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The Best Dry-Erase Markers

LineOn/EXPO/EXPO
🕚 Updated May 2022

Today's dry-erase markers offer more consistency, precision, and convenience than ever before. You can use them on many different surfaces without leaving behind any permanent markings or stains. If you need dry-erase markers for your classroom or home, check out these recommendations.

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  Best Chisel Tip Best Magnetic Markers Best Chalk Markers Best Starter Set Best Fine Tip
 
  EXPO
Low Odor Dry-Erase Markers, Chisel Tip, Assorted Colors, 8 Pack
U Brands
Low Odor Magnetic Dry-Erase Markers With Erasers
CHALKY CROWN
Dry-Erase Marker Pens - Chalk Markers for Chalkboards
Expo
Low Odor Dry-Erase Marker Set with White Board Eraser and Cleaner
Volcanics
Black Dry-Erase Markers
 
Our SummaryFrom the best-known source for dry-erase markers, these classic and colorful chisel-tip markers write smoothly and erase completely.You'll never have to search for your favorite dry-erase marker again.These eco-friendly water-based chalkboard markers are bright and fun, making a statement on your chalkboard without leaving a mess behind.Get four bold-colored markers and everything you need to leave your whiteboard squeaky clean.These fine-tip markers are the perfect tool for precise writing on a whiteboard.
ProsOutlast their competitors, opaque, easy to clean, trusted brand.Fantastic value, attached erasers, variety of colors, magnetic to keep in a convenient spot.Easy to clean, bright and vibrant colors, easy to activate color.Spray cleaner included, high-quality eraser, brand-name markers.Affordable, write smoothly without transparent streaks, fine points.
ConsA couple might arrive with dry tips.Lighter marks than some other brands.Messy when activating color.Cleaner may leak.Hard to store upside down.
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The Best Dry-Erase Markers

a boy writes on a whiteboard with a dry erase marker; colored EXPO markers lined up on a table; a whiteboard calendar for April is displayed on a wall
LineOn/EXPO/EXPO

Buying Guide for Dry-Erase Markers

Four dry erase markers next to an eraser on a whiteboard calendar.
Mike Flippo/Shutterstock.com

Why buy dry-erase markers? 

Dry-erase markers are a writing tool that can convey information in many types of environments. Breweries and restaurants may use them for “specials” boards. Kids may use them to create fun art projects. They’re used in boardrooms, classrooms, and home offices, too. If you need to pin up an idea, write a schedule, create a to-do list, or tickle potential customers with a funny joke, you may want to have some dry-erase markers on hand.

What should you consider in dry-erase markers?

  • Consistency: Don’t you hate it when you go to write on your whiteboard, and your marker only produces a sad, faint line? Find markers that deliver clear, consistent, bold writing and ones that won’t dry out on your second week of using them.
  • Versatility: Dry-erase markers are viable to use on various surfaces, including whiteboards, glass, and plastics. Some are also smear-proof, meaning you won’t ruin any markings that you make when accidentally rubbing up against them. You can also find them in an array of color options so that you can get a little more creative.
  • Low Odor: Now, dry-erase markers are practically odorless, which will benefit you immensely when it comes to the risk of potentially becoming nauseous each time you open the cap. They are also non-toxic and safe to use among children.

How long do dry-erase markers last?

One well-known dry-erase marker company claims that their markers can last two to three years if properly stored with the caps on. But almost anyone who’s ever used a dry-erase marker knows that the ink begins to run dry after a while. After some research, we’ve found that the internet is full of fun methods to revive your dry-erase markers. But there’s one method that takes the least amount of work and uses zero tools or chemicals: simply store them upside down!

Our Picks for the Best Dry-Erase Markers

Best Chisel Tip

EXPO Low Odor Dry-Erase Markers, Chisel Tip

From the best-known source for dry-erase markers, these classic and colorful chisel-tip markers write smoothly and erase completely.

