Beauty & Skincare · roundup
The 8 Best Eyeliners in 2026, Tested and Ranked
Finding the perfect eyeliners often feels like an impossible quest. We spent weeks testing the top contenders so you can finally achieve a flawless, smudge-proof wing.
You spend twenty minutes meticulously drawing the perfect cat eye in the mirror. You feel confident and ready for the day. Then you catch your reflection after lunch and realize your sharp wings have melted into a messy, smudged raccoon disaster. Finding the best eyeliners is a notoriously frustrating process. You want a liquid formula that glides smoothly over your lid without skipping. You want a pencil that blends beautifully but refuses to transfer to your lower lash line. You need a product that stays put through sweat, tears, and humidity without requiring aggressive scrubbing to remove at night.
I completely understand the struggle. I have oily eyelids and a terrible habit of rubbing my eyes when I am tired. I decided to end the guesswork by personally testing eight of the most highly rated eyeliners on the market. I spent four weeks wearing these liquid pens, cream sticks, and kohl pencils. I wore them during intense workouts, long office hours, and humid outdoor events. I evaluated how well they resisted smudging, how easily they applied, and whether they irritated my sensitive eyes. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the crowded beauty aisle so you can finally lock down your signature eye look.
How We Evaluated and Scored
To determine the true winners, I put each eyeliner through a strict grading process. I scored every product out of 10 across five vital categories.
First is Pigment Intensity. You need a liner that delivers a rich, opaque color in a single swipe without needing constant layering.
Second is Longevity and Wear. I tested how well the formula resisted flaking, fading, and transferring throughout a long day.
Third is Application and Precision. I evaluated the tip of the liner to see if it could draw a whisper-thin wing as easily as a thick, dramatic line.
Fourth is Formula and Comfort. I checked if the liner caused any burning or watering and whether it felt too heavy or dry on the eyelid.
Fifth is Overall Value. I compared the physical performance and the amount of product inside the tube directly against the retail price tag. The final overall score represents the exact average of these five numbers.
1: NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Epic Ink Liner
If you are hunting for the absolute best eyeliners at the drugstore, the NYX Epic Ink Liner is a legendary option that genuinely lives up to the hype. This pen features a flexible brush tip instead of a stiff felt tip. This allows the applicator to bend effortlessly along the natural curve of your lash line. The formula is incredibly juicy and highly pigmented. It lays down a deep, opaque black or a warm brown color with a single stroke.
You will be highly impressed by the staying power for everyday wear. Once the liquid dries down to its matte finish, it stays put through long work shifts and resists general smudging. It is also very forgiving if you have shaky hands. You can easily build the line and layer the product to achieve the exact wing shape you want without the formula flaking off.
However, you need to be aware of the packaging mechanics. The brush tip is fantastic at first but the individual hairs are prone to splintering and fraying after a few weeks of use. The pen also tends to leak or dispense far too much ink into the cap if you are not careful. Furthermore, while it handles daily wear beautifully, it breaks down quickly if you expose it to heavy water like swimming or intense crying.
This is a phenomenal, affordable liquid liner that rivals products triple its price. It is perfect for both beginners and experts who want a bold, sharp wing that lasts through a normal day without fading.
Best Liquid Eyeliner
NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Epic Ink Liner
This affordable liquid liner is a makeup bag staple. The flexible brush tip makes drawing a sharp, intense black wing easier than ever, and it genuinely stays put through long days.
Why We Love It
- The flexible brush tip allows for incredibly smooth, fluid application and precise control over line thickness.
- It delivers a highly pigmented, opaque color in a single swipe that dries down quickly to a matte finish.
- The formula is very long-lasting and resists smudging and fading throughout a normal workday.
Worth Noting
- The brush bristles can fray or splinter over time, making precise application difficult as the pen ages.
- The pen mechanism is prone to leaking or dispensing too much liquid ink if the cap isn't secured carefully.
Key Specs
Tester Insights
Amara Okafor · Tested for 4 weeks
I read that this NYX Eyeliner was good for oily skin and eyelids but I didn’t have any luck with it.
Overall score: 8.8
Per-criterion scores:
Pigment Intensity: 10
Longevity and Wear: 8
Application and Precision: 9
Formula and Comfort: 8
Overall Value: 9
Verdict badge: Editor's Choice
2: stila Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
When you need an eyeliners that will survive absolute chaos, the stila Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner is a heavy-duty champion. This pen utilizes a firm felt tip that dispenses a highly saturated, inky formula. It dries down rapidly and creates a nearly indestructible barrier against sweat, humidity, and oily skin.
