Struggling to find the best mechanical pencil? Look no further because I have enlisted the 7 best mechanical pencils in 2023 and demonstrated why these are the best mechanical pencils.
Although, we depend on smartphones or laptops the most for our daily activities. An excellent mechanical pencil never goes out of style. Mechanical pencils are appreciated for their convenience, portability, and aesthetics.
So, without further ado, let’s get to the 7 best mechanical pencils reviews.
Our Top Picks
Uni-ball KuruToga wins the title of the best mechanical pencil. It is a well-engineered mechanical pencil that lives up to the expectation. The advanced rotation makes the lead sharp, which is super convenient and praise-worthy. However, the other two were also great and had unique features to be on the list of our best mechanical pencils!
| Zebra DelGuard Best Heavy Handed  BUY NOW | rOtring 800 Best Looking  BUY NOW |
7 Best Mechanical Pencils in 2023 for Creatives
To save you the time and effort of evaluating a large number of mechanical pencils, we’ve surfed through the deepest, darkest corner of the internet. We researched from our end and combined cult classics and best-performed pencils to prepare this definitive list of the best mechanical pencils.
In this section, I have chosen these mechanical pencils based on performance, customer reviews, expert suggestions, specifications, and documentation. I have picked these pencils from a variety of ranges. Thus, no matter what your occupation or desired pencil is, you’ll definitely find the one suitable for you.
| Best For | Brand | Price |
| Best for Use | Uni-ball KuruToga Mechanical Pencil | BUY NOW |
| Best Value | Pentel Drafting Mechanical Pencil | BUY NOW |
| Best Shaker Pencil | Tom bow mono graph Shaker Mechanical Pencil | BUY NOW |
| Best Overall | Zebra DelGuard Mechanical Pencil | BUY NOW |
| Best Budget Friendly | BIC Xtra Strong Thick Lead Mechanical Pencil | BUY NOW |
| Best For Gift | Alvin Draft Matic Mechanical Pencil | BUY NOW |
| Best luxurious | rOtring 800 Retractable Mechanical Pencil | BUY NOW |
1. Uni-ball KuruToga Mechanical Pencil
Do you ever get annoyed at blunt tips and wish that you could always get crisp, sharp edges? Well, in that case, the Uni-ball kuru toga is the best mechanical pencil for you. The uni-ball kuru toga is the most advanced mechanical pencil available on the market.
It has an advanced rotation mechanism that rotates in one direction and locks in the other. The outcome of this combination is that you get a new edge every time you are writing. This lead is constantly rotating as you write, thus it won’t get blunt. This is the best mechanical pencil for sketching or drawing.
The tip will always remain sharp. Other than this feature, this mechanical pencil is well made and has extra lead for a refill. This pencil is perfect for both writing and drawing. Hence, it is universally loved.
However, there is one downside to this pencil. This mechanical pencil is not the best one if you write in cursive letters. Other than that, this is one of the best mechanical pencils on the market.
Customers rating – 4.6 out of 5
Specifications
- Brand – Uni-ball
- Age Range – Adult
- Material – plastic
- Point Type – 0.5mm
- Item Weight – 0.64
- Product Dimensions – (0.63x 3.75x 7.63 inches )
- Grip Type – Contoured
- Pencil Lead Degree – HB
- Point Type – .5mm
- Line Size – 0.5m
Key features
- Always provides a precise, smooth writing experience
- Rotating lead mechanism to keep the pencil sharp and prevent breakage
- Exclusive diamond-infused #2 lead for dark lines
- Replaceable eraser
- Includes: a 0.5mm mechanical pencil, 12 #2 lead refills, and 2 extra erasers
Pros
- Always a new edge
- Comes with extra erasers and lead
- Creates dark, sharp lines
Cons
- To make the rotation happen, you should constantly lift and press.
2. Pentel Drafting Mechanical Pencil
Pental drafting mechanical pencil is the sleekest pencil out of all. It has a sleek, black polished interior that will make you fall for it. Apart from being a good-looking mechanical pencil, it works great too!
This is a professional quality mechanical pencil. Pental drafting mechanical pencil is perfect for drawing or drafting since it doesn’t wobble. It is sturdy, it won’t interrupt the scale while drawing. It has a great grip which is appreciated by many.
Another important feature is that it has the lead size written underneath. While there are positive aspects, there are negative sides too. There is a possibility that the pencil will be damaged while shipping.
