideal for adult artists, professionals, and colorists seeking quality soft core colored leads and organized presentation.
3
The product is ideal for adult coloring books and drawing due to its smooth pigments and 24 coloring pencils.
4
The product is ideal for coloring, drawing, illustrating, and writing with a variety of non-toxic colored pencils.
5
Ideal for professional and amateur artists, drawing, coloring, shading, blending and layering. Comes in a compact metal tin.
6
Ideal for adult coloring books and as a premium colored pencil set with oil-based colors and extra accessories.
7
The product is ideal for coloring and drawing with its thick cores, 7-inch length, and assorted colors.
8
Ideal for adult coloring and art projects, this set includes 50 pencils with a sharpener for precise coloring.
9
The product is ideal for art, schoolwork, and writing purposes.
10
This product is ideal for adults who enjoy and use colored pencils for art, coloring, and creative projects.
This product is ideal for artists, beginners, and anyone who enjoys coloring in adult coloring books.
This product is ideal for adult artists, professionals, and colorists seeking quality soft core colored leads and organized presentation.
The product is ideal for adult coloring books and drawing due to its smooth pigments and 24 coloring pencils.
The product is ideal for coloring, drawing, illustrating, and writing with a variety of non-toxic colored pencils.
Ideal for professional and amateur artists, drawing, coloring, shading, blending and layering. Comes in a compact metal tin.
Ideal for adult coloring books and as a premium colored pencil set with oil-based colors and extra accessories.
The product is ideal for coloring and drawing with its thick cores, 7-inch length, and assorted colors.
Ideal for adult coloring and art projects, this set includes 50 pencils with a sharpener for precise coloring.
The product is ideal for art, schoolwork, and writing purposes.
This product is ideal for adults who enjoy and use colored pencils for art, coloring, and creative projects.

1. Softcore Soucolor: 72 Color Pencils For Art Lovers

The Soucolor Colored Pencil Set is the ultimate choice for artists, hobbyists, and coloring enthusiasts who demand premium quality and convenience. This set includes 72 colored pencils with soft leads that are easy to sharpen and won't break, crack, or crumble during use. With this extensive range of 72 individual colors, you can create colorful illustrations, blend, and shade with ease. Whether you're drawing, sketching, or coloring in an adult coloring book, these pencils offer a versatile and reliable solution.

The Soucolor Colored Pencil Set comes with a convenient eco-friendly tube that stores all 72 pencils and keeps the colors visible, making it easy to find the color you need. This pencil set is perfect for artists on the go or for those who like to keep their pencils organized at home.

One of the most significant advantages of using the Soucolor Colored Pencil Set is the safety it provides. The pencils are made of odorless materials and have received the EN71 safety certificate, ensuring that they are safe to use for all ages. However, please note that small parts may pose a choking hazard, and the pencils are not suitable for children under three years old.

2. Castlemaster 72 Colored Pencils Tin Set

The Essential range of 72 pencils is designed to make the process of selecting the perfect color effortless. Each pencil is arranged in color families, named, numbered, and color-coded for accurate selection. The pencils are presented in a handsome tin box with three layers, which can easily be flipped up to reveal your chosen color.

The latest advanced formulation by in-house artists and technicians has resulted in soft yet durable cores. These cores offer a buttery laydown that is resistant to crumbling under pressure and holds its point. This advanced technology ensures that the pencils are easy to use and will last a long time.

Using these pencils is an absolute joy. The colors are intensely pigmented, rich, and creamy, providing smooth coverage for effortless layering, blending, and burnishing. The colors can be used on a variety of surfaces, including paper, eggshell, canvas, wood, and more.

In addition to being great for creating beautiful artwork, these pencils can also help you build your skills. The unique fold-out tutorial included in the package allows you to refine your colored pencil skills by re-creating the stunning unicorn illustration on the sleeve cover. This feature makes these pencils perfect for both beginners and experienced artists alike.

The pencils have been tested by studio experts and have been found to outperform their competitors. They are trusted by over 1.5 million customers worldwide and come with a unique money-back-plus guarantee.

