Tags are one of, if not the most iconic pillars of graffiti. So choosing the best tools possible is essential for guaranteeing your graffiti name stands out.
But with so many different markers available, knowing which ones are the best for graffiti isn’t easy. Especially if you’re new to the game.
Don’t stress, you’ve come to the right place.
Here’s a complete list of our 7 best markers for graffiti. Plus, some extra info on what to know before you cop graffiti markers.
Stick around till the end for some expert tips and tricks too.
After you’re done, check out our list of the best spray paint to go alongside your new graff pens.
Contents
Top 7 Best Markers for Graffiti
Let’s get straight into it.
From mop-style markers to solid paint sticks, here’s a rundown of the best graffiti markers you can cop right now.
1. Top Pick: Krink K-60 Paint Marker
If you want to hit clean, smooth tags with one of the best paint markers in the game, the KRINK K-60 is our #1 choice as the best overall marker for graffiti.
Created by NY-based graffiti artist KR, the KRINK K-60 was specifically designed as a solution for graffiti writers to produce the most vibrant tags on the streets.
With an easy-to-control valve for drips and a durable 15mm round nib, the K-60 flows perfectly on smooth surfaces whilst also being able to handle some rougher surfaces too.
The KRINK K-60 comes in a range of over 15 colors, so there’s one for every graffiti style.
I’m a big fan of the simple black and white colors because they work perfectly on both light and dark surfaces. These two makers combined make for a great tagging combo, as you’ll be able to write on any colored surface.
But if you want to add some vibrancy and flair to your work, the silver and red colors are good options for creating some of the most eye-catching tags on the streets.
Just make sure to shake the marker well for the best results as the pigment will naturally separate.
Luckily the Krink K-60 contains a mixing ball inside the marker, which makes combining the pigment easier. Especially when you’re on the go.
To summarise, is the KRINK K-60 the cheapest graffiti marker? Not quite.
But in my experience, you can make this marker last a very long time, depending on how much you’re using it. Remember: if you’re squeezing it for super drippy tags, you’ll go through it much quicker.
If you’re looking for the best all-round graffiti marker available right now, there’s really no other competition.
VIEW ON OTHER VENDORS:
Blick Art (US)
Graff City (UK)
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| + Highly pigmented for maximum opacity | – Kinda expensive |
| + Smooth, easy to control valve | – Can be messy |
| + Permanent and vibrant paint formula | |
| + Easy to refill |
2. Uni Paint PX-30 Marker
Since the early 2000’s the Uni Paint PX-30 has been a go-to marker for graffiti artists across the globe – easily making it one of the most iconic graffiti markers out there.
Containing a highly pigmented permanent formula, plus a durable 8mm chisel tip, the Uni Paint PX-30 takes the spot as our best chisel tip marker for graffiti.
The 8mm chisel tip is easily one of the best things about this marker. It can be used to create wider tags at an angle, or skinner tags if angled on the top of the marker.
This makes it a versatile option for tags as you’ll be able to squeeze into small spaces, whilst also being able to go big if you need to.
The PX-30 also comes in a wide range of colors. Out of them all, I recommend picking up the silver version, as it’s by far one of the best silver markers out there.
However, one downside to the Uni Paint PX-30 is the smell. The formula has quite a strong odour, especially indoors.
Although this is to be expected with a permanent paint formula. Just something to keep in mind if you’re hitting tags in an enclosed space like a bathroom stall.
If you want to catch old-school silver tags that pop off any surface, you need to grab a Uni Paint PX-30.
VIEW ON OTHER VENDORS:
Spray Planet (US)
GreatArt (UK)
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| + Highly opaque, vivid paint formula | – Fairly strong odour |
| + Versatile 8mm chisel tip | |
| + Permanent | |
| + Replaceable nib and refillable |
3. Pentel White Bullet Tip Marker
For a graffiti marker that’s compact and powerful with a durable bullet tip nib, the Pentel White takes the top spot as our best bullet tip marker for graffiti.
This is another very well-known marker used by graffiti writers across the world. Its small size makes it easy to conceal, whilst also having a super high pigmented solution that makes tags pop off dark surfaces.
Its pump action design means the tip needs to be saturated well to get the best results. So be sure to shake well and saturate the nib in between uses.
Something I like about this marker in particular is that over time, the nib will naturally get wider with use as it wears down.
This works well for writers who want bigger tags. To fast-track the process, use something like a pair of scissors to flare the nib and make it wider.
There’s not much more to say other than it’s a very good choice for graffiti artists. And very easy to carry around.
It’s cheap too, so the Pentel White is a no-brainer for any graffiti marker collection. Plus, it can be easily refilled with paint or ink once you run it dry.
VIEW ON OTHER VENDORS:
Infamy Art (US)
Graff City (UK)
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| + Small body makes it easy to conceal | – Strong odour |
| + Perfect for dark surfaces | |
| + Cheap | |
| + Replaceable tip and refillable pen |
4. Sakura Solid Paint Marker
Now I’ll move on to solid paint markers, which are a must for every graffiti artist’s marker selection.
