Best Pencils Thrifter 2020

Picking the perfect pencil isn't as simple as you might think. Sure, it's easy enough to keep pencils sharp and ready for use, but depending on the make of the pencil you choose, you could be running to your pencil sharpener more often than you're focusing on the task at hand. Whether you're an artist, a student, a teacher, or just someone who loves to stay prepared, the list below is full of options worthy of a place in your pencil case.

This #2 is #1: Ticonderoga Wood-Cased Graphite #2 Pencils

Staff Pick

Ticonderoga's #2 Graphite Pencils are made with premium wood and feature a sleek black finish that makes them look quite dapper in comparison to traditional models. Plus, they're each topped off with a quality latex-free eraser that will leave your pages smudge-free.

$3.99 at Amazon

A classic reborn: Palomino Blackwing 602

The original Blackwing was first designed way back in the 1930s, and since then it's been developed into one of the best pencils around. Perfect for both professional and everyday use, these pencils offer a very sharp tip that won't require excessive sharpening.

$24.95 at Amazon

The world's best?: Ticonderoga Wood-Cased #2 Pencils (Pre-Sharpened)

These Ticonderoga pencils are nicknamed "The World's Best Pencils", and that's certainly a worthy arguement to be made. They come pre-sharpened and feature a #2 graphite formula for extra smooth performance.

$11.99 at Amazon

Full metal jacket: rOtring 600 Black Barrel Mechanical Pencil

Tired of having to grab a new pencil every so often? The rOtring 600 mechanical pencil was designed to last a lifetime with a full metal body and a brass mechanism that allows you to precisely push up lead as needed. Plus, with its hexagonal shape, you never have to worry about it rolling off your desk.

$18.78 at Amazon

Sharp as a Staedtler: Staedtler Norica #2 Wood-cased Pencils

Staedtler's #2 graphite pencils have slowly made a name for themselves over the years thanks to their sleek design, smooth dark lead, and wood that doesn't splinter when the tip is being sharpened.

$15.99 at Amazon

The cedar choice: General Pencil Company Cedar Pointe #2 Pencils

The Cedar Pointe #2 pencils are unique in that they're made from top quality California incense cedar. They're also much better at maintaining their point compared to traditional pencils, so you won't have to sharpen quite as much.

$9.95 at Amazon

Here's the point

Depending on the ways you put your pencils to use, some may be more appropriate than others. While Ticonderoga's are perfect for at-home use or in the classroom, a pick like the rOtring 600 Mechanical Pencil isn't necessarily one you would want to hand over to younger children. Not only is it one of the more expensive models, but it's built to last and offers a premium build that could make older users feel like they made the right choice.

Meanwhile, the Ticonderoga Wood-Cased Graphite #2 Pencils are really perfect for anyone to use — which is why they're our favorite on the list. These #2 graphite pencils offer extra smooth performance and are designed with a sleek black finish, though they're encased in wood rather than metal as the mechanical pencil above is. And of course, there's a handy latex-free eraser on the bottom of each one that will leave your paper looking clean and smudge-free.

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