Contents
The choice of the cheapest highlighters can be tough. Our top pick is BIC Brite Liner Highlighters, featuring a convenient chisel tip and a 5-count pack in assorted colors. These are perfect for students and teachers. For a value pick, consider Sharpie Accent Tank-Style Highlighters. You get a 4-count pack but with fewer colors, which might not appeal to everyone.
The main tradeoff is between the number of colors and the size of the pack. BIC offers more colors in a smaller pack, while Sharpie gives you fewer colors but a larger pack. This page will guide you through the best options in this category and help you decide what works for you.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Highlighters Reviewed in Detail
Here are some of the best options for highlighters to consider.
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
BIC Brite Liner Highlighters are our best overall choice due to their practical design and quality. Each highlighter features a chisel tip, which allows for versatile use, making it easy to create both wide and narrow lines. The 5-count pack includes assorted colors that are bright and effective for highlighting text. This pack is not just about color; it’s designed as a back-to-school essential, perfect for students and teachers alike.
When compared to other products, BIC stands out for its balance of quality and affordability. The Sharpie Accent Tank-Style Highlighters, while also good, offer fewer colors in a smaller pack. Users looking for variety will prefer BIC’s pack. However, those who want more highlighters might find larger packs, like the Sharpie Tank Highlighters, more appealing.
A limitation of BIC Brite Liner is the smaller pack size. Those who frequently highlight may run out quickly. If you need more colors, you might want to consider packs with more options from other brands.
Pros
- Chisel tip for versatile highlighting and underlining.
- Bright, assorted colors for better visibility.
- Compact 5-count pack fits easily in bags.
Cons
- Only 5 highlighters in the pack.
- May not be enough for heavy users.
Best for: Students and teachers needing a compact pack. Not ideal for: Users needing larger packs or more colors.
A practical choice for students and teachers alike.
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
Sharpie Pocket Highlighters are a great option for anyone needing portability and quality. This 12-pack features a chisel tip that allows users to switch between wide highlights and narrow underlines easily. The quick-drying ink is designed to be smear-resistant, making it ideal for taking notes in class or at meetings. Its compact size is perfect for on-the-go highlighting, fitting well in bags or pencil cases.
Compared to other picks, the Sharpie Pocket Highlighters offer a larger pack size, making them suitable for regular users. However, BIC Brite Liner Highlighters provide more color options in a smaller pack. Users who prioritize variety may lean towards the BIC pack, while those who highlight often may benefit from the Sharpie’s larger quantity.
Despite its benefits, the limitation of Sharpie Pocket Highlighters is the lack of variety in colors. Users may find the same few colors repetitive over time. Those who enjoy color-coding may want to explore other options with more color choices.
Pros
- Chisel tip for wide and narrow highlighting.
- Smear-resistant ink keeps notes clean.
- Compact size for easy portability.
Cons
- Limited color variety in the pack.
- Might not provide enough distinction for color coding.
Best for: Users who need highlighters on the go. Not ideal for: Those who want a wide color selection.
A reliable choice for portable highlighting needs.
3. Most Versatile
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
Sharpie Tank Highlighters are versatile tools for students and professionals alike. Featuring a chisel tip, these highlighters allow for both wide and narrow lines. The large ink supply ensures that they will last through multiple highlighting sessions. Users appreciate the quick-drying ink, which minimizes smudging and keeps notes looking neat.
This pack offers 12 assorted colors, making it an excellent choice for someone who needs variety. However, the BIC Brite Liner with 5 colors might be more appealing to those who prefer a smaller pack. In comparison to other options, Sharpie Tank Highlighters offer more ink but fewer colors than some competitors. The choice between quantity and variety is a common consideration.
A limitation is that while the inks are vibrant, they may still smudge if you do not let them dry. This can be frustrating for users who highlight over freshly written notes. It’s a good option, but users should keep this in mind for best results.
Pros
- Large ink supply for long-lasting use.
- Chisel tip for flexible highlighting.
- Quick-drying ink to prevent smears.
Cons
- Can smudge if not allowed to dry.
- Fewer color options compared to other packs.
Best for: Users needing long-lasting highlighters. Not ideal for: Those who want a larger variety of colors.
Versatile and reliable for consistent use.
4. Best Lightweight
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
Sharpie Clear View Highlighter Sticks offer a unique feature with their see-through tip. This allows you to see exactly where you are highlighting, which is especially useful for precision. The dual-purpose chisel tip means you can easily switch between wide and narrow lines. Each pack comes with 8 highlighters in vibrant colors that help keep your notes organized.
This highlighter is a solid option for students who want to avoid mistakes while highlighting. Compared to the BIC Brite Liner, the Clear View options provide a clearer view of what you are marking. However, some users might miss having more colors available in a single pack. The Sharpie Tank Highlighters, for example, offer more ink but fewer visibility features.
