Chalk Markers vs Dry Erase Markers

Chalk Markers vs Dry Erase Markers - Pros and Cons

You have likely seen a shop window decorated with drawings and keywords to advertise their goods, or a dry-erase board with memos or lists to help you keep track of things at home.

These use special markers, not regular colouring markers— either chalk markers or dry-erase markers. Chalk markers and dry-erase markers are different tools, though they may appear to be the same to the untrained eye.

In fact, they do still have some characteristics that set them apart from each other. 

Below, we will go over both chalk markers and dry-erase markers in more detail, discussing some of the advantages and disadvantages of each of these colourful writing utensils. 

Chalk Markers vs Dry Erase Markers

As we mentioned above, chalk markers and dry-erase markers are two separate kinds of markers. They do have similar sizes and tip designs, and both come in many different colour options.

However, there are some defining characteristics that can be pros and cons of each type of marker, depending on your situation and needs. We will go over those below. When it comes to which kind of marker is better for you, there is not a clear-cut answer that is the same for everyone.

Whether you choose a chalk marker or a dry-erase marker will depend upon what you plan to use it for, and which marker is able to help you better achieve your goal. 

Finish 

One of the big features of chalk markers is their finish. When a chalk marker is used and then dries, it has a matte finish similar to that of chalk— hence the name.

Dry-erase markers, on the other hand, do not achieve the same powdery, chalky finish, even when dry.

Sometimes, they may look matte when dry, and other times, they may still appear to be a bit shiny.

This is an advantage, or disadvantage, depending upon your preferences, in an aesthetic sense.

The chalk-like finish of chalk markers is usually preferable for situations such as decorating your storefront window. 

Erasability 

How erasable the marker is is another feature of chalk markers and dry-erase markers that is worth paying attention to. Chalk markers are still erasable, but do not erase as easily as dry-erase markers do. This is because chalk markers are water and weather resistant. They are considered to be semi-permanent.

This can be great if you are planning to use them for something that will need to stand the test of time.

Chalk markers do not usually erase unless with a wet cloth or magic eraser. If you are looking for a marker for more temporary use, you should opt for dry-erase markers, which are designed to erase with more ease. 

Variety 

Last, but certainly not least, is the variety of chalk markers and dry-erase markers. Both come in different sizes and colours.

This can be especially helpful if you need a thin tip for writing words or a jumbo marker for more board strokes in your artwork.

Out of the two, though, it is chalk markers that come in a wider variety of colours and sizes. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can chalk markers be used on dry-erase boards?

If you have a dry-erase board in your home or office, you will certainly want to be sure you use the right kind of markers— the kind that will erase after you are done! Regular markers can be dangerous to use on your dry erase surface.

The most common markers to use on a dry erase board are dry erase markers, which are designed specifically for this purpose.

However, you can also use chalk markers on a dry erase board. Sometimes, the chalk marker will not erase as well, so you may need to use a Magic Eraser rather than just a tissue or wet wipe like you would with a dry-erase marker. 

Are dry erase and whiteboard markers the same?

No, dry erase markers and whiteboard markers are not the same product. They are often mistaken for each other, though! This is because both kinds of markers are similar in size and have similar tip designs.

Both kinds of markers also come in many different colour options! However, a dry erase marker will erase much easier from a whiteboard or dry erase board surface.

This makes dry-erase markers the preferable choice when it comes to situations where the marker is needed for temporary use.

Another difference is that chalk markers have a chalk-like finish and appearance when they have dried. 

Do chalk markers work on a whiteboard?

You probably know that dry erase markers are the way to go when it comes to a whiteboard or dry erase board use. However, you may also be wondering if you can break out your chalk markers to use on the whiteboard when you are in a pinch.

The answer is yes! Chalk markers do work on whiteboards, so they can be used on whiteboards and dry erase boards.

It is important to note, though, that dry-erase markers are the default and preferred method for a reason.

Chalk markers do not wipe off as easily as dry erase markers will, which can make cleanup a bit of a pain sometimes!

Do chalk markers erase easily?

Chalk markers are often used for dry erase boards, or for other surfaces such as windows, blackboard stickers, or mirrors.

Essentially any non-porous surface can be dressed up with a chalk marker! Sometimes, they are also referred to as liquid chalk markers, rather than just chalk markers. However, chalk markers are not a perfect tool.

Once a chalk marker dries, it can be difficult to erase it from the surface. They do not erase as easily as dry erase markers.

This can be either a pro or a con, depending on the situation! For example, when it comes to temporary use, like on a dry-erase board at a meeting, this could be a drawback. 

What are wet erase markers?

Wet erase markers, also known as wet-wipe markers, are a type of writing tool that are used to write on surfaces that can be wiped clean with a damp cloth or sponge.

Unlike dry erase markers that are used on whiteboards and other smooth surfaces, a wet erase marker is designed to be used on non-porous surfaces such as plastic, glass, and laminated surfaces. a Wet erase marker can produce a more permanent mark that can resist smudging, fading or being accidentally wiped off.

To remove the writing, a wet cloth or sponge is needed to clean the surface, hence the name "wet erase". Wet erase markers are often used for writing on overhead projector transparencies, menu boards, glossy blackboards, and other surfaces where a more durable mark is required.