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Colored pencils add vibrant flair to any artwork, but keeping those pencils sharp requires the right tool. We've compared the best options on the market to help you find a colored pencil sharpener that matches your needs, whether you're a casual artist or a professional illustrator.

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Reviews

Electric Pencil Sharpener

When the built-in batteries croak in your trusty electric sharpener, fear not – it falls back to manual mode with the press of a switch, making it a durable companion for artists and students alike. The clear plastic body lets you watch the pencil shavings tumble out as you nail that perfect point, while the sleek design slips neatly into any backpack or art kit. Its compact frame manages to pack a surprising punch, effortlessly handling standard pencils whether they're sharp as needles or as chunky as crayons.

6-Piece Dual-Hole Pencil Sharpener

These six cute pencil sharpeners come in vibrant colors and make your desk more fun while keeping it clean. Each one holds lots of pencil shavings, and the clear back lets you see when it's time to empty them.

Helix Canister with Metal Single-Hole Sharpener

The metal single-hole sharpener from Helix delivers reliable performance with its high-quality steel blade, effortlessly sharpening all standard pencils while keeping shavings contained in the translucent, shatter-resistant canister. While some users report durability issues after extended use, particularly with harder pencils, the compact design makes it ideal for desk or classroom use.

Derwent Pastel Pencil Sharpener

This pastel-specific sharpener excels at preserving the delicate cores of colored pencils while producing consistent, fine points. Its straightforward design makes it an essential tool for artists who work with both pastels and larger pencils, though users note that regular blade sharpening is necessary for optimal performance. With its slightly larger blade gap and precise cutting action, this plastic sharpener proves its worth for artists who demand a reliable, dedicated tool for their most delicate media.

ZMOL Battery-Powered Pencil Sharpener

This compact pencil sharpener handles both standard graphite and colored pencils with its double-blade system, efficiently whittling away at the 6-8mm diameter tools you've got stashed in your desk drawer. The twist-closure design makes quick work of emptying the reservoir, and with three blade holders included, you'll be sharpening away without interruptions. Just two AA batteries (not included) keep this cordless helper ticking along, giving you that instant sharpen without the hassle of cables or adapters.

Electric Pencil Sharpener with Helical Blade

This electric pencil sharpener combines a compact design with sleek construction to deliver seamless functionality. Made from quality materials for durability, it efficiently sharpens both standard #2 and larger pencils within the 6-8mm range. The heavy-duty helical blade ensures consistent results as you transform your writing implements into sharp, ready-to-use tools.

AFMAT Long Point Pencil Sharpener

This reliable electric sharpener handles everything from HB to 8B pencils, with a generous 9.6mm opening perfect for thick Prismacolor and Derwent colored pencils. Its compact design packs a punch at just 448g while delivering smooth, long-pointed tips for your artistic creations. The hidden charging cord keeps the clean lines you'd expect from a quality drawing tool.

Prismacolor Scholar Pencil Sharpener

The Prismacolor Scholar Pencil Sharpener excels at maintaining your colored pencils' tips without waste. Its compact design features a translucent green body that doubles as a handy pencil storage solution. Whether you're colorizing or precision-drawing, the gentle steel blade delivers consistent results that keep your pencils performing at their finest.

Monkey Business Lollypop Pencil Sharpener

When it comes to keeping art supplies sharp and organized, this lollipop-shaped pencil sharpener pulls out all the stops with its colorful design and thoughtful features. The compact size makes it perfect for school bags or home desk drawers, while the easy twist-open design keeps maintenance simple. Whether you're outfitting a classroom or treating yourself, this quality sharpener proves that functionality and fun can go hand in hand.

Mr. Pen 6-Pc Colored Pencil Sharpeners

These cute pencil sharpeners come in six colorful pieces and feature durable metal blades wrapped in tough plastic. The double-hole design handles standard to large pencils, and the see-through shavings container makes cleanup a breeze.

Mr. Pen Pencil Sharpener & Eraser

This four-pack of colorful pencil sharpeners combines practicality with whimsy, featuring dual-sharpening holes for both standard and jumbo pencils. The durable plastic construction and metal blade design ensure reliable performance while keeping hands safe during use. Each compact sharpener measures just over an inch in diameter, making it perfect for school bags, desk drawers, or any spot where you need to keep your writing tools in tip-top shape.

