The best retractable makeup pens balance controlled application with a formula that suits your routine. My best overall pick is the NYX Professional Makeup Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil for shoppers who want a straightforward single-color option, while e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner is a useful alternative for wear-focused makeup and the 20-Piece Retractable Colored Eyeliner Pencil Set stands out for color variety. The main tradeoffs are single-pencil focus versus large sets, and streamlined eyeliner use versus kits that add eyeshadow or brow products. A larger assortment may offer more looks, but it can also mean more colors or tools you will rarely use. Read on for how each option compares and which buyer each one suits.
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Key Takeaways
- Single pencils make the clearest everyday picks: NYX Vivid Rich, e.l.f. No Budge, and Maybelline Unstoppable focus on eyeliner rather than asking buyers to sort through a large multi-color kit.
- Set size does not tell the whole value story: the 20-color and 12-color assortments offer range, but a smaller kit may be a better fit if you mainly wear black or neutral liner.
- Waterproof claims matter most when matched to your routine: options such as IT Cosmetics Superhero and Maybelline Unstoppable suit buyers prioritizing wear, while removal and application feel still deserve attention.
- Not every retractable product here is a conventional pencil: LANGMANNI’s matte liquid eyeliner set has a different format, so it should be chosen for that application style rather than compared as a direct pencil substitute.
- Multi-use and specialty kits involve compromises: the brow-and-eyeliner set and eyeliner-and-eyeshadow sticks may suit buyers seeking flexibility, but dedicated pencils are simpler when precise liner is the main goal.
| NYX Professional Makeup Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil, Always Onyx |  | Best for Smooth, Bold Definition | Product type: Retractable eyeliner pencil | Shade: Always Onyx | Color: Black | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Nabi Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner Pencils, Black, 12-Pack |  | Best Multi-Pencil Set | Brand: Nabi | Product type: Retractable eyeliner pencils | Color: Black | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| IT Cosmetics Superhero No-Tug Waterproof Retractable Eyeliner |  | Best for Smooth Application | Type: Retractable eyeliner | Formula: Waterproof, long-wearing | Available shades: Black, Brown, Silk Taupe | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 20-Piece Retractable Colored Eyeliner Pencil Set |  | Best for Color Experimenting | Quantity: 20 pencils | Type: Retractable colored eyeliner | Colors: Assorted, including black, white, silver, blue, green, purple, red, and pink | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner, Black |  | Best Multi-Use Black Pencil | Type: Retractable eyeliner pencil | Color: Black | Formula: Creamy and highly pigmented | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 8-Piece Retractable Eyeliner and Eyeshadow Stick Set |  | Best for Two-in-One Color Variety | Quantity: 8 pieces | Uses: Eyeliner and eyeshadow | Colors: Black, white, brown, blue, purple, green, and gray | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| LANGMANNI 12-Color Matte Liquid Eyeliner Set |  | Best for Liquid-Liner Color Range | Brand: LANGMANNI | Product type: Liquid eyeliner | Number of colors: 12 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Retractable Eyeliner Pencils, 20 Colors |  | Best for Maximum Multi-Use Variety | Quantity: 20 pencils | Format: Retractable pencil | Finishes: Matte and pearlescent | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| NYX Waterproof Retractable Eyeliner, MPE02 Black |  | Best for a Simple Waterproof Black Liner | Color: MPE02 Black | Type: Retractable eyeliner | Waterproof: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Maybelline Unstoppable Waterproof Mechanical Eyeliner Pencil, Onyx Black |  | Best for Sensitive-Eye and Contact-Lens Wearers | Brand: Maybelline | Product type: Mechanical eyeliner pencil | Shade: Onyx Black | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| wet n wild Mega Last Breakup Proof Retractable Eyeliner, Black |  | Best for Long-Wear Black Definition | Product type: Retractable eyeliner | Color: Black | Formula: Satin gel | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 12-Color Matte Gel Eyeliner Pencil Set |  | Best for Matte Color Range | Quantity: 12 pencils | Application: Retractable pencil | Finish: Matte | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Retractable Eyebrow and Eyeliner Pencil Set, 12 Pieces |  | Best for Multi-Use Makeup Experimenting | Quantity: 12 pieces | Product type: Retractable makeup pencils | Stated uses: Eyeliner, eyeshadow, and eyebrow makeup | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 12-Piece Retractable Eyeliner Pencil Set |  | Best for Sharpen-Free Color Versatility | Quantity: 12 pencils | Design: Retractable | Colors: 12 assorted colors, including black, brown, pink, purple, green, blue, and silver | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| EVPCT 12-Color Matte Gel Eyeliner Pencil Set |  | Best for Multi-Area Color Play | Quantity: 12 pencils | Finish: Matte | Colors: White, black, green, blue, yellow, orange, auburn, palm, purple, coffee, cyan, and pink | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| retractable makeup pen | Formula |
