10 Best Mechanical Pencils 2026 in the United States

The BIC Xtra-Smooth Pastel Mechanical Pencils come in a convenient 24-count pack, making them a practical choice for students or office workers who need reliable writing tools in bulk. Their 0.7mm medium lead size strikes a good balance for general writing tasks—fine enough for neat notes but not too fragile. The HB (No. 2) lead hardness is standard and widely accepted for most writing and standardized tests, producing clear, smudge-resistant lines that erase cleanly, which helps keep work tidy.

These pencils feature a ribbed grip, which provides basic comfort and control during writing, although it may not be as cushioned or ergonomic as some higher-end mechanical pencils. The lead advances with a simple click of the eraser, a common and user-friendly mechanism that makes it easy to keep writing without interruptions. The retractable tip design helps protect the lead and prevents accidental marks when not in use.

Build quality is solid for everyday use, especially considering the affordable price and bulk packaging. The pastel barrels add a touch of color variety and visual appeal, though the pencil body is mostly plastic, so it may not feel as durable or premium compared to metal-bodied models. These pencils are not designed for specialized or professional drawing tasks but excel as dependable, no-fuss writing instruments for school or office environments. If you need a cost-effective, easy-to-use mechanical pencil with decent lead quality and comfortable grip for regular writing, these BIC pencils fit the bill well. They might not offer advanced grip comfort or heavy-duty durability but perform reliably in a wide range of everyday writing needs.

The BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils offer a solid choice for those in need of reliable and convenient writing tools for school or office use. With a 0.7mm medium point, these pencils are versatile and suitable for a variety of everyday writing tasks. The HB lead hardness ensures a balanced performance, providing a smooth writing experience without excessive smudging, and it erases cleanly. This makes your work look neat and professional, which is essential for academic and professional settings.

The lead advancement mechanism is simple and efficient; a click of the built-in eraser advances the lead, eliminating the need for sharpening and ensuring the pencils are always ready to use. This feature is particularly handy for standardized tests and other timed activities where interruptions can be detrimental. On the downside, the ribbed grip may not offer as much comfort for extended writing sessions compared to cushioned grips. Additionally, the plastic build, while lightweight, might not be as durable as metal-bodied mechanical pencils.

This 40-count pack provides excellent value, especially for bulk purchases, making it ideal for students, teachers, and office workers. In summary, the BIC Xtra-Smooth Mechanical Pencils score high on convenience and functionality, though users seeking long-term durability and enhanced grip comfort might need to explore higher-end options.

The Paper Mate Clearpoint Mechanical Pencils offer a variety of useful features that make them ideal for school and drawing purposes. These pencils use a 0.7mm lead size, which is a versatile choice for writing, drawing, and sketching. The HB #2 lead provides a balanced hardness, suitable for various writing and drawing tasks, creating clear and precise lines every time.

One of the standout features is the side lead advancement mechanism, which allows for easy lead loading without needing to release your grip, enhancing convenience and ease of use. The soft grip design significantly improves comfort, making it easier to write or draw for extended periods without hand fatigue. Additionally, the jumbo twist eraser is a practical feature that ensures clean and easy erasing, which is especially useful for students and artists who need to make frequent corrections.

The assorted barrel colors add a fun and personalized touch, which can be appealing to teens and younger users. However, the product has a couple of minor drawbacks. The pencils are described as having a 'broad' point type, which might not be preferred by users who need very fine and detailed lines. Also, while the soft grip is comfortable, it might wear out over time with heavy use.