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We've put together a selection of pencil sharpeners that work especially well with graphite and lead pencils!
7 popular pencil sharpeners for graphite pencils
- M+R Crank Style Sharpener
- Caran d'Ache Sharpening Machine
- M+R Triple Metal Sharpener
- Blackwing One-Step Long Point
- KUM Automatic Long Point
- Dahle Electric Sharpener
- Staedtler Sharpener for Mechanical Pencils
This list includes sharpeners in different styles for different situations. Some are perfect for your desk at home, others fit easily in a bag. We explain what makes each model special and why we like them so much. Whether you're an architect, artist or student, we think you'll find a new favourite sharpener. Or maybe even two?
M+R Crank Style Sharpener
Budget-friendly desktop sharpener
A popular standard crank model that has everything you need: a rubber clamp to protect pencils from marks, a setting for short or long points, and an automatic stop that prevents over-sharpening. Möbius + Ruppert is a family-owned company spanning four generations, specialising in sharpeners and rulers of various kinds.
Caran d'Ache Sharpening Machine
The sharpener that deserves a place on your desk
If you're only going to buy one sharpener in your life, this might just be it. Not only is it stunning to look at, but the sturdy metal construction makes it a long-lasting investment. The adjustable clamp grips pencils of various sizes, and the spiral blade produces a smooth and precise point every time. Once the blade wears out, you can easily replace it. For those who love colour, it comes in a vibrant red shade, while the grey version adds style to any minimalist desk.
M+R Triple Metal Sharpener
A small sharpener with great versatility
The triangular triple sharpener from German brand Möbius + Ruppert features three holes, each with a different function. One acts as a classic sharpener, shaping both the wood and the lead to a medium-length point. The second hole is designed to remove only the wood around the lead, while the third trims just the graphite core. A clever tool for those who want full control over both form and function.
Blackwing One-Step Long Point
Stylish pocket-sized sharpener
A sharpener that is as much a design piece as it is a tool. The Blackwing One-Step Long Point is the obvious choice for those who want to sharpen with both style and precision. Its sturdy body is made of machined aluminium, with a sharp steel blade that produces a long, gently curved point, extra durable and perfect for detailed work. Despite its compact size, the small container holds shavings from up to three sharpenings before it needs emptying. Elegant, precise and extremely pocket-friendly.
All sharpeners from Blackwing →
KUM Automatic Long Point
Sharpener for extra long pencil points
A precision sharpener for engineers, architects, artists and anyone else who needs a long pencil point. In step 1, only the wood is shaved until the lead reaches the automatic stop. Further sharpening is then not possible. The lead now has the correct length for step 2, where it is shaped. The separated sharpening prevents the tip from breaking, and the long sharp point is perfect for detailed graphite drawings. The sharpener also includes a sharpener for lead refills up to 3.5 mm.
All sharpeners from KUM →
Dahle Electric Sharpener
Sharpener for frequent use
A world-class sharpener, if you ask us. Say goodbye to tired hands and uneven tips with the electric sharpener from Dahle. With rubber pads underneath, it stands firmly on your desk, ready for both intense workdays and creative sessions. You can adjust the tip shape according to pencil thickness, making it ideal for different types of graphite pencils. All you need is a standard wall socket (230 V) and the sharpener takes care of the rest.
All sharpeners from Dahle →
Staedtler Lead Pointer
Sharpener for all your mechanical pencils
At the top of the sharpener are two small holes. The one on the left gives a sharper point, suitable for drawing. The one on the right gives a more rounded point, suitable for writing. These two small holes help you adjust the lead to the correct length for each point type before sharpening. To sharpen the tip itself, insert the lead into the large hole and rotate the pencil clockwise, just like stirring a cup of coffee. The lead spins against a toothed wheel inside the container and sharpens to a perfect point. The sharpener has an automatic stop to prevent over-sharpening.
All sharpeners from Staedtler →
We compare pencil sharpeners for graphite pencils
Which sharpener is right for you? We compare some of our favourites side by side so you don't have to guess, and can find the one that sharpens best for your way of creating or writing.
| Model | Sharpener type | Shavings container | Pencil diameter | Auto stop | Replaceable blade/helix | Includes lead pointer | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| M+R Crank Style Sharpener | Desktop model | Manual crank | Yes | 8 – 11.5 mm | Yes | No | No |
| Caran d'Ache Sharpening Machine | Desktop model | Manual crank | Yes | 4 – 10 mm | No | Yes | No |
| M+R Triple Metal Sharpener | Handheld model | Manual | No | Up to 8 mm | No | Yes | No |
| Blackwing One-Step Long Point | Handheld model | Manual | Yes | Up to 8 mm | No | Yes | No |
| KUM Automatic Long Point | Handheld model | Manual | Yes | 8.2 mm – 11.2 mm | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Dahle Electric Sharpener | Desktop model | Electric | Yes | 8 – 11 mm | Yes | Yes | No |
| Staedtler Lead Pointer | Handheld model | Manual | Yes | 2 mm mechanical leads | Yes | No | Only |
Scroll to the right →
Want to learn more about sharpener types, blade shapes or which features really make a difference? Our sharpener guide goes in depth.
Things to consider when choosing a sharpener (quick tips)
A few quick buying tips to help you make the right choice.
Pencil size
All the sharpeners we’ve recommended in this post work for standard-size graphite pencils. However, some pencils come in jumbo sizes. These require a jumbo sharpener. The product description will tell you if the sharpener works with jumbo pencils.If you use different types of pencils
Many artists use several types of pencils in their creative work. Graphite pencils are very durable and can handle hard pressure and long points. But some coloured pencils and other types, such as charcoal and pastel pencils, have softer cores. These may break if sharpened to extra long points or with aggressive crank or electric sharpeners. Read our sharpener guide to find the right sharpener for these mediums.
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