Ranked and Reviewed: The 15 Best Eyeliners for Pulling Off Smoky Realness, Bold Designs, and Clean Lines
It doesn't get better than this.
Whether your goal is to achieve a sharp and sleek cat eye or an adventurous art deco design, using eyeliner pencils is one of the easiest ways to upgrade your makeup game. As a beauty editor, I've seen my share of eye makeup looks that can only be achieved with the help of an eyeliner pencil and the steady hand of a person who knows how to get the most out of their eye makeup. Though I bounce between gel, cream, liquid, and glitter formulas, it's the eyeliner pencil I reach for the most for one simple reason: It's one of the most versatile tools in a professional makeup artist's kit and a beginner's bag.
Here's the thing—an eyeliner pencil may not be the first tool you think of when planning out your step-by-step makeup routine (or trying a new product lineup and hoping for the best) but makes the biggest difference in your finished look. Below, discover the 15 best expert and editor-approved cream, gel, and kohl eyeliner pencils for all your eye makeup needs as well as tips and tricks on how to get the most out of them.
What Are Eyeliner Pencils?
Eyeliner pencils can be used to shape and frame eyes by adding dimension and color where it is placed. There are many different types of eyeliner pencils, so it's best to consider wear time, pigmentation, versatility, and removability while considering which products are the best choice for you. I reached out to Sarah Tanno, a celebrity makeup artist who serves as Haus Labs, for the scoop on everything you need to know about eyeliner pencils. "I like eyeliners that have a liquid-like texture that don't dry too fast, but when it does dry, [it] won't smudge or move out of place when set," says Tanno. "The formula is very important when it comes to finding a long-wearing, non-irritating eyeliner." Her go-to pick is Haus Labs' Optic Intensity Eco Eyeliner ($22).
Its formula is clean, vegan, and cruelty-free in addition to being waterproof and safe to use on sensitive eyes. "I love that there's a brush on one end so you can really create the perfect line with precision," she says of the product. It's currently available in matte, shimmer, and limited-edition finishes in 18 versatile shades. Of these, Tanno's favorites are Black Onyx Matte for its bold pigment with a natural finish, White Onyx Matte to brighten the eyes when applied to the waterline, and Deep Cocoa Matte because, "not only is it a gorgeous, rich brown for the eyes, [but] it also makes a great lip liner!"
How Should I Use Eyeliner Pencils?
When it comes to using your new eyeliner pencil, Tanno recommends paying special attention to readying the product (i.e., sharpening it if possible) before softly and swiftly dragging it across the base of the lash line. "If you are going to blend out, I suggest doing one eye at a time since the dry-down time is about 15 seconds," Tanno recommends. Like any process, practice makes perfect. Your first attempt to apply eyeliner may not have the best results, but it definitely gives you hints as to how much pressure to apply, the best way to hold the pencil, and how best to work with its formula.
Feeling ready to give it a try? You'll need to find your ideal eyeliner pencil first. Scroll on to check out the nine other products I've been switching in and out of my makeup routine depending on what I'm in the market for when I embark on one of my many shopping trips. Everything's here—from the best product to use on the more sensitive areas of the eyes to one that will stand the test of time.
The Best Eyeliner Pencils, Listed
- Best Shade Offerings: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil
- Best Wear Time: Stila Stay All Day Smudge Set Waterproof Gel Eyeliner
- Best for Smoky Eyes: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satan Kajal Liner
- Best Wearability: Chantecaille Luster Glide Silk Infused Eyeliner
- Best Pigment: Valentino Colograph Waterproof Gel Eyeliner
Formula: Cream | Shades: 5 | Finish: Matte
Pros: Offers a long-lasting, highly pigmented formula with retractable design
Cons: Has a tendency to smudge and shift slightly with wear
Not all affordable eyeliner options deliver pigment, longevity, and wearability at affordable price points, but e.l.f. Cosmetic's reliable No Budge Retractable Eyeliner checks all these boxes (and more) with an ultra-creamy formula. Using a convenient, retractable design, its formula is gentle enough to be used on your waterline, lashline, and all over the lids for a long-lasting look that packs a punch.
Customer Review: "This really does what it says, it doesn’t budge! It glides on smoothly and gives good color payoff without tugging. I like how easy it is to use and that it twists up (no sharpener needed). It stays put for most of the day, though it can fade a little on my waterline after a few hours. For the price, it’s a solid everyday eyeliner that gets the job done!"
