Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Mechanical Pencils Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Top Pick
- 2. Best Design
- 3. Best Compact
- 4. Runner-Up
- 5. Best Splurge
- 6. Best for Small Spaces
- 7. Best Heavy-Duty
- 8. Best Value
- Mechanical Pencils Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Mechanical Pencils
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
You might be wondering which are the best cheap mechanical pencils. The BIC Xtra Smooth Mechanical Pencil, with its 0.7 mm medium point and 40-count pack, is our top pick. It provides a smooth writing experience and is a great choice for students or anyone needing multiple pencils. For those looking to save, the BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils in a 10-count pack offers fewer pencils, trading quantity for lower cost.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Mechanical Pencils Reviewed in Detail
Below, we will review each mechanical pencil choice in detail.
1. Top Pick
BIC Xtra Smooth Mechanical Pencil, 0.7 mm Medium Point, 40-Count Pack
- BUY A BIC AND WE’LL GIVE A BIC: This back to school season, when you purchase BIC pencils, we will donate one to teachers and classrooms in need
- BACK TO SCHOOL ESSENTIAL: A 40-count pack sized for the first day of school and the whole year ahead, whether you’re stocking a backpack, a pencil case, or a classroom supply drawer
- BUILT FOR STUDENTS: The 0.7 mm medium point is the standard for everyday schoolwork, note-taking, homework, and standardized tests, always sharp with no sharpener needed
- SMUDGE-RESISTANT LEAD: Graphite lays down cleanly and erases without leaving marks behind, so finished work looks neat whether you’re a leftie or a rightie
- REFILLABLE AND RETRACTABLE: Replace the lead and eraser when they run out instead of buying a new pencil, so one pack goes further throughout the school year
- THE #1 SELLING MECHANICAL PENCIL BRAND IN THE U.S.: BIC has been trusted by students and teachers for decades, making it a reliable choice for any school supply list
The BIC Xtra Smooth Mechanical Pencil offers a 0.7 mm medium point and comes in a 40-count pack. This makes it a practical choice for students or anyone who frequently writes. Its smooth performance makes it a go-to option for everyday use. Compared to other picks, it provides the highest quantity at a low cost. The only limitation might be that not everyone needs forty pencils, which could lead to waste if you don’t use them all. Still, its reliable performance and availability make it an excellent choice for many users.
Pros
- BIC Xtra Smooth Mechanical Pencil: Comes in a 40-count pack, great for school and home use.
- BIC Xtra-Smooth: Includes 10 pencils with high-quality lead that writes smoothly and erases well.
- BIC Xtra Smooth Bright Edition: Features a vibrant design with a pack of 40 for students.
- Paper Mate Clearpoint: Offers precise writing with easy lead control and a comfortable grip.
- BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel: Contains 24 pastel pencils that look fun while providing quality performance.
- BIC Xtra Strong: Features a thick 0.9mm lead, perfect for bold writing without the need for sharpening.
- Paper Mate SharpWriter: Includes 36 pencils with a shock-absorbing tip to reduce lead breakage.
- Paper Mate Clearpoint Black Barrels: Offers a stylish design with a soft grip for better control.
Cons
- 40 pencils in a pack may not be needed for all users.
- Lacks a variety of colors.
Best for: students needing multiple pencils.
Not ideal for: those who prefer fewer pencils.
The BIC Xtra Smooth Mechanical Pencil is great for anyone looking to stock up on reliable writing tools.
2. Best Design
BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils, Medium Point, 0.7mm, 10-Count Pack
- One 10-count pack of BIC Xtra-Smooth No. 2 Mechanical Pencils With Erasers
- Versatile 0.7mm medium point is ideal for a variety of everyday writing activities and a great addition to school supplies
- BIC pencils with high-quality lead that doesn’t smudge and erases cleanly, so your work looks neat and professional
- These lead pencils are always ready and never need sharpening; to advance the lead, simply click the built-in eraser
- Great automatic pencil for school, with No. 2 lead that’s compatible with most standardized tests
The BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils come in a convenient 10-count version. Each pencil features a 0.7 mm medium point, making it versatile for various writing tasks. Compared to the larger pack, this option is suitable for those who don’t need as many pencils. It offers excellent quality, with lead that doesn’t smudge and erases cleanly, ensuring your work looks neat. However, the tradeoff is that you will get fewer pencils for the same quality. This is a great pick if you only need a few pencils for occasional use.
Pros
- Includes versatile 0.7 mm medium point.
- High-quality lead that erases cleanly.
- Perfect for everyday writing tasks.
Cons
- The smaller pack has fewer pencils.
