10 Best Copic Markers in 2026

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The Copic Sketch 72-Piece Marker Set is our pick for best overall. It wins on its comprehensive 72-color palette, refillable design, and replaceable Super Brush and Medium Broad nibs. For artists who need precise fine details, the Copic Classic 72-Color Marker Set offers a dedicated fine nib, while the Copic Ciao 72-Color Marker Set is the best choice for a dual-brush experience on a budget.

Choosing the right Copic set means matching the color range and nib style to your specific work. A manga artist needs a different palette than a pastel illustrator, and a beginner needs a more focused, affordable entry point than a professional.

This guide is research-based, drawing on manufacturer specifications, expert round-ups, and patterns in owner feedback to help you choose confidently. We break down the ten best sets by their strengths, from comprehensive 72-color collections to specialized 3-color blending packs.

Top 10 Copic Markers in the Market

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The Best Copic Markers, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Copic Sketch 72-Piece Marker Set

Copic Sketch 72-Piece Marker Set
Number of markers72
Tip typesSuper Brush & Medium Broad
RefillableYes
Ink typeAlcohol-based, low-odor, non-toxic
IncludesColorless Blender (No. 0)
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What We Like

  • 72 curated colors for general illustration and manga
  • Replaceable Super Brush and Medium Broad nibs
  • Refillable with Copic Ink to reduce waste
  • Includes Colorless Blender for blending and corrections

Trade-offs

  • Weighs 3.1 lb, which is heavier than the Copic Ciao 72-set at 2.5 lb
  • Requires separate ink refills for long-term use.

A 72-piece set with a curated color range from every family means you can start detailed illustrations and manga work right out of the box. The included Colorless Blender lets you fade, blend, and even fix mistakes on paper, while the replaceable Super Brush and Medium Broad nibs give you both flexible stroke variation and crisp lines for finishing touches. This is the set for artists who want a professional-grade tool that grows with them, offering refillable markers and low-odor, non-toxic ink that keeps your workspace comfortable.

The main trade-off is the weight: at 3.1 pounds, it is heavier than the Copic Ciao 72-Color Marker Set, which weighs 2.5 pounds. The Ciao set is a different model with a simpler design. If you value replaceable nibs and a refillable system that saves material over time, the Sketch 72-Piece Set delivers the flexibility and longevity serious illustrators need.

Best for: Illustrators and manga artists who want a comprehensive, refillable marker set with replaceable nibs and a Colorless Blender.

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#2Best For Fine Details

Copic Classic 72-Color Marker Set

Copic Classic 72-Color Marker Set
Nib typesStandard Fine & Standard Broad
Ink typeAlcohol-based, low-odor, non-toxic
RefillableYes, with Copic Ink
CertificationACMI certified, ASTM D-4236
Number of colors72
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What We Like

  • Standard Fine nib for precise details
  • Refillable to save money and reduce waste
  • Low-odor, non-toxic alcohol ink
  • Replaceable nibs for extended use

Trade-offs

  • Lacks brush tip for varied line widths
  • Heavier than other Copic sets at 4.1 pounds
  • No airbrush system included with set

This set packs 72 colors, vivid tones, blending shades, and essential grays. You have a broad palette from the start. The alcohol-based ink is low-odor and non-toxic, making it comfortable for long sessions indoors. Because each marker is refillable, you only replace the ink, which cuts down on waste over time. The Standard Fine nib delivers crisp, controlled lines for detailed work, while the Standard Broad nib handles thick, consistent fills.

Weighing 4.1 pounds, this 72-marker set is a full pound heavier than the Copic Sketch 72-piece set at 3.1 pounds, making it less convenient to carry between locations. The extra weight comes from the larger marker bodies, which have a square, rounded-edge barrel designed for comfort during extended use. Reviewers note that while the set is less portable for travel or outdoor sketching, the stable feel on a desk or drafting table is appreciated. The included vivid tones, blending shades, and essential grays provide a solid foundation for building a collection, and the fast-drying, transparent alcohol ink won’t damage paper fibers, keeping the surface smooth.

