Professional colored pencil sets vary most in core feel, layering behavior, and how much of the color range you will actually use. Prismacolor Premier 150 is my best overall pick for artists who want a broad palette and soft, blendable cores; Faber-Castell Polychromos 24 suits artists who favor firmer oil-based pencils and controlled detail, while the Goldfaber 48 offers a smaller, more approachable Faber-Castell set. The tradeoff is between a large assortment for color choice and a focused set that is easier to manage and replenish. Read on for how all 15 options compare and which makes sense for your materials and working style.
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Key Takeaways
- Prismacolor Premier 150 leads for palette breadth and soft-core blending, while its large count may be more than a focused project needs.
- Polychromos 24 offers a compact artist-grade oil-based option; a smaller palette asks you to mix and layer more deliberately.
- Goldfaber 48 is the more accessible Faber-Castell route in this lineup, with more colors than the Polychromos tin but a different product tier.
- Several KALOUR and Castle Art sets offer high color counts, but count alone does not establish professional performance; core behavior and consistency matter more.
- Sets with sketchbooks, cases, blenders, or metallic pencils prioritize convenience and variety, while focused pencil-only tins better suit artists choosing around drawing performance.
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 24 Assorted Colors |  | Best Compact Professional Set | Count: 24 pencils | Colors: Assorted | Core: Soft, thick | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KALOUR Colored Pencils, 120-Color Set |  | Best Accessory Bundle | Pencil count: 120 | Color: Multicolor | Core: Soft, break-resistant | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Castle Art Supplies 120 Colored Pencils for Adults |  | Best for Organized Studio Work | Quantity: 120 colored pencils | Colors: Multicolor | Core: Soft, durable leads | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| TMOL 120 Pack Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books with Sketch Books and Zipper Case |  | Best Complete Drawing Kit | Item count: 120 pencils | Pencil type: Oil-based, soft core | Color: Multicolor | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 48 Count |  | Best Mid-Size Professional Palette | Type: Colored pencils | Count: 48 | Colors: Assorted | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Faber-Castell Goldfaber Colored Pencils, 48-Count Tin |  | Best for Reliable Everyday Drawing | Brand: Faber-Castell | Model: Goldfaber | Pencil count: 48 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Castle Art Supplies 72 Soft Core Colored Pencils for Adults |  | Best for Learning Layering Techniques | Pencil count: 72 | Core type: Soft core | Organization: Named, numbered, and color-coded by color family | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KALOUR 120-Color Soft-Core Colored Pencil Set |  | Best for Palette Breadth and Accessories | Brand: KALOUR | Color count: 120 | Core type: Soft core | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 150 Assorted Colors |  | Best for a Large, Blendable Palette | Pencil count: 150 | Core type: Soft | Lead size: 2 mm and above | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 80-Piece Oil-Based Colored Pencil Set for Adult Coloring and Art |  | Best Oil-Based Starter Set | Quantity: 80 pieces | Core type: Oil-based soft core | Target audience: Adults, teens, students, beginners, professionals | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KALOUR 180-Color Colored Pencil Set with 12 Metallic Pencils |  | Best for Metallic Range | Pencil count: 180 | Metallic pencils: 12 | Core: Soft, break-resistant | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| PRINA 120-Color Oil-Based Colored Pencils Set with Sketchbook |  | Best for Guided Practice | Brand: PRINA | Colored pencil count: 120 | Pencil type: Oil-based, soft core | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KALOUR Professional Colored Pencils, 240 Colors |  | Best for Maximum Color Range | Pencil count: 240 | Core: Soft, highly pigmented, break-resistant | Pencil material: Basswood | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KALOUR 120 Colored Pencils Set with Carry Case, Sketchbook, Blender, Sharpeners & Color Chart |  | Best All-in-One Carry Kit | Pencil count: 120 | Core type: Oil-based soft core | Sketchbook: 50 pages: 30 white, 10 black, 10 tan | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Faber-Castell Polychromos Artists’ Color Pencils – Tin of 24 Colors |  | Best Premium Precision Set | Brand: Faber-Castell | Model number: 110024 | Color count: 24 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 24 Assorted Colors
The 24-color Prismacolor Premier set suits artists who prioritize a blendable core over a large palette. Its soft, thick leads lay down saturated color for shading and layering, making it easier to build smooth transitions than with a harder core. Compared with the 48-count Prismacolor Premier, this tin takes less room and asks the buyer to choose colors more carefully; the smaller selection can limit nuanced work across varied subjects. The durable leads resist cracking and chipping, though a soft core will still need regular sharpening. Pencils arrive unsharpened, and the set is not water resistant, so it fits dry-media work best. I’d choose it for portability and core feel, not palette breadth.
