Are you yearning for new makeup brushes, but your bank account says no? Fret not, because some of the best makeup brush set options are surprisingly affordable. If you opt for one of these sets, you can have your new makeup brush set and splurge on some new eyeshadow, too.

But you can't just visit your local drugstore and pick up the first brush set you see. If you're not careful, cheap brushes can leave streaks, poor coverage, and even loose brush hairs across your face. So why are high-quality makeup brushes so important to a good finish on your makeup? And which budget options actually deliver on their quality promises?

Why You Need to Invest in Good Makeup Brushes

According to professional makeup artists like Troy Surratt, your makeup brushes are the most important part of your cosmetic collection. If you don't have the right brushes, or if your current brushes are low-quality, then you aren't getting the most out of your makeup. This might not seem like a big deal if you use cheaper drugstore makeup. But for those who always reach for expensive prestige brands at the makeup counter, this is bad news.

Poor-quality brushes can absorb more makeup than necessary, wasting valuable product. Plus, the product that doesn't get absorbed might go on patchy, streaky, or otherwise unevenly. Whether you take the time to do your makeup every morning or just for special occasions, the last thing you want is to waste your efforts with lack luster brushes.

If you have sensitive skin, then high-quality brushes are a necessity to avoid redness or acne. And if you have allergies, the best makeup brush set for you is probably a high-quality synthetic one.

Our Picks for the Best Makeup Brush Set on a Budget

Like most cosmetic-related products, not just any makeup brush will do. That's why we've collected the best budget-friendly sets that still offer great quality. You won't have streaky foundation or loose brush hairs with these sets.

Like the people who use them, makeup brush sets are unique. But we think we've done a pretty good job of finding something everyone will love. Check out our picks below to find the best makeup brush set for you.

Anjou 16-Piece Premium Makeup Brush Set

Anjou Makeup Brush Set, 16pcs Premium Cosmetic Brushes for Foundation Blending Blush Concealer Eye Shadow

If you're looking for a sleek, professional-looking brush set, this is the best makeup brush set for you. This Anjou brush set includes 16 different brushes. There are eight different face and cheek brushes, seven different eyeshadow brushes, and one eyebrow brush. Each brush fits snugly in the included faux-leather travel case.

This set features synthetic, cruelty-free bristles, making it one of the best makeup brush set options for vegans or those who want to avoid animal products in their cosmetics and tools. Plus, the non-absorbant bristles won't soak up any of your favorite liquid products. With this brush set, you can complete pretty much any basic look you desire.

This makeup brush set has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from Amazon customers. Users mentioned that these brushes were a great everyday set and comparable to much more expensive sets. Some reviewers noticed a chemical odor coming from the travel case, but most had no issue with this smell. The Anjou 16-Piece Professional Makeup Brush Set retails for between $15 and $20. You can find this brush set at Amazon.

Bestope 14-Piece Makeup Brush Se

BESTOPE Makeup Brushes 18 PCs Makeup Brush Set Premium Synthetic Foundation Powder Kabuki Brushes Concealers Eye Shadows Make Up Brushes Kit

Another of the best makeup brush set options for those looking for synthetic bristles and a convenient carrying case is the Bestope 14-Piece Makeup Brush Set. This brush set includes five larger face brushes, eight precision brushes for eyes and concealer, and one eyebrow/eyelash bristle brush.

If you want a combination of loose, fluffy brushes and dense, flat-headed brushes, then this might be the best makeup brush set for you. Each brush features a matte, non-slip handle for added comfort even during long makeup application projects. Plus, the soft, synthetic bristles won't waste precious product.

This makeup brush set has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from Amazon customers. Reviews mentioned that these brushes had a high-end appearance and super soft bristles. Some reviewers pointed out that the included travel bag isn't the best option for carrying their brushes and that they opted to buy a different one. The Bestope 14-Piece Makeup Brush Set retails for between $22 and $28. You can purchase this brush set from Amazon.

Matto 10-Piece Golden Makeup Brush Set

Matto Makeup Brushes 10-Piece Golden Makeup Brush Set with Foundation Powder Mineral Eye Face Make Up Brushes Holder

This is the best makeup brush set for those who want a stylish way to store and carry their brushes. The Matto 10-Piece Golden Makeup Brush Set includes four face brushes and six brushes for eyeshadow, brows, and eyeliner.

This set of synthetic bristle brushes comes in a fashion-forward, cylinder carrying case. Not only does this case look great, but it also offers sturdy protection for your brushes. Each brush has soft, synthetic bristles and features a gold-finish handle. The entire set, including the case, is just under 8 inches tall, so you can carry it with you to work, the gym, or on vacation.

This makeup brush set has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from Amazon customers. Users enjoyed the sleek travel case and the quality of the brush bristles. Again, this brush set sometimes has a chemical odor, but it dissipates with time. The Matto 10-Piece Golden Makeup Brush Set retails for between $17 and $25. You can purchase this brush set from Amazon.

Duorime 7-Piece Oval Makeup Brush Set

Duorime New 7pcs Black Oval Toothbrush Makeup Brush Set Cream Contour Powder Concealer Foundation Eyeliner Cosmetics Tool

The Duorime 7-Piece Makeup Brush Set doesn't look like the rest of our picks for the best makeup brush set. However, these unique brushes are great for foundation application, contouring, and more. Each brush is a slightly different size, so you have the right tool for every area of your face.