And there’s no better choice than the Sakura Solid Marker, which comes in as our best solid paint marker for graffiti.
Think of a solid paint marker like a professional crayon. It contains a concentrated paint formula which means it can write on pretty much everything without the need for a nib.
This makes it an incredibly versatile choice for graffiti writers. In fact, the Sakura Solid has achieved cult status in the graffiti world – with brands like Hand Mixed using them to create colourful split markers for graffiti.
Two major benefits of solid paint markers are that they don’t smell and they are way less messy than traditional liquid paint markers.
As you can imagine, these benefits come in handy for graffiti writers.
When used at different angles, paint sticks are also great for producing both wide and skinny tags. Apply more pressure for big tags, and less pressure if you want to squeeze into a smaller space or produce finer lines.
Sakura produces its solid markers in a range of colors too. For the most versatile option, I recommend going for the white color as it works great on smooth dark surfaces.
VIEW ON OTHER VENDORS:
Blick Art (US)
Graff City (UK)
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| + Works great on smooth surfaces | – Less vibrant than liquid paint markers |
| + No odour unlike liquid paint markers | – May struggle on rougher surfaces |
| + No mess | – Can’t be refilled |
| + Loads of colors to choose from |
5. Molotow 660PI Marker
For graffiti artists looking for super wide tags, the Molotow 660PI takes the spot as our best wide-tip graffiti marker.
Featuring a replaceable 15mm nib and a permanent ink-based formula, the 660PI is guaranteed to pack a punch in the streets.
Like many other graffiti markers, it uses a pump action valve which allows for the tip to be well saturated. This means tags are super vivid in color and pop off smooth surfaces.
As it contains ink, just be careful when carrying it around as the formula will stain if it leaks. Keep a marker like this in a plastic bag if you want to keep your clothes clean. No guarantees though.
If your tagging style is big and wide, the Molotow 660PI is a graffiti marker you need to try.
VIEW ON OTHER VENDORS:
Bombing Science (US)
Jackson’s Art (UK)
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| + Range of colors to choose from | – Difficult to use for beginners |
| + Permanent ink formula for hard-to-buff tags | – Not great on rough surfaces |
| + Super wide nib means big, bold tags | – Can be messy |
| + Highly pigmented for vivid results |
6. Uni Paint PX-20 Marker
For graffiti writers who want a cheap but powerful marker, the Uni Paint PX-20 takes the crown as our best budget paint marker for graffiti.
The PX-20 is the little brother of the Uni Paint PX-30. Instead of an 8mm chisel tip, it features a 2.2-2.8mm bullet tip which is great for smaller tags.
Its permanent paint formula sticks to most surfaces perfectly, whilst the durable nib allows for smooth tags with excellent flow.
I recommend picking up the white and chrome colors of the PX-20 because they pop off dark colored surfaces really well.
The PX-20 is also one of the best markers for graffiti stickers. So if you’re into sticker bombing, this is a very good marker to choose.
For a cheap paint marker that produces great results, the Uni Paint PX-20 is essential for every graffiti marker collection.
Like other paint markers, be sure to shake well before use as it can be quite watery if the paint isn’t mixed properly. Luckily it contains a mixing ball, which helps.
VIEW ON OTHER VENDORS:
Spray Planet (US)
GreatArt (UK)
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| + High-quality, opaque formula | – Quite a strong odour |
| + Versatile nib for squeezing in small spaces | – Not great for big tags |
| + Compact size makes it easy to conceal | |
| + Replaceable tip and refillable body |
7. Grog Squeezer 10mm BPI
If the KRINK K-60 is out of budget but you still want a high quality squeezable marker, the Grog 10mm Squeezer takes the top spot as our best budget graffiti mop.
Containing Grog’s signature Buff Proof Ink (BPI), the Grog Squeezer is a highly permanent graffiti marker that’s perfect for creating tags that last.
The 10mm nib is a great size too as it’s wide enough for big tags, whilst also allowing writers to fit in smaller spaces.
Beware, however, that because of the ink-based formula, squeezing this marker hard will result in serious drips.
Make sure to squeeze it lightly for controllable drips, or don’t squeeze it at all for no drips. Generally speaking, an ink-based mop marker like this is harder to control compared to a paint-based marker as the formula is much thinner.
Also be careful of the marker leaking, as its formula is incredibly potent. Keep it in a sealed plastic bag when you’re not using it if you want to be safe.
For tags that are guaranteed to last, the Grog 10m Squeezer is a good cost-effective option for any graffiti writer.
VIEW ON OTHER VENDORS:
Spray Planet (US)
Graff City (UK)
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| + Potent buff-proof ink formula | – Can be messy to use |
| + Versatile 10mm nib | – Can run out quickly if squeezed hard during use |
| + Great for drippy tags | |
| + Replaceable tip and refillable body |
What to know before buying graffiti markers
Now you’ve seen our rundown of the best graffiti markers to add to your collection, here’s a bit more info on the different types of markers available.