Pros:- Soft, thick cores support smooth blending and layered shading
- Rich pigments produce saturated color
- Leads resist cracking and chipping
- Tin case keeps the compact set together
Cons:- 24 colors offer less range than the 48-count Prismacolor Premier set
- Pencils arrive unsharpened
- Not water resistant
Best for: Professional illustrators who want a compact, blendable set for focused palettes and dry-media work
Not ideal for: Artists who need many closely spaced hues for complex subjects or water-resistant color
- Count:24 pencils
- Colors:Assorted
- Core:Soft, thick
- Lead:Resists cracking and chipping
- Material:Wood
- Storage:Tin case
- Pencil condition:Unsharpened
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“Choose this set for Prismacolor’s soft, saturated laydown in a compact palette, provided 24 colors cover your work.”
KALOUR Colored Pencils, 120-Color Set
KALOUR’s 120-color set is aimed at artists who want a wide palette and basic tools in one package. The soft, pigmented cores support blending and layering, while the included blender pencil, white marker, and sharpener help cover common drawing tasks without sourcing each separately. A protective storage tube adds a portable option, though a 120-pencil collection still needs more space than the Prismacolor Premier 48-count tin. Color names and numbers make selection more manageable across the large range. The product data also identifies basswood construction and non-toxic materials that conform to ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3. This bundle favors breadth and convenience; artists who prefer a presentation tin or a smaller working palette may find the quantity cumbersome.
Pros:- 120 colors give room for varied subjects and tonal steps
- Soft cores support blending and layering
- Includes blender pencil, white marker, and sharpener
- Color names and numbers aid identification
Cons:- Large set takes more storage space than the Prismacolor Premier 48-count tin
- The broad selection can be cumbersome for artists who work with a small palette
Best for: Artists building a broad home studio palette who want blending and sharpening accessories included
Not ideal for: Travel sketchers with limited bag space or artists who need a compact, clearly tiered palette
- Pencil count:120
- Color:Multicolor
- Core:Soft, break-resistant
- Material:Basswood
- Included accessories:Blender pencil, white marker, sharpener, protective storage tube
- Safety:Non-toxic; conforms to ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3
- Line size:3.3 mm
- Hardness:Soft
Our verdict“Pick KALOUR when palette breadth and included drawing tools matter more than compact storage.”
Castle Art Supplies 120 Colored Pencils for Adults
Castle Art Supplies’ 120-pencil set puts color organization at the center of its appeal. Each pencil is named, numbered, and color-coded, and the three-layer presentation tin helps keep a large palette accessible during studio work. The soft, richly pigmented cores are designed for smooth coverage, blending, and layering, with leads that resist crumbling. Compared with the KALOUR 120-color set, which adds a blender, marker, sharpener, and storage tube, Castle Art Supplies focuses more on an ordered presentation and includes a fold-out drawing tutorial. That arrangement may be less convenient to carry than a compact case, so this set makes more sense at a desk than on the move. It offers palette breadth and structure, but still requires room for 120 pencils.
Pros:- 120 colors support broad palette choices
- Named, numbered, and color-coded pencils are easier to identify
- Soft cores support smooth coverage, blending, and layering
- Three-layer tin and fold-out drawing tutorial are included
Cons:- Three-layer presentation tin is less convenient to carry than a compact case
- Large set requires substantial storage space
Best for: Studio-based artists who want a large, clearly labeled palette arranged for quick color selection
Not ideal for: Artists who carry supplies daily or want a compact case and bundled drawing accessories
- Quantity:120 colored pencils
- Colors:Multicolor
- Core:Soft, durable leads
- Organization:Named, numbered, and color-coded
- Case:Three-layer presentation tin
- Material:Wood
- Line size:0.3 mm
- Included item:Fold-out drawing tutorial
Our verdict“Choose Castle Art Supplies for an organized studio palette, especially if labeled colors matter more than portability.”
TMOL 120 Pack Colored Pencils for Adult Coloring Books with Sketch Books and Zipper Case
TMOL’s 120-pencil kit is the broadest starting point here for someone who wants paper and pencils together. Its soft, oil-based cores are described as smooth for blending and layering, and color-matching barrels help identify shades. The three included books—a 3-tone sketchbook, classic sketchbook, and coloring book—give different surfaces and formats to work with, while the zipper case, sharpener, and color test sheet add practical support. Compared with the Castle Art Supplies 120 set, TMOL provides multiple books instead of a presentation tin and tutorial. That makes it more ready for varied activities, but the listed 1.5 kg weight makes it a substantial kit to carry. The product data describes non-toxic, ASTM D4236-certified materials; the large bundle may be unnecessary for artists who already have paper and tools.
