Best Compasses of 2026

Rebecca Cantu Avatar
Rebecca Cantu
Last Updated: Jan 20, 2026

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Compasses are essential tools for anyone who needs to draw precise circles or arcs. These office products are commonly used by architects, engineers, and artists, but they can also be useful for students and hobbyists. Compasses come in a variety of designs, from simple models with a single pivot point to more complex ones with multiple pivot points and adjustable arms. Some compasses also have built-in rulers or protractors for added convenience. With their precise measurements and ease of use, compasses are a must-have tool for anyone who needs to create accurate drawings or designs.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Mr. Pen Professional Compass for Geometry and Drawing Cover #TOP 1
Mr. Pen Professional Compass for Geometry and Drawing
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Staedtler Math Set Cover #TOP 2
Staedtler Math Set
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ACME UNITED 12201 Scholastic Compass Cover #TOP 3
ACME UNITED 12201 Scholastic Compass
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Compasses

Mr. Pen Professional Compass for Geometry and Drawing

GS01
Silver
Mr. Pen Professional Compass for Geometry and Drawing Cover
Mr. Pen- Professional Compass for Geometry, Extra Lead, Metal Compass, Compass, Compass Drawing Tool, Drawing Compass, Drafting Compass, Compass for Students, Compass Geometry

Mr. Pen Professional Compass is a high-quality metal compass that is perfect for math, geometry, art, drafting, and drawing. It can create circles up to 8 inches in diameter with easy to adjust legs, preventing unintentional leg movements. The compass comes with a spring bow head and center wheel that allows for precise drawings. Packaged in a clear, reusable pouch, this compass is easy to carry and store. It also comes with lifelong satisfaction guaranteed.

What We Like
Great value
Easy to use
Sturdy and rigid
Extra lead and accessories
Perfect circles for art
What We Don't Like
Minor paint imperfections
Not professional-grade quality
#TOP 2

Staedtler Math Set

557 10 BN 02
Multicolor
Compact
Staedtler Math Set Cover
STAEDTLER 10-Piece Math Set with Metal Compass, 6" Ruler & Triangle Squares, 45° & 30/60° Set Squares, Alphabet Stencil - Measuring Tools

The Staedtler Math Set is a versatile and reliable set of drawing and measuring tools. This set includes a metal pencil compass, an alphabet stencil, a 45-degree set square, and a 30-degree/60-degree set square. The metal pencil compass allows you to draw precise circles and arcs, while the alphabet stencil helps you create neat and uniform lettering. The 45-degree set square is perfect for creating angled lines and shapes, and the 30-degree/60-degree set square is ideal for drawing equilateral triangles and other geometric shapes. The 6-inch/15cm ruler provides accurate measurements for your drawings and designs. With the Staedtler Math Set, you can easily tackle various math and drawing projects with precision and ease.

What We Like
Strong material
Great value
Useful for students
Handy variety of tools
Compact design
What We Don't Like
Smaller than expected
Case a bit hard to open
#TOP 3

ACME UNITED 12201 Scholastic Compass

12201
Multicolor
Ball Bearing
ACME UNITED 12201 Scholastic Compass Cover
Westcott Nickel-Plated Ball Bearing Compass with Pencil, Back-to-School, School Supplies, Classroom Supplies, Draws Circles up to 13 Inches in Diameter

This compass is all nickel metal plated and features an easy grip top control. It adjusts to draw circles up to 13" in diameter and has a movable arm for greater accuracy. The soft touch grip and non-skid backing provide better control.

What We Like
Accurate for crafts and geometry
Sturdy metal construction
Easy to use after practice
Good price point
What We Don't Like
Pencil holder slightly flimsy
Adjustment can be tricky

Westcott 14558 2-Piece Compass and Protractor Set

14558-012
Assorted
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Westcott 14558 2-Piece Compass and Protractor Set Cover
Westcott Compass and Protractor Math and Geometry Set, Essential School Supplies, Plastic Compass for Circles Up to 13-Inches, Back to School, Classroom, School Supplies, 6-Inch Protractor, Assorted Colors

This Westcott 2-Piece Compass Set is the ideal tool for students. It includes an easy-to-use geometry compass and a durable drawing protractor. The compass features an easy-to-grip top control and a 2-sided measurement tool capable of measuring up to 6 inches. It also has a point capable of making circles up to 13 inches in diameter. The protractor is a 180-degree design with a shatter-resistant construction and a 6-inch ruler. Both the compass and protractor are not only highly functional but also fun to use, thanks to their colorful accents and exciting designs. This set is a great addition to classrooms, offices, studios, and homes. Whether you need to draw precise circles or measure angles, this Westcott 2-Piece Compass Set has got you covered.

