In the world of making art, having a good LED lightbox for drawing is super important. It’s like a special tool that helps artists, animators, and others make their drawings look just right.
We’ve been busy testing lots of different LED lightboxes to help you find the best one. We’ve worked closely with experts to make sure we find the ones that work well and are worth your money.
When you’re choosing a lightbox, there are a few things to think about:
- Power: Some lightboxes plug into a USB port, some use batteries, and some need to be plugged into the wall. Each way has its pros and cons, so you’ll want to pick the one that works best for you.
- Size: Lightboxes come in different sizes. Some are big like a piece of A3 paper, while others are smaller like A4. It’s up to you to decide which size suits your needs.
- Brightness: The brightness of a lightbox is important too. If you need to see lots of details in your drawings, you’ll want one that’s really bright. But if you’re just doing simple sketches, you might not need it to be as bright.
If you want to know more about how to pick the right lightbox, check out our “Buying Guide”. We’ve also picked out some of the best lightboxes out there and given them a close look in our reviews. So, whether you’re an experienced artist or just starting out, we’re here to help you find the perfect LED lightbox for your drawing adventures.
Best LED Lightbox for Drawing Table
| Best LED Lightbox for Drawing | Thickness in mm | Voltage | Size | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tiktecklab A4 Light Box | 5 | 5V | A4 | Check On Amazon |
| LITENERGY A4 LED Light Box | 5 | 5V | A4 | Check On Amazon |
| HSK A3 LED Light Box | 6 | 12V | A3 | Check On Amazon |
| Comzler A4 LED Light Box | 8 | 5V | A4 | Check On Amazon |
| Mlife LED Light Box | 4.7 | 5V | A4 | Check On Amazon |
| Kusmil A4 LED Light Box | 3.5 | 5V | A4 | Check On Amazon |
| ME456 A4 LED Light Box | 5 | 5V | A4 | Check On Amazon |
| Dasher A4 LED Light Box | 5 | 5V | A4 | Check On Amazon |
| Huion L4S LED Light Box | 5.1 | 5V | A4 | Check On Amazon |
| AGPTEK A4 LED Light Box | 5 | 5V | A4 | Check On Amazon |
Best LED Lightbox for Drawing Reviews
1. Tiktecklab A4 LED Light Box
Why it made the cut: Adjustable Brightness, Super Slim Design, A4 Size, Touch Sensor Design.
We picked Tiktecklab because of its sleek design, adjustable brightness, and portability, making it a top choice for artists and designers on the go. If you’re into sketching, drawing, or animation, this lightbox is a game-changer. With its ultra-thin profile of less than 5mm and even brightness, it’s perfect for various creative tasks.
The touch sensor allows for easy operation, while the A4 size provides ample space for your projects. Its acrylic surface adds durability and a premium feel, akin to a glass panel. Plus, the included 2m USB cable ensures convenient charging from power banks, computers, or wall outlets.
Specifications:
- Ultra-thin design: Less than 5mm thick
- Power rating: 3.2W
- Operating voltage: 5V
- Size: A4
- Touch sensor for easy control
- Acrylic surface for durability
- 2m USB cable for versatile charging
- Suitable for sketching, drawing, animation, and more
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Good illumination
- Portable
- Suitable for various tasks
Cons:
- No warranty
- Limited size options
2. LITENERGY A4 LED Light Box
Why It Made The Cut: Eyesight protection, Memory feature, Stepless brightness, Value for money
Imagine a gadget that’s super nice to your eyes, knows exactly how bright you like your light, and doesn’t cost a fortune. That’s this Litenergy lightbox for you! Featuring a 9”x12” visual working area, it’s perfectly sized for a range of activities from diamond painting to tattoo tracing.
The inclusion of eye protection technology ensures long sessions won’t leave your eyes feeling like you’ve just chopped onions. With the stepless brightness adjustment, you can find the ideal light intensity with a simple touch.