A downside is the limited color selection in the pack. If you prefer color-coding your notes, you might find yourself wanting additional colors that are not included. This pack is a good choice, but you might want to consider other options for variety.
Pros
- Clear view tip for precise highlighting.
- Dual-purpose chisel tip for versatility.
- Vibrant ink colors for better organization.
Cons
- Limited color variety in the pack.
- May not provide enough distinction for color coding.
Best for: Users needing precision in highlighting. Not ideal for: Those who want a wider color range.
Great for precise highlighting with visible strokes.
5. Best for Beginners
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
Sharpie Accent Tank-Style Highlighters are designed with a wide barrel that holds a large ink supply. This makes them dependable for everyday highlighting tasks. The narrow chisel tip allows you to underline or highlight comfortably. The bright fluorescent ink stands out well on the page, making it easy to spot important information.
In comparison to other highlighters, these are a reliable choice for regular use. However, they fall short in color variety compared to packs like the BIC Brite Liner. If you often highlight in different colors, these highlighters may not meet your needs. Users focused on variety might prefer options with more assorted colors.
One limitation is that the Sharpie Accent may smudge if used too quickly after writing. This can cause frustration for users who highlight over fresh ink. It’s a practical choice, but patience is needed to avoid smearing.
Pros
- Wide barrel for a large ink supply.
- Narrow chisel tip for flexible use.
- Bright ink for clear visibility.
Cons
- Limited color selection in the pack.
- Can smudge if not allowed to dry.
Best for: Users needing reliable, everyday highlighters. Not ideal for: Those wanting multiple colors.
A dependable option for everyday highlighting tasks.
6. Best Premium
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
Sharpie Tank Highlighters in fluorescent yellow are reliable for quick and effective highlighting. The wide barrel provides a large ink supply, ensuring long-lasting performance. Its versatile chisel tip allows users to choose between thick and thin lines when highlighting or underlining. The bright yellow color stands out well on various paper types.
Compared to other options, these highlighters focus on function over variety. They are perfect for users who need consistent marking, but the lack of color choices could be limiting. Packs like the Sharpie Pocket Highlighters offer more colors but with fewer items. This can be a deciding factor for those who like to color-code their notes.
A drawback is that the ink can smudge if overused. Users should allow time for the ink to dry before highlighting over it. This limitation could be frustrating for those who are in a rush.
Pros
- Large ink supply for long-lasting use.
- Versatile chisel tip for different line widths.
- Bright fluorescent yellow ink for visibility.
Cons
- Lacks color options; only available in yellow.
- Can smudge if not allowed to dry.
Best for: Users needing reliable highlighting in one color. Not ideal for: Those who prefer a variety of colors.
A consistent choice for highlighting in fluorescent yellow.
7. Best Value
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.
Zebra Pen MILDLINER No Bleed Highlighters are designed for creativity and versatility. Each pen features a dual tip: a broad chisel for highlighting and a fine bullet tip for underlining. The soft, translucent ink allows for gentle highlighting, making it less harsh on the eyes. This quality is excellent for users who enjoy taking notes without causing fatigue.
Compared to other picks, the MILDLINER stands out for its dual-tip feature. This allows for more precise work, such as hand lettering or grading. However, other options like Sharpie Tank Highlighters offer brighter colors but may be too harsh for some users. The choice here depends on whether you prefer softer colors or vibrant highlights.
A limitation is that the softer ink may not be as bold as traditional highlighters. Users looking for striking visibility might find these highlighters less effective. It’s a unique choice that suits those who prefer a lighter touch.
Pros
- Dual tip for highlighting and underlining.
- Soft, translucent ink for gentle highlighting.
- Great for creative uses like hand lettering.
Cons
- Less bold visibility compared to traditional highlighters.
- Translucent ink may not stand out on all paper types.
Best for: Creative users and students. Not ideal for: Those needing very bright or bold colors.
A gentle choice for creative highlighting tasks.
8. Best for Small Spaces
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
Mr. Pen Aesthetic Highlighters offer a fun and colorful approach to highlighting. This pack includes 8 highlighters in candy colors. They are designed for journaling, highlighting, and underlining. Each highlighter features durable, quick-drying ink that resists smudging. This helps keep your notes looking clean and neat.
Compared to others, Mr. Pen stands out for its aesthetic appeal. However, some users might prefer highlighters with more traditional colors for professional settings. While the vibrant shades are fun, they may not suit every environment. Brands like Sharpie provide more classic options.
One limitation is that the unique colors may not be suitable for all users. If your work requires a more formal appearance, these highlighters may not fit. They are great for casual use but might not appeal to everyone.
Pros
- Includes 8 highlighters in fun candy colors.
- Quick-drying ink prevents smudging.
- Ideal for journaling and creative projects.
Cons
- Bright, candy colors may not suit formal use.
- Limited color options for color-coding tasks.
