Contents
Finding the best cheap highlighters can be tough. The BIC Brite Liner Highlighters are our top pick because they come in a 5-count pack with assorted fluorescent colors, perfect for students. Sharpie Pocket Highlighters are a great value option. They offer 12 colors but lack the same boldness as the BIC set.
The main choice for buyers is between the vibrant colors of BIC and the larger pack size of Sharpie. This article will help you compare features and find the best option for your needs.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Highlighters Reviewed in Detail
This article reviews several highlighters to guide your purchase. Each product has unique features suited for different tasks.
1. Editor’s Choice
BIC Brite Liner Highlighters, Chisel Tip, 5-Count Pack, Assorted Colors
- BUY A BIC AND WE’LL GIVE A BIC: This back to school season, when you purchase BIC highlighters, we will donate one to teachers and classrooms in need
- BACK TO SCHOOL ESSENTIAL: One 5-count pack of BIC Brite Liner Highlighters in assorted fluorescent colors, sized right for a student’s backpack, pencil case, or a teacher’s classroom supply drawer
- BUILT FOR STUDENTS: Chisel tip highlights broad lines across textbook passages or fine-underlines key terms in notes, making it the right tool for studying, test prep, and everyday class work
- TRANSLUCENT INK THAT STAYS OUT OF THE WAY: Ink emphasizes what matters on the page without covering the text below, so students can highlight and still read every word they marked
- LONG-LASTING INK: Each highlighter writes up to eight hours without drying out, even with the cap left off, so a 5-pack carries students from the first day of school through the end of the semester
The BIC Brite Liner Highlighters are an excellent choice for students and professionals alike. They come in a pack of five with assorted fluorescent colors, making them bright and easy to see on the page. The chisel tip allows for wide and narrow lines, offering versatility for different tasks. Compared to other picks, they stand out due to their reliable ink quality and vibrant colors. The only limitation is that the pack size may not suffice for heavy users who need more colors.
In comparison to the Sharpie Pocket Highlighters, which offer 12 colors, the BIC pack provides a better ink quality. The BIC highlighters are also more comfortable to hold for longer periods. However, some buyers may prefer the larger pack size of the Sharpie for extensive projects. Ultimately, the BIC Brite Liner Highlighters are a solid choice for those who want dependable performance.
The main drawback is that if you need a broader color range, you may need to purchase additional packs. This could be a disadvantage for those who like to color-code extensively. However, if you prioritize bright and high-quality ink, the BIC Brite Liner is a great pick.
Pros
- Comes in a pack of five assorted fluorescent colors.
- Chisel tip allows for wide and narrow highlighting.
- Reliable ink quality that is bright and easy to see.
Cons
- Pack size may be insufficient for heavy users.
- Limited color options compared to larger packs.
Best for: Students and professionals looking for vibrant colors. Not ideal for: Users needing a larger variety of colors in one pack.
A dependable choice for bright and effective highlighting.
2. Runner-Up
Sharpie Pocket Highlighters, Chisel Tip, Assorted Colored Highlighters, Essential Teacher and Office Supplies, Classroom Must Haves, Smear-Resistant, 12-Pack
- VERSATILE TIP: Chisel tip offers both wide highlighting and fine underlining for versatile use
- SMEAR-RESISTANT: Quick-drying ink keeps notes and documents clean and easy to read
- ASSORTED COLORS: Highlighters with vibrant colors help with color-coding and efficient organization
- ON-THE-GO WITH YOU: Compact pocket size with clip for easy portability and on-the-go access
- Includes 12 highlighters: pink, cherry, bright orange, marigold, yellow, lime green, green, turquoise, light blue, sapphire, purple, and iris
The Sharpie Pocket Highlighters are a fantastic runner-up choice. They come in a pack of 12 assorted colors, perfect for those who need variety. The chisel tip allows for both wide highlighting and fine underlining, catering to different needs. Their smear-resistant feature ensures notes remain clean and legible. Compared to the BIC Brite Liner, these highlighters excel in pack size but might not match the ink vibrancy.
While the BIC highlighters are known for their bright colors, the Sharpie Pocket offers more options for color coding. the compact size makes them easy to carry around. However, some users may find the ink intensity less vibrant than what they prefer. They are ideal for those who need to color-code notes or documents.
