For the best colored pencils overall, I’d start with the Prismacolor Premier 48-count set: its soft core and broad palette offer a useful balance for blending and detailed work. The Faber-Castell Goldfaber 48-count tin is a strong alternative for artists who prefer a firmer, more controlled pencil, while the Prismacolor Premier 150-count set suits colorists who want extensive shade choices. The main tradeoffs are soft versus firm cores, compact palettes versus large assortments, and a pencil set alone versus extras such as a sketchbook or sharpener. I compare all 15 options by their intended use, range, and practical drawbacks below. Read on for the full breakdown and help choosing the right set for your work.
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Key Takeaways
- Prismacolor Premier 48-count is my best overall pick because it combines a soft core suited to layering and blending with a useful middle-sized palette.
- Faber-Castell Goldfaber 48-count offers a firmer-feeling alternative for buyers who value controlled marks and less softness under the pencil.
- The large KALOUR, PRINA, and Castle Art sets offer broad color selection, but a higher count is most useful when you will actually use subtle shade differences.
- Prismacolor‘s 12-, 24-, 36-, and 48-count sets make it possible to choose the palette size that fits your projects without jumping straight to 150 colors.
- Sets with sketchbooks, sharpeners, or metallic pencils add convenience or variety, while their extras may matter less than core feel and color selection for focused drawing.
| KALOUR Soft-Core Colored Pencils, Set of 50 |  | Best Compact Blendable Set | Pencil count: 50 | Core: Soft | Pigment: Highly concentrated | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| PRINA 120-Color Oil-Based Colored Pencil Set with Sketchbook |  | Best Starter Bundle for Technique Practice | Pencil count: 120 | Pencil type: Oil-based | Core: Soft and thick | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors, 48 Count |  | Best Artist-Quality Mid-Size Set | Brand and series: Prismacolor Premier | Pencil count: 48 | Core: Soft and thick | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Castle Art Supplies 120 Colored Pencils for Adults |  | Best Organized Large Palette | Pencil count: 120 | Core: Soft and durable | Colors: Assorted | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 24 Assorted Colors |  | Best Small Artist Set | Brand and series: Prismacolor Premier | Pencil count: 24 | Colors: Assorted | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, Botanical Garden Set, 12 Count |  | Best for Botanical Subjects | Type: Soft core colored pencils | Count: 12 pencils | Colors: Pomegranate, Pink, Pink Rose, Pale Vermilion, Lemon Yellow, Olive Green, Spring Green, Grass Green, Blue Slate, Non Photo Blue, Lavender, Dahlia Purple | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Faber-Castell Goldfaber Colored Pencils, 48-Count Tin |  | Best for Durable Everyday Drawing | Brand and model: Faber-Castell Goldfaber | Color count: 48 | Lead diameter: 3.3 mm | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KALOUR 180-Count Colored Pencil Set with 12 Metallic Pencils |  | Best for Maximum Color Variety | Count: 180 pencils | Metallic pencils: 12 | Core: Soft, break-resistant | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencil Set |  | Best for Ready-to-Color Variety | Set size: 72 pencils | Core: Soft, break-resistant | Material: Wood | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KALOUR Premium Colored Pencils, 120 Colors |  | Best Accessory Bundle | Brand: KALOUR | Set size: 120 colored pencils | Included accessories: Blender pencil, white marker, sharpener, and storage tube | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 36 Count |  | Best for Shading | Count: 36 pencils | Core: Soft, thick core | Pigments: Lightfast and richly saturated | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils for Adults, Soft Core |  | Best for an Organized Color Range | Quantity: 72 colored pencils | Core: Soft core | Color organization: Pencils are named, numbered, color-coded, and arranged in color families | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 12 Count |  | Best Prismacolor Starter Set | Count: 12 pencils | Core: Soft, thick | Colors: True Blue, Grass Green, Apple Green, Canary Yellow, Orange, Crimson Red, Violet, Violet Blue, Sienna Brown, Dark Brown, Black, and White | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Finenolo 36-Pack Colored Pencils with Soft Core and Sharpener |  | Best Beginner Kit with Sharpener | Quantity: 36 pencils | Color: Multicolor; individual colors not specified | Core: Soft | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 150 Assorted Colors |  | Best for a Full-Range Palette | Count: 150 pencils | Core: Soft, thick core | Colors: Assorted | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| colored pencil | Core |
|---|---|
| KALOUR Soft-Core Colored Penci | Soft |
| PRINA 120-Color Oil-Based Colo | Soft and thick |
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core | Soft and thick |
| Castle Art Supplies 120 Colore | Soft and durable |
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core | Soft and thick |
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core | — |
| Faber-Castell Goldfaber Colore | — |
| KALOUR 180-Count Colored Penci | Soft, break-resistant |
| Soucolor 72-Color Colored Penc | Soft, break-resistant |
| KALOUR Premium Colored Pencils | Soft, highly pigmented |
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core | Soft, thick core |
| Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored | Soft core |
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core | Soft, thick |
| Finenolo 36-Pack Colored Penci | Soft |
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core | Soft, thick core |
More Details on Our Top Picks
KALOUR Soft-Core Colored Pencils, Set of 50
The KALOUR Soft-Core 50-piece set suits artists and coloring enthusiasts who want soft, blendable colors without carrying a large collection. Its numbered, named pencils make it easier to find and return to a shade than an unlabeled assortment, while the portable tube takes up less room than the presentation tin used by the Castle Art Supplies 120 Colored Pencils. The soft cores support layering, shading, and detailed drawing, giving this set more room for technique than a basic coloring pack. Its main tradeoff is range: 50 colors offer fewer choices for subtle hue shifts than the 120-pencil Castle Art or PRINA sets. The description also gives no lightfastness information, so buyers planning artwork for long-term display have less to go on.
