Top Colored Pencil Sets for Artists in 2025

When selecting colored pencils, artists often consider factors such as color vibrancy, blendability, durability, and price. Based on these criteria, here are some top recommendations for 2025:

1. Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils

Features:

• Soft, wax-based cores that provide smooth application and excellent blending capabilities.
• Available in sets ranging from 12 to 150 colors, catering to various artistic needs.
• Widely recognized for their rich pigmentation and ease of use.

Considerations:

• Some users report issues with breakage due to the softness of the cores. Proper handling and sharpening can mitigate this concern.

2. Caran d'Ache Luminance 6901 Colored Pencils

Features:

• Wax-based pencils known for their exceptional lightfastness, ensuring artwork longevity.
• Creamy texture suitable for layering and blending.
• Available in sets up to 100 colors.

Considerations:

• Higher price point compared to other brands, reflecting their premium quality.

3. Faber-Castell Polychromos Colored Pencils

Features:

• Oil-based cores that resist smudging and offer precise detailing.
• Strong leads that are less prone to breakage.
• Sets available up to 120 colors.

Considerations:

• Slightly harder cores may require more layering to achieve deep color saturation.

4. Derwent Coloursoft Colored Pencils

Features:

• Soft, wax-based cores ideal for blending and shading.
• Vibrant colors suitable for various artistic styles.
• Available in sets up to 72 colors.

Considerations:

• Softer cores may wear down quickly, necessitating frequent sharpening.

5. Arteza Professional Colored Pencils

Features:

• Budget-friendly option with a wide color range.
• Soft cores that allow for smooth application and blending.
• Sets available up to 120 colors.

Considerations:

• While offering good quality for the price, they may not match the performance of higher-end brands.

Conclusion

Choosing the right colored pencil set depends on individual preferences and artistic requirements. For those seeking premium quality and longevity, Caran d'Ache Luminance and Faber-Castell Polychromos are excellent choices. Prismacolor Premier offers a balance between quality and affordability, making them popular among many artists. For beginners or those on a budget, Arteza provides a cost-effective option without significantly compromising performance.

Note: Always consider factors such as lightfastness, blending capabilities, and personal comfort when selecting colored pencils to ensure they meet your artistic needs.