The Best Pencil Cases

In the wonderful world of pens and pencils, pencil cases don’t get the attention they deserve. They bring order to your stationery collection while keeping it safe and pristine. Whether you’re a student, artist, working professional, or just need an all-around stellar pencil case, watch our videos or keep reading to see our recommendations.

Top Recommendation

Lihit Lab Book Style Pen Case

The Lihit Lab Book Style Pen Case features several compartments for organization.

The Lihit Lab Book Style Pen Case is incredibly versatile: it has several compartments of various sizes and can hold about 23 pens. It’s shaped like a book with one middle flap that you can flip back and forth. The nylon fabric is easy to clean, and there are compartments for lead containers, calculators, and pocket notebooks to keep your supplies organized. We recommend this pen case to absolutely anyone, including students, office workers, and more.

Also Consider: Nomadic's PE-09 Pencil Case

Our other top choice is the lightweight and durable Nomadic’s PE-09 Pencil Case. It has a spacious main compartment that can hold plenty of writing instruments. A small pocket inside the compartment is suitable for smaller items that tend to get buried, such as erasers or small sticky notes. A velcro flap on the outside protects a zippered pocket to store items that you need quick access to.

Table of Contents

Pencil Case Characteristics

Pencil Case Types

Book Style Pencil Case

Like their names suggest, book style cases cases open like books for easier access to items.

Like their names suggest, book style cases open like books for easier access to items.

Book style cases are typically deep and high capacity, with a “hinge” along the side. They generally have an assortment of compartments and pockets. Many, like the Lihit Lab Book Style Pen Case, have a central flap that can be turned like a page. Book style cases are ideal for those who want to carry a lot of supplies, but they can be somewhat bulky.

Roll Up Pencil Case

Roll up cases provide security as well as visibility.

Roll up cases (also known as wrap cases) are usually made with softer materials like cloth or leather. They tend to have great visibility, making it easy to find the tool you’re looking for. Most roll up cases have flaps to keep pens from falling out and scratching each other. Some, like the Global Art Pencil Roll Up Case, have elastic loops for individual pens and pencils.

Standing Pencil Case

Conserve desk space by using standing cases.

Standing pencil cases like the Sun-Star Delde Slide are basically pouches that can be converted into pencil holders. They have small footprints, while still managing to keep anything inside visible. Students with limited desk space will appreciate the multi-functional design of a standing case.

Tray Pencil Case

Tray pencil cases provide easy access to your writing instruments.

Like their names suggest, these pencil cases can be opened up like a tray. They’re convenient for artists and students alike to use as they work. As an example, the Kokuyo C2 Tray Pencil Case provides clear visibility and easy access to the tools inside. When your work is finished, tray pencil cases transform back into closed containers or pouches that can be carried with you anywhere.

Zippered Pouch

The zippered pouch is the most recognizable pencil case format.

Zippered pouches are classic, recognizable pen cases. They can be as simple as single pouches with zip closures like Lihit Lab Smart Fit PuniLabo Zipper Pouches, or more complex like Lihit Lab Smart Fit Double Pen Cases which feature multiple compartments. Because they keep everything securely enclosed, they’re highly portable and versatile.

Pencil Case Materials

Hard Cases

Hard cases like Velos Tin Pen Cases have some pros and cons for storing writing tools.

Hard cases are typically made of metal or plastic and protect your pens from external forces. For example, throwing a hard case in your backpack could result in scratches to the case, but not to the pens inside. However, hard cases typically lack padding on the inside, which means that pens can rattle around and damage each other. We recommend these cases if your stationery collection largely consists of inexpensive gel pens and highlighters.

Soft Cases

Soft cases, such as Lihit Lab Smart Fit PuniLabo Stand Pen Cases, keep items inside and outside safe.

Soft cases can be made from leather, canvas, silicone, or other materials. Because they can be made from so many different things, they can vary greatly in shape and structure. Both the Sun-Star Delde Smand and Lihit Lab Smart Fit PuniLabo Stand are soft cases, but they’re noticeably different from each other in terms of looks and functions.

All soft cases are relatively protective and won’t scratch pens and pencils stored inside. They can be flexible and fit inside a packed bag or even stretch slightly to accommodate more items. Pencil cases made from silicone or PVC are easy to clean, so accidental marks or spills can be wiped off. Fabric cases are harder to clean, and some (like the Saki P-661) offer less protection.

