For actual dueling, buy a Baselit lightsaber. Neopixel looks fancier, but it is better for display and light contact. If your plan is to swing it at a friend, Baselit is the tougher and cheaper pick. If your plan is to stand it on a shelf and gaze at it, which is also a valid plan, Neopixel is the pretty one.
Baselit vs Neopixel: the quick answer
| Baselit | Neopixel | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Dueling, training, impact | Display, cosplay, light contact |
| Blade | Lit from the hilt end | LEDs run the length of the blade |
| Look | Bright, solid color | Brighter blade, smoother effects |
| Durability | Built for real dueling and impact | Better kept for gentle use |
| Price example (Practitioner) | $109 | $209 |
That price example is the same hilt in both versions at the time of writing, so the choice really is about what you want the saber to do.
What is a Baselit lightsaber?
A Baselit saber lights its polycarbonate blade from the base, with LEDs in the hilt shining up the blade. It is a simple setup, and simple is good when your saber is going to get hit. This is why Baselit is our recommendation for dueling and training. You will also see it called an RGB saber, because the color can be changed.
What is a Neopixel lightsaber?
Neopixel sabers have LEDs running the length of the blade, which is what lets them show smoother effects like the blade igniting and retracting. It is the more immersive option and it looks great in photos. We cover the details in our Neopixel guide. For dueling, it is better suited to light contact, so if you want to really swing, go Baselit.
So which one should you buy?
- You want to duel or train: Baselit.
- You want a display piece or cosplay: Neopixel.
- You are not sure: Baselit. It is our most popular choice and the best value.
Many of our hilts come in both versions. On a listing like the Practitioner, you pick your hilt color and blade size, then choose Baselit or Neopixel under Electronics. You can browse the whole Baselit collection, our heavy dueling lightsabers, or the Neopixel collection if you are leaning fancy.
What else should you look for in a dueling lightsaber?
- The blade: A polycarbonate blade is the standard for dueling. Ours attach with the included screws and hex key, which takes under two minutes.
- The battery: Ours include a pre-installed rechargeable battery and a charging cable, so you are not hunting for batteries.
- Support after the sale: We offer a 60-day return window, with free return shipping within the U.S., and lifetime support. In the first year, defects get a free repair or replacement. After that, parts are free and you cover shipping.
- Delivery: Orders ship within 3 business days, with free shipping worldwide on all sabers.
How do you duel safely?
Dueling is fun, and the safest version of it is a bit boring on purpose. Our basics, which you can also find in our safe dueling tips:
- Wear protective gear like gloves, a helmet and padding.
- Pick an open space with no furniture, pets or bystanders in range.
- Start slow and learn the basics before you pick up speed.
- Agree on the rules with your partner before you start, and stop when anyone asks.
- Check your blade for cracks before each session, and replace it if it looks damaged.
- Think about learning from an experienced duelist, since good habits stick.
If you want to look like you know what you are doing, our guide to the seven lightsaber forms is a good place to start.
Buying a lightsaber for a kid or teen?
Here is the honest version. Our sabers are hobby-grade, not toys, and we do not publish a numeric age rating, so you know your child best. Our Lightsabers for Kids collection is described as lightweight and designed for younger users, and the Sidekick is the model in it. For younger kids who just want to wave a glowing sword around the living room, a toy lightsaber from a toy aisle is a perfectly good choice, and we will not be offended. Our toy vs hobby lightsaber guide covers the trade-offs.
If your kid or teen is serious about the hobby, a Baselit saber is the more forgiving pick, since it is made for impact. Pair it with the safety gear above and supervise at first. If they mostly want to display it or dress up, our display and cosplay lightsabers are the better fit. For a gift, the 60-day return window gives you some breathing room if it is not quite right, and our lightsaber gift guide can help you choose.
Best lightsaber for dueling FAQ
Can you duel with a Neopixel lightsaber?
Light contact, yes. For real dueling and impact, Baselit is the better choice because it is built for it.
What is the best lightsaber for dueling?
A Baselit lightsaber with a polycarbonate blade is the best pick for most people who want to duel. Browse our heavy dueling lightsabers.
What is a Baselit lightsaber?
It is a lightsaber that lights its blade from the base, with LEDs in the hilt. It is simple, durable and great value, and it is sometimes called an RGB saber.
How much does a dueling lightsaber cost?
Our Baselit sabers start around $99 at the time of writing. The same hilt in Neopixel costs more, as in the Practitioner example above.
Are lightsabers safe for kids?
Ours are hobby-grade sabers, not toys, and we do not publish a numeric age rating. Use protective gear, supervise, and use your judgment about your child.
