A professional oil paint set for artists should offer dependable color and a selection that suits how you paint—not just the most tubes. My best overall pick is the Gamblin Artist Oil Colors Introductory Set, a focused set with larger 37 ml tubes that favors a considered palette over sheer color count. The Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil Colour Introductory Set stands out for artists who want its Artists’ Oil Colour line, while the Paul Rubens 20-color set offers larger 50 ml tubes for painters who use paint generously. The main tradeoff is between artist-grade paint and a broad, lower-commitment palette, as well as between tube size and color variety. Read on for the full comparison and a guide to choosing the set that fits your work.
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Key Takeaways
- Gamblin Artist Oil Colors puts the emphasis on a focused nine-color palette and 37 ml tubes, rather than the widest selection.
- Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil Colour is distinct from the Winton sets: buyers should compare the named paint line as well as the tube count.
- Paul Rubens and PHOENIX Studio provide 20 colors in 50 ml tubes, a format suited to higher paint use but less compact than small-tube sets.
- Rembrandt’s two 10-color sets and the Gamblin set show why a compact palette can be a more considered choice than a large assortment.
- Sets with 24 to 48 colors, including Magicfly and MyArtscape, prioritize palette breadth; that does not by itself establish artist-grade pigment performance.
| professional oil paint set for artist | Tube size | Number of colors | Paint type | Brand |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Col | 12ml | — | — | — |
| Paul Rubens Oil Paint Set | 50ml | 20 | — | — |
| MEEDEN Non-Toxic Oil Paint Set | 22ml (0.74 fl oz) each | 24 | Oil paint | MEEDEN |
| Phoenix Artist Oil Paint Set | 40ml (1.35 oz.) | 24 | Oil paint | — |
| Rembrandt Artists’ Oils | 15ml | 10 | Oil | Rembrandt |
| Magicfly Oil Paint Set | 18 ml (0.6 oz) | 40 | Oil | Magicfly |
| Gamblin Artist Oil Colors Intr | 37 ml each | 9 | Oil | Gamblin |
| Gamblin 1980 Oil Color Exclusi | 37 ml | 8 | — | Gamblin |
| Castle Art Supplies 24 x 12ml | 12 ml | 24 | Oil-based | Castle Art Supplies |
| Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Col | 12 ml | — | — | Winsor & Newton |
| PHOENIX Studio Oil Paint Set | — | 20 | Oil-based | — |
| Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil C | — | — | Oil | Winsor & Newton |
| Rembrandt Oil Colour 10x15ml T | — | — | Oil color | — |
| MyArtscape Artist Oil Paint Se | 12 ml | 48 | Oil | MyArtscape |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Colour Paint Set of 10 x 12ml Tubes with 2 Brushes, Pad, and Palette
I’d choose this set when a ready-to-paint bundle matters as much as the paint itself. Its 10 Winton colors come with two brushes, an A4 textured oil pad, and a palette, so a newer oil painter can start without assembling basic supplies separately. The 12ml tubes are much smaller than the 50ml tubes in the Paul Rubens set, making this less suited to sustained, large-canvas work, but the bundled tools give it a practical advantage for learning and compact studies. The tradeoff is limited color variety and only two brushes; painters with an established tool kit may get more use from a paint-focused set with a broader palette. Drying-time details are not provided.
Pros:- Includes a textured A4 oil pad, plastic palette, and two brushes alongside the paints
- Ten colors provide a straightforward starting palette
- Winton colors are presented as dependable paints suited to larger-volume painting
Cons:- Twelve-milliliter tubes offer less paint per color than the Paul Rubens 50ml set
- Ten colors limit ready-made hue choices
- Only two brushes are included, and drying-time information is not specified
Best for: New oil painters who want a compact, coordinated starter bundle for canvas studies and practice sessions.
Not ideal for: Artists who already own brushes, a palette, and suitable paper, or who need larger paint volumes and a wider color range for ongoing projects.
- Number of tubes:10
- Tube size:12ml
- Included brushes:2
- Pad type:Textured oil pad
- Pad size:A4 (8.27 x 11.69 inches)
- Pad weight:230g/m²
- Palette:Plastic, with 5 round wells and 5 slanted wells
Our verdict“Choose this bundled set for a practical first step into oil painting, but pick a larger paint set if volume and color choice matter more than included tools.”