What We Like
Durable plastic construction
Accurate angle measurements
Easy-to-adjust compass
Reasonable price
Clear, readable markings
What We Don't Like
Compass stability could be improved
Occasional product variation
#TOP 5

Mr. Pen- Professional Compass for Woodworking

GA01
Silver
8 Inch
Mr. Pen- Professional Compass for Woodworking Cover
Mr. Pen- Professional Compass for Woodworking, 8 Inch Compass with Wing, Large Compass for Geometry, Compass Drawing Tool, Woodworking Compass, Pencil Compass for Carpenter

This all-metal 8-inch compass is a professional tool for woodwork, carpentry, metal work, leather work, and math. The lockable wing design ensures high dimensional accuracy when drawing arcs and circles repeatedly. The compass can also be used as a scribe or divider to quickly measure and copy measurements. With a pencil holder, you can easily draw circles up to 18” in diameter. Made from high-quality steel, it will not rust or get corroded.

What We Like
Heavy duty construction
High quality steel
Large size for big circles
Long-lasting durability
Excellent precision
What We Don't Like
Slightly sharp edges
Pencil holder fit limited
#TOP 6

Staedtler Advanced Student Geometrical Compass

550WP01
Blue, Silver
Staedtler Advanced Student Geometrical Compass Cover
Staedtler 2-piece Advanced Student Compass

The Staedtler Advanced Student Geometrical Compass is a high-quality compass designed for students. With its all-metal construction, it offers durability and long-lasting performance. The center wheel allows for quick and easy setting, making it convenient to use. The hinged legs provide stability and precision when drawing circles. The leg extensions, made of plastic, add versatility to the compass. Equipped with a high-quality, universal metal adapter, this compass is perfect for drawing circles of various sizes. The Staedtler Geometrical Compass is a reliable tool that will assist students in their geometry work, providing them with accuracy and ease of use.

What We Like
Sturdy and durable build
Simple, user-friendly design
High precision circles
Reliable for students
Comfortable to use
What We Don't Like
Plastic parts on some models
Occasional delivery issues
#TOP 7

Rocksteel Roto Tape Compass

RT-1112023
Rocksteel Roto Tape Compass Cover
Roto Tape Compass | Rotating Tape Measure Beam Compass Alternative Circle Drawing Tool to Draw Arcs (Not 2 inches Short!)

The Rocksteel Tape Compass lets you draw circles and arcs easily using any standard #2 pencil, so you don't have to search for special writing tools. Its compact design, measuring only 5 inches when folded, fits neatly in your toolbox, making it handy for on-the-go projects. You can also flip it to use as a straight edge, helping you mark precise distances from edges without extra tools. Plus, it offers both metric and imperial measurements up to 6 feet, perfect for most drawing needs unless you require very large circles. This versatile tool combines convenience and accuracy in one.

What We Like
Draws perfect circles
Easy to use after setup
Useful for art projects
Works well for arcs
What We Don't Like
Missing central axis needle
No tape length lock
#TOP 8

Mr. Pen- Professional Compass with Lock

GB01
Mr. Pen- Professional Compass with Lock Cover
Mr. Pen- Professional Compass with Lock, Pencil Compass, Woodworking Compass, Compass for Geometry, Wing Divider, Compass Drawing, Drafting Compass, Carpenter Compass

The Mr. Pen Professional Compass is a versatile tool that is perfect for woodworking, carpentry, metalwork, and more. It is made from high-quality steel, ensuring durability and preventing rust or corrosion. With its pencil holder, you can easily draw circles up to 19 inches in diameter. Additionally, this compass can be used as a scribe or divider for quick measurements and copying. The spring tension and lockable sliding nut allow for quick leg adjustment and repeat measurements. Whether you need to draw precise circles or accurately measure and copy dimensions, the Mr. Pen Professional Compass is a reliable and convenient tool.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Accurate scribing
Easy adjustment
Good value
Holds angle well
What We Don't Like
Pencil holder size limited
Minor adjustment stiffness
#TOP 9

Mr. Pen- Geometry Compass with Pencil

GM01
Silver
Mr. Pen- Geometry Compass with Pencil Cover
Mr. Pen- Compass for Geometry, Compass with Pencil, Compass Drawing Tool, Drawing Compass, Math Compass, Drafting Tools, Drawing Tools, Geometry Compass, Circle Drawing Tool

The Mr. Pen Geometry Compass is a high-quality tool designed for math, geometry, art, drafting, and drawing. With its center wheel design, you can easily move the legs to any desired dimension, preventing unintentional leg movements. This compass can create circles up to 11 inches in diameter, making it ideal for a wide range of projects. The included pencil-holder leg design allows you to conveniently draw precise circles and arcs. Made of durable zinc alloy, this compass is built to last and comes with a lifelong satisfaction guarantee. It is packaged in a clear, reusable pouch, making it easy to carry and store. Whether you're a student or a professional, the Mr. Pen Geometry Compass is a must-have tool for all your mathematical and artistic endeavors.

