For artists seeking a premium oil paint set on Amazon, I’d put the Gamblin Artist Oil Colors Introductory Set first for its artist-focused paints and included birch panel. The Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil Colour Introductory Set stands out as another serious studio choice, while M. Graham’s five-color set suits painters who prefer a focused palette with walnut-based mediums. The main tradeoff is between a smaller set with an artist-grade focus and larger assortments that offer more colors or paint per tube but may not suit every working method. Tube size, pigment range, and included accessories all affect which set makes sense for your practice. Read on for my full comparison of all 15 options and guidance on choosing among them.
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Key Takeaways
- Gamblin Artist Oil Colors leads the roundup for buyers who want an artist-focused set with nine 37 ml tubes and a birch panel, rather than a broad starter assortment.
- Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil Colour and M. Graham serve different premium priorities: the former gives you a larger introductory range, while the latter pairs a five-color palette with walnut-based mediums.
- Tube size changes the value equation. Paul Rubens offers 20 colors in 50 ml tubes, while MyArtscape’s 48-color set provides much broader color choice in smaller 12 ml tubes.
- Large color counts are not the same as professional range. A 40- or 48-color assortment can save mixing time, but artists building a deliberate palette may prefer fewer, more purposeful colors.
- Bob Ross sets are geared toward landscape painting workflows, and the 200 ml version prioritizes generous paint volume; neither is the most versatile pick for artists seeking a compact, general-purpose palette.
| premium oil paint set on amazon | Brand | Paint type | Tube size | Number of colors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bob Ross Landscape Oil Paint S | Bob Ross | Oil | 200 ml each | 14 |
| MyArtscape Artist Oil Paint Se | MyArtscape | Oil | 12 ml | 48 |
| M. Graham & Co. Oil Paint 5-Co | M. Graham & Co. | Oil | 1.25 fl oz each | 5 |
| RoseArt Premium Oil Paint Set | RoseArt | Oil | Listed as 0.4 oz and 0.4 mL | 24 |
| Gamblin Artist Oil Colors Intr | Gamblin | Oil | 37 ml | 9 |
| MyArtscape Artist Oil Paint Se | MyArtscape | Oil | 21 ml each | 24 |
| Paul Rubens Oil Paint Set | Paul Rubens | Oil-based | 50 ml each | 20 |
| Gamblin 1980 Oil Color Set wit | Gamblin | Oil | 37 ml | — |
| Castle Art Supplies Oil Paint | Castle Art Supplies | Oil | 12 ml | — |
| MEEDEN Oil Paint Set | MEEDEN | Oil | 22 ml (0.74 fl oz) | 24 |
| Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil C | Winsor & Newton | Oil | 21 ml each | — |
| Holbein Artist Oil Color Set H | Holbein | — | — | — |
| Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Col | Winsor & Newton | Oil | 12 ml each | — |
| Magicfly Oil Paint Set | Magicfly | Oil | 18 ml each | 40 |
| Bob Ross Landscape Oil Paint S | Bob Ross | Oil | — | — |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Bob Ross Landscape Oil Paint Set, 14 Colors, 200 ml Tubes
For painters committed to the Bob Ross wet-on-wet technique, this set’s main advantage is how its 14 colors and smooth, firm consistency are tailored to that approach. The 200 ml tubes also provide far more paint per color than the small tubes in the MyArtscape 48-color set, making this a more practical pick for repeated landscape sessions. That quantity comes with a tradeoff: the palette is specialized rather than broad, and its large format may be excessive for occasional painting or artists who prefer mixing from a compact set. Paint is listed as suitable for canvas or paper, but it is not water resistant. I’d choose this over a general-purpose assortment when technique compatibility and generous tube sizes matter more than variety.
Pros:- Formulated for the Bob Ross wet-on-wet landscape technique
- Fourteen coordinated colors support a focused landscape palette
- Large 200 ml tubes provide substantial paint per color
- Smooth, firm consistency is suited to canvas or paper
Cons:- Large tubes and a 10.5-pound listed item weight may be cumbersome for casual use
- Not water resistant
- The focused palette offers fewer colors than the 48-color MyArtscape set
Best for: Adult landscape painters following the Bob Ross wet-on-wet method who want generous quantities of coordinated colors.
Not ideal for: Casual painters with limited storage or artists seeking a compact, general-purpose palette with many distinct colors.
- Brand:Bob Ross
- Paint type:Oil
- Number of colors:14
- Tube size:200 ml each
- Surfaces:Canvas or paper
- Listed dry time:24 hours
- Finish:Gloss
- Item weight:10.5 pounds
Our verdict“Choose this set for frequent wet-on-wet landscape painting and large paint quantities, but skip it if you want a compact or highly varied palette.”
