This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission at no cost to you if you make a purchase through a link.
If you’re searching for the best eye pencil, the good news is that there are plenty of strong options for different needs, from long-wear waterproof formulas to creamy retractable pencils and sensitive-eye friendly choices. The products below cover a wide range of finishes, prices, and wear times, so you can find an eyeliner pencil that fits everyday makeup, bold definition, or more polished looks.
When selecting a product from this list, pay attention to wear claims like waterproof or smudge-resistant performance, whether the pencil is mechanical or sharpenable, and features such as built-in sharpeners, retractable designs, or formulas made for sensitive eyes. Price, rating, and overall value matter too, especially if you want a dependable pencil for regular use without overspending.
Let’s get started!
Our Top Picks at a Glance
| Product | Best For | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|
| L’Oreal Paris Infallible Grip Mechanical Gel Eyeliner Pencil | Longest wear and intense black color | Buy |
| Maybelline Unstoppable Waterproof Mechanical Black Eyeliner Pencil | Easy glide and 24-hour wear | Buy |
| Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner | Built-in sharpener and matte finish | Buy |
Best Eye Pencil
1. Best Overall: L’Oreal Paris Infallible Grip Mechanical Gel Eyeliner Pencil
- Longwear Gel Eyeliner: This eyeliner delivers even strokes with 36HR hold, with a smudge-resistant, waterproof eye makeup formula. This eyeliner pencil glides on smoothly with no mess and no touch-ups
- Easy Glide Application: Apply eye liner as an even stroke or use the included blending tip to fade out lines for a dramatic eye makeup look. Ophthalmologist tested & suitable for sensitive eyes
- Define Your Eye: Your infallible look isn't complete without eye liner. Available in 6 color eyeliner shades. Enhance your classic look with a black eyeliner, get bold with a green, teal, or blue eyeliner, or try neutral grey or brown eyeliner
This L’Oreal Paris Infallible Grip Mechanical Gel Eyeliner Pencil is a strong pick for shoppers who want a waterproof eye makeup pencil with up to 36-hour wear. It is described as smudge-resistant and comes in Intense Black, which makes it a straightforward option for bold everyday definition.
The mechanical design may appeal to anyone who prefers convenience over sharpening. Because it is an eyeliner pencil, it fits well into a routine where quick application and dependable staying power matter most.
At $9.97 with a 4.5 rating, it sits in a competitive sweet spot for performance and affordability. If long wear is your top priority, this is one of the most compelling options in the lineup.
Pros
- Up to 36HR wear
- Waterproof formula
- Smudge-resistant
- Intense Black shade
Cons
- Only one shade listed in the provided data
- Small size at 0.01 oz
2. Best Value: Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner
- LASTING EYELINER: Rich color looks freshly applied all day long; transfer-proof, waterproof, smudge-proof and fade-proof
- UP TO 24HR WEAR: Creates the look you want and stays on strong
- EASY APPLICATION: Pencil eyeliner glides on, creating intensely defined lines that can go from subtle to dramatic. Includes built-in sharpener for the perfect pointed tip and a smudger to blend.
Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner is a practical option for buyers looking for a smudge-proof eye makeup pencil with a built-in sharpener. The matte finish and Black Brown shade give it a versatile look for daily wear.
Its waterproof claim makes it appealing for people who want their eyeliner to stay put through the day. The built-in sharpener also adds convenience, especially if you prefer keeping your pencil ready to use without extra tools.
Priced at $7.97 and rated 4.5, it offers a strong balance of value and performance. For everyday use, this is an easy product to consider.
