15 Best Copic Marker Alternatives In 2023 For You To Consider
When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. For more information on how we conduct reviews, click here.
Copic markers are expensive, but they work great. Some people don't want to spend the money on them, so they look for alternatives. There are many cheaper options out there that claim to be just as good if not better than Copics. These alternative markers have their own sets of pros and cons that you will need to consider before deciding which one is right for you.
Our Top Picks
  |
Most Budget-Friendly Set: Anngrowy Alcohol Markers• Blends without blotches and smudges |
|
Best Complete Set: Shuttle Art Store Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers• 171 colored markers + blender marker |
|
Runner-Up: Art-n-Fly Professional Brush Markers• Refillable |
1. Anngrowy Alcohol Markers - Most Budget-Friendly Set
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
What Customers Have to Say
These affordable alcohol inks impressed many users. Even younger kids love using these markers because they're safe to use. Some users were hesitant to try them at first, but many became repeat buyers.
Why We Think It's Great
Anngrowy Alcohol Markers complies with EN71, ROHS, and ASTM D-4236 standards, so they're safe for artists and crafters of all levels to use. The markers blend without blotching or smudging.
The set has 80 markers and a colorless blender for even more possibilities. The blender marker is best for priming your paper or blending and overlapping your colors.
If you're not happy with your purchase for any reason, they offer a 60-day full refund window. The set also comes with a 1-year free warranty.
Who Should Buy It
If you're looking for an affordable and safe set of markers, the Anngrowy Alcohol Markers are a great option. They don't smudge as much as other brands, and they come in a wide range of colors.
2. Art-n-Fly Professional Brush Markers: Runner-Up
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
What Customers Have to Say
These markers are as good as the more expensive brands at almost a quarter of the price. One customer even said they're "almost indistinguishable" against the more expensive brand.
Why We Think It's Great
The Art-n-Fly markers are a great alternative for an affordable set with replaceable nibs and refillable ink. The hexagonal barrel gives a better grip. The dual-tip options are also great since you can add fine or thick lines, depending on your need.
The downside of these markers is that the caps' colors are misleading and tend to bleed quite a bit.
Who Should Buy It
Those looking for a very affordable alternative to Copic markers would love this. They're refillable and have replaceable nibs like the more expensive alcohol markers.
3. Faber-Castell DuoTip Washable Markers
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
What Customers Have to Say
Parents of kids as young as 2 years old love using these markers. They're easy to hold and control, and the colors are vibrant. However, they can be a bit messy if you're not careful since they don't wash off easily on the skin. The colors are vibrant, though, and the odor is almost unnoticeable.
Why We Think It's Great
The Faber-Castell DuoTip Washable Markers are the perfect choice for kids and adults alike. The water-based markers are easy to clean up because they're washable.
They're also non-toxic, acid-free, and bear the ASTM D-4236 certification for your safety and protection. The food-grade vegetable dye used in these markers makes it perfect for younger kids.
You can rehydrate the pens with water to restore their original thickness and vibrancy. The set has 24 pens, but you get two colors on each pen, so you get a total of 48 colors from this set. You can also change the stroke width to fine and wide, depending on how you hold the pens.
Who Should Buy It
The Faber-Castell DuoTip Washable Markers is best for art teachers and parents with younger kids. The markers are also perfect for anyone who wants an easy-to-clean marker with incredible vibrant colors.
4. Artsy Magic Dual-Tip Permanent Art Markers
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
What Customers Have to Say
The price is very affordable, and many buyers thought the markers were a great buy for their kids and grandkids. They also look great on cards. Users recommend not to leave the marker on paper for too long to prevent blotches.
Why We Think It's Great
Artsy Magic Dual-Tip Permanent Art Markers are vibrant markers in 80 colors in dual-tipped markers - a fine point for detail work and a broad tip for larger areas. The markers are also waterproof and non-toxic, making them perfect for artists of all ages.
Their colors layer beautifully without blotches and streaks. Aside from paper, you can use it on ceramic, plastic, wood, and other porous and non-porous surfaces. The set is a must-have for your glass painting kits.
The set also comes with a zippered canvas bag and a printable PDF file you can download with each purchase. The company also offers a full refund or free replacement if you're not satisfied with your purchase.
Who Should Buy It
Artsy Magic Dual-Tip Permanent Art Markers is a good choice for artists working on mixed media and various surfaces. You can use this set for glass paintings.