Paul Rubens Oil Paint Set, 20 Colors x 50ml Large Tubes, Professional Oil-Based Art Supplies
The standout here is paint volume: 20 colors arrive in 50ml tubes, a more practical format for painters who work through familiar pigments quickly than the 12ml Winton starter kit. The listed creamy consistency and high pigmentation support blending and broad coverage, while the stated lightfastness suits work intended to retain its color. Refined linseed oil is the listed material, and the set is described as non-toxic. Its scale is also the main compromise: these large tubes are less convenient to carry, and a stated 7–14 day drying time may not suit artists who want to rework or layer on a faster schedule. Compared with MEEDEN’s 24-color set, Paul Rubens offers fewer colors but substantially larger tubes.
Pros:- Twenty colors are supplied in generous 50ml tubes
- High pigmentation and a smooth, buttery consistency are suited to blending and coverage
- Described as lightfast and non-toxic, with refined linseed oil listed
Cons:- Large tubes are cumbersome for travel and compact workspaces
- The stated 7–14 day drying time may slow layered workflows
- Offers fewer colors than MEEDEN’s 24-color set
Best for: Artists who paint regularly in the same palette and want substantial quantities of each color for larger canvases or repeated projects.
Not ideal for: Traveling painters, occasional users who prefer small tubes, or artists whose workflow depends on shorter drying times.
- Number of colors:20
- Tube size:50ml
- Pigmentation:High
- Lightfastness:Excellent
- Listed material:Refined linseed oil
- Toxicity description:Non-toxic
- Drying time:7–14 days
Our verdict“Pick Paul Rubens if you need substantial quantities of a focused color range and can accommodate large tubes and slower drying.”
MEEDEN Non-Toxic Oil Paint Set, 24 Colors, 22 ml Tubes
MEEDEN earns its place through a 24-color palette in mid-size 22ml tubes. That gives artists more ready-to-use hues than the 10-color Rembrandt introduction set, without moving to the very large tubes in Paul Rubens’s 50ml kit. The paints are described as finely ground with a buttery consistency, and the listed AP, CE, and ASTM D-4236 certifications may appeal to buyers who want specified safety and compliance information. The stated canvas focus makes this a clearer fit for canvas painters than for artists seeking one set for varied surfaces. I’d also treat the listed one-hour full cure time cautiously: it is unusually short for oil paint, and the product data gives no further explanation. The non-water-resistant specification is another reason to keep these paints to appropriate painting applications.
Pros:- Twenty-four colors give more immediate palette choice than the 10-color Rembrandt set
- Twenty-two-milliliter tubes balance variety with more paint than the Winton 12ml set
- Fine-ground paint is described as buttery in consistency
- AP, CE, and ASTM D-4236 certifications are listed
Cons:- Product data recommends canvas, limiting confidence about use on other surfaces
- Listed as not water resistant
- The stated one-hour full cure time is not explained in the product information
Best for: Canvas painters who want many ready-made colors, mid-size tubes, and listed safety certifications for a versatile studio palette.
Not ideal for: Artists seeking paints for water-exposed applications, multiple surface types, or a clearly documented conventional oil-paint drying schedule.
- Brand:MEEDEN
- Paint type:Oil paint
- Number of colors:24
- Tube size:22ml (0.74 fl oz) each
- Included components:24 tubes
- Recommended surface:Canvas
- Certifications:AP, CE, ASTM D-4236
- Finish and coverage:Gloss; 12–14.5 square meters per liter
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“Choose MEEDEN for a broad, mid-size canvas palette, but look elsewhere if you need multi-surface guidance or dependable drying-time details.”
Phoenix Artist Oil Paint Set – 24 Colors x 1.35 Oz. / 40ml Tubes, Professional Quality
Phoenix combines two advantages that are often separated: 24 colors and substantial 40ml tubes. Compared with MEEDEN’s 22ml tubes, this gives each color more capacity for repeated use; compared with Paul Rubens, it adds four colors while using slightly smaller tubes. The product description also cites high pigment load, buttery handling, and excellent lightfastness, which points to a set for artists who want broad color choice without immediately running short on frequently used shades. The limitations are less clearly documented: no drying-time details are supplied, and the safety claims do not replace pigment-by-pigment information. Unlike the Winton bundle, Phoenix includes paints only, so it suits artists who already have brushes and other equipment.
Pros:- Twenty-four colors provide broad palette choice
- Forty-milliliter tubes hold more paint per color than MEEDEN’s 22ml tubes
- High pigment load and buttery texture are listed
- Excellent lightfastness and AP/ASTM D4236 compliance are stated
Cons:- No brushes, palette, or painting surface are listed as included
- Drying-time specifics are not provided
- Pigment-by-pigment details are not included in the supplied product data
Best for: Studio painters who want a broad palette in larger tubes and already own the brushes, palette, and surfaces needed to work.
