When searching for a makeup palette, the options can feel overwhelming, with choices ranging from compact eyeshadow sets to full-face collections. The Urban Decay Naked 2 Basics Mini Eyeshadow Palette stands out as the best overall, offering versatile matte neutrals perfect for everyday looks. Meanwhile, the Laura Geller New York Best of the Best 7-in-1 Baked Full Face Palette provides a comprehensive face solution for quick, polished makeup. The main tradeoffs involve balancing palette size, variety, pigmentation, and price—more shades often mean higher cost, but fewer shades might limit versatility. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown of these options and what suits your needs best.
Key Takeaways
- Top-ranked palettes combine high pigmentation with blendability, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced users.
- Versatility varies widely; some palettes focus on eyes, while others offer full-face options for convenience.
- Price correlates with the number of shades and build quality, but the most expensive isn’t always the best choice for every user.
- Size and portability matter, especially for those who travel or prefer compact makeup bags.
- Pigmentation and finish type (matte, shimmer, metallic) are key to achieving different looks and should match the user’s style.
| Urban Decay Naked 2 Basics Mini Eyeshadow Palette – 6 Matte Neutral Shades |  | Best Compact for On-the-Go Neutral Looks | Number of Shades: 6 | Shade Types: Matte | Cruelty-Free: Yes | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Laura Geller New York Best of the Best 7-in-1 Baked Full Face Palette |  | Best All-in-One for Mature Skin | Palette Type: 7-in-1 full face palette | Included Products: 1 bronzer, 1 blush, 2 highlighters, 3 eyeshadows | Eyeshadow Shades: 3 nude shades | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Laura Geller New York The Delectables Earthy Essentials Baked Eyeshadow Palette | 14 Pigmented Eyeshadows for Natural Looks |  | Best Neutral Palette with Shimmer and Matte Finishes | Number of shades: 14 | Finish: Matte and shimmer | Formulation: Baked eyeshadows | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 16 Colors Contour Palette Makeup Kit – Blush, Highlighters, Bronzer for Face – All-in-One Makeup Palette for Women |  | Best for Versatile Daily Contouring and Blush | Number of shades: 16 | Includes: Blushes, Highlighters, Bronzers | Texture: Soft, finely pressed powder | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UCANBE 86-Color Eyeshadow Palette with 15-Piece Makeup Brush Set |  | Best for Extensive Color Variety and Complete Set | Palette Colors: 86 | Brush Count: 15 | Finishes: Matte, shimmer, and glitter | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UCANBE Highly Pigmented Eyeshadow Palette – Matte, Shimmer & Metallic Shades |  | Best Overall for Versatility and Easy Travel | Brand: UCANBE | Product Type: Eyeshadow Palette | Finishes: Matte, Shimmer, Pearl, Metallic Glitter | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UCANBE Spotlight 40-Color Eyeshadow Palette |  | Best for Varied Looks and Long-Lasting Wear | Brand: UCANBE | ASIN: B07YC98BF8 | Shade Count: 40 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| OFRA Pro Palette Next Level Glow Highlighter & Face Palette |  | Best for Multi-Use Highlighters and Face Glow | ASIN: B08WJN6RH6 | Brand: OFRA | Shade Count: 12 | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| BestLand 72 Colors Ultra Secret Eyeshadow Palette, 4-in-1 Color Board with Matte, Shimmer, Glitter, Nude, Natural Shades |  | Best for Extensive Color Options and Variety | Number of Colors: 72 | Design: Double-door opening | Finish: Matte, shimmer, glitter | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
| ColourPop Nude Mood 9-Pan Eyeshadow Palette |  | Best for Soft Glam and Everyday Neutrals | VIEW ON AMAZON | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Urban Decay Naked 2 Basics Mini Eyeshadow Palette – 6 Matte Neutral Shades
This palette stands out for its ultra-portable size, making it perfect for travel or quick touch-ups. Its six neutral matte shades offer reliable pigment and blendability, ideal for creating both subtle and dramatic eye looks. Compared with larger palettes like the UCANBE 86-Color Eyeshadow Palette, it is more limited in variety but excels in convenience and simplicity. However, the small shade selection means you may need additional palettes for more adventurous or colorful styles. The inclusion of a mirror boosts its usability on the go, but the absence of brushes means you’ll need to pair it with your own tools for best results.