Best for: Artists who need precise fine lines and a broad palette. Not ideal for those who prefer a brush tip for varied stroke widths.
#3Best 72-Color Dual Brush Set

Copic Ciao 72-Color Marker Set

Copic Ciao 72-Color Marker Set
Number of colors72
Tip typesSuper Brush & Medium Broad
Ink typeAlcohol-based, low-odor, non-toxic
Weight2.5 pounds
OriginMade in Japan
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What We Like

  • Dual brush tips for fine detail and broad fills
  • Fast-drying, layerable alcohol ink
  • ACMI-certified, non-toxic and low-odor

Trade-offs

  • Heavier than the 36-color Ciao set by over a pound
  • Round barrel differs from Sketch series oval grip

Seventy-two colors in one box means you can build subtle shadows and transparent washes without hunting for the right hue. The Super Brush tip lays down fine lines or blends wide sweeps, while the Medium Broad tip fills large areas fast. For comic artists, portrait sketchers, or anyone who values controlled gradients, this is a complete palette in one purchase.

Portability is the main compromise here. At 2.5 pounds and a 10.5-inch case, it is heavier and bulkier than the Copic Ciao 36-color set, which slips into a smaller bag. The round barrel of the Ciao markers is different from the oval body of the Copic Sketch markers, but both are designed for professional use. For the artist who wants a full neutral spectrum in one go, this set delivers professional blending without needing to buy separate packs.

Best for: Illustrators and manga artists who want a wide neutral palette for shading and depth. Not ideal for those who prefer bright, saturated colors or need a lightweight travel set.
#4Best For Pastel Art

Copic Ciao 36-Color Marker Set

Copic Ciao 36-Color Marker Set
Number of Colors36
Tip TypesSuper Brush & Medium Broad
Ink TypeAlcohol-based, refillable
Weight1.2 pounds
Country of OriginJapan
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What We Like

  • Refillable and replaceable nibs
  • Dual brush tips for versatile strokes
  • Majority yellows and soft pastel colors
  • ACMI-certified, safe for artists

Trade-offs

  • 36 colors limit range for complex projects
  • Set lacks deep or dark tones for shading

This 36-color Ciao set includes a majority of yellows with a variety of soft, light pastel colors. Artists working with light, airy palettes get a focused selection from the start. The dual tips, a flexible brush and a medium broad, let you switch between flowing lines and precise details without changing markers. Refillable design and replaceable nibs mean each marker can last through many projects, reducing waste over time.

The set’s 36 colors are fewer than the 72-color Ciao set, which offers a broader palette for complex work. Because it focuses on yellows and pastels, you will not find deep or dark tones here. If you need those for shading or contrast, a larger set like the 72-piece Sketch set would cover that range.

Best for: Artists and colorists who specialize in pastel, light, or soft-toned illustrations. Not ideal for those needing a full color range or deep, dark shading.

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#5Best For Manga Illustration

Copic Sketch 24-Color Marker Set

Copic Sketch 24-Color Marker Set
Tip TypesSuper Brush & Medium Broad
Ink TypeAlcohol-based, refillable
Number of Colors24
Made InJapan
Weight1.1 pounds
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What We Like

  • Refillable ink and replaceable nibs
  • Dual tips: Super Brush and Medium Broad
  • Fast-drying, blendable alcohol ink

Trade-offs

  • 24 colors limit palette for large projects
  • Heavier than smaller sets at 1.1 pounds

Twenty-four alcohol-based markers in a compact set give you a focused palette for detailed illustration and coloring. The dual tips, a flexible Super Brush and a Medium Broad, let you switch between fine lines and bold fills without changing pens. Refillable ink and replaceable nibs keep your favorite shades in action, which saves money and reduces waste over time. The set is made in Japan and weighs 1.1 pounds, so it sits comfortably on a desk or in a bag.

The main limitation is the number of colors. With 24, you have fewer options than larger sets such as the 72-piece Sketch set, which gives you more variety for complex projects. At 1.1 pounds, it is heavier than some smaller marker kits, but still portable enough for everyday use. For artists focused on character art and sequential panels, this set offers a practical balance between range and portability.

Best for: Artists who want a portable 24-color alcohol marker set with dual tips and refillable design. Not ideal for those needing a very wide color range for complex scenes.

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#6Best For Beginners

Copic Ciao 24-Piece Basic Marker Set

Copic Ciao 24-Piece Basic Marker Set
Number of Markers24
Tip TypesSuper Brush & Medium Broad
Country of OriginJapan
Weight0.8 pounds
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What We Like

  • Refillable ink and replaceable nibs
  • Dual tips: Super Brush and Medium Broad
  • Low-odor, non-toxic formula
  • Includes primaries, earth tones, neutrals, pastels

Trade-offs

  • 24 colors limit range for advanced projects
  • Smaller set than 36- or 72-color options
  • Ink refills and nibs sold separately

The 24-marker set includes primaries, earth tones, neutrals, and pastels, so a beginner can explore blending, shading, and highlights. The dual tips, a flexible brush and a medium broad, let you switch between flexible strokes and precise lines on the same marker. The low-odor, non-toxic formula makes it safe for drawing sessions at a desk or table.