What We Like
Sturdy and durable design
Easy radius adjustment
Wide pen/pencil holder
Excellent customer service
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Plastic pencil holder durability
Lacks built-in locking mechanism
#TOP 10

Mr. Pen Professional Geometry Set Metal Compass

GE01
Mr. Pen Professional Geometry Set Metal Compass Cover
Mr. Pen- Professional Geometry Set Metal Compass, 7 pcs, Geometry Precision Tool Set with Shatterproof Storage Box, Drafting Tools & Drafting Kits

Mr. Pen Professional Geometry Set Metal Compass is an excellent tool for math, geometry, art, drafting, and drawing. The package includes two high-quality professional compasses, an extension beam, interchangeable attachments, and a slip handle for pens, pencils, stylus, or markers. It creates circles up to 20 inches in diameter with precision geometry compass, and the spring bowhead and center wheel prevent unintentional leg movements. The set comes with a clear, reusable box that is easy to carry and store.

What We Like
Versatile set with many options
Good quality for the price
Useful for drawing and geometry
Extension bar for large circles
Quick compass adjustment feature
What We Don't Like
Lack of clear instructions
Minor issues with screw tightening
Buying Guide Image

Ready for the Course: How to Buy the Right Compasses

Introduction

A compass is a crucial tool for navigation, whether you are hiking in the wilderness or sailing on the open sea. Choosing the right compass for your needs can make a big difference in your ability to find your way and stay safe. In this article, we will provide some tips on how to choose the best compass for your needs.

Types of Compasses

There are several different types of compasses available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The most common types of compasses are magnetic compasses and GPS compasses.

Magnetic compasses use the Earth's magnetic field to determine direction. They are typically the most affordable and easiest to use, making them a great choice for beginners or casual hikers. However, they can be affected by interference from other magnetic fields, such as those produced by metal objects or electrical equipment.

GPS compasses use satellite technology to determine their location and direction. They are more accurate and reliable than magnetic compasses, but they require a clear view of the sky and can be more expensive. They are a good choice for more serious hikers or navigators who need precise and reliable information.

Features to Consider

When choosing a compass, there are several important features to consider. These include the type of compass, the accuracy and precision of the readings, the durability and reliability of the compass, and any additional features or functions that may be useful.

The accuracy and precision of a compass are important for navigation. A compass with high accuracy and precision will provide more reliable and consistent readings, making it easier to find your way. However, these compasses can be more expensive and may be overkill for casual hikers or those who only need a basic compass for occasional use.

Durability and reliability are also important when choosing a compass. A compass that is built to withstand rough conditions and is resistant to damage is more likely to last longer and provide consistent readings over time. Compasses with a rugged construction, waterproof design, and shock-resistant features are a good choice for outdoor adventures.

Additional features, such as a built-in inclinometer, a sight, or a declination adjustment mechanism, can also be useful for navigation. An inclinometer is a device that measures the angle of slope, which can be helpful for determining the steepness of a slope or the height of a peak. A sight allows you to take bearings from a specific point, such as a landmark or a distant object. And a declination adjustment mechanism allows you to adjust the compass readings for the difference between magnetic north and true north in your location.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right compass for your needs can make a big difference in your ability to navigate and stay safe. Consider the type of compass, the accuracy and precision of the readings, the durability and reliability of the compass, and any additional features or functions that may be useful. With a little bit of research and consideration, you can find the perfect compass for your next adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the 3 types of compasses?

There are three main types of compasses: baseplate compass, mirrored baseplate compass, and lensatic compass. The baseplate compass is the most common type used today.

2. Which compass is more accurate?

The surveyor's compass is typically the larger and more accurate instrument, often used on a stand or tripod. On the other hand, the prismatic compass is a smaller handheld instrument used for less accurate work.

3. What is the most common compass?

The most common type of compass today is the baseplate compass. It is widely used because of its ease of reading and its clear plastic baseplate, which has orienting arrows and lines for aligning the compass with a map and plotting points.

4. What are compasses used for now?

Compasses are still widely used as navigational tools. They help people find their direction by aligning with the Earth's magnetic field. Compasses have various applications today, including in aviation, shipping, outdoor recreation, and technology.

Editor's Notes

During our compass research, we found 24 compass products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 116,590 customer reviews through our big data system to write the compasses list. We found that most customers choose compasses with an average price of $6.70.

The compasses are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of compasses, including Mr. Pen, STAEDTLER, Westcott, Rocksteel. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 12,431 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Rebecca Cantu Avatar

Rebecca Cantu grew up in a family-owned retail store for home and kitchen products. She worked online and gave assistance to people to buy ideal products for their sweet home after graduating from Northwestern University with a marketing degree. She has been writing content for online shopping guides since 2011 with her professional knowledge and natural sensitivity of appliances.

Compasses Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Mr. Pen STAEDTLER Westcott Westcott Mr. Pen STAEDTLER Rocksteel Mr. Pen Mr. Pen Mr. Pen
Color Silver Multicolor Multicolor Assorted Silver - - - - -
Material Metal Metal, Plastic Nickel - Alloy Steel Metal, Plastic - - - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy