We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Watercolor Pencils 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

KALOUR 72-Color Professional Watercolor Pencils Set with Brush and Water Brush Pen, Hexagonal Shape, Blendable Wet or Dry, Water-Soluble Colored Pencils for Artists and Beginners

The KALOUR 72-Color Professional Watercolor Pencils Set offers a rich and versatile collection of vibrant hues, making it suitable for both experienced artists and beginners. The pigment quality is high, ensuring vivid and smooth color application, which can be used both dry and wet to achieve beautiful watercolor effects. The comprehensive color range of 72 shades allows for extensive blending and layering, catering to diverse artistic needs.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,126
Solubility
Color Range

Most important from
386 reviews

Solubility
These pencils are fabulous fun and work well with water brushes to create nice and juicy designs across the page.
Color Range
Great quality and feel good to use with a decent color variety and smooth application.
#2
10.0 score

Faber Castell Albrecht Durer 120 Watercolor Pencil Set Tin

The Faber Castell Albrecht Durer 120 Watercolor Pencil Set is a strong choice for adults looking for professional-quality watercolor pencils. These pencils stand out due to their highly pigmented leads that dissolve completely when water is applied, allowing smooth and vibrant color blending. The 3.3mm leads are SV-bonded, which means they are less likely to break, making them durable and reliable. With 120 colors available, the set offers an extensive range that suits detailed and colorful artwork. The pencil hardness is rated as 'F' (firm), providing a good balance between softness for color laying and firmness for precision. Faber-Castell is a well-known and respected brand in art supplies, adding confidence to the product's quality.

Rating
10.0
Pigment Quality
Lightfastness
Solubility

Most important from
1172 reviews

Pigment Quality
The pencils deliver smooth color application with firm leads that layer well without being scratchy or messy.
Lightfastness
The color shift between dry and wet use is minimal, preserving true hues like a consistent red that doesn’t turn magenta.
Solubility
They activate with minimal water, producing exquisite, luminous colors that match perfectly with other Faber Castell products.
Color Range
The extensive 120-color range offers unmatched versatility for detailed and colorful artwork.
Pencil Hardness
The pencils sharpen easily to a lasting fine point, allowing for precision work and fine detail.
Brand Reputation
The packaging includes careful protective layers, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
#3
10.0 score

Winsor & Newton Studio Collection Artist Pencils, Watercolor Pencils, Set of 24

The Winsor & Newton Studio Collection Artist Watercolor Pencils are a fantastic choice for artists looking to explore the versatility of watercolor effects. One of the standout features is their high pigment quality, which ensures vibrant hues that can easily be blended, whether used dry or with water. Lightfastness is another strong point; these pencils resist fading over time, making them suitable for works that will be displayed or sold. The range of colors in this set of 24 is impressive, providing a good variety to help artists achieve the desired shades for their projects.

Rating
10.0
Color Range
Brand Reputation

Most important from
5859 reviews

Color Range
The range of shades is so refined that it elevates the quality of any drawing, making even mistakes look artful.
Brand Reputation
These pencils are much less expensive than high-end brands but are completely adequate for non-professionals and kids.

Top 10 Best Watercolor Pencils 2025 in the United States

Faber Castell Albrecht Durer 120 Watercolor Pencil Set Tin

Pigment Quality: highly pigmented
Solubility: dissolves completely with water
Color Range: 120 colors
Pencil Hardness: F
Brand Reputation: well-known and respected

Winsor & Newton Studio Collection Artist Pencils, Watercolor Pencils, Set of 24

Pigment Quality: high
Lightfastness: resist fading over time
Solubility: blended dry or with water
Color Range: 24
Pencil Hardness: 3.7mm core, break-resistant
Brand Reputation: Winsor & Newton

Caran dAche Museum Watercolour Pencils (Pack of 76)

Pigment Quality: Exceptional
Lightfastness: Excellent
Solubility: Water-soluble
Color Range: 76 colors
Pencil Hardness: HB
Brand Reputation: Well-regarded

Derwent Drawing Pencils, Inktense, 4mm Core, Metal Tin, Watercolor, 12 Coun

Pigment Quality: highly pigmented
Lightfastness: not optimized
Solubility: dissolves well in water
Color Range: 12 different shades
Pencil Hardness: Soft
Brand Reputation: respected

Faber-Castell Creative Studio Goldfaber Watercolor Pencils (24 Count)

Pigment Quality: high
Lightfastness: excellent
Solubility: fully water-soluble
Color Range: 24 colors
Brand Reputation: top-quality
How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Buying Guide for the Best Watercolor Pencils

Choosing the right watercolor pencils can significantly enhance your artistic experience and the quality of your artwork. Watercolor pencils are versatile tools that combine the precision of colored pencils with the fluidity of watercolors. When selecting watercolor pencils, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your artistic needs and preferences.
Pigment QualityPigment quality refers to the richness and vibrancy of the colors produced by the pencils. High-quality pigments result in more vivid and long-lasting colors. Artists who require professional-grade results should look for pencils with high pigment concentration. For beginners or hobbyists, student-grade pencils with decent pigment quality can be a good starting point.
LightfastnessLightfastness is the ability of the pencil's color to resist fading when exposed to light over time. This is important for artists who want their work to remain vibrant and unchanged for years. Lightfastness is usually rated on a scale, with higher ratings indicating better resistance to fading. If you plan to display your artwork or sell it, opt for pencils with high lightfastness ratings.
SolubilitySolubility refers to how well the pencil's pigment dissolves in water. Good solubility allows for smooth blending and a more watercolor-like effect. Pencils with high solubility are ideal for creating washes and gradients. If you prefer more control and less blending, pencils with moderate solubility might be more suitable.
Color RangeThe color range is the variety of colors available in a set of watercolor pencils. A larger color range provides more options for creating detailed and nuanced artwork. Artists who work on complex pieces or enjoy experimenting with colors should consider sets with a wide range of hues. For simpler projects or beginners, a basic set with essential colors may suffice.
Pencil HardnessPencil hardness affects the ease of application and the type of marks you can make. Softer pencils lay down more pigment and blend easily, making them great for rich, bold strokes. Harder pencils are better for fine details and precise lines. Consider your drawing style and the type of artwork you create when choosing the hardness of your pencils.
Brand ReputationBrand reputation can be an indicator of quality and reliability. Established brands often have a history of producing high-quality art supplies and may offer better customer support. Reading reviews and seeking recommendations from other artists can help you choose a reputable brand that meets your needs.

FAQ