Contents
- The Top 10
- Top 10 Highlighters Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Best Overall
- 2. Best for Small Spaces
- 3. Runner-Up
- 4. Best Compact
- 5. Best Premium
- 6. Best Lightweight
- 7. Best for Daily Use
- 8. Best Value
- 9. Best for Beginners
- 10. Best Design
- Highlighters Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Highlighters
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
You want to find the best highlighters drugstore options for your needs. The BIC Brite Liner Highlighters are the top choice because they come in a 5-count pack with assorted fluorescent colors, perfect for school or work. The Sharpie Pocket Highlighters are a great value option, but they have fewer colors in the pack. Many buyers face the decision between a larger pack size or a variety of colors. The rest of this page provides in-depth reviews and comparisons to help you choose.
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The Top 10
Top 10 Highlighters Reviewed in Detail
Here are the best highlighters available at drugstores, each reviewed to help you decide.
1. Best Overall
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 the best highlighters drugstore offers. This 5-count pack features assorted fluorescent colors, making it ideal for students and professionals. The highlighters have a chisel tip, providing versatility in both highlighting and underlining. Compared to other picks, the BIC highlighters are compact and fit easily in a pencil case or backpack. However, they may lack the variety of colors found in larger packs offered by brands like Sharpie. Overall, this is the best option for those needing reliable and colorful highlighting tools.
Pros
- Assorted fluorescent colors for better organization
- Chisel tip for versatile use
- Compact size for easy portability
- Affordable pack ideal for students
Cons
- Only 5 colors in the pack
- May not last as long as larger ink supply options
Best for: Students and everyday users. Not ideal for: Those needing a wide variety of colors.
A reliable choice for anyone looking for colorful and versatile highlighters.
2. Best for Small Spaces
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 great option for those needing smaller, portable highlighters. This 12-pack features an assorted color range, perfect for color-coding notes. The chisel tip allows for both wide highlighting and fine underlining. Compared to the BIC highlighters, these are more versatile due to their larger pack size and variety. However, their compact design may not provide the same comfort as larger highlighters. Overall, these are excellent for quick note-taking and organization on the go.
Pros
- Smear-resistant quick-drying ink
- Versatile chisel tip for different tasks
- Larger pack size for extensive use
- Compact design for portability
Cons
- Smaller size might be less comfortable for long use
- May not have as many colors as larger packs
Best for: On-the-go students and professionals. Not ideal for: Those who prefer larger, more comfortable highlighters.
A practical choice for those needing highlighters in various colors while on the move.
3. Runner-Up
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 a strong runner-up choice for highlighting needs. This 12-pack includes various bright colors, perfect for any workspace. Its chisel tip provides flexibility for highlighting and underlining lines. Compared to other selections, the Sharpie Tank offers a large ink supply, ensuring longer-lasting use. However, it may be bulkier and less portable than smaller options. This choice is excellent for study sessions or office use where visibility is important.
Pros
- Large ink supply for longevity
- Bold and bright colors for easy visibility
- Versatile chisel tip for various uses
- Quick-drying ink to prevent smudging
Cons
- Bulkier design may not fit in small spaces
- Less portable compared to pocket-sized options
Best for: Office use or frequent studiers. Not ideal for: Those needing compact highlighters.
An excellent choice for anyone needing reliable and vivid highlighters.
4. Best Compact
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 a unique offering due to their clear tip design. This 8-pack provides easy visibility while highlighting, reducing mistakes. The dual-purpose chisel tip allows for switching between wide and narrow lines, making it a versatile tool. Compared to other highlighters, the clear view tip helps users see exactly where they are highlighting. However, some may find the size less practical for travel. Overall, these are great for personal use at your desk or in class.
Pros
- Clear view tip for accurate highlighting
- Dual-purpose chisel tip for versatility
- Assorted vibrant colors for organization
- Smear-resistant ink for clean notes
Cons
- Not as portable as smaller options
- Limited pack size compared to bulk packs
Best for: Office work and students needing precision. Not ideal for: Frequent travelers or those needing larger packs.
A solid choice for precise highlighting with visibility in mind.
5. Best Premium
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 are designed with a large ink supply. This 4-count pack contains assorted colors, making it easy to organize notes. Its wide barrel is comfortable to hold during extended use. Compared to others, its size lends itself to long-lasting highlighting. However, the smaller pack may not meet the needs of users who prefer more variety. These highlighters are a dependable choice for those looking to make their notes stand out.
Pros
- Wide barrel for comfortable grip
- Bright fluorescent ink for visibility
- Versatile chisel tip for underlining and highlighting
- Quick-drying ink to avoid smearing
Cons
- Limited to 4 colors in the pack
- May not last as long as larger packs
Best for: Students needing comfort in their highlighters. Not ideal for: Those wanting a larger variety of colors.
A reliable choice for comfort and visibility in your highlighting tasks.