The significant downside for these highlighters is their compact size, which can limit the amount of ink they contain. If you do a lot of highlighting, you may run out quicker than with larger highlighters. Nonetheless, if you want a variety of colors in a portable format, these are a solid choice.
Pros
- Comes with 12 assorted colors for better organization.
- Chisel tip provides versatility for highlighting and underlining.
- Smear-resistant feature keeps notes tidy and clean.
Cons
- Ink may not be as vibrant as other brands.
- Compact size may lead to quicker depletion of ink.
Best for: Users who need a variety of colors for organization. Not ideal for: Those who prefer more intense ink vibrancy.
A great option for those who value variety and portability.
3. Best Lightweight
Sharpie Tank Highlighters, Assorted Colors, Chisel Tip, Back to School Essentials, Teacher & Office Supplies, Smear-Resistant, 12-Pack
- Versatile Chisel Tip: Chisel tip highlights and underlines both wide and narrow lines for versatile use
- Long-Lasting Study Sessions: Large ink supply ensures long-lasting performance
- Clean Highlighting: Quick-drying ink resists smearing, keeping notes and documents clean and readable
- Bold & Bright: Assorted bright colors help organize information and make important details stand out
- Ideal for back to school supplies, teacher supplies, and everyday office tasks
The Sharpie Tank Highlighters are designed for long study sessions. They come in a pack of 12 with assorted colors, ensuring you have a choice for any task. The chisel tip allows for both broad highlighting and fine underlining. Their large ink supply ensures long-lasting performance, making them ideal for students or professionals alike. Compared to the Sharpie Pocket, these highlighters provide a better ink capacity, which is beneficial for heavy users.
While the Sharpie Tank offers more ink, it might lack the compact size of the Pocket version. Users may find them less portable but appreciate the longevity of the ink supply. The colors are bright and vibrant, similar to the BIC, making them suitable for clear highlighting. However, they may take up more space in a pencil case.
The limitation of this highlighter is its size, which may not suit those who prefer compact writing tools. If you’re looking for highlighters that last longer during heavy use, this is a great choice. However, if portability is a key concern, you might want to consider smaller options.
Pros
- Large ink supply for long-lasting use.
- Chisel tip allows for both wide and narrow highlighting.
- Assorted bright colors ensure clear visibility.
Cons
- Larger size may not fit in small pencil cases.
- Less portable than some other options.
Best for: Users needing long-lasting highlighters for extensive use. Not ideal for: Those who prioritize compactness.
A reliable choice for extended highlighting sessions.
4. Best for Beginners
Sharpie Clear View Highlighter Sticks, Chisel Tip Highlighter Market Set, Essential School & Teacher Supplies, Smear Resistant, Assorted Color Highlighters,…
- CLEAR VIEW TIP: Highlighter with a see-through tip for neat, even strokes
- DUAL-PURPOSE CHISEL TIP: Allows a quick switch between wide and narrow lines
- ULTRA-VIVID INK: High visibility ink that stands out on the page
- SMEAR-RESISTANT: Resists smearing of many pen and marker inks
- COMES IN A PACK: Contains 8 assorted color stick highlighters
- VERSATILITY: Ideal for offices, classrooms, Bible studies, and everyday use
- DURABLE: Built to last, providing consistent performance and bold colors
The Sharpie Clear View Highlighter Sticks are unique with their see-through tip. This design helps you see the text while highlighting, ensuring neat and even strokes. They come in an 8-pack with assorted colors, making them a good choice for students and teachers alike. Compared to the Sharpie Tank, they offer more visibility while highlighting but with fewer colors overall. Their dual-purpose chisel tip allows for both wide and narrow strokes, adding to their versatility.
These highlighters stand out for their clear view design, making them especially suitable for detailed work. However, the pack size is smaller, which may not meet the needs of users requiring more colors. The colors are vibrant and smear-resistant, much like other Sharpie products, keeping your notes clean.
A potential limitation is the smaller pack size which could be inadequate for users who want a broader variety of colors. If you often highlight over text and need precision, these are perfect. However, if you need many colors in one pack, you may want to look for larger options.
Pros
- See-through tip allows for precise highlighting.
- Colors are vibrant and easy to see.
- Dual-purpose chisel tip offers versatile highlighting options.
