Last Updated on July 14, 2023 by Dee
We all know that feeling, right? You’re standing in the art supply store, dreaming of those top-of-the-line Copic markers. You need a Copic Markers alternative.
They’re like the Ferraris of the art world – smooth, luxurious, and, unfortunately, with a price tag to match.
But hold up! Who says you need to drop wads of cash to let your creativity run wild?
It’s time to put that myth to bed. In this guide, we’re introducing you to six fantastic Copic alternatives that’ll give your artwork a bang without giving your wallet a whack.
So, strap in, and let’s get colorful!
**This page may contain affiliate links to products I have used or recommend. If you purchase something from this page, I may receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.**
Are you an artist or illustrator looking for alternatives to Copic markers? While Copics are considered among the best art markers for professionals, they can be pretty expensive, with each marker costing between $6 and $8.
Luckily, there are several Copic marker alternatives that offer similar quality at a more affordable price.
One of the best Copic marker alternatives is Prismacolor Premier Double-Ended Art Markers. These markers feature a dual tip design with a fine point and chisel tip, making them versatile for a range of art styles.
They are also alcohol-based, ensuring smooth and consistent ink flow. With a price point of around $2 per marker, they are a more budget-friendly option than Copics.
Another great option is the Ohuhu Double-Tipped Permanent Art Marker. These markers come in a set of 120 colors and feature a dual tip design with a fine point and chisel tip. They are also alcohol-based, ensuring vibrant and long-lasting colors.
At a price point of around $0.50 per marker, they are a highly affordable alternative to Copics without sacrificing quality.
Copic Sketch Markers: The Top Dog and Its Competitors
Copic Sketch Markers are like the Rolls Royce of the art world. Artists and designers rave about their quality and the mind-boggling array of colors.
These alcohol-based bad boys have two nibs – a broad chisel on one end and a flexible brush on the other, making them a Swiss army knife for your artistic needs.
They glide across the page smoothly, layer like a dream, and blend colors like nobody’s business.
But let’s be real; Copics can make your wallet cry.
They’re pricy, which might make beginners, hobbyists, or artists on a budget think twice. But don’t worry, we’ve got some solid alternatives to consider.
6 Top Copic Alternatives
Art doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag. When the high-end Copic markers are a stretch too far, check out these more affordable alternatives that still pack an artistic punch.
Ohuhu Markers: The Budget Superstar
Ohuhu Markers are like the indie band that’s just as good as the top charts. They’re alcohol markers, significantly cheaper than Copics but still pull their weight in the quality department.
They offer a color spectrum that would make a rainbow jealous and sport dual tips – a broad one and a fine one. While they don’t have a brush tip, they still lay down color like a pro and blend like a champ.
Using Ohuhu feels like driving a sports car on a budget. The colors pop off the page, and they glide smoothly.
Ideal for students, teachers, and beginners, they offer a solid entry point into the world of alcohol markers without breaking the bank.
Prismacolor Premier Double-Ended Art Markers: Smooth Operators
Think of Prismacolor Premier markers as the love child of luxury and affordability.
These markers feel like holding a premium tool, sturdy yet comfortable, making long art sessions a breeze.
The best part?
The colors blend effortlessly, enabling you to create beautiful gradients and transitions with ease.
They’re perfect for artists who want to level up their blending game.
Touch Twin Markers: Reliable Workhorses
Touch Twin markers are the trusty steed of the art world – reliable, versatile, and affordable.
These markers feel robust in your hand, giving you the confidence to sketch and draw without worry.
The ink lays down smoothly, providing a rich, vibrant color payoff that makes your illustrations and sketches pop. These markers are a go-to for artists who need a reliable tool for their day-to-day creations.
Bianyo Classic Series Alcohol-Based Dual Tip Art Markers: Precision Masters
Bianyo Classic Series markers are like a surgeon’s scalpel – precise, reliable, and easy to handle.
They feel sturdy and well-balanced, allowing for accurate strokes and detailed work.
The ink is rich and vibrant, making your illustrations stand out, and they blend beautifully, adding depth and dimension to your artwork. Ideal for artists focusing on intricate illustration work.
Art-n-Fly Professional Brush Markers: Pro Quality, Amateur Price
Art-n-Fly markers are like finding a high-end item at a thrift shop – top quality at an affordable price.