3. 24 Smooth Shades: Adult Black Widow Coloring Pencils

Experience the joy of silky-smooth coloring with these high-quality colored pencils! Whether you're a beginner or a professional artist, the buttery, smooth tips of these pencils will glide effortlessly across the paper, leaving behind vibrant colors that are sure to pop. With 24 vivid shades, including unique colors like Pigs Ear, Galaxy Blue, and Delicious Pink, you'll have a rainbow of options to choose from.

Each pencil is labeled with a clever name and number code on the barrel, making it easy to identify your favorite colors. Plus, a convenient color chart is included inside the tin packaging, so you can easily reference all of the available shades. The rich pigments blend and layer like velvet, resulting in a creamy finish that is sure to impress.

These pencils are designed with a wax core, which means they won't smudge or break when sharpened or pressed down to extract darker shades. This also means that you won't need to sharpen them as often, so the tips will stay sharp for longer. The sleek, Scorpion black barrel adds a touch of elegance to your art supplies, and the hexagon shape makes the pencils comfortable to hold and less likely to roll off of your drawing table.

Please note that these pencils are water-soluble and are not intended to be used as watercolors. However, they do blend beautifully even on black paper, allowing you to create stunning works of art with ease. Whether you're coloring in your favorite adult coloring book or creating a masterpiece from scratch, these colored pencils are sure to impress. So why wait? Add them to your art supplies today and start creating!

4. Metallic Masterpieces Colored Pencil Set

Unleash one's creativity with these acrylic and metallic colored pencils that offer a wide range of vibrant colors. Whether a beginner or an expert, these pencils are perfect for all types of artists. This set includes an impressive variety of 52 bright colors that are sure to inspire creativity.

These colored pencils are environmentally friendly as they are made of wood, which makes them easy to dispose of without any adverse effects on the environment. Additionally, the pencils are safe and non-toxic, making them ideal for use by children and adults alike.

The colored pencils come pre-sharpened, so there is no need to sharpen them before using them for the first time. This feature ensures that artists can start using them right out of the box without any delays.

5. Derwent Colored Pencils, Coloursoft Pencils, Drawing, Art, Metal Tin, 24 Count (0701027)

These Derwent pencils are perfect for artists of all skill levels looking to create vibrant and dynamic drawings. With a range of 24 colours, the round 4mm soft core allows for quick and easy application on a variety of drawing surfaces.

The velvety soft core emphasizes the richness of each colour and is ideal for building up colour quickly. This makes it easy to create dynamic and bold drawings with ease.

These pencils are also durable, with a break-resistant core that allows for sharpening to a fine point. This is especially useful for gaining greater precision on detailed drawings.

Thanks to their enhanced formulation, these pencils are highly blendable. This means that you can create a range of subtly different shades by blending colours together. They are perfect for still-life drawings and other artistic projects.

For best results, these pencils can be combined with other Derwent products, such as the Derwent Blender and Burnisher and the Derwent Battery Operated Eraser. This allows artists to get the most out of their drawing projects and achieve stunning results.

6. Joy-72 Premium Colored Pencils Set.

The SJ STAR-JOY Original Edition 72 colored pencils have been thoughtfully designed with the input of numerous professional colorists and artists. These pencils are crafted for artistic success, offering the perfect balance of professional quality and versatility. With these pencils, you can create a wide range of bold, vivid, subtle, and exciting effects, allowing you to find exclusive fun in your creative process and produce works of art you can be proud of.

Each pencil boasts a strong and reliable 3.5mm lead core, which guards against frustrating breakages during general use and sharpening, allowing you to color with confidence. The consecutive numbering on each pencil, along with the color name on the back, makes them easy to read and recognize.

This set also comes with additional premium accessories to enhance your coloring experience. The pure handmade woven canvas pencil wrap provides a convenient and protective storage solution for your 72 colored pencils. Additionally, the set includes a premium artist color pencil sharpener (color will be Red, Blue, Black in random) and a coloring pencils special eraser, as well as a pencil extender.

These colored pencils make for the perfect holiday gift for children and adults alike. Whether coloring in a favorite secret garden coloring book or drawing on a sketch pad, these pencils are sure to delight and inspire. They make a great gift for Christmas, Thanksgiving Day, birthdays, and other special occasions.

The SJ STAR-JOY team is committed to your satisfaction. We believe creating beautiful art should be easy and fun, and we are confident that this Original Edition colored pencils set will help you achieve your artistic goals. However, if you are not satisfied with the product, we guarantee to comply with our return or exchange policy. So, buy now with confidence and enjoy the creative possibilities these colored pencils offer!

