If you’re looking for professional-grade colored pencil sets that deliver vibrant color, smooth blending, and reliable performance, you’re in the right place. The PRINA Art Supplies 120 Colors stands out for its extensive color range and portability, making it perfect for both artists and hobbyists. Meanwhile, Prismacolor Premier offers soft cores and rich pigments tailored for shading and detailed work, ideal for serious artists. Lastly, Kalour 180 provides a large selection with metallic options, suited for those who want versatility and a touch of flair. Each set trades off between color variety, core softness, and price point, so your choice depends on your specific needs and skill level.
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- The PRINA 120-color set offers the broadest color range and portability, but oil-based cores may require more sharpening.
- The Prismacolor Premier excels for shading and blending with its soft, thick cores, yet it comes at a higher cost per pencil.
- The Kalour 180 set includes metallic pencils for added variety, but its soft cores can be fragile with heavy use.
- For beginners or casual artists, smaller sets like Kalour 72 or Castle Art Supplies provide quality without overwhelming options.
- Price and core softness are tradeoffs; softer cores improve blending but tend to break more easily, especially in larger sets.
| colored pencil sets professional | Core Type |
|---|---|
| PRINA Art Supplies 120 Colors | Oil-based |
| Prismacolor Premier Colored Pe | Soft |
| Kalour 180 Colored Pencil Set | Soft |
| Castle Art Supplies Colored Pe | Soft |
| Kalour 72-Color Soft Core Colo | Soft |
More Details on Our Top Picks
PRINA Art Supplies 120 Colors Colored Pencils Set for Adults and Kids with Sketchbook
This set stands out for its extensive 120 color options, making it a strong choice for artists who want a broad palette without switching sets. The oil-based cores provide smooth, rich application, comparable to many professional options, though they demand more sharpening. It includes a compact sketchbook and a zipper case, perfect for artists on the go. Compared with other large sets, the PRINA offers excellent value for those who need a mix of portability and variety. Its soft cores may be prone to breakage if mishandled, and oil-based pencils can be less durable than wax-based ones, but overall, it delivers professional quality at an accessible price point.
Pros:- Vibrant and rich pigment for professional-quality coloring
- Includes a sketchbook and case for convenience and portability
- Non-toxic and eco-friendly materials safe for all ages
Cons:- Oil-based pencils may require more sharpening
- No specific mention of eraser or sharpener included
- Some users may find the soft core prone to breakage
Best for: Artists who need a wide range of colors in a portable, all-in-one package for both sketching and detailed work
Not ideal for: Artists who prefer softer cores for shading or require heavy blending without sharpening concerns
- Number of Colors:120
- Includes:Sketchbook, Zipper Case
- Core Type:Oil-based
- Standards:ASTM D-4236, EN71
Our verdict“A versatile, large-color set ideal for artists who value portability and a broad palette, with some tradeoffs in core durability.”
Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils, Soft Core, Assorted Colors, 48 Count
Compared with larger sets, Prismacolor Premier 48 offers a curated selection of vibrant, lightfast pigments with soft, thick cores designed for smooth shading and blending. This pick makes the most sense for artists who focus on detailed work and color layering rather than needing a vast palette. The tin case enhances portability, and the durable leads resist chipping, making them suitable for frequent use. On the downside, the softer cores tend to wear faster, especially under heavy pressure, and the limited number of shades may restrict complex projects. Nonetheless, the high pigment quality and soft cores make these pencils a favorite for professional shading work.
Pros:- Vibrant, lightfast pigments for stunning colors
- Soft, thick cores ideal for shading and blending
- Durable leads resistant to cracking and chipping
Cons:- Pencils may wear faster with heavy use
- Colors may vary slightly in different batches
Best for: Artists prioritizing shading, blending, and detailed work with a manageable set of high-quality colors
Not ideal for: Those needing a large variety of colors or working on projects requiring extensive color choices
- Count:48
- Core Type:Soft
- Pigments:Lightfast, richly saturated
- Use:Shading, blending, drawing
- Case:Tin case
- Made in:USA
Our verdict“A focused set for artists who want rich pigments and soft cores for detailed shading, with some limited color variety.”