These markers feel premium in your hand, the brush tip allowing for a range of strokes, from the thinnest lines to broad sweeps.
The ink is vibrant and blends well, creating a stunning color depth in your artwork. These are perfect for artists ready to step up their game without stepping up their spending.
Arteza Art Markers: Color Galore
Arteza Art Markers are like the buffet of markers – they offer a wide range of colors that will satisfy your creative cravings.
Each marker has a fine tip and a broad chisel, so you can switch up your style on the fly. They’re also alcohol-based and provide a rich, saturated color that can jazz up any artwork.
Using Arteza is like painting with a high-end brush but in a marker. They’re perfect for graphic artists, and design students who need to produce vibrant and professional-looking work, but without the Copic price tag.
The Scoop on Alcohol Markers
So, what’s the deal with alcohol markers like Copic pens and these alternatives we’ve just chatted about? They’re markers that use alcohol as the main juice for the ink. This gives them a few superpowers.
Firstly, they dry faster than a cheetah sprints. The alcohol in the ink evaporates super quickly, which can be a game-changer in art and design work.
Secondly, they’re smooth operators, laying down color without leaving streaks. This smooth coloring makes them a go-to for illustrators, designers, and comic artists.
Lastly, they bring the color party. The alcohol-based ink can hold more dye, which means these markers offer intensely vibrant colors and a broad range of hues.
Alcohol markers are a bit more expensive, but as we’ve shown, there are cheaper alternatives out there that can give you the same versatility and quality. So whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s an alcohol marker out there for you. Happy creating!
More Affordable Gems: Perfect Pick for Every Artist
Still not found your perfect match?
There’s more where those came from. Prismacolor Premier markers offer the smoothness and vibrancy of higher-priced counterparts.
MemOffice Dual Tips Alcohol Markers are a dream for detail work, their fine tip gliding effortlessly across the paper.
Smart Color Art Markers boast a dazzling array of colors, and Faber-Castell Duotip Washable Markers are perfect for younger artists, with a grip designed for smaller hands and washable ink for easy clean-up.
Affordable Copic Alternatives
If you’re an artist, you know that Copic markers are one of the best markers out there. However, they can be quite expensive. Luckily, there are affordable alternatives that still provide great quality.
One of the most popular affordable alternatives is the Ohuhu markers. They come in a wide range of colors, are double-tipped, and are very affordable. They are perfect for beginners who want to try out alcohol-based markers without breaking the bank.
Another great affordable option is the Prismacolor Premier Double-Ended Art Markers. They are also double-tipped and come in a wide range of colors. They are perfect for artists who want to blend colors and create beautiful gradients.
If you’re looking for a marker set that is specifically designed for blending, then the Arteza Everblend Art Markers might be the perfect choice for you. They are affordable and come in a set of 60 colors that are perfect for blending.
The Touch Twin markers are also a great affordable alternative. They are double-tipped and come in a wide range of colors. They are perfect for artists who want to create beautiful illustrations and sketches.
Another affordable option is the Bianyo Classic Series Alcohol-Based Dual Tip Art Markers. They are perfect for artists who want to create beautiful illustrations and sketches. They come in a wide range of colors and are double-tipped.
The Art-n-Fly Professional Brush Markers are also a great affordable alternative. They are perfect for artists who want to create beautiful illustrations and sketches. They come in a wide range of colors and are double-tipped.
Other affordable options include the Prismacolor Premier markers, the MemOffice Dual Tips Alcohol Markers, the Smart Color Art Markers, and the Faber-Castell Duotip Washable Markers.
Overall, there are many affordable Copic marker alternatives out there that provide great quality. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional artist, there is an affordable option out there for you.
Understanding Copic Markers
If you’re an artist or illustrator, you’ve probably heard of Copic markers. These professional-grade markers are known for their high-quality and versatility.
They’re alcohol-based, which means they use alcohol as a solvent to mix the ink. This makes them popular among artists because they blend easily and dry quickly.
Copic markers come in a wide range of colors and are double-ended, with a brush tip on one end and a chisel tip on the other.
This makes them ideal for a variety of art styles, from fine detail work to broad strokes. They’re also refillable, which makes them a more sustainable option than disposable markers.
While Copic markers are popular, they can be expensive. If you’re looking for a more affordable alternative, there are other alcohol-based art markers on the market that may fit your needs.