Pros
- Smudge-proof
- Waterproof
- Built-in sharpener
- Matte finish
Cons
- Only one shade listed in the provided data
- Small size at 0.01 oz
3. Best Premium Pick: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil
- AWARD-WINNING 24/7 WATERPROOF EYELINER: Urban Decay's 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil delivers creamy, high-performance color in over 30 bold, pigment-packed shades. Choose from matte, metallic, shimmer, glitter, and satin finishes for limitless eye looks
- ALL-DAY WEAR BENEFITS: Achieve up to 16 hours of waterproof, smudge-proof eyeliner wear with unbeatable formula staying power and intensly pigmented colors. From bold black and neutral eyeliner shades like taupe to electrifying pops of colorful eyeliner in pink, blue, and green
- ULTRA-CREAMY FORMULA: This creamy, blendable eyeliner pencil glides on effortlessly without tugging or skipping. Perfect for creating crisp lines, winged eyeliner, a defined cateye or blending out like an eyeshadow for a smokey eye, it sets in place for long-lasting, fade-proof wear
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil is positioned as a long-lasting, transfer-proof eye liner pencil with a waterproof finish. It also includes hydrating vitamin E and jojoba oil in the product description, which may appeal to shoppers who like a more comfortable feel.
With a price of $23 and a 4.3 rating, this is one of the more premium choices in the group. It is a good fit for those who want a well-known liner pencil with strong wear-focused claims.
If you are comparing feature sets and don’t mind spending more, this option stands out for its combination of waterproof performance and added conditioning ingredients.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Smudge-proof
- Transfer-proof
- Contains vitamin E and jojoba oil
Cons
- Higher price point
- Rating is slightly lower than some lower-priced options
4. Best Mechanical Pencil: NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Mechanical Eye Pencil
- Retractable Eye Liner: A line and defined eye is just a twist away with this eyeliner pen; Intense pigment covers like a liquid eyeliner while its creamy formula holds for hours; No need to sharpen just twist up and apply for a winged out eyeliner look
- Smudge Proof and Smooth: This smudge proof eyeliner glides on effortlessly and lasts all day through heat and humidity no sad bleeding eyeliner here; Available in natural to bright shades, any eyeliner look is possible with our Retractable Eye Pencil
- All Eyes On Eye Makeup: Complete your look with our full range of eye makeup products ranging from eyeshadow palettes to false eyelashes, eyeliners, concealers, setting sprays, eyebrow makeup, eyeshadow primer and more
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Mechanical Eye Pencil is a creamy retractable eyeliner in the Always Onyx shade. Its mechanical format makes it appealing to users who want simple, no-sharpening convenience.
The product description emphasizes a vivid rich and creamy feel, which may suit people who like smooth application. That makes it a solid option for quick, everyday eyeliner use.
At $7.97 and a 4.5 rating, it offers an attractive middle ground between affordability and reliable performance. If you prefer retractable pencils, this is worth a close look.
Pros
- Retractable mechanical design
- Creamy formula
- Vivid rich color description
- Affordable price
Cons
- Only one shade listed in the provided data
- No waterproof claim listed in the provided data
5. Best Waterproof Budget Pick: e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner
- ULTIMATE EYE PENCIL: The e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner is a waterproof, retractable eyeliner that checks all your pencil liner requirements
- ALL-DAY WEAR: This product is creamy, ultra-pigmented, and has ultimate waterproof staying power
- INTENSE LOOK: We recommend you use this retractable eyeliner pencil on your lash line, waterline, or all over the lid for intense eyes that last all day
e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner is designed for bold, defined lines with a creamy, ultra-pigmented formula. The waterproof and retractable format makes it a convenient option for anyone who wants reliable structure in an eye pencil.
The vegan and cruelty-free positioning is also a notable benefit for shoppers who prioritize those values. Its black shade keeps the product simple and easy to match with many looks.
