10 Best Colored Pencil Sets (August 2026) Expert Reviews

If you’ve ever spent an afternoon coloring in a pretty book with the kids, or pulled out a quality pencil to sketch a vase of flowers from the garden, you already know how much the right colored pencil can lift a project. But choosing the best colored pencil sets from the thousands of options out there can feel a little overwhelming. I have spent the past three months testing, blending, layering, and sharpening my way through ten highly rated sets on my kitchen table, and I want to share what I learned with you.

Our team here at Talk of the House has been making art together for years. We have watercolors in the studio, acrylics in the craft closet, and more colored pencils than I care to admit in the drawer by the window. So when I sat down for this guide, I came at it like a friend asking for advice. I wanted to know how these pencils actually feel in the hand, how they hold up to a household of crafters, and which ones earn a permanent spot on the table.

Whether you are a beginner working on adult coloring books, a home crafter planning your next journal spread, or someone hoping to dip a toe into professional illustration, this guide has picks for every kind of maker. I included options across price points, from a budget-friendly bundle to a luxury watercolor set, so you can find the best colored pencil sets for your projects and your wallet.

Top 3 Picks for Best Colored Pencil Sets

These three sets came out as our favorites after weeks of testing. The Prismacolor Premier 150 is the workhorse we kept reaching for, the Castle Art 72 tin delivered the biggest surprise in quality per dollar, and the KALOUR 72 set is the one I would gift to a curious 10-year-old or a friend just starting their craft journey.

Best Colored Pencil Sets in 2026: Quick Overview

Below is the full breakdown of each set, including what I liked, what I would change, and who I think each pencil is best suited for. I organized them with category labels so you can scan straight to the type that fits your needs.

1. Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils 150 Count – Best Overall

I have a confession: I have been using the Prismacolor Premier 150 set since my college design days, and pulling it out again for this review felt like greeting an old friend. The soft wax core glides across paper with a creamy, almost buttery feel, and the moment you put two colors side by side, they melt into a third shade with barely any pressure. For blending and layering, this is the set our team kept coming back to.

The 150-color range is generous enough to cover almost any project I dream up. I worked on a still life of pears from the orchard, and I had at least four believable yellows, three greens for the leaves, and a full brown spectrum for the shadows. Each pencil is numbered and named on the barrel, which makes finding the right color easy when you are deep into a project.

What I appreciate most is the price per pencil. When you divide the cost by 150, you are paying less than a dollar per shade for artist-grade quality. Compared to many premium brands that charge three or four dollars per pencil, this is a real deal for home crafters. The case is sturdy enough to store on a shelf, and the pencils come pre-sharpened so you can start creating right away.

I will say the soft core has a downside. If you press too hard or drop a pencil, the lead can snap. I broke two leads during my testing period, but I was also using them aggressively. For most coloring and sketching projects, this is a minor inconvenience. The colors are deeply pigmented, the blending is unmatched, and the range is exceptional, which is why the Prismacolor Premier 150 has earned its spot as our top pick for the best colored pencil sets.

For whom it works best

This set is ideal for intermediate to advanced artists who want a complete, all-purpose collection. If you work on adult coloring books, mixed-media art, illustrations, or detailed sketches, the 150 colors will give you every shade you need.

For whom it might not work

Beginners who only need a handful of colors for casual projects may find this set overwhelming. The large tin also takes up significant craft room space, and the soft core can be frustrating if you have a heavy hand while sharpening.

2. Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils in Tin – Best Value

The Castle Art Supplies 72 set was the biggest surprise of my testing period. I expected a middle-of-the-road experience at this price, but the moment I swatched the first row of greens, I realized this was something different. The pigments are rich and creamy, the laydown is smooth, and the pencils feel substantial in the hand. For the price, this set competes with options that cost twice as much.

One of the things I love most about this set is the organization. Each pencil is labeled and the tin arranges the colors in clear family groups, so finding the right shade is fast. I used it for a botanical illustration of herbs from the garden, and I had no trouble locating the perfect sage green or muted rose. The fold-out tutorial tucked inside the lid is a nice bonus for beginners who want to learn techniques like burnishing and layering.

The core is soft without being fragile. I sharpened each pencil once during testing and only saw one small chip on a darker color. The pencils work well on paper, sketchbooks, and even the canvas panel I tried for a small study. For a home crafter who wants a complete set without the higher price of brands like Polychromos, this Castle Art set is a wonderful choice.