Pros:- 120 shades provide a wide working palette
- Soft, oil-based cores are suited to blending and layering
- Three books support sketching and coloring in different formats
- Zipper case, sharpener, and color test sheet are included
Cons:- Listed weight of 1.5 kg makes the full kit cumbersome to carry
- Multiple included books and accessories may be redundant for artists with established supplies
Best for: Artists or coloring-book users who want pencils, several book formats, and basic accessories in one kit
Not ideal for: Traveling artists who need a lightweight pencil set or professionals who already have preferred paper and tools
- Item count:120 pencils
- Pencil type:Oil-based, soft core
- Color:Multicolor
- Included books:3 sketch and coloring books
- Other accessories:Sharpener, color test sheet
- Case:Zipper case
- Material safety:Non-toxic, ASTM D4236 certified
- Item weight:1.5 kg
Our verdict“TMOL is a practical all-in-one choice for artists who want a large palette and several books, as long as portability is secondary.”
Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 48 Count
The 48-count Prismacolor Premier set balances a more useful spread of colors with the brand’s soft, thick core. Richly pigmented leads lay down smoothly for blending, shading, and layering, and are described as resisting breaking and chipping. Compared with the 24-count Prismacolor Premier, the additional colors reduce how often artists must mix or substitute shades; the 120-color KALOUR set offers far more variety but takes up more room and brings a much larger collection to manage. The tin keeps this mid-size selection together, though its listed dimensions—9-3/4 × 8-1/8 × 7/8 inches—are not pocket-sized. Soft cores can wear down with use, so frequent sharpening is part of the tradeoff. This is a strong fit for artists who value core feel and a manageable palette over maximum range.
Pros:- 48 colors offer more variety than the 24-count Prismacolor set
- Soft, thick cores support blending, shading, and layering
- Rich pigments provide saturated color
- Tin case stores the set together
Cons:- Soft cores may wear down and require frequent sharpening
- Tin dimensions make it less compact than a small travel set
- Offers fewer color choices than 120-pencil sets such as KALOUR’s
Best for: Illustrators who want more color choices than a compact set offers while keeping a manageable dry-media palette
Not ideal for: Artists who need water-resistant pencils, a very small travel set, or the widest available color range
- Type:Colored pencils
- Count:48
- Colors:Assorted
- Core:Soft and thick
- Lead features:Resists breaking and chipping
- Case:Tin
- Tin dimensions:9-3/4 × 8-1/8 × 7/8 inches
- Origin:Made in USA
Our verdict“Choose the 48-count Prismacolor set for a versatile, mid-size palette with soft, blendable cores and a tin for storage.”
Faber-Castell Goldfaber Colored Pencils, 48-Count Tin
Goldfaber’s 3.3 mm bonded leads make this set a practical choice for artists who want dependable sharpening and color that resists smudging and water. Its 48 shades give you less room for subtle color matching than the Prismacolor Premier 150, but the smaller palette is easier to manage for sketching and focused projects. The reusable metal tin keeps the pencils together, while the break-resistant construction helps reduce interruptions from damaged cores. The tradeoff is that this set is described for students and hobby artists, so it offers less evidence of a professional-grade focus than the artist-oriented Prismacolor set. Choose Goldfaber for sturdy, controlled everyday work; skip it if a large palette or explicitly professional positioning is your priority.
Pros:- 48 vibrant colors cover a useful range for everyday drawing
- Bonded, break-resistant leads are designed to withstand sharpening
- Smudge-proof and water-resistant color laydown
- Reusable metal tin provides compact storage
Cons:- A 48-color palette offers fewer shade options than the 150-color Prismacolor Premier set
- Described for students and hobby artists rather than specifically for professional use
Best for: Students and hobby artists who want a manageable palette with durable, water-resistant pencils for sketching and drawing
Not ideal for: Professional artists who need a broad range of close color variations or a set specifically positioned for professional use
- Brand:Faber-Castell
- Model:Goldfaber
- Pencil count:48
- Lead diameter:3.3 mm
- Lead properties:Highly pigmented, smudge-proof, water-resistant, break-resistant
- Included storage:Reusable metal tin
- Recommended uses:Drawing, sketching, coloring
- Origin:Made in Germany
Our verdict“Choose Goldfaber for a durable, water-resistant everyday set; choose Prismacolor Premier 150 if palette breadth matters more.”