And the best part is that it remembers your setting next time you turn it on. Crafted with an acrylic panel, this super slim, 0.2” thick lightbox is stylish yet durable. Plus, the provided USB power cable means you can power it up from just about anywhere. Whether you’re working in portrait or landscape mode, this lightbox adapts to your creative flow.
Specifications:
- Eye protection technology
- 9”x12” working area
- Memory brightness feature
- Stepless brightness control
- Acrylic panel construction
- 0.2” thickness
- USB power cable included
- No radiation emitted
- Power: 4.5W
- Voltage: 5V
Pros:
- Affordable
- Portable design
- Protects eyes
- Remembers settings
- Versatile usage
Cons:
- Limited size options
- No standalone power
3. HSK A3 LED Light Box
Why It Made The Cut: Big size, Bright lights, Easy-to-use buttons, Comes with extras
The HSK A3 lightbox, the king-size bed of lightboxes! It’s the extra room you’ve been dreaming of for your projects. We picked this one because, sometimes, bigger really is better which can be actually be a game-changer for artists and crafters.
The frame is made from aluminum, striking the perfect balance between being lightweight and sturdy. It also means no annoying light escaping from the sides. The best part? It has three separate buttons to turn it on/off and adjust the brightness, so you don’t have to keep tapping the same spot.
The light is super bright at 4500 Lux, giving you a clear, even glow across the entire A3 surface. Plus, it comes with a storage bag and clips to keep your work in place. With the included 12V 1A adapter, you’re all set to light up your work anywhere.
Specifications:
- Slim design, 6mm thick
- Aluminum frame
- 4500 Lux brightness
- Includes 12V 1A adapter
- A3 size for more space
- 11W LED lights
- Comes with storage bag
- Includes white clips
- Multi-button control
- No battery, plug-in required
Pros:
- Bright, even lighting
- Easy to carry around
- Simple control layout
- Extra space for projects
- Handy accessories included
Cons:
- Must be plugged in
- Might feel too big for some
4. Comzler A4 LED Light Box
Why It Made The Cut: Rechargeable, Portable, Adjustable brightness, Magnetic hold
The Comzler lightbox is a dream come true for artists on the go. It’s rechargeable, so you’re not tied down by wires, and it’s got a magnet to keep your paper from dancing away. With its rechargeable 2500 mAh battery, you can sketch, trace, or view negatives for up to 5 hours without searching for an outlet. It’s like having a portable sun in your bag, ready to shine whenever inspiration strikes.
The lightbox offers five different brightness levels, ensuring your eyes won’t tire, even during those late-night creativity spurts. Its slim 8mm profile is just icing on the cake, making it super easy to slip into your bag. And let’s not forget the magnetic press design; it uses two magnets to hold your paper firmly in place, so no more wrestling with your art. Plus, viewing negatives and DSLR scanning just got easier, making this lightbox a versatile tool for various projects.
Specifications:
- Rechargeable 2500 mAh battery
- Up to 5 hours battery life
- 5 brightness levels
- Magnetic paper hold
- 8mm slim design
- Holds A4-sized paper
- Ideal for mobile use
- Good for negatives, DSLR scanning
- Portable and lightweight
- 3-year warranty included
Pros:
- Long battery life
- Adjustable light settings
- Strong magnetic hold
- Easy to carry
- Great customer service
Cons:
- Only A4 size
- Limited battery compared to plug-in
5. Mlife LED Light Box
Why It Made The Cut: Ultra-slim, Adjustable brightness, USB-powered, Eye protection
The Mlife lightbox earned a spot on our list thanks to its ultra-slim 4.7mm design, making it incredibly portable and one of the thinnest lightboxes available. Its LED lighting is evenly distributed, ensuring that your work surface is brightly lit without any flickering, which is a boon for your eyes. This lightbox is powered by a USB cable, giving you the flexibility to use it anywhere you can plug in.
The touch sensor switch allows for easy on/off capabilities and brightness adjustment, making it a breeze to get just the right lighting for your project. Whether you’re into diamond painting, drawing, or animation, this lightbox has got you covered. Plus, its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, ensuring that your creativity never has to be on hold.
