10 Best Watercolor Pencils 2025 in the United States

The Derwent Inktense Color Pencils set is a strong contender in the watercolor pencil category, particularly appealing to artists who enjoy vibrant colors and versatility. With a 4mm soft lead core, these pencils deliver bold, expressive drawings thanks to their high pigment quality. Users appreciate the rich color payoff and the ability to blend and layer colors without worrying about bleeding, as the pigments dry quickly and permanently once activated with water.

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

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