If your child just wants to wave a glowing sword around, a toy lightsaber is a perfectly good choice. If they have outgrown toys, care how it looks, or want something that can be repaired and last, a hobby lightsaber is worth a look. We sell the second kind, and we will still tell you when the first kind is the right call.
What is the difference between a toy and a hobby lightsaber?
| Toy lightsaber | Hobby lightsaber (ours) | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Usually a fraction of the price | Our Sidekick starts at $99, most starter sabers $109 to $149 |
| Look | Often simplified | Replica-style hilts |
| Power | Usually replaceable batteries | Rechargeable battery and charging cable included |
| Blade | Varies | Polycarbonate blade |
| Support | Varies by brand | 60-day returns, lifetime support |
| Best for | Casual play, little kids, party favors | Collecting, cosplay, display, dueling with friends |
Prices are at the time of writing. The toy column is general, and every toy is a little different.
When is a toy lightsaber the better choice?
- Your child is young and just wants to play.
- You expect it to be dropped, thrown, lost or used on a sibling, and you will not be upset.
- You are buying a party favor or a stocking stuffer.
- You are not sure they will care about it in a month.
There is no shame in the toy aisle. A cheap saber that gets used every day beats an expensive one that stays in the box.
When is it worth stepping up to a hobby lightsaber?
- They have outgrown toys and want something that looks like the one in the movies.
- They duel with friends and want a saber built for it. See our guide to the best lightsaber for dueling.
- They collect, cosplay or display, and the look matters.
- You like the idea of buying one saber that can be supported and repaired. We offer lifetime support: in the first year, defects get a free repair or replacement, and after that, parts are free and you cover shipping.
Which Sith Sabers lightsaber is for younger users?
Our Lightsabers for Kids collection is described as lightweight and designed for younger users. It is a small collection, and the model in it is the Sidekick, which has a 10.6 inch hilt and comes in 32 inch and 36 inch blade sizes. It is available with Baselit or Baselit Lite electronics, so check the listing for the details. If you want a wider choice, our starter lightsabers are the best place to begin.
We do not publish a numeric age rating, so you are the best judge of what your child can handle.
Parent checklist before you buy
- Be honest about use. Display, play, or real dueling? That decides everything.
- Check the blade type. Baselit is built for impact, and Neopixel is best for display and light contact.
- Plan the rules. Decide where it can be used and what is off limits. Pets, ceiling fans and the dining room chandelier are common victims.
- Add safety gear and supervise. Read our safe dueling tips.
- Check the return window. We offer 60 days, with free return shipping within the U.S.
Choosing a gift? Our lightsaber gift guide walks you through it.
Toy vs hobby lightsaber FAQ
Is a toy lightsaber or a real lightsaber better for a kid?
It depends on how they will use it. A toy is great for casual play and little kids. A hobby lightsaber is for kids who want a replica look and something built to last. Neither is a real movie lightsaber, which does not exist. We explain why in are lightsabers real?
What is the best lightsaber for kids?
It depends on your child and how they plan to use it. For younger users, start with our Lightsabers for Kids collection and the Sidekick. For general play, a toy saber is a fine choice.
Are Sith Sabers lightsabers toys?
No. They are hobby-grade lightsabers, so use protective gear and supervise.
Do they need batteries?
Ours include a pre-installed rechargeable battery and a charging cable.
