




Quick List - Top Mechanical Pencils

Katrina is a freelance writer who joined the myBest PH team in January 2021. She is interested in writing about hobbies and anything that falls under entertainment. When not writing on the Internet, you can find her in bookstores and cinemas, or engaged in a conversation about art and media.
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It is better to use a mechanical pencil than an ordinary pencil because you can replace the lead, eliminating the need to sharpen it every time it gets dull—this also means no mess from pencil shavings! Its length stays the same, so the balance is consistent no matter how long you use it.
A mechanical pencil is more comfortable to hold than a wooden pencil because of its ergonomic grip. With a mechanical pencil, the lines are consistent compared to ordinary pencils, which create thin lines when newly sharpened and thick lines as you keep on writing. You can also choose the style and material of your mechanical pencil, depending on your need.
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
There are many methods that are used to advance the lead of mechanical pencils. You can choose which method suits you the most, and this is one of the most important things you need to consider when buying a mechanical pencil.
Mechanical pencils with a push-button mechanism are the most common in the market. You can control the length of the lead to advance with each click. The button is usually placed on the top of the mechanical pencil.
Another common mechanism aside from the push-button or click one is the twist-click mechanism. To advance the lead, just twist the top part of the pen and it will click forward. In some pens, you can even reverse the lead by twisting the barrel in the opposite direction.
A mechanical pencil with a shaker mechanism advances the lead using an internal sliding weight. To activate it, flick your wrist, and the lead will descend on its own. If you want to advance the lead without changing your grip, this kind of mechanical pencil would be perfect for you.
This type of mechanism is also ideal for those who need to write continuously without skipping a beat. Examples of instances where this pen can be advantageous are during long lectures where you have to write notes as you listen and anytime you're in a time crunch and want to write without having to push or click anything.
Using a mechanical pencil with an automatic mechanism allows you to do your work without interruption. You do not have to do anything to advance the lead as it automatically pushes more lead. However, the lead sleeve will drag on the paper, so you need to keep this in mind before making a purchase.
Additionally, an auto-feed mechanical pencil is much harder find compared to other mechanical pencils, but they can be very efficient and can cause less hassle. You might need some time to adjust to its mechanism, but if you want to write without clicking, twisting, or losing your grip, then this type of mechanical pencil is your best bet.
The body of a mechanical pencil is made from different materials like plastic, metal, wood, and more. These aren't just for aesthetic purposes, but depending on the material and its weight, the way the pencil fits your hand can change. Read further to know more about these materials commonly used in mechanical pencils.
Plastic is the most common material used for mechanical pencils. It is lightweight and more affordable than pencils made from other materials. Since they are lighter, they also allow you to write fast. However, you will need to apply a bit of pressure when controlling it, which could be a bit tiring and harder to control than a heavy one.
Meanwhile, when it comes to durability, mechanical pencils with a plastic body are not recommended for long time use. Those who have sweaty hands may also want to avoid this because plastic-bodied mechanical pencils can get slippery. Still, a plastic mechanical pencil is still the best option if you think faster than you write and need a light pencil to quickly jot down your ideas.
A lot of drafting mechanical pencils or expensive brands use metal for its body. Despite it being on the heavier side, it is very durable, which means you can use it for a long time. It may take you years and years before you need to replace it, so it is worth investing in a mechanical pencil with a metal body.
Since they have a metal body, metal mechanical pencils tend to feel heavy. An advantage of this is that you won’t need to put much pressure when writing. It is easier to control, so you can draw stable lines or write letters perfectly. One thing to note is that you may need a little bit of strength in holding it; which is something that you can get used to eventually.
If you are looking for a classic aesthetic with mechanical precision, a wooden mechanical pencil is a clear choice. This type of mechanical pencil is made of a material with a chic texture and may weigh a little heavy. However, an advantage of this material compared to plastic and metal is that it won't slip even if your hands get a little sweaty.
On the other hand, the disadvantage is that you cannot find many variations of this type, so you might have a hard time looking for it. Also, since the body is made of wood, it can cause calluses if you have a strong grip. Still, wooden mechanical pencils are a great addition to your stationery collection, especially if you're into chic and minimalist designs.
