Finding colored pencils for your next project should be simple. But picking the right set can feel overwhelming fast.
There are so many options—different colors, materials, and brands. Some are made for beginners, others for artists, and many sit somewhere in between. The number of pencils, the smoothness of the core, and even the storage case can all make a difference.
If you’re on a budget, it’s hard to know if paying less means giving up quality, or if a bigger set really matters. Some pencils blend well but break easily. Others last longer but can feel scratchy or dull. None are perfect at everything.
This guide will help you see what really separates these sets so you can choose what fits your needs and your budget.
What To Notice When Choosing
Think about how you plan to use your colored pencils. If you like smooth blending or layering colors, look for softer cores. For sketching or fine details, a firmer pencil might help. The number of pencils sounds important, but sometimes a smaller range of good colors is easier to use than a huge set with lots of similar shades.
Storage cases and included sharpeners are nice extras, but the feel of the pencil on paper matters most.
The products below are grouped to show a range of options. Each one fits a different type of user or project. What’s right for you depends on how you like to work and what you care about most.
Kalour 72 Count Colored Pencils Set
A top choice in Best Colored Pencils under 25 Dollars, perfect for adults, kids, and beginners who want a versatile coloring set.
The KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils Set is designed for anyone who enjoys coloring, drawing, or sketching, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned hobbyist. Its soft core leads provide vibrant, blendable colors, making it easy to achieve smooth shading and creative gradients without frustration.
With every pencil individually numbered and named, finding and organizing your favorite shades is quick and simple.
In real-life use, the pencils feel comfortable and reliable—easy to sharpen and resistant to breakage, so you don’t waste time replacing tips. The wide range of 72 colors makes coloring books and art projects much more enjoyable, letting you focus on creativity rather than hunting for the right hue.
- Strengths:
- 72 unique colors for maximum variety
- Soft, blendable cores ideal for shading and layering
- Easy color identification with labeled pencils
- Break-resistant leads and quality basswood construction
- Limitations:
- Not intended for professional artists seeking archival-quality pigments
- No included sharpener or case
Is This Set Right For You?
If you’re looking for a reliable, affordable set for coloring books, school projects, or casual sketching, this KALOUR set is a stress-free pick. Beginners and adults alike will appreciate the ease of blending and the thoughtful labeling system, which removes confusion over color selection.
However, if you need artist-grade pencils for advanced techniques, you might want to look elsewhere.
Keep the pencils organized and try grouping similar shades for even smoother blending. Whether you’re just starting out or coloring to relax, you can use this set confidently knowing it delivers consistent results. For everyday creative needs, it’s a practical, no-fuss choice.
Shuttle Art 80 Colored Pencils Set
This pick for Best Colored Pencils under 25 Dollars is ideal for anyone—from beginners to artists—who wants a wide range of colors for sketching, coloring books, or creative projects.
The Shuttle Art 80 Colored Pencils Set offers a spectrum of 80 vibrant, non-duplicated shades, each clearly named and numbered for quick selection. This set is particularly helpful for anyone who wants to avoid color confusion and experience smooth, break-resistant coloring—whether for school projects, relaxing adult coloring books, or creative sketching.
In everyday use, these pencils feel reliable and easy to organize thanks to the labeled barrels and closely matched body colors. The soft core glides smoothly and resists chipping, making blending and layering both enjoyable and frustration-free, even for beginners or younger artists.
- Wide range: 80 unique, clearly labeled colors—no repeats
- Soft, break-resistant core designed for smooth blending
- Non-toxic and acid-free, safe for all ages
- Ideal for coloring books, sketches, and classroom use
Should You Choose This Set?
If you crave variety and want a hassle-free coloring experience without overspending, this set is a smart choice for both adults and kids. It’s especially great for those who dislike wasting time searching for the right color or dealing with fragile pencil tips.