Pros:- 50 numbered pencils with color names simplify shade selection and organization
- Soft cores support layering, blending, and shading
- Highly concentrated pigment suits detailed drawing
- Portable tube is convenient for storage and travel
Cons:- Smaller color range than the 120-pencil PRINA and Castle Art sets
- No lightfastness information is provided
- Plastic tube offers less structured, at-a-glance access than a layered tin
Best for: Traveling colorists and newer artists who want an organized, portable set for blending and detailed drawing.
Not ideal for: Artists who need a broad palette for fine color gradations or documented lightfastness for display work.
- Pencil count:50
- Core:Soft
- Pigment:Highly concentrated
- Pencil identification:Numbered and named
- Techniques:Blending, layering, and shading
- Packaging:Portable tube
- Packaging material:Plastic
Our verdict“Choose this set for a portable, organized palette with soft blendable cores; pick a 120-color set if range matters more.”
PRINA 120-Color Oil-Based Colored Pencil Set with Sketchbook
The PRINA 120-color oil-based set is aimed at adults who want a wide palette and a guided way to start drawing. Its soft, thick cores support layering, blending, and shading, while the included three-color sketchbook and tutorial give beginners a place and prompt to practice. That makes it a more complete learning bundle than the KALOUR Soft-Core 50-piece set, which focuses on a smaller pencil collection and portability. The zipper case keeps the 120 pencils together, though a collection this large takes more room than a compact set. The supplied information names ASTM D-4236 and EN71 safety standards, but says nothing about lightfastness or replacement-pencil availability. Artists choosing colors for lasting, display-ready work may prefer a set with clearer longevity information.
Pros:- 120 colors provide a broad selection for shading and color variation
- Soft, thick cores support layering and blending
- Three-color sketchbook and drawing tutorial are included
- Zipper case keeps the pencils organized for storage and transport
Cons:- Lightfastness information is not provided
- Replacement-pencil availability is unspecified
- Large set is less compact than smaller options such as KALOUR’s 50-pencil tube
Best for: Adult beginners who want many color choices plus a sketchbook and tutorial to support practice.
Not ideal for: Artists buying pencils for archival display work or anyone who prioritizes known lightfastness and replacement availability.
- Pencil count:120
- Pencil type:Oil-based
- Core:Soft and thick
- Included components:Three-color sketchbook and drawing tutorial
- Storage:Portable zipper case
- Safety standards:ASTM D-4236 and EN71
- Age range:Adult
Our verdict“Pick PRINA if you want a large practice set with learning materials; look elsewhere if documented lightfastness is a priority.”
Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, Assorted Colors, 48 Count
The Prismacolor Premier 48-count set is a strong fit for artists who value smooth blending and saturated color but do not need a 120-pencil assortment. Its soft, thick cores are designed for shading and layering, and the leads are described as resistant to breaking and chipping, which may help during regular use. The portable tin gives it sturdier storage than the KALOUR Soft-Core 50-piece set’s tube, though the KALOUR set includes two more pencils and identifies shades by name and number. Prismacolor’s description also specifies waterproof colors, a useful distinction from its 24-count set, which is listed as not water resistant. The tradeoff is a smaller palette than Castle Art’s 120-color set, and the tin artwork may vary. Buyers seeking lightfastness details should check further, as they are not provided here.