Some popular options include Promarkers, Prismacolor markers, Zig markers, and Blick Studio Markers.
These markers offer similar features to Copic markers, such as a wide range of colors and a blendable, alcohol-based ink.
It’s important to note that not all art markers are created equal. Some markers use a solvent-based ink, which can have a stronger odor and take longer to dry.
Alcohol-based ink markers, like Copic markers, are generally considered to be a better option for professional artists and illustrators.
Copic markers are a popular choice for professional artists and illustrators due to their high-quality, versatility, and blendability.
However, they can be expensive, and there are other alcohol-based art markers on the market that may fit your needs. When choosing a marker, consider the type of ink, the range of colors available, and the tip options to find the best fit for your art style.
Copic Marker Features
When it comes to markers, Copic markers are one of the most popular brands out there.
They are known for their high-quality pigment, vibrant colors, and their ability to blend seamlessly.
But what makes Copic markers stand out from other markers?
Let’s take a closer look at their features.
Copic markers come with a brush tip, chisel tip, and a fine tip, all in one marker. This means you can use one marker to create different line widths, from thin to thick.
The brush tip is perfect for creating fine details and blending colors, while the chisel tip is great for filling in large areas or creating broad strokes.
One of the best features of Copic markers is that they are refillable.
This means you can use the same marker over and over again, simply by refilling the ink. Not only is this more cost-effective, but it’s also better for the environment.
Copic markers also have replaceable nibs, which means if the nib gets damaged or worn out, you can replace it without having to buy a whole new marker.
This is especially useful if you have a favorite marker that you use frequently.
When it comes to blending, Copic markers are known for their ability to blend seamlessly. This is due to their alcohol-based ink, which allows the colors to blend smoothly without leaving any streaks or lines.
The colorless blender marker is also a great tool for blending colors together and creating a seamless transition.
Copic markers come in a wide range of vibrant colors, including flesh tones, which are perfect for portrait work.
The ink consistency is also consistent across all colors, which means you won’t have to worry about the ink being too thick or too thin.
Copic markers have a range of features that make them a popular choice for artists and designers.
Their brush, chisel, and fine tips, refillable and replaceable nibs, colorless blender, and vibrant colors make them a versatile and reliable tool for any project.
Why Look for Alternatives?
If you’re an artist or illustrator, you are probably familiar with Copic markers. They are widely considered to be among the best art markers on the market, and for good reason.
They are versatile, long-lasting, and produce vibrant colors that are perfect for any project. However, there is one downside to Copic markers: they can be very expensive.
Each marker can cost between $6 and $8, which can add up quickly if you need a lot of them.
That’s why it’s important to consider Copic marker alternatives. There are many high-quality markers on the market that can produce similar results to Copics, but at a much lower cost.
These alternative markers are often referred to as “Copic dupes” or “Copic marker alternatives.”
By looking for alternative markers, you can save a lot of money without sacrificing quality.
This is especially important if you’re starting out as an artist and don’t have a lot of money to spend on supplies. Even if you’re an experienced artist, it’s always a good idea to consider alternative markers to save some money.
When looking for Copic alternatives, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you want to make sure that the markers you choose are of high quality.
Cheaper markers may not produce the same vibrant colors as Copics, or they may not last as long. Second, you want to consider the cost.
While alternative markers are generally cheaper than Copics, some brands may still be more expensive than others.
Finally, you want to make sure that the markers you choose are compatible with your preferred medium. Some markers may work better on certain types of paper or surfaces than others.
Overall, there are many reasons to consider Copic marker alternatives.
Whether you’re looking to save money or want to try something new, there are plenty of high-quality markers on the market that can produce similar results to Copics.
By doing your research and choosing the right markers for your needs, you can create beautiful artwork without breaking the bank.
Features of Copic Alternatives
If you’re looking for a Copic marker alternative, there are a few features you should consider before making your purchase.
Here are some key features to look for when choosing a Copic marker alternative:
Ink
One of the most important features to consider when choosing a Copic marker alternative is the type of ink used.
Copic markers use alcohol-based ink, which dries quickly and is ideal for blending.
However, some alternatives use water-based ink, which may not blend as well but can be a good option if you’re looking for a more affordable marker.
Nibs
The nibs on your markers are another important feature to consider.
Copic markers have replaceable nibs, which is a great feature if you plan on using your markers frequently.
