Choosing the best mechanical pencil for drawing boils down to 3 factors: graphite size, graphite hardness, and pencil materials. The graphite size should be small to bring out the details of your sketches or drawings. However, if you want larger, bolder lines, you’ll need wider graphite.
Soft graphite smudges easily and can be ideal if you require a tack-fine point for details. Soft graphite also produces fine lines that do not smudge or blur. The pencil construction should feel comfortable on the hand without causing fatigue or hand cramps. The body can be copper, stainless steel, or titanium for durability and luxury.
With these features in mind, we picked Pentel Twist-Erase III Mechanical Pencils as the best mechanical pencil for writing and sketching. They fit snugly between the fingers to provide apex control no matter the paper you write on.
Editor’s Pick: Mechanical Pencil for Drawing
Different Types of Pencils For Drawing?
Graphite Pencils
The most typical pencil is used in art and writing. No set of art is complete without them. They may seem basic, but the gradient blend of graphite and clay allows the painter to create expressive lines, draw realistic images, draw light guides, and much more with tremendous versatility.
Charcoal Pencil
Creates dark and rough lines but is not as versatile as the other options presented. Colored: Similar to regular graphite pencils, but in color.
Mechanical Pencil
Creates sharp lines and does not need sharpening. However, you cannot use the thick edge of a mechanical pencil to create bold marks (as you can with regular pencils).
Watercolor Pencils
Outwardly, they resemble ordinary ones, but they are made from pressed paint. It is easier to paint with them than directly with watercolors: they do not crumble, and mistakes can be easily corrected by washing them with water.
Colored Pencils
Colored pencils have long been a favorite drawing and coloring tool for children and adults. They are easy to use, do not require any special skills, and are affordable.
A simple pencil looks like a rod framed by wood. The composition of the rod itself is a mixture of graphite and a clay-like material. Depending on the proportions in which these two components are mixed, what shade the instrument will write depends.
Wax Pencils
These are predominantly the choice of young artists. This look was to the taste of caring parents, mainly because of its safe composition: natural wax and food coloring. They have a one-piece rod design while conveniently placed in the hand and not sticking to the skin. The line in such models is quite wide and dense, so they are extremely rarely used for sketching or drawing small details.
Plastic Pencils
These are a reasonably new look for this artistic accessory. Mostly, these pencils are purchased for children, since the days are very soft and bright. At the same time, they have an economical consumption and are easy to sharpen.
Top 10 Best Mechanical Pencils For Drawing- Buying Guide
1. Pentel Twist-Erase Mechanical Pencils
The Pentel Twist-Erase Mechanical Pencils are the best mechanical drawing pencils you can buy for any child or adult. They feature a soft free grip for a reliable writing tool you can use comfortably. The tapered barrel is easy to handle, and the tall eraser makes it simple to make corrections.
This set includes two Pentel Twist-Erase mechanical pencils with 0.7mm lead, which are refillable. Super Hi-Polymer lead is strong and doesn’t easily break with each mark so you can expect crisp lines and precise details from these mechanical pencils. The set is available in assorted colors to suit your preferences. These mechanical pencils are great for drafting and drawing activities at home or school.
Key Features:
Durable Lead
The lead is durable enough to withstand the pressure of writing and has an eraser for erasing mistakes.
Two 3.15″ High Lead Pencil
The product is equipped with two 3.15″ high lead pencil that switches between lead types as you write. The 12.5g eraser is refillable for multiple uses.
Retractable Tip And Comfortable Grip
The pencil also has a retractable tip that opens when not in use and prevents it from rolling off the desk or table. The pencil also has a comfortable grip to avoid cramping and hand fatigue when writing for long periods.
Swivel Mechanism
The swivel mechanism can be rotated to access the leads and rotate them to shade or draw lines of varying thickness.
Replacement Lead And Eraser
Replacement lead pencils can be purchased separately, and a replacement eraser is included with the pencil.
Pros:
- Sturdy lead withstands heavy use
- It comes with an eraser to erase mistakes
- Stylish design
- Affordable
- Comfortable grip
Cons:
- The swivel mechanism is prone to breakage if poorly maintained.