Pros:- Soft, thick cores support smooth blending, shading, and layering
- Richly pigmented colors are described as waterproof
- Leads are designed to resist breaking and chipping
- Portable tin provides contained storage
Cons:- 48 colors give less range than Castle Art’s 120-pencil set
- Tin artwork may vary
- Lightfastness information is not included in the supplied description
Best for: Colorists and artists who want a mid-size set of soft, saturated pencils in a protective portable tin.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need a very broad color range, fixed tin artwork, or supplied lightfastness details.
- Brand and series:Prismacolor Premier
- Pencil count:48
- Core:Soft and thick
- Colors:Assorted; waterproof
- Case:Tin
- Lead feature:Designed to resist breaking and chipping
- Package dimensions:9-3/4 × 8-1/8 × 7/8 inches
- Made in:USA
Our verdict“Choose the 48-count Prismacolor set for blendable, waterproof colors in a tin when a mid-size palette is enough.”
Castle Art Supplies 120 Colored Pencils for Adults
The Castle Art Supplies 120-pencil set is suited to artists who want a large assortment that is easy to navigate. Named, numbered, and color-coded pencils reduce the guesswork of finding a shade, while the three-layer presentation tin keeps a broad collection arranged and includes a fold-out drawing tutorial. That organization gives it an advantage over the PRINA 120-color set, whose zipper case is portable but does not offer the same described layered presentation. The soft, richly pigmented cores support blending, layering, and burnishing, so the large selection can serve more than basic coloring. The cost of that range is bulk: this is less convenient to carry than the KALOUR 50-pencil tube. The product details do not specify lightfastness, leaving display artists without that longevity information.
Pros:- 120 colors provide a broad palette
- Pencils are named, numbered, and color-coded for easier shade selection
- Soft cores support blending, layering, and burnishing
- Three-layer presentation tin and fold-out drawing tutorial are included
Cons:- Three-layer tin is bulkier to carry than KALOUR’s 50-pencil tube
- Lightfastness information is not specified
- Fine point and listed 0.3 mm line size may not suit artists seeking broad, soft coverage
Best for: Adult colorists who want a broad, clearly labeled palette arranged in a layered tin, with a tutorial for reference.
Not ideal for: Travelers who want a compact kit or artists who need stated lightfastness information for display work.
- Pencil count:120
- Core:Soft and durable
- Colors:Assorted
- Pencil identification:Named, numbered, and color-coded
- Case:Three-layer presentation tin
- Material:Wood
- Point and line size:Fine point; 0.3 mm line size
- Included guide:Fold-out drawing tutorial
Our verdict“Choose Castle Art for a large, well-organized palette and tutorial; choose a smaller set if easy transport matters more.”
Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 24 Assorted Colors
The Prismacolor Premier 24-count set keeps the brand’s soft, thick cores and smooth laydown in a smaller assortment for artists who prefer a manageable palette. Its saturated pigments and cores designed to resist cracking and chipping suit blending, shading, and layering, while the tin makes the pencils easy to store. Compared with the Prismacolor Premier 48-count set, this version has half as many pencils and is explicitly listed as not water resistant; it is also supplied unsharpened, so drawing requires a sharpener before use. Its product data describes the pigments as lightfast, which may appeal to artists thinking about color longevity, but the narrow selection leaves less room for nuanced color changes than either the 48-count Prismacolor or 120-color Castle Art set. This is a focused starter palette, not a broad collection.
Pros:- Soft, thick cores support blending, shading, and layering
- Richly saturated pigments are described as lightfast
- Leads are designed to resist cracking and chipping
- Tin case provides storage and portability
Cons:- Only 24 colors, fewer than the Prismacolor 48-count and Castle Art 120-color sets
- Pencils are unsharpened and need preparation before drawing
- Colors are not water resistant
Best for: Artists who want a compact Prismacolor palette for blending and shading, and are comfortable sharpening pencils before use.
Not ideal for: Colorists who need many close color variations, water-resistant colors, or pencils ready to use straight from the tin.
- Brand and series:Prismacolor Premier
- Pencil count:24
- Colors:Assorted
- Core:Soft and thick
- Lead feature:Designed to resist cracking and chipping
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
- Packaging:Tin case
- Sharpening:Unsharpened
Our verdict“Pick this set for a compact, lightfast Prismacolor palette if 24 shades are enough and you do not need water resistance.”
Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, Botanical Garden Set, 12 Count
The Botanical Garden set is a focused pick for drawing flowers, leaves, and trees, with a palette that includes several greens alongside pinks, purples, and blue tones. Its soft core is designed for saturated laydown and blending, which helps when building shaded petals or layering foliage. Compared with the broader 12-color Prismacolor Premier Assorted Colors set, this one trades general-purpose coverage for colors chosen around botanical subjects. The small selection can make color choices simpler, but it limits variety for scenes that need a wider range of neutrals or unrelated hues. Like the other soft-core options here, it suits shading and blending better than buyers who want a compact set to cover every subject. I’d choose it for a flower-focused palette, not as my only set for varied artwork.
