“An animator is an actor with a pencil.”

That quote, from the legendary cartoonist Chuck Jones perfectly illustrates the importance of a pencil in the hand of a designer or artist. With the right tools, they can create anything that their imagination sees in their mind and put it on paper. Mr. Jones’ inspiring words inspired us to take a closer look at the best mechanical pencils for artists and designers in 2022.

With our list, you should have no problem finding the right option so you can create numerous drawings and sketches in your downtime or even as part of your profession.

Let’s get started!

Best Mechanical Pencils for Designers in 2022

Uni Kurutoga Pipe Slide 0.5mm is the best mechanical pencil for drawing. But, when we looked at all the choices that you might have when buying a mechanical pencil, we wanted to make sure that you were getting some of the best products available. As any designer will confess to, having poor tools only makes things harder.

1. Uni Kurutoga Pipe Slide 0.5mm — Best mechanical pencil for drawing (Editor’s Choice)
2. Pentel 200— Basic mechanical pencil
3. Zebra M-701 Stainless Steel— Mechanical pencil with best grip
4. Uni Core Keeps Sharp Mechanical— Mechanical pencil with cool design
5. Pentel GraphGear 1000 Mechanical Pencil— Second best overall mechanical pencil
6. Rotring 800 — Luxury mechanical pencil
7. WSD Sketch Up— A best mechanical pencil for sketching
8. Aviation Magnetic Control 2.0mm Mechanical Pencil— Mechanical pencil for minimalists
9. Pilot Dr. Grip Mechanical Pencil— Ergonomically-friendly pencil
10. Tombow Mono Graph Shaker — High-quality mechanical pencil
11. Pentel Graphgear 500 Automatic Drafting Pencil— A best mechanical pencil for technical drawing
12. Zebra 54012 Stainless Steel Mechanical Pencil — Budget-friendly mechanical pencil
13. Rotring 600 Black Barrel— Premium mechanical pencil
14. Rite in the Rain All-Weather Durable— Mechanical pencil for rough weather
15. Staedtler 780 C Mars— Mechanical pencil for everyone

If you are a designer and are looking for tools to enhance your creativity see our post on the best pens for artists and the best pastel pencils.

Best Mechanical Pencils Compared

 

How to Pick the Right Mechanical Pencil

Choosing the right mechanical pencil should be an easy process right? Well, with all of the available options, it can be a bit overwhelming if you aren’t sure what you’re looking for. There are so many varieties out there. Some come in plastic, or metal, or even in plastic and metal. Ugh, it’s enough to give anyone a migraine.

Relax. Choosing the right mechanical pencil generally comes down to three factors:

“Lead” size

While graphite is used instead of lead these days, the size of the graphite in the pencil is measured in millimeters. Sizes that you will commonly see include .5, .7, or .9 mm in diameter. Smaller size graphite can produce a sharper, finer point that is great for detail work while larger diameters are perfect for thicker, bolder lines. The diameter can go all the way down to .2 mm and has an incredibly fine point.

Graphite hardness

Do you remember the yellow #2 pencils that we used on every final exam in high school? Well, they were #2 pencils because the graphite inside of them was supposedly the best for darkening those maddening answer circles. After all, they were softer, allowing you to smudge the graphite and fill in the circle smoothly without ripping through the paper.

Like #2 pencils, mechanical pencil inserts have a range of softness and hardness. While a finer point is good for details, a softer insert can be good for shading and shadows. The hardness of the graphite ranges from 9H to 9B – 9H is the hardest and 9B is the softest. Smack dab in the middle of the range is HB, for Hard Black which is good for details and shading.

Pencil material

Mechanical pencils come in all kinds of materials. From the mass-produced plastic pencils that you can buy 100 for very little money, all the way up to mechanical pencils made from high-quality, durable metals that can cost a pretty penny. While the all-plastic mechanical pencils are good for elementary school students, for professional artists and designers, having a pencil that can stand up to rigorous daily use is important.

 

Best Mechanical Pencils for Designers in 2022

1. Uni Kurutoga Pipe Slide 0.5mm (Editor’s Choice)

 

The best mechanical pencil for drawing overall

Weight: 18.1g | Dimensions: 19.2 x 10 x 1.6cm | Lead diameter: 0.5mm

The Uni Kurutoga Pipe Slide is our choice for the best overall mechanical pencil for drawing because of its innovative design. When you using a normal mechanical pencil, the graphite wears down on one side, which in turn creates a slanted, wedge-shaped tip and can create variations in the thickness of the line when you draw. With a unique mechanism, the Kurutoga continuously rotates the pencil lead as you write. Every time you lift the pencil from the paper, a spring-loaded clutch twists the lead a tiny amount, allowing a uniform wearing of the lead and leading to a cleaner and more consistent line for you.

 

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2. Pentel 200

Best basic mechanical pencil

Weight: 10g | Dimensions: 0.89 x 14 x 0.89cm | Lead diameter: 0.5mm

There isn’t anything that says a good mechanical pencil needs to cost a ton of money. More and more, there are great options that are amazingly cheap such as the Pentel 200. The Pentel 200 comes with such an affordable price that it makes a great backup mechanical pencil or even your main option. You won’t get upset if you happen to lose it or if someone happens to walk away with it and it’s also available in a set of 4, making it even more affordable and convenient.

