current favorite liquid eyeliners (2016)

Over the last few years I tried all sorts of eyeliners - liquid, pencil and gel - and I've finally settled on what really works for me consistently.  My favorite is the black liquid eyeliner even though I have to admit it took practice to learn how to apply a proper cat eye or puppy eye.  Pencils and gels are actually easier for beginners, but now I really only use pencils (black or brown) to smudge out my lower lash line or (champagne or nude) to brighten up the lower waterline or tear duct area.  And while I like the look and longevity of gel liners, I'm too lazy to use a separate brush to apply them.

So after all this experimentation, what are my current favorite liquid eyeliners?

Kat Von D Tattoo Liner (in Trooper)($19 available at Sephora) - Upon my first flick, I immediately knew that this was a keeper.  Very black and very easy to use.  I can get a thin or thick line easily; the formula isn't too wet so I don't have transfer onto my hooded eyelids; and it lasts all day (so long as you don't have oily eyelids or rub your eyes a lot).  I'm not sure it's actually waterproof, but then I'm not in the habit of wearing eye makeup when I'm swimming.  I always have a backup handy and will stock up during the Sephora VIB sales.

Physicians Formula Eye Booster 2-in-1 Lash Boosting Eyeliner and Serum (in Ultra Black)(around $11, but you can always use coupons and discounts to get it cheaper at most drugstores or drugstore.com) - This was the liner I used to really learn how to create different eye looks with the liquid liner.  Again very easy to use, very black and lasts well (but not as well as the Tattoo Liner).  I still like to keep a backup handy but it has become a little overshadowed by the Tattoo Liner in my heart.  However, it's a more affordable option if you are on a budget.

Dollywink Eyeliner (around $22 in the US, but less than $10 in Japan) - I didn't love this liner at first, but it has grown on me.  The tip isn't as "firm" as the liners noted above, so I had to change my technique a little; but once I got the hang of it, I really liked the results.  Also, it lasts a really long time - I keep thinking it's on its last legs and then somehow it revives itself.  However, in view of the price, I wouldn't recommend this unless you happened to be in Asia and can get it at the cheaper price.

 Liquid liners that didn't really work for me:

• Stila Stay All Day Liquid Liner - This is very black and gets super good reviews, but I found the tip too soft so I had difficulty getting precise lines.  The formula was also a bit wetter and would transfer onto my hooded eyelids. 
• Lancome Artliner - This really didn't work for me at all.  I found the applicator difficult to use and the liner would flake off and fade super easily. 

If you have any recommendations, I'd love to hear it!  

I am still on the hunt for a pencil liner that will stay in my waterline  - if you have a favorite, let me know!