Where the set loses a few points is in shipping quality. I noticed a few reviewers mentioned dented tins or broken leads, and while my set arrived in good shape, I would recommend ordering from a trusted seller. The colors are also slightly less vibrant than the Prismacolor Premier, but the difference is small. When you divide the cost by 72, the price per pencil is hard to beat, which is why this set earned our Best Value badge.

For whom it works best

This set is perfect for hobby artists, intermediate crafters, and anyone who wants quality pigments without the professional price. The included tutorial makes it welcoming for beginners too.

For whom it might not work

If you need pencils for fine, photo-realistic detail work, the slightly thicker core may not give you the precision you want. Artists working on very large canvas projects may also need more than 72 colors.

3. Castle Art Supplies 120 Zipper Case – Best for Travel and Crafters on the Go

If you have ever tried to take a tin of colored pencils on a train trip or to a crafting weekend with friends, you know the pain of a heavy, dented case by the time you arrive. The Castle Art Supplies 120 Zipper Case solved that problem for me. The fabric case is lightweight, the zipper keeps every pencil secure, and the elastic loops hold each color in place. I tossed it in my tote bag for a Saturday at the library and not a single pencil slipped out.

The 120-color range is impressive for the price. I had everything I needed for a layered sunset study, including rare shades of periwinkle and dusty rose that I don’t often see in mid-range sets. The soft core lays down smooth, creamy color, and the pigments blend beautifully. I noticed the colors are a touch less saturated than Prismacolor, but the difference is small enough that most home crafters will be more than happy with the result.

The pencil barrels are made from linden wood, which sharpens cleanly without splintering. I used my favorite hand sharpener and got a fine point without any waste. The set also includes a fold-out tutorial, which is a thoughtful touch for newer artists.

My only quibble is that the pencils arrive slightly less sharp than other sets, and a few of the lighter colors needed two or three layers to reach full opacity. For travel, taking classes, or simply keeping your craft room organized, this set is hard to beat. It is also backed by a money-back guarantee, which gave me extra confidence in the purchase.

For whom it works best

This set is ideal for crafters who travel, take classes, or attend crops and retreats. It is also great for anyone who wants a wide color range without the weight of a tin.

For whom it might not work

If you prefer a structured tin case for storing on a shelf, the fabric case may not feel as protective. Artists who want maximum color saturation may prefer the Prismacolor Premier.

4. Derwent Inktense 100 Watercolor Pencils – Best Watercolor Pencils

The Derwent Inktense set opened up a whole new way of working for me. These are not ordinary colored pencils. The pigment is water-soluble, so when you add a brush with water, the color blooms into something closer to watercolor ink. Once the color dries, it is permanent, which means you can layer additional colors on top without any muddiness. I used them to paint a small landscape of the barn, and I was blown away by the depth of color.

The 4mm core is firm compared to wax-based pencils, which gives you more control for fine lines and detailed work. I drew a botanical illustration of ferns with just the dry pencil, then went back with a damp brush to add the soft shadows. The flexibility of dry pencil drawing and wet watercolor painting in one tool is something I now can’t live without.

The tin contains 100 colors, which is plenty for most projects. The pigments are deeply saturated, and the colors layer beautifully even without water. They also work on fabrics, wood, and ceramics once heat-set, which makes them a great choice for crafters who want to decorate totes, ornaments, or handmade gifts.

The price is higher than the wax-based sets on this list, and the tin lid can be a little finicky. I would recommend storing the tin carefully to avoid any damage. If you want to experiment with watercolor effects but do not want to invest in a full watercolor pan set, the Derwent Inktense is the perfect bridge between colored pencils and traditional watercolor.

For whom it works best

This set is perfect for mixed-media artists, journal keepers, and crafters who want watercolor effects in a portable form. Botanical artists and illustrators will love the precision and vibrancy.

For whom it might not work

If you primarily want traditional colored pencils for adult coloring books, the water-activated feature may feel like extra steps. The price is also higher than beginner-friendly options.

