I had them lying around for a while the Faber-Castell Graphite Matt pencils.
I secretly hoped that they would be blacker than the standard graphite version. But after a first session, I have to note that this is the case to a limited extent. The result does indeed have less shine but completely free of shine, the end result is not real either.
I wonder if they draw differently and after comparison I have to say that there is a bit of a difference. The regular graphite pencils seem to go a bit smoother over the paper in contrast to the Matt version. The lead tip seems blacker but on paper the difference is smaller. Of course, it still remains graphite. However, the gloss build-up is less present during layering, which is pleasant when working layer-on-layer.
The lead feels harder and you tend to press a little harder but my hands are also less smudged with graphite from the drawing.
I think if you want to minimize shine in your drawing this Matt version is a welcome addition. Personally, the Jumbo version remain my favorite and when it comes to nice black then it will be the Pierre Noire by Conte á Paris.
