Copic markers are not cheap and that is the main reason why people are looking for dupes and alternatives to this luxurious marker brand. If you are one of those budget-conscious people who wants a cheaper alternative, you are in the right place. We are here to give you the best alternative to Copic markers that perform just as well but won’t break your bank.
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Table of Contents
What Are Copic Alternatives or Dupes?
10 Best Alternative to Copic Markers
- Prismacolor 3620 Premier Double-Ended Art Markers
- Ohuhu Double-Tipped Sketch Markers
- Winsor & Newton Promarkers
- Art-N-Fly Brush Markers
- Shuttle Art Alcohol Art Markers
- Caliart Dual-Tip Alcohol Art Markers
- Bianyo Classic Series Alcohol-Based Dual Tip Art Markers
- Keebor Alcohol Art Markers
- Arteza Everblend Art Markers
- Kuretake ZIG KC-3000N Twin WS Markers
How to Choose the Best Copic Alternatives
What Are Copic Alternatives or Dupes?
Copic dupes or alternatives refer to any other brand of markers that performs just as well as Copic Markers. Notable elements for Copic dupes are the following:
- High-quality alcohol-based ink
- Dual tips: fine and chisel nibs
- Chunky yet ergonomic body
Copic alternatives are often preferred because of the high price point of authentic Copic Markers.
Why Do You Need Alternatives?
You may be interested in getting Copic alternatives because you are still experimenting with colored markers and are not ready or willing to invest a big chunk of money for the original Copics.
There are a couple of great alternatives to Copic markers that perform just as well but at a cheaper and much more affordable price point.
10 Best Alternative to Copic Markers
Prismacolor 3620 Premier Double-Ended Art Markers
These Prismacolor dual-tipped markers are one of the best alternatives to Copic markers. Its quality and consistency are the closest dupes you can get with a friendlier price tag that most people can afford.
These markers have two tips: one end is fine and the other is a chisel tip, just like the Copic Markers. These are great versatile tips that will allow you to make all kinds of coloring and drawing styles. Blending and shading is no problem at all, and you can use the fine tip for detailing.
Prismacolor Markers have vivid and bright pigments so when it comes to color quality, it’s not so different from Copic Markers. The only difference with its alcohol-based ink is the Prismacolor markers are on the runnier side, although ink flow is smooth and controlled. The ink is also fast-drying and permanent.
The color selection is also divine. The basic set of 12 markers provides you with the colors you need and they are already great for both beginners and professional artists.
As usual, be cautious when using thin paper because this marker will tend to bleed through.
Another downside to these markers is that their caps can be unusually tight and are a little difficult to remove.
What We Like:
- Ink is smooth and high-quality
- Flexible nibs for excellent blending ability
- Vivid colors
- Quick-drying
- Caps are sealed tightly
What We Dislike:
- Markers are disposable and non-refillable unlike the Copic Markers
- Will bleed through thin paper
Ohuhu Double-Tipped Sketch Markers
A cheaper Copic Markers alternative is this Ohuhu Double-Tipped Sketch Markers. It comes in an affordable price tag, it has an extensive color selection, and its quality is up to par with Copic.
These markers have great gradient colors that make it easy for you to achieve seamless blending and adding depth to your creations. They also have great flesh tones that are realistic compared to others.
One thing we like about this brand is that the markers come with a case that’s easy to carry around. The case compact makes it easy to organize and store them.
These Ohuhu Markers have dual tips that have good quality nibs. They are flexible and glide smoothly on paper.
The color vibrancy of the markers is excellent as well. The quality and consistency of the ink are very close to Copic Markers. They are bright and are easy to blend. Even though the ink is on the watery side and can bleed through thin paper, it dries up easily and does not smear.
What We Like:
- Affordable price tag
- A breeze to blend and layer
- The colors are bright and vivid
- Long-lasting
- Tips are flexible and provide good coverage
What We Dislike:
- Ink is very watery compared to Copic markers
Winsor & Newton Promarkers
Winston & Newton is one of the leading brands for art supplies and their Promarker set is one of the best alternatives to Copic Markers.
The first feature of this marker set is its double-tip. One end is a chisel tip great for area coloring and the other is a fine tip for precise detailing and reaching for tight and narrow corners.
The ink is alcohol-based that’s quick-drying and permanent. It is versatile and can be used on plastic, wood, tile, and many more. The pigments are bright and rich that provide excellent coverage that’s streak-free – similar to that of Copic Markers.
To create depth, the markers are easy to layer to get darker colors. This brand has a wide variety of colors, you can get a set of 25 up to 96 colors.
The best part is this brand has a cheaper price tag than Copic Markers making is a really great alternative because you get the same high-quality colors at a fraction of a price!
