10 Best Soft Colored Pencils 2025 in the United States

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 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 Crayola Colored Pencils set features 36 vibrant and distinct colors, making it an excellent choice for kids and beginners in coloring. The pigment quality is bright and consistent, helping to create eye-catching artwork. These pencils are designed with a soft core that makes coloring smooth and enjoyable, though they might not be as creamy as professional-grade pencils.

The color range is sufficient for most basic art projects and school activities, providing a good variety for young artists to explore their creativity. Blendability is decent, allowing for some mixing of colors, though it may not be as seamless as more premium brands. The pencils are durable, with soft cores that resist breaking easily, making them suitable for frequent use by children. Additionally, they come presharpened, which is convenient for immediate use.

Sharpening these pencils is relatively easy and they maintain a fine point well. This set is ideal for kids, toddlers, and those looking for reliable and affordable colored pencils for everyday use, especially in educational and art projects. However, advanced artists might seek more specialized options for higher blendability and softer cores.