Not ideal for: Artists seeking an all-in-one starter kit, small travel-friendly tubes, or clearly specified drying times and pigment details.
- Number of colors:24
- Tube size:40ml (1.35 oz.)
- Pigment load:High
- Lightfastness:Excellent
- Safety standards:AP and ASTM D4236 compliant
- Paint type:Oil paint
Our verdict“Choose Phoenix if you want many colors in substantial tubes for studio use, and skip it if you need bundled tools or detailed handling data.”
Rembrandt Artists’ Oils – Set of 10, Introduction Set, 15 ml tubes
Rembrandt’s introduction set is the compact, paint-focused choice for artists who care more about color strength and smooth handling than a large assortment. Ten 15ml tubes make it less of a volume buy than Paul Rubens’s 20-color, 50ml set, but its stated brilliance, finely ground pigments, and buttery brush feel position it as an introduction to artist oils rather than a bundled classroom kit. Compared with the Winsor & Newton Winton set, Rembrandt provides slightly larger tubes but does not list brushes, a pad, or a palette. That distinction matters: experienced painters can put the paints straight into an existing studio setup, while beginners may need to source the rest. Its limited color range also means more mixing for subjects that call for varied hues.
Pros:- High color intensity and brilliance are highlighted in the product description
- Finely ground pigments and a smooth, buttery brush feel are stated
- Fifteen-milliliter tubes are slightly larger than the Winton set’s 12ml tubes
Cons:- Ten colors offer less ready-made variety than the 24-color MEEDEN and Phoenix sets
- No brushes, palette, or painting surface are listed as included
- The supplied data gives limited detail on drying behavior and pigment-specific properties
Best for: Artists with basic oil-painting supplies who want a compact introduction set emphasizing color intensity and smooth paint handling.
Not ideal for: Beginners who need brushes and a surface included, or painters who want a wide selection of ready-mixed colors and larger tubes.
- Brand:Rembrandt
- Paint type:Oil
- Number of colors:10
- Tube size:15ml
- Container type:Tube
- Item form:Liquid
- Full cure time:24 hours
- Coverage:Opaque
- Model:Rembrandt
Our verdict“Pick Rembrandt for a compact, paint-focused introduction with an emphasis on color strength, provided you already have the rest of your oil-painting kit.”
Magicfly Oil Paint Set, 40 Colors, 18 ml Tubes
Forty colors make this Magicfly set the broadest palette in this group, with metallic gold and silver plus extra white for mixing and highlights. That variety suits painters who want to try many hues without building a palette tube by tube. The stated smooth, creamy consistency is geared toward blending and coverage on canvas, while Gamblin’s Introductory Set takes a narrower, more traditional palette approach with larger 37 ml tubes and a birch panel. The tradeoff is that Magicfly provides less information about pigment permanence and professional-grade performance than the Gamblin sets, so the color count alone may not satisfy artists selecting paints for archival work. Its oil paint is also not water resistant, and cleanup requires oil-paint methods rather than water.
Pros:- Forty colors provide broad hue choice without requiring extensive mixing.
- Metallic gold and silver add effects absent from the listed Gamblin introductory palette.
- Extra white supports mixing lighter tints and adding highlights.
- Creamy texture is described as suitable for blending and canvas coverage.
Cons:- Pigment permanence and professional-grade classification are not specified.
- The 18 ml tubes are smaller than the 37 ml tubes in the Gamblin introductory sets.
- Not water resistant; oil-paint cleanup practices are still required.
Best for: Developing painters and hobbyists who want many ready-made colors, metallic accents, and extra white for mixing.
Not ideal for: Professional artists prioritizing documented pigment permanence or a compact, traditional limited palette; the supplied details do not establish those performance attributes.
- Brand:Magicfly
- Paint type:Oil
- Number of colors:40
- Tube size:18 ml (0.6 oz)
- Recommended surface:Canvas
- Finish:Metallic
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
- Safety standard:Conforms to ASTM D-4236
Our verdict“Choose Magicfly for the widest ready-to-use palette and metallic accents, but look to Gamblin if larger tubes and a more focused artist-color set matter more.”
Gamblin Artist Oil Colors Introductory Set, 9 Colors, 37 ml
This set favors palette quality and working volume over a high color count: nine 37 ml tubes cover key yellows, reds, browns, blues, green, black, and white. That traditional spread encourages deliberate mixing, while Magicfly’s 40-color set offers more ready-made hues and metallics for painters who prefer less mixing. Gamblin also includes a pre-primed birch panel, giving an artist a painting surface alongside the paints. Its colors are described as pigment-rich and sustainably produced, and the set is made in the United States. The tradeoff is a more limited selection than broad 20- or 40-color kits, and no brushes are listed. Choose it for a focused studio start, not a complete tool kit or a painter who wants every hue straight from the tube.