|---|---|
| NYX Professional Makeup Vivid | Creamy, highly pigmented |
| Nabi Retractable Waterproof Ey | — |
| IT Cosmetics Superhero No-Tug | Waterproof, long-wearing |
| 20-Piece Retractable Colored E | — |
| e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Ey | Creamy and highly pigmented |
| 8-Piece Retractable Eyeliner a | Waterproof and smudge-resistant |
| LANGMANNI 12-Color Matte Liqui | Fast-drying and pigmented |
| Retractable Eyeliner Pencils | — |
| NYX Waterproof Retractable Eye | — |
| Maybelline Unstoppable Waterpr | Waterproof and smudge-resistant |
| wet n wild Mega Last Breakup P | Satin gel |
| 12-Color Matte Gel Eyeliner Pe | Gel |
| Retractable Eyebrow and Eyelin | — |
| 12-Piece Retractable Eyeliner | Smooth, creamy |
| EVPCT 12-Color Matte Gel Eyeli | Soft, highly pigmented pencil |
More Details on Our Top Picks
NYX Professional Makeup Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil, Always Onyx
The NYX Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil is a strong pick for buyers who want black liner with a creamy glide and a twist-up format. Its highly pigmented formula suits both a clean lash-line definition and a more dramatic wing, while the retractable barrel removes the need to carry a sharpener. The brand describes it as designed to resist smudging in heat and humidity, though the supplied details include no measured wear time to compare that claim against other options. Unlike the Nabi 12-Pack, it is a single pencil without a built-in smudger or a bulk supply; in return, it keeps the choice simple if black is the shade you reach for most. Its main tradeoff is limited performance evidence beyond the product claims.
Pros:- Creamy formula is described as gliding smoothly for easier line application.
- Intense black pigment supports both defined lines and dramatic wings.
- Twist-up design needs no separate sharpener.
- Cruelty-free and PETA acknowledged.
Cons:- No wear-time measurements or independent performance details are provided.
- Only the Always Onyx black shade is specified.
- No built-in smudger is listed for blending.
Best for: Makeup users who want one retractable black pencil for smooth, high-pigment lines and do not need a multi-pencil set.
Not ideal for: Buyers seeking documented wear tests, several shades, or a built-in blending tool.
- Product type:Retractable eyeliner pencil
- Shade:Always Onyx
- Color:Black
- Formula:Creamy, highly pigmented
- Application:Twist-up; no sharpening required
- Brand:NYX Professional Makeup
- Animal testing:Cruelty-free; PETA acknowledged
Our verdict“Choose the NYX pencil for a straightforward, richly pigmented black liner, but pick the Nabi set if you want a smudger and multiple pencils.”
Nabi Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner Pencils, Black, 12-Pack
The Nabi 12-Pack is the lineup’s practical choice for anyone who uses black liner often, shares makeup, or wants backups on hand. Each pencil twists up without sharpening, and the set pairs a waterproof, smudge-resistant formula with a built-in smudger for softening a line soon after application. That makes it more versatile for blending than the single-pencil NYX Vivid Rich, though NYX emphasizes a creamy, highly pigmented finish rather than a bulk quantity. Nabi’s key compromise is color choice: all 12 pencils are black, so this set will not satisfy someone looking for variety like the 20-Piece Colored Set. There is also no separate blending brush listed, which limits the included blending tool to the pencil’s smudger.
Pros:- Twelve pencils provide a supply for sharing or keeping backups.
- Twist-up format avoids sharpening.
- Waterproof and smudge-resistant claims suit wear in wet or humid conditions.
- Built-in smudger allows quick blending.
Cons:- The set contains black pencils only.
- No separate blending brush is included.
- A 12-pencil set may be excessive for occasional liner users.
Best for: Frequent black-eyeliner users, makeup artists needing several matching pencils, and households that want a shareable set.
Not ideal for: Buyers who want varied shades, a dedicated blending brush, or just one pencil rather than a 12-pack.
- Brand:Nabi
- Product type:Retractable eyeliner pencils
- Color:Black
- Pack size:12 pencils
- Waterproof:Yes
- Smudge-proof:Yes
- Built-in smudger:Yes
- Sharpening required:No
Our verdict“Pick Nabi for a shareable stock of black pencils with built-in smudgers; choose the 20-Piece Colored Set if shade variety matters more.”