Pros:- Botanical-focused selection includes multiple greens plus floral pinks and purples
- Soft cores are designed for rich color laydown
- Blending and shading suit layered petals and foliage
- Small palette keeps subject-specific color choices manageable
Cons:- Only 12 colors, limiting range across subjects
- Soft cores may wear down faster during heavy layering or sharpening
Best for: Flower and nature artists who want a compact palette with several greens and coordinated floral colors
Not ideal for: Artists seeking broad color coverage for portraits, landscapes, and mixed subjects from one set
- Type:Soft core colored pencils
- Count:12 pencils
- Colors:Pomegranate, Pink, Pink Rose, Pale Vermilion, Lemon Yellow, Olive Green, Spring Green, Grass Green, Blue Slate, Non Photo Blue, Lavender, Dahlia Purple
- Core characteristics:Soft, thick cores
- Color laydown:Rich saturation
- Techniques:Blending and shading
Our verdict“Choose this set for compact, flower-focused drawing; pick the Prismacolor Premier Assorted Colors 12 Count for more general subject coverage.”
Faber-Castell Goldfaber Colored Pencils, 48-Count Tin
Goldfaber’s 48-color set balances range with a lead built for regular student and hobby use. The 3.3 mm SV-bonded leads are designed to resist breaking, smudging, and water, giving this set a more durability-minded profile than the soft-core KALOUR 180-Count set, whose larger palette is better suited to color variety and layering. Its smooth, highly pigmented laydown still supports expressive drawing, while 48 colors offer room to sketch and color without managing a very large collection. The tradeoff is scope: the product is positioned for students and hobby artists rather than as a specified professional line, and it has fewer shades than the 120- and 180-pencil sets in this roundup. The reusable metal tin keeps the pencils together, though this remains a moderate palette rather than an expansive one.
Pros:- 48 colors cover a useful range for drawing, sketching, and coloring
- 3.3 mm SV-bonded leads are designed to resist breaking
- Smooth, highly pigmented color laydown
- Reusable metal tin provides compact storage
Cons:- Smaller palette than the KALOUR 120- and 180-count sets
- Positioned for students and hobby artists rather than specified professional use
Best for: Students and hobby artists who want a varied drawing set with leads designed to withstand regular sharpening and handling
Not ideal for: Artists who need a very large shade library or are specifically seeking pencils described for professional use
- Brand and model:Faber-Castell Goldfaber
- Color count:48
- Lead diameter:3.3 mm
- Lead type:SV-bonded
- Included components:48 colored pencils and metal tin
- Recommended uses:Drawing, sketching, and coloring
- Country of manufacture:Germany
- Item dimensions:1 x 8.63 x 7.88 inches
Our verdict“Pick Goldfaber for a mid-sized, durability-minded set for regular drawing, while colorists wanting maximum shade choice should look at KALOUR’s larger sets.”
KALOUR 180-Count Colored Pencil Set with 12 Metallic Pencils
With 180 pencils, including 12 metallic colors, this KALOUR set offers the broadest palette in this batch. That scale gives colorists more options for separating subtle shades or adding metallic accents, while numbered and named pencils make it easier to find a specific color again. Compared with KALOUR Premium 120 Colors, it adds 60 pencils and metallics, but the larger collection also takes more room and may be more than a casual colorist needs. The soft, richly pigmented cores are intended for blending and layering, so the range has practical value for detailed work; the tradeoff is that soft cores may need frequent sharpening. Its basswood pencils sit in a tin with a plastic organizing tray, offering structured storage for a set whose size would otherwise be harder to manage.
Pros:- 180 pencils provide the largest color selection in this batch
- Includes 12 metallic pencils for accent work
- Numbered and named pencils simplify identification
- Tin and plastic tray organize and protect the collection
Cons:- Soft cores may require frequent sharpening
- Large set takes more storage space than the 120- or 48-count alternatives
Best for: Detail-oriented colorists who want a very broad palette, metallic accents, and labeled pencils for repeatable color selection
Not ideal for: Occasional users who prefer a small portable set or do not need many closely varied shades
- Count:180 pencils
- Metallic pencils:12
- Core:Soft, break-resistant
- Material:Basswood
- Color identification:Numbered and named
- Case:Tin with plastic organizing tray
- Safety:Non-toxic; conforms to ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3
Our verdict“Choose this set when palette breadth and metallic options matter more than compact storage or a minimal pencil collection.”
Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencil Set
Soucolor’s 72 pre-sharpened pencils make it easy to start coloring without first setting up a sharpener. The numbered colors support quick identification, and the soft, pigmented cores are intended for smooth shading, blending, and layering. Compared with the 48-count Faber-Castell Goldfaber set, Soucolor supplies more colors and arrives sharpened; Goldfaber, by contrast, specifies SV-bonded leads designed to resist smudging and water. Soucolor’s wood pencils are described as easy to sharpen, but their soft cores call for careful handling, and this set is not water resistant. That makes it a better fit for dry coloring, sketching, and crafts than for work where moisture resistance matters. The 72-color range is substantial without reaching the storage demands of KALOUR’s 180-count collection.
Pros:- 72 colors offer broad choice for coloring and crafts
- Pre-sharpened pencils are ready to use
- Numbered colors make identification easier
- Soft cores are intended for blending and shading
Cons:- Not water resistant
- Soft cores may need careful handling
Best for: Coloring-book users and hobby artists who want a ready-sharpened, numbered palette for dry projects
Not ideal for: Artists working with water exposure or those who want leads specifically designed to resist water and smudging
- Set size:72 pencils
- Core:Soft, break-resistant
- Material:Wood
- Lead diameter:3 mm
- Pre-sharpened:Yes
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
- Safety:Non-toxic; EN71-3 certified
Our verdict“Pick Soucolor for a ready-to-use 72-color dry-media set; choose Goldfaber if resistance to water and smudging is a priority.”
KALOUR Premium Colored Pencils, 120 Colors
This KALOUR 120-color set pairs a broad palette with tools for blending and basic setup: a blender pencil, white marker, sharpener, and storage tube are included. The soft, highly pigmented cores are intended for layering, while numbered pencils make colors easier to locate. Compared with KALOUR’s 180-count set, this option gives up 60 colors and the metallic-pencil selection, but takes a more manageable approach and still includes accessories. The bundle may suit someone building a drawing kit, though the supplied details do not specify the white marker’s type or the storage tube’s capacity, so buyers should not assume more than the listed components. Its soft core favors blending, with frequent sharpening a possible tradeoff for artists who work through many layers. I’d choose it over a bare pencil set when the included tools match the buyer’s needs.
Pros:- 120 colors provide broad choice for layered artwork
- Soft, highly pigmented cores are intended for blending
- Numbered pencils help with color identification
- Includes a blender pencil, white marker, sharpener, and storage tube
Cons:- Smaller palette than KALOUR’s 180-count set
- Soft cores may require frequent sharpening
- Marker type and storage tube capacity are not specified
Best for: Hobby artists assembling a starter drawing kit who want 120 colors plus a blender, marker, sharpener, and storage tube
Not ideal for: Colorists who want metallic pencils or the widest palette available in this batch
- Brand:KALOUR
- Set size:120 colored pencils
- Included accessories:Blender pencil, white marker, sharpener, and storage tube
- Core:Soft, highly pigmented
- Pencil body material:Basswood
- Safety:Non-toxic; conforms to ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3
- Line size:3.3 millimeters
Our verdict“Choose this bundle for 120 colors and included drawing tools, while the KALOUR 180-count set suits buyers who put maximum range first.”
Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 36 Count
Soft, thick cores make this 36-pencil Prismacolor set a strong choice for artists who build form with shadows, blended color, and gradual shading. Its richly saturated pigments lay down smoothly, so a smaller palette can still produce bold results. Compared with the Prismacolor Premier 12 Count, the 36-count set gives you more room to vary hues without moving into a large collection; the Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils offers twice as many colors for users who prioritize range. The tradeoff is that 36 colors may still leave gaps for detailed color matching, and soft cores can wear down faster during broad coverage. A tin keeps the set together, though its artwork may vary.
Pros:- Soft, thick cores support shading and shadows
- Smooth, even color laydown
- Richly saturated pigments
- Leads are designed to resist cracking and chipping
Cons:- A 36-color palette offers less range than larger sets such as Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils
- Soft cores can wear down more quickly during broad coverage
Best for: Artists who want a manageable Prismacolor palette for shading, shadows, and saturated drawings.
Not ideal for: Colorists who need a very broad palette for subtle color matching or prefer harder cores for long stretches of broad coverage.
- Count:36 pencils
- Core:Soft, thick core
- Pigments:Lightfast and richly saturated
- Color laydown:Smooth and even
- Lead durability:Designed to resist cracking and chipping
- Packaging:Tin
- Packaging variation:Tin artwork may vary
Our verdict“Choose this set if shading and saturated color matter more to you than having the widest possible palette.”
Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils for Adults, Soft Core
The 72 named, numbered, color-coded pencils make this Castle Art set a practical pick for colorists who want variety without sorting an unlabeled collection. Its three-layer presentation tin groups pencils in color families, which can make matching and switching hues less fiddly than with a smaller set such as the Prismacolor Premier 36 Count. The soft cores support layering, blending, and burnishing, while the fold-out tutorial offers a starting point for practice. The tradeoff is that the tutorial centers on recreating a unicorn illustration, so it may be less useful to buyers seeking broader technique guidance. Soft cores also call for care under heavy pressure. Choose this for an organized, expansive palette; skip it if you want a compact kit or firmer leads.
Pros:- 72 pencils provide a broad choice of colors
- Named, numbered, color-coded pencils are arranged in color families
- Soft cores support layering, blending, and burnishing
- Three-layer tin and fold-out tutorial are included
Cons:- Soft cores may need careful handling under pressure
- The tutorial focuses on recreating a unicorn illustration
- Three-layer presentation tin is less compact than a smaller set such as Prismacolor Premier 36 Count
Best for: Adult colorists and hobby artists who want a wide, clearly labeled palette arranged for quick selection.
Not ideal for: Artists who prefer a compact set, firm cores for forceful use, or a tutorial that covers a wider range of subjects.
- Quantity:72 colored pencils
- Core:Soft core
- Color organization:Pencils are named, numbered, color-coded, and arranged in color families
- Packaging:Three-layer presentation tin
- Included materials:Fold-out tutorial
- Techniques supported:Layering, blending, and burnishing
- Core behavior:Designed to resist crumbling and hold its point
Our verdict“Pick Castle Art’s 72-count set if organized color variety matters more than compact storage or a general-purpose tutorial.”
Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 12 Count
This 12-color Prismacolor set gives beginners and occasional colorists an entry to soft-core pencils without asking them to manage a large collection. The thick, saturated cores are suited to shading and smooth laydown, while the listed colors include basics such as True Blue, Crimson Red, Black, and White. Compared with the Prismacolor Premier 36 Count, this set takes up less room and gives buyers fewer pencils to choose from, but it also leaves fewer options for subtle transitions and close color matches. The Finenolo 36-Pack includes a sharpener and more colors; this Prismacolor set instead emphasizes its soft, thick core and saturated pigments. Its main tradeoff is palette size, so it fits focused practice better than projects that demand many distinct hues.
Pros:- Compact 12-pencil set is easy to store and manage
- Soft, thick cores suit shading
- Smooth, even color laydown with richly saturated pigments
- Leads are designed to resist cracking and chipping
Cons:- Twelve colors limit subtle transitions and precise color matching
- Fewer choices than the Prismacolor Premier 36 Count
- No sharpener is listed among the included materials
Best for: Beginners or occasional artists who want a small Prismacolor set for sketching, simple coloring, and shading practice.
Not ideal for: Colorists who need nuanced gradients, many distinct hues, or a broad palette for detailed projects.
- Count:12 pencils
- Core:Soft, thick
- Colors:True Blue, Grass Green, Apple Green, Canary Yellow, Orange, Crimson Red, Violet, Violet Blue, Sienna Brown, Dark Brown, Black, and White
- Color laydown:Smooth and even
- Pigments:Richly saturated
- Lead durability:Designed to resist cracking and chipping
- Uses:Drawing, sketching, and coloring
Our verdict“Choose this set for a compact introduction to Prismacolor soft cores, provided a limited palette suits your projects.”
Finenolo 36-Pack Colored Pencils with Soft Core and Sharpener
Finenolo pairs 36 soft-core pencils with an included sharpener, giving new colorists a ready-to-start set without a separate accessory purchase. The round, ribbed wooden pencils are described for coloring, sketching, and drawing, and the stated age recommendation is 12 and above. Compared with the Prismacolor Premier 12 Count, Finenolo supplies more pencils and a sharpener; the Prismacolor listing offers more detail about its saturated pigments and lead durability. That difference matters for buyers weighing known core characteristics against a basic starter bundle. Finenolo’s product information does not specify the individual colors or how well the cores hold up, so artists who need predictable shade selection or documented durability may prefer Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils, with its named and numbered colors. This set suits casual practice, with limited product detail as its tradeoff.
Pros:- 36 pencils provide a starter range of colors
- Soft cores are listed for coloring and drawing
- Sharpener is included
- Ribbed, round wooden pencils
Cons:- Individual colors and range are not specified
- Product details do not describe pencil durability
- Less color-selection information than Castle Art Supplies 72 Colored Pencils, whose pencils are named and numbered
Best for: New colorists aged 12 and above who want a 36-pencil set with a sharpener for casual drawing and coloring.
Not ideal for: Artists who need a documented color range, detailed pigment information, or stated lead durability before choosing a set.