5. Memoffice Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
What Customers Have to Say
This marker set is an excellent tool for crafters, designers, and card-makers. The bag is not as sturdy as other canvas bags, so it's best to buy a separate organizer for your markers.
Why We Think It's Great
Memoffice Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers does not only work for coloring but also for highlighting notes for work and school. The ink does not smear, makes a rough mark quickly in less time, and marks cleanly when it dries, leaving no residues.
The markers use eco-friendly materials, so you don't have to worry about residues. The canvas carrying bag and the square barrel of the markers help to organize better.
You can also use the markers for various design projects, such as sketching, crafting, poster-making, and lettering. The dual tips let you work on both small and wide spaces.
Who Should Buy It
Memoffice Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers is an excellent set for art students engaged in interior design, fashion design, and product design. The markers also work well for card-making and other art projects.
6. Bianyo Classic Series Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
What Customers Have to Say
Some buyers got these markers after a YouTube video tutorial recommended this set. It is best for someone new to alcohol markers to work quickly as the ink dries quickly and bleeds a lot. It helps to have cardboard under your paper to absorb the excess ink.
Why We Think It's Great
Bianyo Classic Series Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers builds and blends well. You can use it to color your designs and projects or highlight your study and work notes. One marker goes a long way, depending on the nib you use.
The set comes with a reinforced and zippered canvas bag for organizing your markers. With 72 colors in the set, you get to choose the right shades and tints for your projects. The color-coded caps also help you recognize the markers you want to use.
It also comes with a 1-year warranty, so you get a free refund without incurring additional shipping charges.
Who Should Buy It
This set is best for someone looking for affordable alcohol markers for their arts. It also works great as an all-occasion gift for your artist friends and kids.
7. Shuttle Art Store Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers: Best Complete Set
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
What Customers Have to Say
The Shuttle Art Store Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers has a great selection of colors. Even if some colors have more than one marker, it still has more colors than other marker sets. They're also inky and remain wet for a long time.
Why We Think It's Great
The Shuttle Art Store Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers has 171 vibrant colors and a blender marker. The easy-to-blend inks make it easy to create any look you want, while the dual tips provide precision and flexibility. One end has a 7mm broad tip and the other end has a 1mm fine tip.
The set comes with a canvas bag for easier organizing and 50-sheet marker pad for practice projects. They're non-toxic, acid-free, and conform to ASTM D-4236 standards for your peace of mind while working.
Alcohol inks evaporate quickly, so recap the marker and lay it on its side. The square barrel helps easier stacking and prevents the markers from rolling off your work desk. Customer service is also great, and they're very responsive to your issues.
Who Should Buy It
This set is best for artists looking for a cheap option for alcohol markers. Even if there are more than two markers for each color, it simply means you have more markers for this color.
8. Caliart Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
What Customers Have to Say
These markers work as well as Copic markers, only more affordable. They don't have strong odors and the ergonomic design of the marker barrel makes it easy and comfortable to hold. The ink is a bit watery but dries up pretty quickly.
Why We Think It's Great
The Caliart Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers are non-smudging and fast-drying markers that lets you create beautiful works of art without any mess.
The 40-marker set has a carrying case for easier organizing and traveling. The colors are vivid and can take any artistic design or sketch to the next level. You get a broad chisel-type and fine point tip marker, providing versatility.
Additionally, the markers are compatible with various surfaces such as paper, canvas boards and even walls. However, we recommend testing your surface first before committing to a permanent mark.
Who Should Buy It
We think the Caliart Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers are great for anyone who wants to improve their artwork. If you're looking for an affordable set of markers that don't smudge, then we highly recommend this set.
9. Tombow Dual Brush Pen Markers
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
What Customers Have to Say
Customers love these Tombow markers for their journaling projects. Tombow does not bleed that much, even if you're working on thin paper.
Why We Think It's Great
The Tombow Dual Brush Pen Markers are perfect for any artist, beginner or experienced. The durable and flexible nylon fiber tips allow you to create a variety of strokes and effects with ease. However, don't use it on paper that's too textured as the brush frays easily with the textured surface.
The blendable inks offer endless possibilities and give a lovely watercolor effect. They are easy to maintain because the self-cleaning feature prevents your markers from drying out.
The set includes 9 colored markers and a blender pen in bright colors.
Who Should Buy It
We think the Tombow Dual Brush Pen Markers are a great option if you want to learn more about brush pens. They're also great for those looking for a watercolor effect on their work.