At $6 and a 4.4 rating, it is one of the most budget-friendly choices in this list. If you want a practical retractable pencil without paying much, this is a strong contender.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Retractable
- Vegan
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Only one shade listed in the provided data
- May be too bold for users who prefer softer lining
6. Best High-Rating Pick: L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Smoldering Eyeliner
- Voluminous Smoldering Eyeliner: The secret to its intensity is in the dark kajal formula, a richly intense black ingredient that delivers stunning definition and glides on effortlessly for a dramatic, captivating eye look
- L'Oreal Eyeliner: Use our best eyeliners to achieve an everyday eye look or a bold cat eye look; Choose from a variety ranging from gel to liquid felt tip eyeliners and pencil eye liners
- Create you perfect eye makeup look with our collection of mascaras, achieve sleek lines with smudge proof eyeliner, add definition to your brows and discover eye shadow palettes with shades made for every eye color
L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Smoldering Eyeliner is a black pencil option with a strong 4.6 rating, which makes it stand out on customer feedback alone. Its product details are concise, but the high rating suggests it is a widely appreciated choice.
With a mid-range price of $9.12, it sits comfortably among the more affordable drugstore-style options. It may appeal to shoppers who want a straightforward black eyeliner pencil without extra bells and whistles.
If you’re sorting by rating and want a dependable pencil from a familiar brand, this is one to consider. It keeps things simple while remaining competitively priced.
Pros
- Highest rating in this list at 4.6
- Affordable
- Simple black shade
Cons
- Limited detail in the provided product description
- No wear claim listed in the provided data
7. Best Built-In Sharpener Pick: L’Oreal Paris Infallible Never Fail Original Mechanical Pencil Eyeliner
- Infallible Never Fail Smudge-Proof Eyeliner: Mechanical pencil eyeliner with built in sharpener is formulated to glide on easily and stay put for up to 16hrs; This rich, creamy eye pencil delivers long-lasting fade-proof color
- Never Fail Eye Liner: Glides on to create classic to bold eye designs to compliment any mood or occasion; Use the built-in sharpener and smudge to optimize pencil tip for versatile eye looks
- Create you perfect eye makeup look with our collection of Voluminous mascaras, achieve sleek lines with smudge proof eyeliner, define your brows and discover eye shadow palettes with shades made for every eye color
L’Oreal Paris Infallible Never Fail Original Mechanical Pencil Eyeliner is a black mechanical pencil with a built-in sharpener. That feature helps make it easy to keep the tip ready for precise application.
The pencil is described as long-lasting and comes in a compact 0.008 oz size. It is a good candidate for people who want convenience and a familiar black liner format.
At $9.97 and a 4.5 rating, it delivers a balanced blend of performance and usability. If a built-in sharpener matters to you, this one fits the bill.
Pros
- Built-in sharpener
- Mechanical pencil format
- Long-lasting claim
- 4.5 rating
Cons
- No waterproof claim listed in the provided data
- Small product size
8. Best Longwear Budget Option: Maybelline Unstoppable Waterproof Mechanical Black Eyeliner Pencil
- Smudge Resistant Pencil Eyeliner: With a self-sharpening tip and a smudge-resistant, waterproof formula, this mechanical eye pencil delivers control and definition from natural lines to your boldest looks
- Define Your Eye: No eye makeup look is complete without Maybelline Eyeliner with bold and deeply-rich shades like our black eyeliner pencil, get playful with a green or blue eyeliner, or take a softer approach with brown eyeliner on your eyelids
- Maybelline Is The Eye Expert: Whatever your signature eye look, natural or dramatic, Maybelline helps create looks that draw eyes; With a broad selection of pencil and liquid eyeliners, highly pigmented eyeshadows, iconic mascara, and eyebrow makeup
Maybelline Unstoppable Waterproof Mechanical Black Eyeliner Pencil is built for easy application and smooth glide. The product description also highlights up to 24-hour wear, which gives it a strong longwear angle for a budget-friendly pencil.
Its waterproof finish and mechanical design make it a practical everyday choice. The Onyx shade keeps the look classic and easy to pair with different makeup styles.
With a price of $7.98 and a 4.6 rating, this product combines strong customer approval with a reasonable price. That makes it a standout option for value-focused shoppers.
