Finding quality school supplies at discounted prices can be a challenge, but it’s entirely possible with the right choices. The best overall pick, BIC Xtra Smooth Bright Edition Mechanical Pencils, offers reliable performance and affordability. For those seeking bulk value, the 144 Count Colored Pencils for Kids deliver a wide variety at a low cost, while Crayola Crayons and Colored Pencils offer trusted brands for creative projects. However, tradeoffs often include durability, ink quality, and pack sizes. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown to help you make the smartest buys for your budget and needs.
Key Takeaways
- Bulk packs provide the best value but may include more supplies than needed for smaller households.
- Trusted brands like Crayola balance cost with reliable quality, especially for young children.
- Choosing versatile supplies like mechanical pencils can reduce waste compared to traditional wood pencils.
- Color variety and pigment quality vary significantly, affecting the suitability for art projects.
- Price fluctuations across retailers mean shopping in advance can lead to bigger savings.
| BIC Xtra Smooth Bright Edition Mechanical Pencils, 0.7 mm, 40-Count |  | Best Overall for Classroom Use | Point Size: 0.7 mm | Pack Size: 40 pencils | Refillable: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 144 Count Colored Pencils for Kids, 12 Packs, Bulk 12 Colors |  | Best Value for Art Supplies | Quantity: 144 pencils | Packs: 12 packs | Colors: 12 vibrant rainbow colors | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Assorted Ink Ballpoint Pens, 60-Count, 1.0mm |  | Best for Reliable Everyday Writing | Quantity: 60 pens | Ink Color: Assorted | Point Size: 1.0mm | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct) – Classroom and Art Supplies for Kids & Adults |  | Best for Creative Expression | Quantity: 36 colored pencils | Ages: 3+ | Features: Pre-sharpened, durable, smooth glide | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Rarlan Wood-Cased #2 HB Pencils, Pre-sharpened, 200 Count Bulk Pack |  | Best for Bulk Classroom and Office Use | Writing Instrument Form: Graphite Pencil | Ink Color: Black | Drill Point: graphite | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Crayola Crayons Bulk (24 Packs) |  | Best for Large Group Projects and Classrooms | Number of Boxes: 24 | Crayon Count per Box: 24 | Colors Included: Apricot, Black, Blue, Bluetiful, Blue Green, Blue Violet, Brown, Carnation Pink, Cerulean, Gray, Green, Green Yellow, Indigo, Orange, Red, Red Orange, Red Violet, Scarlet, Violet, Violet Red, White, Yellow, Yellow Green, Yellow Orange | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| discount school supplie | Quantity |
|---|---|
| BIC Xtra Smooth Bright Edition | — |
| 144 Count Colored Pencils for | 144 pencils |
| BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Assor | 60 pens |
| Crayola Colored Pencils | 36 colored pencils |
| Rarlan Wood-Cased #2 HB Pencil | — |
| Crayola Crayons Bulk | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
BIC Xtra Smooth Bright Edition Mechanical Pencils, 0.7 mm, 40-Count
This pack of BIC Xtra Smooth Bright Edition mechanical pencils stands out for its smooth, no-smudge writing experience, making it ideal for students who need reliable, everyday writing tools. Compared to the Rarlan Wood-Cased #2 HB Pencils, these are more convenient for quick note-taking without sharpening, though they require refilling lead and erasers over time. Their bright, colorful barrels help with quick identification in busy classrooms, a feature less prominent in traditional wooden pencils. The refillable design extends usability, but the limited to a 0.7 mm point might not satisfy those seeking broader line variation. This pick makes the most sense for educators and students who prioritize smoothness and convenience over traditional pencil feel.
Pros:- Smooth, no-smudge writing suitable for left- and right-handed users
- Refillable lead and eraser extend usability
- Bright, colorful barrels for easy identification
Cons:- Limited to 0.7 mm point size, restricting line variation
- Requires refilling for extended use
- Design may not appeal to those preferring traditional wooden pencils
Best for: Students and teachers who need a reliable, smooth-writing pencil for daily use and classroom assignments
Not ideal for: Artists or users seeking a variety of line thicknesses, as the 0.7 mm point is somewhat limiting
- Point Size:0.7 mm
- Pack Size:40 pencils
- Refillable:Yes
- Color:Bright Edition barrels
Our verdict“This mechanical pencil set is perfect for everyday classroom writing, especially for those valuing smoothness and convenience.”