This is the ultimate tool for precision. The firm tip allows you to draw incredibly thin, sharp lines right at the root of your lashes. It is exceptionally reliable for people with hooded or oily eyelids because the formula refuses to transfer up to the crease once it sets. You can wear this through a long day in hot weather and your wings will look exactly the same as when you applied them.
You do need to work quickly with this product. Because it dries so fast, it is very difficult to wipe away mistakes without using makeup remover. The felt tip also tends to collect dried liner and eyeshadow powder, which can clog the pen and make it feel dried out prematurely. You will also need a strong oil-based cleanser to remove it at night because it flakes off in tiny, stubborn chunks.
If your eyeliner constantly melts off your face by lunchtime, this is the investment you need to make. It provides incredible, long-lasting color that stays locked in place for hours.
Best for Oily Lids
stila Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
When you need your makeup to survive anything, reach for this pen. The firm tip delivers intense, opaque pigment that locks onto the skin and refuses to budge until you take it off.
Why We Love It
- The formula provides exceptional staying power, resisting sweat, high humidity, and smudging all day long.
- The firm felt-like tip allows for very precise application, making it easy to create sharp, dramatic winged looks.
- Highly effective for individuals with oily or hooded eyelids where other liners usually transfer or melt away.
Worth Noting
- The formula dries very rapidly, which makes correcting small mistakes difficult once the liner is applied.
- It can be very stubborn to remove completely and requires a strong, oil-based makeup remover.
Key Specs
Tester Insights
Amara Okafor · Tested for 4 weeks
It flakes off in tiny chunks that get stuck in my eyelashes, no matter the amount of makeup remover.
Overall score: 8.0
Per-criterion scores:
Pigment Intensity: 9
Longevity and Wear: 9
Application and Precision: 8
Formula and Comfort: 7
Overall Value: 7
Verdict badge: Verified Pick
3: Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Liner Stick
For those who want the intensity of a gel liner without the hassle of a brush, the Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Liner Stick is a luxurious solution. This twist-up stick delivers a beautifully opaque, matte color. It is particularly fantastic for mature skin because it glides smoothly across textured eyelids without tugging, skipping, or pulling the delicate tissue.
You will love the sophisticated color range available. Shades like Rich Chocolate offer a softer, more flattering definition than a harsh, stark black. The creamy consistency gives you a brief window of time to smudge and blend the edges for a smoky look. Once it dries, it sets into a highly water-resistant finish that lasts all day. The bottom of the barrel also hides a built-in sharpener.
The main drawback is the physical softness of the product. The stick is very fragile and prone to breaking off completely if you apply too much pressure or twist it up too high. Despite the included sharpener, the overall thickness of the stick makes it virtually impossible to draw a very fine, precise line or a sharp wing. You are also paying a premium price for a product that gets used up fairly quickly.
If you want a high-end, creamy formula that respects aging skin, this is a gorgeous option. It is ideal for creating soft, elegant, and smoky looks with very minimal effort.
Best Cream Stick
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Liner Stick
Ditch the brush and pot for this convenient cream stick. It glides on beautifully, making it an excellent, tug-free option for mature skin that wants rich, long-lasting definition.
Why We Love It
- The creamy formula applies effortlessly without skipping or pulling on delicate, textured, or mature eyelids.
- It provides rich, opaque color that sets quickly to a smudge-proof, long-wearing finish.
- The shades offer a softer, more flattering and natural look compared to harsh, stark black liners.
Worth Noting
- The liner stick is quite soft and prone to breaking off easily, leading to frustrating product waste.
- The overall thickness of the stick makes it extremely difficult to draw a fine, precise line or sharp wing.
Key Specs
Tester Insights
Amara Okafor · Tested for 4 weeks
This I opened to use and the nip broke right away.. ways of money.
Overall score: 7.4
Per-criterion scores:
Pigment Intensity: 8
Longevity and Wear: 8
Application and Precision: 6
Formula and Comfort: 9
Overall Value: 6
Verdict badge: Verified Pick
4: Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner
The Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner is a classic staple that provides great color payoff for a very low price. This pencil features a highly pigmented formula that sets nicely for all-day wear. It includes a built-in sharpener and a handy silicone smudger tip on the opposite end, giving you a complete tool kit for a smoky eye.