Pros:- Nine named colors span a useful traditional mixing palette.
- 37 ml tubes offer more paint per color than the 12 ml tubes in the Winton set.
- Includes a pre-primed birch painting panel.
- Described as pigment-rich and sustainably produced, and made in the United States.
Cons:- Only nine colors, so achieving particular hues depends more on mixing than with Magicfly’s 40-color set.
- No brushes are listed among the included components.
- The set does not include a broad range of painting accessories.
Best for: Artists building a traditional mixing palette who value larger tubes and an included primed panel for a first or next painting.
Not ideal for: Painters who want many premixed colors, brushes in the box, or a ready-to-use all-in-one supply kit.
- Brand:Gamblin
- Paint type:Oil
- Number of colors:9
- Tube size:37 ml each
- Included components:Nine paint tubes and one pre-primed birch painting panel
- Colors:Cadmium Yellow Light, Yellow Ochre, Burnt Umber, Cadmium Red Light, Alizarin Crimson, Ultramarine Blue, Viridian, Ivory Black, Titanium White
- Panel material:Birch
- Country of production:United States
- Dry time:168 hours
Our verdict“Pick this Gamblin set if you want substantial tubes for mixing from a classic palette and can supply your own brushes.”
Gamblin 1980 Oil Color Exclusive Set
The Gamblin 1980 set is the most accessory-focused option here: its eight 37 ml colors arrive with a cradled wood panel and solvent-free gel. Those extras give a painter a surface and a medium to explore alongside the paints, whereas Gamblin’s Artist Oil Colors Introductory Set supplies nine colors and a birch panel but no listed gel. The 37 ml tubes also provide more paint per color than the 12 ml Castle Art and Winton sets. The compromise is clear: only eight colors limits the palette, and the paints are described as student-grade rather than a professional-grade choice. That makes this a practical learning bundle, not the strongest fit for artists seeking a wide selection or explicitly professional oil colors.
Pros:- 37 ml tubes offer more paint per color than the 12 ml sets from Castle Art and Winton.
- Includes a cradled wood panel for painting.
- Solvent-free gel adds a listed medium for working with the colors.
- Made in America.
Cons:- Eight colors make the palette more restrictive than Magicfly’s 40 colors or Winton’s 20.
- The paints are described as student-grade, which may not meet professional artists’ grade expectations.
- The included color names are not provided in the supplied product details.
Best for: Students and developing painters who want larger tubes plus a panel and solvent-free gel in one focused starter bundle.
Not ideal for: Professional artists seeking a broad palette or a set explicitly positioned as professional grade.
- Brand:Gamblin
- Paint line:1980 Oil Colors
- Number of colors:8
- Tube size:37 ml
- Bonus panel:Cradled wood panel
- Bonus medium:Solvent-free gel
- Country of manufacture:America
Our verdict“Choose this bundle for a compact learning setup with a panel and gel, but select another set if professional-grade positioning or palette breadth is your priority.”
Castle Art Supplies 24 x 12ml Oil Paint Set
Castle Art’s clearest advantage is its learning-friendly presentation: 24 colors come with tutorials and a presentation box, making it easier for a newer painter to start exploring techniques. The paints are described as smooth, buttery, lightfast, and fade-resistant, while the screw caps are designed to open easily. Compared with Winsor & Newton Winton’s 20-color set, Castle Art supplies four additional colors and tutorials; Winton, by contrast, is described as having a stiff consistency that retains brush and palette-knife marks. Castle Art’s 12 ml tubes are the limiting factor: they offer less paint per color than the Gamblin 37 ml sets, which can matter during larger or repeated projects. Oil-based paints also call for suitable ventilation and handling, and the supplied details do not identify specific pigments.
Pros:- Twenty-four colors offer more ready-made choices than the 20-color Winton set.
- Tutorials provide guidance for painters developing their skills.
- Smooth, buttery consistency is described as easy to blend.
- Colors are described as lightfast and fade-resistant, with easy-to-open screw caps.
Cons:- 12 ml tubes provide less paint per color than the 37 ml Gamblin sets.
- Oil-based paints may require proper ventilation during use.
- Specific pigment identities are not supplied in the product details.
Best for: Beginners and returning painters who want tutorials, a presentation box, and a varied palette for practice and smaller paintings.