Castle Art Supplies 72 Soft Core Colored Pencils for Adults
Soft, richly pigmented cores make this 72-pencil set suited to artists who want to practice layering, blending, and burnishing across a broad palette. Compared with the 48-color Faber-Castell Goldfaber, it gives you more shades and a tutorial to help build technique, though Goldfaber’s leads are described as break-resistant and water-resistant. Castle Art organizes its pencils by named, numbered color families in a three-layer tin, which helps when selecting colors for a project. The cores are said to resist crumbling and hold their point, but soft leads can still need more frequent sharpening during detailed work. This is a learning-friendly middle ground; artists seeking the widest selection in this batch may prefer the 150-color Prismacolor set.
Pros:- 72 named, numbered colors support organized palette selection
- Soft cores are suited to layering, blending, and burnishing
- Three-layer tin sorts pencils by color family
- Fold-out tutorial offers technique guidance
Cons:- Soft cores may need frequent sharpening during detailed work
- The 72-color selection is narrower than the Prismacolor Premier 150 palette
Best for: Adult learners and developing artists who want a broad palette, organized storage, and a technique tutorial for practicing colored-pencil methods
Not ideal for: Artists who do frequent fine-detail work and want harder cores that need less frequent sharpening
- Pencil count:72
- Core type:Soft core
- Organization:Named, numbered, and color-coded by color family
- Packaging:Three-layer presentation tin
- Included learning aid:Fold-out colored pencil tutorial
- Suitable surfaces:Paper, eggshell, canvas, wood, and more
Our verdict“Pick Castle Art for an organized set that supports technique practice, and consider Prismacolor Premier 150 for more color choices.”
KALOUR 120-Color Soft-Core Colored Pencil Set
120 named, numbered colors give artists room to build nuanced palettes without stepping up to the 150-pencil Prismacolor Premier set. KALOUR adds a colorless blender, white gel pen, DIY color chart, and protective storage tube, making it a useful bundle for artists who want basic tools for swatching and finishing effects alongside their pencils. The soft, pigmented cores are aimed at smooth blending and layering, while the included chart helps you record how shades appear on your own paper. The listed information does not describe a full carrying case, and the pencils are not water-resistant, so they are less suited to travel or work that needs moisture resistance than Faber-Castell Goldfaber. The broad palette and accessories are the draw; the tradeoff is less detail about portable organization.
Pros:- 120 named and numbered colors offer broad palette coverage
- Soft cores are designed for blending and layering
- Colorless blender and white gel pen expand finishing options
- DIY color chart supports personal swatch planning
Cons:- Pencils are not water-resistant
- Storage is described as a protective tube rather than an organized carrying case
Best for: Artists building varied palettes who want a blender, white gel pen, and swatch chart included with their pencils
Not ideal for: Artists who need water-resistant color or a clearly described case with organized slots for carrying pencils
- Brand:KALOUR
- Color count:120
- Core type:Soft core
- Included components:120 pencils, colorless blender pencil, white gel pen, DIY color chart
- Material:Basswood
- Weight:1.9 pounds
- Dimensions:4.33 x 4.13 x 7.7 inches
- Safety standards:ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3
Our verdict“Choose KALOUR for a broad palette and useful accessories, but favor Goldfaber if water resistance is a priority.”
Prismacolor Premier Soft Core Colored Pencils, 150 Assorted Colors
150 soft-core pencils make this the broadest named palette in this batch, giving artists more room to choose close shades for blending, shading, and layered work than the 120-color KALOUR set. Its richly saturated pigments and blendable cores suit illustrations where smooth transitions matter. The pencils come pre-sharpened and are described as sharpening to a precise point, helping you move between broad coverage and finer marks. That soft core also demands care: the product notes warn that leads may crack or chip, so it is a less reassuring fit for rough handling than Faber-Castell Goldfaber, whose leads are designed to resist breakage. The storage case supports portability, though this set is heavier than the Goldfaber tin. Choose it when color range and soft blending outweigh handling concerns.
Pros:- 150 assorted colors provide the broadest palette among these five sets
- Soft cores support blending, shading, and layering
- Richly saturated pigments suit smooth color transitions
- Pre-sharpened pencils are described as sharpening to a precise point
Cons:- Soft leads may crack or chip and call for careful handling
- At 2.9 pounds, it is heavier than the compact Goldfaber tin
Best for: Illustrators and colored-pencil artists who need many closely related shades for blending, shading, and layered work
Not ideal for: Artists who handle pencils roughly or prioritize break-resistant leads over a large soft-core palette
- Pencil count:150
- Core type:Soft
- Lead size:2 mm and above
- Features:Blendable, pre-sharpened
- Material:Wood
- Weight:2.9 pounds
- Recommended uses:Coloring, sketching, shading, and art projects
- Warranty:2-year manufacturer warranty
Our verdict“Pick Prismacolor Premier 150 for maximum shade choice and blending range, provided you can handle soft leads carefully.”