IT Cosmetics Superhero No-Tug Waterproof Retractable Eyeliner
The IT Cosmetics Superhero No-Tug Eyeliner stands out for buyers who prioritize a smooth pass over the lash line. Its formula is described as gliding without skipping or tugging, and the twist-up pencil needs no sharpener. Unlike the NYX Vivid Rich, which is specified here in Always Onyx black, IT Cosmetics offers Black, Brown, and Silk Taupe, giving shoppers more choice for subtle or softer definition. The waterproof, long-wearing formula sets after application, which can help keep a finished line in place but leaves less time for blending. Work quickly if you want a smudged look; the supplied details do not provide a specific set time or measured wear duration.
Pros:- Designed to glide smoothly without skipping or tugging.
- Waterproof, long-wearing formula is intended to resist smudging.
- Twist-up pencil requires no sharpening.
- Three listed shade options include black, brown, and taupe.
Cons:- Sets after application, so blending needs to happen promptly.
- The supplied details do not specify how long the formula takes to set.
- No measured wear-time data is provided.
Best for: People who find pencil liner prone to skipping or tugging and want a retractable formula in a choice of three shades.
Not ideal for: Buyers who prefer to blend slowly, need a large multi-shade set, or want a documented wear-time measurement.
- Type:Retractable eyeliner
- Formula:Waterproof, long-wearing
- Available shades:Black, Brown, Silk Taupe
- Application:Twist-up pencil; no sharpening required
- Blending:Can be blended immediately after applying
- Setting behavior:Sets after application
Our verdict“Choose IT Cosmetics for a smooth-gliding pencil with more shade choice than the NYX black-only option, provided you can blend promptly.”
20-Piece Retractable Colored Eyeliner Pencil Set
For shoppers who want more than a dependable black line, the 20-Piece Retractable Colored Eyeliner Set offers the broadest stated color range in this batch, including black, white, silver, blue, green, purple, red, and pink. The pencils are also described for use as eyeliner, eyeshadow, or highlighter, making the set better suited to creative looks and costume makeup than the focused black options from NYX or Nabi. That versatility comes with less performance clarity: the supplied information gives no independent wear details and no ingredient-safety information or guidance for sensitive eyes. Compared with IT Cosmetics’ three listed shades and set-after-application formula, this set gives more color options but less detail about how each shade performs or wears.
Pros:- Twenty pencils provide a broad assortment of colors.
- Listed shades include black, white, silver, blue, green, purple, red, and pink.
- Pencils can be used as eyeliner, eyeshadow, or highlighter.
- Described as easy to apply and quick-drying.
Cons:- Ingredient safety and suitability for sensitive eyes are not specified.
- Wear time and fading performance are not independently verified.
- The supplied details do not describe the formula or finish for each shade.
Best for: Creative makeup users, costume enthusiasts, and beginners who want many colors to experiment with across eye looks.
Not ideal for: People with sensitive eyes who need ingredient or suitability details, or anyone prioritizing verified wear performance over color variety.
- Quantity:20 pencils
- Type:Retractable colored eyeliner
- Colors:Assorted, including black, white, silver, blue, green, purple, red, and pink
- Uses:Eyeliner, eyeshadow, and highlighter
- Application description:Described as easy to apply
- Drying description:Described as quick-drying
Our verdict“Choose this set for color range and multi-use experimentation, not when detailed safety or wear information is your main priority.”
e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner, Black
The e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner makes the most sense for buyers who want one black pencil to do more than line the lash area. Its creamy, highly pigmented formula is designed for the lash line or waterline, and it can also serve as an eyelid eyeshadow base. That added use gives it an advantage over the NYX Vivid Rich, whose supplied description focuses on defined lines and wings. e.l.f. also lists the pencil as waterproof, vegan, and cruelty-free. The tradeoff is that the product details provide no wear-time measurement, and the listing specifies only black, unlike the three-shade IT Cosmetics pencil. Its multi-area use is useful, but shoppers seeking a range of colors should choose a set instead.
Pros:- Creamy, highly pigmented formula is designed for defined black color.
- Waterproof formula is intended for long-lasting wear.
- Can be applied to the lash line, waterline, or eyelid as a base.
- Listed as vegan and cruelty-free.
Cons:- Only black is specified.
- No wear-time measurements or independent performance details are provided.
- No built-in smudger or brush is listed.
Best for: Vegan and cruelty-free makeup users who want a pigmented black pencil for the lash line, waterline, and as an eyeshadow base.
Not ideal for: Shoppers seeking multiple shades or independent wear-time details before choosing a waterproof liner.
- Type:Retractable eyeliner pencil
- Color:Black
- Formula:Creamy and highly pigmented
- Waterproof:Yes
- Uses:Lash line, waterline, or eyelid as an eyeshadow base
- Vegan:Yes
- Cruelty-free:Yes
Our verdict“Pick e.l.f. for a versatile, vegan black pencil that can double as an eyeshadow base; choose IT Cosmetics for more listed shade options.”
