Colored pencils are a staple in every artist’s toolkit, but finding the right set that balances quality with affordability can be a challenge. Whether you’re a beginner building your first art kit or a seasoned illustrator looking to stretch your budget, choosing the right pencils without compromising on performance is key. Fortunately, the market today offers several impressive options that deliver vibrant color, solid blendability, and decent durability—all without breaking the bank.
In this guide, we’ll explore five of the best budget-friendly colored pencils that meet the needs of hobbyists, students, and even professional artists who want a reliable, cost-effective solution. Each selection is informed by hands-on testing, user reviews, and manufacturing insights to ensure you’re making a smart, informed purchase.
Why Budget Doesn’t Mean Low Quality
There’s a common misconception that inexpensive art supplies are inherently inferior. While that can be true in some cases, the colored pencil market has evolved significantly. Thanks to improvements in manufacturing processes and global supply chains, several brands now offer affordable pencils that rival mid-tier options in pigment quality and usability.
Factors like core composition, binder quality, and barrel design all play a role in performance. Some budget pencils use synthetic wax or oil binders that mimic the qualities of more expensive pencils, while others leverage efficient mass production to reduce cost without sacrificing consistency.
Comparison Table: Top 5 Affordable Colored Pencils
| Brand | Core Type | Set Sizes | Best For | Approx. Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arteza Expert | Wax-based | 48, 72, 120 | Layering & Blending | $20–$30 |
| Kalour Soft Core | Wax-based | 72, 120, 180 | Color Variety | $25–$30 |
| Faber-Castell Classic | Oil-based | 12, 24, 48 | Sketching & Detailing | $10–$20 |
| Crayola Colored Pencils | Wax-based | 12, 24, 50 | Beginner Use | $5–$15 |
| Prismacolor Scholar | Wax-based | 12, 24, 60 | Student Projects | $15–$25 |
1. Arteza Expert Colored Pencils: Premium Feel at a Mid-Range Price
Arteza has quickly earned a reputation among artists for offering high-quality tools at accessible prices. Their Expert line of colored pencils is a standout in the budget category, delivering a smooth, wax-based core that glides effortlessly on paper. With excellent blendability and rich pigmentation, these pencils are ideal for layering techniques, gradients, and detailed illustrations.
According to user feedback from a Reddit discussion on affordable colored pencils, Arteza is frequently praised for its balance of quality and cost. Users noted that the pencils hold their point well and don’t crumble under pressure—a common issue with cheaper alternatives.
Arteza’s manufacturing process emphasizes core uniformity and color saturation, which helps maintain consistency across large sets. Their 120-pencil set, for example, offers a wide spectrum of shades, making it great for artists who need diversity without investing in premium brands like Prismacolor Premier.
2. Kalour Soft Core: Vibrant Variety Without the Price Tag
Kalour is a lesser-known brand that’s gained traction through word-of-mouth and community recommendations. Their soft core colored pencils are wax-based and come in sets as large as 180, making them a favorite among colorists who crave variety. Despite the low price, Kalour pencils offer surprisingly vivid colors and decent blendability.
In the same Reddit thread mentioned earlier, several users highlighted Kalour as a hidden gem. While the pencils may not be as smooth as Arteza, they perform exceptionally well for the price, especially in coloring books and mixed-media projects.
Kalour’s manufacturing strategy focuses on volume efficiency. By offering large sets at a low cost, they cater to artists who prioritize color range over premium feel. Their pencils are also encased in durable wood barrels, which help reduce breakage during sharpening—a common flaw in ultra-cheap sets.
3. Faber-Castell Classic: German Engineering Meets Affordability
Faber-Castell is a trusted name in the art supply world, and their Classic line offers a cost-effective entry into their high-quality product ecosystem. These oil-based pencils are harder than most wax-based options, making them ideal for fine lines and detail work. The colors are bright and consistent, and the cores are centered and well-bonded, reducing the risk of breakage.
According to The Art Gear Guide, the Faber-Castell Classic line is a top contender for students and beginners due to its reliability and price point. The pencils are also eco-friendly, made from sustainably sourced wood, which adds value for environmentally conscious buyers.
While they don’t offer the buttery blendability of wax-based alternatives, their durability and precision make them a smart choice for sketching, technical drawing, and architectural rendering.
4. Crayola Colored Pencils: A Reliable Starter Option
Crayola may be synonymous with childhood art projects, but their colored pencils offer more than just nostalgia. Designed primarily for students and beginners, these wax-based pencils are surprisingly capable for basic coloring and shading tasks. They’re not as pigmented or blendable as other options on this list, but they’re incredibly affordable and widely available.
One of Crayola’s strengths lies in its consistent manufacturing. The cores are centered and bonded well, which minimizes internal breakage. Their pencils also sharpen easily and don’t splinter, making them suitable for younger artists or classrooms.
While professionals may find them limiting, Crayola pencils are a great starting point for those exploring color theory or building foundational skills without a large investment.
5. Prismacolor Scholar: Entry-Level Performance with a Recognized Name
Prismacolor is best known for its Premier line, favored by professional illustrators and designers. However, the Scholar series offers a more affordable alternative that retains many of the brand’s signature qualities. These wax-based pencils are softer than Crayola or Faber-Castell Classic, allowing for better blending and layering.
Priced between $15 and $25 for mid-size sets, Prismacolor Scholar pencils are ideal for students and hobbyists who want a taste of premium performance without the premium price. The core is slightly harder than the Premier line, which helps reduce breakage but also limits the creaminess some artists prefer.
As noted in the comprehensive review from Coloring Bliss, the Scholar series holds its own in terms of color payoff and usability, particularly for practice work and school projects.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Budget Colored Pencils
Even the best pencils can fall short without the right techniques. Here are a few tips to elevate your results when working with budget-friendly options:
- Use quality paper: Toothy or textured paper can enhance pigment adhesion and allow for better layering.
- Layer gradually: Apply color in light layers, building up slowly to avoid wax bloom or muddy colors.
- Blend smart: Use blending tools like tortillons, colorless blenders, or even solvents (for wax-based pencils) to smooth transitions.
- Sharpen carefully: Use a handheld sharpener with a sharp, clean blade to avoid core breakage.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Set for Your Needs
When selecting the best budget-friendly colored pencils, consider how you plan to use them. If you’re a colorist looking for variety, Kalour’s large sets offer unbeatable value. If you’re focused on precision and durability, Faber-Castell Classic is a solid pick. For those who want a well-rounded option with rich color and blendability, Arteza Expert delivers exceptional performance for the cost.
Ultimately, the best pencil is the one that fits your workflow, artistic goals, and budget. With the options outlined above, you don’t have to compromise quality for affordability. Each brand brings something unique to the table, and with a bit of experimentation, you’ll find the set that helps your creativity shine.