However, if you need professional, lightfast artist pencils for gallery work, you might want a more specialized set. For most creative needs, though, this kit removes the stress of limited color options and gives you more time to focus on your art. Tip: Keep the pencils organized in their original box for quick access and less mess.
Yagol 72 Colored Pencils Set
If you’re searching for the Best Colored Pencils under 25 Dollars, this set is ideal for adults and hobbyists wanting reliable, vibrant color for their creative projects.
The Yagol 72 Colored Pencils Set offers an impressive array of colors designed specifically for adult coloring books, sketching, and creative projects. The set stands out with its smooth, velvety soft cores that allow for vibrant layering and effortless blending—solving the common frustration of dull or scratchy pencils found in cheaper sets.
In daily use, these pencils feel reliable and pleasant in hand, thanks to their break-resistant leads and easy identification with color names and numbers. The included sturdy tube case keeps everything organized, making it simple to bring your entire palette wherever inspiration strikes.
- Strengths:
- 72 rich and intensely pigmented colors
- Soft, blendable cores ideal for layering and shading
- Non-toxic and safe for adults and teens
- Sturdy tube case for convenient storage and transport
- Works on multiple surfaces: paper, canvas, eggshell, wood
- Limitations:
- Not suitable for children under 3 (small parts)
- No included sharpener
Is This Colored Pencil Set For You?
This set is a practical pick for adults, teens, or hobbyists who want a wide color selection for their drawing, coloring, or sketching activities without overspending. If you prioritize smooth blending and enjoy working with multiple hues on various surfaces, you’ll find this set both satisfying and dependable.
However, if you need professional-grade pencils for advanced portraiture or require accessories like sharpeners included, you might want to consider higher-end options. For most colorists and creative enthusiasts, though, this set removes the guesswork of choosing reliable pencils—just open the tube and start creating.
For best results, pair with a quality sharpener and experiment with the included fold-out tutorial for new coloring techniques.
Prismacolor Premier 24ct Colored Pencils
One of the Best Colored Pencils under 25 Dollars, perfect for artists and coloring enthusiasts seeking smooth, vibrant results without breaking the bank.
The Prismacolor Premier 24-count colored pencils set is designed for anyone who wants rich, professional-quality color without spending a fortune. With soft, thick cores, these pencils make it easy to achieve smooth blends and beautiful shading, making them especially popular for adult coloring, sketching, and detailed art projects.
Their ultra-smooth laydown means you won’t have to struggle with scratchy or uneven application—just vibrant color every time.
In real-life use, these pencils are a pleasure—reliable enough for beginners but satisfying for more advanced artists. The robust leads resist cracking and chipping, reducing the frustration of constant sharpening or broken tips. You’ll spend more time creating and less time fixing, so your focus stays on your art instead of on your tools.
- Standout Strengths:
- Ultra-smooth, even color laydown for effortless blending and shading
- Thick, durable cores that resist cracking and chipping
- Richly saturated pigments for bold, lasting color
- Great selection of 24 vibrant colors, including hard-to-find shades like Mulberry and Parma Violet
- Potential Limitations:
- Not water-soluble (not suited for watercolor effects)
- Box may be too small for large or professional projects requiring a wider range of colors
Who Will Love These Colored Pencils?
If you want quality colored pencils for under $25, these are a smart choice for hobbyists, students, or anyone building their first “serious” art kit. The smoothness and pigment strength give you the confidence to try new techniques, from blending to layering, without worrying about streaks or breakage.
If you need a huge variety of colors or specialty effects, you might eventually want a larger set, but for most creative needs, this box covers all the essentials.
Anyone tired of scratchy, brittle pencils will appreciate how much hassle these remove—just keep a sharpener handy and enjoy the process. A practical tip: store them in their original tin to keep them safe and organized. You can feel calm knowing these pencils deliver consistent, reliable performance for art and relaxation alike.
Kird Barken 80 Colored Pencils Set
For anyone searching for the Best Colored Pencils under 25 Dollars, this set is a versatile choice suited for adult coloring, beginners, and artists alike.