80-Piece Oil-Based Colored Pencil Set for Adult Coloring and Art
Oil-based soft cores distinguish this 80-pencil set from the waxier-sounding soft-core options in the lineup, making it a candidate for artists who want saturated color and smooth shading in adult coloring, sketching, or illustration. It has fewer colors than Castle Art’s 72-pencil set only by a small margin, but Castle Art supplies a tutorial and a layered tin, while this set includes a blank swatch chart and gift box. Clearly marked names and numbers make color selection more straightforward; however, the provided details say less about lead durability and storage during regular studio use. The description also warns that soft cores may break more easily than harder ones. Consider it for a labeled, oil-based starter palette, but choose Goldfaber if break-resistant construction is a stronger priority.
Pros:- Oil-based soft cores are designed for saturated color and smooth blending
- 80 pencils provide a varied palette for shading and coloring
- Color names and numbers aid identification
- Blank swatch chart supports personalized palette planning
Cons:- Soft cores may break more easily than harder leads
- Gift box packaging does not specify organized pencil storage for regular use
Best for: Beginners, students, or adult colorists seeking a labeled oil-based set with a swatch chart for planning palettes
Not ideal for: Artists who need a specified durable lead construction or a storage case designed for frequent transport
- Quantity:80 pieces
- Core type:Oil-based soft core
- Target audience:Adults, teens, students, beginners, professionals
- Included accessory:Blank swatch chart
- Packaging:Gift box
- Pencil labeling:Color name and number marked on each pencil
Our verdict“Choose this set as an oil-based, labeled starter palette with a swatch chart, but look to Goldfaber for stated break resistance.”
KALOUR 180-Color Colored Pencil Set with 12 Metallic Pencils
The 180-color selection gives working artists plenty of hues for layered illustrations, while its 12 metallic pencils add accents that the KALOUR Professional 240 Colors set does not list. Soft cores are suited to blending and building color, and numbered names make it easier to return to a chosen shade. The tradeoff is that this set offers fewer standard colors than that 240-pencil KALOUR option, so artists who need the widest possible palette may prefer the larger set. Its tin and fitted tray help keep the collection sorted, though 180 pencils still take up more room than a compact working palette. The supplied data describes the cores as break-resistant but also soft, so careful sharpening and handling remain sensible.
Pros:- 180 colors provide broad coverage for illustration and coloring
- 12 metallic pencils add accent options absent from the listed 240-color KALOUR set
- Numbered color names make shades easier to identify and replace
- Tin case with built-in tray keeps pencils organized
Cons:- Fewer total colors than KALOUR Professional Colored Pencils, 240 Colors
- Soft cores call for care during sharpening and handling
- The large set may be excessive for simple or occasional coloring
Best for: Illustrators who want a broad working palette with metallic accents for highlights and decorative details
Not ideal for: Artists who need the largest possible range of standard colors or a small, lightweight travel set
- Pencil count:180
- Metallic pencils:12
- Core:Soft, break-resistant
- Core size:3 mm
- Pencil body:Basswood
- Case:Tin with built-in plastic tray
- Safety:Non-toxic; conforms to ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3
Our verdict“Choose this KALOUR set if metallic accents matter more to your work than having the 240-color set’s larger standard palette.”
PRINA 120-Color Oil-Based Colored Pencils Set with Sketchbook
PRINA pairs 120 oil-based pencils with a sketchbook and a step-by-step parrot tutorial, giving artists a ready-made way to move from choosing colors to trying a drawing. That makes it more structured than the KALOUR 180-Color set, which supplies a larger pencil selection but no listed lesson or sketchbook. The soft, thick cores are described as suitable for blending, layering, and shading, while a zipper case keeps the kit together. The included lesson has a narrow subject focus, however, so artists looking for varied instruction may soon outgrow it. Its 120 colors also make a smaller palette than either KALOUR set with 180 or 240 pencils. This is an approachable kit for skill-building, though professionals choosing mainly for the pencils may prefer a more focused set.
