When it comes to makeup, there's no denying that eyeliner holds a special place in every beauty enthusiast’s heart. There's a certain magic in finding that one best eyeliner that glides on effortlessly, stays put all day or night, and adds that charming touch to your makeup routine. As a makeup enthusiast, I have researched, tested, and used countless eyeliners over the years. And, now, I am excited to share my curated list of the absolute best with all of you. I even subjected some to the unpredictable weather of outdoor adventures and, on one memorable occasion, an unexpected downpour that left me quite the raccoon-eyed explorer! Through it all, I sought that perfect balance of precision, smudge-proof endurance, and that "wow" factor that transforms any look. So, when I say these are the best of the best, it's because they've earned their place in my makeup routine, proving their worth through countless real-world tests and memorable, sometimes unexpected, experiences. 

But why should you give these eyeliners a try? Well, besides the fact that most of them have earned a permanent spot in my makeup collection, they offer something truly special. These eyeliners are more than just makeup; they are the companions that have seen me through long days, sultry nights, and everything in between. They bring out the best in my eye shape, making them appear bigger, bolder, and more enticing. So, whether you are a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, you can achieve those perfect cat eyes or subtle enhancements effortlessly.

So, consider yourself in a treat for the best liners because I have certainly got you covered below. Here are some of my top picks that have met my meticulous tests and exceeded my expectations.

• 1
  Best Overall

  Maybelline Eyestudio Master Precise All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

  BUY ON AMAZON

If you are like me and demand nothing less than perfection from your eyeliner, Maybelline's No Smudge Black Liquid Eyeliner is an absolute must-try. This waterproof eyeliner redefines what precision means, boasting an ultra-fine tip that delivers the sharpest, most defined lines you have ever seen. So, whether you are creating a natural look or going all out with a dramatic cat eye, this liner stays put for up to 12 hours, ensuring your eyes are on point from morning to night. Plus, it stands out as the best eyeliner for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

2

Best Eyeliner Pencil with Longevity

Revlon ColorStay Eyeliner Pencil

BUY ON AMAZON

Revlon has truly outdone themselves with this cult-classic, long-wearing pencil eyeliner. Why do I recommend it? Well, the answer is simple: It combines the best of both worlds. First, there's the impressive staying power – up to 24 hours of smudge-proof wear.  But that's not all. The built-in sharpener ensures your lines are crisp and precise, while the smudger lets you effortlessly blend and soften the color for a sultry, smoky eye. This kind of versatility is hard to come by in just one pencil. And what really seals the deal is that this liner is not just waterproof but also glides on smoothly.

3

Best Matte Finish Eyeliner

stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner

BUY ON AMAZON

I can't help but also share my love for Stila's Dark Brown Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner – and I am not the only one raving about it. My friends and I have put this eyeliner to the test, and it has never let us down. The felt tip applicator is a game-changer, ensuring precise lines whether you are a makeup newbie or a pro. And when they say it won't smudge or run, they mean it! We have worn it through long days and late nights, and it has stayed impeccable. Just a quick tip: Shake it well before use, sweep the eyeliner pen along your lash line, and use the tip for a thin, clean line or angle it for a bolder statement.

4

Most Suitable Ultra-pigmented Eyeliner

e.l.f. No Budge Retractable Eyeliner

BUY ON AMAZON

This professional eyeliner is everything you would want in an eyeliner as it is creamy, ultra-pigmented, and unbelievably waterproof. It has been put through the paces, and it truly doesn't budge. It delivers an all-day intense look that doesn't quit. You can apply it on your lash line, waterline, or go all out and use it all over the lid for eyes that stay striking from morning to night. And, here is a beauty tip: use it as a base for eyeshadow, and you will achieve an intense, dramatic, runway-inspired look.