MyArtscape Artist Oil Paint Set, 48 Colors, 12 ml Tubes
The defining draw here is 48 colors in one set, giving painters a ready-made range when frequent color mixing is a hurdle or when a project calls for many distinct hues. Its smooth, blendable texture and lightfast pigments make the assortment more than a color sampler: the stated pigment qualities suit artwork where lasting color matters. Compared with M. Graham & Co.’s five-color set, this MyArtscape kit favors immediate breadth over a deliberately limited palette and included mediums. The tradeoff is tube size: 12 ml per color means less of each paint than the Gamblin 37 ml set, so painters who work through favorite pigments quickly may prefer larger tubes. It is intended for indoor use and is not water resistant.
Pros:- Broad selection of 48 colors
- Smooth texture supports blending
- Lightfast pigments are intended to help colors resist fading
- Suitable for beginners and professionals
Cons:- 12 ml tubes hold less paint per color than the Gamblin 37 ml tubes
- Not water resistant
- Designed for indoor use
Best for: Adult beginners and experienced painters who want many ready-to-use colors for indoor canvas projects without mixing every shade.
Not ideal for: Painters who use a few colors heavily, need larger tubes, or require water-resistant paint.
- Brand:MyArtscape
- Paint type:Oil
- Number of colors:48
- Tube size:12 ml
- Finish:Glossy
- Listed dry time:24 hours
- Recommended surface:Canvas
- Use:Indoor
Our verdict“Pick this for maximum color choice in small tubes, but choose a larger-tube set if you paint often with the same pigments.”
M. Graham & Co. Oil Paint 5-Color Set with Walnut Alkyd and Walnut Oil Medium
This is the most focused choice in the group for painters who want a solvent-free setup rather than a large assortment of premixed colors. Five artist-quality paints use pigments dispersed in walnut oil, and the included walnut alkyd and walnut oil mediums give buyers two ways to adjust their painting approach without adding separate medium purchases. Compared with MyArtscape’s 48-color set, M. Graham gives up instant variety in favor of a small working palette and a more complete medium system. That restraint can be a benefit for painters comfortable mixing, but it makes the set less convenient for anyone seeking many ready-to-use hues. The listed dry time is 12 hours, so painters should check that timing against their own workflow rather than assume it suits every layering schedule.
Pros:- Includes both walnut alkyd and walnut oil mediums
- Designed for solvent-free painting
- Artist-quality paints with increased pigment loads
- Walnut oil formulation is described as helping colors retain clarity
Cons:- Only five colors, so a broad palette requires mixing or additional paints
- Listed dry time of 12 hours may not fit every painter’s layering schedule
- Smaller paint assortment than the MyArtscape 48-color set
Best for: Oil painters building a solvent-free studio routine who are comfortable mixing from five core colors and want included mediums.
Not ideal for: Beginners wanting a broad ready-mixed palette or painters who need many colors without mixing.
- Brand:M. Graham & Co.
- Paint type:Oil
- Number of colors:5
- Tube size:1.25 fl oz each
- Included colors:Azo Yellow, Naphthol Red, Ultramarine Blue, Phthalo Green, Titanium White
- Included mediums:4 oz walnut alkyd medium and 4 oz walnut oil medium
- Listed dry time:12 hours
- Made in:USA
Our verdict“Choose this set for a compact, medium-inclusive solvent-free workflow, not for a wide range of ready-made colors.”
RoseArt Premium Oil Paint Set, 24 Colors
RoseArt takes a practical middle ground: 24 colors offer more variety than M. Graham’s five-color set, while the included brush, palette, and storage tray make this feel more like a ready-to-organize starter kit. The paints are described as concentrated and smooth, with blending and layering in mind, and they can be used on canvas, wood, and paper. That surface range gives it an advantage over MyArtscape’s canvas-focused recommendation for buyers who want to try different supports. The key caveat is the product data itself: tube size is listed inconsistently as 0.4 oz and 0.4 mL, so the amount of paint per color is unclear. Buyers who need dependable tube-volume information or a stated warranty should look elsewhere.
Pros:- Twenty-four colors offer a middle ground between small and very broad palettes
- Includes a brush and palette
- Storage tray helps keep tubes organized
- Listed for use on paper, canvas, and wood
Cons:- Tube size is stated inconsistently as 0.4 oz and 0.4 mL
- No warranty is listed
- Indoor use is specified
Best for: Adult beginners who want a moderate color selection, basic accessories, and a tray to keep supplies organized across several surfaces.