Formula: Cream | Shades: 33 | Finish: Matte, metallic
Pros: Glides onto skin effortlessly with waterproof color and 36 hours of wear
Cons: Not ideal for ultra-thin, precise designs
While I'm usually partial to wearing 'no makeup' makeup with a minimal wing, when I want to try my hand at a graphic design I reach for this liner stick/pencil hybrid. Currently available in 33 ultra-pigmented colors that complement all skin tones, this makeup must-have delivers 36 hours of water, smudge, and fade-proof wear (no fixing or clean-up required). I'm in love with how the creamy formula feels on my skin, and how smoothly it applies.
Customer Review: "Bold, waterproof eyeliners that last all day without smudging. They come in vibrant colors and apply smoothly, making it easy to create standout eye looks. They’re great if you need long-lasting wear, but can be tricky to remove at the end of the day because they’re so durable."
Formula: Gel | Shades: 18 | Finish: Matte, shimmer, "exclusive"
Pros: Uses a plastic-free design that can be sharpened for precision
Cons: None
Haus Labs' Optic Intensity Eco Eyeliner is Tanno's favorite eyeliner pencil and a new favorite of mine. It is a clean, gel-like formula that deposits intense color while supporting skin health with patented technology combining the benefits of vitamin E and argan oil. Its formula also uses kajal for intense pigment and the right amount of playtime for you to blend and smudge to perfection before drying.
Customer Review: "Beautiful eyeliner. The formula is smooth, easy to apply, and very pigmented. It glides on effortlessly without tugging and lasts well throughout the day. I really love how clean and precise it looks once applied. Definitely a staple in my makeup routine."
Formula: Cream | Shades: 8 | Finish: Matte, metallic
Pros: Retractable design deposits rich, vibrant color with formula that blends easily
Cons: The tip is delicate and doesn't respond well to too much pressure being applied
This clean, vegan, mineral-based waterproof eyeliner glides on easily without skipping or tugging. Its formula, available in eight shades (and two finishes), is creamy upon application for blending before setting for 12 hours of transfer, smudge, and waterproof wear. This one stands out to me because it delivers a natural-yet-buildable look. Plus, its formula contains avocado oil and aloe vera to soothe and nourish the skin.
Customer Review: "I have never tried bareMineral eye liners, but I love their other products, so I gave this a shot and I am obsessed! This eyeliner goes on so smoothly and doesn't tug the lid (which is important as I'm close to 40) I get a nice smooth line every single time. I got this in brown and love the way it compliments my blue eyes. I would highly recommend it!"
Associate Beauty Editor Maya Thomas wearing bareMinerals Mineralist Lasting Eyeliner in Onyx
Formula: Cream | Shades: 35 | Finish: Matte, satin, metallic shimmer, glitter
Available in a jaw-dropping collection of 35 shades and four finishes from a bold, matte black to bright metallic shimmer, Urban Decay's 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil has a creamy and blendable formula that's perfect for beginners. It glides onto the skin with ease (no skipping or tugging), and dries for up to 16 hours of wear. While it can be worn alone to I recommend using this liner as a base layer and topping it with eyeshadow for added depth.
Pros: Ideal for lining, smudging, and blending into a shadow for versatile eye looks
Cons: Dry skin might experience slight tugging during application with gel formula
Customer Review: "I am loving this eyeliner! I have the bronze one and it's such a pretty shade. The formula glides on smoothly and is well-pigmented. It sets pretty fast so if you want to smudge, make sure to do it quickly. What I really love about this eyeliner is that it's very long-lasting and stays put all day without fading away."
Formula: Gel | Shades: 15 | Finish: Matte
Pros: Ideal for lining, smudging, and blending into a shadow for versatile eye looks
Cons: Dry skin might experience slight tugging during application with gel formula
Stila's best-selling weatherproof gel eyeliner provides 12-hours of highly-pigmented wear in a single swipe. Its gel-based formula and retractable design makes this eyeliner pencil ideal for adding depth and dimension to your eye looks (including the waterline). I've used this one as a liner and eyeshadow since it blends and smudges like a dream.