7. Prang 12-Count Assorted Color Colored Pencils

These colored pencils are the perfect tool for artists and enthusiasts alike. With a smooth core, they deliver vivid, blendable colors and a soft laydown, making them ideal for a wide range of projects. Their durable design ensures that the long-lasting core provides bright colors that resist fading over time.

The 3.3mm break-resistant core holds up under pressure, which is perfect for those who have a heavy hand when drawing or coloring. The real wood casing ensures consistent, easy sharpening, so you can keep creating without any interruptions.

These colored pencils are AP certified non-toxic, so you can use them without worrying about harming yourself or the environment. The set includes twelve colors: Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Violet, Yellow-Green, Pink, Sky Blue, White, Black, and Brown.

Whether you're a professional artist or just starting out, these colored pencils are a must-have addition to your collection. They offer a high-quality, reliable option for all of your creative endeavors. With their smooth core and bright colors, you can easily bring your drawings, sketches, and artwork to life.

8. Colormaster Pencil Set: 50 Vivid Shades.

Introducing the Premium Colored Pencils, a set of 50 vibrant colored pencils perfect for adult coloring enthusiasts and professional artists alike. These high-quality pencils are designed to provide limitless creative freedom with their wide range of shades and smooth application.

Crafted with a soft lead, these coloring pencils offer a break-resistant core that ensures you won't have to endure the frustration of constantly sharpening or replacing broken leads. You can sharpen them again and again without worrying about the leads breaking. Moreover, these expert art pencils are made from lightfast pigment that won't fade over time, ensuring that your artwork retains its vibrant colors for years to come.

The Premium Colored Pencils are great for blending, shading and layering, making them the perfect choice for intricate and detailed artwork. They glide smoothly across your paper, blend beautifully and layer effortlessly, providing you with rich, deep coverage that is sure to amaze you.

This set of colored pencils for artists comes pre-sharpened and ready to use, and includes a sharpener to ensure that you always have sharp pencils on hand. These colored pencils are great for adult coloring books or for kids to sketch, color and create their own masterpiece of art.

The Premium Colored Pencils are a safe and trusted brand, perfect for art projects, school assignments, and adult coloring. With their high-quality construction and wide range of vibrant colors, these colored pencils are sure to inspire your creativity and elevate your artwork to the next level.

9. Sargent Art 09338000912 Pencils, 50 Count (Pack Of 1), Multicolor

These neon colored pencils are the perfect tool to inspire creativity in both beginners and experts. With 12 different bright and vibrant colors to choose from, users can explore their artistic side with ease.

Made from wood, these colored pencils are environmentally friendly and can be disposed of without causing any harm to the environment. Additionally, they are safe and non-toxic, making them a great choice for families with young children.

The colored pencils come pre-sharpened, making it easy to start using them right away without the need for sharpening. Each colored pencil features a color-coordinated barrel to match the lead inside, making it easy to identify the color you need.

With thick 3.3 millimeter leads, these colored pencils produce bold and vivid lines that stand out on paper. The set comes in a peggable, see-through window box for easy storage and organization.

These colored pencils are AP certified, meaning they meet the safety and performance standards set by the Art & Creative Materials Institute. The set includes 50 colored pencils, including 48 different colors, as well as an extra white and black pencil for added versatility.

10. Deluxe Adult Coloring Set With 50 Crayola Pencils

Introducing the Crayola Adult Colored Pencils, a deluxe set of 50 premium colored pencils that will bring your artwork to life. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, these pencils are perfect for all your coloring needs.

Each pencil comes pre-sharpened, so you can start coloring right away without the hassle of sharpening them yourself. The rich, vibrant colors are perfect for adding depth and dimension to your coloring books and art projects.

These colored pencils are not only great for personal use, but they also make a wonderful gift for teens and adults who love to color. The quality of the pencils and the wide selection of colors make them a perfect addition to any artist's collection.

One of the best features of these colored pencils is their strength and durability. They are built to last and can withstand the demands of even the most rigorous art projects, school assignments, and coloring books.

Crayola takes safety seriously, which is why these colored pencils are safe and non-toxic. They are ideal for individuals aged 12 and up, making them perfect for teens and adults alike.