Studio Series Colored Pencil Sharpener

This compact pencil sharpener packs a big punch, effortlessly handling everything from chunky colored pencils to precision graphite points. The clever dual-opening design means you're never left sharpening blind, while the spill-proof screw-top lid keeps your workspace tidy. Its durable metal construction and clear plastic case make it a practical addition to any artist's toolkit, perfectly balancing performance with portability.

Mr. Pen Owl Shaped Colored Pencil Sharpener

This adorable owl-shaped sharpener makes pencil maintenance fun for kids and students. The manual mechanism handles standard pencils and color pencils alike, while the detachable blade unit makes cleaning a breeze. At just 3.5 inches in diameter, it's compact enough for desk drawers but cute enough to display.

Maped Color'Peps Colored Pencil Sharpener

Each sharpener comes with a shatter-resistant canister that's easy to hold, featuring a protective cap to keep those annoying shavings in check. With two convenient holes, it handles both regular and jumbo colored pencils with ease, trimming them to a safe rounded tip that's perfect for coloring books and school projects. The compact size fits snugly in a pencil case, making it a practical addition to any artist's toolkit.

Helix Canister 2 Hole Pencil Sharpener

The Helix 2-hole canister sharpener combines sharp steel blades with a translucent shatter-resistant canister that lets you see when it's time to empty. Its compact design keeps your desk tidy while the flat base makes it stable for daily use. Whether you're an artist or just need sharp pencils for work, this sharpener gets the job done.

Soho Urban Artist 3-Hole Colored Pencil Sharpener

This versatile little sharpener has earned high praise from artists who appreciate its practical design. The three holes cater to different pencil profiles - whether you're whittling down hexagonal, round, or triangular pencils, it handles them all with ease. The compact size makes it perfect for carrying around in your backpack or art supply bag, while the built-in shavings catcher keeps your workspace tidy.

Powerful Electric Pencil Sharpener

This electric pencil sharpener makes quick work of sharpening both standard #2 pencils and art-grade wooden pencils, getting them ready in just 5 seconds with its quiet motor. The battery-powered design means you can take it anywhere—school, sketchbook sessions, or just keeping it handy at home. It's pretty straightforward to use: hold the pencil steady while extending it into the sharpener, and you'll know it's done when the sharpening sound changes and it gets easier to push. The whole thing breaks down easily for cleaning, and the blade is good for over 1,000 sharpenings with the included replacement.

Golcellia 4 Pcs Small Colored Pencil Sharpeners

These Golcellia pencil sharpeners combine convenience with kid-friendly design. The dual-clip system handles both standard and jumbo pencils effortlessly. The compact size makes them ideal for backpacks or desk drawers, while the see-through window lets children watch the sharpening process. With a choice of four colors – green, pink, blue, and white – these sharpeners bring a touch of fun to back-to-school supplies.

AFMAT Colored Pencil Sharpener

This rechargeable AFMAT pencil sharpener handles everything from standard No. 2 pencils to thick charcoal sticks, thanks to its robust 6-12mm capacity. The compact electric model features a convenient USB charging system and portable design that makes it ideal for studio or classroom use. The included 2000mAh battery provides plenty of power for your drawing sessions, automatically stopping when the pencil is sharp and safely ejecting broken leads.

Sargent Art 3 Hole Pencil Sharpener

This simple but effective 3-hole pencil sharpener handles everything from standard pencils to the oversized makeup tools you might keep in your vanity. The large container catches all those pencil shavings, and the easy-grip oval design makes it a breeze to use. Whether you're coloring in a coloring book or getting ready for the day, this little sharpener has got you covered.

Electric Pencil Sharpener

This compact electric sharpener handles both No. 2 and colored pencils with precision, featuring a quiet motor that lets you work without disturbance. The included three-color selection makes it perfect for quick touch-ups at your desk or while traveling. Whether you're an artist perfecting your sketch or a student finishing a homework assignment, this sharpener makes the process smoother and more reliable than traditional sharpeners.

General's Little Red All Art Sharpener

This compact little red sharpener, with its round body and red ink color, keeps your pastel chalk and charcoal tools in top condition. The six-compartment fishbowl design reveals your sharpened pencils while keeping them tidy and protected in a single unit. Its hexagonal shape makes it a versatile addition to your art supply shelf or checkout counter.