What We Like:
- Ink flows smoother than Copic
- Wide variety of colors
- Reasonably priced
- Quick-drying and permanent
What We Dislike:
- Not refillable
- The fine nib is hard and does not blend
Art-N-Fly Brush Markers
What makes these markers unique is their hexagonal-shaped barrels that are ergonomic and balance perfectly on the hands. This marker also has a double tip, just like the Copic markers, but one tip is a brush nib instead of a fine nib. If you are looking for a Copic Marker alternative that has a brush tip, this is it!
What’s even better is that the Art-N-Fly Brush Markers come with replaceable nibs and refillable ink! So it’s not just reasonably priced, it will also last even longer.
The nibs are durable and won’t show signs of wear and tear even after frequent usage. The ink is alcohol-based, has a consistent flow, and is great for layering without forming harsh lines and streaks.
The flesh tones that this marker set offers are great for drawing people. although there are some colors that are similar. Also, there’s a faint ink smell but it’s not really a deal-breaker.
What We Like:
- Great quality nibs
- Refillable ink and replaceable nibs
- Nice flesh tones
- Unique barrel design
- Genuine Japanese brush tips
What We Dislike:
- Duplicate/repeating colors
- Noticeable ink odor
Shuttle Art Alcohol Art Markers
Another cheap alternative to Copic Markers is this 51-color marker set from Shuttle Art.
The ink quality of this set is superb. It glides smoothly and layers beautifully. The ink doesn’t get absorbed by the paper quickly so you have time to blend and smudge the ink to get the effect that you want.
The markers have dual tips with a broader tip on one end and a pointed tip on the other.
The color selection may not be as extensive as the other sets, but it’s more than enough for beginners. The color payoff is also vibrant so it will bring life into your artwork.
The downside of this set though is the markers tend to bleed on thin paper so artists must be cautious of that.
What We Like:
- Layers really well
- A nice color selection that’s great for beginners
- Ink is non-toxic and of great quality
- Price is affordable
What We Dislike:
- Can get streaky sometimes
- Bleeds on thin paper
Caliart Dual-Tip Alcohol Art Markers
One of the cheapest and best alternatives to Copic Markers is this one from Caliart. For an affordable price, you get an amazing assortment of colors and a durable carrying case as well. And when it comes to pigment and ink quality, it does not disappoint!
The color options are great and with these markers being alcohol-based, you can use them for drawing, illustrations, and calligraphy on surfaces such as paper, stone, and ceramic.
These markers are also dual-tipped: a fine tip on one end and a broad chisel tip on the other. The barrel is round and the caps are color-coded so it’s easy to find the color you need.
The ink is rich, bright, and pigmented. and it glides easily on your canvas and paper.
This is a really impressive set as you get premium quality at a very affordable price. Beginners will love this one!
What We Like:
- Affordable price
- Beginner-friendly
- Vivid and pigmented colors
- Smudge-proof and waterproof
- Easy to blend
- Has a premium quality
What We Dislike:
- Lacks a few lighter shades
Bianyo Classic Series Alcohol-Based Dual Tip Art Markers
Another great alternative for Copic Markers that fits the needs of beginners is this classic alcohol-based marker set from Bianyo. It’s inexpensive and accessible for people who are on a budget.
This set of 72 colors will provide every beginner all the colors that they need. The ink is vibrant and rich when laid out on paper, and is easy to blend.
The markers also come in double tips: chisel and bullet. Both nibs are a breeze to use because they are flexible. The chisel tip is broad and can cover large areas, while the fine bullet tip is great for defining and detailing.
The downside of these markers is they are not bleed-proof. As it’s alcohol-based, the ink bleeds through thin paper.
What We Like:
- Flexible nibs
- Budget-friendly
- Good ink quality
- Easy to blend
- Non-toxic and minimal odor
What We Dislike:
- Bleeds through thin paper
Keebor Alcohol Art Markers
Another alternative is is Keebor Art Marker set. With 80+ colors, these dual-tipped artist-quality markers perform excellently in outlining and shading your drawings.
Aside from its price, the wide color selection you get from this brand is what makes it such a steal.
The markers have a minimal barrel design, yet are attractive enough and very functional. And the quality of these markers is very stable, with flexible nibs that glides on paper as smooth as butter.
Another thing to love about this set is it comes with a free blender marker which is perfect for mixing and blending colors seamlessly.
These markers have made it to our list of the best alternatives to Copic markers because their color payoff is vibrant, their application is smooth, their quality is up to par with Copic markers, and most of all, their price point is not as high as Copic. The wonderful color selection is also just as great.
What We Like:
- Dual-tips are flexible and durable
- Has free blender marker
- Easy to use
- Affordable price
What We Dislike:
- Ink volume is less than expected
- Dries off when the cap is not placed immediately after use
Arteza Everblend Art Markers
With its gorgeous organizer case, this marker set from Arteza is a great alternative to Copic Markers. Not only is its portable packaging is highly functional, but the quality of the markers really delivers.
The Arteza markers are vibrant and pigmented which gives a great color payoff. These markers are alcohol-based, are easy to blend, and are not streaky. The blending property of this set is comparable to Copic markers.
