10Best.Guide

Permanent Markers

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Vibrant colors
  • Long-lasting
  • Good variety of colors
  • Writes nicely
  • Gold standard of markers
Cons
  • Bleeds through
  • Late delivery and damaged product
Bottom Line
Sharpie permanent markers are a gold standard of markers with vibrant colors and long-lasting ink. However, they may bleed through and dry out quickly. Some customers have reported late delivery and damaged products, while others have experienced issues with the paint not transferring adequately or the caps drying out quickly.
Pros
  • Performs extremely well and lasts for a long time.
  • Lid snaps on very tight, letting the marker last for multiple years.
  • Great for line requirements and writing on odd surfaces.
  • Convenient box that’s easy to store.
  • No writing instrument more practical than a permanent marker.
Cons
  • Cheaper alternatives do not perform as well.
  • Fresh pens do not seem as wet as the old ones.
Bottom Line
The Sharpie permanent marker is an inexpensive, long-lasting, and high-quality product that performs extremely well and is great for line requirements and writing on odd surfaces. However, cheaper alternatives do not perform as well, and some users have experienced issues with the freshness and quality of the pens.
Pros
  • Long-lasting
  • Good for adult coloring
  • No streaking
  • Great for making signs
  • Easy to control tip
Cons
  • Limited color variety
  • Inconsistent ink flow
Bottom Line
Sharpies are a versatile and long-lasting marker that are great for a variety of uses, including adult coloring, making signs, and labeling. However, some colors may dry up quickly and there is limited color variety.
Pros
  • Variety of tip options
  • Reliable and long-lasting
  • Good for labeling and addressing
  • Great for teachers and artists
  • Intensely black ink
Cons
  • Some markers may be dried out
  • Ink turns purple when wet
Bottom Line
This Sharpie variety pack offers a reliable and versatile set of markers with a range of tip sizes. However, some markers may be dried out and the ink may turn purple when wet. Overall, a good purchase for labeling, addressing, and artistic purposes.
Pros
  • Good value for the price
  • Versatile and write on most surfaces
  • Fat tip erases top secret comments easily
  • Ink is strong and long-lasting
  • Convenient to have in every room
Cons
  • Some markers may arrive dried out
  • Quality of ink and pens may have changed
Bottom Line
These Sharpie Fine Point Permanent Markers are a good value for the price and are versatile for use on most surfaces. However, some markers may arrive dried out and the quality of ink and pens may have changed. It is still a convenient and useful product to have in every room.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Permanent Markers: Tips, Types, and Features

Overview

Permanent markers are a versatile writing tool that can be used for a variety of purposes, from labeling household items to creating art projects. However, with so many options on the market, it can be challenging to find the right permanent markers for your needs. In this buying guide, we'll cover the different types of permanent markers, key considerations to keep in mind when shopping, and features to look for. We'll also provide tips for using and storing your permanent markers, as well as answer some frequently asked questions.

Types

1. Fine point markers: These markers have a small, pointed tip that is perfect for writing and drawing with precision. They're ideal for labeling small items or creating detailed artwork.

2. Broad tip markers: These markers have a wider tip that is great for filling in large areas quickly. They're ideal for creating signs or posters.

3. Chisel tip markers: These markers have a flat, angled tip that can be used for both fine and broad strokes. They're ideal for creating calligraphy or adding shading to artwork.

4. Industrial markers: These markers are designed for use on tough surfaces like metal, plastic, or wood. They're ideal for labeling equipment or tools.

5. DIY markers: These markers are designed for use on fabric, glass, or other surfaces. They're ideal for creating custom t-shirts or decorating wine glasses.

Key Considerations

1. Ink quality: Look for markers with high-quality, permanent ink that won't fade or smudge over time.

2. Tip shape and size: Consider the type of projects you'll be using the markers for and choose a tip shape and size that suits your needs.

