Most highlighters use chisel tips or dual-ended designs that offer both broad and fine lines. Descriptions vary from fine/medium/broad to numeric point sizes in some listings (for example, around 1.6 mm for a fine tip).

Pack counts vary widely: you can find single-color packs (for example a 3‑pack in fluorescent yellow) and multicolored assortments ranging up to 15 colors or more, with common sizes like 5‑count, 10‑count, and 15‑count sets.

Highlighter pack sizes range from small multi‑packs to large assortments. Examples in listings include single‑color 3‑count packs, 5‑count assortments, 10‑count sets, and 15‑count dual‑tip collections.

Helpful features include dual tips for broad highlighting and fine underlining, soft/translucent or water‑resistant pigment inks that minimize bleed and allow layering once dry, and color‑coded assortments for organized note‑taking and planners.

Some highlighters are marketed to resist drying when left uncapped for extended periods—examples in listings claim they will not dry out for up to eight hours or that they "won't dry out quickly" if left uncapped.