10 Best Watercolor Paints 2025 in the United States

The Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Paint Set is a solid choice for both beginners and hobbyists looking for quality at a reasonable price. The set includes 12 vibrant 8ml tubes, which cover a good range of colors necessary for various projects. One of its strengths is the good transparency and tinting strength, allowing users to create beautiful washes and layers in their artwork. Additionally, the paint is rated AA and A for lightfastness, meaning your artwork will retain its vibrancy over time, which is a significant plus for any artist.

However, since these paints are categorized as student-grade, they may not meet the expectations of professional artists who prefer higher pigment concentrations and richer hues found in professional-grade paints. The use of less expensive pigments does mean a slight compromise in some color richness compared to premium options.

In terms of form, the paint comes in tubes, which is convenient for mixing and controlling the amount used, especially for those who appreciate the flexibility of squeezing out the desired amount. However, some users might prefer pans for easier portability or storage. This watercolor set is particularly beneficial for artists working on paper and those who are learning the craft, as the user-friendly characteristics and vibrant colors help foster creativity. The Winsor & Newton Cotman set serves well for those looking to explore or enhance their watercolor skills without breaking the bank.

The DANIEL SMITH Extra Fine Watercolor Paint Tube in Burnt Umber is a high-quality option tailored for professional artists. This product is known for its excellent lightfastness, meaning the colors are resistant to fading over time, which is crucial for artwork longevity. The paint is semi-transparent, allowing for layered washes and subtle details.

The tube form makes it convenient for mixing custom shades and controlling the amount of paint used, which is ideal for detailed work and large projects alike. For those looking for a broad palette, DANIEL SMITH offers an extensive range of over 240 colors, including unique and mineral-based options like the PrimaTek series. This specific Burnt Umber shade is appreciated for its warm, rich brown tone, which can be mixed to create a variety of effects.

However, it is worth noting that the price point may be higher compared to student-grade paints, which might not be suitable for beginners or casual hobbyists. Additionally, the semi-opaque quality may not be preferable for those seeking completely transparent washes. The tube contains 15ml of paint, which is a standard size for professional-grade watercolor tubes. This paint is best suited for serious artists who value high-quality materials and a wide color range for their watercolor paintings.

The Daniel Smith Extra Fine Watercolor in Ultramarine Blue is a strong choice for both amateur and professional artists. This paint comes in a convenient 15ml tube, making it easy to use and store. One of its standout features is its exceptional lightfastness, ensuring that your artwork will last over time without fading. The Ultramarine Blue shade is known for its cooler and bluer tone compared to the more saturated French Ultramarine, which may appeal to artists looking for a unique hue.

In terms of color range, Daniel Smith offers an impressive selection with over 240 colors, including unique options made from minerals. This vast range allows artists to explore various creative avenues and find the specific shades they need for their projects. The paint is also transparent and has medium staining properties, which can be beneficial for layering and achieving depth in watercolor techniques.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. For novice painters, the price point may be on the higher side compared to student-grade watercolors. While the quality is outstanding, beginners might find it challenging to control the more intense colors. Additionally, the granulating nature of Ultramarine Blue can be less appealing for those who prefer smoother washes.