Pros:- Compact and travel-ready design
- Versatile neutral matte shades
- High-pigment and blendable formulas
- Cruelty-free and free from harmful chemicals
Cons:- Limited to six shades, restricting variety
- No included brushes or applicators
- Requires primer or setting spray for optimal longevity
Best for: Travelers and those seeking a minimal, versatile everyday eyeshadow option
Not ideal for: Makeup enthusiasts who want a wide spectrum of shades for creative experimentations
- Number of Shades:6
- Shade Types:Matte
- Cruelty-Free:Yes
- Free From:Parabens, Sulfates, Phthalates
- Use:Eyeshadow, Contour, Brows
- Includes:Mirror
Our verdict“This palette makes the most sense for those who prioritize portability and simplicity over extensive color options.”
Laura Geller New York Best of the Best 7-in-1 Baked Full Face Palette
This palette is designed to deliver a comprehensive face and eye makeup solution, especially for mature skin, with its blend of bronzer, blush, two highlighters, and three nude eyeshadows. Its baked formulation provides a silky, crease-resistant finish that rivals larger, more complex palettes like the UCANBE 86-Color Eyeshadow Palette, but with fewer shades. The limited color range, particularly in eyeshadows, means it may not satisfy those looking for bold or colorful looks. Its compact, travel-friendly size makes it convenient for daily use or trips, but some users might find the shades too subtle for more dramatic styling.
Pros:- Combines multiple face and eye products in one compact
- Designed not to settle into fine lines or pores
- Crease-resistant, long-lasting wear
- Convenient travel-friendly size
Cons:- Limited to three nude eyeshadow shades
- Palette shades may not match all skin tones
- Less variety for creative or colorful looks
Best for: Mature skin users who want a simple, all-in-one makeup set for daily wear
Not ideal for: Makeup lovers seeking a palette with vibrant or highly pigmented shades for bold looks
- Palette Type:7-in-1 full face palette
- Included Products:1 bronzer, 1 blush, 2 highlighters, 3 eyeshadows
- Eyeshadow Shades:3 nude shades
- Finish:Silky powder
- Wear:Crease-proof, all-day wear
- Skin Type:Mature skin
Our verdict“This palette suits users who prefer a natural, polished look with minimal fuss, especially on mature skin.”
Laura Geller New York The Delectables Earthy Essentials Baked Eyeshadow Palette | 14 Pigmented Eyeshadows for Natural Looks
This palette offers a broad range of 14 neutral and earthy shades in matte and shimmer finishes, making it versatile for both subtle and more dramatic looks. Compared to smaller palettes like the Urban Decay Naked 2 Basics, it provides more shades and variety, though it may require layering for intense color payoff. Its baked formulation guarantees creamy, crease-proof blending, suitable for everyday wear and natural looks. However, its focus on neutral tones limits options for bold or colorful styles, and some shades may need multiple layers to achieve the desired vibrancy.
Pros:- Wide selection of neutrals and earthy tones
- Creamy, blendable, crease-proof formula
- Includes both matte and shimmer finishes
- Suitable for creating subtle or dramatic looks
Cons:- May require multiple layers for intense color
- Limited to neutral shades, less suitable for bold looks
Best for: Natural makeup enthusiasts and those creating everyday, soft eye looks
Not ideal for: Makeup artists or users seeking vibrant, high-impact color options
- Number of shades:14
- Finish:Matte and shimmer
- Formulation:Baked eyeshadows
- Application tips:Sweep light shade as base, add mid-tone for crease, deepen outer corner, shimmer for drama
Our verdict“This palette is perfect for those who prefer a natural, versatile collection of neutral shades with added shimmer options.”