Best Affordable Colored Pencils FAQs

Are there any affordable colored pencils that are comparable in quality to more expensive brands?

Yes, there are many affordable colored pencils that offer excellent quality and performance comparable to more expensive brands. Some of the popular affordable colored pencil brands include Prismacolor Scholar, Faber-Castell Goldfaber, Derwent Academy, and Staedtler Noris Club. These brands offer a wide range of vibrant colors, smooth and blendable texture, and good color coverage.

Prismacolor Scholar colored pencils, for example, are a more affordable alternative to Prismacolor Premier, but still offer a high-quality pigment and smooth application. Similarly, Faber-Castell Goldfaber colored pencils are a great option for artists who want a reliable colored pencil without breaking the bank.

Overall, it's important to note that the quality of colored pencils will depend on the artist's personal preferences, their project requirements, and the type of paper they are using. While more expensive brands may offer higher quality and more color options, affordable brands can still deliver great results for those on a budget.

Are there any affordable colored pencils that are particularly well-suited for specific types of art, such as illustration or coloring books?

Yes, there are many affordable colored pencils that can work well for various types of art. For example, Crayola colored pencils are a popular option for coloring books due to their affordability and vibrant colors. They are also relatively soft, making them easy to blend and layer. Prismacolor Scholar colored pencils are another affordable option that work well for illustration and detailed work. They have a harder lead than the standard Prismacolor pencils, which can be an advantage for creating precise lines and details. Another option is the Faber-Castell Goldfaber colored pencils, which are known for their lightfastness and rich, vibrant colors. They are a good choice for artists who want to ensure their work will not fade over time. Ultimately, the best colored pencils for a specific type of art will depend on the artist's personal preferences and the specific effects they want to achieve.

Can affordable colored pencils offer the same level of versatility and blending capabilities as more expensive options?

The level of versatility and blending capabilities that affordable colored pencils offer may vary depending on the brand and quality. However, it is possible to find affordable colored pencils that can offer similar results to more expensive options.

Some affordable colored pencil brands use high-quality pigments and have a soft core that allows for smooth blending and layering. These pencils can be used to create a range of effects, from bold and vibrant colors to subtle and nuanced shading.

That being said, more expensive colored pencils may have a wider range of colors and a higher pigment concentration, which can lead to more intense and long-lasting results. They may also have a smoother and more durable core, which can improve the overall performance and lifespan of the pencils.

In summary, while affordable colored pencils may not offer the same level of performance as more expensive options, it is still possible to find high-quality pencils that can provide excellent versatility and blending capabilities.

How do the color choices and pigmentation of affordable colored pencils compare to more expensive options?

The color choices and pigmentation of affordable colored pencils may not necessarily compare to more expensive options. Generally, more expensive colored pencils are made with higher quality materials and pigments, resulting in richer and more vibrant colors. In contrast, affordable colored pencils may contain lower quality pigments, causing colors to appear duller or less saturated.

However, this isn't always the case. Some affordable colored pencils may have a wide range of colors and good pigmentation, while some expensive options may not be as high quality as expected. It's important to note that the brand and specific line of colored pencils can also play a role in the quality of the colors and pigmentation.

Ultimately, the best way to compare the color choices and pigmentation of affordable versus expensive colored pencils is to do research and read reviews from other artists and users. This can give a better idea of the quality and performance of different colored pencil options, regardless of their price point.

How do the durability and longevity of affordable colored pencils compare to more expensive options?

The durability and longevity of colored pencils can vary greatly depending on the quality of the materials used and the manufacturing process. In general, more expensive colored pencils tend to be made with higher quality materials such as artist-grade pigments and stronger binders, which can result in a longer lifespan and better color saturation.

However, affordable colored pencils can still provide a decent level of durability and longevity, especially for casual use. It's important to note that the specific brand and type of colored pencil can also have an impact on how long they last and how well they perform.

In general, it's a good idea to invest in higher quality colored pencils if you plan on using them frequently or for professional-level artwork. However, if you're just starting out or using them for more casual purposes, affordable options can still be a good choice. Just be sure to read reviews and do some research before making a purchase to ensure you're getting the best value for your money.

What are some of the best affordable colored pencil brands available on the market?

