Finding the right eyeshadow palette as a beginner can feel overwhelming with so many options. The Matte Eyeshadow Palette Pro 18 Colors stands out for its versatile shades and pigmentation, making it a solid overall choice. For those who want a budget-friendly option, Wet n Wild Walking On Eggshells offers a simple, reliable palette that’s easy to use. Meanwhile, the UCANBE Toffee Fusion Nude appeals for its neutral tones and large shade variety. The main tradeoffs include balancing pigmentation and blendability versus price and complexity. Continue reading for a detailed breakdown to help you pick the best fit for your needs.
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- Versatility in shades and finishes is key for beginners to experiment confidently.
- Budget-friendly palettes often prioritize ease of use over complex color options.
- Larger palettes with neutral tones tend to offer the most value for learning foundational skills.
- Mini palettes are convenient but can be limiting for creating diverse looks.
- Quality varies widely, so pigmentation and blendability should guide your choice over price alone.
| Matte Eyeshadow Palette Pro 18 Colors Pigmented Shimmer Glitter Eye Shadow Palette |  | Best Overall for Versatility and Color Range | Number of Shades: 18 | Finish: Matte and shimmer | Color Range: Nudes, pinks, reds, yellows, golds, purples, greens, browns | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UCANBE Highly Pigmented Eye Makeup Palette, Matte Shimmer Metallic Eyeshadow Palette |  | Best for Experimenting with Textures and Everyday Looks | Textures: Matte, shimmer, metallic | Palette Shape: Rectangle | Packaging: Lightweight, black | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UCANBE Toffee Fusion Nude Eyeshadow Palette, 48 Neutral Shades |  | Best for Neutral and Everyday Looks with Extensive Variety | Number of Shades: 48 | Finish Types: Matte, shimmer, metallic, satin | Suitable for: Beginners and professional makeup artists | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 6 Matte Neutral Mini Eyeshadow Palette with Brush |  | Best Compact for On-the-Go Natural Looks | Number of Shades: 6 | Finish: Matte | Includes: Brush, mirror | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UCANBE 18-Color Nude Aromas Eyeshadow Palette |  | Best for All-in-One Neutral Versatility | Number of Shades: 18 | Texture: Matte, shimmer, glitter, satin | Includes: Mirror | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Wet n Wild Color Icon Eyeshadow 5-Pan Palette – Walking On Eggshells |  | Best for Simplicity and Versatility | Type: Eyeshadow Palette | Number of Shades: 5 | Finish: Matte, Shimmer, Metallic | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| wet n wild Color Icon 10-Pan Eyeshadow Makeup Palette, Brown Nude Awakening |  | Best for Variety and Long-Lasting Color | Number of shades: 10 | Finish types: Shimmer, Metallic, Glitter, Matte | Cruelty-Free: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| SHEGLAM 9-Color Eyeshadow Palette – Vegan & Cruelty-Free – Coffee Shop |  | Best for Natural, Everyday Looks | Number of shades: 9 | Finish: Matte and Glitter | Vegan: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| UCANBE Eyeshadow Palette with 86 Colors and 15 Brushes Makeup Set |  | Best for Versatility and Value | Number of shades: 86 | Number of brushes: 15 | Finish Types: Matte, Shimmer, Glitter | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| ColourPop Nude Mood Eyeshadow Palette – Brown & Copper with Metallic and Matte Finishes |  | Best for Warm, Neutral Tones | Number of shades: 9 | Finish: Matte and Metallic | Net weight: 0.3 oz | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Wet n Wild Always Naked Palette, Nude Neutral Eye Makeup |  | Best for Versatile Nude Looks | Finish: Matte, shimmer, glitter | Pigments: Warm and cool nude shades | Cruelty-Free: Yes | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| 72 Colors Ultra Secret Eyeshadow Palette, 4 in 1 Color Board Matte Shimmer |  | Best for Color Variety and Creative Freedom | Number of Colors: 72 | Design: Double-door | Palette Sections: 4 x 18 colors | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Covergirl Eye Enhancers Eye Shadow Palette, Natural Nudes |  | Best for Natural, Everyday Looks | Weight: 0.19 Ounce | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
More Details on Our Top Picks
Matte Eyeshadow Palette Pro 18 Colors Pigmented Shimmer Glitter Eye Shadow Palette
This palette stands out for its vibrant, highly pigmented shades that accommodate a variety of looks, from subtle everyday styles to bold, glittering statements. Compared to the UCANBE Nude Aromas, it offers a broader spectrum of hues, making it more adaptable for different skin tones and occasions. Its long-lasting, waterproof formula ensures durability, but it requires primer for optimal application, which could be an extra step for beginners. Some palettes may arrive damaged, so careful handling is advised. Overall, this palette makes the most sense for those who want a versatile, colorful collection that can be used beyond the eyes.
