Are you shopping for a marker? Find out which to buy between Copic and Promarkers in this article.
Thinking of getting a new marker but can’t decide which one to pick between Copic or Promarkers? Don’t worry as it’s a common dilemma facing hobbyists, artists, and even a few pros who aren’t familiar with these popular graphic markers.
Copic and Promarkers are two of the leading markers in the market today. But if you’re new to the world of drawing, then you might have a hard time choosing between the two.
Continue reading to know more about these markers and more importantly, determine which is better suited for your needs.
Background
Copic graphic markers are designed and manufactured by Tokyo-based Too Corporation. Founded in 1987, Copic is reputed to be the best alcohol-based marker in the world.
The Promarker is a marker designed and manufactured by a British firm called Windsor & Newton.
The brand was originally known as Letraset Promarker until 2012 when it was bought by Windsor & Newton.
So, don’t be confused if you still hear or read people comparing Letraset Promarker vs. Copic. Chances are, they’re still referring to the old maker of Promarker.
Types
Copic markers are available in four types- Copic Classic, Copic Ciao, Copic Sketch, and Copic Wide.
On the other hand, the Promarker is available in five types. All types have dual tips.
Both Copic and Promarkers are alcohol-based, which makes them quick to dry. Paper is unlikely to absorb the ink of the marker, which means the paper will not tear at all.
Alcohol-based markers are also capable of producing clear, bright, and streak-free colors.
Color Variation
Copic markers beat their counterparts from Promarkers in terms of color choices. Copic offers up to 358 colors while Promarkers only has 173 at the most.
If you’re looking for a marker with the widest color selection, then the Copic Sketch is your bet. Copic says it is their most popular and best-selling graphic marker. Available in 358 colors, it is ideal for fine art and illustration
The Copic Classic is another solid bet. As its name suggests, the Copic Classic is the original graphic marker from the Japanese brand. It is available in 214 colors although you can refill it with Copic ink, which offers 358 colors.
Use
The Copic Classic is best used for design renderings. Its broad nib or tip would let you cover a wider area sans the ugly streaks.
Meanwhile, its fine nib would allow you to precisely detail your drawings. If you are into graphic or architectural illustration, this is a good marker to consider.
If you are a beginner, the Copic Ciao may be just what you need. It comes in 180 colors, most of which have shades for easy layering and blending. Like the Classic, you can refill the Ciao with Copic Ink.
You may also opt for the Copic Sketch that has easy-to-use nibs. You can cover a larger area using it. It has a super brush for shading and blending colors.
But if you are a pro, then the Copic Wide is tailor-made for you.
Considered a specialist marker, the Copic Wide is best for rendering designs and backgrounds. It comes with a 21mm nib which you can use to quickly cover large areas. It also has sharp edges for precisely drawing thin lines and other effects.
The original Promarker may be an alternative for detailing or coloring large areas. It has fine and chisel nibs. It comes in 173 colors, too.
Or you may pick up the Promarker Brush, which also has a chisel nib and brush nib. Like the original Promarker, its chisel is best used for drawing large areas. But unlike the original, the Promarker Brush only has 72 colors.
If you want a marker for fast sketches, the Promarker Watercolor is a solid choice. It comes with a fine point nib to go along with its brush tip. It offers a limited number of colors, though, at 36.
The Promarker Metallic and Neon are noted for their colors. Available in 173 colors, the Metallic is best for illustration, design, and scrapbooking.
Lastly, the Promarker Neon also has fine and chisel ends. As you may guess, this promarker features bright and translucent colors. It is ideal for highlighting your creations.
Value for Money
It’s easy to understand why Copic markers are popular and in demand.
The markers are of professional quality and highly durable. When taken care of, Copic markers can last for 1-2 years.
Moreover, Copic markers are refillable. You can change the tip when it begins to wear down.
The problem with Copic is that it’s expensive. You’ll need to shell out more if you are to buy this brand of marker.
Price is one thing you’ll love about Promarkers. These graphic markers are way cheaper than Copic markers.
It’s really up to you to decide: pay for something expensive but would last long, or settle for a cheaper option that will last for a shorter period?
Conclusion
Now, which is better for you: Copic or Promarkers? The answer depends on your needs.
If you are willing to invest in professional-quality and durable markers, then Copic should be your pick.
But if you’re a hobbyist or a novice artist who’s still learning the ropes, so to speak, then Promarkers may be the most practical option.