8-Piece Retractable Eyeliner and Eyeshadow Stick Set
This set earns its place for buyers who want eight retractable sticks that work as eyeliner or eyeshadow, rather than a single-purpose liner. Matte and satin finishes give the colors more flexibility, while the twist-up format avoids sharpening. Compared with the NYX Waterproof Retractable Eyeliner, this set offers a broader assortment and more ways to use each stick, but NYX is the more focused choice if you want a single black liner. The formula is described as waterproof and smudge-resistant, though the product details do not verify how long it holds up in wear. Color quantities are also unspecified, so buyers cannot tell whether key shades are duplicated or evenly distributed.
Pros:- Eight sticks can be used as eyeliner or eyeshadow.
- Retractable format needs no sharpener.
- Includes matte and satin finishes.
- Waterproof and smudge-resistant wear is claimed.
Cons:- The number of sticks per color is not specified.
- Long-wear claims are not independently verified.
Best for: Makeup users who want a small assortment of retractable color sticks for both liner and shadow looks.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need a specific quantity of each shade or want independently confirmed long-wear performance.
- Quantity:8 pieces
- Uses:Eyeliner and eyeshadow
- Colors:Black, white, brown, blue, purple, green, and gray
- Formula:Waterproof and smudge-resistant
- Finish:Matte and satin
- Application:Retractable twist-up pencil
- Ethics:Vegan and cruelty-free
Our verdict“Choose this set if you want versatile color sticks for liner and shadow, but skip it if shade-by-shade quantities matter.”
LANGMANNI 12-Color Matte Liquid Eyeliner Set
The LANGMANNI set is the color-first pick for shoppers who prefer liquid eyeliner over a retractable pencil. Twelve shades, including classic and vivid colors, make it more suited to graphic or high-contrast looks than the 8-Piece Retractable Eyeliner and Eyeshadow Stick Set, whose sticks can also double as shadow. The tradeoff is format: this is a liquid liner, so it does not meet the retractable-pencil convenience that defines this roundup and may feel less forgiving for anyone who prefers a creamy pencil they can blend. Its fast-drying, matte formula is described as resistant to sweat, smudging, and flaking, but no specific wear duration or removal guidance is provided. I’d pick it for shade variety, not for retractable versatility.
Pros:- Offers 12 colors, from classic shades to vivid options.
- Fast-drying formula is designed for smooth, precise application.
- Designed to resist sweat, smudging, and flaking.
- Cruelty-free.
Cons:- Liquid format is not retractable, unlike the pencil-focused options in this roundup.
- Wear duration and removal details are not provided.
Best for: Makeup users who want many matte liquid-liner colors for graphic looks and do not require a retractable pencil.
Not ideal for: Shoppers specifically seeking a twist-up or retractable makeup pen, or a liner they can easily blend like a creamy pencil.
- Brand:LANGMANNI
- Product type:Liquid eyeliner
- Number of colors:12
- Finish:Matte
- Formula:Fast-drying and pigmented
- Wear claims:Designed to resist sweat, smudging, and flaking
- Cruelty-free:Yes
Our verdict“Choose LANGMANNI for a wide matte liquid-liner palette, but pass if retractable pencil convenience is your priority.”
Retractable Eyeliner Pencils, 20 Colors
With 20 retractable pencils and three suggested uses—eyeliner, eyeshadow, and highlighter—this is the broadest multi-use assortment in the group. It offers more sticks than the eight-piece two-in-one set and adds a highlighter role, which may help buyers build varied looks from one format. Matte and pearlescent finishes extend that range, while the creamy texture is intended to glide on and blend. The cost of that breadth is limited shade information: no names or color descriptions are supplied, making it difficult to judge the palette before buying. Wear is also described only as smudge-resistant and long-wearing, without a specific duration. Compared with the NYX Waterproof Retractable Eyeliner, this is a set for variety rather than a clearly defined everyday black-liner staple.
Pros:- Includes 20 retractable pencils.
- Pencils are intended for eyeliner, eyeshadow, and highlighter.
- Matte and pearlescent finishes support different looks.
- Creamy texture is designed to glide on and blend.
Cons:- Shade names and color descriptions are not listed.
- No specific wear-time details are provided.
- Large assortment may be excessive for shoppers who only need a daily liner.
Best for: Makeup users who want a large retractable assortment for experimenting with liner, shadow, and highlight looks.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need named, predictable shades or specific evidence about how long the pencils wear.
- Quantity:20 pencils
- Format:Retractable pencil
- Finishes:Matte and pearlescent
- Uses:Eyeliner, eyeshadow, and highlighter
- Texture:Creamy and designed to blend
- Wear claim:Described as smudge-resistant and long-wearing
Our verdict“Pick this set for a large, multi-use color assortment, but choose a single-shade option if you want a known everyday color.”
