Although the core of the pencil is known as "lead," it’s actually made of a mixture of graphite and clay. There are different grades of lead depending on the ratio between graphite and clay. The more graphite a lead has, the softer and darker it will be, while more clay means harder and lighter lead.

Different regions use different lead grading systems. For this article, we'll be following the European system, which uses "H" for hardness and "B" for blackness. Our chart below shows the range of lead grades from 10B to 10H. HB and F are in the middle of the spectrum, with F being slightly lighter. HB usually lines up with American #2. For more detailed information on lead grades, please see our article here.

“Feedback” is the resistance you feel as you write. If a pencil lead grips onto the paper or feels scratchy, it has high feedback. If a pencil glides smoothly over paper, it has low feedback. Generally, you want to find a happy medium—writing with a pencil should feel smooth but have enough grip for control. H grades tend to have higher feedback and may be unpleasant for some to use. B grades are often smoother, but they can make stray marks if they’re too slippery.

If you’re looking for a buttery smooth writing experience, the Blackwing Pencils deliver. They write effortlessly, gliding across the page as quickly as your thoughts come. Four lead grades are available: the Blackwing Matte, which roughly corresponds to 3B; the Blackwing Pearl, roughly 2B; the Blackwing 602, roughly B; and the Blackwing Natural, roughly HB. The eraser will do in a pinch, but we recommend pairing the pencils with one of our eraser recommendations.

The Hi-Uni Pencils come in an amazing 22 lead grades from 10B to 10H. Perfect for artists, these super smooth pencils glide across the page, whether you’re sketching, shading, or putting in final touches. They have minimal smearing and erase cleanly, even in the high B grades. You can even get the whole 22-grade set in a tin box—it makes a great present for yourself or your artist friend!

Students need a pencil that is dark enough for Scantrons and erases easily to fix math mistakes. The Uni Mitsubishi 9850 Pencil hits all the marks. It only comes in one lead grade, HB, but it’s a good one. It is safe for Scantrons and erases without a trace. The balance of smoothness and feedback makes it a pleasure to write with. Plus, the eraser is one of the best mounted erasers we’ve come across, so students don’t have to worry if they forget their eraser.

The Tombow Mono 100 is a cult classic in Japan, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s a sophisticated looking pencil with a glossy black lacquer that won’t look out of place on an office desk. It writes smoothly with just the slightest bite and barely smears. There is a large range of lead grades to choose from—the H grades erase better than the B grades, so we recommend pairing this pencil with a good eraser.

Engineers and designers often use pencils to sketch out their ideas and the Faber-Castell 9000 has just enough lead grades for them to choose from (8B to 6H). The pencil has some feedback, allowing it to be easily controlled. It also erases well, which is great for cleaning up stray marks. The dark green lacquer is stunning and will fit right in on any engineer or designer’s workspace.

True to its name, this unique pencil can help make your writing more beautiful. It’s available in a triangular or hexagonal body, so you can choose whichever is easier to hold. Because the lead is extremely soft (4B or 6B), it requires minimal pressure to write, which is easier on your fingers. Depending on the amount of pressure applied, you can even create brush-like strokes.

As we mentioned earlier, left-handers should pick a pencil that has high smudge resistance. A pencil with low feedback is also important as left-handers have to push their writing instrument across the page. This handsome writing pencil barely smears and writes extremely smoothly. Both of these qualities will help left-handers have a pleasant writing experience.

Most pencils are only 8 mm wide, making them difficult to use for a long time, especially if you have large hands. The Staedtler Triplus Jumbo Pencil has an oversized, triangular body that encourages a proper grip, so your hand will be less fatigued after long writing or drawing sessions. The soft 2B lead writes clearly with minimal pressure, allowing for a relaxed hold.

If you prefer regular-sized pencils, the Faber-Castell Grip 2001 is a good alternative. Its triangular body is lined with grippy dots to reduce slippage.

These charming writing instruments make us nostalgic for old world craftsmanship and days long past. Though some swear by mechanical pencils or lead holders, there's something warm and inviting about holding a wooden pencil in your hands. Let us know what your favorite wooden pencil is in the comments below!