Cons
- Smaller pack size may not be enough for some users.
- Limited color variety compared to larger packs.
Best for: Students who need precision while highlighting. Not ideal for: Users requiring a larger variety of colors.
A great choice for clear and precise highlighting.
5. Best Design
Sharpie Accent Tank-Style Highlighters, Assorted Colors, 4 Count – Back to School, Desk Supplies
- Sharpie Tank Highlighters with wide barrel and large ink supply that delivers dependable highlighting
- Bright fluorescent ink stands out on the page
- Narrow chisel tip great for highlighting, underlining, and writing notes
- Resists smearing (let ink dry before highlighting)
- Includes 4 highlighters in assorted colors
The Sharpie Accent Tank-Style Highlighters offer a sleek design with a wide barrel. They come in a pack of four assorted colors, making them both stylish and functional. The chisel tip allows for versatile highlighting and underlining. Compared to the Sharpie Tank, this option is more portable but with fewer colors. Their bright fluorescent ink stands out well on the page, ensuring visibility.
This design is great for those who want a comfortable grip while writing. However, the smaller quantity may not satisfy heavy users. The ink dries quickly, reducing the risk of smearing, compared to some other options. While they are stylish, their limited number of colors may leave users wanting more variety.
One limitation is that if you prefer a broader range of colors, these might not be sufficient. They are well-suited for students who want a compact and stylish highlighter, but those looking for more extensive color options may need to consider larger packs.
Pros
- Sleek design with a comfortable grip.
- Quick-drying ink reduces smearing.
- Chisel tip offers versatile highlighting options.
Cons
- Only includes four colors.
- May not satisfy heavy users needing more options.
Best for: Users who want a stylish, comfortable highlighter. Not ideal for: Those needing a wider color selection.
A stylish and functional option for everyday use.
6. Best Budget
Sharpie Tank Highlighters, Chisel Tip, Fluorescent Yellow, 12 Count
- Sharpie Tank Highlighters with wide barrel and large ink supply that delivers dependable highlighting
- Bright ink stands out on the page
- Versatile chisel tip great for highlighting, underlining, and writing notes
- Resists smearing (let ink dry before highlighting)
- Includes 12 highlighters
The Sharpie Tank Highlighter in fluorescent yellow is a solid budget choice. It includes 12 highlighters, providing ample ink supply for extensive use. The chisel tip allows for versatile highlighting and underlining. Compared to other models, this option is simple yet effective, focusing on essential functions without frills. The bright color ensures visibility, perfect for important notes.
While this model is budget-friendly, it may lack the variety of colors found in other packs. Yet, it excels in durability and performance. The ink dries quickly, which helps keep your notes clean. Some users may find the lack of color variety limiting, but those who prioritize function over choice will appreciate this pick.
The major downside is the limited color selection. If you need a variety, this option may not suit you. However, if you are seeking a reliable highlighter at a low cost, this one meets your needs well.
Pros
- Includes 12 highlighters for extensive use.
- Chisel tip allows for versatile highlighting.
- Bright fluorescent yellow is easy to see.
Cons
- Limited to just one color.
- Not suitable for users needing multiple colors.
Best for: Budget-conscious users needing basic highlighting. Not ideal for: Those wanting a variety of colors.
A dependable budget choice for basic highlighting needs.
7. Best Premium
Zebra Pen MILDLINER No Bleed Highlighter, Assorted, Dual Tip, 5-Pack
- Dual-Tip Highlighters for Study, Teaching & Creativity: Each Mildliner includes a broad chisel tip for highlighting and a fine bullet tip for underlining, grading papers, hand lettering, and detail work in notes, planners, and creative layouts.
- No-Bleed Ink Ideal for Bible Highlighting: Soft, translucent ink is designed to minimize bleed-through on thin pages, making these highlighters well suited for Bible study, devotionals, scripture journaling, and margin notes.
- Excellent for Creative Use & Layering: Water-resistant pigment ink allows colors to be layered once dry without smearing, making Mildliners ideal for bullet journaling, hand lettering, scrapbooking, planners, and other creative projects.
- Great for Teachers, Classrooms & School Supplies: A favorite among teachers and students for lesson planning, grading, color-coding, and organizing materials, these highlighters bring clarity and creativity to everyday school tasks.
