Eyeliner is one of the most versatile makeup products on the market. Whether you want a no-makeup-makeup look or full-on glam, the right one can take you there with a single sweep. Thanks to an ever-growing amount of formulations and consistencies, there are endless possibilities when it comes to eyeliner.
There are three main types of liners, starting with pencils—the most forgiving type and almost exclusively reserved for the upper eyelid and waterline. Contrastingly, liquid liners deliver bold, intense shapes and precise lines, while gel liners provide a mix of precision and intense pigment. No matter what variation of eyeliner you prefer, the formula should be long-lasting and—most importantly—right for your eyes.
How We Found The Best Eyeliners
Finding the perfect eyeliner is no easy task. Lucky for you, we’ve used our unique algorithm that factors in best-seller lists, user reviews, and editor picks to round up a list of the 10 best eyeliners on the market. Ahead, we're giving you the lowdown on the 10 best eyeliners for every eye shape, makeup look, and skill level so you can find your new go-to. With pencil, gel, and liquid options to choose from in countless shades and finishes, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your routine. Keep scrolling to shop the best eyeliners money can buy.
March 10, 2023
Written By:Rank & Style
Product Expert:Georgia Jones
Top 10 Lists serve as unbiased shopping guides to the most trusted product recommendations on the internet. Products are scored and ranked using an algorithm backed by data consumers find most valuable when making a purchase. We are reader-supported and may earn a commission when you shop through our links.
The Rankings
Tarte Sex Kitten Liquid Liner
Overall Score
4.6
10
Tarte Sex Kitten Liquid Liner
4.42
1795 User Reviews
3.2
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 Longwear Eyeliner
WHO IT'S FOR
If you love a bold cat eye, then this is the eyeliner for you. Water and smudge-proof, it's perfect for dramatic styles that won't move an inch. And thanks to the skinny felt tip, it provides an intense color payoff with every stroke.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This liner offers 12 hours of pigment for looks that last as long as you need.
Cruelty Free
Fenty Beauty By Rihanna Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner
Overall Score
4.6
09
Fenty Beauty By Rihanna Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner
4.41
6115 User Reviews
3.3
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 Precision Tip Eyeliner
USER REVIEW
"I can't go back to other eyeliners because this one is amazing. Glides smoothly, great for long wear. My eyes get oily and greasy, especially during daytime in 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.
More Colors
Cruelty Free
Lancôme Artliner Precision Point Eyeliner
Overall Score
4.6
08
Lancôme Artliner Precision Point Eyeliner
4.46
3258 User Reviews
3.3
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 Felt Tip Eyeliner
WHAT IT DOES
Thanks to the uniquely shaped foam tip, Artliner allows you to create the coolest eye looks with ease. Plus, the fool-proof formula doesn't dry immediately, so you've got time to fix any mistakes.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
Formulated to deliver long-lasting, all-day wear, this liner is made with a combo of film-forming polymers that prevent smudging.
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Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
Overall Score
4.7
07
Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner
4.57
8009 User Reviews
3.3
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 Gel Pot Eyeliner
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
Reviewers loved this liner for staying on all day without drying out your skin. It combines the best of both worlds with the precision of liquid liner meeting the ease of gel formulas.
USER REVIEW
“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.”
More Colors
NYX Professional Makeup Mechanical Eye Liner Pencil
Overall Score
4.75
06
NYX Professional Makeup Mechanical Eye Liner Pencil
4.49
85862 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
4
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 Affordable Eyeliner
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
While the price of this liner may seem too good to be true, it isn't. Though it's incredibly creamy and hydrating, this retractable eyeliner offers smudge-proof wear, a wide color range, and payoff that lasts for hours.
WHO IT'S FOR
This eyeliner is heat and humidity-resistant, making it the perfect pick for those looking for something summer-proof.
More Colors
Cruelty Free
Ilia Clean Line Gel Eyeliner
Overall Score
4.8
05
Ilia Clean Line Gel Eyeliner
4.49
1575 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 Gel Eyeliner For Aging Eyes
WHY PEOPLE LOVE IT
This squeaky-clean formula delivers an effortless glide and easy blendability that combines the best of gel formulas with the efficiency of a pencil. Plus, the soft-tip applicator boasts excellent color payoff and is water-resistant.
USER REVIEW
"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."
More Colors
Cruelty Free
Clean Beauty
KVD Beauty Tattoo Liner
Overall Score
4.8
04
KVD Beauty Tattoo Liner
4.14
36929 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 Liquid Eyeliner
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Designed to deliver precise application even for those new to liquid liner, this pick has a cult-like following for its serious pigment, easy-to-use shape, and cruelty-free formula. With both standard and portable mini sizes, the precision never stops, even when you're on the go.
ADDITIONAL THINGS TO KNOW
This eyeliner is an Allure Best of Beauty Award winner.
More Colors
Cruelty Free
Sephora Collection Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner
Overall Score
4.8
03
Sephora Collection Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner
4.23
7545 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 Dual-Ended Eyeliner
WHY IT MADE THE LIST
Available in a wide range of color options, this waterproof liner comes in both shimmer and matte finishes. All of their editions boast a creamy consistency that blends like a dream—without smudging or running.
HELPFUL TIP
This formula comes with a built-in sharpener and smudger, so you never have to reach for an extra tool.
More Colors
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil
Overall Score
4.95
02
Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil
4.45
46201 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 Pencil
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 the boldest smokey eye looks in a wide range of colors from classic black to vibrant green.
WHERE TO WEAR
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.
More Colors
Cruelty Free
Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
Overall Score
5
01
Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
4.44
36893 User Reviews
5
Best Seller
5
Industry Recognition
5
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
WHAT IT DOES
All day isn't an exaggeration with this liner. Formulated to last through whatever challenges your day brings, this liquid pen applies smoothly without skipping a beat. And it works well for dramatic looks and subtle ones alike, so whether you're a beginner or a MUA-in-the-making, this pen is useful for everyone.
USER REVIEW
“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!”
More Colors
Cruelty Free
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