Pros:- Vibrant, highly pigmented colors for maximum impact
- Long-lasting and waterproof formula for durability
- Versatile shades suitable for various looks and occasions
Cons:- Some palettes may arrive damaged during shipping
- Requires primer for best application, adding an extra step
Best for: Beginners seeking a comprehensive, vibrant palette with long-lasting performance
Not ideal for: Those who prefer minimalistic or neutral looks, as the wide color range might feel overwhelming
- Number of Shades:18
- Finish:Matte and shimmer
- Color Range:Nudes, pinks, reds, yellows, golds, purples, greens, browns
- Waterproof:Yes
- Long-lasting:Yes
- Suitable for:Eyes, lips, face, body
Our verdict“This palette is ideal for beginners ready to experiment with bold colors and need a durable, versatile option.”
UCANBE Highly Pigmented Eye Makeup Palette, Matte Shimmer Metallic Eyeshadow Palette
This palette offers a wide range of textures, including matte, shimmer, and metallic shades, providing ample options for creating both subtle and dramatic looks. Unlike the Matte Eyeshadow Palette Pro, which focuses on vibrant colors, this palette emphasizes versatility with cool and warm tones that layer well. Its compact, travel-friendly design makes it suitable for touch-ups or on-the-go use. However, achieving intense color payoff may require some blending, which could be challenging for absolute beginners. Its long-lasting wear isn’t explicitly confirmed, so users may need to experiment with primer. Overall, this palette makes sense for beginners who want to explore different finishes without being overwhelmed by a large color range.
Pros:- Versatile shades and textures for endless looks
- Compact, travel-friendly packaging
- Suitable for both beginners and experienced users
Cons:- May require blending for intense payoff
- Limited info on long-lasting wear
Best for: Beginners who want a versatile, multi-texture palette suitable for daily and special occasion looks
Not ideal for: Those seeking a highly pigmented palette that doesn’t require much blending or layering
- Textures:Matte, shimmer, metallic
- Palette Shape:Rectangle
- Packaging:Lightweight, black
- Suitable For:All skin tones and types
- Use:Eyes, brows, face contouring
Our verdict“Ideal for newcomers eager to experiment with different textures and tones in a compact, user-friendly palette.”
UCANBE Toffee Fusion Nude Eyeshadow Palette, 48 Neutral Shades
This palette provides an impressive 48 shades of warm and cool neutrals, making it a fantastic choice for creating everything from simple daytime looks to more elaborate evening styles. Compared with the smaller 6 Matte Neutral Mini palette, it offers far greater variety, appealing to those who want a broad spectrum of neutrals for layering and blending. Its long-lasting, blendable, and high-pigmentation formula makes application straightforward, especially for beginners. The main tradeoff is its size—less portable than smaller options—and some might find the palette overwhelming due to the sheer number of shades. Nonetheless, it’s a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive neutral collection.
Pros:- Wide variety of 48 neutral shades for versatile looks
- Long-lasting, blendable, and high pigmentation
- Suitable for both everyday wear and formal events
Cons:- Large size may be less portable
- Potential for overwhelming choices due to many shades
Best for: Beginners who want a versatile, extensive neutral palette for daily and special occasion makeup
Not ideal for: Those seeking a small, travel-friendly palette or more colorful shades
- Number of Shades:48
- Finish Types:Matte, shimmer, metallic, satin
- Suitable for:Beginners and professional makeup artists
Our verdict“Perfect for beginners aiming to master neutral looks with a rich, versatile palette that covers many bases.”