Pros: These brand-name markers are known to outlast their competitors when it comes to the longevity of the ink. The black and dark-colored markers write thick, nontransparent, and fluid, and the lighter markers are vibrant in color. And for teachers and parents, these dry-erase markers are easy to clean off of clothing, making them perfect for a classroom or homeschool setting.

Cons: Due to storage and transit, one or two markers may arrive dry. However, there is an easy fix. Simply flip them upside down and store them on their caps until the ink reappears.

Bottom Line: Here are the go-to, brand-name dry-erase markers in a multitude of bright colors. With a proper eraser and cleaning spray, they’re easy to clean off your whiteboard. And they don’t have a strong smell, which is great for sensitive noses.

 

Best Magnetic Markers

U Brands Low Odor Magnetic Dry-Erase Markers With Erasers

You'll never have to search for your favorite dry-erase marker again.

Pros: These dry-erase markers are a fantastic value. This is especially true since they come with attached erasers and can be stored easily with their magnetic backs. Plus, the pack comes with a wide variety of colors, perfect for any whiteboard project.

Cons: These markers write more transparently than other brands.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a great value pack of whiteboard markers, these are a great find. They erase easily and don’t leave residue on your board. Pro tip: If you store them upside down, the ink won’t dry out!

 

Best Chalk Markers

CHALKY CROWN Dry-Erase Marker Pens

These eco-friendly, water-based, dry-erase chalkboard markers are bright and fun, making a statement on your chalkboard without leaving a mess behind.

Pros: One of the best things about these dry-erase chalkboard markers is that they’re straightforward to clean off any nonporous surface. The colors are bright and vibrant, especially the blue, white, and pink markers. And unlike some other chalkboard markers, it’s easy (if not a touch messy) to activate the color.

Cons: As stated above, these markers can be a bit messy when initially activating the color. To prevent a large mess, shake the markers with the caps on, then touch the tip lightly on your surface two or three times.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for some bright and beautiful chalkboard markers, these ones are great! They work beautifully on nonporous surfaces such as glass, nonporous or seasoned chalkboards, and plexiglass. They’re a great replacement for dusty, messy chalk.

 

Best Starter Set

Expo Low Odor Dry-Erase Marker Set with White Board Eraser and Cleaner

Get four bold-colored markers and everything you need to leave your whiteboard squeaky clean.

Pros: The best thing about this starter pack is the spray. If you use the spray after fully erasing your board, it will remain cleaner longer. The eraser is also high-quality and will last a long time as long as you don’t lose it. The markers are high-quality as well, living up to their brand-name standard.

Cons: The cleanser needs to be stored upright, or it will leak.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a great starter kit of dry-erase markers and cleaning products, this may be the right product for you. The included colors are dense and bold, and they won’t disappoint. And the cleanser will last a long time if it’s not overused and if it’s stored properly.

 

Best Fine Tip

Volcanics Black Dry-Erase Markers

These fine-tip markers are the perfect tool for precise writing on a whiteboard.

Pros: What a value! These packs are very affordable, considering the number of markers that come in them. They write smoothly without transparent streaks. And the fine points can write on just about any smooth surface, big or small.

Cons: Because of the design of the tip, it’s difficult to store these markers upside down when you want to revive the ink.

Bottom Line: If you require fine tip dry-erase markers, these packs are a steal. They’re high-quality for a price that’s affordable for most. And they’re low-odor, so you don’t have to deal with annoying marker smells.

Final Thoughts

There are many instances where having dry-erase markers on hand will be convenient. Whether you’re a student, parent, teacher, scheduler, or doodler, check out these quality dry-erase markers.

Nick Pappas Nick Pappas
Nick Pappas is a freelance writer for LifeSavvy from South Bend, IN. He earned his bachelor's degree in English and has written content and short stories for ABC57 News and Kansas City Voices. Away from the computer, you can find Nick traveling and filmmaking, though his interests are constantly changing! Read Full Bio »
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