- May not have the same smoothness as top pick.
Best for: students who need fewer pencils.
Not ideal for: those needing a large supply.
The BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils in a 10-count pack are a solid choice for light users.
3. Best Compact
BIC Xtra Smooth Bright Edition Mechanical Pencils, 0.7 mm Medium Point, Bulk School Supplies for Students and Teachers, 40-Count Pack
- BUY A BIC AND WE’LL GIVE A BIC: This back to school season, when you purchase BIC pencils, we will donate one to teachers and classrooms in need
- BACK TO SCHOOL ESSENTIAL: One 40-count pack of BIC Xtra Smooth Bright Edition Mechanical Pencils, sized for a student’s backpack or pencil case, a teacher’s classroom supply drawer, or a household stocking up before the first day of school
- BUILT FOR STUDENTS: The 0.7 mm medium point handles everyday schoolwork including class notes, homework, and standardized tests, always sharp with no sharpener needed
- SMOOTH WRITING AND NO SMUDGES: High-quality No. 2 lead writes smoothly and doesn’t smudge, making these pencils a reliable choice for lefties and righties keeping homework and notes neat
- REFILLABLE AND RETRACTABLE: Replace the lead and eraser as they run out so one 40-count pack carries students from the first day of school through the full semester without running out
The BIC Xtra Smooth Bright Edition Mechanical Pencils are designed for students and teachers. With a 0.7 mm medium point, they provide a fun way to write. This 40-count pack is excellent for classrooms or home use, adding a splash of color to your supplies. When compared to the regular version, this pack stands out with its bright colors. However, the lack of classic colors might not suit everyone’s taste. Overall, it’s a cheerful option for those who enjoy a bit of flair in their writing tools.
Pros
- Bright and colorful barrel options.
- Includes a 40-count pack.
- Good for students and teachers.
Cons
- Limited color options may not appeal to everyone.
- Some users prefer traditional colors.
Best for: students who enjoy colorful supplies.
Not ideal for: users who prefer classic styles.
The BIC Xtra Smooth Bright Edition is a fun choice for vibrant writing.
4. Runner-Up
Paper Mate Clearpoint Mechanical Pencils, 0.7mm HB #2 Pencil Lead, 2 Pencils, Assorted Fashion Barrel Colors, 10 Count – Back to School Essentials,…
- PRECISE WRITING: Mechanical pencils create clear, consistent lines every time
- EASY LEAD CONTROL: Side lead advance lets you reload without changing your grip
- EXPRESSIVE STYLE: A range of fun colorful barrel options add personality to everyday writing
- COMFORTABLE WRITING EXPERIENCE: Soft grip design provides control and long‑lasting comfort
- EFFORTLESS CORRECTIONS: Jumbo twist eraser makes erasing clean and easy
- Includes ten 0.7mm mechanical pencils in assorted barrel colors
Paper Mate Clearpoint Mechanical Pencils are designed for precise writing. The 0.7 mm HB #2 lead creates consistent lines every time. They feature a side lead advance, allowing you to reload without changing your grip, which many users find helpful. Compared to the BIC options, this one focuses more on comfort with its soft grip design. However, the pack only includes two pencils, which might not be enough for users who require more supplies. Despite this limitation, it’s a great choice for those who value comfort and accuracy in their writing.
Pros
- Precise writing with clear lines.
- Side lead advance for easy lead control.
- Soft grip for comfort.
Cons
- Only comes with two pencils in the pack.
- Limited quantity may not suit all users.
Best for: those who want a comfortable grip.
Not ideal for: users needing multiple pencils.
The Paper Mate Clearpoint Mechanical Pencils provide comfort and precision for your writing.
5. Best Splurge
BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils, Medium Point, 0.7mm, 24-Count
- One 24-count pack of BIC Xtra-Smooth No. 2 Mechanical Pencils With Erasers and Pastel Barrels
- Versatile 0.7mm medium point is ideal for a variety of everyday writing activities and a great addition to school supplies
- BIC pencils with high-quality lead that doesn’t smudge and erases cleanly, so your work looks neat and professional
- These lead pencils are always ready and never need sharpening; to advance the lead, simply click the built-in eraser
- Great automatic pencil for school, with No. 2 lead that’s compatible with most standardized tests
The BIC Xtra Strong Mechanical Pencils feature a thicker 0.9 mm lead. This makes them suitable for bold writing and heavy-duty use. With a 24-count pack, they provide a good number of pencils for students or office workers. Compared to the other picks, these are designed for those who prefer a thicker point. However, the thicker lead may not be as smooth as finer leads, which could be a downside for users needing delicate lines. Still, their durability makes them a solid choice for those who write heavily.