Not ideal for: Artists working on extensive canvases or needing larger tubes and detailed pigment-specific information.
- Brand:Castle Art Supplies
- Paint type:Oil-based
- Number of colors:24
- Tube size:12 ml
- Pigment characteristics:Described as lightfast and fade-resistant
- Consistency:Smooth and buttery
- Tube closure:Easy-to-open screw caps
- Included learning materials:Tutorials
- Packaging:Presentation box
Our verdict“Choose Castle Art for guided practice and a wider beginner-friendly palette, but favor larger-tube sets for sustained, large-scale painting.”
Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Color Paint Set, 20 x 12ml Tubes
Winton stands apart for its stiff consistency, which is intended to retain brush and palette-knife strokes rather than level into a smoother surface. That makes this 20-color set a strong match for painters who want texture to remain visible. Compared with Castle Art’s 24-color set, Winton offers fewer colors and no listed tutorials, but its defining advantage is the stated stroke retention; Castle Art instead emphasizes a buttery texture and beginner guidance. Winton’s paints are described as high-pigment, lightfast, and permanent, useful qualities for general oil-painting work. The tradeoff is the modest 12 ml tube size, which is less generous than the 37 ml Gamblin sets, and the stiff body may frustrate painters doing delicate detail. The description also says it is designed for use with specific mediums and solvents.
Pros:- Stiff consistency is designed to retain brush and palette-knife strokes.
- Twenty essential colors provide a practical general-use palette.
- Paints are described as high-pigment, lightfast, and permanent.
- Suitable for beginners and general painting use.
Cons:- 12 ml tubes hold less paint per color than the 37 ml Gamblin sets.
- Stiff consistency may be difficult for fine detail work.
- The description recommends use with specific mediums and solvents, which may add supply requirements.
Best for: Painters who want brush or palette-knife marks to remain visible and prefer a 20-color general-use set with stated lightfastness and permanence.
Not ideal for: Artists focused on fine, delicate detail or those who want larger tubes, a softer paint body, or an included panel and accessories.
- Brand:Winsor & Newton
- Paint line:Winton Oil Color
- Number of tubes:20
- Tube size:12 ml
- Pigment load:High
- Consistency:Stiff
- Lightfast:Yes
- Permanent:Yes
Our verdict“Choose Winton if visible brushwork and a firm paint body matter more than large tubes, extra accessories, or a softer consistency.”
PHOENIX Studio Oil Paint Set – 20 Colors x 50ml – Professional Oil-Based Art Paints
The 20 large 50 ml tubes make this PHOENIX set a practical choice for artists who use substantial amounts of paint or want room to build textured layers. Its thick, creamy consistency supports visible brushwork, while the stated lightfastness and strong tinting strength suit paintings intended to retain their color. Compared with the Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil Colour Introductory Set, it supplies far more paint per color, but its 20-color selection may offer less palette breadth than a larger, varied set. The tradeoff is storage and drying time: generous tubes take up space, and oil paint requires patience between layers. This fits painters focused on sustained studio projects, not artists seeking a compact starter palette or quick-drying materials.
Pros:- Twenty 50 ml tubes provide ample paint for larger or ongoing projects.
- Thick, creamy consistency supports textured application.
- Strong tinting strength can make small amounts go further when mixing.
- Stated lightfastness and permanence suit work intended for long-term display.
Cons:- A 20-color selection may feel limiting for artists who rely on many premixed hues.
- Slow drying can extend the time between layers and finishing steps.
- Large tubes are less convenient to store or carry than smaller introductory sets.
Best for: Studio painters who work in thick, textured layers and want substantial quantities of each core color.
Not ideal for: Artists with limited storage or those who need a broad range of premixed shades or fast-drying paint.
- Number of colors:20
- Volume per tube:50 ml
- Paint type:Oil-based
- Consistency:Thick and creamy
- Lightfastness:Described as excellent
- Suitable surfaces:Stretched canvas, canvas board, oil color pad, and wood panels
Our verdict“Choose this set if you want generous quantities for textured studio painting, but pick a smaller or broader palette if portability or color variety matters more.”
Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil Colour Introductory Set – Ten 21 ml Tubes (0.7 fl oz)
This set favors professional-grade pigments and a focused selection over large tube sizes or an expansive color count. Ten familiar colors give beginners a manageable palette to learn mixing with, while experienced painters can use it as a compact selection of core paints. Compared with the PHOENIX Studio Oil Paint Set, each 21 ml tube offers substantially less paint, but Winsor & Newton’s carefully selected colors and consistent formulation may better suit artists who value a restrained, recognizable palette. The limit is straightforward: frequent painters may run through the small tubes quickly, and ten colors will not cover every mixing preference. The listed 24-hour dry time is a product specification, not a guarantee for every layer or studio condition.
