When it comes to eyeliner, there are a few things you probably look for before committing. A superpigmented [1] colour, long-lasting wear, and smudge-proof formula are essential to creating a look you'll love and for that pencil or marker to earn a permanent spot in your cosmetics bag.
Luckily, POPSUGAR beauty editors have tried dozens of eyeliners throughout their careers and have loads of favourites in gel, liquid [2], and pencil varieties. While the ones on this list are dark, inky black shades, many of them come in a bevy of hues [3].
Ahead, you're sure to find an eyeliner that you'll fall in love with and might even become your long-term pick.
Hourglass Mechanical Gel Eyeliner
The 1.5-mm Hourglass Mechanical Gel Eyeliner [4] ($18) is so thin, you'll be able to get the most precise line you've ever achieved. It's available in five transfer-proof colours, so you'll want to pick it up in every shade.
Benefit Roller Liner Matte Liquid Eyeliner
In one swipe, the Benefit Roller Liner Matte Liquid Eyeliner [5] ($22) will go on as an opaque, ultrablack line that won't fade throughout the day.
Lancome Artliner Precision Point Liquid Eyeliner
The long handle of the Lancome Artliner Precision Point Liquid Eyeliner [6] ($31) makes it easy to grip, allowing even winged-liner novices to perfect that cat eye.
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil
Few liners are as black as the Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil [7] ($22) in Zero. These pencils don't budge, smudge, or fade and are available in seemingly endless shades.
Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
Cat-eye devotees have long favoured the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner [8] ($22) for its long-lasting formula and precise tip.
DHC Liquid Eyeliner EX
The teeny-tiny tip of the DHC Liquid Eyeliner EX [9] ($20) makes getting a sharp line a breeze. It is also water-resistant and won't smear throughout the day.
NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner
For the price of a fancy Starbucks drink, you can enjoy a quality eyeliner like the NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner [10] ($6). The slender brush tip allows you to effortlessly draw on a wing in no time.
Nars Eyeliner Stylo
With one swipe of your Nars Eyeliner Stylo [11] ($28) wand, you'll have a makeup look that won't fade for so long, it's almost magical.
CoverGirl Get in Line Active Eyeliner
Even the most intense HITT workout is no match for the waterproof CoverGirl Get in Line Active Eyeliner [12] ($7). Although it feels lightweight, this formula is heavy-duty.
Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Liner
You won't believe how dark and creamy the black shade of Rimmel Scandaleyes Waterproof Kohl Kajal Liner [13] ($4) goes on. It's ideal for the waterline when you're eager for a superdark eye look.
Maybelline Master Precise Skinny Gel Eyeliner Pencil
Precisely defining your eyes is easy with the superfine Maybelline Master Precise Skinny Gel Eyeliner Pencil [14] ($6). It's available in black, brown, and charcoal so you can use it for all of your makeup moods.
ColourPop Swerve Liner
The ColourPop Swerve Liner [15] ($6) really won't budge. For only a few dollars, you can order the pigmented formula in a few of the 20 available shades.
Em Cosmetics Felt Tip Eyeliner
Once you try the smooth, beautiful formula of the Em Cosmetics Felt Tip Eyeliner [16] ($21), you may never go back to your ex-liner again. The felt marker makes it easy to control your hand for the perfect line.
MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline Gel Eyeliner
Few makeup glides on smoother than a gel liner, and MAC Pro Longwear Fluidline Gel Eyeliner [17] ($18) is truly the most pigmented. Simply dip your brush into the pot and sweep across your lash line for a superfast look.
Tartiest Double Take Eyeliner
You'll have both an excellent liquid and pencil liner with you when you bring along the travel-size Tartiest Double Take Eyeliner [18] ($12). Plus, both sides are waterproof.
Laura Geller Beauty INKcredible Gel Eyeliner Pencil
The Laura Geller Beauty INKcredible Gel Eyeliner Pencil [19] ($22) slides onto your eyes as smoothly as butter and comes in vivid, no-fade shades like blue and teal.