NYX Waterproof Retractable Eyeliner, MPE02 Black
This NYX pencil keeps the choice straightforward: one black retractable eyeliner with a creamy texture, intense pigmentation, and a waterproof formula. That focused format makes more sense for a regular black-liner wearer than the Retractable Eyeliner Pencils, 20 Colors, which offer broader variety but leave exact shade details unspecified. The creamy feel may appeal to buyers who prefer a smoother pencil application, while the retractable design avoids a separate sharpener. The tradeoff is that this listing gives little information beyond shade, texture, and lasting-wear intent; it does not specify a wear duration or describe additional uses such as eyeshadow. Buyers seeking a multi-shade kit or detailed performance guidance may prefer a set with more explicit specifications.
Pros:- Retractable format avoids the need for a separate sharpener.
- Creamy texture is designed for smooth application.
- Intense pigmentation is suited to defined black liner.
- Waterproof formula is specified.
Cons:- Only one shade is listed.
- No specific wear duration is provided.
Best for: People who want a single black retractable pencil with a creamy feel and a waterproof formula.
Not ideal for: Shoppers seeking multiple shades, multi-use sticks, or a specified wear duration.
- Color:MPE02 Black
- Type:Retractable eyeliner
- Waterproof:Yes
- Texture:Creamy
- Pigmentation:Intense
- Wear claim:Designed for lasting wear
Our verdict“Choose NYX for a straightforward waterproof black retractable liner, not for palette variety or detailed wear-time information.”
Maybelline Unstoppable Waterproof Mechanical Eyeliner Pencil, Onyx Black
Maybelline stands apart for buyers who prioritize eye-wear compatibility and a self-sharpening tip. The pencil is ophthalmologist tested and listed as suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers, details not provided for the NYX Waterproof Retractable Eyeliner. Its waterproof, smudge-resistant formula is claimed to wear for up to 24 hours, making it the more specification-rich choice for long-wear expectations. The tradeoff is a narrower focus: Onyx Black is the listed shade, though other shades are available, and there is no multi-use claim for shadow or highlight. It is a practical everyday option for shoppers who want black definition and a tip that refreshes itself, but the stated wear claim should not be treated as a guarantee for every wearer.
Pros:- Ophthalmologist tested and listed as suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.
- Self-sharpening tip reduces manual upkeep.
- Waterproof and smudge-resistant formula.
- Up-to-24-hour wear claim is provided.
Cons:- Onyx Black is the specified shade for this product listing.
- Long-wear duration is a product claim, not independently verified here.
Best for: Contact lens wearers and people with sensitive eyes looking for a self-sharpening waterproof mechanical liner.
Not ideal for: Shoppers who want a large color set, multi-use sticks, or a pencil with independently established wear performance.
- Brand:Maybelline
- Product type:Mechanical eyeliner pencil
- Shade:Onyx Black
- Formula:Waterproof and smudge-resistant
- Tip:Self-sharpening
- Wear claim:Up to 24 hours
- Suitable for:Sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
- Available shades:Onyx, Cinnabar, Pewter, Sapphire, and Espresso
Our verdict“Choose Maybelline for a self-sharpening black liner with sensitive-eye suitability details, while treating its long-wear claim as a guide rather than a guarantee.”
wet n wild Mega Last Breakup Proof Retractable Eyeliner, Black
For buyers who want a single dependable black retractable pencil rather than a color assortment, this wet n wild option has a more focused job than the 12-pencil sets in this roundup. Its satin-gel formula is described as gliding without tugging, which may suit delicate lids or quick, close-to-the-lash application. The standout claim is up to 16 hours of wear with resistance to water, smudging, flakes, tears, and humidity—useful in conditions where ordinary pencil can migrate. Compared with the 12-Color Matte Gel Eyeliner Pencil Set, it offers one black shade instead of creative range, but a clearer wear-time target. The tradeoff is limited versatility: there is no color choice, and the supplied details do not give a removal method or independent wear-test results.
Pros:- Single black shade suits classic everyday definition
- Satin-gel formula is described as gliding without tugging
- Waterproof and resistant to smudging, flakes, tears, and humidity
- Wear is stated as lasting up to 16 hours
Cons:- Only one shade is specified
- The stated wear duration is not accompanied by independent test details
- No removal instructions are provided in the product information
Best for: Buyers who mainly wear black eyeliner and want a retractable pencil described as resistant to water, tears, and humidity.
Not ideal for: Makeup users looking for multiple shades, a matte finish, or a pencil that doubles as brow, lip, or eyeshadow color.
- Product type:Retractable eyeliner
- Color:Black
- Formula:Satin gel
- Wear time:Up to 16 hours
- Water resistance:Waterproof
- Other wear claims:Smudge-proof, flake-proof, cry-proof, and humidity-proof
- Cruelty-free:Yes
- Vegan:Yes
Our verdict“Choose this for streamlined black definition and stated all-weather resistance, but pick a multi-color set if shade range matters more.”