5

Best Super Intense Liquid Liner

NYX PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP Epic Wear Liquid Liner

BUY ON AMAZON

This liner by Nyx Professional Makeup isn't your ordinary eyeliner. It is super intense and incredibly pigmented, delivering a bold matte finish that is so perfect for your face. The flexible brush ensures precise application, so you can create graphic eyeliner looks with ease. It is waterproof, smudge-proof, and transfer-proof, meaning it won't budge, even in the face of a festival's elements. This top-rated eyeliner is your go-to for makeup that lasts through the most epic moments.

6

Best Ultra-creamy Eyeliner

URBAN DECAY 24/7 Glide-On Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil

BUY ON AMAZON

This product by Urban Decay surely makes for the best eyeliner pencil that packs a punch with its intensely pigmented matte deep brown color. After all, it is award-winning for a reason! This eyeliner is not just waterproof; it is practically LifeProof — I am talking about 16 hours of intense, smudge-proof wear that stays put despite being exposed to tons of external factors. It is your reliable companion through whatever the day throws at you. However, what really seals the deal for me is that it is smooth, long-lasting, and even moisturizing – something you rarely find in eyeliners. Plus, it is cruelty-free.

7

Best Smudge-proof Gel Eyeliner

INGLOT AMC Eyeliner

BUY ON AMAZON

Inglot's AMC Eyeliner Gel 77 delivers intense, bold black color with a matte finish, and ensures it will last you a while. It is perfect for achieving sharp lines, cat eyes, or any eyeliner look you desire. It is hypoallergenic, waterproof, and cruelty-free. Plus, it's vegan, aligning with ethical and cruelty-free beauty practices. So, if you are looking for the best gel eyeliner that seamlessly combines both reliability and elegance, this product is the one to trust.

8

Best Sleek Gel Eyeliner

Revlon So Fierce Vinyl Eyeliner

BUY ON AMAZON

This gel pencil eyeliner is the real deal. It is all about that stunning vinyl finish that instantly grabs attention, creating a sleek, liquid-like result with the ease of a gel. But the real magic is in its staying power. It is waterproof and designed to last up to a solid 16 hours, ensuring your look remains fierce from morning till night. However, the cute lil thing that caught my attention was its modern packaging which is indeed the cherry on top, boasting a unique tinted black cap and a sleek vinyl finish. Trust me, you won't want to miss out on this one.

9

Best Water-resistant Formula

HAUS LABORATORIES EYE-DENTIFY GEL KOHL EYELINER

Buy on Amazon

I was effortlessly able to bring out my inner punk with this kohl gel eyeliner from HAUS LABORATORIES. This gel eyeliner helped me to make a rebellious statement – the signature jet-black shade delivered an intense color payoff. Also, the creamy and pigment-packed formula allowed me to blend and smudge it before it set into a water-resistant, smokey-eye masterpiece. Whether you're trying to create a subtle or bold look, this liner will become your go-to choice. Just glide it on your lash line or waterline and smudge it if you want to look extra edgy.

10

Best Matte Finish Eyeliner

eyeko BLACK MAGIC LIQUID EYELINER

Buy on Amazon

The Black Magic Liquid Eyeliner from eyeko in the shade "Carbon Black" soon became my go-to choice for a sultry and after-dark look. It comes in a liquid formula that glides on the lids effortlessly, delivering a bold, jet-black hue that stays put through tears, humidity, and even the wildest parties. It's also waterproof, long-wearing, and fade-proof, ensuring that my look lasts for hours. It gave me sleek lines with the precision tip – prepare and be ready to captivate with your gaze, for hours on end.

11

Best Easy-to-Use Eyeliner

K7L Cream Eyeliner

BUY ON AMAZON

Let me spill the beans on this eyeliner — it is a game-changer. Whether you are going for a casual daytime look or dialing up the drama for a girls' night out, this waterproof cream eyeliner has you covered. It is tear-resistant, and perfect for emotional moments. You can enjoy 12 hours of care-free glam without worrying about touch-ups. This eyeliner stays put, no matter what your day throws at you. The application is a breeze with just three fool-proof steps. It smoothly glides on your eyelids, allowing you to create the perfect winged cat-eye.

