10 Best Writing Pencils 2025 in the United States

The BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils are a solid choice for everyday writing activities, particularly in school or office settings. The pencils feature a versatile 0.7mm medium point, making them suitable for a wide range of writing tasks. The hardness grade is HB, which is ideal for standardized tests and general writing, ensuring that the lead is not too soft or too hard. Users will appreciate that these pencils do not need sharpening; the lead advances with a simple click, providing convenience and ease of use.

The high-quality lead is designed to be smudge-resistant and erases cleanly, which helps keep your work tidy and professional-looking. The included erasers are built-in and functional, although they might not be the highest quality available, they get the job done for most basic erasing needs. The ribbed grip offers some comfort during extended writing sessions, though it may not be as cushioned or ergonomic as other higher-end pencils.

The pencils are made of plastic, which keeps them lightweight but might not appeal to users looking for a more premium feel. With a 40-count pack, these pencils are great for bulk use, ensuring that you always have a pencil on hand when needed. The BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils provide a reliable and economical option for students and professionals alike.

The Ticonderoga Wood-Cased Pencils offer a reliable option for those in need of high-quality writing tools. The product features a proprietary #2 graphite formula, ensuring smooth and consistent performance. The pencils have a broad lead diameter of 2mm, providing bold, clear lines suitable for various writing tasks. Crafted from responsibly managed wood sources, these pencils are designed to sharpen evenly with minimal breakage, which is a significant advantage for users who frequently sharpen their pencils.

The pencils are pre-sharpened, saving users time and effort right out of the box. The latex-free eraser is another standout feature, as it effectively removes marks without smudging, making corrections clean and easy. Additionally, the eraser is securely attached with the signature green and gold ferrules, adding to the durability of the pencils.

However, while the pencils are described as having a 'thumb grip', they lack an ergonomic grip design, which might be less comfortable for extended use. This could be a drawback for users who require extensive writing or drawing sessions. These pencils are suitable for both kids and adults, making them versatile for various tasks, including schoolwork, office use, and general writing needs. The Ticonderoga Wood-Cased Pencils excel in durability, writing smoothness, and eraser quality, though they might fall short in grip comfort during prolonged use.

The Ticonderoga My First Short Triangular Wood-Cased Pencils are designed with young students in mind. These pencils have a shorter length of 4.5 inches, making them easier for small hands to control, which is particularly beneficial for early learners. The triangular, oversized shape promotes a natural and correct grip, which is essential for developing handwriting skills. The #2 HB soft graphite lead is of high quality, with a wider diameter of 3.6mm that minimizes the risk of breakage and ensures smooth writing.

The wood used is responsibly sourced, which adds an environmental benefit to the product. Additionally, the latex-free eraser is safe for kids and allows for clean, smudge-free corrections. The ergonomic design, combined with the high-quality materials, makes these pencils comfortable to use for both children and adults who need a steady grip.

However, the bright yellow color might not appeal to everyone, and the broad point type may not be suitable for detailed work or those who prefer finer lines. Ideal for young students and those in the early stages of writing, the Ticonderoga My First Short Triangular Wood-Cased Pencils effectively meet the key needs of this category.