On the other hand, a thin lead is perfect for making little details, especially in drafting. Keep in mind that thin lead breaks easily, so it is suited for those with weak pencil pressure. Ask yourself, “Is my pencil pressure high or low?” and choose the product that matches your preference.
The body or grip diameter is a very important factor as it can affect how it fits your hand. Check for its comfort level when you grip the pencil and see if you get tired or not while using it. This differs from one person to another, so choose the thickness that matches your hand.
Thin mechanical pencils are difficult to grip tightly, especially if you have big hands, so using those with a wider body allows you to grip it naturally. You can also put less strain on your hands if you use a mechanical pencil that fits your hands well.
This type is recommended for those people who tend to write with a lot of pressure. It is not tiring to use, and it will also help you hold your pen the correct way.
It needs less power to control a thinner pen, so mechanical pencils with a thin body are recommended for those who write with a light hand. This type is also good when drawing details, so this is suitable for people working as architects and engineers and students in the field of art.
If you do not want to exert much pressure on your grip and need as many details on your work, this one is for you. You probably won't miss any details when you use this kind of mechanical pencil!
When purchasing a mechanical pencil, try to take note of its additional features, such as built-in erasers and clips. Most mechanical pencils have erasers attached to them for emergency use, so you can quickly erase something. You can easily replace the eraser when it runs out.
If you need to use your mechanical pencil most of the time, you can choose one with a clip. You can securely place your mechanical pencil on your shirt or pocket, so you can easily reach it when needed. This also prevents your mechanical pencil from rolling around on your workstation.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lead Advance Mechanism | Material | Weight | Lead Size | Grip Diameter | Additional Features | |||||
1 | Pentel Graph Gear 500 Mechanical Pencil | ![]() | Precision Meets Comfort for Everyday Writing | Click | Plastic, Metal | 17 g | 0.5 mm | 8 mm | Retractable Tip, Knurled Grip, Lightweight Design, Professional Look | |
2 | Faber-Castell AutoClick 0.5mm Mechanical Pencil | ![]() | Smooth Writing, One Click at a Time | Click | Plastic | 9 g | 0.5 mm | 7 mm | Auto-Click Mechanism, Lightweight Design, Ergonomic Grip, Compact Size | |
3 | Deli Mechanical Pencil|SH112/SH113 | ![]() | Your Go-To Pencil for Daily Tasks | Click | Plastic | 12 g | 0.5 mm | 7 mm | Textured Grip, Lightweight Body, Compact Size, Smooth Click Mechanism | |
4 | Uni Kuru Toga Roulette Mechanical Pencil 0.5mm | ![]() | Keep Your Lead Sharp With Every Stroke | Automatic | Plastic, Metal | 18 g | 0.5 mm | 8 mm | Kuru Toga Mechanism, Textured Grip, Sleek Design, Durable Build | |
5 | Faber-Castell 0.7mm Bubble Mechanical Pencil | ![]() | Smooth Writing With a Comfortable Grip | Click | Plastic | 15 g | 0.7 mm | 9 mm | Bubble Grip, Lightweight Body, Smooth Click Mechanism, Sleek Design | |
6 | Zebra Delguard Unbreakable Mechanical Pencil 0.5mm|MA85 | ![]() | Write Boldly Without Fear of Breakage | Automatic | Plastic, Metal | 19 g | 0.5 mm | 8 mm | DelGuard System, Ergonomic Grip, Durable Body, Sleek Design | |
7 | MONGOL Mates Refillable Mechanical Pencil | ![]() | Classic Style Meets Refillable Convenience | Click | Plastic | 14 g | 0.5 mm | 7 mm | Refillable Design, Smooth Click Mechanism, Lightweight Body, Timeless Style | |
8 | Deli Metal Mechanical Pencil | ![]() | Durable Metal Pencil for Smooth, Comfortable Writing | Click | Metal | 20 g | 0.5 mm | 8 mm | Retractable Nib, Comfortable Grip, Durable Metal Body, Sleek Design | |
9 | Tombow Mono Graph Mechanical Pencil | ![]() | Your Reliable Companion for Notes and Sketches | Automatic | Plastic, Metal | 16 g | 0.5 mm | 8 mm | Auto-Advance Mechanism, Ergonomic Grip, Lightweight Body, Sleek Design | |
10 | Faber-Castell ECON 0.5mm Mechanical Pencil | ![]() | Lightweight Design, Consistent Performance | Click | Plastic | 13 g | 0.5 mm | 7 mm | Click Mechanism, Comfortable Grip, Lightweight Body, Practical Design | |
Users praise the pencil's precise lead advancement and smooth writing performance. Many highlight the comfortable grip that reduces hand fatigue during extended use. Some appreciate the durable build that feels high-quality despite its light weight. Others mention that it’s ideal for detailed work, note-taking, or professional drafting.