Pros:- Professional-grade pigments are selected for vibrant, stable color.
- Ten popular colors offer a focused palette for practicing color mixing.
- 21 ml tubes are easier to handle and store than large-format tubes.
- Established brand and consistent formulation make it a familiar choice for studio use.
Cons:- Only ten colors are included, so a wider palette may require additional purchases.
- 21 ml tubes can run out quickly during frequent or large-scale painting.
- The listed 24-hour dry time may not match actual drying across different layers and conditions.
Best for: Artists learning to mix a traditional palette, or experienced painters who want a compact set of professional-grade core colors.
Not ideal for: Frequent painters who need larger paint quantities or artists who want many premixed colors without adding tubes.
- Brand:Winsor & Newton
- Number of tubes:10
- Volume per tube:21 ml
- Paint type:Oil
- Container type:Tube
- Listed dry time:24 hours
- Model number:1290139
Our verdict“Pick this set for a compact, professional-grade core palette, but choose the PHOENIX set if you need far more paint per color.”
Rembrandt Oil Colour 10x15ml Tube Basic Paint Set
Pure, finely ground pigments and a binder of linseed or safflower oil make this Rembrandt set the pick for painters prioritizing color strength and durable materials over tube volume. Its ten 15 ml tubes form a compact palette, but the small amount in each is a sharper limitation than with the Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil Colour Introductory Set, which supplies 21 ml tubes. The appeal here is the stated pigment quality, not breadth or economy of paint. That makes the set more compelling for careful color mixing and smaller work than for large canvases or heavy impasto, where paint consumption can be high. It is also strictly an oil-paint option, so mixed-media artists looking for a multi-medium set should choose elsewhere.
Pros:- Pure, finely ground pigments support strong, vibrant color.
- Linseed or safflower oil binder is specified for the paints.
- Ten colors provide a compact set for focused palette work.
- Durable color formulation suits artists concerned with lasting results.
Cons:- 15 ml tubes provide less paint than the Winsor & Newton introductory set’s 21 ml tubes.
- Small quantities may be impractical for large paintings or frequent use.
- Limited to oil paints rather than serving artists who need other paint mediums.
Best for: Painters who prioritize pigment quality and color strength in a compact set for smaller studies or controlled mixing.
Not ideal for: Artists who paint large canvases, use paint generously, or need tubes larger than 15 ml for regular studio work.
- Number of tubes:10
- Volume per tube:15 ml
- Paint type:Oil color
- Pigment description:Pure, finely ground pigments
- Binder:Linseed or safflower seed oil
- Color strength:Described as high
Our verdict“Choose Rembrandt for a pigment-focused compact palette, and favor a set with larger tubes if your paintings consume paint quickly.”
MyArtscape Artist Oil Paint Set, 48 Colors, 12 ml Tubes
With 48 colors in the box, MyArtscape offers the widest ready-to-use palette among these four sets, helping painters explore varied hues without mixing every shade from a small core selection. That breadth contrasts with the Rembrandt Oil Colour 10x15ml Basic Set, which puts its emphasis on pigment quality and a restrained palette rather than sheer choice. The compromise is tube size: at 12 ml each, these colors provide less paint per shade than the Rembrandt set’s 15 ml tubes and much less than PHOENIX’s 50 ml format. A stated glossy finish and fade resistance may appeal to artists seeking those characteristics, but the supplied details do not identify pigment-by-pigment ratings. This is a color-exploration set, not the best fit for painters who use a few colors in large quantities.
Pros:- Forty-eight colors give a broad selection of premixed shades.
- Smooth blending supports mixing and color transitions.
- Glossy finish and fade-resistant color are stated product features.
- Listed for use on canvas, paper, wood, and other surfaces.
Cons:- 12 ml tubes contain less paint per color than the Rembrandt 15 ml set.
- The high color count may be less useful to painters who prefer mixing from a smaller palette.
- The listed 24-hour dry time can be limiting for artists working through layers quickly.
Best for: Artists who want many premixed color options for small paintings, studies, and palette exploration.
Not ideal for: Painters who work on large canvases, use heavy layers, or prefer fewer colors in larger tubes.
- Brand:MyArtscape
- Number of colors:48
- Tube size:12 ml
- Paint type:Oil
- Finish:Gloss
- Listed dry time:24 hours
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
- Recommended surface:Canvas
- Usage:Indoor
Our verdict“Choose MyArtscape when premixed color choice matters most, but select larger tubes if you need substantial quantities for full-size paintings.”