Some alternatives also have replaceable nibs, while others do not.
Color Selection
Copic markers have a wide range of colors to choose from, which is great if you need a specific shade for your artwork.
When choosing an alternative, make sure to look for a brand that offers a similar range of colors.
Price Point
Copic markers can be expensive, so price is definitely a consideration when looking for an alternative.
There are many affordable alternatives on the market that offer similar quality at a lower price point.
Carrying Case
If you plan on taking your markers with you on the go, a carrying case is a must-have accessory. Some Copic alternatives come with a carrying case, while others do not. Make sure to choose a brand that offers a case if you need one.
Body
The body of your markers is another important feature to consider. Copic markers have a triangular body, which is designed to be comfortable to hold and prevent rolling.
Some alternatives also have a triangular body, while others have a different shape.
Odorless
Copic markers are known for being odorless, which is great if you’re sensitive to strong smells.
When looking for an alternative, make sure to choose a brand that offers odorless markers if this is important to you.
Paper
The type of paper you use with your markers can also affect the final result. Copic markers work well on a variety of papers, including thin paper, but some alternatives may not perform as well on certain types of paper.
Make sure to test your markers on different types of paper to see which works best.
Vivid Colors
Copic markers are known for their vivid colors, which is a great feature if you want your artwork to stand out.
When looking for an alternative, make sure to choose a brand that offers vivid colors that are similar to Copic markers.
Fast-drying
Copic markers dry quickly, which is great if you’re working on a time-sensitive project. When looking for an alternative, make sure to choose a brand that offers fast-drying markers if this is important to you.
Color Range
Copic markers have a wide range of colors to choose from, which is great if you need a specific shade for your artwork.
When choosing an alternative, make sure to look for a brand that offers a similar range of colors.
Choosing the Right Marker
When it comes to choosing the right marker as a beginner or an experienced artist, there are a few things to keep in mind. Below are some factors to consider when selecting an alternative to Copic markers:
- Ink Quality: Look for markers with high-quality alcohol-based ink that allows for smooth blending and layering. The ink should be vibrant and long-lasting.
- Color Variety: Consider the number of colors available in the set. You want a broad range of colors to experiment with, especially if you’re into calligraphy or shading.
- Tip Options: Different tip options allow for different line widths and effects. Bullet tips are great for outlining and details, while chisel tips are ideal for filling in larger areas. Brush tips are perfect for creating smooth and natural-looking strokes.
- Price: Copic markers can be quite expensive, so cost is an important factor to consider. Look for markers that offer a similar quality at a more affordable price.
- Crafters: If you’re a crafter, you may want to consider markers that work on a variety of surfaces, such as paper, fabric, and wood.
It’s important to experiment with different markers to find the one that suits your needs best. Don’t be afraid to try different brands and types to find the perfect alternative to Copic markers.
What are Copic Sketch Markers, and what would be a good alternative?
Copic Sketch Markers are highly respected among artists and designers for their quality and range of colors. These alcohol-based markers offer two nib options—a broad chisel on one end and a flexible brush on the other—which makes them versatile for various styles and techniques. Furthermore, Copic Sketch markers are known for their smooth color application and the ability to layer or blend colors seamlessly.
However, Copic Sketch markers are also quite expensive, making them inaccessible to beginners, hobbyists, or artists on a budget. Therefore, there are a few noteworthy alternatives to consider.
1. Ohuhu Markers: These alcohol markers are highly rated and come at a much lower cost than Copics. They offer a great range of colors and are dual tips alcohol markers – one broad and one fine. While they lack a brush tip, the quality of their color and blending abilities make them an excellent cheap Copic alternatives.
2. Arteza Art Markers: Arteza offers a wide range of colors in their marker sets, and the markers have dual tips with one being a fine tip and the other a broad chisel. They’re alcohol-based and provide excellent color saturation, and they’re also significantly more affordable than Copic pens.
3. Bianyo Classic Series Alcohol-Based Dual Tip Art Markers: These markers are another fantastic alternative, offering a broad chisel and a fine point tip. Their alcohol-based ink is smooth, blends well, and they come in a robust range of colors. Plus, they are far more affordable than Copic markers.
Alcohol Markers: The Lowdown
Alright, let’s dive into the world of alcohol markers.
