Best Eyeliner Pencils of 2025 – Smooth, Long-Wear Picks

When it comes to eyeliner pencils, the right one can completely transform your makeup routine. Whether you’re after a sharp cat-eye, a smoky, lived-in look, or an everyday soft line, the best eyeliner pencils of 2025 deliver smooth application, intense color, and all-day wear—no smudging or fading.

After testing dozens of formulas, from gel-infused liners to waterproof pencils, we’ve rounded up the 12 best options that are easy to use, beginner-friendly, and totally foolproof.

 

 

Why Eyeliner Pencils Are a Must-Have in 2025

While liquid liners and gels have their place, eyeliner pencils continue to reign supreme in versatility and ease. This year’s formulas are better than ever—combining creamy textures, bold pigmentation, and smudge-proof finishes.

Here’s why makeup pros (and we!) love them:

  • Effortless application: Perfect for quick morning routines or touch-ups.

  • Versatile results: From clean lines to sultry smudges.

  • Long wear makeup: Many 2025 formulas last up to 24 hours.

  • Travel-friendly: No need for brushes or pots—just twist and apply.

Whether you’re going for classic black eyeliner or something bolder like navy, brown, or metallic hues, these picks will help you achieve a flawless eye look with ease.

 

 

The 12 Best Eyeliner Pencils of 2025

1. Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil

Best Overall

Still a fan favorite in 2025, the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On pencil glides effortlessly across the lash line. It’s creamy upon application, sets quickly, and stays put through humidity, sweat, and long nights out.

Why we love it:

  • Over 20 shades available

  • Waterproof and smudge-resistant

  • Infused with vitamin E and jojoba oil for comfort

Pro tip: Use it as a shadow base before blending for extra intensity.

 

 

2. Maybelline TattooStudio Gel Pencil Liner

Best Drugstore Pick

This affordable gem delivers luxury results at a fraction of the price. Maybelline’s TattooStudio Gel Pencil gives you 36-hour wear and intense pigment, making it ideal for busy schedules.

Why we love it:

  • Creamy gel formula

  • Long-lasting and fade-proof

  • Available in both matte and shimmer finishes

 

 

3. Charlotte Tilbury Rock ’n’ Kohl Eyeliner Pencil

Best for Smoky Eyes

For that sultry, red-carpet smoky eye, Charlotte Tilbury’s Rock ’n’ Kohl is unbeatable. It combines the rich pigment of a liquid liner with the blendability of a pencil.

Why we love it:

  • Smooth, kohl-based texture

  • Long-lasting and smudgeable

  • Ideal for soft glam or dramatic looks

 

 

4. NYX Epic Wear Liner Stick

Best Waterproof Liner

If you want something that won’t budge, even through rain or tears, the NYX Epic Wear Liner Stick is your best friend. It’s waterproof, sweat-proof, and comes in fun metallics for extra edge.

Why we love it:

  • 36-hour wear

  • Creamy glide texture

  • Budget-friendly and cruelty-free

 

 

5. NARS High-Pigment Longwear Eyeliner

Best for Intense Pigment

NARS nails the balance between creamy and firm with this long-wearing pencil. It gives vivid color payoff in one stroke and sets for a budge-proof finish.

Why we love it:

  • Rich color intensity

  • Perfect for both upper and lower lash lines

  • Long-lasting without tugging

 

 

6. e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner

Best for Beginners

If you’re new to eyeliner, the e.l.f. No Budge Liner is your go-to. It’s retractable, so no sharpener needed, and the formula blends beautifully before setting for the day.

Why we love it:

  • Vegan and cruelty-free

  • Affordable yet effective

  • Ideal for natural or bold looks

 

 

7. Sephora Collection 12HR Contour Pencil Eyeliner

Best Multi-Use Liner

This multitasking pencil offers 12-hour wear and comes in a huge shade range. Use it on the waterline, lash line, or as a smudgy base for eyeshadow.

Why we love it:

  • Silky texture

  • Waterproof formula

  • Great for layering under shadows

 

 

8. Revlon So Fierce! Vinyl Eyeliner

Best for a Glossy Finish

For a fresh twist on classic liner, Revlon So Fierce! Vinyl delivers a high-shine, gel-like finish that catches the light beautifully.

Why we love it:

  • Unique glossy texture

  • Easy glide with precise control

  • Long-lasting and flake-free

 

 

9. Pat McGrath Labs PermaGel Ultra Glide Eye Pencil

Best Luxury Liner

When it comes to high-end quality, Pat McGrath never disappoints. This ultra-glide pencil offers editorial-level precision with a velvety, rich finish that feels weightless.

Why we love it:

  • Superior pigment and longevity

  • Perfect for high-impact eye looks

  • Smudge-proof once set

 

 

10. L’Oréal Paris Le Liner Signature Mechanical Pencil

Best Retractable Pencil

Say goodbye to sharpening—L’Oréal’s mechanical liner is precise, portable, and incredibly smooth. It’s great for tightlining and subtle definition.

Why we love it:

  • Retractable design

  • Creamy texture with strong color

  • Perfect for travel or touch-ups

 

 

11. Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Eye Pencil

Best for Professional Wear

Bobbi Brown’s Long-Wear Eye Pencil stays put through long workdays and late nights. The silky texture glides on easily without pulling or skipping.

Why we love it:

  • Waterproof and humidity-proof

  • Dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested

  • Perfect for sensitive eyes

 

 

12. Rimmel ScandalEyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal

Best Budget Kohl Pencil

For a soft, smudgy, and effortless look, the Rimmel ScandalEyes Kohl Kajal delivers unbeatable value. Its creamy texture blends like a dream and lasts for hours.

Why we love it:

  • Smooth, buttery formula

  • Water-resistant finish

  • Great for smoky or natural looks

 

 

How to Apply Eyeliner Like a Pro

Even the best eyeliner pencils can look messy without the right technique. Here are a few expert tips for a polished, professional finish:

  1. Warm up the pencil tip on your hand for smoother glide.

  2. Use small, controlled strokes instead of one long line.

  3. Tightline (apply on the upper waterline) for fuller-looking lashes.

  4. For a smoky effect, smudge immediately after applying—before it sets.

  5. Seal the look with a light dusting of eyeshadow or setting powder.

 

 

Eyeliner Pencil Trends for 2025

This year, eyeliner trends are all about expression and creativity. Here’s what’s taking over beauty feeds:

  • Colored liners (think emerald, navy, and copper)

  • Graphic lines and floating liner looks

  • Soft, blurred edges replacing sharp cat-eyes

  • Hybrid products (eyeliner + shadow sticks)

If you love experimenting, grab a few shades from our list and mix it up!

 

 

Final Thoughts: Elevate Your Eye Game

Whether you prefer a classic black liner or want to play with colorful, modern hues, these 12 best eyeliner pencils of 2025 combine innovation, performance, and comfort. With smooth application, intense payoff, and long wear makeup formulas, these are your secret weapons for effortless glam—anytime, anywhere.

 

 

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Ready to redefine your eye look? Shop our curated beauty collection and find your perfect eyeliner pencil—because bold, beautiful eyes never go out of style. ✨

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