10 Best Soft Colored Pencils 2025 in the United States

The KALOUR 72 Count Colored Pencils are designed for artists, hobbyists, and beginners who appreciate vibrant colors and smooth application. With 72 different shades, this set offers an extensive range that can cater to various artistic projects, whether for coloring books or drawing. The high pigment quality stands out, allowing for vivid and rich color laydown, which is ideal for blending and shading techniques. The soft core of these pencils enhances the coloring experience, making it easy to create smooth gradients and layers of color.

One of the significant advantages of these pencils is their durability; the break-resistant cores ensure that they withstand frequent use without snapping easily. Additionally, the pencils are made of high-quality basswood, which simplifies sharpening and helps maintain a fine point for detailed work.

However, there are a few points to consider. While the softness of the core is beneficial for coloring, it may not hold up well for precise lines or intricate details, which might be a drawback for some artists. Furthermore, the pencils may require more frequent sharpening when used heavily, which can be a minor inconvenience. The KALOUR set is especially suitable for adults and children aged 5 and up, making it a versatile option for families or classrooms. It’s also a fantastic gift choice given its non-toxic materials and the joy of exploring colors.

The Soucolor 72-Color Colored Pencils are a solid choice for anyone from adults to kids and teens looking to engage in coloring, drawing, or sketching. One of their biggest strengths is the pigment quality, offering vibrant colors that are perfect for blending and shading. With a soft core, these pencils provide a smooth coloring experience and are easy to sharpen, which is great for users who want to quickly add detail to their artwork without the hassle of frequent breaks or crumbles.

The range of 72 colors is impressive, catering to diverse artistic needs and preferences. The included pencil box is a thoughtful addition, helping to keep everything organized and easily accessible, which is especially beneficial for those who use multiple colors in their work.

While the softness of the pencils allows for excellent blending, it might also mean they require a more delicate touch during use. Some users might find that they need to be mindful to avoid putting too much pressure, as this could lead to breakage. Additionally, the materials are odorless and safe, but the warning about small parts suggests they aren't suitable for very young children, which limits their usability for families with toddlers. The Soucolor colored pencils are well-suited for hobbyists and beginners looking for quality art supplies that offer a blend of durability and color vibrancy. With their ease of sharpening and excellent blendability, they stand out as a reliable option in the realm of art supplies. Cautious handling is advised due to the soft nature of the lead.

The Prismacolor Premier Colored Pencils with a count of 36 offers a range of vibrant, richly saturated colors that are ideal for adult coloring and detailed artwork. The softness of the core allows for smooth and even color laydown, making blending and shading a breeze. The high-quality pigments ensure that colors are lightfast, meaning they won’t fade over time. This makes them perfect for professional artists as well as hobbyists who want their work to last.

The pencils' thick and robust leads resist cracking and chipping, adding to their durability during use and sharpening. However, some users may find the lead softness to be a bit too delicate for heavy-handed work, potentially causing breakage if too much pressure is applied. The ease of sharpening is generally good, but it's important to use a quality sharpener to avoid any issues.

Offering a solid mix of colors, the 36-count set provides a decent range for most artistic needs, though some users might prefer a larger set for more variety. These pencils are highly regarded in the art community, making them a great choice for anyone looking for quality and reliability in their coloring tools.