Copic Ciao vs Sketch

Among artists, the Copic brand is one of the most popular. However, within this brand are dozens of types of markers and there is a long-standing debate about which one is better between the

Copic Ciao vs Sketch. Both types of Copic markers have their own sets of benefits, but which one should beginner artists choose?

The Copic Ciao and Sketch markers use the same ink, but they also have a lot of differences. This article will discuss the differences between these two sets of markers, and you might learn enough about them that you can choose which one to use.

Copic Ciao vs Sketch Markers – Which is Better?

The Ciao and Sketch markers are both made by Copic, one of the most popular marker brands in the world. These two markers are also among the best in their class. This is why artists have a hard time choosing between them. Many just chose to get both sets. However, this is not an option for most beginners as Copic markers are not cheap.

Here is a quick guide on choosing between the Copic ciao markers vs sketch that you can use as a guide.

Nibs

The nibs are the writing tips of markers, and Copic markers use some of the best nibs in the industry. The Ciao and Sketch markers use similar nibs. Both feature a broad chisel nib, which you can find at one end. At the other end would be the brush tip. The chisel nib is firm and cut at an angle; this nib is used primarily for calligraphy.

The brush tip is quite flexible and you can often use it in the same way you would use actual brushes. Artists usually use brush tips for coloring and brush calligraphy. The nice thing about brush tips is that you can vary line weights by pressing down the nib on the paper.

Number of Colors

The biggest difference between Copic ciao and sketch is the number of colors. When it comes to color variety, the Copic Sketch markers have significantly more color variety compared to the Ciao.

The biggest Copic Sketch set contains 358 different colors while the Ciao only has 180 colors. This means the Sketch has almost double the number of colors that the Ciao has.

Even though there are more Copic Sketch colors, it is still somewhat cheaper than the Ciao but only by a couple of dollars.

Refilling

The neat thing about these markers is that they are both refillable, so you essentially just need to buy one set and then ink refills after that. Although you can’t usually find Copic ink refills in regular art supply stores, you can find them online.

Since the Sketch markers have a bigger barrel and the refill bottles only come in one size, you can expect to refill them around 12 times, and the Ciao markers up to 15 times.

Ergonomics

The ergonomics of Copic markers are quite nice. However, between Sketch and Ciao, comfort is strictly subjective. The Sketch markers are larger and have a slightly oval shape, making them easier to hold properly.

On the other hand, the Ciao markers have smaller and rounded barrels. This makes it easier for people with smaller hands to use. However, this also makes the Ciao markers very prone to rolling off your desk. This is not that big of a deal but it can get quite annoying after some time.

Overall, both Ciao and Sketch markers have similar shapes and feel. The best thing that you can do is to visit your local art supply store. They usually have a couple of tester markers. Try holding and using both the Ciao and Sketch markers and choose the one that feels most comfortable for you.

Conclusion

If you have saved enough money and you are wondering which of the Copic Sketch vs Ciao markers are a better value, the facts state that the Sketch markers are better. But not by much. If you are not that particular about having as many color options, you should still try using both and then picking the one that feels right for you.