The best drawing pencils overall in this lineup are the Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencil Set for a broad graphite range and the Prismacolor Premier Graphite Drawing Pencil Set for an all-in-one kit with erasers and sharpeners. For beginners who want varied hardness grades in one set, the KALOUR 18-Piece Sketch Pencil Set is a flexible starting point. The main choice is between graphite control, colored-pencil range, and ready-to-use accessories; a large set is not automatically a better fit. Read on for the full breakdown of which drawing pencils suit different styles, skill levels, and workspace needs.
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Key Takeaways
- Faber-Castell 9000 is the graphite specialist in this group, spanning 8B to 2H for artists who want both dark shading and lighter construction lines.
- Prismacolor Premier Graphite 18-Piece adds erasers and sharpeners, making it a more self-contained pick than pencil-only graphite sets.
- Colored-pencil sets serve a different purpose from graphite kits: Prismacolor’s 150-color set favors a wide palette, while the 48-color version takes up less space and offers a more focused selection.
- Mechanical pencils and twist-up colored pencils reduce sharpening interruptions, but they do not replace the broader grade or color ranges available in traditional wood-cased sets.
- Large mixed-art kits prioritize breadth over a focused pencil selection; buyers who mainly draw may get more relevant choices from dedicated graphite or colored-pencil sets.
| Nicpro 6-Piece Mechanical Pencil Set with 0.5, 0.7, 0.9, and 2 mm Leads |  | Best for Drafting and Line Control | Brand: Nicpro | Model: MG099 | Pencil count: 6 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KALOUR 18-Piece Sketch Pencil Set |  | Best for Graphite Grade Variety | Brand: KALOUR | Set size: 18 pieces | Graphite pencils: 14 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Amazon Basics Pre-Sharpened #2 HB Wood-Cased Pencils with Erasers, 150 Count |  | Best for High-Volume Everyday Sketching | Count: 150 pencils | Lead: #2 HB medium-soft | Shape: Hexagonal | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| PandaFly 22-Piece Drawing Sketching Pencil Set, Graphite (12B-2H) |  | Best Mixed-Media Graphite Kit | Set size: 22 pieces | Graphite hardness: 2H, HB, 2B, 4B, 6B, 8B, 10B, 12B | Grip and body shape: Hexagonal | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 150 Assorted Colors |  | Best for Color Layering and Blending | Brand: Prismacolor | Model number: 1800059 | Count: 150 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Faber-Castell Graphite Sketch Pencil Set, 6 Pencils |  | Best Compact Graphite Range | Brand: Faber-Castell | Quantity: 6 pencils | Pencil grades: 2H, HB, B, 2B, 4B, 6B | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, Soft Core, Assorted Colors, 48 Count |  | Best for Blending and Saturated Color | Form: Colored pencil | Count: 48 | Color: Assorted | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencil Set |  | Best Budget-Friendly Color Variety | Brand: Soucolor | Count: 72 colored pencils | Core: Soft, break-resistant | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KALOUR 72-Color Soft Core Colored Pencil Set |  | Best Labeled Color Set for Young Artists | Brand: KALOUR | Count: 72 colored pencils | Core: Soft, break-resistant | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| HNIHUY Sketch Drawing Pencils Set, 17 Pieces |  | Best All-in-One Sketching Kit | Pencil count: 12 | Pencil hardness: 4H to 8B | Included components: 12 graphite pencils, 2 erasers, 1 metal sharpener, 2 charcoal sticks | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Caliart 176-Piece Art Supplies Sketching Kit with 100-Sheet 3-Color Sketchbook |  | Best for Mixed-Media Exploration | Total pieces: 176 | Pencils: 12 graphite, 12 colored, 12 watercolor, 12 charcoal, 3 white charcoal, and 12 metallic | Graphite grades: 2H, 3H, 4H, 5H, HB, B, 2B, 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B, 8B | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Mr. Pen Graphite Sketch Pencils, 14 Pack |  | Best for the Widest Graphite Range | Brand: Mr. Pen | Model: PS14 | Pencil count: 14 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencil Set – 8B to 2H, 12 pcs |  | Best for Consistent Graphite Marks | Pencil count: 12 | Hardness range: 8B to 2H | Form: Graphite pencil | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Twistables Colored Pencil Set, 50 Count |  | Best for Young, Low-Mess Color Drawing | Count: 50 colored pencils | Form: Twist-up colored pencil | Colors: Multicolor | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prismacolor Premier Graphite Drawing Pencil Set with Erasers and Sharpeners, 18-Piece |  | Best for Flexible Graphite Techniques | Brand: Prismacolor | Model: 24261 | Piece count: 18 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Nicpro 6-Piece Mechanical Pencil Set with 0.5, 0.7, 0.9, and 2 mm Leads
I’d choose the Nicpro set when drawing calls for consistent, controlled lines rather than the broad tonal range of traditional sketch pencils. Its six metal mechanical pencils cover 0.5, 0.7, 0.9, and 2 mm leads, so a buyer can switch between fine details and heavier marks without sharpening every pencil. Textured rubber and knurled metal grips offer different handling preferences, and the included refills, erasers, sharpeners, and case make it a more self-contained drafting option than the KALOUR 18-Piece Sketch Pencil Set. The tradeoff is that mechanical leads don’t provide the same simple, continuous range of broad shading as a set of wood-cased graphite grades. The 2 mm pencil also needs sharpening, and the many small accessories can be easy to misplace.