2. Mr. Pen-Metal Mechanical Pencil Set
Mr. Pen- Mechanical Pencil Set is a must-have for every student, teacher, and professional like architects and engineers. This set contains 5 pencils in 5 sizes; lead refills (HB) and eraser refills (10 pieces).
The minimalistic all-metal design gives it a professional look and comfortable grip while writing. It is an ideal drafting pencil set for general and technical writing needs. The set of 5 different sizes is suitable for everyday use, and art and technical drawing using rulers and templates. The Mr. Pen has a solid all-metal construction that lasts long even if dropped or thrown around.
Key Features:
Durability: The metal pencil is made of metal and has a strong lead that will not wear out with constant use. It feels good in the hand, and those who write a lot and for a long time will be happy with the durability of this pencil.
Design: This mechanical pencil from Mr. Pen can be inserted into the Case of your choice thanks to its color coding. It is lightweight and sturdy to the touch. The pencil stylus is made of high-quality material. The Case is partly made of plastic. The 2mm pencil may feel cheaper in hand than other pencils.
Grip: the model has a textured plastic grip. The soft, latex-free handle makes writing comfortable and fatigue-free.
Lead: This set of mechanical pencils comes with different lead diameters: 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, 0.9, and 2mm pencils with varying diameters of lead. Surprisingly, the set also includes a pack of spare lead for each Mr. Pen mechanical pencil. The 2mm pencils also have a built-in sharpener.
Pros:
- The metal body is sturdy and durable
- The retractable tip can be used as a traditional wooden pencil
- It comes with a sharpener and eraser
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
3. Rite in the Rain Weatherproof Mechanical Pencil
Rite in the Rain’s All-Weather Mechanical Pencil is a unique retractable pencil with a wide, knurled grip for wet or dry handling on the job site. The dark 1.3mm lead won’t snap at the tip or break in the shaft, and each pencil comes with one lead inside it.
This All-Weather Mechanical Pencil features a sturdy metal and resin barrel that survives through the toughest conditions. Each pencil also has an easy click advancement of the lead and an integrated pocket clip. Rite in the Rain has clean erasers (13ER) and leads (13BR) refill packs. But what makes it the best mechanical pencil for sketching is that the lead advances with a simple click and locks in place when fully extended.
Key Features:
Flexing Tip
The flexing tip protects the wick and prevents it from breaking. In addition, the special tip grip securely holds the lead, preventing it from wobbling and preventing ink buildup, which is very important when working outdoors.
Ergonomic Design
The ergonomic design of this thick mechanical pencil makes it comfortable to grip, comfortable to hold, and non-slip.
Waterproof Lead
The waterproof lead is available in bold graphite and red and is the best mechanical pencil visible in any weather and on any material.
Durable And Long-Lasting
The pencil is highly durable and long-lasting; its durable resin case not only fits in a pocket or toolbox but also withstands the harshest of outdoor conditions: Sun, wind, and rain.
Pros:
- Ease of use
- Ideal for general and technical applications
- High quality and affordable prices
- Clear and smooth writing
- Versatility and durability
Cons:
- Extra lead is stored under the eraser and can leak when the tip of the eraser pulls the pencil.
4. Zebra M-301 Stainless Steel Mechanical Pencil
A modern, streamlined look gives the M301 Mechanical Pencil a unique, eye-catching look. At the same time, its durable stainless steel barrel with black non-slip grip provides the ultimate in writing comfort and stability. Offering a 5mm standard lead point size, the Zebra M301 gives you the precision needed for carefully drawn lines, graphs, and illustrations.
Zebra mechanical pencils are easy to use and feature a shorter length that works well in shirt pockets or backpacks. The sturdy metal clip keeps your Zebra pencil securely in place, while the smooth rubber grip provides extra comfort and control. This set includes 12 refills in multiple colors, making it your best mechanical pencil for writing to fit your style and preferences.
Key Features:
Durable And Lightweight
These two pencils are made of stainless steel. Steel pencils are sleek and elegant-looking. In addition, this material is highly durable, making the pencils even more durable and refined. Zebra stainless steel mechanical pencils have an elongated shape. The M-301 is also lightweight and well-balanced.