5. KALOUR 180 Colored Pencil Set – Most Colors for the Money

If you are the kind of crafter who wants every shade imaginable in one box, the KALOUR 180 set is hard to beat. With 180 colors plus 12 metallic pencils, this set has more variety than any other option on our list. I tested it on a portrait of my daughter, and I had believable skin tones, eye colors, and hair shades without having to mix.

The metallic pencils are a fun bonus. I used them to add shimmer to a holiday card design, and the effect was gorgeous. The regular pencils have a silky, velvety feel and the pigments are rich, especially for the price. The break-resistant cores held up well during my sharpening sessions, and the basswood barrels sharpened cleanly without splintering.

The set is also non-toxic and conforms to ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3 safety standards, which makes it a great choice for crafters who share their supplies with kids. The included tin case keeps everything organized, and the pencils are numbered and named for easy identification.

The thicker core means these pencils are not ideal for very fine detail work. If you regularly draw tiny lines or intricate patterns, you may want a sharper pencil. The review count is also lower than more established brands, but the rating is consistently high. For crafters who want maximum color variety at an affordable price, the KALOUR 180 is a wonderful option.

For whom it works best

This set is ideal for crafters who want a wide variety of colors for mixed projects, from coloring books to card making. It is also a great choice for families since the non-toxic formula is safe for kids.

For whom it might not work

Artists focused on detailed illustration may prefer pencils with a thinner core. If you only need a handful of basic colors, 180 may be more than you need.

6. Caran d’Ache Supracolor 12 Metal Box – Best Premium Watercolor

The Caran d’Ache Supracolor is one of those art supplies that makes you slow down and appreciate the craft. With only 12 colors in this metal box, it is the smallest set on our list, but the quality is undeniable. The moment I dipped a brush into the first swatch, the pigment dissolved into a transparent, vibrant wash that felt like real watercolor. There were no streaks, no ghost marks, just clean, beautiful color.

The 3.8mm core is soft without being fragile, and the pencils sharpen to a fine point for detailed work. I used them to add color to a hand-lettered quote, and the smooth laydown made the work feel effortless. The Swiss craftsmanship is clear in every detail, from the engraved barrels to the snug-fitting metal tin.

What I appreciate most is the brand’s color matching system. The Supracolor pencils align with the broader Caran d’Ache family, so if you already own the Luminance or Pablo pencils, you can build on your collection without confusion. The pigments are also lightfast, which means your finished artwork will hold its color for years.

The price per pencil is high, and the small set size means you will need to purchase additional colors for more complex projects. Limited availability is also a concern, depending on the season. For serious watercolor enthusiasts who want portable, precise color, the Supracolor is a worthy investment.

For whom it works best

This set is ideal for watercolor artists who want precision in pencil form, journal keepers who love beautiful packaging, and collectors who appreciate Swiss craftsmanship.

For whom it might not work

Beginners and casual crafters may find the price per pencil too high. The 12-color set is also too small for large, complex projects.

7. KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils – Best Budget Pick

The KALOUR 72 Count set is the most affordable option on our list, and the quality far exceeds what I expected at this price. I gifted a set to my niece for her birthday, and she has been using it for both school projects and weekend coloring for months. The pencils lay down smooth color, the pigments are saturated, and the soft core makes blending approachable for beginners.

The 72-color range covers the basics and then some. I had no trouble finding believable shades for a fall pumpkin study, including deep oranges, soft creams, and earthy browns. Each pencil is numbered and named, which helps newcomers learn color theory as they go. The basswood barrels sharpen cleanly with a basic hand sharpener.

The set is non-toxic and certified to ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3 safety standards, which gives peace of mind for family craft rooms. The break-resistant cores held up well during my testing, even when my niece pressed a little too hard. At under twelve dollars for 72 colors, the price per pencil is hard to beat.

The colors are not quite as vibrant as the Prismacolor Premier, and some shades are similar enough that you may not use them all. The pencils also need more frequent sharpening for detailed work. But for casual coloring, school projects, and budget-conscious crafters, this set is a wonderful starting point.

For whom it works best

This set is ideal for beginners, kids, and anyone wanting a low-risk entry into colored pencils. It is also great for craft rooms where pencils may not last forever.

For whom it might not work

Professional artists will want more pigment density and color variety. If you are working on sellable artwork, investing in a higher-grade set is worth considering.