Specifications:
- Ultra-slim 4.7mm design.
Even, flicker-free illumination
USB-powered (1.5m cable included)
Touch sensor brightness control
Eco-friendly LED technology
Portable 13.18 X 9.17 inches size
Ideal for various crafts
DC 5V input voltage
Adjustable light settings
100% money-back guarantee
Pros:
- Super thin and portable
Bright, even lighting
Easy brightness adjustment
USB convenience
Supports various crafts
Cons:
- No warranty info
Limited size options
6. Kusmil A4 LED Light Box
Why it made the cut: Slim, affordable, energy-efficient
The Kusmil lightbox brings together the best of both worlds: affordability and functionality. It proves that good things can come in affordable packages, offering great value for its price. Its incredibly slim 3.5mm body is one of the thinnest available, making it perfect for a wide range of activities from tracing to diamond painting.
It’s gentle on the eyes thanks to its flicker-free lighting, ensuring that users can work for hours without discomfort. Additionally, the brightness adjustment feature adds to its appeal, allowing users to find the perfect lighting for their project. Its low power consumption of 1.5W means it’s not just easy on the eyes but also on the environment and your electricity bill. The package includes a USB cable, rounding off its user-friendly features.
Specifications:
- Thickness: 3.5mm
A4 size compatible
Voltage: 5V
Power: 1.5W
Adjustable brightness
Flicker-free light
Touch button
Includes USB cable
Energy-efficient
Portable
Pros:
- Minimal heat production
Reduces eye strain
Budget-friendly
Customizable lighting - Lightweight and portable
Cons:
- Could improve build quality
Limited to A4 size
7. ME456 A4 LED Light Box
Why it made the cut: Large work area, Adjustable brightness, Memory feature, Energy-efficient
The ME456 lightbox stands out for its thoughtful design that prioritizes user comfort and efficiency, making it a perfect option for artists and professionals alike. With its generous 9” x 12” working area, it comfortably fits A4 papers, making it versatile for a variety of tasks such as stenciling, calligraphy, and animation. The sleek 5mm thickness means it’s incredibly portable and easy to store.
But what really sets it apart is its eye-care technology paired with a stepless brightness adjustment, allowing for the perfect illumination setting for any project. The smart memory feature is a thoughtful addition, recalling your last used setting to streamline your workflow. Powered by energy-efficient, flicker-free LED lamps that boast up to 50,000 working hours, this lightbox combines longevity with performance.
Specifications:
- Work area: 9” x 12”
Thickness: 5mm
Maximum luminance: 4000 Lux
Adjustable brightness
Smart memory feature
Flicker-free LED
Up to 50,000 hours LED life
USB powered
Suitable for A4 paper
Eye-care technology
Pros:
- Large, comfortable work area
Protects eyes during long use
Remembers your brightness setting
Long-lasting LED lights
Powered by USB for convenience
Cons:
- USB cable quality
8. Dasher A4 LED Light Box
Why it made the cut: Adjustable brightness, Ultra-thin, Non-slip, Full accessories
From hobbyists to professionals, Dasher lightbox caters to a wide audience with its combination of versatility, user-friendly design, and comprehensive set of accessories. Its sleek 5mm profile doesn’t just make it easy to carry around; it also ensures that working with it is a breeze, no matter where you are.
The inclusion of rubber pads on the back is a thoughtful touch, protecting your surfaces and keeping the lightbox firmly in place during use. With three brightness settings, you can adjust the light to your environment, whether you’re burning the midnight oil or sketching in the soft light of dusk. The comprehensive accessory pack, including a long 11-foot USB cable, ensures you have everything you need to get started. The built-in ruler is a cherry on top, making precision work simpler than ever.