Sturdy Metal Clip
It can be taken anywhere and is safe to use, thanks to the sturdy metal clip. The short length of the pencil also makes it easy to carry in your pocket. This pencil also has a tip that will improve your sketching skills.
Grip
It comes with a non-slip black grip. The handle has a textured surface and provides a comfortable feel. It also offers extra stability when working.
Lead
The pencils have a standard lead size of 0.5 mm. Pencils of this diameter provide comfortable and accurate writing. These mechanical pencils are also available in standard lead diameters of 0.7mm and 0.5mm, making them easy to refill. The set also includes a reusable eraser.
Pros:
- Made of high-quality stainless steel.
- Rugged metal clamp and tip.
- Ergonomic text grip.
- Easy core threading.
Cons:
- Very small eraser.
5. BIC Xtra-Sparkle Pencil
BIC Xtra-Sparkle Pencils come in fun colors and have a comfortable, ergonomic grip that helps make writing easier. The 2 mm lead is long-lasting and doesn’t smudge, so you can move from test to test without stopping to sharpen. The retractable design makes adding new lead easy and keeps your pencils safe.
BIC Xtra-Sparkle Pencils are built for standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and PSAT/NMSQT. They are washable and easy to clean with a quick swipe of the eraser on the end of the pencil. And at just $0.05 per pencil, they make the most professional mechanical pencils for a great value!
Key Features:
Design
Its use is not complicated. Thanks to its intuitive design and assembly. If you’ve ever seen a super flexible mechanical pencil, you should try this one too – super flexible and nice to use!
Durability
The durability of this product is one of the characteristics that most users like, and some users can use this product for many years.
Eraser
This mechanical pencil is one of the pencils with an eraser. Having an eraser on this mechanical pencil makes it very convenient for users to purchase this product to get an eraser.
Versatile
Students use it for sketching, drawing, and writing, and engineers and sketchers use it for drawing and writing.
Pros:
- Durability
- Does not smudge
- The best eraser on the market erases cleanly.
- Suitable for standardized tests.
Cons:
- Not suitable for office use
6. Paper Mate Mechanical Pencils
Never waste time sharpening and throwing away a dull pencil again. PAPER MATE® mechanical pencils now come in handy with No. 2 lead that is durable for multiple uses. They deliver crisp lines that resist smudging. The lead will stay sharp to prevent any smudging, and the rubberized grip makes sure you have a solid hold on your writing equipment.
You’ll be amazed at how much lead you get with Paper Mate Mechanical Pencils. And since the set comes in a 24-count box, you’re guaranteed never to run out of pencils. Whether you’re filling out forms, making lists, or catching up on work, there’s no better pencil to do it all.
Key Features:
Economical
This box contains 24 pencils that will last a long time when you need to use them. These pencils are relatively inexpensive, and because they last longer, you will indirectly save a lot of money.
Plastic Case
The packaging is colorful, and the pencils have a plastic case to protect them from rough use.
Erasers
All pencils have erasers at the tips. The box also includes two erasers and a separate large eraser, so there is no need to buy separate erasers. The eraser at the top is designed for instant erasure when writing.
12 lead Refill Barrels
12 lead refill barrels are also included for future use. So this is a complete package that will save you a lot of money.
Durable Lead
The 1.3mm wide wicks are strong enough to withstand the intense pressure of writing. So it won’t break over and over again and will last a relatively long time. A strong wick allows more force to be applied to write, increasing the intensity of the writing. The shape of the rod is triangular, making it easier to grip.
Pros:
- Easy to hold a triangular barrel
- Soft pen for long time writing
- A large eraser that expands to the tip
- Affordable
- Durable
Cons:
- Suitable for people with small hands
- Heavy
7. rOtring 1904444 600 Mechanical Pencil
The rOtring 600 is the classic among mechanical pencils. It features a timeless design of a bullet-shaped metal body and a hexagonal shape, making it a unique piece of writing equipment. This classic style is available in a variety of colors. They are also available with transparent barrels.
rOtring pencil in orange has been applied for a lifetime with its lead hardness indicator and brass mechanism. The pencils are delivered unsharpened for long-lasting performance. You’ll also find a lead hardness indicator that informs you about the grade of your lead, so you can decide whether you want to draw fine details or broader strokes.
Key Features:
Design
the model is a 0.7mm thick mechanical pencil made of brass and black. The design is sturdy and well-constructed. This Rotring 600 mechanical pencil is also well balanced, although it feels heavy. This means that it is not uncomfortable to hold for long periods. It also comes with a sturdy metal clip.
Grip
This mechanical pencil from Rotring has a legendary metal body. This design was implemented to improve ergonomics. The mechanical pencil has a hexagonal cross-section, so it won’t roll when placed on any surface. It also has a non-slip knurled handle.
Lead
The entire Rotring mechanical pencil is designed to hold the 0.7-millimeter lead accurately and firmly. Interestingly, the inner tube of the Rotring 600 contains a large number of spare leads. There is also a 2B to 4H wick indicator next to the clamp. This feature will be a great aid to your work.
Performance
The Rotring pencil is the right weapon for artistic cutting. Students, artists, and even mathematicians choose this mechanical pencil for its superior writing characteristics.
Pros:
- Advanced rOtring Pencil technology.
- High quality.
- Provides an ergonomic grip.
- 2-year limited warranty.
Cons:
- A bit costly
- A tip is prone to breakage.
8. Pilot Dr. Grip G-Spec Shaker Mechanical Pencil
Pilot Dr. Grip G-Spec Shaker Mechanical Pencil is a mechanical pencil that will never let you down. It doesn’t require pressure to reveal the lead, nor do you need to twist or press it like other mechanical artist pencils. It’s a great pencil for those who are into art and like to draw, sketch and paint.
This pencil has a 0.5 mm lead size and comes with a twist eraser. It comprises two pieces: the top half, which holds the lead, and the bottom, which acts as the grip. The top part is pulled out gently to reveal the lead. You can then position the lead over the pencil’s tip where it is ready for use.
Key Features:
Flexible And Reliable
Useful for students, coaches, designers, engineers, and many others. Its efficient design proves to be very reliable for everyday needs.
Durable And Lightweight
a well-made product with a platinum-colored metal cylinder withstands normal use. The blade does not break easily, lies perfectly in hand, and is lighter.
Lead Thickness
The 0.5mm lead thickness allows you to write clearly. It makes your papers, illustrations, and drawings clear and legible.
It is also easy to handle. The push-button mechanism eliminates the need to adjust the tip constantly. The padded handle provides comfortable operation. Also included are a steel pocket clip and an eraser for correcting mistakes.
Pros:
- Clear, legible handwriting
- Versatile and lightweight
- Made of durable materials
- Rugged metal clip
- Comfortable grip and ergonomic design
Cons:
- Bulky
9. Bellofy Mechanical Pencils Set
Bellofy mechanical pencils are perfect for drawing, sketching, writing, coloring, and more. These mechanical pencils have a 0.5mm, 0.7mm, and 0.9mm lead, respectively (with 12 refills for each), plus an extra 2B pencil for bolder strokes and an eraser.
And the set got you covered with the additional HB and 2H graphite lead holders with 6 refills each included in this set. Bellofy high-quality mechanical pencil offers a comfortable drafting pencil that is easy to use, so you can enjoy your sketching, drawing, and writing to their fullest potential. The product’s color may vary slightly because of the lighting during photography and the monitor’s display settings.
Key Features:
Three Different Lead Sizes
A combination of varying lead sizes allows the user to experiment with various line widths and styles to find the best set of pencils for any drawing, writing task, or for more creativity.
High-Quality Aluminum
Sharpenable pencils have attractive brass-colored metal sleeves, and pencils with graphite holders are available in silver, gold, and black.
Ergonomic
All pencils are ergonomically shaped and fit comfortably in hand. Thanks to non-slip pens, even long drawing or writing sessions don’t strain or tire you out.
Marked Lead Sizes
Each pencil has lead sizes marked on it, and each refill container is also marked so that the lead can be easily replaced if needed.
Built-In Erasers
These pencils have built-in erasers and two additional large erasers. Click at the top to advance the lead as needed.
Pros:
- Set of 2 large erasers
- Ergonomic design for a comfortable grip
- Ideal for drawing, designing, sketching, and writing
- Three different wick sizes
Cons:
- Pencil lead size labels are small and difficult to read
- No instructions for use on the package label
10. Nicpro 3 PCS Pastel Mechanical Pencil
The Nicpro 0.7mm mechanical pencil is the ideal tool to help you achieve various artistic effects. You can draw or sketch with it or use it to fill in areas of your drawings with short, fine strokes. It’s perfect for artists who like to work on intricate and detailed drawings or who are just getting started and want a little more precision than a regular pencil can provide.
Some of this pencil’s most impressive technical specifications include a 0.7mm lead diameter for precision drawing and candy color accents. You can also make your color combinations depending on the style or taste. The eraser is also another attractive feature of this pencil, as it is quite effective at erasing scribbles or notes.
Key Features:
Lightweight
Each pencil has a perfect weight distribution. They also have a metal clip that can be stored in your pocket and a retractable tip.
Grip
All pencils have a practical non-slip grip. The comfortable grip makes Nicpro mechanical pencil sets ideal for adults, children, and beginners.
Versatility
The Nicpro art pencil set is also compelling with all its additional tools. Sure, its performance isn’t the best, but it’s one of the best. The entire set is perfect for sketching, drawing, designing, writing – everything.
Performance
The 0.7mm mechanical pencil also has a sharpener in the cap for better performance.
Pros:
- Made of high-quality material
- Affordable
- Comfortable grip
- Versatile
Cons
- The pencils are thin
Best Mechanical Pencils – Buyer’s Guide
Before choosing the best mechanical pencil for drawing, there are many factors to consider because it takes a lot of knowledge to find the perfect pencil. Otherwise, the pencil can negatively affect your performance, and you won’t get the results you deserve for your talent and creativity. That’s why we’ve put together a buying guide to help you choose the best products.
Mechanism
There are many mechanisms for removing a lead from a pencil. The button pressing mechanism is the simplest and most intuitive of all types. The mechanisms are limited by the recovery process and how the lead is handled during use. This results in straight lines and marks when you use the pencil. That being said, it is best to look for mechanical pencils that use mechanisms that suit your needs and preferences.
Lead Size
Mechanical pencils use leads of different sizes. Each size of lead has a specific application. For example, most mechanical pencils are 0.5mm, the ideal lead size for everyday tasks other than drawing. On the other hand, if you are a clumsy user and want something perfect for bold writing and sketching, 0.7mm, 0.9mm, and thicker leads are a must. Conversely, 0.2 to 0.4 mm is ideal for excellent writing and detailed drawings.
In doing so, it is best to determine the size of the lead you need and take a mechanical pencil that is suitable for it.
Body Material
There are thousands of mechanical pencils, from mass-produced plastic to high-quality metal. However, depending on the material, the manufacturer sets a specific price. However, mechanical pencil cases made of stainless steel or metal are usually stronger and more durable.
On the other hand, some mechanical pencils made of plastic do not feel cheap in hand. These mechanical pencils are suitable for elementary school students.
Extended Capabilities:
The characteristics of mechanical pencils are specially designed to help you in your work. Therefore, the more functions a pencil has, the better. In addition to auto-rotating, you also get a knurled handle for better grip. Of course, each mechanical pencil model has its unique characteristics, so it’s best to test them one by one and choose the best one that reflects your preferences.
Lead Support
Given the nature of mechanical pencils, lead breakage is a common occurrence for anyone. However, with the right mechanical pencil design, this can be avoided. Most mechanical pencils now come with lead sleeves, but new features to consider if you need better support and protection for your leads. Not only does it have a bushing that automatically adjusts when there is too much side pressure, but the leash will retract when you push too hard vertically. With features like this, breaking leads seems impossible.
How To Choose a Mechanical Pencil?
There are many options on the market, and therefore here are some factors to consider when choosing the best mechanical pencil.
Diameter of The Lead
The first is the diameter of the lead you want to use. If you’re going to draw very thin lines, you will need 0.3mm wire. For writing and drawing, you will probably prefer the 0.5mm lead. Meanwhile, a thicker 0.7mm lead may be better for sketching and non-detailed drawings. Other sizes are also available for particular use.