Halo Colored Pencil Electric Sharpener

This electric pencil sharpener quickly whisks through colored pencils while its non-stick blades sing a merry tune of extended sharpener longevity. The clever auto-sensor takes over when it's done its job, delicately nipping off just enough wood to leave your pencil tip pristine. Whether you're coloring in a coloring book or just need a sharp point for your next to-do list, this guy's got you covered with its reliable performance and straightforward operation.

Maped 2005013 Color Peps 2-Hole Colored Pencil Sharpener

This compact and versatile colored pencil sharpener is perfect for crafting sessions and school projects. The shatter-resistant canister design makes it easy to grab and hold, while the protective cap keeps pencil shavings contained. The double-holed mechanism handles both standard and jumbo-sized colored pencils with ease, giving you perfectly rounded tips for precise coloring.

EISEN Pencil Sharpener Set

These single-hole pencil sharpeners pack a surprising amount of quality into their compact design. With 25 included in the set and featuring high-quality blades, they'll keep your pencils sharp without much hassle. The best part is you can grab them in your choice of color - not that you'll mind much with how practical they are.

Electric Pencil Sharpener for Colored Pencils

The electric pencil sharpener uses precision stainless steel blades to tackle both standard No. 2 pencils and colored pencils with ease. With just a simple vertical push and steady pressure, the automatic mechanism takes over, shaving down your pencil to a perfect point in under 5 seconds. The compact, space-saving design includes a clever shake-to-release feature for quick cleanup of the shaving canister.

Elmer's X-Acto Manual Pencil Sharpener

This wall-mounted pencil sharpener from Elmer's brings back nostalgic memories of elementary school while offering reliable performance for both kids and adults. With its simple, manual design, it provides precise point control that electric sharpeners can't match. The vacuum-mount base keeps it handy without cluttering surfaces, and the see-through shavings container makes cleanup a breeze.

PowerME Electric Pencil Sharpener

The PowerMe electric pencil sharpener combines precision and portability for both school and studio use. Its battery-powered design quickly tackles No. 2 and colored pencils alike, thanks to its durable stainless steel blade that's good for up to 3000 sharpenings. The compact size makes it perfect for classroom or home desk, where teachers and artists alike can keep sharp tools at the ready.

Deli Manual Dual Holes Pencil Sharpener with Lid

These dual-hole pencil sharpeners handle both regular and jumbo pencils with ease, thanks to their precise blade design that ensures smooth, consistent sharpening. The translucent canister makes it simple to see when you need to empty the chip tray, while the compact size fits perfectly in a backpack or pencil case. The randomly colored sharpener comes in vibrant hues that kids and adults alike will love.

Mr. Pen 3-In-1 Colored Pencil Sharpener

The 3-in-1 sharpener makes handling different pencil sizes a breeze, with separate sections for jumbo, regular, and colored pencils. The compact size and intuitive design keep your workspace clean, while the metal blade delivers sharp points every time. Whether you're coloring or crafting, this sharpener makes the job straightforward and satisfying.

WEKOIL Dual-Blade Pencil Sharpener

The WEKOIL twin-blade sharpener elegantly handles both graphite and color pencils, though its fine point capability shines more for the former. The durable aluminum and steel construction promises reliable performance, albeit requiring occasional blade replacement to maintain those razor-sharp edges.

Enday Dual Manual Pencil Sharpener

This dual-handled pencil sharpener handles everything from standard pencils to the oversized ones you need for school projects or art classes. The compact design neatly tucks into your pencil case, while its sturdy plastic construction and honed blade make it a reliable addition to any desk or art studio. Whether you're coloring in a coloring book or writing your next essay, this sharpest buddy keeps your pencils pointy and ready to go.

Winter Colored Pencil Sharpener

These cheerful plastic sharpeners pack a lot of functionality into a small size, each capable of handling multiple pencil sharpenings before needing replacement. The bright color selection adds a fun touch to any stationery collection, though some users note that the clear lids tend to come off easily during use. With 72 sharpeners per order, these make an economical choice for classroom rewards or school supply kits, particularly when paired with basic wooden pencils.

Mr. Pen Manual Pencil Sharpener

This manual pencil sharpener from Mr. Pen handles both standard pencils and colored ones with ease. The clever auto-feed and auto-stop features make the sharpening process simple and safe. When you're done, the detachable blade unit makes cleaning a breeze.

