Fenty Beauty Lip Liner vs NYX Lipstick: Complete Comparison

You have two of the most talked about lip products sitting in your shopping cart. One is Rihanna’s famous Fenty Beauty Trace’d Out Lip Liner. The other is the cult classic NYX Matte Lipstick. Both promise bold color, long wear, and a beautiful matte finish. But which one actually delivers?

This question pops up on beauty forums, Reddit threads, and TikTok comment sections every single day. The answer depends on what you want from your lip product. A precise liner that sculpts and defines? Or a full coverage lipstick that coats your lips in creamy color?

In this detailed comparison, you will learn how these two products stack up in formula, wear time, shade range, price, and overall value.

Key Takeaways

• Fenty Beauty Trace’d Out Lip Liner costs around $22 to $26, while NYX Matte Lipstick typically sells for $6 to $9. The price difference is significant if you are on a budget.
• Fenty’s lip liner lasts up to 8 hours with a waterproof, transfer resistant formula. NYX Matte Lipstick offers around 4 to 5 hours of comfortable wear before needing a touch up.
• The Fenty liner uses pure pigments that deliver true cast color for all skin tones without looking ashy. NYX uses a slow whipped shea butter and cocoa butter formula that keeps lips soft.
• Fenty works best as a liner and base for lipstick layering. NYX works best as a standalone matte lipstick for full lip coverage.
• Both products are cruelty free. NYX also carries a vegan formula certification. Fenty is fragrance free and talc free.
• If you want a defined lip line with serious staying power, go with Fenty. If you want affordable everyday matte color, NYX is the smarter pick.

Fenty Beauty Trace’d Out Pencil Lip Liner Overview

The Fenty Beauty Trace’d Out Pencil Lip Liner is a longwear, waterproof lip pencil created by Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty line. It uses pure pigments to deliver true cast color that avoids looking ashy on any skin tone. The formula glides on smooth and then sets like a liquid for a velvet matte finish.

This lip liner lasts up to 8 hours and resists transfer, feathering, and fading. The sharpenable tip allows precise lining, defining, and filling. You can use it alone as a full lip color or pair it with your favorite lipstick to extend wear time.

The pencil has a creamy, no drag texture that blends easily. Fenty designed this product with inclusivity in mind. The shade range covers light nudes to deep berries, so every skin tone can find a match.

Pros:

• Lasts up to 8 hours without fading
• Waterproof and transfer resistant formula
• True cast color that works on all skin tones
• Creamy texture that does not drag or pull
• Can be used to line, define, or fill lips completely

Cons:

• Higher price point at around $22 to $26
• Requires a sharpener (not retractable)
• Tip can break in very hot weather
• Limited availability of some shades on Amazon

NYX Professional Makeup Matte Lipstick Overview

The NYX Professional Makeup Matte Lipstick has earned its reputation as one of the best drugstore matte lipsticks available today. It delivers plush, pigment rich matte color that glides on smooth and stays in place with a silky matte finish.

This lipstick uses a formula made with slow whipped shea butter and cocoa butter. These ingredients keep your lips hydrated while maintaining that coveted matte look. The texture is never dry or chalky. It feels creamy and smooth from the first swipe.

NYX offers this lipstick in over 20 shades ranging from nudes and pinks to bold reds and deep berries. The brand is cruelty free and vegan, making it a popular choice for conscious beauty shoppers. With over 19,000 reviews on Amazon and a 4.3 star rating, this lipstick has a loyal fan base.

Pros:

• Very affordable at around $6 to $9
• Creamy formula with shea butter and cocoa butter
• Wide shade range with over 20 options
• Cruelty free and vegan certified
• Smooth application without dryness

Cons:

• Wear time averages 4 to 5 hours
• Can transfer onto cups and clothing
• Some shades may apply unevenly
• Requires touch ups throughout the day

Formula and Texture Comparison

The biggest difference between these two products starts with the formula. Fenty Beauty uses pure pigments in a creamy pencil form that sets like a liquid once applied. This gives it a firm hold on the lips. The finish is velvet matte, meaning it looks soft and smooth without any shine.

NYX Matte Lipstick relies on a butter based formula. The slow whipped shea butter and cocoa butter give it a mousse like quality that feels soft on the lips. The finish is a classic matte without being flat or lifeless.

In terms of texture, Fenty feels slightly firmer because it is a pencil. You apply it with more control and precision. NYX feels creamier because it is a traditional bullet lipstick. It covers more surface area quickly but offers less precision at the lip line.

If you prefer a lightweight, barely there feel, NYX wins. If you prefer a product that locks in place and does not budge, Fenty takes the lead.

Shade Range and Color Payoff

Fenty Beauty offers the Trace’d Out Lip Liner in a growing range of shades. Each shade is formulated with true cast pigments that show up accurately on different skin tones. This is a standout feature because many lip liners look ashy or washed out on deeper skin tones. Fenty solved that problem.

