When shopping for an Eye shadow palette, one of the first questions is: how many shades do you really need? Palettes come in all sizes—from quads with 4 shades to mega-palettes with 30+. The right number depends on your makeup habits, budget, and storage space.
Browse Eye shadow palettes in different sizes here.
Are Small Eye shadow Palettes Enough?
Small palettes (4–6 shades) are perfect if you like simple, everyday looks. They often include a few mattes for blending and one shimmer for a pop of brightness. These are easy to carry, less overwhelming, and usually more affordable. However, they can feel limiting if you like experimenting.
Shop small everyday palettes here.
What About Medium Palettes?
Medium palettes (8–15 shades) are often considered the “sweet spot.” They provide enough variety to create natural, glam, or colorful looks without being bulky. Many people find medium palettes the most practical since they offer balance between choice and portability.
Explore versatile medium palettes here.
Why Do Some People Prefer Large Palettes?
Large palettes (16+ shades) are great for makeup lovers who want options for every occasion. They often include neutrals, bold colors, mattes, and shimmers all in one. The downside is they take up more space, can feel overwhelming, and some shades may go unused. Still, if you enjoy variety, a large palette can be exciting.
Browse large eyeshadow palettes here.
Does Palette Size Depend on Experience Level?
Yes. Beginners often feel more comfortable starting with smaller palettes so they can focus on a few shades. Makeup enthusiasts or professionals usually prefer medium to large palettes for versatility. Choosing the right palette size depends on how adventurous you want to be.
Find palettes for beginners and pros here.
Which Palette Size Is Best for Travel?
If you travel often, small or slim medium palettes are best. They save space in your bag and reduce the risk of damage. Plus, you usually don’t need 20 shades on vacation—just a few essentials.
Shop travel-friendly palettes here.
How Many Shades Do You Actually Use?
Many people notice they only reach for 5–7 shades in a large palette, even if it has 20+. Think about your daily routine: if you stick to neutral browns and light shimmers, you may not need a huge collection. If you love mixing colors, a bigger palette might be worth it.
See curated palettes with usable shades here.
Final Thoughts: What’s the Right Number of Shades?
There is no one perfect number—it depends on your lifestyle. Small palettes are great for everyday use, medium palettes give you variety, and large palettes are perfect for experimentation. The best palette is the one you’ll actually use and enjoy.