In that case, customers should get a refund or another pencil. But this mechanical pencil does not have a return policy.
Customers rating – 4.6 out of 5
Specifications
- Brand – Pental
- Age Range – Adult
- Material – Rubber
- Unit Count – 1 Count
- Item Dimensions (LxWxH) – (5.71 x 0.35 x 0.39 inches )
- Item Weight – 0.384 ounces
- Line size – 0.5 millimeter
Key features
- Professional Quality Drafting Pencil
- Rubber Grip
- Lead Hardness Indicator Window
Pros
- Does not wobble
- Great grip
- Sturdy
- Has lead size engraved on the bottom
Cons
- No return policy.
3. Tom bow mono graph Shaker Mechanical Pencil
Tom bow mono graph pencil is a well-engineered, affordable mechanical pencil. It is convenient, has a good weight, is fun to use, and saves time. Now you must be wondering, how does a mechanical pencil save time?
I thought that too. Then let me get to the educational part now. It does work like any other mechanical pencil, but instead of twisting or retracting the lead, you can shake it and write it.
It comes with a push button. When you need extra lead, then you can push the button, shake the pencil and push the button again to lock the lead in place.
This way you can travel with your pencil and you won’t even have to worry about lead breakage or pencil stain. This pencil comes with an extra lead.
The eraser is top-notch. Not many mechanical pencils come with a good eraser but the Tom bow mono graph pencil eraser is exceptional quality and refillable!
Customers review – 4.7 out of 5
Specifications
- Brand – Tombow
- Color – Mono Pattern
- Ink Color – Black
- Age Range – Adult
- Unit Count – 1.0 Count
- Line Size -0.5 mm
- Closure – Twist
- Item Weight – 0.352 ounces
- Product Dimensions – (6.2 x 0.6 x 1.3 inches )
Key Features
- Mechanical Pencil + holder eraser “Tombow mono”
- The core diameter is 0.5mm.
- The core appears when you shake vertically pen “fure Knock” Deployment.
- Turn the black RING at the top for the eraser.
- Eraser refill is manufacturer-mg
Pros
- Extendable erasers
- Saves time
- Great engineering
- Affordable
Cons
- Hard grip
4. Zebra DelGuard Mechanical Pencil
Zebra DelGuard is the best mechanical pencil for heavy-handed writers. Out of all the pencils we selected, this one really stood out. It is made of plastic and metal.
The body is made of plastic, and the point and lead are made of metal. This pencil is really sturdy, thus I called it the best mechanical pencil for heavy-handed writers.
Now if you are a heavy-handed writer, you would know that most mechanical pencils don’t survive a firm press whereas this one will, and Zebra DelGaurd mechanical pencil works with a smart mechanism.
If you press it firmly at an angle, it will not break. Instead, the press makes the sleeve tip extend, which saves the lead from any breakage. Likewise, if you press it vertically, it will retract back inside. This combination makes the mechanical pencil almost unbreakable.
Customers rating – 4.7 out of 5
Specifications
- Brand – ZEBRA
- Color – Black
- Ink Color – Black
- Age Range – Teens older
- Material – Plastic
- Item Dimension – (0.41 x 5.41 x 0.41 inches)
- Item Weight – 0.32 ounces
- Closure – Retractable
- Grip Type – Ribbed
- Line size – 0.5 Millimeters
- Point Type – Fine
Key Features
- Pilot Mechanical Pencil DelGuard
- Lead Break Protection, DelGuard System
- 0.5mm Lead
Pros
- Lightweight
- Well made
- Grand design
- Decent grip
Cons
- The lead will break if you retract the lead more than three times.
5. BIC Xtra Strong Thick Lead Mechanical Pencil
BIC Xtra-Strong Mechanical Pencil is the best mechanical pencil at its price point. This pencil has all the qualities that a good mechanical pencil should have. It is well-made, lightweight, comfortable, and affordable.
If you are a beginner trying to get the hook around a mechanical pencil, then you should definitely start with this one. A lot of people started their mechanical pencil journey with this pencil. Thus, it is the most popular mechanical pencil, too.
As the name says, it is a thick, dark pencil that is perfect for writing. With all these good things being said if you ask me what I dislike about this pencil. Then I would say the lead because it breaks quite easily.
Other than that, BIC Xtra-Strong Mechanical Pencil is a great mechanical pencil and you can see by the rating that it is beloved by people!