- Convenient 5-Pack with Color-Coded Clips: Includes five assorted Mildliner highlighters with matching clips for easy organization and quick selection, offering a versatile set for classrooms, offices, creative spaces, and home use.
The Zebra Pen MILDLINER is a premium option known for its dual-tip feature. This pack includes five highlighters with soft, no-bleed ink that is ideal for various tasks. The broad chisel tip is perfect for highlighting, while the fine bullet tip is great for underlining or detailed work. Compared to other options, these highlighters provide more versatility, making them suitable for artists and students alike.
These highlighters stand out for their gentle, pastel colors that are easy on the eyes. Unlike some fluorescent options, they provide a softer look while still being effective. The dual-tip feature adds significant value, allowing users to switch styles easily. However, the pastel colors may not be ideal for those who prefer brighter highlights.
One limitation is the smaller pack size of five, which may not suffice for users who want a wider color selection. If you prioritize soft colors and dual tips, these might be your best choice. However, if you need bold and vibrant options, you may need to look elsewhere.
Pros
- Dual-tip feature for highlighting and underlining.
- Soft, no-bleed ink is gentle and easy on paper.
- Pastel colors provide a unique alternative.
Cons
- Only includes five colors.
- May not be bright enough for some users.
Best for: Users looking for versatile dual-tip options. Not ideal for: Those preferring bold, vibrant colors.
A unique choice for those who appreciate soft colors and versatility.
8. Best Compact
Mr. Pen- Aesthetic Highlighters No Bleed, 8 Pack, Candy Colors | Chisel Tip, Cute Highlighters Assorted Colors for Journaling, Highlighting, Underlining,…
- Make your notes and papers pop with our soft and gentle highlighters! This package includes 8 highlighters in assorted colors. Our highlighters are perfect for making your work and school life a little bit brighter.
- The highlighters feature durable, quick-drying ink to prevent smears and smudges. The ink is also resistant to fading so your work stays clean and clear for longer.
- Our highlighters are comfortable and easy to hold without a sore hand & don’t roll around while using. The versatile chisel tip efficiently produces wide and narrow lines.
- Mr. Pen highlighters are perfect for highlighting your scriptures, notes, journals, or any books you want to read with bright and vibrant colors.
- These cute highlighters are suitable for school, college, home, office, even travel diary, schedule, work, study, notes, etc. They are also wonderful gifts for family and friends.
- Ingredients: Water, Xanthan Gum, Glycerol, Color Pigment, Ethelyn Glycol
The Mr. Pen Aesthetic Highlighters are designed for both style and functionality. This 8-pack features candy colors, making them visually appealing for those who like to add a pop to their notes. The chisel tip allows for easy highlighting, while the quick-drying ink prevents smudging. Compared to other options, these highlighters are fun and colorful, perfect for students who want to brighten their study materials.
These highlighters stand out for their aesthetic appeal, making them suitable for journaling or creative projects. The assorted colors provide good variety, but they may not be as intense in ink quality as others. Nonetheless, they offer reliable performance for everyday use. Some users might find the colors less vibrant than more traditional options.
The main downside is that while they look great, the ink quality may not match higher-tier brands. If you value aesthetics alongside functionality, these are a great pick. However, if you need strong, vibrant color, you may want to explore other choices.
Pros
- Includes eight candy-colored highlighters.
- Chisel tip for easy highlighting.
- Quick-drying ink prevents smudging.
Cons
- Ink quality may not be as strong as others.
- Colors might not be vibrant enough for everyone.
Best for: Students who enjoy colorful and fun highlighters. Not ideal for: Those needing high ink intensity.
A stylish option for brightening up your notes and projects.