6 Matte Neutral Mini Eyeshadow Palette with Brush
This mini palette offers 6 cool-tone nude and grey matte shades that excel at creating natural and smoky looks. Compared to larger palettes like the UCANBE Toffee Fusion, it provides less variety but excels in portability and ease of use. Its creamy, blendable formula ensures smooth application, and the included mirror and brush make it ideal for travel or quick touch-ups. However, the limited color variety means it’s better suited for simple, neutral styles rather than colorful or adventurous looks. Beginners who prefer minimal fuss and portability will find this a practical choice, but those wanting more options should consider larger palettes.
Pros:- Versatile cool-tone shades suitable for various looks
- Creamy, long-lasting, blendable formula
- Compact size with mirror and brush included
Cons:- Limited shade variety for colorful or bold looks
- Mini size means less product per pan
Best for: Beginners seeking a compact, easy-to-use palette for natural or smoky eye looks on the go
Not ideal for: Those wanting a broad range of colors or more dramatic shades
- Number of Shades:6
- Finish:Matte
- Includes:Brush, mirror
- Size:Mini
- Suitable for:Natural and smoky looks
Our verdict“A practical choice for beginners who want a portable, straightforward palette for everyday natural or smoky looks.”
UCANBE 18-Color Nude Aromas Eyeshadow Palette
This palette features 18 highly pigmented shades spanning matte, shimmer, glitter, and satin finishes, offering a versatile selection for everyday and special occasion looks. Compared to the Matte Eyeshadow Palette Pro with its more vibrant hues, this one emphasizes neutral tones with a focus on ease of blending and long wear. The inclusion of multiple finishes allows for creative experimentation, but some shades might need multiple layers for shimmer effects. Its compact size and mirror make it convenient for on-the-go use, making it suitable for beginners who want a well-rounded, neutral palette. However, the limited number of shades might not satisfy those seeking extensive variety or bold colors.
Pros:- Highly pigmented, long-lasting shades
- Versatile textures including matte, shimmer, and glitter
- Easy to blend across all skin tones and suitable for makeup novices
Cons:- May require multiple layers for shimmer effects
- Some shades are similar, limiting variety
Best for: Beginners wanting a versatile, easy-to-blend neutral palette for daily use and special occasions
Not ideal for: Those seeking bold or highly colorful looks or a large palette with more variety
- Number of Shades:18
- Texture:Matte, shimmer, glitter, satin
- Includes:Mirror
- Suitable for:All skin tones
- Application:Eyeshadow or liner
Our verdict“An excellent, all-in-one neutral palette for beginners who desire versatility and ease of use in a compact format.”
Wet n Wild Color Icon Eyeshadow 5-Pan Palette – Walking On Eggshells
This 5-pan palette stands out for offering a compact yet diverse range of finishes, including matte, shimmer, and metallic shades, making it ideal for beginners who want to experiment without feeling overwhelmed. Compared with larger palettes like the UCANBE 86-Color Set, it is less intimidating and easier to carry, but it does mean fewer options for complex looks. The highly blendable, soft pigments ensure smooth application, while long-lasting wear keeps your look fresh all day. However, the limited number of shades may require supplementing with other palettes for more variety. Overall, this palette makes the most sense for newcomers seeking a straightforward, cruelty-free option that covers basic eye looks with minimal fuss.
Pros:- Highly blendable and soft pigments
- Long-lasting wear for all-day use
- Versatile finishes for various looks
Cons:- Limited to 5 shades per palette
- May require primer for intense pigmentation
Best for: Beginners who want a small, easy-to-use palette for everyday versatility
Not ideal for: Experienced users or those seeking a wide range of shades for complex designs
- Type:Eyeshadow Palette
- Number of Shades:5
- Finish:Matte, Shimmer, Metallic
- Cruelty-Free:Yes
Our verdict“This palette is perfect for beginners prioritizing simplicity and portability in everyday eye looks.”
wet n wild Color Icon 10-Pan Eyeshadow Makeup Palette, Brown Nude Awakening
This 10-shade palette offers a significant step up from the 5-pan option like Walking On Eggshells, providing a broader spectrum of finishes including shimmer, metallic, glitter, and matte for more creative freedom. Compared to the UCANBE 86-Color Set, it simplifies choices while still offering plenty of options for day-to-night looks, though it doesn’t match the sheer variety or professional versatility of the larger palette. Its highly pigmented, blendable shades ensure vibrant color payoff and long wear, but some shades lean heavily on shimmer and glitter, making matte-only looks more challenging. This palette is ideal for beginners who want a comprehensive starter option with good durability and multiple finishes without being overwhelming.