144 Count Colored Pencils for Kids, 12 Packs, Bulk 12 Colors
This set of 144 colored pencils offers an impressive quantity suitable for classrooms, art classes, or gifting, making it a clear choice for those on a budget. Compared with the Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct), this bulk set provides much more variety at a lower per-pencil cost, though it offers fewer color options overall. The pre-sharpened, durable wood construction ensures immediate use and long-lasting sharpness, which is especially helpful for younger students or casual artists. However, the limited color palette—just 12 shades—may not satisfy more advanced users needing extensive color options or blending tools. This set makes the most sense for teachers and parents looking for quantity and affordability over professional-level color diversity.
Pros:- Large quantity suitable for multiple users or long-term projects
- Pre-sharpened for immediate use
- Vibrant, smooth colors with durable, non-toxic materials
Cons:- Bulk set may be excessive for casual users
- Limited to 12 colors, restricting variety
- No individual color selection option
Best for: Classrooms, casual artists, or parents seeking affordable, large quantities of colored pencils
Not ideal for: Professional artists or hobbyists requiring a broader and more nuanced color range
- Quantity:144 pencils
- Packs:12 packs
- Colors:12 vibrant rainbow colors
- Material:Wood
- Sharpened:Yes
- Age Range:3+
Our verdict“This bulk set balances affordability and quantity, making it ideal for educational settings and casual coloring needs.”
BIC Round Stic Xtra Life Assorted Ink Ballpoint Pens, 60-Count, 1.0mm
The BIC Round Stic Xtra Life ballpoint pens excel in delivering consistent ink flow and durability, making them a solid choice for students and professionals who need dependable pens for daily tasks. Compared to the Rarlan Wood-Cased #2 HB Pencils, these pens eliminate sharpening and provide clean, smooth lines immediately, although they are limited to a medium 1.0 mm point, which offers less precision for fine detail. The translucent barrel allows users to monitor ink levels easily, reducing unexpected run-outs during exams or lengthy writing sessions. While their assorted ink colors add variety, they may not suit users who prefer monochrome or specific color schemes. This pick is best for users seeking straightforward, long-lasting pens for high-volume writing environments.
Pros:- Long-lasting ink supply reduces need for frequent replacements
- Smooth and consistent ink flow for comfortable writing
- Translucent barrel for easy ink level monitoring
Cons:- Limited to a 1.0 mm medium point, restricting fine detail work
- Assorted ink colors may not match all preferences
Best for: Students, office workers, or anyone needing reliable, smooth ink flow for extensive writing tasks
Not ideal for: Artists or those who prefer fine or varied line widths, since the 1.0 mm point offers limited versatility
- Quantity:60 pens
- Ink Color:Assorted
- Point Size:1.0mm
- Barrel Type:Translucent
- Design:Round, comfortable barrel
Our verdict“This pen pack is ideal for anyone prioritizing dependable, smooth writing over artistic or detailed line work.”
Crayola Colored Pencils (36ct) – Classroom and Art Supplies for Kids & Adults
The Crayola 36-color colored pencil set offers vibrant hues ideal for school projects, coloring books, and casual art. Compared with larger sets like the 144 Count Colored Pencils, this smaller set is perfect for those who want quality over quantity, especially for younger children or beginners. The pre-sharpened, durable pencils glide smoothly and are suitable for a variety of creative activities, though the limited color palette might fall short for more advanced artists requiring extensive blending options. While the set doesn’t emphasize eco-friendliness or specialized features, it provides dependable quality for everyday arts and crafts. This makes it a sensible choice for parents and teachers seeking a compact, reliable art supply for young creators.