3. Color variety: Look for markers with a wide range of colors to choose from.

4. Non-toxic: If you'll be using the markers around children or pets, look for non-toxic options.

5. Brand reputation: Consider the reputation of the brand you're buying from and read reviews from other customers.

Features

1. Waterproof: Look for markers that are waterproof if you'll be using them on items that may get wet.

2. Fade-resistant: Look for markers that are fade-resistant if you'll be using them for long-term labeling or artwork.

3. Quick-drying: Look for markers that dry quickly to avoid smudging.

4. Acid-free: Look for markers that are acid-free if you'll be using them for archival purposes.

5. Dual-tip: Some markers have a dual-tip design, with a fine point on one end and a broad or chisel tip on the other.

Prices

Permanent markers can range in price from a few dollars to over $50 for a set. Consider your budget and the quality of the markers when making your purchase.

Tips

1. Store markers horizontally to prevent the ink from settling at the bottom of the barrel.

2. Recap markers when not in use to prevent them from drying out.

3. Test markers on a small area before using them on a larger project to ensure that they won't bleed or smudge.

4. Use rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover to remove permanent marker from surfaces.

5. Clean marker tips with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any excess ink.

FAQs

Q: Can permanent markers be used on fabric?

A: Yes, there are permanent markers designed specifically for use on fabric.

Q: Can permanent markers be used on glass?

A: Yes, there are permanent markers designed specifically for use on glass.

Q: Are permanent markers waterproof?

A: Some permanent markers are waterproof, but not all.

Q: Can permanent marker be removed from surfaces?

A: It depends on the surface. Rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover can be used to remove permanent marker from some surfaces.

Q: Are permanent markers non-toxic?

A: Some permanent markers are non-toxic, but not all. Be sure to check the label before using them around children or pets.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the right permanent markers can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge, you can make an informed decision. Consider the type of projects you'll be using the markers for, the ink quality, tip shape and size, color variety, and brand reputation. Look for features like waterproof and fade-resistant ink, quick-drying, and acid-free options. With these tips and considerations in mind, you'll be able to find the perfect permanent markers for your needs.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • More affordable than Sharpie.
  • Black, solid line, and long-lasting.
  • Many colors for the money.
  • Good for labeling things.
  • Hold up really well on demanding surfaces.
Cons
  • Dries out faster on receipt paper.
  • One of the 12 received was dried out.
Bottom Line
Amazon Basics Permanent Markers are a more affordable alternative to Sharpie markers. They are good for labeling things and hold up well on demanding surfaces. However, they may not be suitable for art projects and may have some issues with drying out and bleeding.
Pros
  • Good quality markers
  • Affordable price
  • Convenient packaging
  • Perfect for those who need fewer markers
  • Writes perfectly
Cons
  • Some markers may dry out quickly
  • Inconsistent labeling
Bottom Line
The Sharpie Fine Point Black Markers are a good quality product at an affordable price. However, some markers may dry out quickly and there may be inconsistencies in labeling. It is a good option for those who need fewer markers.
Pros
  • Good value for the price
  • No odor
  • Bold and solid black marks
  • Can write on anything
  • Pointed tip for outlining
Cons
  • Ink dries out quickly
  • Leaks black ink on fingers
Bottom Line
These markers are a good value for the price and provide solid black marks with no odor. However, they may dry out quickly and leak black ink on fingers. They are great for labeling food prep containers and outlining, but may not be suitable for fine detail work.
Pros
  • Very smooth and do not leave stroke marks.
  • Great for adult coloring.
  • True to their colors.
  • Efficient delivery.
  • Non-toxic smelling.
Cons
  • Some colors are deceiving to their lid colors.
  • Several of the markers barely lasted through one picture.
Bottom Line
These markers are great for adult coloring and cheap permanent markers for coloring books. They are true to their colors and non-toxic smelling. However, some colors are deceiving to their lid colors, and several of the markers barely lasted through one picture. They are not a true replacement for Sharpies and some of the markers seemed to be a little dried out.
Pros
  • Low odor and fast drying.
  • Great for coloring and recoloring.
  • Good for rubbing alcohol art.
  • Great price for the number of markers.
  • Variety of colors.
Cons
  • Color not as good as Sharpies.
  • Not fine tips as advertised.
Bottom Line
These markers are a good option for those looking for a variety of colors at a lower price point. They work well for coloring, recoloring, and rubbing alcohol art. However, they may not be as high quality as Sharpies and some colors may require multiple coats. The packaging and labeling could also be improved.
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