10 Best Mechanical Pencils 2025 in the United States

The BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils are a solid choice for anyone looking for reliable writing instruments, whether for school, work, or personal use. One of their standout qualities is the 0.7mm medium point, which strikes a good balance for various writing tasks, making them versatile for everyday use. Users will appreciate the smooth lead that doesn’t smudge, ensuring clean and professional writing every time. The included erasers are a practical touch, allowing for easy corrections without leaving messy marks behind.

Comfort is also addressed with these pencils, as they have a good grip that can make extended writing sessions more enjoyable. The build quality is satisfactory for a plastic pencil, giving it a lightweight feel, which is beneficial for portability. They are easy to use, as the retractable mechanism allows you to advance the lead with a simple click, eliminating the need for sharpening. Additionally, being No. 2 pencils makes them compatible with standardized testing, a plus for students.

The BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils offer a blend of convenience, comfort, and quality, making them great for students and professionals alike. However, those seeking a heavier-duty pencil or a bolder writing style might want to explore other options.

The Paper Mate Clearpoint Mechanical Pencils offer a variety of useful features that make them ideal for school and drawing purposes. These pencils use a 0.7mm lead size, which is a versatile choice for writing, drawing, and sketching. The HB #2 lead provides a balanced hardness, suitable for various writing and drawing tasks, creating clear and precise lines every time.

One of the standout features is the side lead advancement mechanism, which allows for easy lead loading without needing to release your grip, enhancing convenience and ease of use. The soft grip design significantly improves comfort, making it easier to write or draw for extended periods without hand fatigue. Additionally, the jumbo twist eraser is a practical feature that ensures clean and easy erasing, which is especially useful for students and artists who need to make frequent corrections.

The assorted barrel colors add a fun and personalized touch, which can be appealing to teens and younger users. However, the product has a couple of minor drawbacks. The pencils are described as having a 'broad' point type, which might not be preferred by users who need very fine and detailed lines. Also, while the soft grip is comfortable, it might wear out over time with heavy use.

The Paper Mate Handwriting Triangular Mechanical Pencil Set is specifically designed with children in mind, making it an excellent choice for young learners who are just starting to develop their writing skills. The thick 1.3mm lead minimizes breakage, which is ideal for kids who may apply more pressure while writing. The HB lead hardness is versatile, suitable for both writing and drawing tasks commonly encountered by students and young artists alike.

One of the standout features is the triangular shape of the pencils, which aids in guiding finger placement, promoting a proper grip that can help in building good handwriting habits early on. The contoured grip adds to the comfort, allowing for extended use without discomfort. The lead advancement mechanism is retractable, providing ease of use and additional safety for younger users. The vibrant, fun barrel colors add a playful element that can engage children and make writing more enjoyable.

However, these pencils might not be ideal for more advanced users or professionals who require a finer lead for detailed work, as the 1.3mm lead is quite thick. Additionally, the design focusing on younger users might not appeal to teens or adults looking for a more sophisticated appearance. While the build quality is generally good, the plastic materials may not be as durable as more premium options on the market. The set includes five triangle pencils, a lead refill set, and two erasers, providing good value for parents or educators looking to support multiple children. This product is best suited for elementary school students or early writers who need durable, comfortable, and easy-to-use pencils to help develop their writing skills.