When it comes to choosing markers for travel sketching, it’s important to weigh both the quality of the markers and their practical aspects for being on the go. Let’s compare two popular brands of alcohol-based markers—Copic Ciao and Finecolour (EF102)—to see which is better suited for your next travel adventure.
If you like to sketch in your travels, I have a post about my travel kit. You can read it here.
Portability
Copic Ciao markers are known for their sleek and compact design. They’re lightweight and smaller than Copic’s other lines, making them easier to pack in your travel kit without taking up too much space. Additionally, the round barrel design is comfortable for long sketching sessions, which is a plus when you’re out exploring new locations. Order Copic Ciao here.
Finecolour (EF102) markers are slightly bulkier in comparison. Though still fairly compact, they may take up a bit more space in your kit. The marker bodies are rectangular, which could either help them stay in place or make them less comfortable to hold for long durations. Finecolour markers you can find on Aliexpress.
Price and Value
Copic Ciao markers are known for their premium quality, which is reflected in the price. While they provide excellent blending, vibrant colors, and refillable options, they can be expensive—especially if you need a variety of shades for your sketches.
Finecolour (EF102) markers, on the other hand, are more affordable, making them a budget-friendly option for travel sketchers. While they may not offer the same high-end quality as Copic, Finecolour still provides solid performance and good color variety for a fraction of the cost.
Color Variety
When sketching in new locations, having a wide range of colors at your disposal is key to capturing the scene accurately.
Copic Ciao offers a vast range of colors with over 180 shades available, allowing for precise and vibrant illustrations. Copic’s colors are also known for their excellent blending properties, making it easier to achieve smooth gradients in your travel sketches.
Finecolour (EF102) also offers a decent color selection, but its range is more limited compared to Copic. While it may have enough colors for casual sketching, more advanced artists might find it lacking, particularly when attempting to match specific tones from a scene.
If color variety is your priority, Copic Ciao is the better option.
Ink Quality and Performance
The ink in Copic Ciao markers is alcohol-based, allowing for seamless blending and long-lasting color. The quality is hard to match, as Copic markers are well-regarded for their professional-grade performance, which can be especially helpful when sketching outdoors or in changing light conditions.
Finecolour (EF102) markers, while also alcohol-based, don’t blend as smoothly as Copic markers. Their ink quality is still decent, especially for their price, but you may notice more streaking or uneven tones compared to Copic.
For travel sketchers seeking professional results, Copic Ciao performs better in terms of ink quality and blending.
Durability and Refillability
Travel can be rough on your art supplies, so durability is an important factor.
Copic Ciao markers are designed to last. They are refillable, and their nibs are replaceable, which means you won’t need to buy new markers once they run out—just bring some refills along for longer trips. The durability of the marker body is excellent, so they’re less likely to be damaged in your travel kit.
Finecolour (EF102) markers, are durable enough for most trips, also offer the same refillable or replaceable options.
Ease of Use While Traveling
Travel often means sketching on the go, whether in cafés, on planes, or at scenic spots. You’ll want markers that are easy to use in different environments.
Copic Ciao markers have dual tips—one broad chisel tip for covering larger areas and a fine tip for details, giving you versatility. However, the caps can be a bit tight, which might be tricky when you’re in a rush or juggling your sketchbook and markers outdoors.
Finecolour (EF102) markers also offer dual tips but tend to have a slightly easier-to-remove cap, which can be helpful when you need to quickly switch colors while capturing a scene. However, the ink flow can be less consistent, especially when working quickly.
For ease of use in fast-paced environments, Finecolour might have a slight edge due to its cap design, though Copic Ciao still offers better overall functionality.
Conclusion: Which Is Better for Travel?
If you’re looking for high-quality markers with vibrant colors, and excellent performance, Copic Ciao is the top choice despite the higher price. They’re durable and lightweight, making them ideal for travel sketchers who prioritize quality.
If you’re a budget-conscious traveler or a beginner looking for affordable markers that still get the job done, Finecolour (EF102) is a solid option. While they don’t quite match the performance of Copic, they are a good compromise for those who want to save space and money on their trip.
Ultimately, your choice depends on your travel style and sketching needs. For long trips with extensive sketching sessions, Copic Ciao may be worth the investment. But for short trips or casual sketching, Finecolour could be the better option.
