A surprising fact about colored pencil sharpeners is that many artists prefer to use manual sharpeners over electric ones, as they produce a finer point and allow for more control over the sharpening process. While electric sharpeners can be convenient, they often leave a mess and can be noisy. For those who want the best of both worlds, or for those who prefer the tactile experience of sharpening, there are many excellent options available. In this roundup, we'll explore the top sharpest sharpeners for colored pencils.
Key Takeaways
- When shopping for a colored pencil sharpener, consider the capacity of the sharpener and whether it can handle large or jumbo pencils.
- Look for sharpeners with safety features such as a lid or cover to prevent accidental sharpener pinching.
- Material is also important, with metal sharpeners being more durable than plastic ones.
- Consider the speed of the sharpener, especially if you're looking for a high-speed option.
- Manual sharpeners can be a good choice if you want more control over the sharpening process.
| Point Perfector | ![]() |
Bostitch Twist-n-Sharp Manual Pencil Sharpener | Point Perfector | Easy to use | Customizable sharpening | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Precision Sharpener | ![]() |
Prismacolor Premier Pencil Sharpener | Precision sharpener | Specifically designed for Prismacolor pencils | Translucent black body | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Speed Demon | ![]() |
AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener | Speed demon | Automatic stop | Large capacity shavings box | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Handheld Hero | ![]() |
Faber-Castell Grip Trio Pencil Sharpener | Handheld hero | Ergonomic design | Extra sharp steel blades | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Artisan's Delight | ![]() |
Mobius + Ruppert Brass Pencil Sharpener | Artisan's delight | Solid brass construction | Double sharpeners | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Versatile Sharpener | ![]() |
STAEDTLER Double-Hole Tub Pencil Sharpener | Versatile sharpener | Dual-hole design | Built-in shavings container | View on Amazon | Read Review |
| Quick Sharpen | ![]() |
Electric Pencil Sharpener | Quick sharpen | Automatic stop | Large-capacity shavings container | View on Amazon | Read Review |
More Details on Our Top Picks
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Bostitch Twist-n-Sharp Manual Pencil Sharpener
- BRAND:Bostitch
- TYPE:Manual
- SIZE/CAPACITY:Not specified
- MATERIAL:Not specified
- POWER/SPEED:Not applicable
- COUNT:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Attached dispenser door
- Additional Feature:Customizable sharpening
- Additional Feature:Tip saver technology
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Prismacolor Premier Pencil Sharpener
- BRAND:Prismacolor
- TYPE:Manual
- SIZE/CAPACITY:Not specified
- MATERIAL:Not specified
- POWER/SPEED:Not applicable
- COUNT:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Two different blades
- Additional Feature:Translucent black body
- Additional Feature:Precision steel blades
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AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener
- BRAND:AFMAT
- TYPE:Electric
- SIZE/CAPACITY:3.7 x 3.7 x 7 inches
- MATERIAL:Not specified
- POWER/SPEED:Fast
- COUNT:Over 8000 times
- Additional Feature:Automatic stop
- Additional Feature:Two sharpness settings
- Additional Feature:Helical blade
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Faber-Castell Grip Trio Pencil Sharpener
- BRAND:Faber-Castell
- TYPE:Manual
- SIZE/CAPACITY:Not specified
- MATERIAL:Not specified
- POWER/SPEED:Not applicable
- COUNT:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Ergonomic design
- Additional Feature:Extra sharp steel blades
- Additional Feature:Portable design
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Mobius + Ruppert Brass Pencil Sharpener
- BRAND:Mobius + Ruppert
- TYPE:Manual
- SIZE/CAPACITY:Not specified
- MATERIAL:Solid brass
- POWER/SPEED:Not applicable
- COUNT:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Replaceable blades
- Additional Feature:German-made quality
- Additional Feature:Double sharpeners
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STAEDTLER Double-Hole Tub Pencil Sharpener
- BRAND:STAEDTLER
- TYPE:Manual
- SIZE/CAPACITY:Not specified
- MATERIAL:Not specified
- POWER/SPEED:Not applicable
- COUNT:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Dual-hole design
- Additional Feature:Built-in shavings container
- Additional Feature:Precision steel blades
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Electric Pencil Sharpener
- BRAND:Not specified
- TYPE:Electric
- SIZE/CAPACITY:Not specified
- MATERIAL:Not specified
- POWER/SPEED:Fast
- COUNT:Over 600 times
- Additional Feature:Automatic stop
- Additional Feature:Three adjustable sharpening settings
- Additional Feature:Helical blade
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a sharpener for colored pencils and one for regular pencils?
When it comes to sharpening colored pencils, you need a sharpener that can handle the thicker, wax-based leads found in these art supplies. A sharpener designed for regular pencils might not be able to effectively sharpen colored pencils, leading to uneven edges or even breakage. Look for a sharpener specifically marketed as suitable for colored pencils, such as those with angled blades or adjustable sharpening.
How do I choose the right size of sharpener for my needs?
Consider the size of your pencils and the amount of sharpening you plan to do. A small sharpener is great for travel or small-scale projects, while a larger sharpener can handle more frequent or heavy use. Some sharpeners also come with interchangeable sharpening wheels or cones, allowing you to adapt to different pencil sizes.
Can I use a manual sharpener or do I need an electric one?
Both manual and electric sharpeners have their advantages. Manual sharpeners are often more portable and less expensive, but may require more elbow grease to produce a sharp point. Electric sharpeners, on the other hand, can be faster and more convenient, but may be noisier and more expensive. If you're looking for a quick and easy sharpening experience, an electric sharpener might be the way to go.
How often should I clean my colored pencil sharpener?
It's a good idea to clean your sharpener regularly to prevent lead buildup and maintain its effectiveness. Depending on how frequently you use your sharpener, you may need to clean it every few uses or after each project. Simply remove any debris and wipe down the sharpener with a soft cloth.
Are there any safety precautions I should take when using a colored pencil sharpener?
Always use caution when handling sharp objects, and be mindful of small parts that can be easily lost. Make sure to store your sharpener in a safe location out of reach of children and pets. Additionally, be careful not to touch the sharp blades or edges of the sharpener, as they can cause injury.