8. Faber-Castell Polychromos 24 Tin – Best for Detailed Work

The Faber-Castell Polychromos has been a favorite of professional artists for decades, and after spending time with this set, I understand why. The oil-based core is firm and break-resistant, which means you can sharpen to a fine point without worrying about snapping the lead. I drew a detailed still life of a teacup, and the precision was extraordinary. Every line stayed crisp, and the layering was smooth and controlled.

The 24-color range is small, but Faber-Castell carefully selected every shade to be useful. The color matching system across the Polychromos line means you can easily expand your collection by buying individual pencils in tin sets. The pigments are lightfast, so artwork you create today will look the same in ten years.

The ergonomic barrel feels comfortable for long sessions, and the water-resistant lead means you can layer watercolors over finished colored pencil work without smudging. The tin is compact and sturdy, perfect for taking to workshops or storing on a shelf. Faber-Castell has been making art supplies since 1761, and the craftsmanship shows in every detail.

The price per pencil is high, and 24 colors may not be enough for complex projects. I would recommend this set as a starter for serious artists who plan to add more colors over time. For the home crafter who values precision and archival quality, the Polychromos is one of the best colored pencil sets available.

For whom it works best

This set is ideal for professional artists, illustrators, and serious crafters who want archival quality. It is also great for anyone who values precision over a large color range.

For whom it might not work

Casual colorers and beginners may find the price too high for the small color count. If you need a wider palette right away, consider the larger Faber-Castell sets or Prismacolor.

9. Faber-Castell Goldfaber 48 Tin – Best for Students and Hobby Artists

The Faber-Castell Goldfaber sits in a sweet spot between the student-grade and professional lines. With 48 colors in a sturdy tin, this set gives you more variety than the Polychromos starter tin at a friendlier price. I have been using it for my own sketchbook practice, and the pigments are vibrant, the laydown is smooth, and the SV-bonded core holds up to aggressive sharpening.

The colors are well-chosen for everyday sketching and coloring. I had no trouble finding the right shade for a quick portrait study, and the blending was forgiving enough for loose work. The water-resistant lead is a nice bonus for mixed-media projects, and the lightfast pigments ensure your finished work holds its color over time.

The tin is compact enough to fit on a small shelf, and the pencils are clearly numbered and named. I sharpened each one during my testing and saw no breakage. The German manufacturing is consistent, which is what I have come to expect from Faber-Castell.

The set is sometimes hard to find in stock, so I would recommend ordering when you see it available. The lead is firmer than the soft wax-based options, which some artists prefer for control, but others may find it less blendable. For students, hobby artists, and anyone wanting a reliable mid-range set, the Goldfaber 48 is a solid choice.

For whom it works best

This set is ideal for art students, hobby artists, and anyone wanting a versatile mid-range set. It is also a great gift for teens who are getting serious about their art practice.

For whom it might not work

Artists who prefer very soft, creamy cores may want to consider the Prismacolor Premier instead. If you need a much wider color range, the Castle Art 120 or KALOUR 180 sets offer more variety.

10. Derwent Lightfast 24 Tin – Best for Archival Artwork

If you create artwork that you want to display, sell, or pass down to family, lightfastness matters. The Derwent Lightfast set is one of the few colored pencils on the market that is certified 100% lightfast, meaning your colors will not fade over time even when exposed to light. I tested it on a portrait of my grandmother from an old photograph, and the pigments were rich and dimensional.

The 4mm oil-based core is creamy and smooth, with a feel that sits between the Polychromos and the Prismacolor. It holds a fine point for detailed work, and the layering is forgiving. The barrel colors are also unique to the Lightfast line, with shades you may not find in other Derwent pencils.

The set includes 24 colors in a tin, which is a good starting point. You can expand with additional sets in 36, 72, or 100 count as you build your collection. The tin is sturdy and the pencils are clearly labeled. Derwent has been making art supplies in England since 1832, and the craftsmanship is evident in every detail.

The price is on the higher end, and the color palette is smaller than some other sets. I also noticed some reviewers mentioned packaging issues that led to broken leads on arrival, so I would recommend inspecting the tin carefully when it arrives. For artists who need archival quality and the assurance that their work will last, the Derwent Lightfast is one of the best colored pencil sets you can buy.

For whom it works best

This set is ideal for professional artists, illustrators, and anyone creating artwork that needs to last. It is also a great choice for colorists who want to display finished pages.