The Kird Barken 80 Colored Pencils Set offers a broad selection of vibrant, oil-based pencils perfect for coloring books, sketching, and illustration. With clearly marked colors and a handy swatch chart, it solves the challenge of quickly finding and organizing your preferred shades for any creative project.
Using these pencils feels smooth and effortless—the soft cores blend easily, so layering and shading take less time and look natural. Whether you’re new to coloring or an experienced artist, you’ll appreciate the sturdy gift box and the reliable after-sales support that keeps your creative process worry-free.
- Strengths:
- 80 colors spanning bright, earth, and pastel tones
- Oil-based soft core for smooth blending
- Color names and numbers printed on each pencil
- Includes blank swatch chart for personalization
- Gift-ready packaging
- Limitations:
- No included sharpener
- Not ideal for very young children (recommended for teens/adults)
Who Will Benefit Most
If you enjoy coloring books, sketching, or want a reliable set for art projects without spending much, this set is a great match. Beginners and hobbyists will find the color variety and labeling especially helpful, while seasoned artists can use it for quick studies or travel.
Those seeking premium artist-grade pencils for professional commissions may want to look elsewhere, but for everyday creativity and relaxation, these pencils remove the stress of hunting for the right color and make organization easy.
To get the most out of this set, build your custom swatch chart as soon as you open the box—it speeds up your workflow and boosts confidence in your color choices. You can relax knowing that support is available if you run into issues, making this a low-risk, enjoyable upgrade to your art toolkit.
Finenolo 36 Colored Pencils Set
Among the Best Colored Pencils under 25 Dollars, this set is ideal for adults, teens, or beginners looking for reliable, richly pigmented pencils for coloring, sketching, or art projects.
This 36-pack colored pencil set from finenolo is a versatile solution for anyone who enjoys coloring, drawing, or sketching—whether you’re an artist, student, or just unwinding with an adult coloring book. The set stands out for its innovative oil-based cores, which provide rich pigmentation and smooth layering without the waxy residue some pencils leave behind.
The pencils are housed in a sturdy eco-friendly tube and feature a built-in sharpener, making it easy to keep your pencils sharp wherever you go. The hexagonal barrels offer a comfortable, slip-free grip, and the included range of colors ensures you’ll find the right shade for any project.
With their break-resistant tips, you can draw confidently without constant sharpening or snapping.
- Strengths:
- 36 vivid, blendable colors
- Oil-based, break-resistant cores
- Comfortable, anti-roll hexagonal barrels
- Eco-friendly storage tube with sharpener included
- Light and sun resistant—colors stay true over time
- Limitations:
- No extra specialty colors (e.g., metallics)
- Best suited for ages 12 and up
Is This Set Right For You?
If you want a reliable, affordable colored pencil set for adult coloring books, casual sketching, or creative projects, the finenolo 36-pack is an excellent fit. It’s especially practical for those who value smooth blending and a comfortable grip, or anyone tired of pencils that constantly break.
Beginners and hobbyists will appreciate the included sharpener and easy-to-carry tube.
On the other hand, if you’re searching for artist-grade pencils with a broader color selection or specialty finishes, you might need to look higher in the price range. For everyone else, this set removes the frustration of frequent breakage and dull tips—just keep the tube nearby, and you’re always ready to create. Tip: Try layering colors lightly for the smoothest blends and boldest results.
Pentel Arts 12 Colored Pencils Set
One of the Best Colored Pencils under 25 Dollars, ideal for students, beginner artists, and anyone seeking affordable quality for drawing and coloring projects.
Pentel Arts Colored Pencils (Set of 12) offer an affordable entry into quality coloring tools for creative projects. The real wood-cased pencils come pre-sharpened, and their strong, break-resistant leads make them reliable for everyday use. If you’re looking for colored pencils that smoothly apply and blend for rich shading, these stand out in the budget category.
