Recently, I’ve found out that some people don’t quite understand the difference between the markers from the same brand. As a result, they become disappointed because they don’t get what they expected. There is no exception even to well-known brands such as Copic. That is why I spent more than 42 hours inspecting two lines of media. Thus, you are welcome to discover their differences in the special review devoted to Copic Original vs Sketch markers.
Comparison Table: Copic Original vs Copic Sketch
Don’t be in a hurry to dive into a text full of facts. Take a look at the table first so you can distinguish these two series and draw your own conclusions. Besides, it will help you to compare their main features.
| Copic Original | Copic Sketch | |
|---|---|---|
| Review | | |
| Amount | 12-piece set CG, NG, TG, WG, 36, 72-piece color set A, B, and C | 12, 24, 36, 72-piece color set A, B, C, D, and E |
| Available Colors | 214 | 358 |
| Dimensions | 5.62” long | 5.8’’ long |
| Tip / Nib | Chisel/bullet | Chisel/brush |
| Refillable | Yes | Yes |
| Shape and Comfort | Square barrel Comfortable | Oval shape More comfortable |
| Safety | Less safe | Less safe |
| Price |
Key Features of Copic Original Markers
Copic Original markers are also known as the Classic line. They can be used with any type of media as a main or additional source of color. These pens come in a solid plastic case that can be used for transportation and storing markers there. For better understanding, there is a label that tells the user what these pens are, how many and what colors there are.
Speaking about the marker itself, it has a light gray square barrel with a logo and a color code on it. Each device is equipped with 2 nibs (chisel and bullet) that are covered with their own caps. In other words, all of them are two-sided. However, the color swatches on the cap provide quick access to the necessary tool.
The markers of Copic Original 72 set B along with other options are alcohol-based, so they provide a rich effect on paper and dry really quickly. Besides, the media are refillable so anyone can add some ink when they run out of it. On a separate note, the nibs can also be replaced, which is a pleasant feature that prevents you from the necessity to buy a new device but extra nibs.
- The coverage is great
- Vibrant pigments
- Nice selection of shades
- They are compatible with the Copic Airbrush system
- They are non-toxic and acid-free
- They dry fast
- They are not for beginners
Key Features of Copic Sketch Markers
The Copic Sketch markers also come in a transparent plastic case for storing and transportation. Each barrel is light gray and has an oval shape without any edges.
The medium comes with 2 different nibs: chisel on one side and brush on the other. This allows working in different techniques due to the ability to adjust the width of strokes. However, they are also protected by their own caps with the color swatch on each.
Meanwhile, the Copic Sketch markers have an unwritten feature that distinguishes these tools from others. The manufacturer states that only the Copic Sketch line is always updated by adding the “just released colors.” However, the main features – the ability to be refilled with ink and replacing the nibs – are also true. The same concerns the lightfastness that is achieved by the alcohol base.
- The stunning quality of the application
- They are comfortable to hold
- The coverage is great
- The pigments are saturated
- New colors
- Extended variety of application techniques
- They are compatible with the Copic Airbrush system
- They are non-toxic and acid-free
- The plastic case is too fragile and may crack
- They shouldn’t be used by kids
So, What Is the Difference Between Them?
It might seem that there is no difference between Copic Original and Copic Sketch lines, but that’s not true. Let’s take a look at how they differ.
The first distinction is the barrel shape. The Original marker has a square barrel, while the Sketch has an oval one. Obviously, the latter solution is better and more convenient to use.
The next difference is the nib shape. The Original pens are equipped with chisel and bullet tips, while the Sketch ones feature chisel and brush. A brush nib allows working with a wider variety of media and applying more techniques than with a bullet nib instead. However, both versions have replaceable tips, so if you are asking yourself, “Can I put a nib by myself?”, the answer is yes, no doubts. However, for this case, you may require additional tools such as tweezers that will make this procedure less complicated.
Another difference is the color selection, which is pretty nice in both series, and it may seem that they both have the same colors. However, the variety of color sets is wider in the Sketch version. Besides, all the new colors are always in Sketch sets only.
Taking into account the above-mentioned facts, it’s safe to say that the Copic Original markers are a cheap version of the Copic Sketch. However, it doesn’t mean that they are bad but rather are suitable for particular types of projects.
Is the Original and Sketch Markers by Copic Right for You?
In fact, there is no particular answer to whether you need to purchase Original or Sketch markers. The thing is that you need to understand what techniques you will apply and what types of media you will work with before you buy one of these lines.
As for me, I use the Copic Sketch as a source of new vibrant colors and a brush tip that allows me to experiment with my drawings. Meanwhile, I also have a pack of Original markers that provide me with fine yet saturated lines that I adore.
Stay with WoWPencils and with me – Yuliya Skryp – to be updated about the art world and its new things that change the way of application.
References
- Copic Sketch – COPIC Official Site – https://copic.jp/
- Copic Classic – COPIC Official Site – https://copic.jp/