Pros:- Four lead diameters let users move between fine details and heavier marks.
- Metal bodies pair with textured rubber or knurled grips.
- Includes lead refills in multiple sizes and hardnesses, plus erasers and sharpeners.
- More suited to controlled drafting lines than the wood-cased grades in the KALOUR sketch set.
Cons:- The 2 mm lead requires sharpening rather than advancing like the finer mechanical leads.
- Small refills and eraser components can be easy to lose.
- Less suited to broad, varied graphite shading than a conventional graded sketch-pencil set.
Best for: Drafting students and detail-focused sketchers who want several line widths, mechanical-pencil control, and spare leads in one kit.
Not ideal for: Artists whose priority is expressive tonal shading across many graphite grades, or anyone who wants a pencil set with no small accessories to keep track of.
- Brand:Nicpro
- Model:MG099
- Pencil count:6
- Lead sizes:0.5 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.9 mm, 2 mm
- Lead hardness:2B, HB, 2H
- Body material:Metal
- Grip types:Textured rubber and knurled metal
- Included components:Lead refills, erasers, cap eraser refills, sharpeners, pencil case
Our verdict“Choose the Nicpro set for drafting and precise sketch lines across several lead widths, not for the widest range of traditional shading grades.”
KALOUR 18-Piece Sketch Pencil Set
For buyers learning how graphite hardness changes a drawing, the KALOUR 18-piece set offers a broader traditional grade spread than the mechanical leads in the Nicpro set. Its 14 graphite pencils are listed as spanning 5H to 14B in the title, while the description gives an upper limit of 12B; that mismatch makes the darkest grade unclear. The included kneaded and vinyl erasers, sharpener, and blending stump give beginners tools to experiment with lifting and softening marks without assembling a separate kit. Compared with the PandaFly 22-Piece Drawing Sketching Pencil Set, KALOUR is more focused on graphite practice than mixing in charcoal. The compromise is the uncertain hardness range and a modest accessory selection; buyers seeking a clearly specified graphite-and-charcoal bundle may prefer PandaFly.
Pros:- Fourteen graphite pencils span hard grades through very soft grades.
- Kneaded and vinyl erasers support different correction and lifting techniques.
- A blending stump and double-hole sharpener add useful basics for sketch practice.
- More graphite-focused than the charcoal-inclusive PandaFly kit.
Cons:- The stated softest grade conflicts: the title says 14B, while the description says 12B.
- Does not include charcoal pencils or charcoal sticks for mixed-media drawing.
Best for: New sketchers and graphite artists who want to compare hard and soft pencil grades, with basic erasing and blending tools included.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need a verified darkest grade or want charcoal pencils and sticks alongside graphite.
- Brand:KALOUR
- Set size:18 pieces
- Graphite pencils:14
- Hardness range:5H to 14B in title; 5H to 12B in description
- Included accessories:Vinyl eraser, kneaded eraser, double-hole sharpener, paper blending stump
- Item weight:0.16 kg
- Color:Multicolor
- Recommended uses:Drawing, sketching, artistic projects
Our verdict“Pick KALOUR for exploring graphite grades and basic blending, but skip it if an exact darkest-pencil grade matters to your work.”
Amazon Basics Pre-Sharpened #2 HB Wood-Cased Pencils with Erasers, 150 Count
The 150-count Amazon Basics set is the practical pick for classrooms, studios, or households where drawing pencils get used up, shared, or misplaced. Its pre-sharpened #2 HB graphite is a familiar middle grade for outlines, notes, and uncomplicated sketching, while the attached latex-free eraser keeps each pencil ready for quick corrections. Compared with the KALOUR 18-Piece Sketch Pencil Set, this set trades grade variety and blending tools for a large, consistent supply; it won’t cover the same range of light construction lines and deep shading. The hexagonal yellow pencils are straightforward to identify and hold, but buyers should not expect specialty drawing features or a dedicated range of hardnesses. I’d choose it for dependable everyday use, not for a project that needs nuanced graphite values.
Pros:- Large 150-pencil supply suits classrooms and shared art spaces.
- Pre-sharpened pencils are ready to use out of the box.
- #2 HB lead works for general outlines, sketching, and writing.
- Each pencil has a latex-free eraser.
Cons:- A single HB grade offers less control over tone than the KALOUR graded sketch set.