In real life, these pencils are easy to use whether you’re sketching, coloring, or experimenting with blending techniques. Their fade-resistant colors ensure your artwork lasts, and the compact set is portable for school or casual drawing sessions. You can confidently toss them in a bag without worrying about frequent lead breakage.
- Strengths:
- Blends easily for subtle shading and color mixes
- Durable, glued-in leads resist breaking
- Colors remain vivid and fade-resistant
- Pre-sharpened for immediate use
- Limitations:
- Only 12 colors—may not suit advanced artists needing a wide palette
- Basic color selection, primarily for entry-level users
Who Will Appreciate This Set
If you’re a student or casual artist seeking Best Colored Pencils under 25 Dollars, this Pentel set is a smart pick. It helps remove the stress of constantly replacing broken leads and offers peace of mind that your colors will stay vibrant over time.
Those who need a simple, reliable set for schoolwork or hobby drawing will find it fits their needs.
On the other hand, if you’re working on professional pieces or need a broader spectrum of colors, you may want a larger set. For everyone else, a practical tip: keep the pencils in their original box to stay organized and minimize loss. The sturdy design and lasting colors mean you can focus on creativity—not pencil maintenance.
Drawdart 72 Color Soft Core Pencils Set
One of the Best Colored Pencils under 25 Dollars, this set is ideal for adult coloring enthusiasts, hobby artists, and beginners who want a wide color selection without breaking the bank.
The Drawdart 72 Color Soft Core Pencils Set is a versatile collection designed for adults who love coloring books, artists who sketch, and anyone looking for a broad palette at an affordable price. Each pencil features a rich, velvety soft core that glides smoothly and lays down vibrant color, making blending and layering effortless for both beginners and more experienced users.
With its sturdy zippered case, this set is easy to organize and transport, so you can take your creative projects anywhere without worrying about losing or damaging your pencils. The soft oil-based cores mean colors appear bright and full, making each coloring session relaxing and satisfying.
- Strengths:
- 72 distinct, clearly labeled colors for easy selection
- Soft, blendable core ideal for layering and shading
- Durable, break-resistant leads
- Compact zippered case keeps everything organized and portable
- Safe, non-toxic materials suitable for ages 12 and up
- Consider:
- Not intended for very young children due to the number of pencils
- Oil-based cores may feel different from standard wax pencils
Should You Choose This Set?
If you’re looking for one of the best colored pencil sets under $25 for adult coloring books or creative hobbies, this Drawdart set offers a lot of value and flexibility. It’s a great option for anyone who wants a reliable, colorful toolkit without the hassle of constantly replacing broken leads or searching for lost pencils.
Those who prefer a smaller, ultra-portable set or are seeking pencils for young children might want to consider alternatives. For most adult and teen artists, though, the included case and sharpener mean less mess and more time to focus on creative enjoyment.
Remember to keep the case zipped to avoid pencils rolling away—an easy way to keep your creative space stress-free.
Aenir 72 Colored Pencils Set
A top pick for Best Colored Pencils under 25 Dollars, this set is perfect for adult coloring enthusiasts, beginners, and teens seeking a wide palette without overspending.
The Aenir 72 Colored Pencils Set is a versatile pack designed for adult coloring books and creative projects. It solves the hassle of limited color options by offering a robust selection of shades, each with oil-based cores for smooth blending and layering.
The sturdy cylindrical case adds convenience for safe storage and easy transport, whether at home or on the go.
In practice, these pencils feel comfortable and reliable, making coloring sessions more enjoyable and less stressful. You can confidently use them for intricate artwork or casual doodles, knowing the colors will remain vibrant and the tips durable. I appreciate how quickly you can switch between hues, saving time and keeping your creative flow uninterrupted.
- Strengths:
- 72 vivid colors for detailed artwork
- Oil-based cores for smooth blending
- Sturdy, portable packaging
- Suitable for beginners and experienced artists
- Affordable for its size and quality
- Limitations:
- No included sharpener
- May feel slightly heavy for younger kids
Who Will Enjoy This Set Most?