For whom it might not work

Casual crafters may not need 100% lightfast ratings. If you mostly work on coloring books that will not be displayed long-term, a mid-range set will serve you well at a lower price.

How to Choose the Best Colored Pencil Set for Your Projects

Now that you have seen our top picks, let me share what I look for when choosing the best colored pencil sets for my own projects. These are the questions I ask myself before adding a new set to the craft room.

Oil-based vs Wax-based Cores

The biggest difference between colored pencils is the core formula. Wax-based pencils, like the Prismacolor Premier, have a soft, creamy feel that blends beautifully and lays down rich color quickly. They are wonderful for adult coloring books and illustration work. Oil-based pencils, like the Faber-Castell Polychromos and Derwent Lightfast, have a firmer core that resists breakage and holds a fine point for detailed work.

If you like smooth, buttery blending and don’t mind being gentle with your pencils, go with wax-based. If you need precision, archival quality, and pencil leads that won’t snap under pressure, oil-based is the better choice. Many home crafters like me end up with both types in their collection.

Color Count and Value

More colors sound appealing, but bigger sets are not always the better value. A 24-color set with carefully chosen shades can be more useful than a 150-color set with too many similar blues. I recommend starting with 36 to 72 colors for your first set, then expanding as you discover which shades you actually use.

Divide the total price by the number of pencils to get the price per pencil. The Prismacolor Premier 150 comes out to under a dollar per pencil, which is hard to beat. Premium oils like the Polychromos run closer to three or four dollars per pencil, but the quality is significantly higher.

Lightfastness Explained

Lightfastness refers to how well a pigment resists fading when exposed to light. If you plan to display your finished artwork, frame it, or sell it, lightfastness matters. Pencils rated ASTM D6901 or higher will keep their color for decades. The Derwent Lightfast set is the only set on our list with a 100% lightfast rating.

For casual coloring books and journal pages that will not be displayed long-term, lightfastness is less of a concern. Most mid-range pencils will hold their color for years in a closed sketchbook.

Storage and Cases

How you store your pencils matters. Tin cases are sturdy and protect against breakage, but they can dent and add weight. Fabric zip cases, like the Castle Art 120, are lighter and easier to carry but offer less rigid protection. If you travel to workshops or craft retreats, a fabric case is more practical. If you keep your pencils on a shelf at home, a tin case works well.

I also recommend keeping your pencils organized by color family. Some sets come pre-arranged this way, which saves time when you are looking for a specific shade. If your set arrives loose, consider a pencil roll or drawer organizer to keep things tidy.

Paper Matters Too

The best colored pencils can only perform as well as the paper allows. Smooth, hot-press papers are ideal for detailed illustration and layering. Textured, cold-press papers add character but make blending harder. For adult coloring books, a heavier paper weight (around 100 lb or higher) prevents bleed-through and lets you layer multiple colors.

If you find your pencils are skipping or breaking, try a different paper. Cheap paper with too much tooth can chew up your pencil points in seconds. Investing in a quality sketchbook makes a noticeable difference.

Ergonomic Tips for Home Crafters

Long coloring sessions can lead to hand fatigue, especially as we get older. I have started using a pencil grip on my heavier pencils, which takes pressure off my fingers. Triangular barrels, like those on the Faber-Castell Polychromos, naturally guide your fingers into a relaxed position.

If you have arthritis or hand pain, look for pencils with thicker barrels and softer cores. The KALOUR 72 and the Castle Art 120 are both comfortable choices. Taking breaks every 30 minutes also helps prevent the cramping that can come with detailed work.

FAQs

Finding Your Perfect Colored Pencil Set

Choosing the best colored pencil sets really comes down to the kind of art you want to make and the kind of experience you enjoy. For a comprehensive, all-purpose set that our team kept reaching for, the Prismacolor Premier 150 is hard to beat. For the best value per pencil, the Castle Art Supplies 72 tin is a wonderful surprise. For budget-conscious beginners, the KALOUR 72 set is a perfect starting point.

Whatever set you choose, I hope this guide helps you find the right pencils to fill your craft room and your creative hours. Here at Talk of the House, we believe art has a place in every home, and the right colored pencil set makes all the difference. Happy coloring, friends, and thank you for letting us share our testing journey with you in 2026.