- No blending stump, sharpener, or other drawing accessories are listed.
Best for: Teachers, students, and shared-workspace users who need a large supply of ready-to-use pencils for basic drawing and sketching.
Not ideal for: Artists building tonal studies who need multiple graphite hardnesses, blending accessories, or softer grades for dark shading.
- Count:150 pencils
- Lead:#2 HB medium-soft
- Shape:Hexagonal
- Color:Yellow
- Eraser:Latex-free
- Dimensions:7.4 x 0.3 x 0.3 inches
- Item weight:5.13 g
- Model number:PHB-150
Our verdict“Choose this bulk set for basic, repeat-use sketching; choose a graded set instead when shading range matters more than quantity.”
PandaFly 22-Piece Drawing Sketching Pencil Set, Graphite (12B-2H)
The PandaFly 22-piece set suits artists who want graphite shading tools and charcoal elements in the same kit. Its graphite grades run from 2H to 12B, while black and white charcoal pencils, charcoal sticks, blending stumps, erasers, and a sharpener add options beyond a standard graphite set. Compared with the KALOUR 18-Piece Sketch Pencil Set, PandaFly is the more varied choice for combining dark graphite, charcoal, and blending; KALOUR is the simpler option for practicing graphite grades alone. The hexagonal pencils offer a familiar grip, but this kit has no dedicated storage case, so loose pieces may be inconvenient to carry. Its listed specifications also include broad descriptors such as water resistance and a line-size range, which offer less practical guidance than the stated pencil grades and included tools.
Pros:- Graphite hardness range covers 2H through 12B for light marks and dark shading.
- Includes black and white charcoal pencils plus charcoal sticks.
- Blending stumps, erasers, and a sharpener support a range of sketching techniques.
- Hexagonal pencil shape provides a secure, familiar grip.
Cons:- No dedicated case is listed, making loose pieces harder to organize and transport.
- The charcoal and mixed-media components may be unnecessary for graphite-only drawing.
Best for: Sketch artists who want to experiment with graphite, black and white charcoal, and blending techniques without buying each tool separately.
Not ideal for: Traveling artists who need organized storage, or graphite-only users who would rather avoid charcoal components.
- Set size:22 pieces
- Graphite hardness:2H, HB, 2B, 4B, 6B, 8B, 10B, 12B
- Grip and body shape:Hexagonal
- Additional drawing media:Black and white charcoal pencils, charcoal sticks
- Other included tools:Blending stumps, erasers, sharpener
- Hand orientation:Ambidextrous
- Line size:1.0–1.9 mm
- Water resistance level:Water resistant
Our verdict“Choose PandaFly for a portable-at-home mix of graphite and charcoal tools, but look elsewhere if you need a case or only draw in graphite.”
Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 150 Assorted Colors
Unlike the graphite-focused options in this roundup, the Prismacolor Premier 150-count set is for drawing with color: its soft cores and broad palette support layering, shading, and blending across colored-pencil work. Compared with the Prismacolor Premier Soft Core 48-count set in the wider lineup, this version offers many more colors, which can reduce the need to mix every intermediate hue. That range comes with a practical cost in storage weight: 2.9 pounds, and a large palette may be more than a beginner needs for a small selection of projects. The wood-cased pencils have durable leads, but soft cores suit rich, blendable marks better than the crisp, controlled lines of the Nicpro mechanical pencils. Choose this for color-rich artwork, not monochrome graphite studies.
Pros:- 150 assorted colors give artists a broad palette for detailed work.
- Soft cores support smooth layering, shading, and blending.
- Rich pigments suit color-focused drawing more than the monochrome graphite sets.
- Includes a storage case for keeping the large assortment together.
Cons:- At 2.9 pounds, the set is relatively heavy to carry.
- The soft-core format is less suited to crisp mechanical-pencil linework.
- A 150-color assortment may be excessive for artists who mainly use graphite or a small color palette.
Best for: Colored-pencil artists and detail-oriented hobbyists who want a large palette for layered, blended illustrations.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking graphite drawing pencils, a lightweight travel kit, or a compact set with only a few core colors.
- Brand:Prismacolor
- Model number:1800059
- Count:150
- Core type:Soft core
- Colors:Assorted
- Lead size:2 mm and above
- Material:Wood
- Weight:2.9 pounds
- Dimensions:16.81 x 1.61 x 0.5 inches
Our verdict“Choose this Prismacolor set for a wide range of blendable colors, not for graphite sketching or a lightweight pencil kit.”
Faber-Castell Graphite Sketch Pencil Set, 6 Pencils
I’d pick this set for a focused graphite kit that covers both light construction lines and darker shading without adding specialist extras. Its six grades, from 2H to 6B, give more drawing range than a basic HB pack, while the hexagonal barrels are less prone to rolling off a desk. Compared with the Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencil Set, this is the smaller, simpler choice: it has fewer grades, but its progression covers everyday sketching needs in a compact set. The break-resistant leads are glued along the pencil length, which can reduce breakage during sharpening and use. The tradeoff is limited nuance at the very hard and very soft ends, and there are no erasers or sharpener in the set. I’d choose it for graphite-first drawing, not for an all-in-one studio kit.