Customer Review: "I am loving this eyeliner! I have the bronze one and it's such a pretty shade. The formula glides on smoothly and is well-pigmented. It sets pretty fast so if you want to smudge, make sure to do it quickly. What I really love about this eyeliner is that it's very long-lasting and stays put all day without fading away."
Associate Beauty Editor Alyssa Brascia wearing Stila Stay All Day Smudge Set Waterproof Gel Liner.
Formula: Kohl | Shades: 3 | Finish: Matte
Pros: Dual-sided classic wood pencil design features a sponge tip to blend and smudge
Cons: Limited shade availability
On the hunt for a classic kohl pencil that can deliver smoky eyes in seconds? RMS Beauty's is a Straight Line Kohl Eye Pencil with a dual-side wooden design featuring a sponge tip on one end to blend and smudge and rich, creamy color. Nourishing and smooth, its formula is enriched with mango and meadowfoam seed oils. This kohl pencil also comes with a helpful sharpener.
Customer Review: "Love this eyeliner and its clean ingredients. It stays on all day and doesn’t smudge like other brands. I also love the smudge tip that comes with the pencil so I can blend and effortlessly create a smoky look."
Formula: Cream | Shades: 5 | Finish: Matte
Pros: Shapes and defines the eyes with water and transfer-resistant wear
Cons: Challenging to sharpen the tip
Use this pencil to shape and define the eyes with an intensely pigmented yet creamy formula that doesn't smudge, transfer, or irritate the eyes. It can also be used to create thick and thin lines depending on the amount of pressure applied and the placement of the pencil's precise tip. Clinique's Cream Shaper For Eyes is also incredibly easy to sharpen. Pro Tip: make sure you always cap tightly to keep its formula blendable.
Customer Review: "Clinique Cream Shaper Pencil does a great job of staying on all day and looks good at the end of a 12 hour shift as it does when it is first applied. I love that you can sharpen it and have a finer line or leave it dull and have a wider line. Would purchase again."
Formula: Cream | Shades: 14 | Finish: Matte
Pros: Multi-use, rightly-pigmented pencil that can be used on the eyes, lips, and brows
Cons: Requires reapplication for extended, all-day wear
Who What Wear Beauty Editor Kaitlyn McLintock and #BeautyTok convinced me to pick up Make Up For Ever's viral Artist Color Pencil. Designed for use on the eyes, lips, and brows, this cult-favorite multiuse pencil uses a richly-pigmented, creamy formula in 14 universally flattering shades. It's long-lasting and comfortable to wear, which makes the pencil one of my favorites for tucking into a bag for those on-the-go makeup moments.
Customer Review: "Love this eye pencil in Boundless Bisque! I’ve used it in my water line to create a bright-eyed look and even used it as a spot concealer and it worked great. Goes on soft and smooth, so it doesn’t pull or irritate my skin when I apply [it]. 10/10—definitely recommend!"
Formula: Cream | Shades: 9 | Finish: Matte and metallic
Pros: Buttery formula and built-in smudging tool allows for seamless blending
Cons: None
When it comes to liners that can withstand my watery eyes, Lancôme's Le Stylo Waterproof Long Lasting Eyeliner is second-to-none. Long-lasting and buildable, the versatile eye pencil glides onto the lashline without skipping or tugging, depositing intense color that won't budge or flake for all-day wear. Offered in 9 stunning shades and two finishes (matte and metallic), this pencil is indisputably one of the best on the market.
Customer Review: "I’m really loving this eyeliner! It applies very smoothly and is initially very creamy, giving you just enough time to smudge it out for the perfect lived-in smoky look! Once it sets, it doesn’t budge for the rest of the day."
Formula: Gel | Shades: 5 | Finish: Matte, shimmer
Pros: Offers 12 hours of high-impact wear without smudging, bleeding, or fading
Cons: Limited shade availability
If you're as tired as touching-up your makeup as I am, take this as your sign to finally pick up the Hourglass Voyeur Waterproof Gel Eyeliner. It uses a silky, versatile formula that glides on without skipping or tugging, leaving behind high-impact, pigmented color lasting for up to 12 hours. Of the five shades and finishes offered, I use Cave (a matte brown), and Chesnut (a matte reddish-brown) the most.
Customer Review: "This is one of my favourite waterproof eyeliners. It doesn't require a sharpener (big plus) and it is retractable which is handy. It goes on really easily and doesn't make my eyes water and stays on like a dream. One I will keep repurchasing over and over again. So happy I tried it!"