Kalour 180 Colored Pencil Set for Adults and Artists – Rich Pigment Soft Core – 12 Metallic Pencils in Tin Case
This set offers a substantial 180 vibrant colored pencils, including 12 metallic shades, making it a versatile choice for color variety and special effects. The soft cores facilitate smooth application across different surfaces, comparable to professional standards. Its portable tin case keeps everything organized, and the labeled color names simplify selection. However, the large number of pencils can be overwhelming, and metallic shades require careful handling to avoid breakage. The soft cores also tend to be more fragile if not used gently, but overall, this set provides excellent value for artists seeking both standard and metallic finishes.
Pros:- Vibrant, rich pigments for professional-quality coloring
- Includes metallic pencils for added variety
- Organized in a durable, portable tin case
Cons:- Some users may find the number of pencils overwhelming
- Metallic pencils may require more careful handling
- Soft cores can break if not handled gently
Best for: Artists who want a large palette with metallic options and vibrant colors for creative projects
Not ideal for: Professionals requiring extremely durable cores or minimal complexity in color choices
- Number of Pencils:180
- Includes Metallic Pencils:12
- Core Type:Soft
- Material:Basswood
- Certification:ASTM D-4236, EN71-3
- Packaging:Tin case
Our verdict“Best suited for artists who need a large, versatile palette including metallics, with some tradeoffs in core fragility.”
Castle Art Supplies Colored Pencils Set | 72 Premium Soft Core Colored Leads for Adult Artists
This set emphasizes quality and ease of use, with 72 color-coded, soft core pencils in a presentation tin. The rich pigments enable smooth layering and blending, making it suitable for artists seeking to improve their skills or work on more refined projects. The included tutorial adds value for those wanting to develop techniques. Compared with larger sets, it offers a balanced selection without being overwhelming. However, the limited color count might restrict complex color schemes, and the soft cores can wear down faster under intensive use. It strikes a good balance between quality and manageability.
Pros:- Vivid, richly pigmented colors for smooth application
- Organized in a convenient presentation tin
- Includes a tutorial for skill development
Cons:- Limited to 72 colors, may not suit large projects
- Soft cores may wear faster with heavy use
Best for: Artists focused on skill-building and detailed work who prefer a curated palette
Not ideal for: Professionals needing extensive color options or artists requiring a large, diverse set
- Number of Pencils:72
- Case Type:Presentation tin
- Core Type:Soft
- Intended Use:Adult artists
Our verdict“A quality set perfect for artists honing their skills with reliable, professional-grade colors and tools.”
Kalour 72-Color Soft Core Colored Pencils for Adults & Kids, Drawing & Blending Set
This set offers a straightforward selection of 72 high-quality, soft core pencils suitable for a wide range of users, from kids to adult hobbyists. The vibrant pigments provide excellent color payoff, and the soft cores facilitate easy blending and shading. The durable basswood bodies are easy to sharpen, and safety standards make it suitable for children and beginners. Compared with larger, more complex sets, this option provides a manageable variety for those new to colored pencils. Its main limitation is the smaller color range, which might not satisfy professional artists needing extensive shades for nuanced projects. Still, it offers reliable quality at an accessible price.
Pros:- Vivid, highly pigmented colors for detailed artwork
- Soft cores ideal for blending and shading
- Non-toxic, safe for children
Cons:- Soft cores may break if not handled carefully
- Limited to 72 colors, less suited for complex projects
Best for: Beginners, students, and casual artists seeking a safe, easy-to-use set
Not ideal for: Professional artists requiring a broader palette and more durable cores for heavy use
- Number of Colors:72
- Core Type:Soft
- Material:Basswood
- Safety Standards:ASTM D-4236, EN71-3
- Intended Users:Adults, Kids, Beginners
Our verdict“A practical, safe choice for beginners and casual artists needing good quality with a smaller palette.”