The colors are vivid and rich. Every swipe is divine. This marker also has dual-tips: chisel and fine nibs. Both nibs are of good quality and can be replaced.
The barrel is triangular shaped which is very ergonomic and very comfortable to grip in the hands. These markers are great for both kids and adults.
What We Like:
- Beginner-friendly
- Rich and vivid colors
- Affordable option
- Great blending ability
What We Dislike:
- The selection of lighter colors is not as extensive
Kuretake ZIG KC-3000N Twin WS Markers
These Zig markers from Kuratake are another one of the best alternatives to Copic Markers that’s affordable and has good quality. Unlike other brands, this one has refillable ink that will make your marker last longer and save you money in the long run.
With two tips, chisel and fine, this marker is capable of delivering broad and fine strokes. The chisel nib can cover a large area while the fine nib is great for detailed lines.
The colors are well-pigmented and are very blendable. The set comes with a blender that will seamlessly blend and mix colors for you.
The ink is alcohol-based and is quick-drying. The odor of the ink is not a bother, too. To get the best color, keep your markers in a horizontal position.
What We Like:
- Wonderful and pigmented colors
- Affordable price
- Has a colorless blender included
- Blend really well
- Refillable ink and spare tips are available
What We Dislike:
- Bleeds through thin paper
How to Choose the Best Copic Alternatives
You need to get familiar with the different factors in considering what set of markers to buy.
Ink Quality
Copic markers have outstanding ink quality, it’s not too thick nor too thin. It doesn’t get streaky, it’s easy to blend, and once dried up on paper, they are rich and vivid. This is an important factor to look into when choosing an alternative.
Look for the same properties. Check for great ink consistency, blend-ability, and if the ink dries up easily so it doesn’t bleed too much and get streaky.
Color Vividness
In terms of color pigmentation, Copic markers are rich and vivid. Keep this factor in mind when shopping for a dupe.
There are a lot of brands that have the same richness and vividness as Copic markers. Check if this vividness will still be present after the ink has dried on paper.
Shape and Size of Nibs
Dual-tips are mostly preferred because they can serve several purposes. There are two types of dual-tipped markers: a chisel and fine tip combo and a brush and fine tip combo. Know which type of nib shape you prefer.
Tip Flexibility and Durability
Aside from the shape and size of the nibs, you also have to check for their flexibility and durability. The properties of the nib are what determines how smoothly the ink goes onto the paper. If the nibs are too firm, the ink might not distribute properly and not blend smoothly.
A good marker has flexible and soft nibs.
Color Selection
A wide color selection is also a factor you need to consider. Some artists prefer to have a large variety of colors to really define and beautify their artwork. Some sets may have many colors but if the colors are too similar to each other, they might not be of good value. Look for the gradation of colors so you can determine if it’s a great dupe or not.
Refillable Ink
The great thing about Copic markers is that they have refillable ink which makes it very convenient if you run out of a specific color. You don’t need to purchase the whole set again just to get that color, all you have to do is refill your used one. And this is one feature that sets apart Copic markers from others because cheaper marker sets don’t come with refills. But because other alternatives are cheaper, purchasing them without refills can still be worthwhile. There are still other dupes that come with refills so watch out for that.
Leak-proof
Nobody likes a marker that bleeds and leaks everywhere. It’s inconvenient and impossible to clean up especially when it’s permanent.
Look for markers that have a good seal cap that clicks shut so you can be sure that the ink does not leak through.
Alcohol or Water-based?
Personally, alcohol-based markers are better. They dry fast and are permanent. They are safe and non-toxic, and the vividness of the color stays for a long time. Water-based markers, however, can fade away over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Most Trusted Copic Alternative Brands?
When it comes to trustworthy brands, PrismaColor, Ohuhu, and Winsor & Newton are the top ones on my head. These brands have top-notch quality and have a lower price point making them the best alternative to Copic Markers.
Are Copic Markers Worth It?
Copic markers are worth it because of their excellent ink quality and blend-ability. They are such a delight to use and what makes it even better is they come with refillable ink so the barrels can last for years.
Can You Mix Copic Markers With Other Brands?
Yes. You can always experiment and there’s no harm in trying something new. I recommend mixing Copic with other markers that are equally easy to blend so that you have a beautiful and seamless result.
Where to Buy Copic dupes?
Markers are available on your local art supply stores and online shops like Amazon. You can click on the links we provided above to take you directly to the product links. Just keep in mind that these links are affiliate links and we can earn a small commission if you purchase through them at no additional cost to you.
Final Thoughts
Looking for the best alternative to Copic Markers is easy and we’ve laid out 10 of the best dupes for you. Buying one should be easy enough when you know what you are looking for.
Different brands have different attributes and you can always opt for the marker set with the highest number of positive reviews.
Pick one that you prefer and that’s within your budget. Happy shopping! And happy creating!
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