Top Recommendations by Application

The Best Artist Pencil Case: Global Art Pencil Roll Up Case

The Global Art Pencil Roll Up Case protects your tools and allows for easy access to your items.

Artists usually carry their tools with them wherever they go—after all, who knows when inspiration may strike? The Global Art Pencil Roll Up Case holds up to 36 wooden pencils, giving artists ample space for their colorful tools. A zipped pocket inside the case can hold accessories like small sharpeners (we recommend the Uni Color Pencil Sharpener) or erasers. The sturdy canvas material protects the contents inside, and the roll-up design is conveniently compact. The elastic snap closure stretches around the case and keeps it securely closed no matter how stuffed the case is. Global Art also makes Flat Pencil Cases, some of which can hold up to 120 pencils!

Also Consider: Velos Tin Pen Case

The versatile and lightweight Velos Tin Pen Case is a good alternative for artists who use a variety of media. The pen case comes in three sizes: Flat, Large, and Wide. The Flat size can store up to six writing utensils and an eraser, while the Large can store a set of brush pens. The capacious Wide case can hold all the items needed for a travel watercolor kit, including travel brushes, watercolor pans, and a 4” x 6” block of watercolor paper.

The Best Craft Case: Lihit Lab Alclea Triangle Pen Case

Lihit Lab Alclea Triangle Pen Cases are perfect for crafters.

Perfect for crafters, the stylish and spacious Lihit Lab Alclea can fit pens, washi tapes, scissors, and more. It’s made of antimicrobial PVC that’s easy to clean with a damp paper towel. It has a clear front panel so you can see the contents inside. Two small pockets inside the front panel are suitable for smaller accessories. There’s also a back pocket where you can store your smartphone and still operate its touchscreen, handy for when you need inspiration or background music as you craft. Be sure to check out other Alclea Cases in matching colors.

Also Consider: Kokuyo Piiip Tool Pen Case

Kokuyo Piiip Tool Pen Cases aren’t just adorable: they’re also an excellent storage option for crafters. You can organize and display your favorite supplies in the same pencil case thanks to its large window pockets and removable fabric insert. Try keeping items you use the most in the clear pockets so they’re easy to find. Other supplies like glue sticks and erasers can go in the fabric insert to reduce visual clutter. We recommend the Large case because it can hold about 25 pens, but the Flat case is a good alternative for those who have a smaller craft supply collection.

The Best Fountain Pen Case: Lihit Lab Smart Fit Actact Compact Pen Case

The Lihit Lab Smart Fit Actact Compact Pen Case has a soft fabric lining on one side that keeps your pens from getting scratched.

If you plan to carry your fountain pens with you, it’s important to have a case that keeps your pens safe—especially if they’re on the pricier side. The Lihit Lab Smart Fit Actact Compact Pen Case is a great option for fountain pen enthusiasts. This book-style case has a soft fabric lining on the right side that keeps your pens from getting scratched. Slide your fountain pens’ clips over the opaque fabric flap so they stay in place. You can use the mesh pocket on the left side to hold items like pocket notebooks or cartridges.

Also Consider: Kaweco Standard Leather Case

Those who feel stressed even thinking about their pens touching each other should consider the Kaweco Standard Leather Case instead. The single pen case safely holds your favorite fountain pen (if you can only carry one!), while the two- and three-pen cases have felt flaps inside to keep your pens from bumping together. No matter which you choose, each case can fit pens about 5.2 inches in length. If your love of the Kaweco Sport means you have multiples, you can try the Kaweco Sport Leather Case, which is made to fit these pocket-friendly pens.

The Best Minimalist Pencil Case: Lihit Lab Bloomin Tray Pen Case

The Lihit Lab Bloomin Tray Pen Case opens wide to reveal a tray.

If all you need is a simple pouch, we recommend the Bloomin Tray Pen Case. It only holds about fifteen pens, but minimalists don’t need their pen cases to carry much! When unzipped all the way, the Bloomin turns into a tray so you can see everything that’s inside. If you don’t want to unzip it all the way, two tabs near the bottom provide a stopping point for the zipper, allowing the case to open just enough so you can grab something quickly. It’s made of silicone, so it’s pleasant to touch and easy to clean. This case is part of Lihit Lab’s Bloomin Series, and you can find matching folders and files in the collection.