Pros:- Highly pigmented and blendable shades
- Long-lasting wear for all-day use
- Includes a variety of finishes for different styles
Cons:- Limited to 10 shades, may need additional palettes for more variety
- Some shades are shimmer-heavy, not ideal for matte-only looks
Best for: Beginners who want a versatile palette with a variety of finishes for everyday and special occasions
Not ideal for: Users who prefer matte-only looks or minimal shimmer effects
- Number of shades:10
- Finish types:Shimmer, Metallic, Glitter, Matte
- Cruelty-Free:Yes
Our verdict“This palette is a strong choice for beginners seeking a diverse range of finishes in a manageable size.”
SHEGLAM 9-Color Eyeshadow Palette – Vegan & Cruelty-Free – Coffee Shop
The SHEGLAM Coffee Shop palette offers nine carefully curated shades with matte and glitter finishes, making it an excellent choice for those new to makeup who prefer soft, everyday tones. While it doesn’t have the extensive color range of larger palettes like the UCANBE 86-Color Set, its versatile neutrals and warm tones make it easier to master simple, polished looks. The blendable, long-wearing formula ensures ease of application for beginners, but the small number of shades limits creative expansion. It’s particularly suited for those who want a cruelty-free, vegan option that’s ready to create natural or slightly glam styles without fuss.
Pros:- Versatile shades suitable for many looks
- Long-lasting, blendable formula
- Cruelty-free and vegan
Cons:- Limited to 9 shades, restricting variety
- No info on palette size or packaging details
Best for: Beginners seeking a compact, easy-to-use palette for natural daytime looks
Not ideal for: Advanced users or those wanting a wide spectrum of bold, colorful options
- Number of shades:9
- Finish:Matte and Glitter
- Vegan:Yes
- Cruelty-Free:Yes
Our verdict“Ideal for beginners who prefer a simple, natural look palette with cruelty-free credentials.”
UCANBE Eyeshadow Palette with 86 Colors and 15 Brushes Makeup Set
This massive 86-shade palette offers unprecedented variety, including matte, shimmer, and glitter options, making it suitable for almost any look from natural to bold. Compared with smaller palettes like ColourPop Nude Mood, it provides far more shades, but the large size can be cumbersome for travel or quick touch-ups. The included 15 professional brushes aid in precise application, ideal for beginners willing to experiment. The long-wearing, waterproof formula is a bonus, yet the overwhelming selection may leave some users feeling uncertain about where to start. This set is best for those ready to explore a wide spectrum of colors and styles without buying multiple palettes.
Pros:- Massive range of vibrant shades
- Includes professional brushes for easy application
- Long-lasting, waterproof, and sweat-proof formula
Cons:- Large and bulky for portability
- Overwhelming variety may be daunting for some beginners
Best for: Beginners looking for an extensive, all-in-one palette to learn different techniques and colors
Not ideal for: Travelers or those with limited space who prefer compact options
- Number of shades:86
- Number of brushes:15
- Finish Types:Matte, Shimmer, Glitter
- Cruelty-Free:Yes
Our verdict“This palette suits bold explorers and makeup students eager for comprehensive color options with professional tools.”
ColourPop Nude Mood Eyeshadow Palette – Brown & Copper with Metallic and Matte Finishes
This 9-shade palette emphasizes warm neutrals in matte and metallic finishes, making it a go-to for creating soft glam or bolder copper eyes. Unlike larger, more colorful palettes such as the UCANBE 86-Color Set, it focuses on a specific color family, simplifying choices and helping beginners develop a cohesive look. The blendable, long-lasting formula adheres well, but the limited number of shades means less room for experimentation unless combined with other palettes. It is ideal for those who want a trend-conscious, cruelty-free option that’s perfect for everyday wear or special occasions.