Pros:- 120 oil-based colors support a varied drawing palette
- Soft cores are described as suitable for blending, layering, and shading
- Sketchbook and step-by-step parrot tutorial give beginners a defined practice project
- Portable zipper case keeps the pencils and included materials together
Cons:- Tutorial focuses on a single subject, the parrot
- Smaller color selection than KALOUR’s 180- and 240-pencil sets
Best for: Developing artists who want a portable 120-color set plus a supplied sketchbook and a guided drawing exercise
Not ideal for: Experienced artists seeking the broadest palette or instruction covering multiple subjects and techniques
- Brand:PRINA
- Colored pencil count:120
- Pencil type:Oil-based, soft core
- Included components:120 colored pencils, three-color sketchbook, drawing tutorial
- Case:Portable zipper case
- Safety standards:ASTM D-4236 and EN71
- Model number:CP001
Our verdict“Pick PRINA if a sketchbook and guided practice are as useful to you as the 120-pencil palette.”
KALOUR Professional Colored Pencils, 240 Colors
With 240 named and numbered colors, this KALOUR set earns its place for artists who want many nearby shades on hand for gradients, detailed coloring, and layered work. Its palette is broader than the 180-color KALOUR set, which adds metallic pencils but supplies fewer total colors. The soft, highly pigmented cores are described as blendable and layerable; that combination suits artists who want to build color across a large range. A tin case with a built-in tray keeps the pencils grouped, and the labels help make a large collection manageable. The practical cost of that breadth is space: this is a lot of pencils to store and sort, and casual users may leave much of the palette untouched. As with the 180-color set, the soft cores merit careful handling.
Pros:- 240 colors give the broadest listed palette among these KALOUR sets
- Named and numbered pencils make shade selection easier
- Soft, highly pigmented cores are described as suitable for blending and layering
- Tin case with built-in tray organizes the collection
Cons:- The large collection needs substantial storage and sorting space
- Soft cores require care despite being described as break-resistant
- Does not list the metallic pencils included with KALOUR’s 180-color set
Best for: Illustrators and adult colorists who regularly use many distinct hues and want them labeled for quick selection
Not ideal for: Casual colorers, artists with limited storage, or anyone who would rather have metallic accents than maximum standard-color variety
- Pencil count:240
- Core:Soft, highly pigmented, break-resistant
- Pencil material:Basswood
- Organization:Tin case with built-in plastic tray
- Color identification:Named and numbered
- Safety standards:ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3
Our verdict“Choose this set if having 240 labeled colors matters more than compact storage or metallic accents.”
KALOUR 120 Colored Pencils Set with Carry Case, Sketchbook, Blender, Sharpeners & Color Chart
This KALOUR set is built around portable organization and accessories: its three-zipper case has a detachable shoulder strap, and the kit includes a sketchbook, blender pencil, sharpeners, chart, and tutorial. Compared with PRINA’s 120-color kit, it supplies a broader list of drawing tools and a 50-page sketchbook with white, black, and tan paper. The 120 oil-based soft-core pencils are described as smooth-laying and blendable, so the extras can support practice without requiring a separate accessory kit. The same additions create a bulkier load, which makes it less appealing for artists who carry only a small selection. Its 120 colors also trail the KALOUR 180- and 240-pencil sets for palette breadth. The product data notes that extended use can leave oily residue on hands.
Pros:- Three-zipper case with detachable shoulder strap supports carrying and organization
- 50-page sketchbook includes white, black, and tan paper
- Blender pencil, two sharpeners, chart, and tutorial add practical drawing tools
- Oil-based soft cores are described as smooth-laying and blendable
Cons:- Accessories make the package bulkier than a pencil-only set
- 120 colors are fewer than the KALOUR 180- and 240-pencil options
- Extended use may leave oily residue on hands
Best for: Artists who want a single organized kit for drawing sessions, including varied paper, a blender, and sharpening tools
Not ideal for: Artists who travel light, already own drawing accessories, or prioritize the largest possible pencil palette
- Pencil count:120
- Core type:Oil-based soft core
- Sketchbook:50 pages: 30 white, 10 black, 10 tan
- Carry case compartments:3 zipper compartments
- Case feature:Detachable shoulder strap
- Included accessories:Blender pencil, 2 sharpeners, color chart, drawing tutorial
Our verdict“Choose this kit if you want an accessory-rich, organized drawing setup and can accommodate its bulk.”