NYX Matte Lipstick provides over 20 shades. You will find classic nudes like “Nude” and “Butter,” bold reds like “Perfect Red,” and deep shades like “Whipped Caviar.” The color payoff is strong for the price. One to two swipes deliver full, opaque coverage.

Fenty’s color payoff is more intense per stroke because the pencil deposits concentrated pigment. NYX spreads color more evenly across the lips but may need a second coat for full opacity in lighter shades.

Both brands earn high marks for shade variety. Fenty focuses on depth and accuracy. NYX focuses on range and accessibility.

Wear Time and Longevity

This category shows a clear winner. Fenty Beauty Trace’d Out Lip Liner lasts up to 8 hours. The waterproof formula resists transfer, feathering, and fading. You can eat, drink, and go about your day without constant mirror checks.

NYX Matte Lipstick lasts around 4 to 5 hours before it starts to fade. It transfers onto cups, straws, and napkins more easily than Fenty. You will likely need one or two touch ups during a full day of wear.

If longevity matters most to you, Fenty is the clear choice. The lip liner locks onto your lips and stays put. NYX offers decent wear for a budget lipstick, but it cannot compete with Fenty’s long wear formula.

A smart strategy is to use the Fenty liner as a base and then apply NYX lipstick on top. This combination gives you the staying power of Fenty with the creamy color of NYX.

Price and Value for Money

Let’s talk about your wallet. The Fenty Beauty Trace’d Out Lip Liner retails for around $22 to $26 depending on the shade and seller. You get 0.044 oz of product in a sharpenable pencil.

The NYX Matte Lipstick sells for around $6 to $9 for 0.16 oz of product. That is nearly four times the product for a fraction of the price.

On a cost per use basis, NYX delivers more value if you are looking for everyday color. Fenty delivers more value if you need long wear performance for special events, work, or long days out. Your budget and your lifestyle determine which product gives you the better deal.

For students, beginners, or anyone building a makeup collection on a budget, NYX is the smarter starting point. For makeup lovers who want premium performance, Fenty justifies its price tag.

NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream as an Alternative

If you enjoy NYX products, the NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream is another option worth considering. This liquid lipstick delivers a creamy matte finish in a lightweight formula. The shade “Abu Dhabi” is one of the best selling nudes in the entire NYX lineup.

The Soft Matte Lip Cream applies with a doe foot applicator, giving you more control than a bullet lipstick. It dries down to a matte finish that lasts slightly longer than the NYX Matte Lipstick. Many beauty fans consider it the best product in the NYX lip range.

This option bridges the gap between the precision of Fenty’s lip liner and the coverage of the NYX Matte Lipstick. It is still very affordable and comes in dozens of city inspired shades.

Pros:

• Affordable price under $10
• Lightweight and comfortable to wear
• Doe foot applicator provides good control
• Dozens of shades available
• Slightly longer wear than NYX Matte Lipstick

Cons:

• Can feel slightly drying after a few hours
• Some shades appear different from online swatches
• Not waterproof
• May settle into lip lines over time

Application and Ease of Use

Fenty Beauty Lip Liner gives you sharp, clean edges. The pencil tip allows you to draw precise lines along your lip border. You can overline slightly for a fuller look or stay right on the natural lip line. The tip stays pointed after sharpening and does not crumble.

NYX Matte Lipstick applies like a standard bullet lipstick. You twist the tube, swipe across your lips, and blend with your finger if needed. It is quick and easy, but it does not give you the same level of control at the edges.

For a polished, put together lip look, you ideally want both a liner and a lipstick. The Fenty liner handles the precision work. A lipstick like NYX fills in the rest. If you can only pick one, the Fenty liner doubles as a full lip color. NYX works best with a separate lip liner underneath.

Beginners may find the NYX lipstick easier to use straight out of the package. The Fenty liner has a slight learning curve if you have never used a pencil lip liner before.

Packaging and Design

The Fenty Beauty Trace’d Out Lip Liner comes in a sleek, matte black pencil. It looks and feels premium. The packaging matches the rest of the Fenty Beauty lineup, giving it a cohesive, luxury aesthetic. You will need a separate sharpener to maintain the tip.

The NYX Matte Lipstick comes in a simple black tube with a clear window showing the shade. The packaging is functional and compact. It does not feel as luxurious as Fenty, but it is practical and easy to toss in your bag.

Fenty wins on packaging design and overall presentation. The product feels like a treat to use. NYX wins on convenience because you never need a sharpener. Both products are compact enough for travel and purse storage.

Who Should Buy Fenty Beauty Lip Liner

This product is perfect for you if you want a lip product that lasts all day without touch ups. It suits people who attend long events, work in client facing roles, or simply hate reapplying lip color.