Specifications:
- Thickness: 5mm
3 brightness settings
Rubber feet for stability
Includes power adapter
Comes with tracing sheets
Paper clips included
Long 11-foot USB cable
A4 size compatible
Built-in ruler for precision
Ideal for a variety of users
Pros:
- Versatile brightness options
Thoughtful, complete packaging
Simple and straightforward to use
Prevents slipping with rubber pads
Handy built-in ruler
Cons:
- Lacks warranty
9. Huion L4S LED Light Box
Why it made the cut: Eye protection, Adjustable brightness, Slim design, 1100 Lux brightness
Huion is a perfect option for anyone okay with spending a little extra to get the best. Though it costs a bit more, but you get what you pay for – top-notch quality that can make any project better. Its protective film and LED lamps work together to ensure your eyes are shielded from strain, allowing for extended use without discomfort.
The surface area of 12” x 8” is ample for A4 size papers, making it versatile for various projects. Despite its robust features, it’s surprisingly lightweight at only 0.6kg, enhancing its portability. The package comes complete with a user manual, paper clips, and a USB cable, ensuring you’re all set from the get-go. The touch switch adds a modern touch, allowing for easy power on and brightness adjustments.
Specifications:
- Eye protection technology
Adjustable brightness
Slim design, 0.6kg
Brightness: 1100 Lux
12” x 8” work surface
Includes user manual
Paper clips provided
USB cable included
Requires continuous power source
Touch switch for adjustments
Pros:
- Suitable for various uses
Lightweight and portable
Comes with necessary accessories
Cons:
- Always needs power source
10. AGPTEK A4 LED Light Box
Why it made the cut: Magnetic pins, Brightness control, Smart Memory, Eco-friendly LEDs
For anyone deep into art or hobbies, AGPTEK lightbox is a standout for its ability to secure your work, adapt to your lighting needs, and provide consistent, long-lasting illumination—a true enhancement to any creative endeavor.
With its unique magnetic pins, you can say goodbye to the days of chasing papers around your desk. The multi-button layout means adjusting brightness is a breeze – no more fumbling around with a stubborn button. And speaking of brightness, this pad can go toe-to-toe with your smartphone’s screen, lighting up your work with precision.
Plus, the smart memory function ensures that your ideal setting is just as you left it, every single time you power on. The eco-friendly LEDs not only offer brilliant light but also promise peace of mind, knowing they’re kind to your eyes and the planet, boasting an impressive lifespan of around 50,000 hours.
Specifications:
- Magnetic pin design
Brightness adjustable
Eco-friendly LED technology
Smart memory feature
Intuitive button layout
Ultra-slim 5mm profile
Light weight: 425 grams
Power: 5 Watts
Includes USB cable
Radiation-free LEDs
Pros:
- User-friendly design
High-quality illumination
Safe for eyes
Long-lasting LEDs
Cons:
- No significant drawbacks
How to Choose the Best LED Lightbox for Drawing?
When selecting the ideal LED lightbox for drawing, it’s essential to consider various factors that align with your specific needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the key elements to keep in mind:
1. Power Source Options
LED lightboxes are available with different power sources: USB, battery, and AC adapter.
- USB-powered lightboxes offer great flexibility, allowing you to power them via a power bank, computer, or any USB/AC adapter. This versatility makes them ideal for users who prioritize convenience and mobility.
- AC adapter-powered models provide consistent, stable illumination, perfect for professionals requiring prolonged use without flickering. They’re best suited for those who use their lightbox extensively, often for more than 8 hours a day.
- Battery-powered lightboxes cater to occasional users, such as artists who sketch in various settings, including classrooms. While they offer portability, their brightness may drain the battery faster, typically lasting around 4 to 5 hours instead of the expected 12, which could be a drawback for some.
2. Choosing the Right Size
Lightboxes come in a range of sizes, from compact 6” x 9” models to larger versions measuring up to 18” x 24”. The choice depends on the scale of your artwork. Analyze your previous projects to determine the most suitable size, typically ranging from A4 to A2. Small, sketch-pad-sized A4 lightboxes are great for minor works, whereas larger models are beneficial for animators or those needing a sensory table for children.