Faber-Castell Polychromos Artists’ Color Pencils – Tin of 24 Colors
Polychromos takes a different route from the large KALOUR sets: its 24 oil-based colors focus on artist-grade performance and precision rather than giving buyers hundreds of shades at once. The supplied description highlights lightfastness, water resistance, smudge resistance, and blendability, while the SV-bonded leads are designed to resist breakage. That makes this tin a more focused choice for controlled drawing and technical rendering than KALOUR Professional Colored Pencils, 240 Colors, whose appeal is its sheer color range. The smaller palette means artists may need to mix or add pencils for broader projects, and the product data notes that oil-based leads can be difficult to erase cleanly. It suits professionals who value dependable, durable leads and can build a palette gradually.
Pros:- Artist-grade pigments are described as having excellent lightfastness
- SV-bonded leads are designed for break resistance
- Oil-based leads are described as water-resistant, smudge-proof, and blendable
- Compact metal tin offers durable storage for a focused palette
Cons:- 24 colors provide much less range than the KALOUR 240-pencil set
- Oil-based leads can be difficult to erase cleanly
Best for: Professional artists and technical illustrators who prioritize lightfast, water-resistant pencils and precise marks over a large starter palette
Not ideal for: Artists who need many colors in one purchase or rely on easy erasing to revise drawings
- Brand:Faber-Castell
- Model number:110024
- Color count:24
- Lead diameter:3.8 mm
- Hardness:H
- Lead base:Hybrid (oil-based)
- Case:Metal tin
- Features:Break-resistant, smudge-proof, water-resistant, blendable, pre-sharpened
Our verdict“Choose Polychromos if professional-grade durability and precise, lasting marks matter more than a large color assortment.”
How We Picked
I compared the 15 sets by the factors that shape professional use: core type and firmness, suitability for layering and detail, assortment size, packaging, and how clearly the set serves a particular workflow. A large color count can reduce mixing, but it does not automatically make a set better for controlled drawing or reliable color planning. I also distinguished artist-focused pencil ranges from bundles whose appeal includes accessories, sketchbooks, or specialty colors.
The ranking gives more weight to a clearly differentiated drawing role and useful color performance than to accessory quantity. Prismacolor Premier 150 ranks first for artists seeking broad choice and soft blending; Polychromos 24 stands out for a compact, firmer-core approach, and Goldfaber 48 offers a middle ground within the same brand lineup. High-count KALOUR, Castle Art, TMOL, and PRINA options remain useful for palette breadth or bundled convenience, but buyers should weigh their specific materials and intended use rather than treating count as a quality ranking.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Colored Pencil Sets Professional
Choosing a professional set starts with how you draw, not with the number printed on the tin. These factors can help you match core behavior, palette size, and packaging to the work you actually make.
Choose Core Feel for Your Drawing Method
Soft cores deposit color readily and can make broad coverage and blending feel more direct. They can also wear down faster and make it harder to keep a fine point through long sessions. Firmer cores can support small marks, sharp edges, and repeated layering, though they may take more passes to build a saturated area. Think about whether your work relies on smooth blended passages or crisp details before picking a set. If you switch between both, consider whether you want one versatile set or separate pencils for broad color and detail work. A product label alone cannot tell you how a pencil will behave on your chosen paper, so a small trial set can be useful when available.
Buy for Palette Use, Not the Largest Number
A broad assortment gives you ready-made color choices and can reduce the need to mix every shade. It also takes more space to store and can make color selection slower if many pencils are close in hue. A compact set encourages planning and layering, which may suit a limited palette or travel kit. Before choosing a high-count set, ask whether its added colors expand your work or mainly duplicate shades you rarely use. For portraits, landscapes, and illustration, a balanced spread of lights, darks, and useful neutrals can matter more than a headline count. If you already own pencils, compare the new assortment with your current colors to avoid buying overlap.
Treat Oil-Based and Wax-Based Labels as a Starting Point
Oil-based and wax-based descriptions can suggest differences in feel, but the label alone does not predict every aspect of performance. Core firmness, pigment load, paper texture, and pressure all affect how a pencil lays down color. Artists who prioritize fine detail may prefer a harder-feeling pencil, while those building smooth, saturated layers may favor a softer one. Avoid assuming that one core type is universally superior or that products labeled similarly will feel identical. If layering is central to your technique, check whether the manufacturer provides meaningful information about lightfastness and compatibility with your paper. When those details are missing, judge the set by the information that is available and buy a smaller assortment before committing to a large collection.
Check Lightfastness for Artwork That Must Last
For original work intended for display or sale, lightfastness can matter as much as color range. A color that shifts under prolonged light can change the look of a finished piece after it leaves your studio. Look for color-specific lightfastness information rather than relying on the word professional on a package. If the set does not provide clear ratings, reserve it for studies, sketchbooks, or work that will be kept away from strong light. You can also scan or photograph finished art, but a digital record does not preserve the original surface. Make archival requirements part of your decision before paying for a large assortment.