Customers rating – 4.8 out of 5
Specifications
- Brand – BIC
- Color – Assorted
- Ink Color– Black
- Age Range– Adult
- Material – Plastic/Graphite/Rubber
- Closure – Retractable
- Grip Type – Contoured
- Pencil Lead Hardness – HB
- Size – 24 Count (packet of 1)
- Point Type – Thick
- Line Size – 0.9 mm
Key features
- Strong Mechanical Pencils With Erasers
- Thick lead mechanical pencil offers dependable performance with break-resistant 0.9mm lead
- Quick lead advancement
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Manageable
Cons
- Lead breaks easily
6. Alvin Draft Matic Mechanical Pencil
Alvin draft Matic mechanical pencil is the best luxurious mechanical pencil that doesn’t leave a hole in your pocket.
This pencil has a balanced weight, is well-engineered, has a good lead, and has a comfortable grip. Pretty much everything you are looking for in the best mechanical pencil.
This pencil is designed in a way that you can do geometry without any issues. Meaning, that when you are drawing lines with a ruler, the ruler will not interrupt the lead. Even while taking notes and drawing, this pencil remains flawless.
The weight is perfect for the Alvin draft Matic mechanical pencil. Since it is a luxurious pencil, it has a balanced weight. It is heavy but not too heavy. Thus, it is a multipurpose pencil.
Customers review- 4.7 out of 5
Specifications
- Brand – Alvin
- Color – Metallic
- Ink Color – Black
- Age Range – Adult
- Material – Stainless steel, Alloy steel, Leather
- Item weight – 0.48 ounces
- Product Dimensions ( 0.25 x 6 x 0.25 inches )
- Grip Type – Knurled
- Size – 1 Count
- Line Size – 0.5 mm
Key Features
- Ease and Efficiency – Knurled stainless steel finger grips for very low or high grip preferences, rotating lead degree windows, and cushion points to make writing control comfortably balanced.
- Durable Build – It is a heavy-duty durable pencil.
- Tough Lead – The leads are premium and can resist breakage.
- Multipurpose Pencil – Designed for use by professionals and students alike this pencil creates a superior experience for a myriad of projects including drafting, engineering geometry drawing, and taking notes.
- Leather Storage Pouch – The set comes with a stitched, black leather pencil pouch so you can avoid losing them.
Price – $19.00
Pros
- Balanced writing
- Good grip
- The good weight gives the luxurious experience
- Little to no lead breakage
Cons
- It is hard to change the lead.
7. rOtring 800 Retractable Mechanical Pencil
If you are a mechanical pencil enthusiast, then you already know the hype about rOtring mechanical pencils. We researched every pencil from the rOtring series. We noted all the pros and cons of each pencil.
Then we came to the conclusion that the rOtring 800 is the best mechanical pencil in this series. rOtring 800 is a luxurious mechanical pencil. It is classy and well-engineered. Not to mention that the lead is strong and smooth.
This mechanical pencil has a retractable tip. Just twist the pencil and the lead will go back inside. This mechanism protects the lead from breaking. You can lock the lead in place using the push button.
This way, you have control over the pencil. This pencil costs $53. Considering the amount, it is an investment. So, if you are going to invest in a high-end mechanical pencil. Then, the rOtring 800 retractable mechanical pencil is the best mechanical pencil for you.
Customers review – 4.7 out of 5
Specifications
- Brand – Rotring
- Color – Black
- Ink Color – Black
- Age Range – kid, teen, adult
- Material – Plastic
- Item Weight – 1.12 ounces
- Product Dimensions – (6.69 x 6.1 x 1.1 inches )
- Closure – Retractable, Twist
- Grip Type – Knurled
- Size – 1 count
- Line Size – 0.5mm
Key Features
- Unique “Twist and Click” mechanism to retract the entire lead and sleeve for durability and pocket-safety
- An ideal balance of weight and feeling. hexagonal barrel to ensure fatigue-free writing and drawing.
- Hexagonal shape to prevent sliding on tilted tables Design, pattern, and size of metallic grip zone enable working for long hours without slipping
Pros
- Break-free lead
- Smooth strokes
- Does Not get in the way of the ruler
- Refillable eraser
- Great weight balance
- Gives the luxurious feeling
Cons
- Does Not Have a lead indicator
- Might occur lead to breakage
- You need good quality paper to get the best experience
Why Are Mechanical Pencils Better?