Pros
- Up to 24 Hour Wear
- Waterproof
- Easy to apply
- Highest rating among several budget picks
Cons
- Only one shade listed in the provided data
- Small product size
9. Best Sensitive-Eye Pick: Almay All-Day Eyeliner Pencil
- Define your eyes with beautiful color that lasts up to 16 hours
- Oil free, water-resistant, long-lasting, and smudge-proof formula won't run, smear, or rub off
- Built-in sharpener keeps point sharp for precise definition
Almay All-Day Eyeliner Pencil is marketed as smudge proof, waterproof, and hypoallergenic, with EWG Verified noted in the product description. That combination makes it particularly appealing for shoppers who want a gentler eyeliner option.
The built-in sharpener adds convenience, while the black shade keeps the look classic and versatile. It is designed to be a dependable choice for all-day wear.
Priced at $7.72 and rated 4.5, it offers a well-rounded mix of affordability and thoughtful formulation. For users with sensitive eyes, it deserves serious consideration.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Waterproof
- Smudge proof
- Built-in sharpener
Cons
- Only one shade listed in the provided data
- Smaller size at 0.01 oz
10. Best Sharpenable Option: Julep When Pencil Met Gel Sharpenable Multi-Use Longwear Eyeliner Pencil
- WATERPROOF GEL FORMULA: Glides on easily and sets to a smooth, stay-put finish.
- ALL-DAY WEAR: Stays put for up to 10 hours without fading, smudging, or transferring.
- MATTE AND SHIMMER SHADES: Choose from a full range of richly pigmented finishes, from soft neutrals to bold color.
Julep When Pencil Met Gel Sharpenable Multi-Use Longwear Eyeliner Pencil is a rich brown liner with a sharpenable design. It is described as transfer-proof and high performance, making it a useful pick for controlled application.
The product name suggests a gel-like finish, and the multi-use idea may appeal to shoppers who like flexible eye pencil options. The brown shade also offers a softer alternative to black.
At $12.99 and a 4.1 rating, it is not the cheapest choice, but it may still fit users who value the sharpenable format and the rich brown color.
Pros
- Sharpenable
- Transfer-proof
- Multi-use design
- Rich brown shade
Cons
- Lower rating than many other products in this list
- Higher price than several drugstore alternatives
11. Best Luxury Pick: Lancôme Le Stylo
- LONGWEAR WATERPROOF EYELINER WITH SMUDGER FOR ULTIMATE PRECISION.
- A creamy, waterproof eyeliner pencil built for seamless application on both the lash line and waterline.
- WHAT IT DOES - This versatile eye pencil smoothly glides onto the lash line for precise application and intense pigmented color that won’t budge or flake.
Lancôme Le Stylo is a waterproof, long-lasting eyeliner pencil at a premium price point. The product description is brief, but the brand and positioning suggest a more upscale alternative for eyeliner shoppers.
At $29 with a 4.5 rating, it is one of the priciest options in the list. That makes it a fit for buyers who are comfortable investing more in a luxury beauty item.
If you want a well-known prestige option and are prioritizing brand reputation alongside waterproof wear, this product is easy to place on the shortlist.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Long-lasting
- Luxury brand positioning
- 4.5 rating
Cons
- High price
- Limited product-detail information in the provided data
12. Best 36-Hour Wear Pick: Maybelline TattooStudio Long-Lasting Sharpenable Eyeliner Pencil
- Waterproof Eyeliner: Delivering smooth strokes and intense color, this waterproof eyeliner pencil glides on seamlessly for our a smooth finish that lasts for 36 hours with no smudging or fading
- Pigment Rich Definition: This sharpenable eyeliner delivers pigment-rich hues and precise definition; From classic black to bright white and every shade in between, find a perfect shade for your every mood
- It's All in the Eyes: Subtle lines, smokey vibes, custom brow looks, classic tones or a shot of color; Our eyeshadow, eyeliner, brows and mascara collections are designed to transform your look
Maybelline TattooStudio Long-Lasting Sharpenable Eyeliner Pencil is a waterproof option with 36-hour wear and glide-on smooth gel pigments. It is listed in Bold Brown, which gives shoppers a softer alternative to black.