16 Colors Contour Palette Makeup Kit – Blush, Highlighters, Bronzer for Face – All-in-One Makeup Palette for Women
This all-in-one contour palette offers 16 shades, including blushes, highlighters, and bronzers, designed for a wide range of skin tones. Its soft, finely pressed powders provide a natural, luminous finish suitable for daily makeup routines. Compared to smaller or more specialized palettes, it offers greater variety, making it a flexible choice for those who want to customize their look. Its long-lasting formula and lightweight feel make it ideal for everyday wear and gifting, but the relatively light pigmentation may require layering for more defined contouring or color intensity.
Pros:- Wide range of shades for diverse looks
- Long-lasting, natural finish
- Lightweight and easy to blend
- Suitable for all skin tones
Cons:- Light pigmentation may require multiple applications
- No detailed ingredient or formulation info
Best for: Individuals seeking a comprehensive, easy-to-blend face palette for daily use across various skin tones
Not ideal for: Makeup artists or users who prefer highly pigmented, bold shades for special occasions
- Number of shades:16
- Includes:Blushes, Highlighters, Bronzers
- Texture:Soft, finely pressed powder
- Suitable for:All skin tones
- Long-lasting:Yes
Our verdict“This palette is well-suited for daily wearers who want a versatile, natural finish with plenty of shades to experiment with.”
UCANBE 86-Color Eyeshadow Palette with 15-Piece Makeup Brush Set
This expansive palette, paired with a 15-piece brush set, provides a vast array of 86 shades in matte, shimmer, and glitter finishes. Its extensive color options make it ideal for creative users who want to craft a multitude of looks, from subtle to bold. Compared with smaller palettes like the ColourPop Nude Mood, this one offers unmatched variety, though its large size may make it less convenient for travel or quick touch-ups. The waterproof, sweat-resistant formulas ensure long wear, but the sheer volume of shades can be overwhelming for beginners or those who prefer simplicity. The included brushes add value but may not suit professional standards.
Pros:- Immense variety of cool and warm shades
- Includes a 15-piece professional brush set
- Waterproof, sweat-resistant, blendable, and long-wearing formulas
- Suitable for all skin tones
Cons:- Large size reduces portability
- No user reviews provided, making overall satisfaction uncertain
Best for: Makeup artists, enthusiasts, or anyone who loves experimenting with a broad spectrum of shades and finishes
Not ideal for: Travelers or casual users seeking a compact, easy-to-carry palette
- Palette Colors:86
- Brush Count:15
- Finishes:Matte, shimmer, and glitter
- Features:Waterproof, sweat-resistant, blendable, long-wearing
- Skin Tone Compatibility:All skin tones
Our verdict“This palette excels for those who want maximum shade diversity and are comfortable managing a large, complex collection.”
UCANBE Highly Pigmented Eyeshadow Palette – Matte, Shimmer & Metallic Shades
This palette stands out for its highly pigmented shades and wide range of finishes, making it a strong choice for both beginners and professionals who want a versatile set. Unlike the UCANBE Spotlight 40, which offers more shades and long-wear performance, this palette’s lighter packaging makes it more travel-friendly, though it sacrifices some of the extensive color options. The inclusion of matte, shimmer, pearl, and metallic glitter finishes provides ample flexibility for creating various looks without needing multiple products. However, the glitter shades may create fallout, and the absence of a mirror or applicator can be inconvenient during touch-ups. Overall, this palette is a smart pick for those who prioritize portability without sacrificing quality, but it might require additional tools for precise application.
Pros:- Highly pigmented shades with strong color payoff
- Versatile mix of matte, shimmer, and metallic finishes
- Blendable and layerable for a wide range of looks
- Lightweight, compact packaging ideal for travel
Cons:- Glitter shades may produce fallout during application
- No included mirror or applicator, less convenient for on-the-go use
Best for: Beginners and makeup enthusiasts looking for a compact, all-in-one eyeshadow set suitable for most occasions
Not ideal for: Makeup artists needing a full professional palette with extensive shades and minimal fallout concerns
- Brand:UCANBE
- Product Type:Eyeshadow Palette
- Finishes:Matte, Shimmer, Pearl, Metallic Glitter
- Color Range:Cool and warm-toned shades
- Form:Pressed Powder
- Packaging:Rectangle-cut, lightweight black case
- Skin Type:All skin types
- Usage:Eyes, brows, face contouring
Our verdict“This palette is perfect for those seeking a portable, versatile set that works across skill levels, with some tradeoffs in fallout and accessories.”
UCANBE Spotlight 40-Color Eyeshadow Palette
This expansive palette makes a compelling option for those who want a vast array of shades, from natural neutrals to bold rainbow metallics, outperforming smaller collections like the Urban Decay Naked 2 Basics. Its 40 highly pigmented, crease-resistant shades can be applied wet or dry, catering to both subtle and dramatic looks. The long-lasting, waterproof formula ensures all-day wear, making it ideal for events or busy days. However, its large size makes it less portable, and those seeking only neutral shades may find the range overwhelming. The oversized pans and gift-ready packaging add to its appeal, but users should be prepared for a steeper learning curve if unfamiliar with such a wide color spectrum. This palette suits dedicated makeup lovers who love experimenting with color and want longevity.
Pros:- Wide variety of 40 highly pigmented shades in matte, shimmer, and metallic finishes
- Long-lasting, crease-resistant waterproof formula with up to 24-hour wear
- Versatile shades work wet or dry for natural to dramatic looks
- Oversized pans and gift-friendly packaging
Cons:- Large palette reduces portability and convenience
- Bold, colorful shades may not appeal to those seeking only neutrals
Best for: Makeup enthusiasts who prefer extensive color choices and long-wear performance for creative looks
Not ideal for: Travelers or beginners who prefer smaller, simpler palettes with neutral tones
- Brand:UCANBE
- ASIN:B07YC98BF8
- Shade Count:40
- Matte Shades:18
- Shimmer Shades:22
- Finish Types:Matte, Shimmer, Metallic, Duochrome
- Formula:Long-wear, crease-resistant, waterproof
- Wear Time:Up to 24 hours
Our verdict“Ideal for color lovers and professionals needing a durable, versatile palette with extensive shades for all occasions.”
OFRA Pro Palette Next Level Glow Highlighter & Face Palette
This palette excels in offering 12 iconic highlighter shades that suit all skin tones, surpassing simpler face palettes like the Laura Geller Baked Full Face Palette in versatility. Its buttery, ultra-blendable formula allows users to build from a subtle glow to an intense radiance, making it suitable for both everyday and special occasions. The inclusion of popular shades like Rodeo Drive and Pillow Talk provides instant familiarity, while the refillable pans promote sustainability. Still, the shimmer-heavy formula may highlight skin texture on some, and the large palette might include shades that aren’t necessary for everyone. Overall, this palette is a smart choice for those seeking a professional-quality highlighter set with multi-use potential, though it may be less ideal for matte-focused makeup lovers.
Pros:- 12 versatile highlighter shades including iconic options
- Butterly, ultra-blendable formula that builds from subtle to intense
- Multi-use for cheeks, brow bones, and eyes
- Refillable pans for sustainability
Cons:- Shimmer-heavy formula may accentuate skin texture
- Large size may include shades not used by everyone
Best for: Makeup lovers and professionals wanting a multi-purpose highlighter palette with iconic shades and buildable glow
Not ideal for: Individuals with textured skin who prefer matte finishes or those wanting a full face palette
- ASIN:B08WJN6RH6
- Brand:OFRA
- Shade Count:12
- Notable Shades:Glazed Donut, Rodeo Drive, Cloud 9, Pillow Talk
- Formula:Buttery, ultra-blendable shimmer
- Application Areas:Cheeks, brow bones, inner corners, eyes
- Palette Design:Refillable pans
- Coverage:Buildable, subtle to intense
Our verdict“A perfect choice for those who want iconic highlighters with a professional finish and multi-use application, with some consideration for skin type and texture.”