How We Picked
I compared the 14 listed sets through the needs of artists choosing oil paint for sustained studio work: the named paint line and intended positioning, color count, tube size, and whether the assortment appears suited to a focused palette or broad experimentation. I also considered practical fit, including starter accessories, portability, and how quickly a painter might use a set’s contents. A large tube or high color count can be useful, but neither proves pigment strength, lightfastness, or consistency; I avoid treating those details as confirmed where the supplied product information does not specify them.
The ranking favors sets that make a clear case for artists through their paint line, usable tube format, and palette purpose. Gamblin’s focused introductory set leads because its nine 37 ml colors favor deliberate mixing, while Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil Colour and Rembrandt fill premium-line roles. Larger, wider assortments rank for different needs, such as volume or range, rather than being treated as automatic upgrades. Winton and other introductory or studio-oriented sets can be sensible starting points, but buyers should distinguish those roles from a brand’s artist-line paints and check the exact product details before purchasing.
| professional oil paint set for artist | Paint type |
|---|---|
| Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Col | — |
| Paul Rubens Oil Paint Set | — |
| MEEDEN Non-Toxic Oil Paint Set | Oil paint |
| Phoenix Artist Oil Paint Set | Oil paint |
| Rembrandt Artists’ Oils | Oil |
| Magicfly Oil Paint Set | Oil |
| Gamblin Artist Oil Colors Intr | Oil |
| Gamblin 1980 Oil Color Exclusi | — |
| Castle Art Supplies 24 x 12ml | Oil-based |
| Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Col | — |
| PHOENIX Studio Oil Paint Set | Oil-based |
| Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil C | Oil |
| Rembrandt Oil Colour 10x15ml T | Oil color |
| MyArtscape Artist Oil Paint Se | Oil |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Professional Oil Paint Set For Artists
Choosing oil paints is less about finding the set with the most tubes and more about matching its paint line and palette to your working habits. These factors can help you avoid paying for colors you rarely use or running short of the paints you rely on.
Choose the Paint Line Before the Set Size
Paint lines within the same brand can serve different needs, so compare the named line rather than assuming every set from a familiar maker is equivalent. The Winsor & Newton list here includes both Winton and Artists’ Oil Colour; those names signal different product lines, not just different tube counts. Introductory wording also describes a format or assortment, not a guarantee that every pigment meets your personal studio requirements. If color strength, pigment identity, or lightfastness matters to your work, check the current tube labels and manufacturer specifications. Do not infer those qualities from words such as “professional” in a listing. A cheaper or broader set can still fit practice work, while a more focused artist line may suit paintings intended for long-term display.
Balance Color Count Against Mixing Habits
A larger palette gives you more ready-made hues, but it can also make it harder to learn how colors interact when mixed. Sets such as the 40-color Magicfly and 48-color MyArtscape offer range, while Gamblin’s nine-color introduction favors a narrower selection. If you already mix confidently, a smaller set with colors you use often can be more useful than many near-duplicates. Beginners may enjoy broad color access, but should check whether the selection includes the pigments and neutrals they need rather than relying on count alone. Consider how you paint: plein-air work may benefit from a compact, intentional palette, while studio exploration can make extra colors easier to store and use. More colors are helpful only when they match a real need.
Treat Tube Size as a Use-Rate Decision
Tube volume affects how long a set may last, but the right size depends on your painting scale and how often you reach for each color. The 50 ml Paul Rubens and PHOENIX Studio sets offer more paint per tube than the 12 ml Winsor & Newton Winton 20-color set, but larger tubes take more storage space and can leave seldom-used colors sitting unused. Small tubes lower the commitment for colors you are still learning to use and make a set easier to carry. Estimate your usual paint use before choosing by volume alone. Painters who work in thick applications or on large canvases may value larger tubes; those who paint intermittently may prefer variety in smaller quantities. Check that tube size refers to each color, not the set as a whole.
Plan for the Palette You Actually Need
Set names like “basic” or “introductory” do not tell you whether the included colors fit your subject matter. A landscape painter may prioritize useful greens and earth colors, while portrait work can call for a different balance of warm and cool hues. Before buying, look for a full color list and compare it with the paints already in your studio. A set with overlapping colors may add less value than a smaller group that fills genuine gaps. Also check whether the selection supports a limited-palette approach if learning color mixing is one of your goals. Treat any accessory bundle as a convenience, not a reason to accept an unsuitable paint assortment.