Also Consider: Point Pen Pouch

We also like the Point Pen Pouch, which is a convenient and hassle-free way to carry three everyday essential writing tools. Just place them in the three slots of this portable pen case and you’re ready to go. It can be stored in a bag, bag organizer, or even a shirt pocket. The case is made from PVC, which is easy to clean and highly durable. The biggest challenge of using this pen holder is deciding on which three pens to put in it!

The Best Office Pencil Case: Pilot Ballistic Zest Pen Case

The Pilot Ballistic Zest features a pen roll as well as a pocket for storage.

The classy Pilot Ballistic Zest Pen Case is a pen roll that can store up to five writing instruments in its slots. It snaps securely shut with a button fastener, and a protective flap at the top keeps the pens from falling out or scratching each other when they’re rolled up. An outer zipper pocket provides additional space for extra pens and other items like USB flash drives, erasers, or small sticky notes.

Also Consider: TRAVELER'S COMPANY BRASS PEN CASE

Alternatively, try the TRAVELER'S COMPANY BRASS PEN CASE. Made of durable brass, the case has a lovely sheen and feels substantial. The lid comes off completely and snaps shut securely. It adds a luxurious touch to your office desk while keeping your pens safe. The case isn’t padded, so items stored inside will rattle around if used as a travel case. We recommend keeping it at your desk so you don’t risk damaging your pens.

The Best Pencil Case for School: Lihit Lab Smart Fit Double Pen Case

The compartments in the Lihit Lab Smart Fit Double Pen Case keep items organized for students.

The Lihit Lab Smart Fit Double Pen Case can hold pretty much everything a student needs. This pen case has two main compartments: a zipper pouch on one side and a lie-flat organizer on the other. You can store rulers and highlighters in the zipper pouch and regularly used gel pens and other tools in the organizer’s pockets. The Smart Fit Double Pen Case comes in two sizes—Small and Large—both of which can hold at least 20 pens.

Also Consider: Kokuyo C2 Tray Pencil Case

We’re also big fans of the Kokuyo C2 Tray Pencil Case, which is a good option for students who don’t want to fuss with different compartments. This pencil case unzips into a large tray that lets you see most of your supplies at a single glance. You can use the button strap on the end to attach the case to the handle of a backpack or tote bag so it’s easy to grab when you need it.

The Best Tech Pencil Case: Sonic Sma Sta Standing Pen Case

The Sonic Sma Sta Standing Pen Case doubles as a pen and phone stand when unzipped.

The innovative Sonic Sma Sta transforms into both a pen and phone stand! Once you unzip it and fold back the top, magnets keep it attached to the rear of the pen case to create a sturdy base. The front part of the case has a slot to place your smartphone or a small memo pad for easy access, and you can still see the contents of the case, too.

Also Consider: Sun-Star Delde Smand Pen Case

The Sun-Star Delde Smand is another pen case that doubles as a phone holder. It was designed with the input of tech-loving middle and high schoolers and features a magnetic flap with grippy rubber treads on the inside. Fold down the flap and prop up your phone against the pen case, and the treads will keep your phone from sliding around. The zipper pouch can hold about twenty pens and it comes in a variety of charming colors.

The Best Travel Pencil Case: Penco CarryTite Case

Hook-and-loop fasteners allow the Penco CarryTite Case to transform into a pouch.

Our pick for travelers is the Penco CarryTite Case. Though it looks rather humble, don’t be fooled: its design features a “dual action flap” with hook-and-loop fasteners that allow it to transform into a larger pouch for more storage capacity. When you don’t need the extra space, you can fold the flap over and the case shrinks down to the size of a typical pencil pouch. The placement of the hook-and-loop fasteners keeps your items secure in both pencil case or pouch form. The CarryTite is made of water-resistant tarpaulin that will protect your supplies from the elements.

Also Consider: Kokuyo NeoCritz Worxus Pencil Case

If the CarryTite Case looks a little too rugged for your taste, consider the Kokuyo NeoCritz Worxus instead. This combination pen stand, pouch, and tray looks more like a typical pencil case and has a spacious main compartment. It also includes a pen loop, zippered pocket for smaller items, and three open pockets for supplies like sticky notes and correction tapes. When unzipped, the top of the pencil case can be folded over for easier access to your supplies.

