Lightsaber dueling has become a worldwide phenomenon among Star Wars fans and even those looking for a fun hobby or sport to take part in.
With dueling having grown so much in popularity, it’s easy to see the market becoming flooded with different styles of lightsabers that include their own unique set of features.
Not all lightsabers are created equal. Just as not all lightsaber duelists are created equal. Some duelists are ready to take the next step and purchase a lightsaber suited for intense dueling. Others are beginners on a budget looking to get a feel for lightsaber dueling.
Regardless of where you stand as a lightsaber duelist, odds are you will find a product below to fit your skill level and budget.
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Table of Contents
- 1. Medium to Heavy Dueling: X-TREX SABER Force FX Black Series
- 2. Solid Dueling Blade: X-TREX SABER FX E15 Lightsaber
- 3. Light to Heavy Dueling: YDDSABER Lightsaber
- 4. Durable Enough to Duel: Hasbro Ultimate FX Lightsaber
- 5. Light to Medium Dueling: Star Wars – The Black Series Luke Skywalker Force FX Lightsaber
- 6. Light to Medium Dueling: Lukidy 2Pack Lightsaber
- 7. Light to Medium Dueling: CVCSER FX Dueling Saber
- Buyer’s Guide for the Competitive Lightsaber Duelist
- Conclusion
1. Medium to Heavy Dueling: X-TREX SABER Force FX Black Series
You won’t find a more all-in-one lightsaber on the market. The X-TREX Saber Force FX Black Series provides a plethora of customization options, and it holds up better in dueling than any other lightsaber on the list.
The lightsaber is ideal if you’re looking to engage in moderate to heavy dueling. Durability makes this lightsaber stand out. If you’re an accomplished lightsaber duelist looking to take your passion to the next level, the X-TREX SABER is the perfect product.
X-TREX Saber Force FX Black Series features a smooth, aluminum hilt with an optional wraparound band to improve grip. Its flash-on-clash effect and authentic sound effects transport you right into the Star Wars Universe.
And it’s also ideal for customization, featuring 12 distinct blade colors plus the option to add a second blade onto the opposite end of the hilt to bring out your inner Darth Maul. Just push the button and change your allegiance from Jedi to Sith, and back again.
The lightsaber’s hilt bonds well whether you’re looking for a raw grip around the aluminum, or a supported grip with the wraparound.
Its flash-on-clash effect and sensitive swing brings the Star Wars universe to our world, meaning you will find few lightsabers that are more realistic.
What We Like
- Full customization
- Durability
- Affordability
Besides the ease of changing the blade’s colors, X-TREX SABER’s sound effects are also easy to control. Turn off the lightsaber, and hold the button, and listen for the confirmation sound.
The loud speakers add to the realism this lightsaber brings, and its bright LED lighting will make you think the X-TREX SABER is a prop from the movies.
It’s also an affordable lightsaber strong enough to take a shellacking if you’re looking for moderate to intense dueling.
What We Don’t Like
- LED Lighting
There have been several complaints about the LED lights burning out quickly, and charging did not always fix the issue.
2. Solid Dueling Blade: X-TREX SABER FX E15 Lightsaber
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While it’s not as sturdy as the X-TREX Black Series lightsaber, X-TREX SABER FX E15 still holds up well for moderate-to-heavy dueling. It’s also just as customizable.
The X-TREX E15 lightsaber is also a kid-friendly product that is also suitable for teens and adults looking for a sturdy dueling blade to withstand carnage.
The X-TREX E15 Lightsaber features a lightweight hilt and blade and an aluminum finish. Its 10 sound fonts include fully customizable volume adjustment while offering flash-on-clash and realistic blaster sounds.
Its 32.28-inch blade provides a phenomenal reach and features 12 color options, allowing for full customization. Featured colors include everything from Sith red to traditional Jedi colors like blue and green, and multiple shades of purple, yellow, and orange.
Its lightweight blade is perfect for different dueling styles, especially for the one-handed Form II style.
What We Like
- Ideal for cosplay and dueling
- Light blade
- Comparable to major brands
Given its versatile blade colors, this lightsaber is great for cosplay and dueling at an affordable price substantially lower than other major brands on the market.
Since the blade is so light, if you’re not into lightsaber dueling, this saber is a great accessory for costumes and Halloween parties.
Reviewers have compared the X-TREX SABER FX E15 Dueling lightsaber to name brands like SABERFORGE and ULTRASABERS while simultaneously lauding its affordability.
What We Don’t Like
- Lacks kid-friendliness
Many reviewers pointed out that, despite its lighter weight, the larger blade keeps this lightsaber from being as kid-friendly as advertised.
3. Light to Heavy Dueling: YDDSABER Lightsaber
One of the best bang-for-buck lightsabers on the market, YDD Lightsabers also hold up well for heavy dueling, and they provide sound customization options.
These lightsabers are great for both duelers and collectors, and for fans looking to engage in cosplay.
The lightsaber features authentic sound effects from the movies, including blasters and flash-on-clash.
And while it’s not as customizable as the X-TREX SABER brand, you can still choose from seven blade colors, plus a mute option sound font.
The YDDSABER is durable, despite the cheap price. While it supports heavy dueling, the YDDSABER is the way to go even if you’re an experienced duelist.
What We Like
- Brilliant blade lighting and sound effects
- Suitable for young and older duelist
- Durable product
A bright blade and authentic sound effects further raise this lightsaber’s value. Regardless of whether you take it outside on a clear day in June or if you’re inside with normal lighting, this blade glows so much, you’d think it’s absorbing light.
While the YDD lightsaber measures a little shorter than others at just 39.5 inches and weighs 0.66 pounds, it’s versatile enough to suit kids and adults.
The sound effects are not so sensitive. It takes quite a smack to coax them, further proving the product’s durability.
What We Don’t Like
- Length
YDDSABER is on the shorter side and it’s not a complete replica of the lightsabers you see in Star Wars.
4. Durable Enough to Duel: Hasbro Ultimate FX Lightsaber
This lightsaber doesn’t contain the same versatility as the others. So if you’re looking for more customization, look elsewhere. However, if you’re looking for a cool replica lightsaber featuring one of Star Wars’ most polarizing characters, the Hasbro Ultimate FX Lightsaber is for you.
The Hasbro Ultimate FX Lightsaber also does not carry the same number of features as others on the list. But it’s durable enough to withstand a moderate beating despite its ultra-cheap price. However, they are not ideal for repetitive, high-intensity dueling.
This product is ideal for younger kids. Although it’s also good for adults looking to add to their Star Wars collection.
The lightsaber features realistic sound effects. But the blade’s light does not extend and retract as you see with higher-quality brands. Despite this, the lighting is among the brightest on the market.
What We Like
- Affordability
- Impeccable blade detail
- Good for cosplay
Its lighting is bright and detailed, so much that reviewers noted you can even see the individual lights. It takes little to emit the lightsaber’s sound effects, with most reviewers noting a light switch will suffice.
While it’s not the best choice for dueling, if you’re looking to break into collecting or cosplay, Hasbro Ultimate FX should grace your shortlist.
What We Don’t Like
- Lacks customizable features
A no-frills product, this is a great lightsaber if you’re looking to duel, but it does little in the customization department.
5. Light to Medium Dueling: Star Wars – The Black Series Luke Skywalker Force FX Lightsaber
- Includes stand for ultimate collectability
- Realistic light effects
- Authentic movie sound effects
An accurate replica of a lightsaber featuring one of Star Wars’ most lovable heroes, this lightsaber is one of the more expensive ones on the market. However, it’s great for moderate dueling or collecting.
If you’re a collector, you would like the Star Wars Black Series, whether you’re looking to collect a replica of what Mark Hamill or another hero used on the Star Wars set.
Built for collectors over duelists, the Star Wars Black Series Force FX Lightsaber contains a cool stand to display your latest piece of hardware. It also features authentic lighting at the blade, sound effects, and an astounding 44.88-inch measurement from pommel to tip.
While its quality is good, this lightsaber is not as ideal for dueling as it is for collecting, as reviewers reported the LED lights are prone to burning out if used in intense dueling.
Despite its shortcomings in the dueling department, the Star Wars Black Series’ realistic aesthetics is compounded by bright lighting and authentic sound effects from the films.
What We Like
- Great for collecting
- Great for cosplay
- Sturdy
Besides collecting, if you engage in cosplay, the Star Wars Black Series is the ideal lightsaber for you. Although it’s not ideal for dueling, its metal hilt gives the lightsaber more weight than others, adding sturdiness to the base.
What We Don’t Like
- Not for high-intensity dueling
The LEDs can burn out if you get too intense with your duels, yet for its higher price, you would expect more durability.
6. Light to Medium Dueling: Lukidy 2Pack Lightsaber
- 【Holiday Gift】: The Lightsaber with 12 colors and 3 sound modes to choose and can be switched anytime .The Hilt is comfortable and smooth for hand-hold ,made of aviation aluminum alloy, processed...
- 【Real Combat Experience】:The Lukidy RGB Light Dueling Saber combines special combat sound effects and flash modes to bring a vivid and realistic combat experience
- 【Dual LightSaber】: The Lukidy RGB Light FX Sabers can be connected as two in one, and the blade and hilt can also be disassembled. The Lukidy RGB lightsaber is made of a frosted metal hilt and a...
One of the most versatile and customizable lightsabers for an inexpensive price, the Lukidy 2Pack Lightsaber is a great accessory when you’re looking to emulate famed Jedi Padawan Ahsoka Tano.
Besides its dual saber option, you can also easily assemble the sabers into a double-bladed weapon to bring out your inner-Darth Maul. If you’re looking to literally create a different lightsaber every time you duel, including a dual saber option, the Lukidy 2Pack is for you.