These brushes feature ergonomic black handles and densely packed, raw synthetic bristles. The bristles are shaped to hug the natural curves of your face and hold on to fine mineral powders without losing product. While the brushes from this set are most popular for foundation and other face products, they are also great for applying eye makeup and lip products.

This makeup brush set has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from Amazon customers. Reviewers found that these brushes provided an even, natural-looking finish to their foundation. While the bristles started out a bit stiff for some users, most reported that they softened with use. The Duorime 7-Piece Oval Makeup Brush Set retails for between $7 and $12. You can find this set on Amazon.

DUcare 27-Piece Professional Makeup Brush Set

DUcare Makeup Brushes 27Pcs Professional Makeup Brush Set Premium Synthetic Goat Pony Hair Kabuki Foundation Blending Brush Face Powder Blush Concealers Eye Shadows

If you're looking for a full brush set that includes everything you could possibly need, this DUcare 27-Piece Professional set is the best makeup brush set for you. This surprisingly affordable set includes 7 face brushes, 20 eye brushes, an eyeliner brush, and an eyebrow brush.

Each brush features synthetic, no-shed bristles that are great for sensitive skin. Plus, they won't absorb liquid products, so you can save money on your favorite foundation, concealer, and more. The thick, wood handles allow for easy handling and control when applying your makeup.This makeup brush set has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from Amazon customers. Reviewers loved that these brushes had zero shedding, even with vigorous washing.

However, some users found that their brushes grew stiff after use and would not soften back up. The DUcare 27-Piece Professional Makeup Brush Set retails for between $20 and $25, making it the best makeup brush set for those who want a full brush collection without spending a fortune. You can purchase these brushes on Amazon.

MYSWEETY 16-Piece Unicorn Makeup Brush Set

16PCS Makeup Brush Set, MYSWEETY 2019 12PCS Foundation Colorful Unicorn Blending Cosmetic Eyeshadow Brush + 2pcs Silicone Makeup Sponge + 1pc Makeup Wash Egg

There are five larger powder brushes and seven precision brushes in this set, each featuring synthetic fiber bristles. While the dark purple bristles can sometimes make it hard to see how much product you're applying, they are a stylish alternative to other brushes.

This brush set has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from Amazon customers. Positive reviewers loved the unique appearance of these brushes and how soft the bristles felt against their skin. However, several customers felt the brushes were not dense enough to provide quality makeup application. The MYSWEETY 16-Piece Unicorn Makeup Brush Set retails for between $10 and $15. You can find this adorable brush set at Amazon.

MYSWEETY 16-Piece Unicorn Makeup Brush Set

16PCS Makeup Brush Set, MYSWEETY 2019 12PCS Foundation Colorful Unicorn Blending Cosmetic Eyeshadow Brush + 2pcs Silicone Makeup Sponge + 1pc Makeup Wash Egg

There are five larger powder brushes and seven precision brushes in this set, each featuring synthetic fiber bristles. While the dark purple bristles can sometimes make it hard to see how much product you're applying, they are a stylish alternative to other brushes.This brush set has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from Amazon customers. Positive reviewers loved the unique appearance of these brushes and how soft the bristles felt against their skin. However, several customers felt the brushes were not dense enough to provide quality makeup application. The MYSWEETY 16-Piece Unicorn Makeup Brush Set retails for between $10 and $15. You can find this adorable brush set at Amazon.

Diolan 17-Piece Pink Makeup Brush Set

Makeup Brush Set, Diolan 17PCs Professional Makeup Brushes for Foundation Blending Blush Concealer Eye Shadow, Synthetic Fiber Bristles & Wooden Handle

If you like cute makeup brushes, we have another great makeup brush set for you. While it’s not as over-the-top as the unicorn set above, the Diolan 17-Piece Pink Makeup Brush Set is the best makeup brush set for pink lovers. This set includes 7 larger face brushes and 10 precision brushes.

In addition to pink-hued synthetic bristles, each brush also has a classic wooden handle. These brushes measure almost 10 inches long, so they aren’t the best if you like to carry your makeup collection in your purse or another bag.

This makeup brush set has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from Amazon customers. Reviewers mentioned that these brushes were soft and provided even makeup application. Unfortunately, some customer experienced shedding from the larger face brushes in this kit. The Diolan 17-Piece Pink Makeup Brush Set retails for between $15 and $20. You can purchase this brush set from Amazon.

Discover Your Makeup’s True Potential with a New Makeup Brush Set

No matter what type of makeup brushes you’re in the market for, we’re sure our list will help you find the best makeup brush set for you that doesn’t break the bank. From adorable bright pink brushes to ones that look like they’re straight from a professional makeup artist’s kit, you can find exactly what you’re looking for while still sticking to your budget.

With high-quality brushes, you can truly get the most from your makeup. Plus, you won’t waste product with fall out or absorption. So instead of using your fingers or the ineffective applicators that came with your makeup, why not invest in an affordable new brush set? Trust us; it’ll be worth the cost.