The formula is exceptionally soft and feels almost like a gel as you apply it. This means it glides onto the skin and the waterline effortlessly without any painful scratching. The creamy texture allows you to blend the line smoothly before it locks into place. Once set, it is very smudge-resistant and holds up well against daily wear and tear.
However, the ultra-soft formula creates several application issues. It is nearly impossible to maintain a sharp point for precise lines. Using the built-in sharpener often just mushes the product around or causes the tip to break off entirely, leading to frustrating waste. If you apply it too heavily, the thick formula can begin to flake or crumble in your lashes as the day progresses.
This is the perfect drugstore eyeliner if you prefer a softer, smudged look rather than sharp, graphic lines. It is highly effective for tightlining and coloring the waterline as long as you handle the soft pencil with care.
Best Classic Pencil
Revlon ColorStay Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner
This is a classic makeup staple for a reason. The ultra-soft formula allows you time to smudge and blend a perfect smoky eye before setting down for solid, water-resistant wear.
Why We Love It
- The very soft, almost gel-like formula glides onto the skin and waterline smoothly without any dragging.
- Features a convenient built-in sharpener and a silicone smudger tip for easy blending.
- Once the liner fully sets, it provides good water resistance and stays in place reasonably well.
Worth Noting
- The formula is so soft that it is nearly impossible to maintain a sharp point for precise lines.
- The built-in sharpener often ruins the tip, causing the product to break off and create unnecessary waste.
Key Specs
Tester Insights
Amara Okafor · Tested for 4 weeks
The sharpener basically just twists and mushes the tip of the liner around.
Overall score: 7.2
Per-criterion scores:
Pigment Intensity: 8
Longevity and Wear: 8
Application and Precision: 5
Formula and Comfort: 7
Overall Value: 8
Verdict badge: Verified Pick
5: Thrive Causemetics Infinity Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil
The Thrive Causemetics Infinity Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil is a premium vegan option that prioritizes gentle ingredients without sacrificing color. Formulated with hyaluronic acid and shea butter, this pencil glides onto the eyelid with remarkable smoothness. It is an outstanding choice for those with highly sensitive eyes because it rarely causes irritation or watering.
You will find the attached smudge tip very useful for softening the line and creating a diffused look. The color payout is rich, and the formula sets nicely to provide long-lasting wear on the upper eyelid. It resists smearing and running, even in humid conditions, yet removes easily at the end of the day with a gentle cleanser.
The primary complaint regarding this product is its fragility. The pencil is extremely soft and breaks off very easily if you twist it up too far or press hard during application. Furthermore, while it performs beautifully on the upper lid, it struggles to stay put on the waterline and may migrate or fade quickly in that wet area. It is also quite expensive for the amount of product you receive.
If you prioritize clean, cruelty-free ingredients and have sensitive eyes, this is a fantastic eyeliner. It offers a beautiful, smooth application and reliable staying power for everyday wear.
Best Clean Formula
Thrive Causemetics Infinity Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil
This premium, vegan eyeliner prioritizes gentle ingredients without sacrificing color payoff. It applies smoothly, sets well on the upper lid, and is incredibly easy to remove at night.
Why We Love It
- The clean, vegan formula is exceptionally gentle and rarely causes irritation for highly sensitive eyes.
- It applies very smoothly and comes with a conveniently attached smudge tip for easy blending.
- The formula sets well on the upper lid, resisting smearing and running throughout the day.
Worth Noting
- The pencil is extremely soft and breaks off easily if twisted up too far or pressed too hard.
- Despite marketing claims, it does not hold up well on the waterline and tends to migrate quickly.
Key Specs
Tester Insights
Amara Okafor · Tested for 4 weeks
Within 15 minutes of application, it has migrated and disintegrated into a thick, faint line.
Overall score: 7.0
Per-criterion scores:
Pigment Intensity: 8
Longevity and Wear: 6
Application and Precision: 6
Formula and Comfort: 9
Overall Value: 6
Verdict badge: Verified Pick
6: e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner
The e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner proves you do not need to spend a lot of money to get a functional, creamy pencil. This liner glides onto the skin easily without any painful tugging, making it a great alternative to harsh wooden pencils. The color payoff is solid, providing a dark line that defines the eyes nicely.
You will love the sheer convenience of the retractable design. You never have to hunt down a separate sharpener, making it perfect for quick touch-ups on the go. The formula washes off cleanly with standard soap and water or micellar water, so you will not have to aggressively scrub your delicate eye area at night. It also sits well on the skin without causing irritation.
You should know that the "No Budge" claim is slightly exaggerated. While it holds up reasonably well, it frequently smudges or transfers to the lower waterline after a few hours of wear. The tip of the liner is also quite thick, so it is very difficult to achieve a fine, precise line or a delicate wing.
This is a fantastic everyday eyeliner if you want an easy-to-apply formula that is incredibly budget-friendly. It is a reliable choice for basic lining and adding depth to your lash line without any fuss.
Best Budget Pencil
e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner
You do not need to spend a fortune for a good everyday pencil. This retractable option is creamy, highly pigmented, and perfect for adding quick, smoky definition to your lash line.
Why We Love It
- The formula is creamy and glides onto the skin easily without painful tugging or aggressive pulling.
- The retractable barrel design is highly convenient and eliminates the need to carry a separate sharpener.
- Provides good, solid pigmentation for a dark, defined line along the lashes at an unbeatable price.
Worth Noting
- The "No Budge" claim is inaccurate; it frequently smudges or transfers to the lower waterline after a few hours.
- The tip is quite thick, making it nearly impossible to draw a fine, precise line or a sharp wing.
Key Specs
Tester Insights
Amara Okafor · Tested for 4 weeks
After a couple hours it tends to travel outside of the original line I had drawn for it, sometimes even transferring to my lower waterline.
Overall score: 7.4
Per-criterion scores:
Pigment Intensity: 8
Longevity and Wear: 6
Application and Precision: 6
Formula and Comfort: 8
Overall Value: 9
Verdict badge: Best Value
7: LAURA GELLER Kajal Longwear Kohl Eyeliner Pencil
The LAURA GELLER Kajal Longwear Kohl Eyeliner Pencil is designed specifically for those who love a rich, blendable look. The formula is incredibly creamy and infused with conditioning ingredients like Vitamin E, making it a very comfortable option for the delicate eye area. The pigment is dense, and the softer shades like Soft Black offer a flattering, natural definition.
You will appreciate how effortlessly this pencil glides on. It requires zero pressure, meaning absolutely no pulling or skipping on the skin. It comes with a handy built-in sharpener, and the formula sets well enough to last throughout a normal day. Many users with highly sensitive eyes report that this specific formula does not cause any burning or watering.
However, like many traditional kohl pencils, the tip is quite thick and blunt. It is nearly impossible to draw a sharp, narrow line with this product, even if you attempt to use the sharpener. The soft formula does not always set fully and can fade or smudge noticeably after a few hours. A few users also noted that it leaves a slightly sticky feeling on the eyelid.
This is a beautiful eyeliner if you prefer a thicker, softer line or a dramatically smudged-out look. It is an excellent choice for mature skin or anyone who hates dry, tugging pencils.
Best for Smoky Eyes
LAURA GELLER Kajal Longwear Kohl Eyeliner Pencil
If you love a soft, diffused look, this kohl pencil is perfection. It blends effortlessly and the formula is gentle enough that it won't irritate sensitive, watery eyes.
Why We Love It
- The formula is extremely soft and creamy, gliding onto the eyelid with zero tugging or pressure required.
- Often praised by users with sensitive eyes for not causing stinging, burning, or watering.
- The softer shades provide a flattering, natural definition that is ideal for older or mature skin.
Worth Noting
- The tip is very thick, making it nearly impossible to draw a sharp or narrow line.
- The soft formula does not always set fully and can fade or smudge noticeably after a few hours.
Key Specs
Tester Insights
Amara Okafor · Tested for 4 weeks
I used it 3 different days and after about 3 hours or so my eyes would start burning and watering.
Overall score: 6.8
Per-criterion scores:
Pigment Intensity: 8
Longevity and Wear: 6
Application and Precision: 5
Formula and Comfort: 8
Overall Value: 7
Verdict badge: Verified Pick
8: SELESTIA BEAUTY Black Liquid Eyeliner Pencil Queen Cobra
The SELESTIA BEAUTY Queen Cobra Liquid Eyeliner certainly stands out in a makeup bag. It features a unique, eye-catching golden cobra head cap that adds a fun, aesthetic flair to your vanity. The liquid formula delivers a true, deep black pigment that glides onto the eyelid very smoothly.