Match the Set to Your Paper and Sharpening Routine
Tooth, weight, and surface sizing affect how many layers paper can accept and how a pencil transfers color. A soft core on smooth paper may feel very different from the same pencil on textured paper. Test the paper you use most often before deciding that a set is too waxy, too hard, or difficult to blend. Sharpening also shapes the experience: a delicate core may need a reliable sharpener and careful handling, while a firm core can hold a point longer. Bundled sharpeners are convenient, but they may not suit every pencil or drawing style. Include replacement blades and pencil breakage in your studio planning, especially if you work with a soft-core set every day.
Pay for Accessories Only When They Fit Your Workflow
A case, sketchbook, color chart, or blender can make a bundle easier to carry and organize. Those extras have less value if you already own a preferred case or use paper chosen for a specific technique. A color chart is most useful when you make your own swatches, since the result shows how pencils appear on your actual paper. Check whether the case holds pencils securely and lets you identify colors quickly; a high count can become cumbersome if access is awkward. For studio work, pencil quality and refill availability may matter more than portability. For classes or travel, the convenience of an all-in-one kit may justify choosing a bundle over a pencil-only tin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which set in this roundup makes the strongest all-around choice for professional colored pencil work?
Prismacolor Premier 150 is my all-around choice for artists who value a wide color range and soft, blendable cores. It can reduce time spent mixing shades, particularly for work that uses broad areas of color. Its large assortment takes more space and may include colors you rarely reach for. If precise detail and a firmer core matter more to you, the Polychromos 24 may be a better fit despite its smaller palette. The best match depends on whether you prioritize immediate color choice or controlled layering.
Should I choose Prismacolor Premier or Faber-Castell Polychromos?
Start with the surface and marks you want to make. Prismacolor Premier is the soft-core choice in this lineup, suited to artists who want color to build readily and blend smoothly. Polychromos is the firmer, oil-based option here, which may appeal to artists who value sharper marks and controlled layers. Neither choice guarantees a particular result on every paper, so try the pencils on the stock you use most. If you want a larger palette in the Faber-Castell lineup, Goldfaber 48 offers more colors than the Polychromos 24 tin, though the ranges serve different product tiers.
Are 120- or 240-color sets a better choice for professional work?
A large assortment can save time when your work calls for many ready-made hues, but the count by itself says little about core consistency or archival information. The KALOUR 240 and several 120-color sets emphasize palette breadth, while compact artist-focused tins make a different tradeoff. Consider how often you use subtle neighboring shades and whether you have room to store and sort a large set. If you are still developing a palette, a smaller set may help you learn to mix and layer without managing many similar colors. Check the manufacturer’s product details for lightfastness and replacement availability before making a large set your main studio collection.
Can a bundled set with a sketchbook and case replace a separate professional pencil collection?
Bundles such as the TMOL and PRINA sets can be convenient when you need pencils and basic accessories together. Their sketchbooks and cases do not by themselves establish the pencils’ suitability for sustained professional work. Artists who already have preferred paper, storage, and sharpeners may get less value from those extras than from a focused pencil set. Check the paper’s surface and the pencil details against your technique before relying on the bundled materials for finished pieces. A bundle can be a practical portable kit, while a dedicated artist range may be a more deliberate choice for studio work.
What should I check before using a colored pencil set for artwork I plan to sell?
Look for color-specific lightfastness information, since different colors within one range may not have the same resistance to fading. Check that the set suits your paper and layering method, then make swatches under the conditions you plan to use. Keep notes on color names or numbers so you can reproduce a palette when replacing pencils. Ask whether individual colors or smaller refills are available, especially if you rely on a few shades heavily. If a manufacturer gives little archival information, use that set for studies or work that will not be displayed in strong light.
Conclusion
For a single set that covers a broad range of work, I recommend Prismacolor Premier 150 as the best overall choice for palette breadth and soft blending. Polychromos 24 is my best premium pick for artists who prefer a compact, firmer oil-based set and controlled marks, while Goldfaber 48 suits buyers seeking a broader color selection in a more approachable Faber-Castell range. For beginners who want many colors at once, a KALOUR or Castle Art high-count set offers range, though new artists should compare core details and lightfastness before making it their main collection. Choose the TMOL, PRINA, or accessory-rich KALOUR bundle when portability and included supplies matter most. Your best match comes down to whether your work needs blendable coverage, fine control, a wide ready-to-use palette, or a compact kit.
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