Pros:- Six grades span 2H through 6B for line work and shading.
- Break-resistant leads are glued along the pencil length.
- Hexagonal barrels help keep pencils from rolling.
- Made with FSC-certified reforested wood.
Cons:- Six grades offer less tonal choice than the 12-pencil Faber-Castell 9000 set.
- No eraser, sharpener, or storage case is specified.
- The set does not include especially soft grades beyond 6B.
Best for: Sketchers who want a compact set of core graphite grades for outlines, tonal studies, and everyday drawing.
Not ideal for: Artists who need a broad hardness range, included accessories, or colored pencils alongside graphite.
- Brand:Faber-Castell
- Quantity:6 pencils
- Pencil grades:2H, HB, B, 2B, 4B, 6B
- Shape:Hexagonal
- Lead:Break-resistant graphite and clay
- Wood source:FSC-certified reforested wood
- Dimensions:0.5 x 2.25 x 7.38 inches
Our verdict“Choose this set for dependable, compact graphite coverage; pick the Faber-Castell 9000 set if you need more grades.”
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, Soft Core, Assorted Colors, 48 Count
For drawings where color blending matters more than graphite control, I’d favor these 48 soft-core pencils over the graphite-focused Faber-Castell six-pack. Their thick, smooth cores lay down saturated color and support layering, making them a better fit for shaded illustrations and colored-pencil studies than for fine technical line work. Compared with the Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencil Set, Prismacolor offers fewer hues but emphasizes a soft, blendable feel and lightfast pigments. That smaller selection asks you to mix and layer more often, while the soft cores can wear down faster than harder pencils. A tin case keeps the assortment together for storage and transport, though the supplied description notes that the tin artwork can vary. This is a color-drawing choice, not a substitute for a graded graphite set.
Pros:- Soft, thick cores lay down color smoothly for blending and shading.
- Lightfast pigments support color intended to retain its appearance.
- 48 assorted colors offer a broad palette for illustration.
- Tin case keeps pencils stored and portable.
Cons:- The 48-color selection is smaller than the Soucolor and KALOUR 72-color sets.
- Soft cores can use up more quickly than harder colored-pencil leads.
- A colored-pencil set cannot provide the graphite range needed for monochrome drawing.
Best for: Colored-pencil artists who prioritize smooth blending, strong pigment, and a portable, organized set over maximum color count.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking graphite grades, very fine hard-pencil lines, or the widest hue selection in this roundup.
- Form:Colored pencil
- Count:48
- Color:Assorted
- Core:Soft, thick core
- Material:Wood
- Case:Tin
- Made in:USA
- Tin dimensions:9.75 x 8.125 x 0.875 inches
Our verdict“Choose Prismacolor for blendable, saturated color in a tin; opt for a 72-color set if hue variety matters more.”
Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencil Set
I’d put the Soucolor set on the shortlist for students and casual colorists who want 72 labeled shades for projects that move between drawing, schoolwork, and adult coloring. Pre-sharpened points mean the set is ready to use, while named and numbered pencils make it easier to return to a shade or find a close match. Compared with the Prismacolor Premier 48-count set, Soucolor supplies more colors, but the product details place less emphasis on lightfastness and premium blending performance. Its soft, richly pigmented cores are described as blendable, yet they are not water resistant, so this is not a choice for work that may get wet. No carrying case details are provided, making it less convenient to transport than Prismacolor’s tin-packed set. I’d choose it for color range and general-purpose use, not archival or water-based work.
Pros:- 72 colors provide more shade options than the Prismacolor 48-count set.
- Pencils come pre-sharpened for immediate use.
- Color names and numbers help with identification and repeat selections.
- Soft cores are described as suitable for blending and shading.
Cons:- Pencils are not water resistant.
- No carrying case details are provided.
- The product data does not specify lightfastness.
Best for: Students and hobby artists who want many identifiable colors for dry drawing, coloring pages, and school projects.
Not ideal for: Artists who need water-resistant marks, a specified protective case, or documented lightfast pigments for long-term work.
- Brand:Soucolor
- Count:72 colored pencils
- Core:Soft, break-resistant
- Lead size:3 mm
- Point:Pre-sharpened
- Material:Wood
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
- Safety:Non-toxic; EN71-3 safety certificate
Our verdict“Choose Soucolor for a broad, labeled dry-color palette, but look elsewhere for a protective case or water-resistant media.”