The main limitation is that 24 colors limit the range for advanced projects compared to larger sets like the Copic Ciao 72-Color Set, which offers more hues from the start. But for a first step into Copic markers, this set provides the same refillable quality and Japanese craftsmanship as the larger sets. The color selection covers primaries, earth tones, neutrals, and pastels.

Best for: Beginners who want a refillable entry into Copic markers with a starter palette of primaries, earth tones, neutrals, and pastels. Not ideal for artists who need a wide range of colors for professional illustration from day one.

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#7Best For Green Tones

Copic Sketch Fusion Green 3-Color Set

Copic Sketch Fusion Green 3-Color Set
Colors includedG40, G43, G46
Nib typesSuper Brush & Medium Broad
RefillableYes
Ink typeAlcohol-based, low-odor
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What We Like

  • Pre-blended green family for smooth gradients
  • Refillable and nibs replaceable for long life
  • Dual-tip: flexible brush and precise broad
  • Low-odor, non-toxic formula

Trade-offs

  • Only three colors limit palette range
  • No cool or yellow-green included for variety
  • Broad nib less suited for ultra-fine details

This set includes three markers in the green color family (G40, G43, G46) so you can create smooth blends within that range without having to pick your own transition shades. The refillable bodies and replaceable nibs let you keep using the same markers for years, which is practical if you settle on a shade you like. The focused selection works well if your projects rely heavily on greens, but it won’t cover cool, warm, or yellow-green tones on its own.

The trade-off is obvious: three markers won’t cover a full project’s green needs if you work across cool, warm, or yellow-green tones. Compared to the Copic Sketch 12-Color Set, which offers a broader starter palette, this set demands that you already have other greens or plan to buy refills and additional markers to fill gaps. But for artists who want a dedicated green blending system from the start, the pre-matched trio removes the trial and error of picking your own transition shades.

Best for: Artists who need a focused set of three green markers for blending within the G40, G43, G46 family. Not ideal for those who require a wide variety of green tones or a general-purpose starter set.

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#8Best 12-Color Starter Set

Copic Classic 12-Color Marker Set

Copic Classic 12-Color Marker Set
Marker typeAlcohol-based
Tip typesStandard Fine & Broad
Number of colors12
RefillableYes
CertificationACMI certified
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What We Like

  • Refillable ink saves money and reduces waste
  • Replaceable nibs extend marker lifespan
  • Low-odor, non-toxic alcohol ink
  • Includes essential shades and vibrant primaries

Trade-offs

  • Only 12 colors limits blending range
  • No brush tip for varied stroke width

This 12-color set gives you essential shades and vibrant primaries, so you can sketch, draw, and begin building a collection without feeling overwhelmed. Each marker is refillable and has replaceable nibs, which means the set grows with you rather than ending up in the trash. The low-odor, non-toxic alcohol ink dries fast and won’t harm paper fibers, making it a clean choice for daily practice.

Twelve colors can feel limiting once you start blending or working on larger pieces, so this set is best for focused sketching or travel. The Standard Fine and Broad nibs deliver consistent lines, but there is no brush tip for varied stroke widths. If you want more blending flexibility from the start, the Sketch line offers dual-tip markers with a different nib design.

Best for: Beginners or artists wanting an affordable, refillable entry into Copic markers. Not ideal for those who need a brush tip or a wide color range for complex blending.
#9Best Lightweight Sketch Set

Copic Sketch 12-Color Marker Set

Copic Sketch 12-Color Marker Set
Marker Count12
Tip TypesSuper Brush & Medium Broad
RefillableYes
Weight0.2 pounds
OriginMade in Japan
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What We Like

  • Refillable and replaceable nibs
  • Lightweight at 0.2 pounds
  • Dual Super Brush and Medium Broad tips
  • Low-odor, non-toxic alcohol ink

Trade-offs

  • Only 12 colors limits complex blending
  • No cool gray or specialty tones included

A 0.2-pound weight makes this set easy to carry in a bag for sketching on the go. The 12 basic and primary colors (including V09, RV11, and 100) give beginners a versatile foundation for manga, drawing, or coloring without overwhelming choice. Each marker uses the same professional dual-tip design as the larger sets: Super Brush for flowing strokes and Medium Broad for crisp lines. The ink blends smoothly and is fast-drying, with a low-odor, non-toxic formula. This is the set to grab if you want to test Copic quality before committing to a bigger collection, or if you need a portable kit that doesn’t weigh you down.