- Quantity:36 pencils
- Color:Multicolor; individual colors not specified
- Core:Soft
- Material:Wood
- Grip:Ribbed
- Shape:Round
- Included accessory:Sharpener
- Recommended age:12 and above
Our verdict“Pick Finenolo for a straightforward starter set with a sharpener, but choose a better-documented palette if shade selection matters.”
Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 150 Assorted Colors
For artists who need many distinct shades close at hand, this 150-color Prismacolor set offers a far broader palette than the Prismacolor Premier 36 Count or the 72-pencil Castle Art Supplies set. Its soft, thick cores lay down saturated color smoothly and suit shading and shadow work, while the included case helps keep a large collection together for storage and transport. That range can reduce the need to mix or substitute colors, but it also means carrying and organizing many more pencils than a compact set requires. The product data does not name individual shades, so buyers who need to check specific colors before choosing may want a labeled palette instead. This is the Prismacolor pick for broad choice; the tradeoff is a larger collection to manage.
Pros:- 150 assorted pencils offer the broadest palette among these reviewed options
- Soft, thick cores support shading and shadows
- Smooth, even color laydown with richly saturated pigments
- Included case helps with storage and portability
Cons:- Large collection takes more space to organize and carry than the Prismacolor Premier 36 Count
- Individual shades are not specified in the provided product data
- A broad set may be more than a beginner needs
Best for: Artists and dedicated colorists who want a large Prismacolor palette for varied projects and prefer an included storage case.
Not ideal for: Beginners seeking a small, easy-to-manage selection or buyers who need a named shade list before choosing.
- Count:150 pencils
- Core:Soft, thick core
- Colors:Assorted
- Pigments:Lightfast and richly saturated
- Color laydown:Smooth and even
- Lead durability:Designed to resist cracking and chipping
- Case:Included; supports storage and portability
Our verdict“Choose the 150-color Prismacolor set if shade variety and an included case matter more than keeping your collection compact.”
How We Picked
I compared these sets using factors that change the drawing experience: core feel and mark control, the usefulness of the color range, set size, and practical extras such as a tin, sketchbook, or sharpener. I also looked at how clearly each set fits a buyer, from someone learning color mixing to an artist who wants a wide palette. A larger assortment can reduce the need to mix every shade, but it may add choices and pencils that a casual user rarely reaches for.
The ranking favors versatility and a clear role over sheer pencil count. The Prismacolor Premier 48-count set leads as a balanced soft-core option; Goldfaber ranks as a distinct firmer-core alternative, and the 150-count Prismacolor set serves buyers who prize range over compactness. Smaller Prismacolor sets rank as practical entry points or focused palettes, while broad KALOUR, PRINA, Castle Art, Soucolor, and Finenolo assortments make more sense when their particular mix of size and accessories matches the buyer’s priorities. Product details alone do not establish archival performance or lightfastness, so buyers making work for long-term display should check the maker’s current specifications for the exact set.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Colored Pencils
Choosing colored pencils gets easier when I match the set to the way I draw, rather than treating pencil count as a score. These factors can help narrow the options before you buy.
Choose Core Feel for Your Drawing Style
A softer core can lay down color readily and make broad coverage and blending feel more accessible. It can also wear down faster and may be less suited to tiny details if you press hard. A firmer core can offer more control for fine lines and repeated detail, though it may take more layering to build a saturated area. Neither feel is universally better: the paper, pressure, and technique all affect the result. If possible, compare a few pencils in person or check the manufacturer’s description before choosing a large set. Beginners may prefer a forgiving pencil, while detail-focused artists may want a firmer point.
Pick a Palette Size You Will Use
A compact set asks you to mix more colors, which can teach useful skills and keep the palette manageable. A large set gives you more ready-made shades for subjects with subtle color shifts, such as foliage, portraits, or layered landscapes. The common mistake is assuming more colors automatically mean better results; similar shades can sit unused if your subjects do not need them. Think about the subjects you draw and whether you enjoy mixing. If your work repeats a narrow palette, a focused set can be more useful than a large assortment. Choose a bigger range when shade selection is part of the pleasure or demands of your work.
Check Whether the Set Fits Your Paper and Technique
Pencil performance depends on the surface as much as the pencil. Smooth paper can support crisp lines, while a textured surface gives layers more tooth to grip, but may make even coverage take longer. If you like building many layers, check that your paper can accept them without becoming slick or rough. For coloring books, page thickness and bleed-through from other media may matter more than the number of pencils. Avoid pressing harder to compensate for a surface that is not working; that can flatten the paper texture and make later layers harder to add. Match the paper to your method before buying a second or larger set.