KALOUR 72-Color Soft Core Colored Pencil Set
The KALOUR set is aimed at young artists and households that want a large colored-pencil palette with straightforward color identification. Its 72 numbered and named shades make it easier to choose and repeat colors than in an unlabeled assortment, and the basswood bodies are described as easy to sharpen. Compared with the Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencil Set, KALOUR gives a clearer age recommendation and lists ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3 certifications; both sets offer soft cores and the same number of colors. Those soft cores support blending and layering, though their softness can make them more vulnerable to breaking despite the break-resistant claim. The set is listed for ages five and up, so it is not suited to younger children. I’d select it for supervised family art and color work, rather than for adult artists seeking graphite grades or a documented case.
Pros:- 72 labeled colors make shades easier to identify and reuse.
- Soft, highly pigmented cores support blending and layering.
- Basswood bodies are described as easy to sharpen.
- Listed as non-toxic with ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3 certifications.
Cons:- Recommended for ages five and up, not younger children.
- Soft cores may break more readily during sharpening or heavy pressure.
- The product data does not specify a storage case or lightfastness.
Best for: Families and young artists aged five and up who want a labeled color assortment for drawing, coloring, and layering.
Not ideal for: Children under five, graphite-only sketchers, or artists who need a specified case and professional lightfastness information.
- Brand:KALOUR
- Count:72 colored pencils
- Core:Soft, break-resistant
- Material:Basswood
- Features:Blendable, pre-sharpened, non-toxic
- Certifications:ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3
- Recommended age:5 and up
- Dimensions:11 x 7.4 x 0.62 inches
Our verdict“Choose KALOUR for a clearly labeled, age-specified color set; skip it if you need graphite pencils or a documented carrying case.”
HNIHUY Sketch Drawing Pencils Set, 17 Pieces
This kit makes the most sense for someone starting graphite drawing who would rather have core tools together than assemble them separately. Alongside 12 graphite grades from 4H to 8B, it includes two erasers, a metal sharpener, and two charcoal sticks, covering both crisp detail and broad, dark marks. Compared with the Faber-Castell Graphite Sketch Pencil Set, HNIHUY offers a wider hardness range and more included tools, but the six-pencil Faber-Castell set is the more compact, focused option. The protective metal case helps keep the assortment organized, though this larger bundle may include tools a minimalist sketcher will not use. Its stated lead size is 2 mm and above, but no specific pencil brand or wood source is given. I’d favor it for a starter drawing kit, not for buyers seeking a named graphite-pencil line or colored pencils.
Pros:- 12 graphite grades from 4H to 8B cover detail and tonal shading.
- Includes two erasers, a metal sharpener, and two charcoal sticks.
- Metal case protects and organizes the set.
- Hexagonal barrels and ambidextrous design suit either hand.
Cons:- The larger bundle may duplicate tools an established artist already owns.
- No pencil brand or wood source is specified in the product data.
- Does not include colored pencils for color drawing.
Best for: New sketchers who want a range of graphite grades, basic correction tools, a sharpener, and charcoal in one organized kit.
Not ideal for: Artists who already own accessories, want colored pencils, or prefer a compact set from a specified pencil maker.
- Pencil count:12
- Pencil hardness:4H to 8B
- Included components:12 graphite pencils, 2 erasers, 1 metal sharpener, 2 charcoal sticks
- Case:Metal gift case
- Lead size:2 mm and above
- Body shape:Hexagonal
- Grip type:Smooth
- Hand orientation:Ambidextrous
Our verdict“Choose HNIHUY for a broad, accessory-rich starter kit; pick Faber-Castell’s six-pencil set for a simpler graphite-only selection.”
Caliart 176-Piece Art Supplies Sketching Kit with 100-Sheet 3-Color Sketchbook
The Caliart kit suits artists who want graphite, charcoal, colored, watercolor, and metallic pencils in one organized package. Its 12 graphite grades run from 2H to 8B, covering light construction lines through dark shading, while the included tools and white, tan, and black sketchbook paper encourage experiments beyond standard graphite work. Compared with the focused Mr. Pen 14-pack, this offers far more materials and surfaces, but that variety also means more pieces to sort through and less appeal for someone who only needs graphite. The 6 x 9-inch, 100 GSM sketchbook is portable, though its paper is not water resistant. I’d choose this for variety and portability, not for a streamlined pencil set or a beginner who may find 176 pieces excessive.
Pros:- Includes six types of pencils, including 12 graphite grades from 2H to 8B
- Three paper colors give artists options for toned-paper and dark-paper studies
- Portable case and included blending and sharpening tools keep supplies together
Cons:- The many components can overwhelm someone who only needs core drawing pencils
- Sketchbook paper is not water resistant, limiting wet-media use
- The 100 GSM paper may not suit heavy layering or wet techniques
Best for: Beginners or hobby artists who want to try graphite, charcoal, colored media, and mixed-paper drawing without assembling supplies separately.
Not ideal for: Artists focused on graphite alone, or new drawers who would rather learn with a small, uncluttered set.