First up, what even are they? Well, these are a special type of marker that uses, you guessed it, alcohol as the main juice to carry the ink. This is different from your typical markers that use water. Brands you might have heard of, like Copic or Prismacolor, are examples of these, but there are also budget-friendly options out there like Ohuhu and Arteza.
When and Why You’d Use Them
So, when would you bust out these bad boys? They’re super versatile. Whether you’re sketching a design for a new superhero costume, dreaming up the latest runway fashion, or making your own greeting cards, alcohol markers got your back. Why? They’re smooth operators, laying down color like butter, and those colors pop like New Year’s Eve fireworks. Plus, they’re real team players – the colors blend together seamlessly.
The Cool Stuff They Can Do
Alcohol markers aren’t just your average markers. They’ve got a couple of tricks up their sleeves:
1. Blending: Alcohol markers are the Picasso of blending. The alcohol-based ink can be worked into the paper and you can create new colors right on the page, or smooth transitions between different colors. This blending ability means you can create depth and dimension that’s hard to achieve with other markers.
2. Vibrancy: The color you get with these markers is intense, in the best possible way. Because the ink is alcohol-based, it can hold more color, and that shows in the end result. This makes alcohol markers great when you want something to really stand out.
Things to Keep in Mind
Now, using alcohol markers isn’t quite the same as using the water-based markers you might be more familiar with.
1. Bleed-through: Because of the alcohol in the ink, these markers tend to bleed through the paper more than water-based markers. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it does mean you’ll want to have an extra sheet of paper underneath your work to avoid any accidents.
2. Layering: Alcohol markers love to layer. Unlike water-based markers, where too much layering can tear the paper, alcohol markers handle layering like a pro. It’s a big part of why they blend so well. But remember, more layers equals more ink, so bleed-through can be more of an issue.
3. Fast-drying: Alcohol markers dry quickly, which is great when you’re working fast and don’t want to smudge your work. But, this also means you need to cap them when they’re not in use, otherwise, you’ll be back at the store buying new markers in no time.
So there you have it. Alcohol markers are a great tool to have in your artist’s kit. They might take a bit of getting used to if you’re new to them, but once you’ve got the hang of it, you’ll love the results you can achieve. Happy creating!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some markers similar to Copics but more affordable?
If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to Copics, there are several options available. Some popular choices include the Ohuhu markers, the Prismacolor markers, and the Caliart alcohol brush markers. These markers offer similar features to Copics, such as dual tips and alcohol-based ink, but at a more affordable price point.
How do Ohuhu markers compare to Copics?
Ohuhu markers are a great alternative to Copics, especially if you’re on a tight budget. While they may not have the same level of quality as Copics, they are still a great option for beginners or those who are just starting out with art markers. Ohuhu markers offer dual tips, a wide range of colors, and alcohol-based ink, just like Copics.
Are Prismacolor markers a good alternative to Copics?
Prismacolor markers are another popular alternative to Copics. They offer a wide range of colors, dual tips, and alcohol-based ink, just like Copics. While they may not be as high-quality as Copics, they are still a great option for artists on a budget.
What are some cheaper alternatives to a full set of Copics?
If you can’t afford a full set of Copics, don’t worry! There are several cheaper alternatives available. You can start by purchasing a smaller set of Copics, or by trying out some of the other markers mentioned in this article. You can also consider purchasing some cheaper markers to use alongside your Copics, such as the Sharpie markers or the Crayola markers.
Why are Copics so expensive compared to other markers?
Copics are more expensive than other markers because of their high-quality and unique features. Copics are known for their blendability, vibrant colors, and long-lasting ink. They are also refillable, which means you can use them for a long time without having to replace them. While they may be more expensive upfront, they can save you money in the long run.
Can Sharpies be used as a substitute for Copics?
While Sharpies can be used as a substitute for Copics in a pinch, they are not a great long-term alternative. Sharpies are not designed for use in artwork, and their ink can fade over time. Additionally, Sharpies do not have the same level of blendability or color range as Copics. If you’re serious about art, it’s best to invest in a high-quality set of markers like Copics.
Other articles you may enjoy…
Best Copic Markers to Start With: A Beginner’s Guide
Best Sketchbooks for Copic Markers: Top Picks for Artists
Why are Copic Markers So Expensive? Here’s the Reason
Anime Drawings: A Quick Guide for Budding Artists
15 Best Pencil Cases for Artists & How you Should Choose One