The Best Mechanical Pencils
We compared seven mechanical pencils on owner ratings, specs, and price. The BIC Xtra-Smooth Bright Edition Mechanical Pencils are our top pick for their smooth writing and reliability.
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The bottom line
The BIC Xtra-Smooth Bright Edition Mechanical Pencils (B08MQRQTKJ) are our top pick for their smooth writing, no smudging, and convenient 40-count pack. They are highly rated by 15,663 owners and cost $8.9. The BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils (B09RGH38NZ) are a close runner-up, offering a similar experience at a lower price of $4.47 for a 24-count pack. The Paper Mate Handwriting Triangular Mechanical Pencils (B077Q4B6YN) are the budget pick, designed for young learners with a comfortable grip and thick lead, priced at $3.49.
BIC Xtra Smooth Bright Edition Mechanical Pencils $8.90
Best overall for smooth writing and reliability
Owners rate these 4.8/5 from 15,663 ratings. They provide smooth writing, no smudging, and a convenient 40-count pack. The tradeoff is occasional lead breakage under normal pressure.
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BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils $4.47
Great value with smooth writing and pastel colors
Rated 4.8/5 from 69,170 owners, these pencils provide smooth writing and a variety of pastel colors. The tradeoff is that erasers may pick up dark residue and transfer it back onto paper.
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Paper Mate Handwriting Triangular Mechanical Pencils $3.49
Affordable and designed for young learners
These pencils are rated 4.8/5 from 24,621 owners and cost $3.49. They provide a comfortable grip and thick lead, but are designed specifically for young learners.
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- BIC Xtra Smooth Bright Edition Mechanical Pencils Best for smooth writing and reliability 9.0/10 $8.90 Amazon
- BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils Great value with smooth writing and pastel colors 8.5/10 $4.47 Amazon
- Paper Mate Handwriting Triangular Mechanical Pencils Affordable and designed for young learners 8.0/10 $3.49 Amazon
- BIC Xtra-Sparkle Number 2 Mechanical Pencils Colorful design but issues with erasers 7.5/10 $11.89 Amazon
- BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils Good value but pastel barrels may not be serious for professional use 7.0/10 $7.49 Amazon
- BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils Versatile with two lead sizes but limited pack size 6.5/10 $2.47 Amazon
- BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils Reliable mechanism but limited evidence 6.0/10 $14.98 Amazon
Who should buy which
Students and teachers should consider the BIC Xtra-Smooth Bright Edition Mechanical Pencils (B08MQRQTKJ) for their smooth writing and reliability. Young learners will benefit from the Paper Mate Handwriting Triangular Mechanical Pencils (B077Q4B6YN) with their comfortable grip and thick lead. Those looking for a colorful and affordable option should check out the BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils (B09RGH38NZ).
What owners complain about
Some owners report occasional lead breakage under normal pressure with the BIC Xtra-Smooth Bright Edition Mechanical Pencils (B08MQRQTKJ). The erasers on the BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils (B09RGH38NZ) may pick up dark residue and transfer it back onto paper. The Paper Mate Handwriting Triangular Mechanical Pencils (B077Q4B6YN) are designed specifically for young learners and may not be suitable for professional use.
Also-rans
The BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils (B0GHC3WVC2) have limited evidence but offer a reliable advancing mechanism. The BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils (B00260X7F2) offer versatility with two lead sizes but have a limited pack size. The BIC Xtra-Sparkle Number 2 Mechanical Pencils (B0FDN8KBCS) have issues with erasers and occasional discrepancies in pack quantity.