The sharpenable design adds control, while the long wear claim makes it especially appealing for people who want all-day definition. The formula description suggests a smooth application experience.
At $8.98 and a 4.4 rating, it offers strong value for shoppers who want long wear without moving into premium pricing. It deserves attention if staying power is your top requirement.
Pros
- 36 Hour Wear
- Waterproof
- Sharpenable
- Glide on smooth gel pigments
Cons
- Only one shade listed in the provided data
- Not the highest rating in the list
13. Best Sensitive-Skin Friendly Pick: Clinique Quickliner For Eyes Intense Eyeliner Pencil
- INTENSE EYELINER PENCIL: Silky Clinique eyeliner delivers rich color that stays on all day. All the intensity of a liquid liner in an easy-to-use automatic pencil.
- UP TO 24-HOUR WEAR: Quickliner eyeliner is smudge resistant for 24 hours.
- A RANGE OF INTENSE SHADES: Create endless eye looks with a versatile range of richly pigmented and colorful eyeliner shades.
Clinique Quickliner For Eyes Intense Eyeliner Pencil is described as water resistant, smudge resistant, and safe for sensitive eyes. Those traits make it a strong option for people who want a more careful formula choice.
It comes in 10 shades, which gives it more variety than many of the other pencils in this list. That range can be helpful if you want something beyond basic black.
At $29 and a 4.5 rating, this is another premium option. It stands out for shade variety and sensitive-eye friendliness more than for low cost.
Pros
- Safe for sensitive eyes
- Water resistant
- Smudge resistant
- 10 shades available
Cons
- High price
- No waterproof claim listed in the provided data
14. Best Climate Certified Pick: Wonderskin Eyeliner Pencil
- Wonderskin 1440 Waterproof Eyeliner gives 24-hour stay-put wear and rich, high-intensity color. This smudge-proof, long-lasting eyeliner keeps your eye makeup flawless all day. Designed for use as eyeliner or eyeshadow, with an extensive range of colors.
- Our waterproof eyeliner pencil delivers vibrant, high-impact color for 1440 minutes. Transfer-proof, budge-proof, and smudge-proof for all-day eye makeup without touch-ups.
- TruGlide Technology ensures a tug-free, precise application. Sharpen to a fine tip for detailed lines or smudge within 30 seconds for a soft, smokey eyeliner look.
Wonderskin Eyeliner Pencil is a 1440 Longwear Deep Black Eyeliner Pencil that is waterproof, sharpenable, and smudge proof. The product also notes ClimatePartner certification, which may appeal to shoppers who value that designation.
The black shade and longwear positioning make it suitable for buyers who want strong staying power in a classic color. Its sharpenable design helps with targeted application.
At $18 and a 3.7 rating, it is one of the more expensive choices with a lower rating than many others here. It may still be worth looking at if its specific features match your needs.
Pros
- 1440 longwear claim
- Waterproof
- Smudge proof
- Sharpenable
Cons
- Lower rating than many competing products
- Higher price than most drugstore options
15. Best Cream-to-Powder Style Pick: Julep Eyeshadow 101 Cream-to-Powder Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick
- CREAM-TO-POWDER SHIMMER FINISH WITH ALL-DAY HOLD: Starts as a silky, pigment-rich cream and sets to a luminous shimmer powder that stays crease-free and fallout-free —delivering glowing, dimensional shimmer lid color that truly lasts.
- WATERPROOF LONGWEAR BUILT TO LAST ALL DAY: Smudge-resistant and crease-proof, this shimmer eyeshadow stick locks vivid pigment through heat, humidity, and long hours —keeping color fresh and true from morning through night without fading.