12-Color Matte Gel Eyeliner Pencil Set
This set makes the strongest case for buyers who want 12 matte shades in retractable form and plan to change colors often. The gel formula is described as smooth-gliding, so it may be easier to apply than a drier pencil when building colorful looks. Its stated resistance to water, sweat, smudging, and transfer, along with a claim of up to 24-hour wear, gives it a longer advertised wear window than the wet n wild black pencil. That claim is promotional, though, and the product details provide neither wear-test evidence nor an ingredient list. Compared with the 12-Piece Retractable Eyeliner Pencil Set, this option is specifically described as matte gel and has a stated wear duration; buyers who prioritize documented shade names or clearer product details may prefer a more fully specified alternative.
Pros:- Includes 12 shades for varied everyday and creative looks
- Matte gel formula is described as smooth-gliding
- Designed to resist water, sweat, smudging, and transfer
- Described as vegan and cruelty-free
Cons:- The up-to-24-hour wear claim is not independently verified in the supplied details
- Ingredient information is not provided
- The individual shade names are not specified
Best for: Color-makeup enthusiasts who want a dozen matte retractable liners and value a stated long-wear claim.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need a detailed ingredient list, independently substantiated wear claims, or a single familiar everyday shade.
- Quantity:12 pencils
- Application:Retractable pencil
- Finish:Matte
- Formula:Gel
- Water resistance:Waterproof
- Other wear claims:Smudge-resistant
- Wear time:Up to 24 hours
- Vegan and cruelty-free:Yes
- Sensitive-eye suitability:Described as suitable for sensitive eyes
Our verdict“Pick this set for a broad matte color wardrobe, while treating its extended wear claim as unverified.”
Retractable Eyebrow and Eyeliner Pencil Set, 12 Pieces
This is the most flexible-use option in the group: the 12 retractable pencils are described for eyeliner, eyeshadow, and brows, rather than eyeliner alone. That breadth may appeal to shoppers who want to experiment across several parts of an eye look without buying separate pencil types. The formula is also described as quick-drying and water-resistant, a combination that could help reduce waiting between application and layering. But the listing gives no specific colors, finish, or wear duration, so it is harder to plan a coordinated palette than with the EVPCT 12-Color Matte Gel Eyeliner Pencil Set, which names its shades and uses. Its water-resistance and anti-allergy claims lack supporting detail as well. The replacement-or-refund offer is a seller policy, not a substitute for clearer product specifications.
Pros:- 12 pieces provide a multi-pencil assortment
- Designed for eyeliner, eyeshadow, and eyebrow makeup
- Described as quick-drying
- Water-resistant formula is claimed
Cons:- Specific colors and finishes are not listed
- No wear duration is provided
- Water-resistance and anti-allergy claims lack supporting detail
Best for: Curious makeup users who want a multi-pencil set for trying eyeliner, shadow, and brow looks without needing a defined shade palette.
Not ideal for: Shoppers who need named shades, a stated finish, clear wear-time expectations, or detailed evidence for sensitive-eye claims.
- Quantity:12 pieces
- Product type:Retractable makeup pencils
- Stated uses:Eyeliner, eyeshadow, and eyebrow makeup
- Formula feature:Quick-drying
- Water resistance:Described as water-resistant
- Wear time:Not specified
- Color details:Not specified
- Seller support:Replacement or refund offered if unsatisfied
Our verdict“Choose this for broad, exploratory use across eyes and brows, but select a better-specified set if shade planning or wear claims matter.”
12-Piece Retractable Eyeliner Pencil Set
For shoppers who want color variety without a sharpener, this set pairs 12 assorted shades with a retractable design. The listed colors include familiar choices such as black and brown alongside pink, purple, green, blue, and silver, making the palette easier to judge than the unspecified colors in the Retractable Eyebrow and Eyeliner Pencil Set. The creamy formula is also described for use as eyeliner, eyeshadow base, or lip liner, so it offers more creative flexibility than the single-shade wet n wild pencil. That versatility comes with a caveat: the description does not explain how well the pencils perform across those different areas, and it offers no wear duration or test details for the waterproof and smudge-resistant claims. There are also no pencil dimensions or full individual shade names to help with advance planning.
Pros:- 12 assorted colors include both neutrals and brighter shades
- Retractable design avoids sharpening
- Described for eyeliner, eyeshadow base, and lip liner
- Smooth, creamy formula is claimed to resist water and smudging
Cons:- No wear duration or wear-test details are provided
- Individual shade names are not fully specified
- Pencil dimensions are not listed
Best for: Makeup users who want a no-sharpening assortment of recognizable colors for experimenting with liner and other pencil-based looks.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need verified long wear, detailed shade-by-shade information, or a set with clearly documented performance for lip use.
