Staedtler Ergosoft Colored Pencils
12-36 count pack
Wax core
Triangular barrel
Mid-priced
Pros:
Saturated Color
Extremely Comfortable to Use
Very Durable
Cons:
Poor Blending
Lack of Color Options
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Staedtler Ergosoft Colored Pencils Review
Updated by Brandon F. on July 13, 2020
The Staedtler Ergosoft Colored Pencils are quite unique in that they are triangular-shaped and furthermore they come with an A.B.S. protective coating that reinforces the wax-based core. Essentially they can go through a lot of wear and tear and still hold up. Overall, they lay down color quite well and show pretty good pigmentation.
They are still a bit lacking on color options, however, and are significantly more expensive than most other Staedtler offerings. These are available in sets ranging from 12 to 36 pieces.
Visual Appeal – 3.5/5
The colors are very saturated and they flow quite smoothly over the paper. The application is good and relatively deep colors can be put on the paper with minimal effort. These are not water-soluble so blending will have to be through other methods but this is not a big deal as the blending is challenging but rewarding and worth the added effort. The color that is produced is quite vivid and really stands out. You may want to try using these in combination with a more muted colored pencil set for a really nice effect.
The big complaint with this set is the lack of color options. With a maximum of 36 pencils, you are rather limited in your color range. In addition, the colors that are available are a bit on the bright side. This is great if you are after a powerful and bright art piece but for those going for something more photo-realistic, you may be out of luck.
Thankfully, once you get past the initial learning curve, the available colors blend well enough so that an understanding of color balance will allow an experienced artist to achieve most other desired colors and shades. You just might have to add a bit of white or black to mute the intensity.
Usability and Durability – 5/5
This is where Staedtler Ergosoft Colored Pencils really shine. With the break-resistant 3mm lead, ergosoft ultra-soft non-slip grip, and reinforced protective coating, these are meant to last for a long time and feel comfortable while doing it.
The comfortable grip makes blending and other potentially laborious work fluid and worry-free and the unique shape helps to maintain user control. This combination of tough features means that these are good for classroom settings where they might go through a lot of abuse.
When you combine these nice features with the simple fact that the core is very easy (and fun!) to use, you really have a home run when it comes to usability. We highly encourage everybody to try these pencils out simply because of the enjoyment they will give you.
Packaging and Presentation – 4/5
As already mentioned, the pencils themselves come in a triangular shape and have an ergosoft grip to them, which really makes them stand out. They are coated in their respected color and labeled with a white stamp that displays the brand name. They come in a patented Staedtler stand-up box that, while not as aesthetically pleasing as, say, a wooden box, does a good job of protecting the pencil and is also quite handy for moving around the various offerings.
We do wish that they would also include the color name or at least a color code for easy identification. But at least the barrel is color-matched to the core.
Cost – 4/5
Despite these pencils technically not being part of Staedtler’s “premium” line, the price still creeps up there. Expect to pay in the mid-range, which is significantly higher than what you’ll pay for their cheaper, standard line. However, these pencils are meant to last and even beyond that, they produce much better color so the increase in cost is understandable. And we assume that the inclusion of the unique grip is a bit part of what commands the higher asking price.
Overall Ranking – 4/5
The Staedtler Ergosoft Colored Pencils are a nice in-between segment for this company, and their price point and color represent that. Where these really excel is in their comfort and long-lasting durability. The bright colors also really stand out and can be used to produce some powerful effects in the right hands. They are a good enough line for a passionate hobbyist or someone starting out in the hobby. Either way, whoever uses them will know that they have a product that is going to last through many cycles of use, no matter how demanding they may be.
