Short answer
For most people the best Posca markers set is a PC-5M medium pack (8 or 16 colors), plus a small PC-1M extra fine pack for detail. Buy a 24 or 48 count PC-5M set only if you work across many colors. The 62-piece gift set mixes eight tip sizes, which is useful for exploring but means fewer colors per size.
Posca marker sets compared
Every Posca pack contains the same water-based pigment paint (Posca FAQ). What changes is the tip, the number of colors, and whether the set mixes sizes. The table below covers the packs we could verify on Amazon.
Posca set sizes from verified Amazon listings. Pack contents can change; check the listing.
| Set | Tip and width | Colors | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| PC-5M 8 count | Medium bullet, 1.8 to 2.5 mm | 8 | A first set, rocks, kids’ crafts |
| PC-5M 15 or 16 count | Medium bullet, 1.8 to 2.5 mm | 15 or 16 | The sweet spot for most painters |
| PC-5M 24 count | Medium bullet, 1.8 to 2.5 mm | 24 | Illustration and color-heavy work |
| PC-5M 48 count | Medium bullet, 1.8 to 2.5 mm | 48 | Full palette in one size |
| PC-1M 8 or 16 pack | Extra fine, 0.7 mm | 8 or 16 | Detail, outlines, dots |
| PC-8K set of 15 | Broad chisel, 8 mm | 15 | Signs, block letters, big areas |
| PC-17K full range | Extra broad, 15 mm | 8 | Backgrounds and murals |
| 62-piece gift set | Eight tip sizes | Varies by tip | Exploring the whole range |
Posca 8 pack vs 16 pack
The posca markers 8 pack is the classic starter: basic colors plus black and white in the medium PC-5M tip. It is enough to learn how the pump works, paint rocks and try layering. The posca 16 pack adds secondary colors and lighter tones, which matters once you start shading or want to avoid mixing by layering. If you already know you like Posca, the 16 pack is usually the better value per pen.
A tip on size: medium pens run out unevenly. White and black empty first for nearly everyone. Rather than buying a bigger set for more of those, add a pack of white paint markers or a 3-pen white refill pack alongside your set.
Posca marker sets worth buying
All listings checked by hand. Trying the brand for the first time? Start with our Posca markers guide.
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Posca PC-5M medium, 8 count
The starter pack. Eight medium pens cover rocks, cards and small canvases.
- 1.8 to 2.5 mm reversible tip
- 8 colors
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Posca PC-5M medium, 16 count
Twice the palette of the 8 pack, the best balance of colors and cost for most painters.
- 1.8 to 2.5 mm reversible tip
- 16 colors
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Posca PC-5M medium, 24 count
For illustrators who want more shades without mixing.
- 24 colors
- Medium tip
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Posca PC-5M medium, 48 count
The full medium palette in one box. Only worth it if you use many colors.
- 48 colors
- Medium tip
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Posca 62-piece gift set with case
Mixed sizes from fine to extra broad. A gift pick, or a way to find your favorite tip before buying more.
- Listing names PCF-350, 1MR, 1M, 3M, 5M, 7M, 8K and 17K
- Includes a case
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Posca PC-1M extra fine, 16 pack
The detail companion to any medium set: outlines, dots and small lettering.
- 0.7 mm extra fine tip
- 16 colors
Each pick links to an Amazon listing we checked by hand. Prices, colors and pack sizes change on Amazon, so check the listing before you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Big Posca markers: the broad and extra broad sets
Big Posca markers are a different tool. The PC-8K has an 8 mm chisel tip for block letters and covering wide areas, and the PC-17K has a 15 mm rectangular tip for backgrounds, signage and murals. They use more paint per stroke, so buy them in the colors you will actually fill with, not as a full rainbow. A posca markers pack of broad pens suits shop windows, school signs and large canvases; for those, see paint markers for canvas and window paint markers.
Big Posca marker packs
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Posca PC-8K broad chisel, set of 15
Fifteen 8 mm chisel pens for lettering and large shapes.
- 8 mm chisel tip
- Listing names fabric, canvas, glass, wood and metal
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Posca PC-17K full range, 8 colours
The 15 mm extra broad tip in all eight colors, for backgrounds and murals.
- 15 mm rectangular tip
- 8 colors
Each pick links to an Amazon listing we checked by hand. Prices, colors and pack sizes change on Amazon, so check the listing before you buy. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Posca markers set of 100 or 1000?
People search for a posca markers set of 100 and even a set of 1000. We could not find a Posca-made set of either size on Amazon or on Posca’s range page. Listings with very high counts are usually bundles of several sets, or another brand using Posca in the title. If a listing promises 100 Posca pens at a low price, check the brand byline and the photos carefully. The largest genuine pack we verified is the 62-piece gift set, and the largest single-size set is the 48 count PC-5M.
How to choose a Posca marker set
- Pick the tip first.
Medium PC-5M covers most work; add extra fine PC-1M for detail. Our tip size chart compares widths.
- Pick the color count you will use.
Beginners rarely need more than 16 colors in one size.
- Add white.
Whatever set you buy, a spare white saves you from buying a bigger box.
- Check the byline.
Make sure the listing is sold under the Posca or Uni brand.
Posca has made these markers since 1983, according to Posca’s history page, and the paint is the same across every pack. If you are weighing Posca against a refillable system, read Posca vs Molotow.
Questions people ask
Where can I get Posca pens cheap?
Per pen, a larger single-size pack such as a 16 or 24 count PC-5M set usually beats buying pens one at a time. Amazon, art supply chains and craft stores all carry Posca sets, and prices change often, so compare the price per pen across sellers. Watch for seasonal sales on the big sets.
Do Posca pens rub off?
On porous surfaces such as paper, wood and stone, Posca says its paint is permanent once dry. On smooth surfaces such as glass it is erasable with a damp rag. For lasting work on smooth or handled items, Posca recommends a water-based spray varnish.
Why are POSCA markers so expensive?
Posca does not publish a cost breakdown. The pigment paint, valve mechanism, reversible tips on the PC-3M and PC-5M, and strong demand all play a part. Sets bring the cost per pen down compared with single pens, which is the easiest way to pay less.
Is POSCA a Japanese brand?
Yes. Posca is made by Uni Mitsubishi Pencil, which its history page says was founded in Tokyo in 1886. Posca says the marker debuted in 1983 with four tips and 22 colors.
Is POSCA ok on skin?
No. Posca’s FAQ says its markers are art tools, not certified for cosmetic use, and must not be used on skin. Choose face or body paint made for skin.
Sources
Last reviewed 2026-10-12. Specs and availability change; check the listing before you buy.