Pros:- Vibrant, consistent colors suitable for a variety of artwork
- Pre-sharpened and durable for long-lasting use
- Great for kids, teens, and casual creators
Cons:- Limited to 36 colors, which may not satisfy advanced artists
- No advanced features like blending or eco-friendly materials
- Basic set without additional tools or accessories
Best for: Kids, beginners, or casual artists needing a compact, vibrant set for creative projects
Not ideal for: Professional or serious hobby artists who require a wider range of colors and blending capabilities
- Quantity:36 colored pencils
- Ages:3+
- Features:Pre-sharpened, durable, smooth glide
Our verdict“This set offers reliable, vibrant colors for casual use and young artists, making it perfect for everyday creative activities.”
Rarlan Wood-Cased #2 HB Pencils, Pre-sharpened, 200 Count Bulk Pack
The Rarlan #2 HB wood pencils are designed for practicality and economy, especially suited for classrooms and offices where large quantities of reliable writing instruments are needed. Compared with the BIC Xtra Smooth Bright Edition Mechanical Pencils, these are non-mechanical, pre-sharpened, and do not require refilling, though they lack the convenience of erasability or adjustable line width. The hexagon shape minimizes rolling, which is beneficial in busy environments, and the high-quality wood makes sharpening straightforward. On the downside, their all-black design and lack of additional features make them less appealing for creative or artistic tasks. This pack makes the most sense for bulk buyers who prioritize immediate usability and durability over specialty features.
Pros:- Pre-sharpened for instant use, saving time
- High-quality wood for easy sharpening
- Bulk pack offers cost savings and ample supply
Cons:- Limited to black color only, restricting creative options
- No erasers or additional features included
- Primarily suited for writing, not art projects
Best for: Classroom teachers, office workers, or bulk buyers needing straightforward, reliable writing tools
Not ideal for: Artists or students seeking pencils with specialized features or a broader range of tip sizes
- Writing Instrument Form:Graphite Pencil
- Ink Color:Black
- Drill Point:graphite
- Additional Features:Pre-sharpened
- Line Size:0.5mm
- Materials & Care:Wood
Our verdict“This bulk pack is best for those who need dependable, ready-to-use pencils in large quantities for everyday writing tasks.”
Crayola Crayons Bulk (24 Packs)
This set of 24 boxes of Crayola crayons offers an excellent solution for schools, community centers, or art classes that need to equip multiple students at once. Compared with smaller, retail packs like the 36-count colored pencils, this bulk pack provides a more extensive variety of colors at a lower cost per unit. However, the bulk packaging makes individual handling less convenient, and it lacks specialty shades that might appeal to more advanced young artists. The crayons are durable, safe, and produce vibrant colors, making them ideal for creative projects and classroom activities. While not suitable for solo artists or those seeking specific shades, this pack ensures a wide color palette for large groups or ongoing projects.
Pros:- Includes a large quantity of crayons suitable for classrooms and group projects
- Vibrant color assortment enhances creativity and learning
- Durable and safe for young children
Cons:- Bulk packaging may be cumbersome for individual or small-scale use
- Limited to basic colors without specialty shades or metallic finishes
Best for: Schools, art programs, or families with multiple children needing a large supply of basic crayons
Not ideal for: Individual artists or users looking for specialty or metallic crayon shades, due to limited color variety and bulk packaging
- Number of Boxes:24
- Crayon Count per Box:24
- Colors Included:Apricot, Black, Blue, Bluetiful, Blue Green, Blue Violet, Brown, Carnation Pink, Cerulean, Gray, Green, Green Yellow, Indigo, Orange, Red, Red Orange, Red Violet, Scarlet, Violet, Violet Red, White, Yellow, Yellow Green, Yellow Orange
- Suitable Age:3+
Our verdict“This set is perfect for large groups or classrooms needing a cost-effective, vibrant crayon supply, but less ideal for individual artists seeking specialty colors.”
