What’s the Difference Between #1 and #2 Grade of Pencils? And What About the Other Grades?

Ever wondered what the numbers and letters on pencils actually mean? In this video, we break down the difference between #1 and #2 pencils, explore the full range of pencil grades, and explain why these different types matter. Whether you're an artist looking to perfect your shading or just curious about why #2 pencils are the standard for test-taking, this video will give you all the answers.

We’ll cover the uses of H-grade (hard) and B-grade (soft) pencils, how they affect writing and drawing, and which pencil is best for your needs. Grab your favorite pencil and join us for a deep dive into the world of pencil grading!

Timestamps:
0:16 - Introduction
0:48 - What is Pencil Grading?
2:06 - The Difference Between #1 and #2 Pencils
4:10 - The Feel and Application: #1 vs. #2
5:00 - Why Do We Have Different Grades?
6:02 - Exploring Other Pencil Grades (H and B Pencils)
7:17 - Conclusion: Choosing the Right Pencil for Your Needs

#pencils #pencilgrades #hbvsb #artisttools #writingtools #pencilhardness #sketching #drawingtools #artsupplies #graphite #drawingtips #schooltools #hbpencils #bgradepencils #pencilscience

[robertlange]

I’ve never seen a #1 pencil, Im sixty five years old.

[susanm]

As a child I loved the Dixon Ticonderoga #1. In US elementary schools in the 1950s we were supposed to use #2 pencils, but I preferred #1 pencils and only used #2 pencils for tests. I liked the darker lines of the #1. I still write with pencils a lot but prefer 0.5mm mechanical pencils in HB. Back in the days when we had paper newspapers I did my crosswords with B lead because it didn’t tear the flimsy newsprint.

[heronimousbrapson]

Sketch artist's dilemma: 2B or not 2B...that is the question...

[ChrisEbbrsen]

Excellent! Best explained treatise on pencil grades I've heard. Keep up the good work. Much appreciated!

[PushyPawn]

Feeling pretty smug with my mechanical pencil.

[Solitaire]

I've found that a 2B pencil is also good for writing. I like that it is a bit darker than an HB and that it writes more smoothly. Since I write with mechanical pencils, I don't have to worry about sharpening it.

[kenmore]

Thank you! It is very confusing and I figured it out as you showed a scale where a higher number is harder and another scale where a higher number is softer. The area in between is where even more confusion lies. A #2 is HB and HB is a grade by itself, but there is a 2 in each direction beyond that which is super confusing, but you did a nice job of showing the grades and the what to expect.

[junbug]

My latest drawing class teacher told us to bring a regular number 2 pencil. I created some beautiful sketches with the workhorse.

[mnoxman]

It is no longer applicable but in the days when Keufel and Esser drafting machines ruled the world and computers were rare in drafting rooms the 2H was used for creating lettering lines or for setting up lines to be referenced for your actual drawing lines. A 3B might be used as a 'bold' for your lettering for important notes. This knowledge used to be common, You could find a non #2 pencils in the local office supply store or artists corner of the local establishment.

[wailingalen]

The only time I’ve seen different number pencils is in an art supply store #3 #2B #4 it gets pretty crazy

[brianfretwell]

Never seen a pencil with numbers on just the H B rating from 4H to 4B!!!

[carlk]

Cool stuff as always. Thanks. Oh... 1st lol

[chrisbell]

Like if you're taking a #2 while watching this video 😆

[neilgoodman]

>>Most Respected Professor: I am astounded at this portion of Talmud. It seems to say to the readers, as you have translated it, that we Jews are responsible for our own antisemitism (spelling); thus am I a "Perplexed" student, but
>>I remain yours, excited to know what the outcome is: Serenely, NHG