AFMAT Heavy Duty Electric Pencil Sharpener

With its powerful 6000-sharpener-cycle capacity and professional helical blade, this classroom-friendly electric sharpener whisks through No. 2 and colored pencils in just 3-5 seconds – though you'll want to keep those pencils at a 45-degree angle to avoid an off-center point. The UL-listed heavy-duty design has silenced complaints from previous users, though one teacher reported a minor issue where the sharpener stopped working after a week of use. The built-in safety feature prevents operation when the tray is out, keeping small hands safe while teachers and artists enjoy its speedy reliability.

Prismacolor Premier Pencil Sharpener

The Prismacolor Premier Pencil Sharpener makes it easy to get perfect points for your colored pencils with its dual-blade system that handles both fine and wide points. The steel blades work great on Prismacolor Premier pencils, though some users find it can be tricky to open the lid—so make sure to keep it handy near a trash can!

AFMAT Electric Pencil Sharpener

The AFMAT electric pencil sharpener whips through sharpening with remarkable speed, munching through new and used pencils in mere seconds. Its automatic shut-off feature prevents precious lead from getting wasted, while the large capacity shavings box and open lid make cleanup a breeze. The motor packs enough power to handle just about any 6-12mm pencil you throw at it, from standard No. 2 writing pencils to chunky colored pencils and even tough charcoal sticks.

Faber-Castell Grip Trio Pencil Sharpener

With its ergonomic triangular design and three interchangeable sharpening blades, the Faber-Castell Grip Trio Pencil Sharpener handles everything from standard pencils to jumbo colored ones with precision. The metal insert and large waste container make it both durable and practical, while the assorted blue and red colors add a nice pop of personality to your art supplies.

Aipker 4PC Colored Pencil Sharpener

These four colorful pencil sharpeners each feature dual-holed designs to handle standard and large pencils with ease. The compact, portable sharpeners come with lids for on-the-go use and include transparent shavings containers for simple cleanup. With their proven reliability and durable construction, these pocket-sized sharpeners have earned high praise from users across various professions.

LITEONE Rechargeable Electric Pencil Sharpener

This little electric sharpener handles everything from standard No. 2 pencils to chunky 10mm colored pencils with ease. The 1500mAh battery gives you 300 sharpenings per charge, and with its auto-feed mechanism, you're free to get on with your creative work while it does the grinding. The three-setting blade lets you adjust the point perfectly for your next sketch or color study.

Faber-Castell Trio Pencil Sharpener

This compact pencil sharpener from Faber-Castell handles everything from standard to jumbo pencils, including colored ones. The three-bladed system and dual-shelf design keep your workspace tidy, while the ergonomic triangle shape makes it comfortable to use in either hand.

Kum Long Point Automatic Pencil Sharpener

This little gem of a sharpener has won over pencil enthusiasts with its clever two-step system that first trims the wood and then sharpens the lead to an impressive point. It's not just convenient - with its compact size and clever design that holds spare blades, it's earned a special spot in many artist's kits. The carbon steel blades do a fantastic job, though some users recommend covering the branded sides with tape to protect the logo.

Faber Castell Dual Metal Sharpener

Made for artists who work with colored pencils and crayons, this durable metal sharpener gives you two different options for how pointy you want your pencils to be. It's pretty good at keeping your pencils from getting too short while you're working, and it fits nicely in your hands when you're sharpening.

Grip Trio Pencil Sharpener

The Faber-Castell Grip Trio Pencil Sharpener packs three precision sharpeners into a sleek, space-saving design. The compact handheld tool features interchangeable blades for color pencils, graphite pencils, and oversized art tools, with a clever hinged lid that funnels shavings into a built-in receptacle. Users praise its reliable performance and efficient design, though some note differences in blade lifespan between models.

Pen+gear Battery-Operated Pencil Sharpener

A simple yet effective pencil sharpener that makes quick work of sharpening those essential writing tools. The included batteries power a mechanism that holds your pencil firmly in place while the blade does the work, requiring just the right amount of pressure. When it's time to clear out the shavings, the clear side panel pops off for easy emptying – though some might find the oddly shaped storage compartment a bit inconvenient. The blue design looks nice on your desk or in your backpack, making it a practical addition to any student's toolkit.