- Quantity:12 pencils
- Design:Retractable
- Colors:12 assorted colors, including black, brown, pink, purple, green, blue, and silver
- Formula:Smooth, creamy
- Water resistance:Described as waterproof
- Other wear claim:Smudge-resistant
- Stated uses:Eyeliner, eyeshadow base, and lip liner
- Wear time:Not specified
Our verdict“Choose this for convenient, varied color and multi-use experimentation, not for a documented long-wear performance target.”
EVPCT 12-Color Matte Gel Eyeliner Pencil Set
EVPCT stands apart from the other sets by spelling out a notably broad color list and promoting use beyond the eyes: these pencils are intended for eyeliner, lips, eyeshadow, and brows. That makes the set appealing to creative users who want one assortment for several makeup techniques. Its soft, highly pigmented matte pencils are described as applying smoothly and resisting water and smudging; unlike the 12-Color Matte Gel Eyeliner Pencil Set, the listing names shades such as white, yellow, auburn, cyan, and pink. Still, neither product provides independent wear verification, and EVPCT gives no wear duration at all. The multi-area claim also calls for caution: the supplied details do not explain which shades or formula properties suit each use. Removal is specified as requiring makeup remover, adding a step compared with a simple rinse-off product.
Pros:- 12 matte colors include a wide variety of named shades
- Soft pencil formula is described as smooth to apply
- Designed for eyeliner, lip liner, eyeshadow, and brows
- Waterproof and smudge-resistant claims support longer-wearing looks
Cons:- No wear duration or independent wear-test details are provided
- The listing does not clarify which colors are intended for each use
- Makeup remover is specified for removal
Best for: Creative makeup users who want a named assortment of matte colors for experimenting across eyes, lips, and brows.
Not ideal for: Shoppers seeking a stated wear duration, detailed guidance on using each shade across different areas, or easy water-only removal.
- Quantity:12 pencils
- Finish:Matte
- Colors:White, black, green, blue, yellow, orange, auburn, palm, purple, coffee, cyan, and pink
- Formula:Soft, highly pigmented pencil
- Stated uses:Eyeliner, lip liner, eyeshadow, and eyebrow pencil
- Water resistance:Described as waterproof
- Other wear claim:Smudge-resistant
- Removal:Removable with makeup remover
- Wear time:Not specified
Our verdict“Pick EVPCT for a clearly named, multi-use matte palette, but skip it if you need a documented wear window or simple removal.”
How We Picked
I compared the 15 options by how closely each matches the core promise of a retractable makeup pen: a portable, twist-up format that is straightforward to apply and store. I gave more weight to clear, dedicated eyeliner choices than to kits whose broad assortment or extra product types make it harder to judge them as eyeliner-first purchases. Formula claims such as waterproof or no-budge performance were treated as useful distinctions, not guarantees that every product will wear the same on every person.
The ranking favors options with a clear role, practical usability, and a format that fits the named product. Single pencils rise when they serve everyday liner needs without unnecessary extras; sets rank higher for shoppers who value color choice or multi-use tools. I also considered the tradeoffs buyers may face around assortment size, application format, and whether a specialty product is a good match for their routine. Since individual fit and wear can vary, this guide focuses on product positioning and decision-making rather than claiming hands-on performance results.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Retractable Makeup Pens
Before choosing a retractable makeup pen, decide what job it needs to do in your routine. The right pick depends less on the number of pencils in a box than on your preferred look, application habits, and tolerance for upkeep.
Choose the format you actually want to apply
Retractable pencil, gel pencil, and liquid liner are not interchangeable formats. A pencil is generally the more natural fit for soft definition or smudging, while liquid liner calls for a steadier, more graphic application style. A kit that combines eyeliner and eyeshadow sticks offers flexibility, but it may not replace a dedicated liner if you want a fine, consistent line. Check the product name and format closely before comparing set sizes. A common mistake is assuming every retractable item in a roundup behaves like a standard eye pencil. If you prefer a familiar pencil routine, prioritize pencil listings over liquid sets.
Match the formula claim to your wear and removal routine
Waterproof and no-budge language can help narrow a shortlist if your makeup needs to last through long days or watery eyes. Those claims do not tell you whether a formula will feel comfortable, work well on your preferred area, or come off easily at the end of the day. Stronger staying power can call for a more deliberate removal routine, so factor that into daily use. If you prefer easy cleanup or frequently change your look, a less tenacious option may be more convenient. Avoid choosing a formula based only on the boldest wear claim. Your routine should balance staying power with the effort you are willing to spend removing it.