| Lead Advance Mechanism | Click |
|---|---|
| Material | Plastic, Metal |
| Weight | 17 g |
| Lead Size | 0.5 mm |
| Grip Diameter | 8 mm |
| Additional Features | Retractable Tip, Knurled Grip, Lightweight Design, Professional Look |
The AutoClick of this pencil delivers consistent lead with minimal effort. This pencil feels balanced in hand, making note-taking and sketching easier. Known for its portability, it fits conveniently into bags or cases without adding bulk. Overall, it's a reliable choice for students, artists, and professionals seeking precision.
| Lead Advance Mechanism | Click |
|---|---|
| Material | Plastic |
| Weight | 9 g |
| Lead Size | 0.5 mm |
| Grip Diameter | 7 mm |
| Additional Features | Auto-Click Mechanism, Lightweight Design, Ergonomic Grip, Compact Size |
This pencil delivers consistent lead flow, keeping writing neat and precise. Its ergonomic grip makes even long sessions comfortable and controlled. Known for its durability, it handles daily use without issue. It's a practical tool for school, office, or creative projects.
| Lead Advance Mechanism | Click |
|---|---|
| Material | Plastic |
| Weight | 12 g |
| Lead Size | 0.5 mm |
| Grip Diameter | 7 mm |
| Additional Features | Textured Grip, Lightweight Body, Compact Size, Smooth Click Mechanism |
Users love how this pencil keeps the lead sharp and consistent, making every stroke precise. The pencil’s balanced weight makes long writing sessions effortless and comfortable. Its durable build stands up well to daily use, while the sleek design adds a touch of style.
| Lead Advance Mechanism | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Material | Plastic, Metal |
| Weight | 18 g |
| Lead Size | 0.5 mm |
| Grip Diameter | 8 mm |
| Additional Features | Kuru Toga Mechanism, Textured Grip, Sleek Design, Durable Build |
A favorite for its soft bubble grip, this pencil makes extended writing sessions more comfortable. The lead advances smoothly with each click, producing clean lines every time. Its lightweight design feels balanced in hand, and the cheerful style adds a touch of fun. Generally, it's ideal for students, professionals, or anyone who enjoys effortless writing.
| Lead Advance Mechanism | Click |
|---|---|
| Material | Plastic |
| Weight | 15 g |
| Lead Size | 0.7 mm |
| Grip Diameter | 9 mm |
| Additional Features | Bubble Grip, Lightweight Body, Smooth Click Mechanism, Sleek Design |
Features and benefits:
Buyers love how the DelGuard system keeps the lead from breaking, allowing uninterrupted writing. Its ergonomic grip and balanced weight make long note-taking or sketching sessions comfortable. The sturdy construction ensures it withstands daily use without damage.
| Lead Advance Mechanism | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Material | Plastic, Metal |
| Weight | 19 g |
| Lead Size | 0.5 mm |
| Grip Diameter | 8 mm |
| Additional Features | DelGuard System, Ergonomic Grip, Durable Body, Sleek Design |
Economical and eco-friendly, this pencil’s refillable design keeps it in use for the long term. Its smooth click mechanism ensures clean, uninterrupted writing or sketching. The lightweight body feels balanced and comfortable in hand.