10. Prismacolor Premier Double-Ended Art Markers
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
What Customers Have to Say
These Prismacolor markers are top of the line, even considering their very affordable price. The colors smudge easily, though, so you'll want to be careful.
Why We Think It's Great
The Prismacolor Premier Double-Ended Art Markers offer an impressive amount of features for the price. The markers have a fine tip and a chisel tip for easier coverage.
The markers use dye-based inks from a single ink source for consistent results and intense colors. The colors are easy to blend and have excellent saturation.
The set has 12 colors with a black barrel. It is easier to distinguish the fine and chisel tip with the fine and broad line on each end.
Who Should Buy It
This set is perfect for artists looking for an affordable option without sacrificing quality. The manufacturer recommends this set for manga artists because of the high blendability of the inks.
11. Keebor Premium Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
What Customers Have to Say
According to many users, this set is great for anyone looking for an excellent set of alcohol markers. Even newbies find this set easy to use. They're also very cheap, but the colors are very vibrant.
Why We Think It's Great
These markers are perfect for anyone who loves to color and wants high-quality results. The vibrant inks are waterproof so they won't run or smudge. They also work on almost any porous surfaces, including wood and terracotta.
The barrel's ergonomic design makes them comfortable to use for extended periods of time. It smells, though, so if you're okay with that, this set is an excellent choice.
The set has 80 dual-tipped markers and a blended marker with a strong, zippered canvas bag. If you're not satisfied with your purchase for any reason, the company will refund your money in full without question.
Who Should Buy It
If you're looking for a high-quality alternative to Copic markers with an excellent color range, this is a perfect choice. You can also use the dual-tips to make different widths of line for your specific needs.
12. Shuttle Art Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
What Customers Have to Say
Hobbyists and artists of all ages love using these markers because they blend very well. It's a great value for your money, and you can use these markers for multiple creative projects.
Why We Think It's Great
Shuttle Art Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers is great for blending colors and creating unique designs. The triangular barrel design is comfortable and easy to hold for long periods.
The markers are non-toxic, acid-free, and conform to ASTM D-4236 standards. Blending is a breeze with these markers. The dual-tips are great for creating gradients and fine details.
The waterproof inks are vibrant, so they won't run or smudge. The set includes 50 colored markers and a blender marker in a zippered canvas bag.
Who Should Buy It
This set is best for artists looking for high-quality Copic marker alternatives. It's also great for individuals who want to try out different kinds of ink, including alcohol-based inks and watercolor paints.
13. Ohuhu Double-Tipped Alcohol Markers
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
What Customers Have to Say
The markers are great, and the colors are very vibrant. They're also very affordable. However, the inks dry quickly. Many users also complained about the marker tips breaking easily.
Why We Think It's Great
Ohuhu Double-Tipped Alcohol Markers are excellent markers for both professional and newbie artists. They're comparable with more expensive alcohol markers.
Though these markers bleed heavily, they are still good at creating layers. They dry rather quickly, so you have to work fast when using these markers.
The set has 120 colored markers and a blender marker in a heavy-duty canvas bag with a sling for easier carrying.
Who Should Buy It
This alcohol marker set is best for artists looking for an affordable option without compromising quality.
14. Vigor Fun Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
What Customers Have to Say
Customers love having so many colors on this set, and it's perfect for newbie artists. The customer service is excellent and responds promptly to customer queries and concerns.
Why We Think It's Great
The Vigor Fun Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers has a triangular barrel design and dual-tip marker for various line widths to create any look you desire for beautiful layers and blending.
The high-quality control standards ensure that each marker is precision-crafted for lasting performance. Many designers and artists love using these markers because of their vibrant colors and quality inks.
There are 88 alcohol-based markers in the set, each with a broad 7mm tip and a fine 1mm tip. When using these markers, always recap them and lay the markers on their side.
Who Should Buy It
These markers are best for beginners who want an easy starting point to the marker world. They're also perfect for emerging artists and professionals looking for great colors but don’t want to spend much on art supplies.
15. Artify Alcohol Brush Markers
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
What Customers Have to Say
These alcohol markers are beginner-friendly and greatly value the customers' money. The colors are vibrant and easily blendable.
Why We Think It's Great
With Artify Alcohol Brush Markers, you'll get perfect results with every brush stroke. These dual-tipped markers have a fine tip for detail work and a broad tip for larger areas. The high-quality inks blend and layer well to create stunning effects.