Pros
- Thick point for bold writing.
- Strong, durable design.
- Includes a 24-count pack.
Cons
- Not as smooth as finer leads.
- Heavy users may find them less ideal.
Best for: those who prefer bold writing.
Not ideal for: users needing finer writing tools.
The BIC Xtra Strong Mechanical Pencils are excellent for those who want robustness.
6. Best for Small Spaces
BIC Xtra Strong Mechanical Pencils with Erasers, Thick Point (0.9mm), 24-Count, Mechanical Pencils for School or Office Supplies
- One 24-count pack of BIC Xtra Strong No. 2 Mechanical Pencils With Erasers
- Strong 0.9 mm thick point is ideal for school supplies
- BIC pencils with high-quality lead that doesn’t smudge and erases cleanly, so your work looks neat and professional
- These lead pencils are always ready and never need sharpening; to advance the lead, simply click the built-in eraser
- Great automatic pencil for school, with No. 2 lead that’s compatible with most standardized tests
The BIC Xtra Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils offer a compact design ideal for storage. Each pencil has a 0.7 mm medium point and comes in a 24-count pack. This balance makes it suitable for those needing a neat supply without taking up much space. Compared to other options, these are perfect for students with small pencil cases. However, the pastel colors might not attract everyone. Despite this, they provide a good writing experience, especially for those who appreciate a slim design.
Pros
- Compact size for easy storage.
- Quality lead that erases cleanly.
- Includes a 24-count pack.
Cons
- Limited color options may not appeal to everyone.
- Small size might not suit larger hands.
Best for: students or professionals with limited space.
Not ideal for: users who prefer larger pencils.
The BIC Xtra Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils are good for small spaces.
7. Best Heavy-Duty
Paper Mate SharpWriter Mechanical Pencils, 0.7 mm #2 Pencil Lead, Yellow, 36 Count – Back to School Supplies
- Mechanical pencil features shock-absorbing tip to reduce lead breakage
- Twistable tip eliminates the need to stop and sharpen
- #2 lead is perfect for standardized tests
- Pink eraser makes do-overs easy
- Includes 36, #2 mechanical pencils, 0.7mm
The Paper Mate SharpWriter Mechanical Pencils provide a shock-absorbing tip that helps reduce breakage. This makes them ideal for students who need dependable pencils during tests. The 36-count pack ensures you have plenty on hand for class or study sessions. Compared to other picks, these pencils feature a twistable tip, eliminating sharpening interruptions. However, their durability may not match some other options. Users looking for long-term comfort might find them lacking in grip. Still, they are a practical choice for quick writing tasks.
Pros
- Shock-absorbing tip reduces lead breakage.
- Twistable tip for easy lead advancement.
- Includes a pack of 36 pencils.
Cons
- Lower durability compared to other brands.
- May not be as comfortable for long writing sessions.
Best for: students needing reliable pencils for tests.
Not ideal for: those requiring a softer grip.
The Paper Mate SharpWriter Mechanical Pencils offer durability for students.
8. Best Value
Paper Mate Clearpoint Mechanical Pencils, 0.7mm HB #2 Lead, Black Barrels, 4 Count – School Supplies, Note Taking
- PRECISE WRITING: Mechanical pencils create clear, consistent lines every time
- EASY LEAD CONTROL: Side lead advance lets you reload without changing your grip
- EXPRESSIVE STYLE: A range of fun colorful barrel options adds personality to everyday writing
- COMFORTABLE WRITING EXPERIENCE: Soft grip design provides control and long‑lasting comfort
- EFFORTLESS CORRECTIONS: Jumbo twist eraser makes erasing clean and easy
- Includes four 0.7mm mechanical pencils
The BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils offer a budget-friendly option for users. With a 0.7 mm medium point and a 24-count pack, they are perfect for classrooms or office settings. Their vibrant pastel colors add a fun touch, making them popular among students. Compared to other budget options, they provide good quality at a lower cost. However, some users might prefer traditional colors over pastels. Despite their limited quantity, they remain an affordable choice for those needing reliable writing tools.
Pros
- Affordable price for bulk use.
- Includes vibrant barrel colors.
- Great for classrooms and group activities.
Cons
- Pastel colors may not appeal to everyone.
- Only 24 pencils in the pack.
Best for: budget-conscious buyers.
Not ideal for: users needing a larger supply.
The BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils are excellent for those on a budget.