12

Best Liner Suitable for All Skin Types

Kaja Winged Eyeliner & Pen

BUY ON AMAZON

Let's keep it simple: If you have ever struggled with achieving that flawless winged eyeliner, KAJA's got you covered. This double-ended wonder features a wing stamp for that perfect wing in a STAMP, a liner pen for the ideal LINE, and it's all as easy as REPEAT. The stamp creates the wing, seamlessly connecting to the lower lash line, and the pen finishes the job. It is user-friendly and hassle-free. Also, the brand embodies K-beauty innovation, so you can trust the quality.

13

Jillian Dempsey Khôl Eyeliner

BUY ON AMAZON

Let me share my love for this eyeliner. It is all about intense, long-lasting color without the questionable stuff. Here's why I recommend it: It's ultra-pigmented, ensuring your eyes make a statement. But it's not just about the color but also about the clean beauty at its best. Jillian Dempsey knows her stuff. As a celebrity makeup artist, she hand-selects the best for you. This eyeliner, with its vegan formula and exclusion of parabens, sulfates, phthalates, petrochemicals, and GMOs, is a favorite for clean beauty lovers.

14

MAC Fluidline Eye Liner Gel DIPDOWN Brown

BUY ON AMAZON

As a dedicated fan of makeup, I can attest to MAC's expertise in the field, and their gel eyeliner is a prime example of their exceptional products. It's the ideal balance of color and ease, making it a go-to choice for makeup enthusiasts like me. Dipdown is the sweet spot — not as harsh as black but still delivers that striking impact. It goes on like a dream, smooth and precise. Plus, it lasts, ensuring your eyes look flawless all day.

15

Lancôme Drama Liqui- pencil Waterproof Eyeliner

BUY ON AMAZON

Here’s the deal: This eyeliner offers rich pigments, a creamy application, and hours of waterproof wear, making it a top choice for makeup enthusiasts. The vibrant color goes on in a single stroke, and it doesn't budge. No smudging, no flaking, no fading. Whether you are out all day or night, it has got you covered always. And, with personal experience, I can assure you that this eyeliner is hassle-free to use. It applies close to your lashes, and the formula sets quickly, so there's no waiting around.

16

PRIME PROMETICS PrimeEyes Glide Eyeliner

BUY ON AMAZON

Whether you are into subtle, blended-out looks, crisp lines, or daring wings, this eyeliner does it all. Of all it’s traits, the product’s main USP is that it behaves like an pencil but deposits pigment like a liquid liner — giving you the best of both worlds! Its tip ensures a light touch, and the infused premium pigments flow smoothly, giving you deep, natural color that lasts all day. It won't budge or bleed. 

Enriched with avocado oil, olive oil, and hyaluronic acid, it's gentle on your eyes and lashes as well. Plus, it is pH-balanced and cruelty-free Considering how hydrating the formula is, I would recommend you to let it dry for 60 seconds, before working up to the intensity you desire.

17

ILIA - Clean Line Liquid Liner

BUY ON AMAZON

This amazing eyeliner lets you create a subtle, barely-there tight line or go bold with a confident cat-eye — effortlessly. This liner doesn't smudge, feather, or run, even from day to night. The classic black color gives you a clean, striking look, thanks to its finely pointed felt tip. 

But that's not all — it's cruelty-free, gluten-free, and vegan, ensuring you can use it with a clear conscience. And here's the kicker — it features charcoal powder as a safe alternative, making it clean beauty at its best.