Fenty is also ideal for people with deeper skin tones who struggle to find lip liners that do not look ashy. The true cast pigments show up beautifully on all complexions. If you love a defined, sculpted lip look, this liner delivers exactly that.

Makeup enthusiasts who enjoy layering products will love using the Fenty liner as a base. It extends the wear time of any lipstick or gloss you apply on top.

Who Should Buy NYX Matte Lipstick

The NYX Matte Lipstick is your best bet if you are shopping on a budget. It gives you solid matte color at a price that lets you buy multiple shades without guilt. Students, teens, and casual makeup users will appreciate the affordability.

It is also a great choice for people who prefer a softer, creamier lip feel. The butter based formula keeps lips comfortable. If you rotate through many lip colors and like trying new shades often, NYX’s low price makes experimenting easy.

Anyone who values cruelty free and vegan cosmetics will also lean toward NYX. The brand’s ethical commitments are well documented and certified by PETA.

Can You Use Both Products Together

Absolutely. Using Fenty Beauty Lip Liner and NYX Matte Lipstick together is one of the smartest lip combos you can create. Here is how to do it.

First, line and fill your lips with the Fenty Trace’d Out Liner. This creates a long lasting, waterproof base that prevents feathering and fading. Next, apply the NYX Matte Lipstick on top for added color depth and creaminess.

The result is a lip look that combines Fenty’s staying power with NYX’s creamy texture. The liner prevents the lipstick from bleeding outside your lip line. The lipstick adds a softer, more comfortable layer on top.

This method also means your lip color fades more gracefully. When the top layer of NYX wears off, the Fenty liner remains visible underneath. You still look polished even before you reapply.

How to Make Each Product Last Longer

For the Fenty lip liner, start with clean, exfoliated lips. Apply a thin layer of lip balm, blot it off, and then line your lips. Fill in completely for maximum wear. The drier your lip surface, the better the liner grips.

For the NYX lipstick, apply one thin coat and blot with a tissue. Apply a second thin coat and blot again. This layering technique builds color and extends wear time by 1 to 2 hours. You can also set it with a light dusting of translucent powder.

Avoid oily foods and drinks if you want either product to last longer. Oil breaks down lip color quickly. Drinking through a straw also helps preserve your lip look throughout the day.

Final Verdict: Which Product Wins

There is no single winner here because these products serve different purposes. The Fenty Beauty Trace’d Out Lip Liner wins on longevity, precision, and pigment quality. The NYX Matte Lipstick wins on affordability, comfort, and shade variety.

If you must choose one, ask yourself this question. Do you want long lasting precision or everyday affordable color? Your answer tells you which product to buy.

The best approach is to own both. Use the Fenty liner for defined lips and long wear days. Use the NYX lipstick for casual, everyday color. Together, they create a flawless lip look that performs beautifully at any price point.

How Do They Compare to Other Lip Products on the Market

Both Fenty and NYX hold strong positions among competitors. Fenty’s lip liner competes with MAC Lip Pencil and Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat, both priced similarly. Fenty stands out with its inclusive shade range and waterproof formula.

NYX Matte Lipstick competes with Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink and e.l.f. Matte Lipstick. NYX holds its own with a creamier feel and a wider color selection. The butter infused formula is unique at this price range.

Neither product exists in a vacuum. Your overall lip routine matters. A good lip scrub, a hydrating balm, and the right liner and lipstick combination will always outperform any single product used alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Fenty Beauty Lip Liner worth the higher price?

Yes, if you value long wear performance. The Fenty Trace’d Out Lip Liner lasts up to 8 hours and resists transfer. You pay more upfront, but you spend less time on touch ups. For special events and long days, the investment pays off.

Can NYX Matte Lipstick last all day?

NYX Matte Lipstick lasts about 4 to 5 hours with normal wear. You will need to reapply after meals. Using a lip liner underneath and blotting between coats can extend the wear time by an hour or two.

Do Fenty lip liners work on dark skin tones?

Yes. Fenty Beauty specifically formulates its lip liners with true cast pigments that show up accurately on all skin tones. The brand is known for inclusive shade ranges, and the lip liners are no exception.

Is NYX Matte Lipstick cruelty free and vegan?

Yes. NYX Professional Makeup is certified cruelty free by PETA and uses a vegan formula. No animal testing is involved in the production of their matte lipstick line.

Can I use Fenty lip liner as a full lip color?

Absolutely. The creamy formula fills in lips smoothly. Many users apply the Fenty Trace’d Out Liner across the entire lip as a standalone matte lip color. It works especially well for a defined, long lasting look.

Which product is better for beginners?

NYX Matte Lipstick is more beginner friendly. The bullet format is easy to apply without practice. It is also affordable enough to experiment with different shades. The Fenty liner requires a bit more skill for clean, precise application.