The convenient plastic carrying bag is better than zippered canvas bags that can't take on the combined weight of the markers.
The ergonomic barrel design ensures hours of comfortable use.
Who Should Buy It
Artify Alcohol Brush Markers are best for professional artists, but they're also great starter markers. The dual tips make them versatile enough to use with different techniques and art styles.
Copic Marker Alternative Buying Guide
-
Ink quality
Copic markers are a step above the rest when it comes to ink quality. They have an impressive balance of thickness and smoothness.
When looking for affordable Copic alternatives, check out their ink consistency and blendability. The colors should have the same vivid and rich colors.
-
Nib quality
A good marker requires a flexible nib. The chisel tip should be strong enough to avoid fraying even when used extensively over time.
-
Refillable ink
Copic markers might be more expensive, but you can save money buying new markers. Invest in refillable markers. In the long run, you'll end up spending less since one refill may stretch your ink up to 7 times, thus saving you money.
-
Color choices
Alcohol markers carry several tints and shades of color for a gradual gradation. It is important, especially when working with skin tone, where you need colors to change very gradually without noticing the changes.
-
Budget
Budget is another consideration when trying to find a Copic marker alternative. Alcohol markers can be expensive, but a few less expensive brands still offer good quality.
Copic Marker Alternative FAQ
Why are Copic markers so expensive?
Copic markers are expensive because of the following reasons:
- Professional-grade
- Refillable
- Replaceable nibs in 9 different style
- Hand-tested for color consistency
- Odorless & chemical-free inks
- No visible streaks
- Blends easily with other colors
- Wide range of colors
- Sold in individual pens
- Innovative barrel design
Given the aforementioned features, we believe that Copic markers have a justifiable price tag. Think of them as a long-term investment, especially if you're a professional artist.
1. Are alcohol markers and Copic markers the same?
Copic markers are still alcohol markers. However, Copic markers use ethyl alcohol which is safer than other alcohols used in alcohol markers. On the whole, though, cheaper alcohol markers work as well as more expensive Copic markers.
2. Do alcohol-based markers bleed through paper?
Alcohol markers bleed through paper, so it's best to use them on non-porous surfaces. You can also minimize bleeding by using paper designed for Copic markers. The smoother surface also prevents damage to the brush nibs. You may also try oil pastel paper if you can’t find good alcohol marker paper.
3. What is better: alcohol or water-based markers?
Depending on the brand, alcohol markers may use ethyl, methyl, or propanol, and a dye for the colors. Alcohol is the best solvent because it distributes the dyes due to its molecular structure. Alcohol markers blend well, so professional artists prefer it.
Alcohol-based markers, however, are not cheap so they’re not best for newbie artists. Alcohol may have serious effects on your health, so it’s best to skip it for younger kids.
Water-based markers use water-based inks and dye. They’re more affordable, more child-friendly, and bleed less than alcohol-based markers.
However, they tend to leave some undissolved particles on the paper, leaving noticeable lines, so they’re not best for layering. Water-based markers do not work well with paper, causing the paper to warp.
Alcohol and water-based markers work for different purposes.
4. Are alcohol markers bad for you?
Alcohol-based markers may contain toxic compounds. However, they're a bit tamer than solvent-based markers which contain xylene. Xylene causes kidney, reproductive, and respiratory impairment.
If you want to use alcohol-based markers, find ACMI and AP marks and low odors. If you want to check if your art supply is safe to use, check this resource from the California Office of Environmental Health and Hazard Assessment (OEHHA).
Conclusion
We love working with Copic markers. However, some artists find them very expensive for beginners.
For this review, we choose Anngrowy Alcohol Markers as the most budget-friendly set. The markers blend well without blotches and smudges. They also come with EN71, ROHS, and ASTM D-4236 certifications to assure users of their safety. A 1-year warranty covers this set, so you can demand a refund when the quality isn't at par with your expectations.
The Shuttle Art Store Dual-Tip Alcohol Markers is the best complete set with 171 colored markers and a blender marker. Each marker is non-toxic, acid-free, and conforms to ASTM D-4236 standards.
Our best bet is the Art-n-Fly Professional Brush Markers for the best refillable set. These Copic markers alternatives are refillable with replaceable nibs. The hexagonal barrels are comfortable to hold for long periods.