Not ideal for: Painters who need confirmed tube volumes, a stated warranty, or larger known quantities of each color.
- Brand:RoseArt
- Paint type:Oil
- Number of colors:24
- Tube size:Listed as 0.4 oz and 0.4 mL
- Included components:Brush and palette
- Recommended surfaces:Paper, canvas, and wood
- Use:Indoor
- Item weight:16 oz
Our verdict“Choose RoseArt for an organized, accessory-inclusive starter kit, but avoid it if clear tube-volume information is a priority.”
Gamblin Artist Oil Colors Introductory Set – 9 x 37ml Tubes with Birch Panel
Gamblin pairs nine 37 ml tubes with a pre-primed birch panel, so this set is unusually convenient for someone who wants a substantial paint selection and a surface ready to work on. The larger tubes offer more paint per color than MyArtscape’s 12 ml assortment, while the included panel removes one setup step that the M. Graham set does not address. Its nine-color palette is still limited beside MyArtscape’s 48 colors, so painters wanting immediate access to many hues will need to mix or add paints. The product data also lists a 168-hour dry time; that is a long stated wait compared with the 24-hour figures listed for several other sets. The ready-to-paint panel is useful, but it does not make this the quickest option for layered work.
Pros:- Nine 37 ml tubes provide more paint per color than the MyArtscape 12 ml set
- Includes a pre-primed birch panel
- Pigment-rich colors are described as vibrant and long-lasting
- Birch panel is described as sustainably sourced
Cons:- Nine colors provide less ready-made variety than the 48-color MyArtscape set
- Listed dry time is 168 hours
- A broader palette may require additional paint purchases
Best for: Beginners and hobbyists who want larger artist oil tubes and a pre-primed surface in one set.
Not ideal for: Painters who want a wide palette of ready-mixed colors or need paint to dry quickly for their workflow.
- Brand:Gamblin
- Paint type:Oil
- Number of colors:9
- Tube size:37 ml
- Included panel:Pre-primed birch wood panel
- Listed dry time:168 hours
- Item weight:1.1 pounds
- Eco-friendly:Yes
Our verdict“Pick Gamblin for a ready-to-paint bundle with larger tubes and a panel, but choose a broader or faster-drying option if those needs lead.”
MyArtscape Artist Oil Paint Set, 24 Colors, 21 ml Tubes
I’d choose this MyArtscape set for painters who want 24 colors without stepping down to small starter tubes. Each 21 ml tube gives more room for regular practice than Castle Art Supplies’ 12 ml tubes, while the creamy consistency supports both soft blends and visible brushwork. Its high opacity can help cover underlying passages, and the paints are described as lightfast and non-toxic, with ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3 safety standards listed. Compared with Paul Rubens’ 50 ml tubes, though, this set offers much less paint per color; its advantage is the wider palette, not bulk supply. The tradeoff is a formula intended for artistic use rather than general-purpose applications, and the paints are not waterproof, so finished work needs suitable protection.
Pros:- 24 colors provide a broad starting palette
- 21 ml tubes hold more paint per color than Castle Art Supplies’ 12 ml tubes
- Creamy consistency supports blending, layering, and textured strokes
- Described as lightfast and non-toxic, with ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3 standards listed
Cons:- Less paint per color than Paul Rubens’ 50 ml tubes
- Not waterproof
- Intended for artistic applications rather than general-purpose use
Best for: Painters building a varied palette for canvas, paper, boards, or panels who want more paint per color than small 12 ml tubes provide
Not ideal for: Artists who need large-volume tubes for frequent, large-scale work or paint that is waterproof without additional protection
- Brand:MyArtscape
- Paint type:Oil
- Number of colors:24
- Tube size:21 ml each
- Item weight:1.4 pounds
- Finish:Gloss
- Opacity:High opacity
- Safety standards:ASTM D-4236 and EN71-3
Our verdict“Choose this set if you want 24 colors in practical mid-size tubes and can work around its lack of water resistance.”
Paul Rubens Oil Paint Set, 20 Colors, 50 ml Tubes
For painters who use the same colors across large canvases or sustained projects, I’d put this Paul Rubens set ahead of the smaller-tube options on paint volume per color. Its 20 tubes hold 50 ml each—more than double the 21 ml tubes in the MyArtscape set—so frequent use of a core palette means fewer interruptions to replace colors. The creamy, linseed-oil-based paint is described as highly pigmented, with enough body to retain brush and palette-knife marks while still blending smoothly. That makes it a better fit for expressive, textured work than Castle Art Supplies’ compact 12 ml set. The tradeoff is a narrower 20-color selection, and the stated 7–14 day drying time asks for patience between layers. Choose it for generous supply, not a quick-drying workflow.