How We Picked
My selection process focused on balancing professional performance features with practical considerations. I evaluated the quality of pigments, core softness, color variety, and durability, aiming to identify sets suitable for serious artists while considering beginner-friendly options. I compared user reviews for consistency, checked for non-toxic standards, and looked at included accessories like cases and tutorials. The ranking emphasizes versatility, pigment richness, and ease of use, ensuring each pick has a clear role within the spectrum of professional colored pencils.
| colored pencil sets professional | Core Type |
|---|---|
| PRINA Art Supplies 120 Colors | Oil-based |
| Prismacolor Premier Colored Pe | Soft |
| Kalour 180 Colored Pencil Set | Soft |
| Castle Art Supplies Colored Pe | Soft |
| Kalour 72-Color Soft Core Colo | Soft |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Colored Pencil Sets Professional
When choosing professional colored pencil sets, consider your specific needs and skill level. Key factors include color variety, core softness, and durability. Larger sets like PRINA and Kalour are ideal for artists who need extensive palettes and versatility, while premium options like Prismacolor are better for detailed shading and blending. Beginners or those seeking affordability might prefer smaller, high-quality sets like Castle Art Supplies or Kalour 72, which balance performance with ease of use.Color Range and Variety
The number of colors directly impacts your ability to create nuanced artwork. Sets with 120 or more colors, like PRINA and Kalour 180, are suited for complex projects, while 72-color sets offer a manageable palette for skill development or casual use. Consider whether you need metallics or special shades, which are included in some larger sets.
Core Type and Durability
Soft cores provide smooth blending and vibrant color laydown, but they tend to wear out faster and are more fragile. Oil-based cores, like in PRINA, require more sharpening but are less prone to breakage. Harder wax-based cores may last longer but can be less smooth for blending. Your choice depends on your working style and project demands.
Additional Features
Look for sets that include accessories like cases, sharpeners, or tutorials, which add value. Non-toxic standards are essential if you work with children or prefer environmentally friendly materials. Portability and presentation cases make a significant difference if you often work outdoors or travel with your supplies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are professional colored pencils suitable for beginners?
Yes, many professional sets like Kalour 72 or Castle Art Supplies are designed to be user-friendly, with easy-to-sharpen soft cores and vibrant pigments that help beginners achieve good results quickly. While they are capable of professional work, they also provide a manageable starting point for learning techniques without overwhelming color options.
What is the main difference between oil-based and wax-based colored pencils?
Oil-based pencils, such as PRINA, tend to have softer, more vibrant cores that blend smoothly but require more sharpening and can be prone to breakage. Wax-based pencils typically offer harder cores that last longer and are easier to sharpen, but they may not blend as seamlessly. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize blending ease or durability.
How many colors do I need for professional artwork?
For most professional projects, a set with at least 120 colors offers a broad enough palette for detailed shading and color variation. Sets with 180 or more provide even greater flexibility, especially if you incorporate metallics or specialty shades. However, a smaller, high-quality set can be sufficient for focused work or specific styles.
Are metallic colored pencils worth the extra cost?
Metallic pencils, like those in Kalour 180, add special effects and are popular for decorative and expressive artwork. They can be more fragile and require careful handling, but if your projects benefit from metallic or shimmer finishes, they are a valuable addition to your toolkit. For standard coloring and shading, they may be less necessary.
What safety standards should I look for in colored pencils?
Look for sets with certifications like ASTM D-4236 or EN71-3, which ensure the pencils are non-toxic and safe for children and adults alike. This is especially important if the set will be used by kids or in environments where safety is a priority. Most reputable brands meet these standards, making them suitable for all users.
Conclusion
If you are a professional artist or serious hobbyist seeking maximum versatility and color variety, the PRINA 120-color set offers an excellent balance of quality and portability. For artists focused on shading and blending, Prismacolor Premier provides soft cores and vibrant pigments that excel in detailed work. Those looking for a large, creative palette with metallic options will find the Kalour 180 set compelling. Beginners or casual users should consider smaller, high-quality sets like Castle Art Supplies or Kalour 72 for reliable performance without the overwhelming number of shades. Your choice ultimately depends on your specific project needs and skill level.