 

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3. Zebra M-701 Stainless Steel

Best grip on a mechanical pencil

Weight: 31g | Dimensions: 1 x 3.3 x 8 inches | Lead diameter: 0.7mm

Made from stainless steel, the M-701 from Zebra is a sturdy and rugged pencil that stands out when compared to its competitors. Zebra has become well-known for producing high-quality writing instruments that offer an upgrade from regular products. Made from materials that stand the test of time and provides an eye-pleasing design as well. With a knurled metal grip on the barrel of the pencil, Zebra’s design increases the surface area for holding the pencil which also benefits the stability of the pencil. At an affordable price, the M-701 from Zebra will offer a premium look and performance to you.

 

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4. Uni Core Keeps Sharp Mechanical

A great mechanical pencil with a cool design

Weight: 13.6g | Dimensions: 5.7 x 0.4 x 0.5 inches | Lead diameter: 0.5mm

With its sleek design in gunmetal black, the Keeps Sharp Mechanical pencil from Uni Core comes with a comfortable knurled grip that fits nicely in your hand and gives you a firm grip without a sticky feeling. The pencil is constructed from metal and plastic and its design allows you to draw longer without experiencing hand fatigue. Using .5mm lead, a size that is very versatile and can help you draw some very detailed designs. Combined with the metal clip that lets you attach it to your jacket or bag easily, the Keeps Sharp Mechanical pencil from Uni Core is a great pencil for just about anyone.

 

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5. Pentel GraphGear 1000 Mechanical Pencil

A close second to best overall mechanical pencil

Weight: 40.8g | Dimensions: 0.75 x 2.81 x 7.38 inches | Lead diameter: various

It was neck and neck for us when we picked the best overall mechanical pencil. The GraphGear 1000 from Pentel is a great pencil that not only meets the needs of designers like a dream but is also great for draftsmen and architects. The heavy metal feels and overall design fits perfectly with those who like a traditional drafting pencil but want the features of a mechanical one. Available in a variety of sizes, Pentel has done a great job of crafting a mechanical pencil that everyone can love. The grip of the pencil, made from chiseled metal, is inlaid with soft pads to help give you maximum comfort and a stronghold.

 

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6. Rotring 800

The best luxury mechanical pencil

Weight: 90.7g | Dimensions: 5.1 x 15.2 x 0.5cm | Lead diameter: 0.5mm

While you can get a great mechanical pencil at an extremely affordable price, that doesn’t mean that some artists might not want to splurge where they can and the Rotring 800 mechanical pencil is a good choice. Infused with high-quality engineering, the pencil is designed to be for serious artists or draughtsmen. The metal body of the pencil feels good in your hand and the weight of almost 91g gives it a hefty but not overweight feel. The ‘twist and click’ retractable mechanism is easy to use and the hexagonal shape will keep it from rolling off your desk. If you’re looking for a gift, or just want a pencil that is nice to use, check out the Rotring 800 and you won’t be disappointed.

 

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7. WSD Sketch Up

Best mechanical pencil for sketching

Weight: 40g | Dimensions: 0.55 x 0.55 x 4.06 inches | Lead diameter: 5.6mm

Many artists and designers may sketch in their downtime to get their ideas out and see where they might lead. These aren’t typically very detailed images so a fine-point mechanical pencil isn’t necessary. The Sketch Up pencil from WSD, a clutch pencil, is a perfect choice. The 5.6mm lead allows an artist to sketch freely and without hesitation. A clutch pencil is similar to a mechanical pencil with a few differences. Instead of pushing the lead out with a button, a clutch allows you to adjust how much lead is being used. This is perfect for an artist or designer who is sketching or shading. Because of the larger lead, the lid comes with a built-in sharpener.

 

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8. Aviation Magnetic Control 2.0mm Mechanical Pencil

The mechanical pencil for minimalists

Weight: 15.9g | Dimensions:5.81 x 0.35 x 0.35 inches | Lead diameter: 2.0mm

The Magnetic Control mechanical pencil from Aviation comes with a very unique design and an interesting mechanism as well. Advancing the 2.0mm lead is done by loosening the tip end and moving the magnetic ring down the shaft. The magnetic ring also allows you to stick it to metal surfaces as a way to store it at the end of the day. With its lead thickness, a pencil is a good option for sketching and drawing as it has gives the user a feel of using a traditional pencil. While it’s not the best mechanical pencil out there, the Magnetic Control mechanical pencil does have a unique design and a great price for something a bit different.

 

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9. Pilot Dr. Grip Mechanical Pencil

Most ergonomically-friendly pencil

Weight: 22g | Dimensions: 2 x 0.2 x 6 inches | Lead diameter: 0.5mm

If you spend all day drawing, it can take a heavy toll on your hands. Featuring an ergonomically-friendly design, the Dr. Grip Mechanical Pencil from Piot helps to combat the hand fatigue or arthritis-like symptoms that may occur when you may be writing or drawing for long periods. With a shaking mechanism to advance the lead, the Dr. Grip is beyond comfortable to write with, has a sturdy feel, and is easy to refill. The Arthritis Foundation has commended the Dr. Grip pencil from Pilot for its ease of use so if your hand feels tired at the end of a long day, give this pencil a try.

