Eyeliner is one of the most versatile makeup products on the market. It’s a staple in most women’s makeup bags due to its ability to instantly add some “oomph.” Whether you want a barely-there look or full-on glam, the right one will take you there with a couple of swipes.
Which Type of Eyeliner is Best For You?
If you’re shopping around for a new eyeliner to add to your makeup routine, it’s best to know what you’re looking for. So, keep in mind there are three main types of liners:
Pencils: Eyeliner pencils are the most traditional type of eyeliner. They are easy to use, making them a great option for beginners. However, they won’t give you as bold and pigmented an application as a gel or liquid formula. And they’re also almost exclusively reserved for the upper eyelid and waterline.
Liquids: Liquid liners deliver bold, intense shapes and precise lines. They’re typically available as a felt-tip pen or in a small jar accompanied by a brush for application. Because it’s difficult to correct mistakes, liquid liners are best for more seasoned makeup users.
Gels: Gel eyeliners offer rich color and long-lasting wear. They’re versatile—you can use them to create clean or smudgy looks—and they do well in humid environments. Most often, you use a small brush to apply gel eyeliner.
How We Found The Best Eyeliners
Finding the perfect eyeliner is no easy task. Lucky for you, we’ve used our data-powered ranking algorithm to round up a list of the 10 best eyeliners on the market. Based on insights from reviews, social media, best-seller lists, and more, the list below offers a reliable choice for everyone (including pencil, gel, and liquid options). Keep scrolling to shop the best eyeliners money can buy.
All products and deals are sourced by the Rank & Style team using data and expert insights. If you shop through our links, we may earn a commission—at no extra cost to you.
Jump To ProductsThe Rankings
KVD Beauty Tattoo Liner
Overall Score
4.75
10
KVD Beauty Tattoo Liner
4.27
8423 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Long-Lasting Liquid Eyeliner for Precision
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Kat Von D's Tattoo liner has amassed a cult following for its serious pigment and easy-to-use applicator. With both standard and mini sizes available, the precision never stops, even when you're on the go.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This eyeliner is available in Mad Max Brown or Trooper Black. It has a fade- and smudge-resistant formula that's also cruelty-free.
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Cruelty Free
Fenty Beauty By Rihanna Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner
Overall Score
4.75
09
Fenty Beauty By Rihanna Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner
4.09
7308 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Smudge-Proof Eyeliner for Bold Pigment
WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING
"I can't go back to other eyeliners because this one is amazing. It glides on smoothly and is great for long wear. My eyes get oily and greasy, especially during the summer, but this eyeliner does not smudge at all."
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This water-resistant formula is also fast-drying, so you don't have to worry about smudges, pulls, or runs.
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Cruelty Free
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
Overall Score
4.75
08
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
4.41
7528 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Gel Eyeliner for All-Day Wear
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Reviewers love this liner for its long-lasting formula that doesn't dry out the skin. It combines the best of both worlds: You get the precision of a liquid liner and the buildable pigment of a gel formula.
WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING
“Whatever you're using for eyeliner now, stop and start using this. Make sure to use a primer if you're prone to creasing and smudging. Also, grab a good angle brush for a thin line and wet it if you're going for a clean line. This is the best eyeliner I've used, hands down.”
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Tarte Sex Kitten Liquid Liner
Overall Score
4.8
07
Tarte Sex Kitten Liquid Liner
4.45
2236 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Vegan Liquid Eyeliner for Sensitive Eyes
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
If you love a bold cat eye, Tarte's Sex Kitten Liquid Liner is the eyeliner for you. Water-resistant and smudge-proof, the formula is designed for high-impact looks and long nights.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This liner offers 12 hours of pigment for looks that last as long as you need. Plus, the applicator has a skinny felt tip, making it easy to apply in just a few swipes.
Cruelty Free
Sephora Collection Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner
Overall Score
4.8
06
Sephora Collection Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner
4.21
7669 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Affordable Waterproof Eyeliner
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Sephora's Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner comes in over 15 colors and both shimmer and matte finishes. Each version boasts a creamy consistency that blends like a dream, without smudging or running.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
The applicator comes with a built-in sharpener and smudger, so you never have to reach for an extra tool.
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Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner
Overall Score
4.85
05
Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner
4.4
66054 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Kajal Eyeliner for Smoky Eyes
WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING
"This eyeliner is truly gorgeous. I have most of the colours and love them all. Once the formula dries down, it does not budge! And I can't emphasize enough how pigmented these are!"
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Looking for a reliable colored eyeliner? Victoria Beckham's Satin Kajal Liner is available in several jewel tones, including Copper, Surfside, and Olive.
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NYX Professional Makeup Mechanical Eye Liner Pencil
Overall Score
4.85
04
NYX Professional Makeup Mechanical Eye Liner Pencil
4.5
100539 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
3
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Drugstore Eyeliner for Daily Wear
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
NYX's Mechanical Eye Liner Pencil is one of the most affordable options on the list. But that's not all: Its formula is incredibly creamy and hydrating, and the retractable applicator helps to create a precise look that'll last for hours.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This eyeliner is heat- and humidity-resistant, making it the perfect pick for those looking for something summer-proof.
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Cruelty Free
Ilia Clean Line Gel Eyeliner
Overall Score
4.85
03
Ilia Clean Line Gel Eyeliner
4.42
2349 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Clean Eyeliner with Natural Ingredients
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Known for its clean formulas and nourishing ingredients, ILIA represents the best of makeup and skincare. The brand's Clean Line Gel Eyeliner offers effortless glide and easy blendability. The soft-tip applicator helps create precise, smudge-resistant lines.
WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING
"I love this eyeliner! It glides on smoothly and stays put, but it's still easy to correct any mistakes. And the ingredients are something I feel good about. I won’t buy another brand! I’ve reordered multiple times."
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Cruelty Free
Clean Beauty
Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
Overall Score
4.9
02
Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
4.36
52686 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner for All-Day Wear
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
All day isn't an exaggeration for this liner. Formulated to last through whatever your day brings, this liquid eyeliner applies in moments. It works well for dramatic and subtle looks, so whether you're a beginner or a MUA-in-the-making, this pen will work for you.
WHAT REVIEWERS ARE SAYING
“This is my favorite product on earth! I have bought this countless times, and although I have tried other liquid eyeliners, this is my favorite one. I always end up going back to it. It's my holy-grail liner!”
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Cruelty Free
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil
Overall Score
4.95
01
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil
4.46
49039 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
4
Social Buzz
About Our Scoring System
In order for any product to be featured on Rank & Style, it must first meet the requirements set by our algorithm—a vetting process that allocates points based on consumer and industry data to score and rank products within a given category.
Best Eyeliner Overall
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
With its creamy texture, this liner smudges like a kohl pencil—a quality that's tough to find in waterproof formulas. It's perfect for creating bold, smoky eye looks. Pick it up in a wide range of colors from classic black to vibrant green.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
No rom-com, muggy day, or hot yoga sesh is enough to make this stuff budge. It stays put all day but washes away easily with a good cleanser.
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Cruelty Free
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