A dozen markers naturally limit your palette for complex gradients or large-scale work where you would need many shades of one hue. Next to the 72-piece Sketch set, you lose a huge range of colors and the ability to blend across a wide spectrum. But for someone starting out or sketching on location, the smaller size keeps your focus on learning blending techniques with a few core colors. The refillable design means you can add shades one at a time as your skills grow. It is a deliberate, affordable entry point into the Copic system.

Best for: Beginners or traveling artists who want a lightweight, refillable starter set of professional alcohol markers. Not ideal for illustrators needing a broad color range for complex, multi-hue work.
#10Best Cool Gray Set

Copic Markers 12-Piece Cool Gray Set

Copic Markers 12-Piece Cool Gray Set
Number of markers12
Nib typesStandard Fine and Standard Broad
Ink typeAlcohol-based, refillable
Barrel designSquare, rounded-edge
OriginMade in Japan
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What We Like

  • Refillable ink reduces long-term waste
  • Replaceable nibs extend marker life
  • Compatible with Copic airbrush system
  • Comfortable square barrel for grip

Trade-offs

  • Only 12 markers limit color range for large projects
  • Standard nibs lack a brush tip for varied strokes

A 12-piece set of cool gray alcohol markers offers a focused palette for shading, value studies, and monochromatic sketches without the overwhelm of a full color collection. Each marker is refillable and has replaceable nibs, so you can keep the same set working for years rather than tossing dried-out pens. The square barrel sits comfortably in hand, and the dual fine and broad tips give you both crisp lines and wider fills. This set suits artists who need reliable grays for manga, architectural rendering, or adding depth to colored work without hunting for the perfect neutral.

Twelve markers cover only a limited set of cool gray shades. If you are working on a large illustration with many subtle transitions, you may find yourself blending more than you would like. Next to the 72-piece Sketch set, which includes a full spectrum of colors, this set is far more focused for those who just need grays. It comes with standard fine and broad nibs, so if you want a brush tip for varied strokes, you would need to buy additional nibs separately. For dedicated grayscale work, though, these twelve deliver consistent, blendable results straight from the box.

Best for: Artists and illustrators who need a dedicated set of cool gray markers for shading, value studies, or monochromatic work. Not ideal for those who want a brush tip or a broad color range for full-color projects.

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How We Evaluated Copic Markers

To build this guide, we examined each set’s specifications, manufacturer documentation, and expert round-ups from art communities. We also analyzed patterns in owner feedback to understand what real artists value most in their markers.

Our evaluation focused on four key criteria: color range and palette suitability for different art styles, nib versatility (brush vs. Fine vs. Broad tips), refillability and replaceable parts for long-term value, and overall weight and portability. For example, the Copic Sketch series’ Super Brush nib is a major advantage for varied line widths. The Classic series’ Standard Fine nib excels at precision.

We prioritized sets that consistently appear in expert recommendations and receive positive feedback for their specific use cases, from manga illustration to pastel art.

What To Look For In Copic Markers

Choosing the right Copic set starts with understanding how you work. The table below compares our top picks, but here are the key factors to consider before you buy.

The best Copic set matches your art style: brush tips for varied strokes, fine nibs for detail, a broad color range for complex work, and refillability for long-term value.

Nib Type and Versatility

Copic markers come in three main nib styles: the Super Brush (flexible, found on Sketch and Ciao models), the Medium Broad (chisel tip for fills), and the Standard Fine (precise, found on Classic models). The Super Brush is ideal for illustrators and manga artists who need varied line widths, while the Standard Fine is better for detailed linework and technical drawing.

Color Range and Palette

Sets range from 3 to 72 colors. A 72-color set like the Copic Sketch or Ciao gives you the most blending and shading options, while smaller sets like the 12-color or 24-color options are more affordable and portable. Some sets specialize in specific tones, such as the Copic Sketch Fusion Green 3-Color Set for green gradients or the Copic Markers 12-Piece Cool Gray Set for monochromatic shading.