Buy color variety only when you will use it
Large pencil sets can make experimenting with color more convenient, but the count alone does not establish that a set is a better buy for you. Think about how often you wear non-neutral shades and whether you want several colors available at once. If black or brown liner covers nearly every occasion, a focused single pencil can keep your routine simpler. Sets with many similar shades may offer less practical variety than their packaging suggests. Before choosing a large assortment, check that its listed colors and formats fit the looks you actually wear. A smaller selection can be the more useful choice when it reduces unused products.
Consider precision, tip control, and sharpening needs
A retractable format removes the need for a conventional sharpener, which can be handy for travel and quick touch-ups. It does not automatically mean every tip will give the same level of precision. Buyers who draw fine lines should look for a slim pencil format and use a light hand; those who prefer a softer or bolder look may be more comfortable with a broader application. Avoid twisting up more product than needed, since exposed tips can be easier to damage. For close-to-lash application, control matters more than how many shades come in the package. If a listing gives little detail about tip shape, treat that as a point to check before buying.
Treat multi-use kits as a convenience tradeoff
Products that combine brow and eyeliner pencils, or eyeliner and eyeshadow sticks, can make a compact routine easier to pack. The compromise is that a multi-use kit may not give every product the same role-specific performance as a dedicated pencil. Decide whether you value fewer items in your bag or a more focused tool for each task. Check which pieces are included rather than assuming every item in a set is an eyeliner. For a first makeup kit, a mixed set can be a practical way to explore formats, but it may add options you do not need. If liner is your only priority, keep the comparison centered on dedicated eyeliner products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I choose a single retractable eyeliner or a multi-color set?
Choose a single pencil if you have a dependable everyday shade and want a simpler routine. A set makes more sense if you regularly wear different colors or want several options for experimenting with eye looks. The 20-color and 12-color products in this roundup offer breadth, while focused picks such as the NYX and Maybelline pencils keep the choice centered on one shade. Do not let the number of pieces decide for you; consider how many shades you will reach for. If most of a set would sit unused, a dedicated pencil is the more practical match.
Are waterproof retractable pencils the right choice for everyday wear?
They can be, particularly if longer wear is a higher priority than quick removal. Waterproof claims appear on options such as IT Cosmetics Superhero and Maybelline Unstoppable, but individual wear and comfort can vary. Think about how you remove eye makeup as well as how long you want it to stay in place. If you prefer an easy end-of-day routine, a less tenacious formula may suit you better. For everyday use, the best match is the one whose wear claims fit your habits without adding unwanted cleanup effort.
Is the LANGMANNI matte liquid eyeliner set a substitute for retractable pencils?
Not for buyers specifically seeking a pencil-style application. LANGMANNI is listed as a matte liquid eyeliner set, so its format calls for a different application approach from the retractable pencil products here. It may suit someone who wants a liquid-liner look and a selection of shades. If you prefer a twist-up pencil for quick, softer definition, compare it with the dedicated pencil options instead. Read the product format carefully before purchase, since the word “retractable” in a roundup does not make every listed item function alike.
What should a beginner prioritize when choosing a retractable makeup pen?
A beginner may find a single dedicated pencil easier to understand than a large kit with several formulas and shades. Start by choosing the look you want, then decide whether a wear-focused option or a basic everyday pencil better fits your routine. The e.l.f. No Budge and NYX single-pencil options are more focused choices than mixed sets that include other product types. A large assortment can be appealing, but it also gives you more products to learn and store. Pick a format you can apply comfortably before expanding into specialty colors or multi-use kits.
How should I choose between an eyeliner pencil and a brow-and-eyeliner set?
Choose a dedicated eyeliner if your main goal is eye definition and you want a product category that matches that job. The brow-and-eyeliner set is more appealing if you value having tools for more than one part of your routine in one package. Multi-use convenience can come with compromises, so check which products are included and whether you actually need both functions. Do not assume that a combined set will be the strongest option for precise eyeliner just because it contains an eyeliner item. If you mainly need liner, the focused pencil choices are easier to compare directly.
Conclusion
For an all-around focused pick, I would start with the NYX Professional Makeup Vivid Rich Mechanical Eye Pencil; it keeps the choice centered on a single retractable eyeliner. For value through variety, compare the 20-Piece Retractable Colored Eyeliner Pencil Set with the 12-color sets, choosing by the shades and formats you will actually use rather than piece count. The best premium-oriented choice in this lineup is IT Cosmetics Superhero for buyers drawn to a waterproof retractable option, while beginners may prefer a single pencil such as e.l.f. No Budge over a large assortment. For specific needs, choose Maybelline Unstoppable when waterproof mechanical eyeliner is the priority, the eyeliner-and-eyeshadow set for mixed-format convenience, or the brow-and-eyeliner set if you want more than one function. Match the format and formula to your routine first; color count comes after that.