Mechanical Pencils Compared Side by Side
The comparison table below shows key features of each mechanical pencil. You can see the count, tip size, and special features of each pick. This helps you find the best cheap mechanical pencils that suit your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BIC Xtra Smooth Mechanical Pencil | Top Pick | BIC | $12.67 | Check |
| 2 | BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils | Best Design | BIC | $2.74 | Check |
| 3 | BIC Xtra Smooth Bright Edition Mechanical Pencils | Best Compact | BIC Corporation | $9.88 | Check |
| 4 | Paper Mate Clearpoint Mechanical Pencils | Runner-Up | Paper Mate | $18.87 | Check |
| 5 | BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils | Best Splurge | BIC | $6.47 | Check |
| 6 | BIC Xtra Strong Mechanical Pencils with Erasers | Best for Small Spaces | BIC Corporation | $6.47 | Check |
| 7 | Paper Mate SharpWriter Mechanical Pencils | Best Heavy-Duty | Newell Rubbermaid Office | $13.09 | Check |
| 8 | Paper Mate Clearpoint Mechanical Pencils | Best Value | Newell Rubbermaid Office | $8.68 | Check |
| 9 | Paper Mate Mechanical Pencils | — | Paper Mate | $4.24 | Check |
| 10 | BIC Break Resistant Mechanical Pencils with Erasers | — | BIC | $9.62 | 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 data from several reliable online sources. These include customer reviews, product specifications, and manufacturer details. This helped ensure we cover popular and trusted options.
How we built this shortlist
To create this list, we examined over 30 different mechanical pencils. We focused on brands with positive feedback and solid ratings. Each product was evaluated based on its specifications and overall value.
What we ruled out and why
We excluded pencils that had low ratings or poor customer feedback. Any products with limited availability or unclear specifications also did not make the list. This helps ensure you get reliable recommendations.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was conducted. We did not take any lab measurements or assign scores to the products. All recommendations are based on researched data.
How often this page is updated
This page is reviewed and updated regularly. We check for new products and latest information at least every three months. This helps keep the suggestions relevant and accurate.
How to Choose Mechanical Pencils
Tip Size
Choose a tip size based on your writing style. A 0.7 mm tip is common for everyday tasks. For finer lines, consider a 0.5 mm tip. Larger tips, like 0.9 mm, are better for bold writing.
Pencil Count
Think about how many pencils you need. A pack with 40 or more is good for classrooms or shared spaces. If you only need a few, a smaller pack will save you money.
Lead Type
Look for pencils with No. 2 lead if you need to take tests. This type is standard and widely accepted. Some brands also offer different lead types for various tasks.
Erasure Quality
Check if the pencils come with good erasers. A decent eraser helps to correct mistakes without smudging. This is important for neat writing and presentations.
Design and Comfort
Consider the comfort of the pencil. Pencils with a soft grip make writing easier, especially during long use. A lightweight design can also reduce fatigue.
What to look for
Durability
Mechanical pencils need to withstand daily use. Look for ones with strong barrels that won’t crack easily. Durable pencils save you from frequent replacements, making them more cost-effective.
Lead Quality
The quality of the lead affects writing performance. High-quality lead does not break easily and provides smooth lines. Check user reviews to find pencils known for reliable lead.
Ease of Lead Advancement
Mechanical pencils should allow easy lead advancement. Side click mechanisms help reload lead without changing your grip. This feature is especially useful for writers who need to keep their focus.
Variety of Colors
If you enjoy personalizing your writing tools, consider color options. Some brands offer fun designs or pastel colors. A colorful pencil can make writing more enjoyable.
Cost-Effectiveness
Consider how many pencils you get for the price. Buying in bulk often saves money in the long run. Look for packs that balance cost and quantity effectively.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best cheap mechanical pencils?
The best cheap mechanical pencils include the BIC Xtra Smooth and BIC Xtra-Smooth packs. They offer a good balance of quality and quantity.
How many mechanical pencils should I buy? If you frequently write or share, a larger pack like 40-count is helpful. For occasional use, a smaller pack may suffice.
Are mechanical pencils better than wooden pencils?
Mechanical pencils offer convenience since they don’t need sharpening. They also provide consistent line thickness. However, wooden pencils can be easier to find in some situations.
What tip size is best for writing?
A 0.7 mm tip is popular for general writing tasks. For more detailed work, a 0.5 mm tip is better. Choose based on your writing style.
Can I use mechanical pencils for tests?
Yes, but make sure they contain No. 2 lead. This type is usually required for standardized tests. Check the test rules to be sure.
Shopping around? We have 9 more mechanical pencils guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- EPA mold guidance U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- ENERGY STAR product finder ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
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