The Hardness of The Lead
Another consideration is the hardness of the lead. A soft lead will be darker and more prone to smudging, while a hard lead will better leave light, thin lines. Softness is indicated by a number followed by a “B”; the higher the number, the softer the stroke. Hardness is indicated by a number followed by “H”; the higher the number, the harder the break. Finally, leads “F” and “HB” lie in the middle.
The Mechanism Is Used To Extend The Wire.
Also, think about the mechanism used to extend the wire. The three most common mechanisms are the button, which can be on the side or top of the pencil; twisting operation, which is more common in older models; and “shake up” in advance.
Grip
Some pencils have special features such as uneven texture to improve this and make your mechanical pencil more ergonomic.
How To Use a Mechanical Pencil?
Returning The Rod.
- Sometimes you need to put the refill back, either because you accidentally pushed out too much of the lead or because you’re done using the pencil and don’t want the tip to break.
- For mechanical pencils with a button and shaker, simply hold the button down and insert the refill back into the tip.
- For pivoting automatic pencils, twist the top or bottom of the barrel in the opposite direction of the twist that extends the lead. Some swivel pencils will retract the lead on their own when you do this, but with others, you will need to insert the lead back into the tip yourself after twisting.
Refueling With Lead
- Sooner or later, all the lead in the pencil will be used up, and you will need to fill in the pencil with new refills.
- The most important thing is to make sure that the rods you fill your pencil with are the same size as those that came with it. On many pencils, the lead size is printed directly on the body.
- If you use too thin refills, they will simply fall out of the tip of the pencil when you try to lengthen them. If you use too thick leads, they will get stuck inside the Case and clog it.
Installing The Rod
- Most push-button mechanical pencils are refueled in the same way:
- Remove the top cover or button. This can be the cap covering the eraser, the piece of plastic that the eraser is attached to, or the eraser itself. If the top button was the cover that protected the eraser, pull out the eraser as well.
- Add 3-5 leads to the pencil body. Don’t fill the pencil with all the rods that come in – it’s tempting, but you’ll end up with a jam.
- Put the eraser and top button back in place.
- Press the button until a new refill begins to emerge from the tip.
FAQ
What Is a Mechanical Pencil Used For?
Mechanical pencils are used for technical drawings and for drawing fast, clear lines of a certain width without sharpening. They are also used for drawing artwork. They are also popular with students because they do not need sharpening.
Why Are Mechanical Pencils Banned?
Yes, simply put, you cannot use a mechanical pencil on the SAT or ACT. This is because the answer form scanner is specifically designed to recognize marks made with No. 2 pencil, and mechanical pencils are not necessarily classified as no. 2
Is a Mechanical Pencil The Same As a Pen Pencil?
No. Mechanical pencils are usually made of plastic and have a feeding mechanism that pushes the graphite strip out of the end of the pencil. For pen pencil, is usually hollow and has a rubber stopper that serves as an eraser and retains excess graphite in the pencil body.
Why Are Mechanical Pencils So Good?
The advantage of mechanical pencils is that they fit well in hand and are easy to write with because their length does not change.
Are Mechanical Pencils Allowed In Exams?
You cannot use a mechanical pencil on the SAT or ACT. They are prohibited on most standardized tests. If you use a mechanical pencil on the ACT, your score may be affected.
Does The Artist Use Mechanical Pencils?
No matter what kind of drawing you are planning, a mechanical pencil is one of the essential tools you need to have on hand. Mechanical pencils are good because they are ideal for drawing fine lines… Mechanical pencils are preferred by artists and people working with details, especially in technical drawing.
Conclusion
The best mechanical pencil for drawing allows you to write more comfortably and efficiently, without making your hand tired even after long periods of writing.
When you need to work at an office or school, mechanical pencils help you save time. They save you from having to sharpen your pencils and buy new ones. However, finding the best one out of the many products on the market is not as easy as it seems
Regardless of the number of pencils or the price, we recommend that you choose something more appropriate for your job. They all come in great packaging and make great gifts for the office.