Featuring 12 blade colors, you can join the Jedi or Sith Orders at will. And while they feature traditional colors from both orders, the Lukidy 2Pack also includes vivid, unique colors like cyan, pink, pale green, salmon pink, and nattier blue.
An inexpensive alternative to the higher-quality brands, the Lukidy 2Pack still holds up well in dueling, although it’s not the best product to duel full force.
What We Like
- Versatility
- Sturdiness
- Easily assembled and disassembled
Arguably the most versatile lightsaber out there with its 12 colors, three sound effect volumes, and easy assembly into the saber of your choice.
Despite its cheaper price, reviewers praised this lightsaber’s sturdiness and value for money, and material quality.
You’re also just a button push away from changing the color and sound quality, allowing for full customization at will. And its easy assembly and disassembly let you create a different lightsaber for every duel.
What We Don’t Like
- Not as durable as other name brands
Reviewers noted Lukidy lightsabers cannot take hits in ways other lightsabers can, and even live-action roleplay or lighter cosplay has broken these sabers.
7. Light to Medium Dueling: CVCSER FX Dueling Saber
- ✔【Sound Effects and Light Effects】12 sound font effects; 3 light effects (Steady, Pulse,Unstable) ; 3 volume settings (High, Low, Mute).The light saber sword has a real blaster sound, super...
- ✔【New Version Smooth Swing Light Saber 】① Motion Control: lets you turn on or off the blade by pushing and pulling, twisting or swinging. ② 12 set sound fonts, realistic movie sound effects....
- ✔【Usage Scenarios】Premium Fashionable Light Saber for Cosplay Parties, Outdoor Sports, Family Entertainment, Outdoor Camping, Fencing sports training, great for practicing dueling and casual...
A versatile lightsaber that offers a plethora of features, including the ability to link two sabers and flash on clash sound effects.
If you want to fully customize your lightsaber at an affordable price, CVCSER is for you. And given its size, it is even better if you’re looking to take their dueling to the next level.
The lightsaber features 12 blade colors, nine sound effects, and five types of music switching. Measuring over 44 inches, the CVCSER FX Dueling Saber also possesses an intimidating reach.
What We Like
- Fully customizable
- Affordability
- Versatility
You won’t find another lightsaber that you can customize from the blade to the music in any way you’d like for its price. It’s not as cheap as the others on this list, but it remains in the affordable category. Bonus points for the option to add an additional blade.
What We Don’t Like
- Not suitable for everyone
The manufacturer urges only fans ages 18 and up should use the CYCSER FX Dueling Saber, so this lightsaber is not for young fans.
Buyer’s Guide for the Competitive Lightsaber Duelist
Lightsaber dueling is a competitive and recreational sport. And if you’re serious about taking up the hobby, you need to pick a lightsaber that is right for your individual needs.
Is the Lightsaber Durable?
If you’re getting into lightsaber dueling, you need to find the most durable lightsabers on the market. While expensive options exist, what if you don’t have the budget to purchase a top-notch brand?
Fortunately, brands like X-TREX SABER and YDDSABER provide cost-effective alternatives. And while they will never hold up as well as the top brands like SABERFORGE and ULTRASABERS, both brands remain capable of withstanding a beating.
Does the Lightsaber Conform to Your Fighting Style?
There are seven forms of lightsaber dueling, and you will probably emulate just one or two of those forms. For example, if Makashi is your style, then you will need a lighter lightsaber for predominantly one-handed dueling.
However, if Djem So is your style, then you will benefit more from dual lightsabers.
If you end up buying a lightsaber that does not conform to your chosen fighting style, your only options involve learning an entirely new style or purchasing another lightsaber. Not the ideal situation if you’re a competitive duelist.
Not sure about your fighting style? Study the seven forms of lightsaber dueling and decide which one is best suited for you.
Is the Lightsaber Customizable?
While this feature isn’t as prominent as the previous two, you still want to make the lightsaber your own when you engage in cosplay and dueling.
To make your lightsaber stand out among the masses, look for a brand name that provides optimal customization features. The X-TREX SABER, for example, allows you to change your blade color just by pushing a button.
Having an easily customizable lightsaber for cosplay also saves you money in the long run. Are you going to be Mace Windu? Set the blade to purple. Darth Vader? Set it to Sith red in seconds.
Conclusion
Ultimately, you need to choose the best lightsaber to fit your budget and fighting style. All the above lightsabers are good for dueling to a specific degree and they each pertain to certain skill levels.
There are more expensive options on the market. But whether you’re an experienced duelist or if you’re just breaking into lightsaber dueling, you won’t find more cost-effective lightsabers than those listed above.
Sion Fawkes has been covering Star Wars since January 2022, expanding his expertise in both Star Wars Canon and Legends. When not writing, you can find Sion in the gym or running trails. He also likes watching sports and listening to audiobooks.