Top Recommendations by Type

The Best Cute Pencil Case: Lihit Lab Smart Fit PuniLabo Zipper Pouch

The Lihit Lab Smart Fit PuniLabo Zipper Pouch features a cute animal design.

How adorable are these PuniLabo Zipper Pouches? They feature cute designs of animals waving at you. The silicone material is soft to the touch and easy to clean. The zipper opens two sides of the pouch, giving you plenty of space to insert or take out items. We’re partial to the pouch version of this case because the flat shape makes it easy to store, but if you prefer a more traditional pen case design, the PuniLabo Pen Cases are just as charming.

The Best Eco-Friendly Pencil Case: Blue Q Pencil Case

The delightful designs of Blue Q Pencil Cases add joy to your stationery storage.

Known for their fun, offbeat sense of humor, Blue Q Pencil Cases add a dose of cheekiness to your everyday carry. Their simple, one-pocket design is great for carrying items like cosmetics or tech accessories in addition to your writing utensils. These plastic pencil cases are made of 95% post-consumer recycled material. They’re easy to clean and durable as well. Don’t forget to check out Blue Q’s Zipper Pouches, which are larger and can hold more items.

The Best Extra Long Pencil Case: Cubix Round Zip Box Pen Case

Two types of storage in the Cubix Round Zip Box Pen Case provide lots of space for your supplies.

It’s hard to find a pencil case long enough to fit Blackwing Pencils and Tombow Dual Brush Pens, both of which are more than 7.5 inches in length. Thankfully, the Cubix Round Zip Box is here to help. Not only is it a high-capacity pencil case with room for 50 pens, it’s also more than long enough to fit oversized writing instruments. The Round Zip Box combines two types of storage into one case: a pen organizer that lies flat when opened, and a large central pouch for storing bulkier items.

The Best Large Pencil Case: Lihit Lab Triple Zipper Book Style Pen Case

The Lihit Lab Triple Zipper Book Style Pen Case has several compartments for storing items of various sizes.

The Lihit Lab Triple Zipper is the high-capacity version of our top pick. Instead of two compartments, this upgraded version has three, so you can easily organize your jumbo-sized collection of pens and pencils. With a variety of different panels, straps, and pockets, you can find a spot for all of your stationery. It holds a whopping 55 pens: more than twice as many as standard pen cases, making it one of the largest pen cases we have at JetPens!

The Best Protective Pencil Case: Sun-Star Guardian Pen Case

The Sun-Star Guardian Pen Case provides protection as well as space for extra-long items.

You probably don’t need a pencil case that can withstand drops from up to two meters in height, but the Sun-Star Guardian Pen Case is sure to keep your favorite writing instruments safe no matter what adventures you undertake. Its durable shell is made from impact-resistant polycarbonate, the same material used in many travel suitcases. The case lies flat, has a central divider to keep your supplies organized, and features a mesh pocket for small items.

The Best Slim Pencil Case: Lihit Lab Flat Type Pen Case

Lihit Lab Flat Type Pen Cases hold surprising amounts of supplies despite their slim sizes.

Perfectly sized for slipping into a bag or backpack, the Lihit Lab Flat Type Pen Case holds a surprising amount of supplies despite its slim size. It opens flat to reveal two large pen pockets and small mesh pockets for accessories. An exterior pocket can hold items like your most-used pen. Two versions are available, one of which is wider and able to hold about a dozen more pens than the standard size.

The Best Standing Pencil Case: Raymay Detecool Pen Case

This Raymay Detecool Pen Case becomes a stand.

The Raymay Detecool is a fantastic standing pen case that also doubles as a pen stand. Simply unzip the flap and secure it to the magnetized back of the case to see all of your pens and accessories. The inner compartments also tilt forward for easy access to your pens. The design is sturdy and well balanced; you don’t have to worry about it toppling over.

The Best Telescoping Pencil Case: Lihit Lab Smart Fit Actact Stand Pen Case

The telescoping Lihit Lab Smart Fit Actact Stand Pen Case transforms quickly and easily into a stand.

