Looking for the best markers for coloring?
Just like my list of the top colored pencils, my list of the best markers for coloring is also quite small. While there are many marker brands in the world, in my opinion, there are only a few marker brands that are among the best.
The difference between a quality marker and a poor quality is quite apparent when testing them side by side. With a quality marker you are going to get higher quality ink that is easy to blend and marker tips that hold their shape.
A poor quality marker is going to give you the opposite. They can be frustrating, especially when trying to achieve the results you want. And we all know, coloring (or drawing/sketching) should not be frustrating.
Disclaimer: I may earn an affiliate commission from Amazon.com if you click on a link and purchase any of my books, or coloring supplies that I recommend. How cool is that?!
Best markers for coloring. Period.
Here are three brands that I consider to be the best markers for coloring. Overall, these very good markers and should make you a happy colorist.
A closer look
Let’s take a closer look at each set of markers and what to expect.
Copic Markers
These are the best markers for coloring. Period. They are used by artists and colorists of all types around the world.
These markers are exceptional in couple of ways. For one, Copic Markers use a quality permanent alcohol-based ink which blends very well and has a very faint odor. The ink mixes and dries on the surface so you don’t have to worry about soaking the paper you color on.
Secondly, they are refillable. You may spend more money up front to purchase these markers, but in the long run you will save money. Maybe even lot’s of it. Plus, refillable markers are better for the environment.
The only real drawback to these markers is the investment. But, if you have the money for them, I wouldn’t hesitate. Your coloring life will not only become more easy, but more fun as well.
These markers are even available in smaller sets of 12. To be honest, I would even consider a smaller set of these, instead of a bigger set of something else. They are that good.
Prismacolor Art Markers
If you cannot afford the steep price tag of Copic Markers, there is no need to fret. Prismacolor Art Markers are a high-quality alternative and you will pay much less for the same number of markers.
Prismacolor Art Markers come equipped with a fine tip on one end and a brush tip on the other. The safe alcohol-based ink applies rich saturated color smoothly.
In addition, the ink blends exceptionally well with little trace of odor.
In my opinion, Copic markers are the ‘Rolls Royce’ of markers and Prismacolor is the ‘Bentley.’ While I prefer the Rolls Royce. I’m not going to complain if I get the Bentley.
Tombow Dual Brush Art Markers
If you are looking for a quality marker, but don’t have the money for Copic or even Prismacolor, consider purchasing a set of Tombow Dual Brush Pen Art Markers.
These markers are equipped with a fine tip for consistent lines, and a durable nylon fiber brush tip that creates wider strokes depending on the amount of pressure is applied.
In addition, all tips are self-cleaning and the water-based ink is odorless.
Keep in mind, since Tombow uses a water-based ink, the quality of blending and coloring is not going to be a good or efficient as alcohol-based ink.
Final thoughts
If money was not an issue, I would go with Copic first and Prismacolor second. But, if you are working with a budget, Tombow Dual Brush Pen Art Markers will do the job.
Please feel free to share any marker brands that you feel are exceptional. I will defiantly take a look and consider adding them to my list if I find them deserving.