- Total pieces:176
- Pencils:12 graphite, 12 colored, 12 watercolor, 12 charcoal, 3 white charcoal, and 12 metallic
- Graphite grades:2H, 3H, 4H, 5H, HB, B, 2B, 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B, 8B
- Sketchbook:100 sheets: 72 white, 14 tan, and 14 black
- Sketchbook size:6 x 9 inches
- Paper weight:100 GSM
- Additional tools:Blending stumps, water brush pen, sandpaper block, pencil extender, paint brush, sharpener, vinyl eraser, and kneaded eraser
- Case:Portable carrying case
Our verdict“Choose the Caliart kit if you want a portable, broad introduction to pencil and mixed-media drawing; pick a graphite-only set for a more focused setup.”
Mr. Pen Graphite Sketch Pencils, 14 Pack
The Mr. Pen set is a straightforward choice for artists who want 14 graphite grades in one set, including the notably hard 6H and soft 10B ends. That range supports pale guidelines, hatching, and dark shading without adding colored or mixed-media supplies you may not use. Compared with the Faber-Castell 9000 set, it extends further at both ends of the hardness scale, although the product information does not describe the same break-resistant bonding claim. The leads are designed to wear evenly and sharpen easily, a practical benefit for maintaining predictable marks. Its limitation is equally clear: these are graphite pencils only, with no sketchbook, eraser, or blending tools included. I’d pick it over the Caliart kit for a focused graphite drawer, but not for artists seeking a ready-to-use assortment of media.
Pros:- 14 graphite grades span 6H through 10B
- Includes both hard grades for light marks and soft grades for dark shading
- Leads are designed for even wear and easy sharpening
- Useful for drawing, sketching, writing, shading, and hatching
Cons:- Graphite-only assortment lacks colored or mixed-media options
- No sketchbook, eraser, or blending tools are listed
- The product description provides less information about lead construction than some alternatives
Best for: Graphite artists who want a broad hardness range, especially drawers who use very light construction marks and very dark shading.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking colored media, paper, or drawing accessories in the same package.
- Brand:Mr. Pen
- Model:PS14
- Pencil count:14
- Lead grades:6H, 5H, 4H, 3H, 2H, HB, B, 2B, 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B, 8B, 10B
- Material:Graphite
- Color:Black and silver
- Item weight:0.16 kg
- Recommended uses:Drawing, sketching, and writing
Our verdict“Choose Mr. Pen if hardness-range breadth matters more than accessories or mixed-media variety.”
Faber-Castell 9000 Graphite Sketch Pencil Set – 8B to 2H, 12 pcs
Faber-Castell’s 9000 set earns its place for artists who value smooth, consistent graphite lines across a useful 8B-to-2H range. Its SV bonding is designed to help resist breakage, which can matter when sharpening or applying pressure for darker shading. Compared with the Mr. Pen 14-pack, this set has fewer grades and stops at 8B rather than reaching 10B, but it offers a stated construction feature aimed at keeping the lead intact. The range still covers detail, sketching, and tonal work, while the water-based barrel paint adds a durable finish. There is no eraser, and the listed package dimensions are unusually large relative to a 12-pencil set. I’d favor it for a dependable graphite selection, not for buyers who need accessories or the broadest grade span.
Pros:- 12 pencils span soft 8B to hard 2H
- SV bonding is designed to reduce lead breakage
- Finely ground leads are described as smooth and non-scratchy
- Water-based barrel coating adds a durable finish
Cons:- No eraser is included
- The range is narrower than the Mr. Pen 14-pack, which reaches 10B and 6H
- Listed package dimensions are large relative to the pencil set
Best for: Students and regular sketchers who want a dependable, versatile graphite range for line work and shading.
Not ideal for: Artists who need an included eraser, want grades beyond 8B, or prefer a compact presentation package.
- Pencil count:12
- Hardness range:8B to 2H
- Form:Graphite pencil
- Material:Wood
- Lead bonding:SV bonding method
- Hand orientation:Ambidextrous
- Item weight:0.14 kg
- Barrel coating:Eco-friendly water-based paint
Our verdict“Pick the Faber-Castell 9000 set for a smooth, breakage-conscious graphite range, unless you need more extreme grades or included accessories.”
Crayola Twistables Colored Pencil Set, 50 Count
Crayola Twistables fill a different role from graphite-focused picks such as the Faber-Castell 9000: these are 50 twist-up colored pencils made for coloring, crafts, and casual drawing rather than tonal graphite studies. The no-sharpening design helps children keep drawing without stopping to find a sharpener, while the twist-down mechanism protects the color cores between uses. Their plastic barrels also suit a portable, kid-friendly supply kit. That convenience comes with a narrower artistic purpose: they do not provide graphite grades for value studies, and the product details do not specify the individual colors or a blending range. Recommended for ages five and up and described as non-toxic, they make the most sense for younger artists. I would skip them for realistic pencil drawing that depends on graphite hardness or fine tonal control.