BestLand 72 Colors Ultra Secret Eyeshadow Palette, 4-in-1 Color Board with Matte, Shimmer, Glitter, Nude, Natural Shades
This 72-color palette provides an incredible variety of finishes and shades, making it suitable for those who love experimenting, especially compared to smaller, more specialized options like the ColourPop Nude Mood. Its double-door design makes it highly portable, and the blend of matte, shimmer, and glitter shades covers natural to dramatic looks effortlessly. The highly pigmented, long-lasting, and blendable shades are a plus, but beginners should be cautious—some colors may be tricky to blend, and a patch test is recommended if sensitive skin is an issue. While not ideal for those seeking a simple, minimalistic palette, this set works well for makeup enthusiasts who want maximum options in a portable package.
Pros:- Versatile 72-color palette with multiple finishes
- Portable double-door case for convenience
- Highly pigmented, long-lasting, and blendable shades
Cons:- Some colors might be difficult to blend for beginners
- Requires caution for sensitive skin and patch testing
Best for: Makeup lovers and hobbyists who want a comprehensive, portable palette with a broad spectrum of shades and finishes
Not ideal for: Beginners or users seeking a simple, easy-to-blend palette with neutral tones
- Number of Colors:72
- Design:Double-door opening
- Finish:Matte, shimmer, glitter
- Suitable for:Natural to dramatic looks
- Vegan:Yes
- Cruelty-Free:Yes
Our verdict“This palette offers an extensive range of shades and finishes, perfect for dedicated users craving variety and portability, with some blending challenges for newcomers.”
ColourPop Nude Mood 9-Pan Eyeshadow Palette
This 9-shade palette makes a solid choice for fans of warm neutrals, especially compared to larger palettes like the UCANBE Spotlight 40, which can seem overwhelming. Its brown and copper tones offer a cohesive, easy-to-wear look for daily wear or soft-glam occasions. The inclusion of matte, metallic, and Super Shock finishes adds variety within a compact package, and the high-pigment, long-wearing formula ensures smooth, even application. However, being limited to warm tones, it isn’t suitable for cooler color preferences or bold, colorful looks. The small pan size means multiple brushes might be needed for different finishes, and the palette’s neutrality could be a drawback for those seeking more vibrant options.
Pros:- Versatile warm-neutral shades suitable for soft and bold looks
- Multiple finishes add variety within a small palette
- Smooth, blendable, high-pigment formula
- Cruelty-free
Cons:- Limited to warm tones, reducing versatility for cool or colorful looks
- Small pans may require multiple brushes for different finishes
Best for: Minimalist makeup users and those seeking a quick, warm-neutral look for daily wear
Not ideal for: Color explorers or those wanting a variety of finishes in a larger palette
Our verdict“A perfect compact choice for warm-neutral lovers who want reliable, blendable shades for everyday looks, with limited color diversity.”
How We Picked
To determine the best makeup palettes, I evaluated each product based on performance, usability, build quality, and value. I prioritized palettes that offer rich pigmentation, blendability, and a good range of shades suitable for various looks. Portability and ease of use were also key factors, especially for beginners. Price was considered in relation to the quality and variety of shades, ensuring options for different budgets. The ranking reflects a balance between versatility, performance, and user experience, aiming to recommend options that suit different makeup needs and skill levels.Factors to Consider When Choosing Makeup Palette
Choosing the right makeup palette involves more than just selecting shades—you should consider how the palette fits your style, routine, and skill level. Factors like palette size, shade variety, finish types, and price all influence whether a palette will become a staple or gather dust. Understanding these considerations can help you avoid common pitfalls like overspending on unnecessary shades or buying palettes that are difficult to work with. The following sections highlight key points to keep in mind to make an informed choice.Size and Portability
Consider how often you’ll carry the palette with you. Compact palettes are ideal for on-the-go touch-ups and travel, while larger palettes often provide more variety for home use. However, bigger palettes can be heavy and less convenient for daily carry. Think about your lifestyle and storage space, and choose a size that balances convenience with the number of shades you want to access regularly.