18

CHARLOTTE TILBURY Rock N Kohl Iconic Liquid Eye Liner Pencil

BUY ON AMAZON

Imagine the best of both worlds — the silky-smooth glide of a liquid liner and the rich pigment of a kohl pencil. That is exactly what you get with Rock 'N' Kohl. It is effortless. One slick, and you have got a line that blends beautifully and then sets. No fuss, no smudging — just elegant eye makeup that stays put. Why do I recommend it? Because it is the perfect blend of ease and intensity. For an impressive eyeliner, Charlotte Tilbury has truly nailed it with Rock 'N' Kohl.

Now that you have explored some of our top picks, let's switch gears and dive straightaway into the buying guide. We will discuss what factors to consider when choosing the right eyeliner for your needs and offer insights on how to make the most of your eyeliner application.

Choosing the right eyeliner can greatly enhance your eye makeup and overall look. Here are some pointers to consider when selecting your best one:

1.Type of Eyeliner: Decide whether you prefer pencil, liquid, gel, or powder eyeliner. Each type has its own unique application and finish. Pencil liners are great for beginners, while liquid liners offer precision. Gel and powder liners can be smudged for a smoky look.

2. Color: Consider the color that complements your eye color and makeup style. While black and brown are classic choices, experiment with other shades that enhance your eyes, such as blues, greens, or purples.

3.Finish: Determine whether you want a matte, satin, shimmer, or glossy finish. The finish can dramatically impact your overall look, so choose one that aligns with your style.

4.Waterproof vs. Non-Waterproof: Think about your needs. Waterproof eyeliners are ideal for long-lasting wear and water-related activities, but they can be more challenging to remove. Non-waterproof eyeliners are easier to remove but may smudge in humid conditions.

5. Smudge-Proof And Long-lasting: If you want your eyeliner to stay in place all day, look for smudge-proof and long-lasting formulas. These are less likely to smear or fade.

6. Eye Shape: Consider your eye shape when choosing an eyeliner style. For example, a cat-eye look may work well for almond-shaped eyes, while tightlining may enhance smaller eyes.

7. Consider Allergies And Sensitivities: If you have sensitive eyes or allergies, opt for hypoallergenic and fragrance-free eyeliners. Check the ingredient list to ensure it doesn't contain substances that may irritate your eyes.

8.Application Ease: Evaluate how comfortable you are with eyeliner application. Pencil liners are easier for beginners, while liquid liners offer precision but require a steadier hand. Gel and powder liners are versatile but may require a brush for application.

9. Brand And Reviews: Research different brands and read user reviews. Reviews can provide valuable insights into the product's quality, ease of application, and longevity.

10.Price Point: Determine your budget and find eyeliners that meet your criteria within that range. There are quality eyeliners available at various price points.

11.Multi-Purpose Use: Some eyeliners can double as eyeshadow or be used for tightlining. Consider if you want an eyeliner with multiple uses.

12. Clean Beauty: If you prioritize clean and natural beauty products, look for eyeliners that are free of harmful ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and phthalates.

Here is a step-by-step guide to achieve that glam wink look with your best eyeliner:

1. Prepare Your Eyes: Start with clean, moisturized eyelids.

2.Select Your Eyeliner: Choose your preferred type — pencil, liquid, gel, or powder.

3. Steady Your Hand: Find good lighting and use steady hands for precise application.

4. Start Inward: Begin at the inner corner of your eye and move outward.

5. Create a Wing (Optional): Extend the line beyond the outer corner for a cat-eye look.

6. Smudge for Smokiness (Optional): Soften the line for a smudged effect using a brush or cotton swab.

7. Apply Mascara: Finish with mascara to define your lashes.

8. Close Tightly: Seal your eyeliner tightly after use to maintain its quality.

In all, the best eyeliner for you ultimately depends on your personal style, skill level, and the looks you want to create. Whether you are aiming for a subtle enhancement or a bold statement, the right eyeliner can absolutely accentuate your eyes and elevate your overall makeup. Remember, practice makes perfect, so do not hesitate to experiment and find the perfect eyeliner that suits your unique style and enhances your natural beauty.