Beauty Editor Kaitlyn McLintock wearing Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner.
Formula: Cream | Shades: 22 | Finish: Matte, jewel, shimmer
Pros: Comfortable wear with a formula featuring chamomile extract and vitamin E
Cons: Experienced slightly smudging with all-day wear that required clean-up
Senior Beauty Editor Jamie Schneider wrote a love letter to this kajal eyeliner, but Associate Beauty Editor Alyssa Brascia also sings its praises. The smudge-free pencil is crafted with a creamy formula packed with pigment and a skin-loving medley of ingredients (vitamins B and A, and antioxidants), to comfort the skin with each swipe. This is the kajal pencil you'll want in your makeup bag to create perfectly undone eyeliner looks.
Customer Review: "This eyeliner is simply the best on the market! It's so creamy and blendable. I've tried three colors and love them all. Cinnamon, smoky quartz, and sequin green, all really compliment my brown eyes. Also, the generous size of the pencil lasts a long time."
Senior Beauty Editor Jamie Schneider wearing Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner.
Formula: Cream | Shades: 5 | Finish: Matte
Pros: Designed with a built-in smudge tip to soften edges and diffuse pigment
Cons: Pencil is challenging to sharpen for a more defined tip
Trish McEvoy's high-performance gel pencil delivers bold color with precision. Its unique, silky texture has saturated color in every stroke and allows for the control of a gel and the precision of a cream. There's nothing I love more than an eyeliner pencil with the ability to deliver clean definition and bold smoky eyes with a built-in smudge tip. I always make sure to sharpen it with the brand's Dual Pencil Sharpener ($10).
Customer Review: "I absolutely love how easily this liner glides on and stays put all day long! As my skin ages, I do not want any tugging or pulling on my delicate eye skin, and this liner is smooth and gentle."
Formula: Cream | Shades: 8 | Finish: Shine
Pros: Delivers excellent color payoff, shine, and all-day wear with a soft, sharpen-able tip
Cons: Limited shade availability
Inspired by the texture and opulent colors of Fortuny silks, Lust Glide Silk Infused Eye Liner is a soft, sharpen-able pencil with saturated color payoff and shine. Crafted in Germany, the pencil glides onto skin without skipping or tugging with a long-wearing formula that doubles as an eye shadow with effortless blending. I have two shades (Raven and Deep Espresso) in my makeup bag right now, but I'm planning to snag Jasper, a deep bronze shade, next.
Customer Review: "I recently purchased this in the shade Earth as my current eyeliner was starting to slightly irritate my eyes. It glides on and stays put but more importantly it causes me no irritation. Earth is a really beautiful brown. It's not too warm, more of a deep neutral and a great softer alternative to black. This is probably the softest eyeliner I have used and the best for sensitive eyes."
Formula: Cream | Shades: 6 | Finish: Matte
Pros: Dual-ended design combines pencil tip with smudging tool for effortless application
Cons: Offered at a high price point
Rounding out the list is the designer eyeliner Brascia and Schneider both swear by for bold and colorful eye looks. This waterproof gel eyeliner by Valentino features has a dual-ended design and cream, pigmented formula that allows for breezy application. It gives 24 hours of waterproof wear without fading or creasing and features a soft blending brush for sharp lines.
Customer Review: "This eyeliner is so good. The Valentino Colorgraph Gel Eyeliner glides on buttery smooth with zero tugging and gives super rich pigment in one swipe. It applies like a dream and once it sets it does not move! I’ve worn this all day and it stayed completely intact, no smudging, [and] no fading ( even on the waterline). It’s waterproof, long-lasting, and still feels comfortable on the eyes. If you want that sharp, clean liner look that actually lasts, this one is 100% worth it."
Brascia wearing Valentino Colograph Waterproof Gel Eyeliner.
How I Chose
As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To identify the 15 best eyeliner pencils to add to any makeup routine, I leaned on my industry knowledge and firsthand testing, as well as that of my fellow Who What Wear beauty editors. I also asked a makeup artist for their top product recommendations and tips/tricks for flawless application. As part of my research for this story, I considered several factors, including longevity, pigment, and versatility. I'm aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of preferences, so I made sure to list out all the helpful details. Of course, customer reviews were also kept in mind when creating this list.
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At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.
We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.