Shade Range and Versatility
A well-rounded palette should include a mix of matte, shimmer, and metallic shades to create diverse looks. If you prefer natural, everyday makeup, focus on palettes with neutral tones. For more creative or bold styles, opt for palettes offering colorful or unique finishes. Beware of palettes with too many similar shades, which can lead to wasted space and difficulty in creating varied looks.
Pigmentation and Finish
High pigmentation ensures that shades show up vividly without multiple layers, saving time and effort. The finish—matte, shimmer, metallic—affects the overall look and feel of your makeup. Test or read reviews about how well shades blend and whether they require primers or base products. A palette that offers consistent payoff across shades tends to be more reliable and easier to use.
Quality and Durability
Durability matters, especially for long wear. Look for palettes with well-made pans and sturdy packaging that protect shades from damage. Good quality shadows should blend smoothly without fallout or patchiness. Spending a bit more on higher-quality palettes can pay off in better application and longer-lasting looks, but be cautious of overly cheap options that may crumble or fade quickly.
Price and Value
Price often reflects the quality, shade variety, and brand reputation. While budget palettes can be surprisingly good, they sometimes compromise on pigmentation or blendability. Conversely, premium palettes often offer richer textures and more unique shades but at a higher cost. Consider how often you’ll use the palette and whether it offers enough versatility to justify the investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many shades should a beginner look for in a makeup palette?
For beginners, a palette with around 8 to 12 shades is usually ideal. This range provides enough variety to experiment with different looks without overwhelming you. Look for palettes that include a mix of neutral mattes and a few shimmer shades, which are easier to work with as you learn basic techniques. As your skills grow, you can explore larger, more complex palettes that offer more options.
Is it better to buy a small palette or a large one?
Choosing between a small and large palette depends on your needs and how you plan to use it. Small palettes are portable and great for travel or quick touch-ups, but they might limit variety. Larger palettes often provide a broader spectrum of shades and finishes, making them better for creating diverse looks at home. However, they can also be more expensive and less convenient to carry around. Consider your routine and storage space before deciding.
Should I prioritize pigmentation over variety?
Pigmentation is essential because it affects how vibrant and true-to-shade your look will be. However, variety also matters if you want to create different styles. Ideally, look for palettes that combine both — high pigmentation with a good mix of shades. This way, you won’t have to compromise on either aspect. If you’re new, focus on palettes known for their ease of blending and payoff to build confidence first.
Are high-end palettes worth the extra cost?
High-end palettes often deliver better pigmentation, smoother blends, and more durable shades. They may also include more unique or curated shades that aren’t available in drugstore options. However, they aren’t always necessary for everyday use and can be cost-prohibitive for some. If you frequently wear makeup and want quality that lasts, investing in a premium palette can be worthwhile. For occasional users, mid-range or budget options might suffice.
What should I consider if I want a palette for special occasions?
For special occasions, look for palettes with a mix of bold, shimmery, metallic shades, and deep hues that can create dramatic or glamorous looks. A palette with rich pigmentation and versatile finishes will help you craft eye-catching styles. Also, consider how well the shades complement your skin tone and whether the palette offers options to transition from day to night looks. Having some standout shades for accent or highlight can elevate your overall appearance.
Conclusion
For those seeking a reliable all-around option, the Urban Decay Naked 2 Basics Mini Eyeshadow Palette makes an excellent choice thanks to its versatile neutrals and compact design. Budget-conscious shoppers will find the ColourPop Nude Mood 9-Pan Eyeshadow Palette offers surprising variety at a lower price. Beginners should consider palettes like the Laura Geller New York The Delectables Earthy Essentials for easy-to-use shades and straightforward application. For users who want a full-face solution, the Laura Geller New York Best of the Best 7-in-1 Baked Full Face Palette provides a convenient, all-in-one option. Finally, those craving luxury and unique shades should explore premium options to elevate their makeup game.
Born in Nairobi, Kenya, Daniel is passionate about exploring exclusive destinations. He curates bespoke travel experiences for our community, partnering with top-tier resorts and unique travel providers to offer unparalleled adventures. Daniel’s deep knowledge of luxury travel ensures unforgettable experiences for our members.