3. Brightness and Luminosity
Opt for a lightbox that provides adequate illumination for your tasks, whether it’s tracing through thick paper or technical drawing requiring at least 3000 lux. Many lightboxes feature adjustable brightness settings, allowing you to tailor the light intensity to your project needs, with some offering continuous adjustment for even greater flexibility.
4. Color Temperature Considerations
The color temperature of your lightbox, measured in Kelvin (K), affects the hue of the light. Temperatures around 3000K produce warm, yellowish light, while higher values (9000-10000K) emit a cooler, bluish tone. For most artistic work, a daylight color temperature of around 6500K is ideal. Adjustable color temperature settings can provide a range from cozy indoor lighting to bright outdoor conditions, offering professional-level control over your environment.
5. Weight for Portability
The weight of your lightbox is a crucial factor if you need portability or plan to use it in a fixed location. Most lightboxes are lightweight and thin, facilitating easy transportation without sacrificing quality or durability.
6. Quality and Durability
The quality of a lightbox largely depends on the materials used in its construction. Investing in a durable, well-made model may cost more upfront but can save money and frustration in the long run. While there are budget-friendly options available, always read reviews to ensure you’re not compromising on quality for the sake of price. Look for models with safety certifications like UL or CE to minimize the risk of fire, especially important for devices using LEDs.
7. Ease of Use
Consider lightboxes with intuitive controls and features like touch-sensitive switches, memory functions for brightness settings, and easy power options such as USB connectivity.
8. Accessories
Some lightboxes come with useful accessories like rulers printed on the surface, stands, or clips to secure the paper. Evaluate what comes in the package and what might need to be purchased separately.
LED Lightbox – FAQs
Ans: An LED lightbox is used for tracing, sketching, and transferring designs onto paper or fabric, offering a bright, evenly lit surface to work on.
Ans: Yes, most LED lightboxes come with adjustable brightness settings, allowing you to change the light intensity according to your project needs.
Ans: Battery-powered lightboxes are ideal for outdoor use or when you’re on the move, as they don’t require a direct power source, though they may have limited battery life.
Ans: The size of the lightbox you should get depends on the scale of your projects. Consider your typical drawing size to choose between sizes ranging from A4 to A2.
Ans: No, LED lightboxes do not emit harmful radiation. They use eco-friendly LEDs, which are safe for prolonged use.
Ans: LED lightboxes have a long lifespan, with the LEDs themselves often lasting up to 50,000 hours of use.
Ans: Yes, USB-powered lightboxes can be conveniently powered using a power bank, making them portable and versatile for use anywhere.
Ans: Yes, the color temperature affects how you perceive colors on your work surface. Adjustable color temperature allows for a range of warm to cool lighting conditions.
Ans: Most LED lightboxes are designed to be lightweight and portable, with many models being thin and easy to carry.
Ans: Consider factors like power source, size, brightness and luminosity, color temperature, weight, and quality based on your specific drawing or tracing needs and preferences.
Conclusion
We hope you found our guide to the best lightboxes on the market informative and helpful. Choosing the right one ultimately depends on the features you value most in a lightbox. If you’re still undecided, let us assist you in narrowing down your options.
- LITENERGY A4 Light Box: This option stands out for its excellent value and array of features. With adjustable brightness, smart memory function, eyesight protection, and zero radiation emission, it’s the top pick for budget-conscious buyers looking for quality.
- Comzler A4 Light Box: Boasting top-tier features, this model offers five levels of brightness for any lighting condition, a rechargeable battery with up to 5 hours of life, and a unique magnetic press feature. It’s the ideal mix of functionality and value for those prioritizing features and cost-effectiveness.
- HSK A3 Light Box: For those who need more space for their projects, this model delivers with its larger size. Though it comes at a higher price, the investment brings magnetic pins and adjustable brightness into your creative toolkit, making it perfect for larger sketches.
No matter your specific needs or budget, one of these lightboxes is sure to enhance your drawing or tracing projects.