When the product works, it provides excellent staying power. Many users report that it survives long work shifts and sweaty environments without smearing or running down their face. The felt applicator is designed to help you create both thin, precise lines and bolder, thicker wings. It is also very affordable compared to high-end liquid liners.
Unfortunately, the quality control is highly inconsistent. The pen dries out incredibly quickly, sometimes after only a few uses. Several buyers discovered that the cartridge inside the tube was mostly empty upon arrival. The formula is also prone to flaking off in patches as you apply it, and the tip gets dull rapidly, making sharp lines difficult to achieve over time.
Buy this product if you absolutely love the novelty cobra packaging and want a cheap liquid liner for occasional use. However, the drying issues and flaking formula make it hard to recommend for serious daily wear.
Best Novelty Packaging
SELESTIA BEAUTY Black Liquid Eyeliner Pencil Queen Cobra
If you are looking for a striking statement piece for your makeup bag, this cobra-capped liner certainly delivers on bold aesthetics. When the ink flows properly, it provides a stark black wing, though it unfortunately struggles with drying out prematurely.
Why We Love It
- Features highly unique and attractive golden cobra head packaging that looks great on a makeup vanity.
- Delivers a true, deep black pigment that glides onto the eyelid very smoothly when the pen is fully saturated.
- The thin felt applicator is designed to help you easily create both fine, precise lines and bolder, thicker wings.
Worth Noting
- The pen dries out incredibly quickly, sometimes becoming unusable after only a couple of applications.
- Multiple buyers discovered that the cartridge inside the tube was mostly empty upon opening the new package.
Key Specs
Tester Insights
Amara Okafor · Tested for 4 weeks
It flakes off as you put it on and dries out quickly
Overall score: 6.2
Per-criterion scores:
Pigment Intensity: 8
Longevity and Wear: 6
Application and Precision: 7
Formula and Comfort: 5
Overall Value: 5
Verdict badge: None
How to Choose the Best Eyeliner for Your Eye Shape
The sheer volume of eyeliners available can feel overwhelming. To find your perfect match, you need to understand the different formulas and what they are best used for.
Liquid eyeliners are the ultimate tool for precision. If you are asking what are the best liquid eyeliners, you are usually looking for something to create a sharp cat-eye or a graphic liner look. They offer the most intense pigment and the sharpest lines. Felt tips are stiffer and often easier for beginners to control. Brush tips, like the NYX Epic Ink, are made of flexible bristles. They require a slightly steadier hand but offer a smoother, more fluid glide over the eyelid.
Pencils are the most versatile and beginner-friendly option. What are the best eyeliners for beginners? Usually, a creamy pencil. They are perfect for lining the waterline, smudging out for a smoky eye, or adding soft definition. Kohl and Kajal formulas are intentionally soft and smudgeable. They are great for the waterline but may not have the staying power of a gel pencil on the upper lid.
Tips for Preventing Smudging on Oily Lids
Even the best waterproof eyeliners can struggle against very oily eyelids. To extend the life of your liner, ensure your eyelids are clean and dry before application. Apply a dedicated eyeshadow primer to create a barrier between your skin's natural oils and the makeup. After applying a pencil or gel liner, use a small angled brush to press a matching matte eyeshadow directly over the line. This sets the creamy formula and locks it in place for hours.
Which Should You Buy?
If you want a flawless, razor-sharp wing that lasts all day, grab the NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Epic Ink Liner. It offers incredible precision and intense pigment at an unbeatable drugstore price.
If your eyelids are extremely oily and your makeup constantly melts, the stila Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner provides severe, budge-proof staying power.
If you prefer a softer, smudged look and want a pencil that will never tug on your delicate eyelids, the Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Liner Stick is a luxurious, reliable choice.
Complete Your Signature Look
Now that you have secured the best eyeliner to make your eyes pop, you need to ensure the rest of your aesthetic is just as flawless. A sharp cat-eye or a beautifully smudged waterline is only one piece of the puzzle when it comes to putting together a show-stopping appearance. To seamlessly tie your fresh makeup routine together with your everyday style, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide on. It has absolutely everything you need to step out the door feeling completely confident and put-together from head to toe.
Frequently Asked
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