Stick around until the end of the post as I share some of my top tips for using graffiti markers.
4 main types of graffiti markers
Different graffiti writers prefer different types of markers. And that’s fine – it’s all down to their preferred style of graffiti.
To help you make the best decision for your style, here are four of the main types of markers graffiti writers typically go for:
1. Mop style markers
Graffiti mops have become famous ever since graffiti writers began making their own D.I.Y mop markers out of bingo dabbers and shoe polish bottles.
Mop-style markers typically have a round nib between 5-30mm wide and a squeezable body allowing for drippy tags. A perfect example of a mop-style marker is the KRINK K-60.
They can contain both paint and ink-based formulas, so they’re a very versatile choice for graffiti artists.
Overall, mop markers are essential for every graffiti writer’s marker collection. They’re fun to use but can be difficult to control – so they require some practice until tags come out clean.
2. Wide tip markers
Wide-tip graffiti markers are defined by their large, rectangular nibs which are usually around 15mm in width.
These can produce super wide tags, whilst also having the option of creating smaller tags if used at an angle. The Molotow 660PI is a good example of a wide-tip marker designed for graffiti that I recommend trying out.
Wide-tip markers are a great choice for any graffiti artist. Although much like mop markers, they can be hard for beginners to master due to the big nib size.
3. Chisel tip markers
Chisel tip markers have a slightly smaller nib than wide tip markers. And instead of being a flat nib, it’s angled – much like a chisel.
These are a great middle ground between wide-tip and bullet-tip markers as you can make big tags with them, whilst also being able to go small if used at an angle.
Chisel tips can be filled with paint or ink too, which makes them versatile in many situations.
Our favourite chisel tip marker for graffiti is the Uni Paint PX-30. Given the marker’s rich history in graffiti culture because of its vibrant results, it’s a must-cop for every writer.
4. Bullet tip markers
Bullet tip markers are usually the smallest of all graffiti nibs and the most basic. They feature a typical rounded nib – usually between 2-8mm.
For beginners, these are a good choice as they’re very straightforward to use. Plus, they work great on smooth surfaces like metal and glass.
The Pentel White Bullet and the Uni Paint PX-20 are our top choice for graffiti bullet markers.
Paint vs ink vs solid markers
Now you know a bit more about the different types of markers, let’s look at the different kinds of formulas they’re usually filled with.
Certain formulas can be better in different situations so it’s important to know the best times to use each one.
Paint markers
Paint markers are usually the most popular choice for graffiti artists as they produce vivid colors and work very well on most surfaces.
Unlike ink, paint sits on top of a surface instead of seeping into it. This means paint is less permanent compared to ink, but it’s more versatile as it can be used on non-porous surfaces like glass.
Paint markers are also the best option for graffiti stickers because of their glossy finish.
Ink markers
Graffiti markers containing ink have the huge benefit of being very difficult to remove.
This is because ink stains porous surfaces very well, so tags have a much better chance of hanging around – even when someone has tried to clean it off.
Although paint markers can be messy too, ink markers are even more so. Some inks are impossible to remove from clothes and can even stain skin – so be careful using them.
Use ink-based markers on porous surfaces, or in places where you want tags to last.
Solid paint markers
Solid paint markers aren’t as popular as normal paint and ink markers. But they’ve found a place in graffiti culture because of how versatile and easy they are to use.
Solid markers are paint sticks and have a similar feel to crayons. The lack of liquid paint means they’re far less messy to use and they don’t have a strong odour.
Sakura solid markers are by far the most recognisable solid markers for graffiti and are renowned globally for their ease of use and versatility.
Top tips for using graffiti markers
Finally, now you’ve got a good idea of which graffiti markers to pick up, here are a few expert tips for using them.
1. Shake well and saturate the nib
If you’re using a pump action marker filled with paint or ink, it’s important that you shake it well and prime the nib before use.
There’s nothing worse than going to use a marker, only to see a watery mess be left behind. It’s usually because it hasn’t been primed or shaken well.
If you want to leave opaque, crystal clear tags, you must shake the marker well to mix the formula and pump the nib before use so it’s well saturated.
2. Be prepared for leaks and spills
No matter how many precautions you take, you’ll probably experience markers leaking or spilling on you.
Keep your markers in a sealed plastic bag at all times when you’re not using them. But also be prepared if they do leak by not using them whilst wearing your best clothes.
Mop-style, squeezable markers are usually the highest risk for spills and leaks. So keep that in mind when you use them.
3. Be careful when refilling markers
Always refill markers over a sink, outside or somewhere safe.
Graffiti markers usually contain potent formulas. So if you’re refilling a marker over your desk and the formula spills on the carpet, good luck trying to get that out.
Also, be sure that once it’s been refilled the nib is well secured and the body isn’t damaged so that it won’t leak once you go to use it.
Picked up some markers for the streets, but still need some for your blackbook pieces? Check out our list of best markers for blackbook graffiti.