Mechanical pencils are better than both typical pens and wooden pencils. Let me elaborate. Suppose you have to do math or sketching. You can’t use a pen for sketching or math because you might have to erase any mistakes.
Also, pen strokes are not as fine as pencil strokes. On the other hand, wooden pencils do not have the best grip, and the edges get dull quite easily. Halting your work to sharpen a pencil then getting back to work again. This process is annoying and hampers your creative flow. In that situation, mechanical pencils are a combination of the best of both worlds.
Mechanical pencils save time and increase productivity. That is why mechanical pencils are the best.
Mechanical pencils have a pen-like body and the mechanism of a pencil. With a mechanical pencil, you can get a good grip, fine stroke, and an eraser. All these facilities without ever using a sharpener.
Just use the retractable cap for more lead and get going. Mechanical pencils are easy, smart, and convenient. Thus, mechanical pencils are better than pencils and pens. With a mechanical pencil, you can write, draw, and sketch effortlessly.
Key Considerations When Buying The Best Mechanical Pencil
In this article, we have handpicked the best mechanical pencils for you. We believe that no matter what your purpose or budget is, you’ll find the best one in this blog.
However, we respect your freedom of choice. If you find the best mechanical pencil, then you can consider these features.
Lead Size
The lead size is an important feature that you should look into. The lead size determines the precision of the pencil. The lead size can be in the range of 0.2- 0.9 mm. You should choose the lead size according to the work you need to do.
For example, if you are someone who needs a mechanical pencil for writing, then you should go for a 0.7mm lead. Likewise, if you need a mechanical pencil for sketching, then you should get the 0.2mm lead. The lead size depends on why you need a mechanical pencil for.
- 0.2mm is generally used for sketching.
- 0.3mm lead provides the most precise ultra-thin lines.
- 0.5mm is the most appreciated lead size. It provides fine precise strokes, thus it is most suitable for geometry and drawing.
- 0.7mm is the best for writing as well as doodles. It is most suitable for any work that is less detail-oriented.
- 0.9 mm provides the thickest lines out of all lead sizes. You can use this one for thick, bold strokes. Moreover, if you’re a heavy writer, then you should definitely buy the 0.9mm one.
Comfortable Grip
Mechanical pencil grip is subjective. Some people care about comfortable grip and some don’t. However, brands value the ideas on both sides.
Thus, you can find mechanical pencils with both firm and rubbery grips.
Weight Balance
Similar to grip, people’s opinion on pencils’ weight is also subjective. However, it is important to have a well-balanced pencil. A well-balanced pencil will keep your hand stressed free thus your productivity won’t be hampered.
Cost
The cost of mechanicals is quite dramatic. It can be as cheap as $2 to $70. Surprisingly enough, there isn’t much difference between a luxury mechanical pencil and a cheap, good-quality mechanical pencil.
However, luxurious mechanical pencils are expensive because of their grand making, expensive feeling, and aesthetic. Thus, it is a fantasy of many artists or students to own a luxurious mechanical pencil.
In that case, lucky for you because we have reviewed the Best luxurious mechanical pencil too!
Which is a good yet cheap mechanical pencil?
We all are aware that mechanical pencils can be ridiculously expensive. Some of them have outstanding features and designs that are worth the price. While some mechanical pencils are not worth the money.
Thus, we wanted to find an inexpensive mechanical pencil that performs like an expensive pencil. Zebra DelGuard mechanical pencil is the best mechanical pencil at its price point. This pencil is smartly engineered.
It is sleek, strong, and inexpensive! So, get this pencil if you don’t want to invest a ridiculous amount in a mechanical pencil.
OUR RECOMMENDATION
Pick the Best Mechanical Pencil for Effortless Writing
Uni-ball KuruToga is the best mechanical pencil. This is a well-made pencil. Comes with an excellent eraser and extra leads. The advanced rotation makes the tip always sharp and strong. You’ll not experience wobbly, blunt lead with this pencil and the best part is it is also inexpensive!
Zebra DelGuard mechanical pencil
Wrap-Up
So, now that you have read the entire article, you know a thing or two about mechanical pencils. It is convenient, portable, and user-friendly.
I believe this article will be your perfect guide to finding the best mechanical pencil. So, make sure you judge all the mechanical pencils properly and buy the best one for you!
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