If you love coloring books, sketching, or want to experiment with a wide range of colors, this set makes things easier and more enjoyable. It’s ideal for adults, teens, and beginners who want quality pencils without the stress of a high price tag.
Experienced artists looking for an affordable backup set will also appreciate its reliability.
Those who need professional-grade pencils for advanced techniques or extremely soft leads might want to look elsewhere. For everyday creativity, however, this set removes confusion about color selection and storage. My tip: Keep the case handy so you can take your pencils wherever inspiration strikes. It’s reassuring to know you’re getting a well-rounded set at a great value.
Funlavie 24 Soft Core Colored Pencils Set
One of the Best Colored Pencils under 25 Dollars, this set is perfect for adults who want premium coloring tools for creative relaxation or artistic projects.
This set by FUNLAVIE includes 24 pre-sharpened, soft core colored pencils and a handy sharpener, making it a ready-to-use kit for artists and coloring enthusiasts. The soft core design helps you achieve smooth, vibrant color with little effort, so it’s ideal if you want pencils that blend easily without needing to press hard.
In everyday use, these pencils feel reliable and easy to carry thanks to their compact, travel-friendly size. You won’t worry about breakage, and the included sharpener means you can keep coloring anywhere without interruption—whether you’re at your desk or relaxing outdoors.
- Strengths:
- Pre-sharpened and ready to use
- Includes sharpener in the box
- Soft core for smooth blending and vibrant color
- Durable, break-resistant leads
- Compact and portable for travel or commuting
- Safe for all ages
- Potential Limitation:
- Limited to 24 colors; may not satisfy those seeking a very wide palette
Should You Pick This Set?
If you want one of the Best Colored Pencils under 25 Dollars that’s easy to grab and go, this set is a smart pick for adult coloring book fans, beginners, and anyone who wants dependable color on the move. It removes the hassle of searching for sharpeners or worrying about broken leads, making creative sessions more enjoyable and less stressful.
This set is less suited for those who need a vast array of colors or highly specialized artist-grade pencils for professional commissions. For most hobbyists and casual artists, however, the balance of quality, convenience, and value is just right. Tip: Keep the pencils in their box for travel—it’s compact enough for your bag and keeps everything organized.
Mega Deals 12 Colored Pencils Set
One of the Best Colored Pencils under 25 Dollars, this set is ideal for adults and teens looking for reliable, vibrant coloring tools without breaking the bank.
The Mega Deals 12 Colored Pencils Set is a thoughtfully designed, affordable art supply perfect for adult coloring books, projects, and creative hobbies. With 12 vibrant, smooth shades and a sharpener included, it solves the problem of dull, unreliable pencils and constant searching for a sharpener—making it a practical pick for beginners and experienced colorists alike.
The soft, break-resistant cores allow for easy blending, shading, and layering, creating a smooth coloring experience that doesn’t get interrupted by frustrating breaks. Whether you’re sketching detailed art or relaxing with a coloring book, these non-toxic pencils deliver consistent, rich coverage and are always ready to use straight from the box.
- Strengths:
- Vivid, blendable colors ideal for adult coloring books
- Comes pre-sharpened with a sharpener included
- Soft, break-resistant leads reduce interruptions
- Lightfast pigments that won’t fade easily
- Non-toxic and safe for teens and adults
- Potential Limitations:
- Only 12 colors in the set—may not suit advanced artists who need a wide palette
- Not designed specifically for professional-level illustrations
Who Will Appreciate This Set?
If you’re just getting into coloring books, need dependable colored pencils for school, or want a gift-ready art supply that won’t disappoint, this set is a strong fit. Those who need a vast range of colors or specialized artist tools may want something more expansive, but for everyday creativity, this covers all the basics.