Pros:- Large 50 ml tubes provide substantially more paint per color than the other listed sets
- High pigmentation and covering power
- Creamy consistency supports smooth blending and retains brush or palette-knife marks
- Described as non-toxic and lightfast
Cons:- 20 colors provide a narrower palette than the 24-color MyArtscape and Castle Art sets
- Stated drying time is about 7–14 days
- Large tube sizes may be more paint than occasional painters need
Best for: Painters working on large canvases or repeated projects who want generous quantities of their core oil colors
Not ideal for: Artists who want the widest ready-made palette or need paint to dry quickly between sessions
- Brand:Paul Rubens
- Paint type:Oil-based
- Number of colors:20
- Tube size:50 ml each
- Recommended surfaces:Canvas and painted wood panels
- Dry time:About 7–14 days
- Full cure time:7 days
- Water resistance:Water resistant
Our verdict“Pick Paul Rubens when paint quantity and expressive texture matter more than a larger color count or faster drying.”
Gamblin 1980 Oil Color Set with Wood Panel and Solvent-Free Gel
I’d rank this Gamblin set for painters who want a ready-to-start package, rather than the most colors or the largest paint supply. It includes eight 37 ml tubes, a cradled primed wood panel, and solvent-free gel, giving a new oil painter a surface and medium alongside the paints. That bundled setup is more self-contained than MEEDEN’s 24-color set, which supplies a broader palette but no panel is listed. Gamblin 1980 is described as student-grade, so I’d treat it as an approachable entry point rather than a professional-grade color range. The eight-color selection also requires more mixing than the 20-color Paul Rubens set. Its main appeal is convenience and a named surface to begin on; its tradeoff is limited color choice and a student-grade positioning.
Pros:- Includes eight 37 ml tubes
- Cradled primed wood panel is included
- Solvent-free gel comes in the set
- Made in America
Cons:- Student-grade rather than professional-grade paint
- Eight colors require more mixing than the 20-color Paul Rubens set
- Fewer colors than the 24-color MEEDEN set
Best for: New oil painters who want a small, coordinated kit with paint, a primed panel, and solvent-free gel
Not ideal for: Experienced artists seeking a professional-grade range or a large selection of ready-mixed colors
- Brand:Gamblin
- Paint type:Oil
- Included colors:8
- Tube size:37 ml
- Included components:Solvent-free gel and cradled primed wood panel
- Finish:Matte
- Dry time:24 hours
- Made in:America
Our verdict“Choose this Gamblin kit if you value an included panel and medium more than a wide palette or professional-grade paint.”
Castle Art Supplies Oil Paint Set, 24 Colors, 12 ml Tubes
Castle Art Supplies earns its place for beginners who want help getting started as well as paint. Alongside 24 colors, this set includes a guide booklet, tutorial leaflet, tester sheet, and presentation box—useful additions for someone learning how to test colors and build layers. Its smooth, highly pigmented formula is described as suitable for blending and stable layering on canvas. Compared with the MyArtscape 24-color set, Castle Art offers more instructional material but much smaller 12 ml tubes, so painters who work often may use up favored colors sooner. The listed 24-hour dry time may also slow artists who want quick turnarounds between layers. I’d choose this over Paul Rubens for a guided, compact introduction, but not for generous paint volume.
Pros:- 24 colors offer a broad palette
- Guide booklet, tutorial leaflet, tester sheet, and presentation box are included
- Smooth consistency supports brush and palette-knife blending
- Pigments are described as lightfast and suited to layering
Cons:- 12 ml tubes contain less paint per color than MyArtscape’s 21 ml tubes
- Listed dry time is 24 hours
- Suitable surface is listed as canvas, limiting the stated surface guidance
Best for: New oil painters who want a broad color set with printed guidance and simple materials for trying techniques
Not ideal for: Frequent painters who want larger tubes, or artists who need a faster layering schedule than the listed 24-hour dry time allows
- Brand:Castle Art Supplies
- Paint type:Oil
- Number of tubes:24
- Tube size:12 ml
- Total volume:9.73 fluid ounces
- Dry time:24 hours
- Lightfast:Yes
- Included items:Guide booklet, tutorial leaflet, tester sheet, presentation box
Our verdict“Choose Castle Art if you’re learning oil painting and value included guidance more than larger tubes or faster drying.”
MEEDEN Oil Paint Set, 24 Colors, 22 ml Tubes
MEEDEN is the straightforward pick for painters who want 24 colors in consistent, mid-size tubes and place value on the listed safety certifications. Its 22 ml tubes offer slightly more paint per color than MyArtscape’s 21 ml version, while the fine-ground pigments and buttery consistency are described as supporting clear color mixing on canvas. Compared with Castle Art’s 12 ml set, MEEDEN supplies more paint per color but lacks the listed tutorial materials, so it suits buyers who already know their way around a palette. The set is described as non-toxic and carries AP, CE, and ASTM D-4236 certifications. A notable data caveat is the listed one-hour dry time, which differs from the longer drying times commonly associated with oil-paint workflows; buyers should verify this detail if timing matters. It is also not water resistant and intended for indoor use.
Pros:- 24 colors provide a versatile mixing range
- 22 ml tubes hold slightly more paint than MyArtscape’s 21 ml tubes
- Fine-ground pigments and buttery consistency are described as supporting clear mixing
- AP, CE, and ASTM D-4236 certifications are listed
Cons:- Not water resistant
- Listed for indoor use
- The stated one-hour dry time may not fit expectations for a typical oil-paint workflow
Best for: Canvas painters who want 24 colors, slightly larger tubes than MyArtscape’s, and listed AP, CE, and ASTM D-4236 certifications
Not ideal for: Artists needing water-resistant paint, outdoor use, or a set with beginner tutorials and a bundled painting surface
- Brand:MEEDEN
- Paint type:Oil
- Number of colors:24
- Tube size:22 ml (0.74 fl oz)
- Recommended surface:Canvas
- Certifications:AP, CE, ASTM D-4236
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
- Dry time:1 hour
Our verdict“Pick MEEDEN for a certified 24-color canvas set with mid-size tubes, provided its indoor-use limits and stated dry time suit your plans.”
Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil Colour Introductory Set, 10 × 21 ml Tubes
I’d choose this set for painters who value a considered selection of artist-grade colors over a large tube count. Its ten named colors span useful warm and cool pigments, earth tones, black, and white, while Winsor & Newton says the paints are formulated to preserve each pigment’s characteristics. Compared with the Holbein Artist Oil Color Set H905, it has one fewer color and lacks that set’s larger Permanent White tube, but its listed colors make the palette feel deliberate rather than simply expansive. The tradeoff is flexibility: contents may vary, so I wouldn’t buy it expecting every listed color without checking the current listing. At 21 ml per tube, it offers more paint per color than the 12 ml Winton set, but fewer distinct hues for beginners still building a palette.
Pros:- Ten professional-quality colors selected to preserve pigment characteristics
- A useful mix of primary-like hues, earth colors, black, and white
- 21 ml tubes provide more of each color than the 12 ml Winton set
- Compact selection avoids an oversized starter palette
Cons:- Listed contents may vary, making the exact palette less predictable
- Ten colors give less immediate variety than the 20-color Winton set
- The supplied specification lists a 24-hour dry time, which may not suit painters seeking faster layering
Best for: Painters who already understand basic color mixing and want a compact set of professional-quality pigments in 21 ml tubes.
Not ideal for: Beginners who want the widest ready-to-use color range, or buyers who need guaranteed tube contents without checking the current listing.
- Brand:Winsor & Newton
- Paint type:Oil
- Tube count:10
- Tube size:21 ml each
- Total volume:7.1 fl oz
- Item weight:1.1 lb
- Listed dry time:24 hours
- Finish:Matte
Our verdict“Choose this if you want a compact artist-grade palette with substantial tubes, but verify the color assortment before ordering.”
Holbein Artist Oil Color Set H905
The H905’s most useful distinction is its 50 ml tube of Permanent White alongside eleven 20 ml colors. That extra white matters to painters who mix tints often or work across larger passages; it can reduce the need to replenish a frequently used color before the rest of the palette. Holbein describes the paints as professional-grade and formulated to the Munsell Color Standard for hue, value, and chroma. Against the Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil Colour Introductory Set, this offers more colors and more white, while the Winsor & Newton option lists a tighter, named assortment. The tradeoff is that the eleven other colors are described as assorted, so I’d check the listing for the exact palette. It suits studio painters better than anyone seeking a small, tightly specified set for travel.
Pros:- Eleven 20 ml colors plus a larger 50 ml Permanent White
- Professional-grade formulation aligned with Munsell hue, value, and chroma standards
- More tubes and a larger white supply than the Winsor & Newton introductory set
- Assorted colors can support a range of painting approaches
Cons:- The assorted colors are not individually identified in the supplied product details
- Eleven colors may still leave gaps for painters seeking a broad, ready-to-use palette
- The larger white tube makes the set less compact than smaller-tube alternatives
Best for: Studio painters who use white heavily for mixing and want a professional-grade assortment with a larger white tube.
Not ideal for: Buyers who need a compact travel palette or want every included color clearly specified before purchase.
- Brand:Holbein
- Product type:Oil paint set
- Number of tubes:12
- Assorted color tubes:11
- Assorted tube size:20 ml each
- Permanent White tube:50 ml
- Color standard:Formulated to meet the Munsell Color Standard
Our verdict“Pick the H905 if regular studio mixing makes a generous supply of Permanent White more useful than a precisely listed palette.”
Winsor & Newton Winton Oil Color Paint Set, 20 Tubes
For a first oil-paint set, I’d favor the Winton’s 20-color spread over a smaller professional palette: beginners can try more mixtures without buying individual colors right away. Its stiff, uniform paint holds brush and palette-knife marks, making it a better fit for visible texture than a softer, more fluid approach. Winsor & Newton says the selected pigments are intended for lightfastness and permanence, though this is positioned for general painting rather than as the brand’s Artists’ Oil Colour line. Compared with the 10-color Winsor & Newton introductory set, Winton gives you twice as many colors but smaller 12 ml tubes. That tradeoff makes it a practical learning set, not the stronger choice for painters who prioritize larger quantities of a compact, artist-grade palette. Plan on compatible solvents, mediums, and oils.
Pros:- Twenty colors give beginners more options for mixing and practice
- Stiff, uniform consistency retains brush and palette-knife marks
- Selected pigments are designed for lightfastness and permanence
- Suitable for canvas, board, or paper primed with gesso
Cons:- 12 ml tubes contain less paint per color than the 21 ml Artists’ Oil Colour set
- The product calls for compatible solvents, mediums, and oils
- Specified for indoor use rather than outdoor painting
Best for: New oil painters who want a broad set of colors for learning mixtures and experimenting with brush or palette-knife texture.
Not ideal for: Experienced painters seeking larger tubes or the more explicitly professional positioning of the Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil Colour set.
- Brand:Winsor & Newton
- Paint type:Oil
- Tube count:20
- Tube size:12 ml each
- Consistency:Stiff and uniform
- Recommended surfaces:Canvas, board, or paper primed with gesso
- Use:Indoor
- Waterproof:No
Our verdict“Choose Winton to explore a wider range of colors as a beginner, and choose the Artists’ Oil Colour set if tube size and professional-grade positioning matter more.”
Magicfly Oil Paint Set, 40 Colors, 18 ml Tubes
Magicfly is the palette-expansion pick: 40 colors in 18 ml tubes, including metallic gold and silver, mean fewer gaps when you want a particular hue without mixing it from scratch. Two extra white tubes also help with tinting and coverage. The creamy paint is described as blending smoothly and covering canvas and other art surfaces, which makes this set accessible to students and beginning painters. Compared with the Winsor & Newton Winton set, Magicfly supplies twice the color count and larger tubes, while Winton offers a clearer emphasis on fine-art pigments, lightfastness, and permanence. That difference matters if long-term color stability is a priority. Magicfly is better for broad experimentation than for a carefully documented professional palette; its colors are assorted, and the supplied details list it as not water resistant and intended for indoor use.
Pros:- Forty colors provide substantially more ready-to-use hues than the Winton set
- Includes metallic gold and silver for accent work
- Two extra white tubes support mixing and coverage
- Creamy texture is described as blending smoothly and covering well
Cons:- The supplied product details do not specify pigment lightfastness or permanence
- Not water resistant, according to the listed specification
- Intended for indoor use, limiting its fit for outdoor applications
Best for: Students and hobby painters who want many ready-to-use hues, metallic accents, and extra white for experimenting on canvas.
Not ideal for: Painters prioritizing documented lightfastness, permanence, or use beyond indoor artwork.
- Brand:Magicfly
- Paint type:Oil
- Number of colors:40
- Tube size:18 ml each
- Special colors:Metallic gold and silver
- Extra white tubes:2
- Surface recommendation:Canvas
- Water resistance:Not water resistant
Our verdict“Choose Magicfly for sheer color variety and metallic options, but favor Winton if pigment permanence is your higher priority.”
Bob Ross Landscape Oil Paint Set, 14 Colors, 37 ml Tubes
This set is the most technique-specific option here: its smooth yet firm consistency is formulated for Bob Ross wet-on-wet painting, and each of the fourteen tubes holds 37 ml. That makes it a more natural match for landscape painters following that method than the Holbein H905, whose larger white tube and Munsell-oriented assortment suit broader studio mixing. The Bob Ross colors are described as pigment-rich and combinable into natural shades, so the set favors a focused landscape palette over Magicfly’s 40-color range of ready-made hues. The tradeoff is exactly that focus: painters working in other subjects or wanting many distinct colors may find fourteen limiting. The listed dry time is 24 hours, and packaging may vary while the manufacturer changes to metal tubes, so I wouldn’t rely on a particular package appearance.