Pros:- 50 multicolored pencils support a range of coloring and craft projects
- Twist-up cores need no sharpening or peeling
- Tips can be twisted down for protection during storage or travel
- Non-toxic and recommended for children ages five and up
Cons:- Colored-pencil format does not provide graphite grades for tonal drawing
- Product details do not list individual colors or specific blending capabilities
- Plastic twist-up design differs from traditional wood-cased drawing pencils
Best for: Children ages five and up who want a simple, portable set for coloring, crafts, and casual colored-pencil drawing.
Not ideal for: Graphite artists or older drawers seeking graded leads, detailed tonal control, or a dedicated sketching set.
- Count:50 colored pencils
- Form:Twist-up colored pencil
- Colors:Multicolor
- Material:Plastic
- Sharpening:No sharpening or peeling required
- Core protection:Twist-down design helps protect the tips
- Age recommendation:5 and up
- Recommended uses:Coloring, drawing, and crafts
Our verdict“Choose Crayola Twistables for convenient, child-friendly color work, not for graphite sketching or fine tonal studies.”
Prismacolor Premier Graphite Drawing Pencil Set with Erasers and Sharpeners, 18-Piece
Prismacolor’s 18-piece set is the most technique-focused option here: alongside graded graphite pencils, it includes woodless and water-soluble graphite, plus a sharpener, sanding board, and two erasers. That combination gives artists more ways to adjust marks and clean up than the Mr. Pen 14-pack, which contains graphite pencils alone. Its grades span 6H to 8B, providing a substantial range for light details and deep shading, while the included tools make the set more self-contained. The tradeoff is a less traditional presentation: the pencils are turquoise and unpainted rather than finished like classic wood-cased pencils, which some buyers may not prefer. This is a stronger fit for artists exploring graphite effects than for someone who wants a simple, conventional pencil assortment.
Pros:- 14 lead values cover a stated range from 6H to 8B
- Woodless and water-soluble graphite expand the available drawing techniques
- Includes a steel sharpener, sanding board, vinyl eraser, and kneaded eraser
- Combines pencils and practical cleanup tools in an 18-piece set
Cons:- Turquoise, unpainted pencils may not suit buyers who prefer a traditional finished appearance
- The specialized pencil types may add complexity for artists who only need standard graphite
- The listed set does not include a sketchbook or paper
Best for: Intermediate sketchers and fine-art students who want graded graphite plus water-soluble and woodless options for varied shading techniques.
Not ideal for: Traditionalists who prefer standard finished wood-cased pencils, or beginners who only need a basic graphite set.
- Brand:Prismacolor
- Model:24261
- Piece count:18
- Hardness range:8B to 6H
- Pencil types:Turquoise drawing pencils, woodless graphite pencils, and water-soluble graphite pencils
- Included accessories:Steel sharpener, sanding board, Magic Rub vinyl eraser, and kneaded rubber eraser
- Item weight:11.52 ounces
- Item dimensions:9.75 x 6.37 x 0.85 inches
Our verdict“Choose Prismacolor Premier if you want a versatile graphite toolkit with specialty pencils and cleanup accessories in one set.”
How We Picked
I compared the 15 products by how well their contents support common drawing tasks: graphite sketching, tonal studies, colored-pencil work, and everyday practice. The main criteria were useful grade or color range, control and sharpening needs, included accessories, portability, and how directly the set serves someone looking for drawing pencils rather than general art supplies.
The ranking gives priority to focused sets that offer a clear drawing advantage, such as a useful graphite range or a substantial color selection. Sets with extras rank well when those extras make the kit easier to use, while broad mixed-media assortments rank lower if many items fall outside a pencil-focused need. I also separated graphite, colored, mechanical, and everyday HB pencils rather than treating them as interchangeable.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Drawing Pencils
Before choosing drawing pencils, decide what kind of marks you need and how you prefer to work. These broader factors can help you avoid paying for grades, colors, or accessories that will sit unused.
Match the pencil type to the drawing task
Graphite pencils suit line work, value studies, and monochrome shading, while colored pencils are for layered color and blending. Mechanical pencils keep a consistent point for fine details and preliminary lines, but their lead sizes and hardness options may limit broad tonal work. Ordinary HB pencils are convenient for notes and basic sketches, though they offer less grade variety than a dedicated sketch set. A common mistake is buying a colored-pencil assortment when the actual goal is learning graphite values. Start with the medium you plan to use most, then add another type only when your work calls for it.
Choose a graphite range you will actually use
A wider hardness range can support both pale guidelines and dark shadows, but it takes practice to understand how each grade behaves. Softer grades lay down darker marks and can smudge more readily; harder grades tend to create lighter, sharper lines. Beginners can make strong progress with a few grades across the middle of the range rather than a large assortment. Before buying a set with many pencils, think about whether you draw soft portraits, precise architectural lines, or a mix. If your work depends on fine detail, a very soft pencil may be less useful than a sharp, harder grade.