| Lead Advance Mechanism | Click |
|---|---|
| Material | Plastic |
| Weight | 14 g |
| Lead Size | 0.5 mm |
| Grip Diameter | 7 mm |
| Additional Features | Refillable Design, Smooth Click Mechanism, Lightweight Body, Timeless Style |
Features and benefits:
This pencil impresses with its retractable nib, keeping lead safe and intact. Its metal construction feels sturdy yet balanced, making writing comfortable over extended periods. The pencil's ergonomic grip adds precision and ease, while the stylish design complements any workspace. It's an ideal option for students, professionals, and artists who value reliability and durability.
| Lead Advance Mechanism | Click |
|---|---|
| Material | Metal |
| Weight | 20 g |
| Lead Size | 0.5 mm |
| Grip Diameter | 8 mm |
| Additional Features | Retractable Nib, Comfortable Grip, Durable Metal Body, Sleek Design |
Features and benefits:
A favorite for its auto-advance mechanism, this pencil keeps lead flowing smoothly with minimal effort. The sleek design adds a professional touch to any workspace. Also, the pencil's ergonomic grip makes long writing or sketching sessions comfortable and controlled.
| Lead Advance Mechanism | Automatic |
|---|---|
| Material | Plastic, Metal |
| Weight | 16 g |
| Lead Size | 0.5 mm |
| Grip Diameter | 8 mm |
| Additional Features | Auto-Advance Mechanism, Ergonomic Grip, Lightweight Body, Sleek Design |
Admired for its smooth and consistent lead flow, this pencil makes note-taking and sketching effortless. The lightweight body and comfortable grip allow for extended use without hand fatigue. Its practical, durable design stands up well to daily use.
| Lead Advance Mechanism | Click |
|---|---|
| Material | Plastic |
| Weight | 13 g |
| Lead Size | 0.5 mm |
| Grip Diameter | 7 mm |
| Additional Features | Click Mechanism, Comfortable Grip, Lightweight Body, Practical Design |
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Mechanical pencils are good for drawing because they have a consistently sharpened tip that can draw fine and precise lines. Aside from that, they don't need to be sharpened, and it can take days before your next refill, so you can work continuously without having to sharpen your pencil every few minutes.
They are not great, though, when it comes to shading. For this, a traditional pencil is better as it can create beautiful tones by laying down varying shade levels. Still, mechanical pencils are great for sketching and drafting as they have less graphite and, therefore, a lighter shade when used on paper.
Some mechanical pencils come with a built-in eraser. Like the lead, the eraser is usually refillable, so you can easily replace it once it runs out. If you can't find anything compatible with your pencil, however, the best thing to do is to get another eraser.
The downside of erasers in mechanical pencils is that they are usually too small, which can be annoying when you're erasing large writing or drawings. Depending on the brand, they also tend to be of low quality, so they might scratch the paper and ruin your work. To address this, many suggest having a separate eraser that you can use aside from the one that came with the pencil.
Like any wooden pencil, mechanical pencil lead is usually non-toxic. Graphite is a carbon-based substance that does not contain any lead. Mechanical pencils are minimally-toxic and are not likely to cause any harm if swallowed or drawn onto the skin.
If you're wondering why, this is because pencil "lead" is very small, and while eating, it might give your tongue and mouth a different color, it will definitely not hurt you in any way. Unless you deliberately consume a large amount of lead, you will not run into any problems.
Although it is very convenient to just take down your notes using your smartphone, writing it down using a pen and paper still has different feel to it, especially when you want to be productive! Check out the links down below for some more of our product recommendations.
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
No. 1: Pentel|Graph Gear 500 Mechanical Pencil
No. 2: Faber-Castell|AutoClick 0.5mm Mechanical Pencil
No. 3: Deli|Mechanical Pencil|SH112/SH113
No. 4: Uni|Kuru Toga Roulette Mechanical Pencil 0.5mm
No. 5: Faber-Castell|0.7mm Bubble Mechanical Pencil
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.

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