It takes the guesswork out of buying affordable, quality pencils and saves you the hassle of frequent sharpening or snapped leads. Store the sharpener with your set for best results, and enjoy worry-free coloring sessions knowing you’ve chosen a reliable, safe option.
Prismacolor Scholar 60 Colored Pencils Set
As one of the Best Colored Pencils under 25 Dollars, this set is ideal for students, beginners, and anyone looking to explore artistic techniques without breaking the bank.
The Prismacolor Scholar 60 Colored Pencils Set offers a broad spectrum of vibrant colors with smooth cores for easy and vivid color laydown. Designed to minimize breakage, these pencils are especially useful for developing artists who need reliable tools that won’t interrupt their creative flow.
Whether you’re practicing blending, shading, or adding fine details to your sketches, the Scholar pencils make the process enjoyable and frustration-free. The strong lead resists snapping, so you can focus more on your art and less on sharpening, making them great for classroom or at-home use.
- Vivid, blendable colors for diverse art projects
- Durable cores withstand regular sharpening and use
- Ideal for students, beginners, and anyone experimenting with different techniques
- Comes in a generous 60-count pack for maximum variety
Who Will Appreciate This Set?
If you’re starting out with colored pencils or want a budget-friendly option for experimenting, this Prismacolor set is a smart pick. It’s especially helpful for students and hobbyists who need quality without extra cost or worry about constant breakage. However, professional artists seeking the absolute softest or most pigment-rich pencils may prefer higher-end options.
With these pencils, you can try new techniques, work on school projects, or simply enjoy coloring as a relaxing hobby—without stressing over supplies. For best results, use a gentle hand when layering colors, and store them in their original box to keep them organized and protected.
How To Approach Picking Colored Pencils On A Budget
Think about what you actually want to do with your pencils—coloring books, sketching, or blending. More colors can mean more options, but also more to carry and organize. Consider whether you prefer soft or hard cores, and if you want oil-based or wax-based options.
Storage style, portability, and durability matter for different lifestyles. Decide what you can compromise on and what you can’t.
Who Should Rethink Buying Budget Colored Pencils
- If you expect the same results as premium, artist-grade pencils, you may be disappointed.
- Those needing highly lightfast or archival materials for professional works should look elsewhere.
- Buyers wanting a single set to last for years of daily, heavy use might not be satisfied.
- If you dislike sharpening, soft-cored pencils can frustrate you.
- People who dislike organizing or carrying large sets may find high-count boxes overwhelming.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Colored Pencils Under 25 Dollars
Are These Budget Colored Pencils Suitable For Adult Coloring Books?
Most are designed for adult coloring books and casual art. They generally blend well and offer a good color range for hobby use.
Will Cheaper Pencils Break More Easily?
Budget pencils can have softer cores that break if dropped or sharpened roughly. Gentle handling and a quality sharpener help reduce breakage.
Do These Pencils Work Well For Blending And Layering?
Some sets blend better than others. Expect smoother blending with oil-based or soft-core pencils, but practice and paper type matter too.
Is There A Big Difference Between 12 And 72+ Color Sets?
Larger sets offer more shades but may include similar colors. Smaller sets require more mixing but are simpler to manage and transport.
Are These Pencils Safe For Children?
Most are non-toxic, but always check the packaging for safety marks. Small parts like sharpeners may not be suitable for young kids.
Can I Use These Pencils For Professional Art Projects?
They are best for sketches, studies, and hobby work. For professional or archival projects, higher-end pencils may be needed.
Will The Colors Fade Over Time?
Budget pencils can fade if exposed to light for long periods. For lasting work, keep finished pieces away from sunlight or use higher lightfastness materials.
Making A Balanced Choice With Budget Colored Pencils
Whatever set you choose, it helps to know your priorities and how you plan to use them. There’s no single right answer—just the right fit for your needs, style, and space.
Trust your instincts, and remember that creativity isn’t limited by price. The best pencil is the one you’ll enjoy using again and again.
