Comparing Graphite Pencils: Castell 9000 vs. Pitt Graphite Matte

Since 1761, providing the highest-quality art materials for every artist has been a core goal at Faber-Castell. Putting their goals into action, they added the highly anticipated Pitt Graphite Matte Pencils to their collection of graphite pencils for professional artists. Pitt Graphite Matte provides a shine-free, deep matte graphite experience that artists have been searching for.

Despite the unique matte features that these pencils provide, their classic Castell 9000 Graphite Pencils remain the best selection for a traditional graphite experience. So, what is the difference between Pitt Graphite Matte and Castell 9000? Both pencils hold equal value but possess qualities that make them individually special.

Pitt Graphite Matte:

Pitt Graphite Matte Pencils are made of graphite that provide an ultra-matte laydown for reduced reflection on paper. Available in eight degrees of lead hardness (HB, 2B, 4B, 6B, 8B, 12B, and 14B), Faber-Castell has created the world’s first 14th degree of matte lead. The dark shine-free quality of these pencils brings a whole new dimension to monochrome drawing. Along with their unmatchable dark tones, Pitt Graphite Matte pencils also provide a smooth graphite application ideal for writing, drawing, and sketching that is unique in texture with the highest artist quality. If glare from lights is likely to be an issue when viewing your final artwork, then Pitt Graphite Matte pencils are the optimal choice.

Castell 9000:

A firm favorite with professional artists and illustrators for over 110 years, Castell 9000 Graphite Pencils

have earned their high-quality reputation with superior leads made of finely ground graphite and clay for smooth laydown. Castell 9000 graphite pencils are available in 16 degrees of hardness: 8B, 7B, 6B, 5B, 4B, 3B, 2B, B, HB, F, H, 2H, 3H, 4H, 5H, and 6H. They are also available in jumbo with five degrees of lead hardness: HB, 2B, 4B, 6B, and 8B. The extensive range of graphite available to artists through this collection allows for exciting effects and contrasts in shade. Castell 9000 graphite pencils are a staple to every artist’s collection.

See the Difference for Yourself:

The difference between Pitt Graphite Matte and Castell 9000 Graphite Pencils is easily shown in their graphite laydown. When viewed from above, there is virtually no difference between the Castell 9000 and Pitt Graphite Matte.

Observing the same drawing against the light, the difference in the graphite laydown is evident. Light reflects off the Castell 9000 graphite creating a light grey hue, whereas the Pitt Graphite Matte remains a rich black.

Both Pitt Graphite Matte and Castell 9000 Graphite Pencils are lightfast, created with 3.3mm lead, have extra break-resistant SV bonding, and are coated with environmentally friendly water-based varnish.

It is important to understand the different qualities of these graphite materials to achieve the best result for your art.