Handheld Barrel Manual Pencil Sharpener

This simple handheld sharpener has earned high praise from users who appreciate its durability and effectiveness. Made of metal with a compact 2-inch frame, it features a twist-off lid to catch shavings and a quality blade that maintains a fine point. While some notice the blades dull after frequent use, the overall satisfaction from both students and artists who've used it for years speaks to its value as a reliable pencil-sharpening solution.

Pen+gear 2-in-1 Plastic Sharpener

The Pen+gear 2-in-1 Sharpener combines convenient portability with reliable performance for both standard and jumbo pencils, plus it handles crayons with ease. The compact design fits perfectly in pencil pouches and backpacks, while the translucent body lets you check on the shavings collection. Its two-hole structure and quality blades deliver sharp points quickly and efficiently.

Blackwing One-Step Pencil Sharpener

The Blackwing One-Step Long Point Sharpener creates a durable pencil tip that resists breakage, thanks to its German steel blade and durable aluminum construction. While some users praise its elegant design and efficient shavings collection, others find it unreliable, frequently breaking pencil leads and jamming internally. The compact sharpener holds three pencil loads before needing to be emptied.

Buyer's Guide

Colored pencil sharpeners come in various designs, each offering different levels of convenience and precision. Understanding the key features will help you choose the right tool for your creative projects.

Manual vs. Electric Sharpeners

Manual sharpeners provide control over the sharpening process and are ideal for precise work. They're quiet, portable, and require no electricity. Electric sharpeners can handle multiple pencils quickly but may produce more heat and noise. Consider your work style and project requirements to choose the best option.

Sharpener Design Options

Colored pencil sharpeners come in three main designs: traditional, electric, and multi-tool. Traditional sharpeners are the most common, with adjustable blades for precise cutting. Electric sharpeners usually feature interchangeable blades for different pencil sizes. Multi-tools combine sharpening with other functions like eraser or sharpener storage.

Blade Quality and Maintenance

The blade quality directly affects the sharpener's performance and pencil longevity. High-quality stainless steel blades last longer and produce cleaner cuts. Regular maintenance is crucial for both types of sharpeners. Manual sharpeners need blade sharpening or replacement, while electric models require blade changes and cleaning to maintain performance.

Size and Portability

Consider the sharpener's size and how portable it needs to be. Desktop models offer robust construction and additional features but are less convenient for on-the-go use. Travel-friendly options are lightweight and compact, ideal forartists working in various locations. Portable sharpeners often double as storage solutions, keeping your pencils organized and accessible.

FAQ

What makes a good colored pencil sharpener?

A quality colored pencil sharpener should have a sharp, precise blade that can create consistent, uniform pencil points without damaging the pencil core. The mechanism should be smooth-operating and able to handle both new and shorter pencils.

Look for features like adjustable sharpening settings for different pencil diameters and a dust collection system to keep your workspace clean.

Can I use regular pencil sharpeners for colored pencils?

While some regular pencil sharpeners may work for colored pencils, they're not ideal. The blade may not be precise enough to create the thin points you need for colored pencils, and the core can get caught in the mechanism.

Colored pencil-specific sharpeners are designed to handle the unique properties of colored pencil cores and produce the best possible results.

How do I properly maintain a colored pencil sharpener?

Regular maintenance includes cleaning the shavings collection plate and sharpening the blade when it dulls. To sharpen the blade, use a metal file to hone it to a sharp edge.

Avoid using the sharpener on mechanical pencils or other types of writing instruments to extend its lifespan.

What's the best way to store colored pencil shavings?

Store shavings in a dedicated container with a lid to prevent dust and debris from getting in. A small plastic container works well, as it's easy to screw on and off.

Regularly empty the container to prevent it from becoming too full, which can make it difficult to open and close.

How often should I replace my colored pencil sharpener?

Most sharpeners will last for several years with regular use and proper maintenance. Signs that it's time to replace include a dull blade that creates uneven points and a noisy mechanism that struggles to cut the pencil.

As a general guideline, replace your sharpener every 3-5 years, depending on usage frequency and maintenance.

Are there any safety considerations when using colored pencil sharpeners?

Always use the sharpener on a stable surface to prevent it from tipping and causing injury. Keep your fingers away from the cutting blade while operating the sharpener.

For children using colored pencil sharpeners, supervise them to ensure they understand proper use and safety guidelines.