Daniel Smith Essentials Set review (2026): is it worth it?
Daniel Smith Essentials Set
The same pigments professionals use, in a smaller starter quantity. At $45-55, you get artist-grade paint for about the same price as a premium student set. The move for anyone past the "am I going to stick with this?" phase.
- Professional-grade pigments at a mid-range price
- Tubes last 8+ months with regular use
- Over 240 colors available in the line
- Tubes only, no palette included
- Setup barrier for total beginners
What's in the box
The Daniel Smith Essentials Set by Daniel Smith is priced at $45-55. It includes a set of watercolor paints in a sturdy case along with Daniel Smith's standard accessories. The packaging is well thought out and protects the pans during transport.
My testing experience
I used the Daniel Smith Essentials Set across multiple painting sessions over two weeks. I painted a landscape wash, a botanical detail study, and a color mixing chart with it (the same three subjects I use for every kit). Scored 9/10 overall.
Paint quality
The pigments in the Daniel Smith Essentials Set are excellent. Colors are concentrated, they rewet smoothly, and the mixing behavior is clean. This is professional-grade paint that performs the way you expect it to.
Portability and design
The Daniel Smith Essentials Set is more of a home or studio set. The case keeps things organized but it's not something I'd call pocket-friendly. Fine for the table, less ideal for the backpack.
Value for money
At $45-55, the Daniel Smith Essentials Set is good value for what you get. Professional-grade pigments at a mid-range price is the main thing going for it at this price point.
Pros and cons
- Professional-grade pigments at a mid-range price
- Tubes last 8+ months with regular use
- Over 240 colors available in the line
- Tubes only, no palette included
- Setup barrier for total beginners
How it compares
Here are some similar kits worth considering alongside the Daniel Smith Essentials Set:
- Schmincke Horadam Half Pan Set (9.5/10) — $80-150, best for professionals
- Tobio's Watercolor Kit (8.5/10) — $30-40, best for best all-in-one portable kit
- Van Gogh Watercolor Pocket Box (8.5/10) — $25-35, best for best value
Who should buy this
The Daniel Smith Essentials Set is a good fit for serious beginners painters. I recommend it without hesitation in its category.
The same pigments professionals use, in a smaller starter quantity. At $45-55, you get artist-grade paint for about the same price as a premium student set. The move for anyone past the "am I going to stick with this?" phase. At $45-55, it is good value for serious beginners.
The Daniel Smith Essentials Set by Daniel Smith includes watercolor paints in a carry case. The exact contents vary by version, so check the Amazon listing for the full breakdown.
Yes. The Daniel Smith Essentials Set is one of the kits I recommend for beginners. Professional-grade pigments at a mid-range price makes it a good starting point.
Amazon typically has the best price at $45-55. I check prices across a few retailers when I update these reviews, and Amazon has been consistently competitive.