6. Best Lightweight
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 Highlighters in fluorescent yellow are designed for clear highlighting. This 12-count pack offers a bright color that stands out on paper. The versatile chisel tip allows for both broad and narrow lines. Compared to other models, this pack’s focus on yellow provides a simple, effective highlighting tool. However, users looking for more color variety might be disappointed. This option is suitable for those who primarily need one standout color.
Pros
- Bright fluorescent yellow for clear visibility
- Large ink supply for prolonged use
- Versatile chisel tip for different styles
- Quick-drying ink that resists smearing
Cons
- Only one color option available
- Not suitable for those wanting multiple colors
Best for: Users who prefer a classic highlighting color. Not ideal for: Those needing a variety of colors.
A straightforward choice for effective highlighting in a single color.
7. Best for Daily Use
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 No Bleed Highlighter is a standout for those needing less intense ink. This 5-pack features dual tips, allowing for both broad and fine highlighting. The no-bleed ink ensures your work stays clean, even on thin paper. Compared to other highlighters, this one is great for creative tasks and detailed work. However, users wanting brighter colors might find them lacking. It’s perfect for students or anyone focused on neatness and precision.
Pros
- Dual-tip design for versatile use
- No-bleed ink for clean highlighting
- Soft colors ideal for delicate work
- Compact design for easy storage
Cons
- Not as vibrant as traditional highlighters
- Limited to softer color options
Best for: Creative tasks and detailed notes. Not ideal for: Those wanting bold highlighting colors.
A great choice for precision and neatness in highlighting.
8. Best Value
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 with fun colors. This 8-pack includes candy colors that add a playful touch to your notes. The chisel tip allows versatile highlighting and underlining. Compared to more serious options, these are perfect for journaling and creative projects. However, their bright colors may not be suitable for professional environments. This pick is ideal for students or anyone looking to add a fun element to their work.
Pros
- Vibrant candy colors for creativity
- Chisel tip for versatile highlighting
- Quick-drying ink to prevent smudges
- Ideal for journaling and crafts
Cons
- Less suitable for professional use
- May not be as long-lasting as other brands
Best for: Creative students and personal projects. Not ideal for: Professional or formal environments.
A fun option for anyone looking to add color to their notes.
9. Best for Beginners
BIC Brite Liner Grip Pastel Highlighter Set, Chisel Tip, 6-Count Pack
- One 6-count pack of BIC Brite Liner Grip Pastel Highlighters
- Thin highlighters with a versatile chisel tip that creates both fine and broad lines
- Each highlighter pen can write for up to 8 hours without a cap on and not dry out
- Fits snugly in your hand with soft grips for added comfort and control
- Pastel highlighter set featuring 6 markers in each of the following trendy colors: yellow, pink, purple, blue, green and orange
- Pastel highlighter set featuring two markers in each of the following six subtle, soft colors: Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Purple and Pink
The BIC Brite Liner Grip Pastel Highlighter Set offers a softer color option. This 6-pack is designed with a versatile chisel tip for highlighting or underlining. Each highlighter can write for up to 8 hours without a cap, which is useful for long study sessions. Compared to standard highlighters, these pastels are less aggressive on the eyes. However, those wanting more vibrant options may find these lacking. This pick is perfect for students or professionals who prefer subtle colors.
Pros
- Soft pastel colors that are easy on the eyes
- Chisel tip for both fine and broad lines
- Durable ink that lasts up to 8 hours without drying
- Comfortable grip for extended use
Cons
- Limited to pastel colors, lacking brighter options
- Fewer colors than larger packs
Best for: Students and professionals seeking softer colors. Not ideal for: Users wanting bright, bold shades.
A comfortable choice for gentle highlighting in soft colors.
10. Best Design
Sharpie Tank Highlighters, Chisel Tip, 12 Assorted Fashion Colors, Value Pack, 36 Count – For Studying, Note-Taking, School, College, Office, Student &…
- DEPENDABLE: Wide barrel and large ink supply that delivers dependable highlighting
- BRILLIANT COLORS: Highly visible, bright ink stands out on the page
- LONG-LASTING: Versatile chisel tip great for highlighting, underlining, and writing notes
- QUICK-DRYING INK: Resists smearing (let ink dry before highlighting)
- VALUE PACK: Includes 36 highlighters in assorted colors.
The Sharpie Tank Highlighters in assorted fashion colors are perfect for those wanting variety. This 36-count value pack offers a mix of colors for all your needs. The wide barrel and large ink supply make these great for frequent use. Compared to smaller packs, this one allows extensive highlighting. However, it may be too bulky for carrying in small bags. This option is best for classrooms or shared spaces where color variety is beneficial.
Pros
- Large value pack with 36 highlighters
- Assorted colors for versatile use
- Comfortable grip designed for extended use
- Quick-drying ink to prevent smearing
Cons
- Too large for compact carrying
- May not suit those wanting a few colors
Best for: Classrooms or shared environments needing variety. Not ideal for: Users who prefer a small, portable pack.
An excellent choice for those seeking a broad selection of highlighters.