Pros:- Formulated for the Bob Ross wet-on-wet technique
- Fourteen colors in substantial 37 ml tubes
- Smooth, firm consistency suits the intended landscape method
- Pigment-rich colors can be combined to make natural shades
Cons:- The technique-focused palette is less suited to painters seeking a general-purpose assortment
- Fourteen colors offer less ready-made variety than Magicfly’s 40-color set
- Packaging may vary during the switch to metal tubes
Best for: Adult painters following the Bob Ross wet-on-wet landscape technique who want substantial tubes in a focused set.
Not ideal for: Artists seeking a broad general-purpose palette, a large selection of ready-made colors, or a guaranteed package style.
- Brand:Bob Ross
- Paint type:Oil
- Set size:14 paints
- Tube volume:37 ml each
- Consistency:Smooth and firm
- Special feature:Formulated for the Bob Ross wet-on-wet technique
- Listed dry time:24 hours
- Recommended age:Adult
Our verdict“Choose this set for Bob Ross-style wet-on-wet landscapes and larger tubes, but look elsewhere for a broad, general-purpose color selection.”
How We Picked
I compared the 15 sets by the factors that affect a purchase beyond color count: the stated artist or student positioning, number and size of tubes, usefulness of the palette, and whether the set includes practical additions such as a panel or mediums. I also considered how easily each set could support a buyer’s next step, whether that means learning to mix color, replenishing a working studio, or following a landscape-painting method.
The ranking favors sets with a clear fit between their contents and the needs of a particular artist. Gamblin Artist Oil Colors ranks first because its introductory format combines a focused artist-oriented selection with substantial tubes and a painting surface. Other sets rank higher when they offer a distinct advantage—such as larger tube volume, a broader color assortment, or included mediums—but rank lower when their specialization, small tube size, or less clearly defined use makes them a narrower choice. I do not treat the largest assortment as automatically the best set, and buyers should check the listing for current contents and tube sizes before ordering.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Premium Oil Paint Set On Amazon
Set names and color counts can make these products look more alike than they are. I’d start with how you paint and what you already own, then compare the contents against that need rather than choosing by the number of tubes alone.
Choose the palette you will actually use
A large assortment can be convenient, but many painters work from a smaller palette and mix much of what they need. Before buying, check whether the set includes useful mixing anchors such as a warm and cool version of primary colors, along with earth tones and white. A set with many closely related hues may feel generous yet leave gaps in the colors you rely on. If you already own basic paints, a focused set like M. Graham’s may add more value than another broad assortment. Beginners may welcome ready-made colors, but should still learn which pigments they reach for repeatedly. Let your subject matter guide the palette: landscape painters often need different earth colors than portrait or still-life painters.
Compare tube volume, not just the number of colors
Tube size determines how long a set may last, especially for painters who cover large canvases or use generous underpainting. A 20-color set with 50 ml tubes, such as Paul Rubens, prioritizes paint volume, while MyArtscape’s 48-color set spreads its contents across smaller 12 ml tubes. Smaller tubes can be useful for sampling more colors without committing to a large quantity of each. Large tubes make more sense when you already know which colors you use often, but they can leave unused paint if the palette is a poor match. Compare the sizes of the colors you use most, not only the set’s headline tube count. Also check whether the listing specifies consistent tube sizes or a mix.
Know what artist-grade means for your work
Labels such as artist, introductory, and student describe a product’s intended position, but they do not tell the whole story about every color in a box. Pigment information, opacity, lightfastness, and tinting strength matter when you need predictable mixing or want finished work to retain its appearance. If archival properties matter, review the manufacturer’s information for individual colors rather than assuming every tube performs alike. A studio painter may prefer a smaller range with clear pigment details over a larger assortment chosen for variety. New painters can still learn with accessible sets, but should avoid paying extra solely for a premium-sounding label. Use the product details to match paint properties to the work you plan to make.
Decide whether included accessories are useful
A panel or medium can make a set easier to start with, but an included extra is only valuable if it fits your materials and process. Gamblin’s introductory set includes a birch panel, while other Gamblin packaging includes a wood panel and solvent-free gel. M. Graham’s set pairs paint with walnut oil and walnut alkyd medium, which may appeal to painters who want to explore those materials. These additions can reduce the need to source supplies separately, yet they do not replace a suitable brush, palette, or working surface for every project. Check the sizes and purpose of each extra before treating it as a bonus. If you already have preferred mediums, a paint-only set may be the cleaner choice.