Treat color count as only one measure of a colored set
A large palette gives more ready-made hues, but it does not automatically make color mixing or layering easier. A smaller selection can be a better learning tool if it encourages you to build colors deliberately and helps you keep track of the pencils you reach for. Soft-core pencils are often suited to broad, blendable marks, though their points may need more frequent sharpening during detailed work. Check whether you prefer a portable selection or many color options at your desk. Choose based on the range you will use, not the biggest number printed on the package.
Account for sharpening, erasing, and refills
Wood-cased pencils need a sharpener, and softer cores can require more frequent attention as the point wears down. Mechanical pencils avoid routine sharpening, but they depend on compatible replacement leads and may not be suited to every shading style. Erasers and sharpeners included in a kit can help you start drawing right away, yet their presence should not outweigh the quality and range of the pencils themselves. Check whether your preferred lead size is easy for you to replace before committing to a mechanical set. For a shared or classroom kit, refill availability and simple maintenance may matter more than specialty grades.
Decide whether a complete art kit is worth the extra breadth
Mixed art kits can be handy when you need a sketchbook and several kinds of supplies in one package. They are less efficient for buyers who want a carefully selected graphite range, since some of the kit’s contents may not support their drawing practice. A dedicated pencil set usually makes it easier to compare grades or colors and identify gaps in your tools. Think about where you will draw, how much you need to carry, and whether you already own paper and accessories. Choose a broad kit for convenience; choose a focused set when pencil selection is the main priority.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which set makes the most sense for learning graphite shading?
Choose a graphite set with grades on both the soft and hard sides of the range so you can practice light lines, midtones, and darker shadows. The Faber-Castell 9000 set’s 8B-to-2H span is especially suited to exploring those contrasts, while the KALOUR 18-piece set offers another varied starting point. A broad range is useful only if you practice with each grade rather than defaulting to one pencil. Keep a small grade chart beside your sketches to learn how pressure and pencil hardness affect value. You do not need a large mixed-art kit just to begin studying graphite.
Should I choose a mechanical pencil or a wood-cased drawing pencil?
A mechanical pencil is a good fit for consistent, fine lines and for drawing away from a sharpener. Wood-cased pencils offer more familiar options for broad shading and a wider range of graphite grades in many dedicated sketch sets. Think about whether your work is mostly detail-oriented or includes large tonal areas. Also check lead size and refill availability, since a mechanical pencil is only convenient if you can replace its lead easily. Some artists use both: a mechanical pencil for detail and wood-cased grades for shading.
Is a 150-color pencil set a better buy for drawing than a smaller palette?
Not necessarily; a large set is most helpful when you regularly need many distinct hues without mixing or layering them yourself. A smaller palette is easier to carry, store, and learn, and may be enough for studies or limited-color illustrations. Soft-core colored pencils can support blending, but the number of colors does not tell you how well a set suits fine detail or your preferred technique. Consider the subjects you draw and whether you tend to reuse a compact group of colors. If you are still learning color relationships, a manageable range can be more practical than a very large assortment.
Are pre-sharpened HB pencils suitable for finished artwork?
They can work for sketches, outlines, and casual drawing, especially when convenience matters more than a broad range of values. A single HB grade gives less control over light-to-dark contrast than a sketch set with multiple hardness grades. The erasers on everyday pencils are handy for quick corrections, but they do not turn an HB pack into a specialist drawing kit. For finished graphite work, consider whether you need softer grades for shadows or harder grades for crisp details. Keep an HB pencil as a general-purpose option if your main drawing needs are more varied.
When is a large mixed-supply kit a better choice than a dedicated pencil set?
A mixed kit makes sense when you are starting with few supplies and want several tools and paper in one purchase. It can also suit group activities where variety matters more than a carefully chosen graphite range. If you already own sketchbooks, sharpeners, or other art materials, a focused pencil set is less likely to leave you with duplicate or unused items. Look at how much of the kit is devoted to pencils and whether its contents match the kind of drawing you plan to do. For pencil technique practice, a dedicated set usually gives a clearer and more relevant selection.
Conclusion
For a focused graphite setup, I recommend the Faber-Castell 9000 as the best overall choice, with its broad 8B-to-2H range supporting varied tonal work. The best value direction is a straightforward sketch set such as KALOUR’s 18-piece option when you want range without committing to a premium specialist set. For a premium graphite kit with useful extras, choose the Prismacolor Premier Graphite 18-Piece set; for beginners, KALOUR offers an approachable spread of grades to explore. Colored-pencil artists should choose Prismacolor Premier’s 150-color set for palette breadth or its 48-color set for a more contained collection, while detail-focused artists may prefer Nicpro’s mechanical set. If you want supplies beyond pencils, the Caliart kit offers broader coverage, but dedicated pencil sets are the better fit when drawing is the main goal.
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