Highlighters Compared Side by Side
The comparison table below outlines key features of each highlighter. The columns indicate brand, pack size, and special features. Use this table to find the best highlighters drugstore for your needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BIC Brite Liner Highlighters | Best Overall | BIC Corporation | $2.37 | Check |
| 2 | Sharpie Pocket Highlighters | Best for Small Spaces | SANFORD | $7.22 | Check |
| 3 | Sharpie Tank Highlighters | Runner-Up | Newell Brands | $6.99 | Check |
| 4 | Sharpie Clear View Highlighter Sticks | Best Compact | Newell Rubbermaid Office | $13.15 | Check |
| 5 | Sharpie Accent Tank-Style Highlighters | Best Premium | Sharpie | $2.97 | Check |
| 6 | Sharpie Tank Highlighters | Best Lightweight | Sharpie | $6.92 | Check |
| 7 | Zebra Pen MILDLINER No Bleed Highlighter | Best for Daily Use | Zebra Pen | $6.07 | Check |
| 8 | Mr. Pen- Aesthetic Highlighters No Bleed | Best Value | Mr. Pen | $5.99 | Check |
| 9 | BIC Brite Liner Grip Pastel Highlighter Set | Best for Beginners | BIC CORP. | $4.97 | Check |
| 10 | Sharpie Tank Highlighters | Best Design | Sharpie | $16.48 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Highlighters
Consider the Tip Type
Choosing the right tip type is important for your highlighting needs. Look for chisel tips, as they can create both wide and narrow lines. Many highlighters, like the Sharpie Tank Highlighters, have versatile chisel tips. This allows you to highlight large passages and underline fine text easily.
Check the Ink Quality
Select highlighters with quick-drying ink to avoid smudging. This is especially useful for taking notes with various pen types. Highlighters like Sharpie Clear View Highlighter Sticks offer smear-resistant ink, keeping your documents clean and readable.
Pay Attention to Pack Size
Think about how many highlighters you need. Smaller packs, like the BIC Brite Liner Highlighters with 5 colors, are great for personal use or students. If you need more variety, larger packs, such as the Sharpie Pocket Highlighters with 12 colors, offer many options for different tasks.
Look for Comfort Features
Comfortable highlighters help when you use them for long periods. Some brands, like BIC Brite Liner Grip, feature soft grips that make them easier to hold. This can be especially important during study sessions or when organizing notes.
Consider Color Variety
A variety of colors allows for better organization and note-taking. Look for highlighters that come in assorted colors, such as the Sharpie Accent Tank-Style Highlighters. These bright colors can help you color-code notes for better understanding.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
Our information comes from reputable office supply websites, customer reviews, and product specifications. We looked at about 50 different highlighter products during our research.
How we built this shortlist
To build this shortlist, we focused on highlighters available at drugstores. We filtered for customer ratings and features such as ink quality, tip type, and package size.
What we ruled out and why
We ruled out highlighters with poor customer reviews and low ratings, focusing instead on products that consistently received positive feedback. Those with limited availability or outdated features were also excluded.
What we did not do
We did not conduct hands-on testing or lab measurements for these highlighters. All assessments are based on available data, customer experiences, and manufacturer details.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly to reflect new products and changes in customer reviews. We aim to provide the most accurate and current information available.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best highlighters for students?
The best highlighters for students are those that are comfortable to hold and have quick-drying ink. Products like the BIC Brite Liner Highlighters are great for their variety in color and comfort.
Are smear-resistant highlighters worth it?
Yes, smear-resistant highlighters help keep your notes clean. This is important when using other pens that may smudge. Highlighters like the Sharpie Clear View Sticks are a good choice.
How many highlighters do I need?
It depends on your use. For daily tasks, a pack of 12 like the Sharpie Pocket Highlighters offers variety. For light use, a smaller pack of 5 may be sufficient.
What is the difference between chisel and bullet tips?
Chisel tips allow for both wide and narrow lines, making them versatile. Bullet tips are usually finer and better for underlining or detailed work.
Can I use highlighters on different types of paper?
Yes, most highlighters work on various paper types. However, it is best to test on a small area first, especially with colored inks.
What to look for
Ink Quality
The quality of the ink is essential in a highlighter. Quick-drying ink prevents smudging and keeps notes clean. Look for highlighters labeled as smear-resistant. This feature will help you maintain readable notes, especially when using other writing instruments.
Comfort and Grip
Comfort is important when using highlighters for extended periods. Highlighters with soft grips, like the BIC Brite Liner Grip, can make highlighting more comfortable. This is important for students or professionals who frequently take notes.
Color Variety
Having a variety of colors can enhance your note-taking experience. Different colors help with organization and emphasizing key points. Choose highlighters that come in assorted colors, ensuring you can color-code your notes effectively.
Tip Versatility
Versatile tips allow you to switch between highlighting and underlining easily. Chisel tips are a popular choice for this reason, as they can create both wide and narrow lines. Products like the Sharpie Tank Highlighters offer this flexibility.
Pack Size
The size of the pack can influence your choice. Smaller packs are suitable for personal use, while larger packs, like those from Sharpie, are ideal for classrooms or shared spaces. Evaluate how often you use highlighters to determine the best pack size.
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