Last Updated: May 10, 2023 @ 2:16 pm.

What are the best chalk markers? Liquid chalk markers are great for craft projects on glass, tile, whiteboards and, yes, chalkboards. We asked our parent readers for their favorites—then we did another 5 hours of research, comparing quality and value with hands-on tests. Here are the ones we'd recommend.

FYI: We've been reviewing and rating products for the home and families since 1994. To keep things independent, we don't take money or freebies from brands we review! Our work is 100% reader-supported!


Chalk Marker 411: Tips & Advice

Liquid chalk markers are fun for just about any craft project . . . or if you run a small business, they can help create great eye-catching signs on blackboards.

In a nutshell, chalk markers work well on non-porous surfaces like tile, glass, stickers, whiteboards, plastic and metal. 

If you want to use a chalk marker on a blackboard,  consider these quick tips:

• Blackboards must be “seasoned” to work well with chalk markers. That means they have to be sealed to fill in any pores.

• One way to do this is to take a chalk marker and write all over the board—at least in the area you plan to use for the message. Then let the liquid chalk set for 30 seconds before wiping the board clean with a damp cloth.

• Read the directions carefully for any chalk marker—most brands have detailed instructions on how they need to be primed, etc. And be sure to store them in the manner required (usually, with the tip facing down). That keeps them from drying out.

We asked our parent readers for their favorite chalk markers. We took 10 brands they suggested and then did our own tests, marking glass, blackboards and porcelain to see what worked best in the real world. Which were easiest to use? Lasted the longest without drying out? The best bang for the buck?

Here are the chalk markers we’d recommend:

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Best Budget-Friendly Markers

Awesome under black light
Loved these vibrant and easy to use markers—especially on glass. Also nice: reversible tip for fine and bold lines. Caveat: not quite as liquid as others we tried.
$8.72

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Best Blackboard Chalk Markers

Includes extra tips
Bold and bright, these markers are our pick for use on blackboards (tip: you must season the board first). Long-lasting and easy to remove with a wet paper towel.
$7.99 ($1.00 / Count)

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Best White Chalk Marker

Easy on the wallet
If you just need a white chalk marker, this is our pick—nice fine tip makes clean lines. We loved them for art projects on porcelain jars. Easily erases with a bit of water.
$0.99

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Why Trust Us

We’ve been rating and reviewing products for the home and families since 1994. We do hands-on testing—we buy the products with our own money and evaluate with an eye toward quality, ease of use and affordability.

Here’s another key point: we don’t take money from the brands we review. No free samples, no sponsors, no “partnerships.” Our work is 100% reader-supported!

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