 

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10. Tombow Mono Graph Shaker

A great, high-quality mechanical pencil

Weight: 9.97g | Dimensions: 6.2 x 0.6 x 1.3 inches | Lead diameter: 0.5mm

Renowned in the art world, Tombow manufactures some of the best mechanical pencils available. The Mono Graph Shaker follows suit. Designed to be a shaker mechanical pencil, a small weight inside the barrel advances the lead forward when you shake it. A clip is used to unlock the mechanism plus acting as a wall to advance the lead traditionally. This can be especially beneficial to an artist who would rather not have to stop, advance the lead, and then keep going. With its innovative design and providing artists with a tool that they don’t have to sacrifice productivity to use, the Mono Graph Shaker from Tombow is a great mechanical pencil to own.

 

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11. Pentel Graphgear 500 Automatic Drafting Pencil

The best mechanical pencil for technical drawing

Weight: 22.7g | Dimensions: 0.9 x 14.7 x 0.9cm | Lead diameter: 0.3, 0.5, 0.7 or 0.9mm

With a 4mm fixed sleeve that’s great for template work as well as technical drawings, the GraphGear 500 from Pentel is an excellent choice for drawing, technical or otherwise. A metallic-mesh grip makes using the pencil very comfortable while a weighted barrel is designed to help you create precise lines and stay in full control. A built-in hardness indicator helps you identify your lead type so there is no guesswork about the lead in the pencil. At an affordable price, the GraphGear 500 is the best mechanical pencil for precision work, drafting, and even just everyday drawing.

 

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12. Zebra 54012 Stainless Steel Mechanical Pencil

 

Best budget-friendly mechanical pencil

Weight: 22.6g | Dimensions: 7.5 x 2.2 x 0.5 inches | Lead diameter: 0.5mm

The 54012 for Zebra is best budget mechanical pencil and is truly one of their best releases. Made from the finest quality metals to increase its durability and the longevity of the product. At such an affordable price, the only way you would stop using this pencil is if they stopped making lead for it. The overall design provides the pencil with a sophisticated look and with it smaller than regular pencils, it can easily be put inside your pocket. The eraser at the back of the pencil can be replaced if it runs out and with the pencil using a standard lead, you should have no problem refilling this pencil and using it for years to come.

 

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13. Rotring 600 Black Barrel

A great premium mechanical pencil

Weight: 22g | Dimensions: 6.69 x 1.1 x 6.1 inches | Lead diameter: 0.7mm

The all-black with a red trim design of the Rotring 600 gives off an air of being a premium pencil and for artists, the design and features check all the right boxes. With a hexagonal shape that will keep it from rolling away, the all-metal body is as strong and solid as they come without being too heavy. The Rotring 600 is designed in such a way that it reduces fatigue and increases comfort while using it. Available in 0.35, 0.5, or 0.7 mm leads which allow you to choose the right pencil for the situation. While we’re focusing on how good the Rotring 600 is for drawing and sketching, it is also a great option for tracing and writing, adding to its versatility.

 

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14. Rite in the Rain All-Weather Durable

The perfect mechanical pencil for rough weather

Weight: 22g | Dimensions: 5.75 x 0.38 x 0.5 inches | Lead diameter: 1.1mm

Not every artist works at a desk in a comfortable environment. For those artists who get out into nature and get their hands dirty, the Rite in the Rain All-Weather Durable mechanical pencil is a great choice for rough sketches. Available in different colors, including bright yellow, which means it won’t get lost easily. The 1.1mm lead makes the pencil quite the multitasker with it being a great option for sketching or writing and can meet all of the demands that you ask of it. The thicker lead is what sets it apart from other mechanical pencils. Crafted for those who have suffered from broken leads, the Rite in the Rain All-Weather Durable mechanical pencil will help those unnecessary breaks become a thing of the past.

 

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15.  Staedtler 780 C Mars

Best mechanical pencil for almost everyone

Weight: 18.1g | Dimensions: 0.5 x 1.9 x 8.9 inches | Lead diameter: 2mm

Leading the way with its exceptional stationery for years, Staedtler is most certainly a well-known name and the 780 C Mars comes with all of the features you’d expect from the infamous German company. What makes the 780 C Mars stand out is the integrated lead sharpener that, with the push of a button, the lead will be sharp and on point for a delicate, thin line. A retractable tip makes it a great portable option without having to worry about the lead breaking. While the color is refreshing and the crosshatch grip keeps the pencil comfortable in your hand, it seems that Staedtler has another winner on its hands.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Best Mechanical Pencils for Designers in 2022

The best tools help a creator craft amazing pieces of work and having the right mechanical pencil can be the first step in creating the next masterpiece. With our list of the best mechanical pencils for artists and designers in 2022, we hope that we’ve given you a list of suitable options that you can use to make your imagination come to life.

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