Highlighters Compared Side by Side
The comparison table below shows key features of each highlighter. You can see the number of colors, tip types, and other important specs. If you’re after the best cheap highlighters, checking the details will help you pick the right one.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BIC Brite Liner Highlighters | Editor's Choice | BIC Corporation | $2.37 | Check |
| 2 | Sharpie Pocket Highlighters | Runner-Up | SANFORD | $7.22 | Check |
| 3 | Sharpie Tank Highlighters | Best Lightweight | Newell Brands | $6.99 | Check |
| 4 | Sharpie Clear View Highlighter Sticks | Best for Beginners | Newell Rubbermaid Office | $13.15 | Check |
| 5 | Sharpie Accent Tank-Style Highlighters | Best Design | Sharpie | $2.97 | Check |
| 6 | Sharpie Tank Highlighters | Best Budget | Sharpie | $6.92 | Check |
| 7 | Zebra Pen MILDLINER No Bleed Highlighter | Best Premium | Zebra Pen | $6.07 | Check |
| 8 | Mr. Pen- Aesthetic Highlighters No Bleed | Best Compact | Mr. Pen | $5.99 | Check |
| 9 | BIC Brite Liner Grip Pastel Highlighter Set | — | BIC CORP. | $4.97 | Check |
| 10 | Sharpie Tank Highlighters | — | Sharpie | $16.48 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from manufacturer websites, user reviews, and online retail listings. This way, we ensured that all details are accurate and up-to-date.
How we built this shortlist
We looked at over 30 highlighter options, focusing on user ratings and popularity. Products that had low ratings or poor reviews were filtered out.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded any highlighters that had issues like leaking ink or low durability. Products with less than a 4-star average rating were also removed.
What we did not do
We did not conduct any hands-on testing or lab measurements. All our conclusions are based on online data and user feedback, ensuring transparency.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated every three months or sooner if new products are released. We aim to keep it relevant and accurate for readers.
What to look for
Ink Quality
Good ink quality is essential for highlighters. Look for quick-drying ink to avoid smudging. This is especially important for students or anyone taking notes. Smear-resistant ink keeps your notes clean and readable. Brands like Sharpie and BIC provide high-quality ink that dries fast.
Tip Type
Choose highlighters with chisel tips for versatility. A chisel tip allows for both wide and narrow lines. This feature is useful for different tasks, like highlighting or underlining. Some highlighters, like the Zebra Pen MILDLINER, offer dual tips for added flexibility.
Number of Colors
Consider how many colors you need. A larger pack, like the Sharpie Pocket Highlighters with 12 colors, is good for color-coding notes. Fewer colors, like the BIC Brite Liner with five, may suffice for simple tasks. Think about your organization style when choosing.
Size and Portability
Some highlighters are designed to be compact and portable. If you need to carry them in a backpack, choose smaller options like Sharpie Pocket Highlighters. Larger highlighters may be harder to take on-the-go but could offer better ink supply and comfort.
Price vs. Quality
Find a balance between price and quality. Cheaper highlighters might save money but could have lower ink quality. On the other hand, pricier options may offer better performance. Aim for the best cheap highlighters that provide a good mix of both.
How to Choose Highlighters
Determine Your Usage
Think about how you will use your highlighters. If you are a student, you may need vibrant colors for class notes. For office use, softer colors might be better for presentations. Knowing your main purpose will help narrow down your choices.
Look for Smear-Resistant Options
Smear-resistant ink is important if you write quickly. This feature prevents smudging and keeps your notes neat. Brands like Sharpie offer quick-drying ink, making them ideal for busy students or professionals.
Consider the Tip Size
The tip size affects your highlighting style. Chisel tips provide versatility for both broad highlighting and fine underlining. If you often switch between tasks, look for highlighters with a chisel tip for flexibility.
Check the Color Variety
Having a variety of colors helps in organizing notes. Highlighters with multiple colors allow for better color coding. Look for packs with at least eight colors to enhance your note-taking experience.
Evaluate Price and Value
While searching for the best cheap highlighters, compare prices and features. Sometimes spending a little more can get you higher quality. Check if the cost matches the quantity and durability to ensure good value.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best cheap highlighters?
The best cheap highlighters include BIC Brite Liner and Sharpie Pocket Highlighters. They offer vibrant colors and good performance.
Are smear-resistant highlighters worth it?
Yes, smear-resistant highlighters are worth it if you write quickly. They help keep your notes clean and legible.
How many colors should I look for?
Look for at least five colors to start. More colors help with organizing notes and adding variety.
Do tip sizes matter?
Yes, tip sizes matter. Chisel tips offer more flexibility for both highlighting and writing, making them more versatile.
Can I use highlighters on any paper?
Most highlighters work well on standard paper. However, some may bleed through thin paper, so check the ink type.
Shopping around? We have 18 more highlighters guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- EPA indoor air quality U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- EPA mold guidance U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
About the author
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