How We Picked
We evaluated these products based on their price per unit, quality, durability, and versatility. Our goal was to identify options that offer the best value without sacrificing essential features like performance and reliability. We prioritized bulk packs for their cost-effectiveness, but also included trusted brands that maintain quality at lower prices. The ranking reflects a mix of affordability, usability, and brand reputation, helping shoppers find supplies suitable for different needs and budgets.Factors to Consider When Choosing Discount School Supplies
When selecting discount school supplies, it’s important to consider not just the initial price but also how well the supplies meet your needs. Factors such as durability, brand reputation, and suitability for different activities can significantly impact value. Understanding these aspects helps avoid common pitfalls, like buying cheap supplies that break easily or overpaying for brand-name items you don’t need. Balancing cost with quality ensures you get the best supplies for the price, especially during back-to-school sales.Quality and Durability
Cheap supplies often sacrifice durability, leading to frequent replacements and increased long-term costs. Look for brands that are known for sturdy construction, like Crayola or BIC, especially if supplies will see daily use. For students who need reliable tools for homework and projects, investing a little more upfront can save money later. Keep in mind that overly cheap supplies may frustrate kids and diminish their creative or academic experience.
Pack Size and Quantity
Buying in bulk can dramatically lower the per-item cost, making it ideal for families with multiple children or classrooms. However, larger packs may include supplies that go unused, leading to waste. Consider your actual needs—if your child only uses a few pencils or crayons regularly, smaller packs could reduce clutter and excess. Always balance the benefits of savings against storage space and actual usage.
Brand Reputation
Established brands like Crayola and BIC often deliver more consistent quality, especially for color payoff and writing smoothness. Cheaper, lesser-known brands might save money initially but can fall short in performance or durability. For art supplies, color vibrancy and pigment quality matter. For writing tools, smoothness and comfort are key. Stick to reputable brands if your priority is dependable performance over mere cost savings.
Versatility and Usability
Some supplies, like mechanical pencils, reduce waste and provide consistent line widths, which can be helpful for homework and artistic projects. Others, like crayons or traditional pencils, are simple but may require frequent sharpening or replacement. Consider how the supplies will be used—if your child is into art, investing in quality colored pencils might be worthwhile. For everyday schoolwork, basic pens and pencils are usually sufficient and more economical.
Sale Timing and Price Fluctuations
Prices on school supplies can vary widely depending on the season and retailer promotions. Shopping early during back-to-school sales can lead to significant savings, but waiting for clearance events later in the year might also snag good deals. Avoid impulse purchases during peak shopping times—compare prices online and in-store to maximize savings. Being flexible with brands and pack sizes can also help you get the best bang for your buck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cheaper school supplies as good as name brands?
In many cases, generic or store brands can perform just as well as name brands for everyday school use. However, for art supplies, color vibrancy and durability often vary, so trusted brands like Crayola may be worth the extra cost. For writing instruments like pens and pencils, many off-brand options provide comparable quality, but it’s important to read reviews. Ultimately, balancing price and quality depends on how long the supplies need to last and their intended use.
Should I buy supplies in bulk or smaller packs?
Bulk purchasing generally offers the best value per item, especially if you have multiple children or are preparing for a classroom. However, larger packs might include supplies that go unused or are unnecessary for your child’s needs. If space or budget is tight, smaller packs can help you avoid waste while still saving money compared to buying individual items. Consider your actual usage patterns before committing to bulk buys.
How do I choose the best supplies for art projects on a budget?
For art supplies, quality matters more because pigment richness and color consistency impact the final work. Crayola remains a strong option for affordable, reliable colored pencils and crayons. Cheaper brands might produce less vibrant colors or break easily. When shopping for art, look for packs with a good variety of colors and durable leads or pigments, which can make a noticeable difference in the creative process.
Is it better to buy supplies early or wait for discounts?
Buying early during back-to-school sales often results in the best overall savings, especially when shopping at large retailers or warehouse clubs. Waiting for clearance sales later in the year can also be cost-effective, but supplies may be limited or out of stock. Planning ahead allows you to compare prices, avoid rush purchases, and stock up on essentials before prices spike closer to the start of school.
What should I avoid when buying discount school supplies?
Avoid supplies that seem too cheap or lack brand recognition, as they might be low quality or break easily. Steer clear of pack sizes that are too large if you don’t need that many supplies, as this can lead to waste. Also, beware of impulse buys during sales—stick to your list and needs to get the best value. Reading reviews beforehand can help ensure you’re choosing supplies that will last and perform well.