Decide How Much You Value Extras and Storage
A tin can keep pencils together and make a set easier to carry, while a sketchbook or sharpener can help someone starting from scratch. Extras are most useful when they address something you would otherwise need to buy or carry separately. They can be a distraction if the pencils themselves are the main priority or if you already own suitable tools. Check what the accessory actually includes and whether it matches your paper and drawing habits. For travel, consider how the pencils are arranged and whether you can quickly find a color. For a home setup, a simple case may be enough.
Look for Lightfastness Information for Finished Artwork
Lightfastness describes how well a pigment resists fading with exposure to light, which matters when artwork will be displayed or sold. A broad color set does not by itself tell you how well its colors will last. If longevity matters, look for lightfastness ratings or clear pigment information from the manufacturer for the exact pencils you plan to use. Do not assume every shade in a set performs equally, since ratings can vary by color. For practice pages or work kept in a portfolio, this may be a lower priority. For display pieces, it deserves attention before you choose a set.
Spend More for a Specific Benefit
Paying for more pencils makes sense when the added shades solve a real need, such as reducing repeated color mixing across a large body of work. A premium-feeling set may be worth choosing if its core behavior suits your technique and you use pencils regularly. For an occasional hobby, a smaller assortment can provide room to learn without leaving a large palette idle. Compare the practical contents of each set, including count, core type, and included tools, instead of treating the biggest package as the best fit. Also consider whether you can replace individual pencils when a favorite shade runs out. Your routine, more than the box size, should guide the choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I start with a small colored pencil set or a large one?
I’d start with a smaller set if you are still learning layering and color mixing or are unsure how often you will draw. A compact palette makes it easier to get familiar with each color and can cover many subjects when you mix. A large set is more practical if you already know you want many close shade variations or work on detailed subjects regularly. The Prismacolor 12-, 24-, and 36-count options offer increasing palette sizes within one product line, while the 150-count set is aimed at buyers who prioritize breadth. Choose based on how often you use subtle shade differences, not the number printed on the tin.
Are soft-core pencils better for blending than firmer pencils?
Soft cores are generally suited to laying down color and building blends with less effort, which is one reason the Prismacolor Premier sets stand out in this roundup. Firmer pencils can give more controlled marks and may suit fine detail or artists who prefer a more precise feel. Blending also depends on paper texture, pressure, and how many layers you apply. A soft pencil can feel harder to control for tiny areas, while a firm one may take more passes to fill a broad patch. Pick for the marks you make most often, then match your paper to that technique.
Is a 120- or 180-count set worth choosing over a smaller palette?
A high-count set is useful when you want many ready-made shades, enjoy choosing among close color variations, or work across subjects that call for broad palettes. It may save mixing time, but it can also mean more pencils to organize and more overlap between similar colors. If your work relies on a recurring group of hues, a smaller set may be easier to manage and learn. The KALOUR 180-count set also adds metallic pencils, which are a distinct feature to weigh alongside its size. Think through your subjects and storage before choosing a large assortment.
What should I check before using colored pencils for artwork I plan to display?
Look for lightfastness ratings or pigment information for the exact colors you plan to use. Do not infer fade resistance from a pencil’s softness, brand reputation, or the size of its assortment. Ratings can differ between colors in the same set, so check individual shades when the work needs to last. Paper and framing choices also affect how artwork is stored and displayed, but they do not replace pigment information. If the manufacturer does not provide the detail you need, treat long-term display performance as unconfirmed.
Should I choose a set with a sketchbook or sharpener included?
Included tools are helpful when you are setting up your first drawing kit or want fewer separate items to pack. The PRINA set pairs its large assortment with a sketchbook, while Finenolo includes a sharpener, so each adds a different kind of convenience. Those extras do not tell you whether the pencil core or palette suits your preferred style. If you already have a sketchbook or a sharpener you like, give more weight to the pencils themselves. Check the accessory details before buying, especially if you need a specific paper surface or sharpener design.
Conclusion
For a single versatile pick, I recommend the Prismacolor Premier 48-count as best overall: its soft-core format and middle-sized palette suit a range of drawing needs. Choose KALOUR Premium 120 Colors as a best value option when a broad assortment matters, and the Prismacolor Premier 150-count as best premium for buyers who want the widest shade selection in this lineup. Beginners can start with the Prismacolor Premier 24-count for a more manageable palette, while Faber-Castell Goldfaber 48-count is my pick for artists who prefer a firmer, controlled feel. For a specific extra, choose the KALOUR 180-count set if metallic pencils appeal, or the PRINA 120-color set if its sketchbook pairing suits your setup. Match the set to your core preference and how many colors you will actually use.
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