The Lihit Lab Smart Fit Actact Stand transforms into a pen cup for your desk—just don’t point it at your face while you do it. Simply press down on the pen case to pop up the bottom of the case. This lifts the inside contents for easier access to your pens and pencils. When it’s time to take the case with you, just pull out the bottom and zip the lid closed. Lihit Lab also makes the Smart Fit PuniLabo Stand Pen Case, which features the same design as the Actact pen cases but in cute animal designs!

The Best Tray Pencil Case: Kamio Japan Paco-Tray Pen Case

The Kamio Japan Paco-Tray Pen Case has three compartments for organization.

Our favorite tray style pen case has to be the Kamio Japan Paco-Tray. Unlike most other tray cases that only have one large compartment, this one opens up to reveal three! It’s perfect for organizing your pens, pencils, and accessories. Magnets keep it open so you don’t have to fuss with it as you work.

More Resources

Conclusion

Portable, convenient, and even fun, a good pencil case is a must-have for any stationery enthusiast. What kind of pencil case do you prefer? Tell us what essentials you carry around with you in the comments below!

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Product Name	Maximum Pen Capacity*	Style	Material	Fits Blackwings / Dual Brushes	Add to Cart
Blue Q Pencil Case	20	Pouch	Plastic	Yes	Add Items to Cart
Cubix Round Zip Box Pen Case	50	Book / Pouch	Polyester	Yes	Add Items to Cart
Global Art Flat Pencil Case	24, 48, 120	Book	Canvas	No	Add Items to Cart
Global Art Pencil Roll Up Case	37	Roll Up	Canvas	No	Add Items to Cart
Kamio Japan Paco-Tray Pen Case	19	Tray	Polyester	No	Add Items to Cart
Kokuyo C2 Tray Pencil Case	10, 16	Tray	Nylon	No	Add Items to Cart
Kokuyo NeoCritz Worxus Pencil Case	20	Pouch / Tray	Polyester	No	Add Items to Cart
Kokuyo Piiip Tool Pen Case	15, 26	Pouch	PVC	No	Add Items to Cart
Lihit Lab Alclea Triangle Pen Case	42	Pouch	PVC	No	Add Items to Cart
Lihit Lab Triple Zipper Book Style Pen Case	55	Book	Polyester	No	Add Items to Cart
Lihit Lab Bloomin Tray Pen Case	15	Tray	Silicone	No	Add Items to Cart
Lihit Lab Flat Type Pen Case	15, 27	Book	Polyester	Yes	Add Items to Cart
Lihit Lab Smart Fit Actact Compact Pen Case	12	Book	Polyester	No	Add Items to Cart
Lihit Lab Smart Fit Actact Stand Pen Case	10	Standing	Silicone	No	Add Items to Cart
Lihit Lab Smart Fit Double Pen Case	20, 25	Book / Pouch	Nylon / Polyester	No (Small), Yes (Large)	Add Items to Cart
Lihit Lab Smart Fit PuniLabo Pen Case	10	Pouch	Silicone	No	Add Items to Cart
Lihit Lab Smart Fit PuniLabo Stand Pen Case	10	Standing	Silicone	No	Add Items to Cart
Lihit Lab Smart Fit PuniLabo Zipper Pouch	32	Pouch	Silicone	No	Add Items to Cart
Nomadic's PE-09 Pencil Case	45	Pouch	Nylon	Yes	Add Items to Cart
Penco CarryTite Case	40	Pouch	PVC	No	Add Items to Cart
Pilot Ballistic Zest Pen Case	15	Pouch / Roll Up	Nylon / Synthetic leather	No	Add Items to Cart
Point Pen Pouch	3	Pouch	PVC	No	Add Items to Cart
Raymay Detecool Pen Case	22	Standing	Polyester	No	Add Items to Cart
Sonic Sma Sta Standing Pen Case	20	Standing	Polyester	No	Add Items to Cart
Sun-Star Delde Smand Pen Case	19	Pouch	Polyester	No	Add Items to Cart
Sun-Star Guardian Pen Case	25	Book	Polycarbonate	Yes	Add Items to Cart
TRAVELER’S COMPANY BRASS PEN CASE	4	Tray	Brass	No	Add to Cart
Velos Tin Pen Case	6, 10, 18	Tray	Tin	No	Add Items to Cart