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.

$4 at Amazon

Student essentials: Arteza #2 Wood Cased Graphite Pencils

These Arteza wood cased graphite pencils come pre-sharpened and finished in a satin matte coating for a more comfortable feel in your hand. Plus, they each include a smudge-free eraser that will leave your paper clean after removing a mistake.

$11 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.

$12 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.

$14 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.

$8 at Amazon

A pencil that lasts: The Infinity Pencil | The Sustainable and Eco-friendly Pencil

The Infinity Pencil was created to prevent further deforestation and is made quite differently than the other options on our list. Its replaceable tip means you can replace up to 200 traditional pencils. It's graded HB and slightly lighter than a #2 pencil.

$12 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.

We may earn a commission for purchases using our links. Learn more.