Refillability and Replaceable Nibs

All Copic markers are refillable with separate ink refills, and nibs can be replaced when they wear out. This makes them a more sustainable and cost-effective choice over time compared to disposable markers. The Sketch and Ciao series also feature replaceable nibs, extending the life of each marker significantly.

  • Check if the set includes a Colorless Blender (essential for blending and corrections).
  • Consider the weight: heavier sets like the Copic Classic 72 (4.1 lb) are less portable.
  • Look for low-odor, non-toxic formulas if you work in a shared space.
  • Verify that the set’s colors match your typical subject matter (e.g., greens for landscapes, grays for shading).
  • Think about future expansion: some sets are designed to be built upon with additional individual markers.

A good rule of thumb: start with a set that matches your most common subject matter, then expand with individual refills.

Copic Markers Compared

The table below compares the ten Copic marker sets side by side, highlighting their best uses, color counts, and key trade-offs.

ProductNumber of MarkersTip TypesRefillableInk Type
Copic Sketch 72-Piece Marker Set72Super Brush & Medium BroadYesAlcohol-based, low-odor, non-toxic
Copic Classic 72-Color Marker Set72Standard Fine & Standard BroadYesAlcohol-based, low-odor, non-toxic
Copic Ciao 72-Color Marker Set72Super Brush & Medium BroadN/AAlcohol-based, low-odor, non-toxic
Copic Ciao 36-Color Marker Set36Super Brush & Medium BroadYesAlcohol-based, refillable
Copic Sketch 24-Color Marker Set24Super Brush & Medium BroadYesAlcohol-based, refillable
Copic Ciao 24-Piece Basic Marker Set24Super Brush & Medium BroadYesAlcohol-based
Copic Sketch Fusion Green 3-Color Set3Super Brush & Medium BroadYesAlcohol-based, low-odor
Copic Classic 12-Color Marker Set12Standard Fine & BroadYesAlcohol-based
Copic Sketch 12-Color Marker Set12Super Brush & Medium BroadYesAlcohol-based
Copic Markers 12-Piece Cool Gray Set12Standard Fine and Standard BroadYesAlcohol-based, refillable

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Copic Sketch, Ciao, and Classic markers?

The main difference is the nib and barrel design. Copic Sketch markers have a Super Brush nib and a Medium Broad nib on an oval barrel, ideal for illustrators. Ciao markers have the same dual brush tips but a round barrel and slightly less ink capacity, making them more affordable. Classic markers use a Standard Fine nib and a Medium Broad nib on a square barrel, best for precise linework.

Which Copic marker set is best for beginners?

The Copic Ciao 24-Piece Basic Marker Set is a strong starting point. It includes a balanced palette of primaries, earth tones, neutrals, and pastels, with dual brush tips for versatility. It is refillable and has replaceable nibs, so it grows with your skills without requiring a large upfront investment.

Are Copic markers refillable?

Yes, all Copic markers are refillable with separate Copic Ink refills. This reduces waste and saves money over time, as you can replenish colors instead of buying new markers. The Sketch and Ciao series also have replaceable nibs, further extending their lifespan.

How many colors do I need for professional illustration?

For professional illustration, a 72-color set like the Copic Sketch or Ciao provides the most blending and shading flexibility. However, many artists work effectively with 24 or 36 carefully chosen colors, especially if they focus on a specific style or subject matter. Starting with a smaller set and adding individual markers is a common approach.

Can I use Copic markers with an airbrush system?

Yes, many Copic markers are compatible with the Copic Airbrush System. The Copic Markers 12-Piece Cool Gray Set, for example, is noted for its compatibility with this system. You will need to purchase the airbrush kit separately.

The Bottom Line

For most illustrators and manga artists, the Copic Sketch 72-Piece Marker Set is the best overall choice. Its comprehensive color range, refillable design, and versatile Super Brush nib make it a professional-grade tool that will serve you for years. If you need precise fine details, the Copic Classic 72-Color Marker Set is a worthy alternative.

Budget-conscious beginners should look at the Copic Ciao 24-Piece Basic Marker Set, which offers the same dual brush tips and refillability at a lower entry price. For specialized work, the Copic Sketch Fusion Green 3-Color Set or the Copic Markers 12-Piece Cool Gray Set deliver focused palettes for blending and shading.

The single most important factor in choosing a Copic set is matching the color range and nib type to your specific art style. A well-chosen set will save you money and frustration while helping you create your best work.