Check the Product Details Behind Broad Claims
Terms such as “professional,” “artist,” and “non-toxic” do not replace specific information about a paint’s pigments, handling, or safety directions. Read the manufacturer’s current product details for pigment identification and lightfastness when archival behavior matters, and follow the label’s handling guidance for every paint. Do not assume that a non-toxic claim means a paint is suitable for every use or that all colors in a set share the same properties. Look at tube labels and the complete color list before relying on a seller’s short description. This extra check matters most when you are buying for commissioned or long-term work. It can also help you spot when a set is better suited to practice than to a particular professional requirement.
Decide Whether a Starter Bundle Helps
The Winton 10-tube bundle includes brushes, a pad, and a palette, unlike the paint-only sets in this lineup. That can simplify a first purchase, but bundled tools may not match an artist’s preferred brush shapes, surfaces, or working method. If you already own supplies, extra accessories can add clutter rather than value. For a first oil-paint setup, account for the rest of your materials too: a suitable surface, mixing tools, cleanup supplies, and a safe workspace all affect day-to-day usability. Compare what the bundle actually includes against what you still need, rather than assuming it covers every setup requirement. Experienced painters may get more from selecting paint separately and choosing tools to suit their technique.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a set labeled “professional” automatically suitable for archival or commissioned work?
No. A marketing label does not tell you the pigment identity, lightfastness, or other properties of each color. Check the manufacturer’s technical information and the tube labels, especially if the finished painting needs to meet a client brief or long-term display requirements. Also confirm that the set includes colors appropriate to your palette rather than assuming every tube has the same performance. If a listing omits information you need, buying individual colors with clear specifications may be a safer choice.
Should I choose a 50 ml set or a larger selection of small tubes?
Choose by how much paint you use and how many of the included colors you expect to use regularly. The 50 ml Paul Rubens and PHOENIX Studio sets suit painters who want larger quantities across a 20-color assortment, while small-tube sets provide more colors or a lighter, more compact supply. Large tubes can be wasteful if several colors rarely leave the box; small tubes can run out quickly if you paint large or use generous applications. Consider the colors you use most and your usual canvas size before deciding. Tube volume alone does not indicate paint quality.
Are the Winton and Artists’ Oil Colour sets interchangeable?
They are separate Winsor & Newton paint lines in this roundup, so do not compare them only by brand name or number of tubes. The Winton options include a 10-tube bundle with accessories and a 20-color set of 12 ml tubes, while the Artists’ Oil Colour introduction has ten 21 ml tubes. The product names and line distinctions matter when you are choosing paint for your practice. Check current product specifications and color lists before buying, since tube size and assortment affect value and fit. If you are unsure which line suits your work, compare paint properties rather than assuming the larger set is the better choice.
Is a 9- or 10-color set enough to paint a wide range of subjects?
It can be enough if the colors form a useful mixing palette and you are comfortable creating secondary hues yourself. Gamblin’s nine-color introduction and the 10-color Rembrandt and Winsor & Newton introductions are more focused than the 24- to 48-color sets here. A smaller palette can help you build consistency and reduce overlap, but may feel limiting if you need specific convenience colors for a subject or technique. Check the included color list before buying and compare it with the subjects you paint. You can also expand a focused set later by adding individual colors you know you need.
Should a beginner buy a set with many colors or start with fewer paints?
Either can work, depending on whether your priority is experimentation or learning to mix. A wide set such as Magicfly’s 40 colors or MyArtscape’s 48 colors gives you many ready-made hues, while a smaller introduction encourages a more deliberate palette. Beginners should focus on whether the colors are clearly listed, whether the tube sizes are manageable, and whether the paint line fits their intended use. Buying many colors does not remove the need to learn value, temperature, and mixing. If you are unsure, start with a manageable assortment and add colors as your painting habits become clearer.
Conclusion
For a focused studio palette, my best overall choice is the Gamblin Artist Oil Colors Introductory Set, whose nine 37 ml tubes favor deliberate mixing over color count. For a best value in larger-volume paints, compare the 20-color, 50 ml Paul Rubens and PHOENIX Studio sets against your preferred color list and paint use; their generous tubes are useful only if you will use the assortment. My best premium-line picks are Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil Colour and Rembrandt, for buyers seeking those named paint lines in compact introductory palettes. For beginners, the Winton 10-tube bundle is a practical starting format if its included accessories suit your setup, while Magicfly or MyArtscape better suit artists who want many colors on hand. Choose by paint line, palette, and tube size—not the largest number on the box—and verify technical details when your work has specific performance requirements.
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