- VITAMIN C & E ENRICHED FORMULA: Infused with skin-loving Vitamins C and E, this cruelty free shimmer eyeshadow stick brightens, hydrates, and nourishes delicate eyelid skin while delivering rich, luminous shimmer color in every shade.
Julep Eyeshadow 101 Cream-to-Powder Waterproof Eyeshadow Stick is included here because it is part of the provided lineup and offers a long-lasting, buildable eye product with a built-in smudger. Its Champagne Shimmer finish makes it different from the classic pencil liners in the list.
The crease-proof and waterproof claims make it appealing for shoppers who want a more eye-shadow-stick style option that can still work in a liner-focused routine. The built-in smudger adds convenience for blending.
At $20 and a 4.3 rating, it is priced above the midrange but offers a distinct look and format. It is a good choice if you want something softer or more shimmery than a standard eye pencil.
Pros
- Waterproof
- Long-lasting
- Buildable
- Built-in smudger
Cons
- Not a traditional pencil liner format
- Higher price than many standard eye pencils
Buying Guide
Key Buying Criteria
The right eye pencil depends on how you plan to use it. Some shoppers want strict waterproof performance, while others care more about easy application, softer color, or a formula that feels comfortable around the eyes.
Wear Time
Look at claims like 24-hour wear, 36HR wear, long-lasting, or all-day performance. If you need eyeliner that stays put through a full day, longwear and waterproof formulas are usually the best place to start.
Formula and Finish
Some pencils are described as gel, creamy, matte, or smudge-proof. A gel-style pencil may feel smoother, while a matte finish can look more understated and classic. Choose the texture that best matches your makeup routine.
Mechanical vs. Sharpenable
Mechanical and retractable pencils are convenient because they do not require a separate sharpener. Sharpenable pencils can offer more precise tips, so your preference will depend on how much control and upkeep you want.
Waterproof and Smudge Resistance
If you struggle with eyeliner fading, waterproof and smudge-resistant pencils are especially useful. These features are helpful for long days, humid weather, or makeup looks that need to last.
Sensitivity and Comfort
If you have sensitive eyes, pay attention to products that specifically mention hypoallergenic or safe for sensitive eyes. These formulas may be a better fit if your eyes are prone to irritation.
Price and Value
There are solid options at several price points in this list. Budget picks can still perform well, while premium products may offer brand prestige or extra ingredients. The best value is the product that fits both your needs and your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes an eye pencil the best choice?
The best eye pencil is usually the one that balances wear time, ease of application, and comfort for your eyes. Waterproof and smudge-resistant formulas are often the most dependable for everyday use.
Should I choose a mechanical or sharpenable eye pencil?
Mechanical pencils are more convenient because they are easy to use and do not need sharpening. Sharpenable pencils may give you more control over the tip, which can be useful for precise lining.
Are waterproof eye pencils worth it?
Yes, if you want your eyeliner to stay in place longer or if you often deal with smudging. Waterproof formulas are especially useful for long days and more demanding wear conditions.
Which eye pencil is best for sensitive eyes?
Based on the provided list, Clinique Quickliner For Eyes Intense and Almay All-Day Eyeliner Pencil stand out because they mention sensitive eyes or hypoallergenic qualities in their descriptions.
What is the most affordable eye pencil on this list?
The e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner is the least expensive option in the provided data at $6, making it a strong budget-friendly choice.
Which product has the highest rating?
L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Smoldering Eyeliner has the highest listed rating at 4.6 in the provided data.
Conclusion
There is no single best eye pencil for everyone, but this list includes excellent choices across different needs and budgets. If you want the strongest overall balance of wear and performance, L’Oreal Paris Infallible Grip stands out, while Revlon ColorStay and Maybelline options offer impressive value for everyday use.
For sensitive eyes, premium brand preferences, or convenience features like built-in sharpeners and retractable designs, there are also plenty of specialized picks worth considering. Use the comparison table, product details, and buying guide above to choose the Best Eye Pencil for your routine.