When it comes to colored pencils, there are many affordable brands available in the market that offer great quality and value for money. Some of the best affordable colored pencil brands include Prismacolor Scholar, Faber-Castell Goldfaber, Staedtler Ergosoft, Crayola Colored Pencils, and Arteza Colored Pencils.

Prismacolor Scholar colored pencils are an excellent option for beginners and students, offering a smooth and creamy texture at an affordable price. Faber-Castell Goldfaber colored pencils are known for their high-quality pigments and durability. Staedtler Ergosoft colored pencils are ergonomically designed for comfortable use and offer a unique soft lead formulation.

Crayola colored pencils are a popular choice for their affordability and wide range of colors. Arteza colored pencils are a newer brand that offers a great balance of quality and affordability, with a range of vibrant colors and a durable lead.

Overall, the best affordable colored pencil brand for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. It's always a good idea to read reviews, compare prices, and try out different brands to find the one that works best for you.

What are some of the key features to look for when selecting affordable colored pencils?

When selecting affordable colored pencils, there are several key features to look for that can help you get the most for your money. Here are a few of the most important features to consider:

1. Pigment quality: High-quality pigments are essential for achieving vibrant colors and good coverage. Look for pencils that use high-quality pigments that are lightfast and blendable.

2. Core hardness: The hardness of the pencil core affects how easily it can be sharpened and how crisp the lines it produces are. Look for pencils with a core hardness that matches your needs, whether you prefer a soft, creamy feel or a harder, crisper line.

3. Color variety: The more colors a set of pencils offers, the more versatile it will be for a wider range of projects. Look for sets with a good variety of colors that can be mixed and blended to create unique shades.

4. Durability: Colored pencils that are prone to breaking or cracking can be frustrating to work with and may not last as long. Look for pencils with a strong, thick core and a durable outer casing.

By considering these key features, you can select affordable colored pencils that offer good value and quality for your needs.

What are some tips for getting the most out of affordable colored pencils?

Using affordable colored pencils can be a great way to start exploring the world of coloring and drawing, but it can be challenging to achieve the best results with them. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your affordable colored pencils:

1. Choose high-quality paper: Using high-quality paper with a smooth surface can help you achieve better results with affordable colored pencils.

2. Sharpen your pencils: Keeping your pencils sharp is essential to achieving fine details and smooth color transitions.

3. Layer your colors: Layering colors can help you achieve richer, deeper colors and create a more dynamic effect.

4. Experiment with different techniques: Try out different coloring techniques such as cross-hatching, blending, and burnishing to see what works best with your affordable colored pencils.

5. Keep your pencils clean: Clean your pencils regularly to prevent buildup and maintain their performance.

6. Practice, practice, practice: The more you practice, the better you will become at using your affordable colored pencils and achieving the results you desire.

By following these tips, you can get the most out of your affordable colored pencils and create stunning works of art.

Which affordable colored pencils are best suited for beginners or those new to art?

For beginners or those new to art, there are a few affordable colored pencils that are great options to start with. One of the most popular choices is the Prismacolor Scholar colored pencils. These pencils have a soft lead and come in a range of colors, making them a versatile choice for beginners. Another option is the Faber-Castell Goldfaber colored pencils, which have a slightly harder lead but still produce vibrant colors. They also come in a variety of sets, from 12 to 48 colors, allowing beginners to choose the set size that is right for them. The Staedtler Noris Club colored pencils are another good choice for beginners. They have a triangular shape that is comfortable to hold and a break-resistant lead that is ideal for younger artists. Overall, these three brands offer affordable colored pencils that are well-suited for beginners or those new to art.

Which colored pencil sets offer the best value for their price?

There are several colored pencil sets that offer great value for their price. One of the best options is the Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils set. It includes 72 pencils that are known for their vibrant colors and smooth application. Another great option is the Faber-Castell Polychromos Colored Pencils set, which offers 120 high-quality pencils that are perfect for professional artists and illustrators.

For those on a budget, the Castle Art Supplies Colored Pencils set is a great choice. It includes 72 pencils that are highly pigmented and durable, all for a reasonable price. Additionally, the Arteza Professional Colored Pencils set offers 72 pencils at an affordable price without sacrificing quality.

Ultimately, the best colored pencil sets for value will depend on individual preferences and needs. It is important to consider factors such as color selection, quality, and price when choosing a set that works best for you.