Pros:- Versatile shades for soft or bold looks
- Long-lasting, blendable formula
- Cruelty-free and trendy
Cons:- Limited to 9 shades, restricting variety
- Requires multiple brushes for different finishes
Best for: Beginners who want a focused palette for warm, neutral, or copper-toned looks
Not ideal for: Users seeking a wide range of colors or bright, bold shades
- Number of shades:9
- Finish:Matte and Metallic
- Net weight:0.3 oz
Our verdict“This palette is best for beginners interested in mastering warm neutrals and copper tones with ease.”
Wet n Wild Always Naked Palette, Nude Neutral Eye Makeup
This palette stands out for offering a well-rounded selection of nude shades in matte, shimmer, and glitter finishes, making it ideal for beginners who want to experiment with different textures without buying multiple products. Compared with the 72 Colors Ultra Secret Eyeshadow Palette, it provides a more manageable range for those just starting out, though it lacks the bold color variety. Its long-lasting, smudge-resistant formula ensures beginners can create looks that stay put, but the limited color palette means creativity is somewhat constrained if you’re seeking more vibrant options. The easy-to-blend, cruelty-free formulas help new users achieve polished results with less fuss.
Pros:- Versatile finishes including matte, shimmer, and glitter
- Long-lasting, smudge-resistant formula
- Cruelty-free and easy to blend
Cons:- Limited to nude shades, which might not appeal to everyone
- Requires some blending skill to achieve seamless looks
Best for: Beginners who prefer a simple, versatile nude palette for daily wear and subtle daytime looks.
Not ideal for: Those eager to experiment with bright or highly pigmented shades, as this palette is focused on neutrals and may feel restrictive.
- Finish:Matte, shimmer, glitter
- Pigments:Warm and cool nude shades
- Cruelty-Free:Yes
- Application:Wet or dry
Our verdict“This palette is perfect for beginners seeking a straightforward, all-in-one nude option for daily makeup.”
72 Colors Ultra Secret Eyeshadow Palette, 4 in 1 Color Board Matte Shimmer
This palette earns its spot for offering an astonishing 72 shades across four sections, making it ideal for beginners eager to explore a broad spectrum of colors without buying multiple palettes. Its double-door design enhances portability, and the waterproof, pigmented, long-lasting formula supports bold experiments. However, the sheer volume of shades can be overwhelming for those new to makeup, and without guidance, beginners might struggle to create cohesive looks. Compared to more curated palettes, this one sacrifices ease of use for variety, making it better suited for more adventurous novices or those who enjoy experimenting.
Pros:- Wide range of 72 vibrant shades
- Double-door design for portability
- Long-lasting, waterproof, pigmented formula
Cons:- Potentially overwhelming for beginners
- Requires a bit of experimentation to master use
Best for: Beginner makeup enthusiasts who want a wide array of shades and are comfortable exploring new colors with some guidance.
Not ideal for: Absolute beginners who prefer a smaller, more curated palette to avoid feeling overwhelmed or unsure of where to start.
- Number of Colors:72
- Design:Double-door
- Palette Sections:4 x 18 colors
- Finish Types:Matte, Shimmer, Glitter
- Vegan:Yes
- Cruelty-Free:Yes
Our verdict“This palette is best for adventurous beginners ready to dive into a colorful world and experiment freely.”
Covergirl Eye Enhancers Eye Shadow Palette, Natural Nudes
This palette is a solid choice for absolute beginners who want to create natural, effortless looks suitable for day-to-night transitions. Its small size and limited shade variety mean it’s less intimidating than larger collections like the 72 Colors Ultra Secret, but it also offers fewer options for variety. The shades blend easily, making it ideal for those still learning how to build depth and dimension, yet the limited color range may feel restrictive for those wanting more diversity in their daily routines. It’s particularly suited for users who prefer quick, natural enhancements rather than bold statements.
Pros:- Versatile shades for day and night
- Blends effortlessly for natural enhancement
- Compact and portable
Cons:- Limited shade variety
- Small size may require frequent reapplication
Best for: Beginners seeking a compact, natural palette for casual, everyday makeup with minimal fuss.
Not ideal for: Makeup users desiring bold, vibrant, or highly varied looks, as this palette’s subtle shades limit creativity.
- Weight:0.19 Ounce
Our verdict“This palette is ideal for beginners who want an easy, natural look with minimal product fuss.”