Match the set to your painting method
Some sets are designed around a particular kind of painting rather than broad studio use. Bob Ross landscape sets, for example, are tailored to landscape techniques and include colors selected for that approach; their contents may be less convenient for a painter seeking a general palette. A larger tube format can suit a method that lays down generous amounts of paint, while a compact introductory set may suit smaller studies or limited storage. Think about whether you follow a specific instructor or technique before choosing a specialized kit. Buying a method-specific set for unrelated work can leave you short of familiar mixing colors. If your subjects change often, favor a versatile palette over one tuned to a single workflow.
Check what is and is not included
A paint set does not always supply everything needed to begin painting, and product images can make included materials hard to distinguish from props. Read the contents list for brushes, surface, palette, medium, and cleanup supplies; assume nothing that is not named. Oil painting also requires a workspace and cleanup plan suited to the materials you use, so account for those needs before buying a set. Solvent-free gel may suit a buyer avoiding traditional solvent use, but it is not the same as a complete studio setup. Check tube sizes and the exact set version, since similar product names can refer to different formats. This small review of the listing helps prevent buying a second kit to fill basic gaps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which set is the strongest choice if I want artist-focused paints rather than the most colors?
I’d start with the Gamblin Artist Oil Colors Introductory Set, which offers nine 37 ml tubes and a birch panel instead of prioritizing a very high color count. The Winsor & Newton Artists’ Oil Colour set is another option if you want a broader introductory selection. M. Graham takes a different route with five colors and two walnut-based mediums, making it more suited to painters who want to build a focused palette. Compare the paint range and included extras against what you already own. The right choice depends on whether you need more colors, more paint per color, or materials to explore a particular painting approach.
Should I choose a 40- or 48-color set over a smaller artist-focused set?
Choose a larger assortment if having many ready-to-use hues matters more than getting larger amounts of each color. MyArtscape’s 48-color set uses 12 ml tubes, while Magicfly’s 40-color set has 18 ml tubes, so their formats offer different balances of variety and volume. A smaller set may be a better fit if you want to practice mixing or prefer a more controlled palette. More colors can speed up some projects, but may also leave you with hues you rarely use. Check whether the included colors cover your usual subjects before making color count the deciding factor.
Is a Bob Ross set a good general-purpose oil paint set?
It can be a sensible choice if you paint landscapes using techniques associated with Bob Ross, since the sets are shaped around that kind of work. For broader subjects, a more general introductory palette may give you colors that are easier to adapt to portraits, still lifes, and varied studies. The 200 ml tube version puts an emphasis on paint volume, while the 37 ml version is a smaller-format alternative. Neither format alone determines whether the palette fits your work. Check the listed colors against the subjects and methods you use before choosing a specialized set.
Do I need to buy a separate medium when I choose an oil paint set?
Not always, but the answer depends on what the set includes and how you paint. M. Graham’s five-color set comes with walnut oil and walnut alkyd medium, and the Gamblin 1980 set includes solvent-free gel, while many sets focus on paint tubes alone. Included mediums can help you begin exploring a process, but they may not match your preferred handling or studio routine. Read the contents list and the medium’s stated use before adding another bottle to your order. If you already have a medium you like, prioritize the paint colors and tube sizes instead.
What should I check on an Amazon listing before ordering an oil paint set?
Confirm the exact tube count and size, since similar set names can appear in different formats. Read the color list and check whether the set includes a panel, medium, or other supplies rather than relying on the product photos. For work where permanence matters, look for pigment and lightfastness details from the maker for the individual colors. Also check the seller’s description against the manufacturer’s stated set contents, particularly when a listing title is abbreviated. Those details help you judge whether the set fits your work and whether you need to buy anything else to start.
Conclusion
For my best overall pick, I’d choose the Gamblin Artist Oil Colors Introductory Set for its artist-focused format, substantial tubes, and included birch panel. The best value by volume is Paul Rubens, which pairs 20 colors with 50 ml tubes; choose it when paint quantity matters more than a compact artist-grade starter format. For a premium focused palette, M. Graham’s five-color set with walnut-based mediums suits painters who value a deliberate selection and want to explore those mediums. Beginners who want color variety can look at MyArtscape’s 24- or 48-color sets, choosing between larger tubes and a wider assortment. For landscape-method painting, the Bob Ross sets are the specialized picks, with the 200 ml version for painters who need generous paint volume. Match the set to your palette habits, subject matter, and existing supplies before deciding.
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