Best for: Users wanting vibrant, fun colors. Not ideal for: Those needing serious, professional highlighters.
A playful choice for those who love color in their notes.
Highlighters Compared Side by Side
Our comparison table lists each product’s key features. You will find columns for brand, color count, and special features. Check which row matches your needs for the cheapest highlighters.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BIC Brite Liner Highlighters | Best Overall | BIC Corporation | $2.37 | Check |
| 2 | Sharpie Pocket Highlighters | Runner-Up | SANFORD | $7.22 | Check |
| 3 | Sharpie Tank Highlighters | Most Versatile | Newell Brands | $6.99 | Check |
| 4 | Sharpie Clear View Highlighter Sticks | Best Lightweight | Newell Rubbermaid Office | $13.15 | Check |
| 5 | Sharpie Accent Tank-Style Highlighters | Best for Beginners | Sharpie | $2.97 | Check |
| 6 | Sharpie Tank Highlighters | Best Premium | Sharpie | $6.92 | Check |
| 7 | Zebra Pen MILDLINER No Bleed Highlighter | Best Value | Zebra Pen | $6.07 | Check |
| 8 | Mr. Pen- Aesthetic Highlighters No Bleed | Best for Small Spaces | 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 to Choose Highlighters
Tip Type
Most highlighters come with a chisel tip. This type allows you to create both wide and narrow lines. For best use, look for highlighters with versatile tips, like those from Sharpie. This helps you switch easily between highlighting and underlining.
Color Variety
Having a variety of colors can help with organization. Packs with more colors, like the BIC Brite Liner with five colors, are better for different tasks. If you often color-code your notes, choose a pack that offers at least six colors.
Ink Quality
Choose highlighters that feature quick-drying ink. This helps prevent smearing. For instance, Sharpie highlighters are known for their smear-resistant ink. Aim for highlighters labeled as smear-resistant for the cleanest results.
Pack Size
Consider how many highlighters you need. A smaller pack might be cheaper but could run out quickly. For regular use, packs with 8-12 highlighters are often more economical over time.
Portability
If you need highlighters on the go, look for compact sizes. Pick ones that fit easily in your bag. Smaller packs, like the Sharpie Pocket Highlighters, are ideal for school or work.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from major retailers and manufacturer websites. This included product descriptions, user reviews, and specifications. The goal was to find highlighters that meet various needs.
How we built this shortlist
We started with over 30 options available online. Each product was reviewed for key features like ink quality, tip type, and pack size. Only highlighters with positive feedback and useful specs made the final list.
What we ruled out and why
Products with poor reviews or inconsistent quality were removed. Highlighters that lacked basic features like quick-drying ink were also excluded. This ensured we only included reliable options.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing or lab measurements were performed. We relied solely on user feedback and product specs to curate our selections. No scores or ratings were created from personal experiences.
How often this page is updated
This page is checked quarterly for updates. We monitor changes in product availability and user reviews. New entries will be added as they become popular or highly rated.
Frequently asked questions
What are the cheapest highlighters?
The cheapest highlighters vary by brand and pack size. Popular options include BIC Brite Liner Highlighters and Sharpie Accent Tank-Style Highlighters. Always check for sales to find the best deals.
Are smear-resistant inks worth it?
Yes, smear-resistant inks are beneficial. They dry quickly and keep your notes clean. This is especially helpful if you highlight over ink from pens or markers.
How many colors should I get?
A variety of colors can help with organization. Aim for at least five colors if you plan to color-code your notes. This way, you can easily categorize information.
What is a chisel tip?
A chisel tip is a type of highlighter tip that allows for both wide and narrow lines. This flexibility makes it useful for highlighting and underlining text.
Do I need a large pack of highlighters?
If you use highlighters often, a larger pack is a good idea. This ensures you won’t run out quickly. However, if you are a casual user, a smaller pack may suffice.
What to look for
Ink Quality
Ink quality is essential for effective highlighting. Look for quick-drying and smear-resistant ink to keep your notes clean. Brands like Sharpie and BIC offer highlighters with these features. This ensures legibility and a neat appearance in your work.
Tip Versatility
A versatile tip allows for different types of highlighting. Chisel tips are common and enable both wide and narrow lines. This is useful for emphasizing important points or underlining. Choose highlighters with a chisel tip for maximum flexibility.
Pack Size
Pack size affects convenience and cost. Larger packs often provide better value for frequent users. Small packs are suitable for occasional use. Consider how often you highlight to choose the right pack size.
Color Options
Having multiple colors enhances your organization. Highlighters in assorted colors help with categorizing information. Look for packs that offer at least five colors for better visual separation.
Portability
If you plan to carry highlighters with you, portability is key. Choose compact or pocket-size packs that fit easily in a bag. This makes it simple to take them to school, work, or meetings.
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:
- ENERGY STAR product finder ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- EPA indoor air quality U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
About the author
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