The Difference Between RGB and Neopixel Lightsabers

The lightsabers used in the Star Wars universe are some of the most iconic sci-fi weapons in cinematic history. The energy swords, which feature glowing plasma blades of different colours are highly beloved by fans of the franchise. These fans show their love for Star Wars and lightsabers by owning and collecting different replicas of the weapons.

However, with several new and improved models of replica lightsabers hitting the market every day, lightsaber enthusiasts and Star Wars fans are spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing replica lightsabers.

In this piece, we shall be taking a closer look at the two common types of replica lightsabers that can help illuminate your way as you transport yourself into the world of Star Wars. These two replica lightsaber types are RGB (baselit) lightsabers and Neopixel lightsabers.

Keep reading to learn what they are and what differences exist between them.

RGB Vs. Neopixel Lightsabers: What are They?

The traditional models of replica lightsabers typically came with blades that featured single colours (either blue or green for Jedi, or red for Sith). The introduction of RGB blades brought about a new level of customisation to the replica lightsaber community, as lightsaber owners could now change and customise the colour of their blades.

An RGB lightsaber is a lightsaber that comes with multiple LED colour options and a colour-changing feature that allows its blade to change from one colour to another during use. Although RGB stands for Red, Green, and Blue, most RGB lightsabers usually come equipped with a variety of colours. The types of colours available on an RGB lightsaber would typically vary depending on the saber’s model and its manufacturer.

NeoPixel lightsabers, on the other hand, are a newer generation of replica lightsabers that utilise Neopixel LED technology to create vibrant blade colours and more advanced visual effects. They typically have strips of individually addressable LEDs installed inside their blades. These individually addressable LEDs offer more customisability and unlimited lighting options, which make for a truly immersive lightsaber experience.

Differences Between RGB and Neopixel Lightsabers

Both RGB and Neopixel lightsabers can be used for display, cosplay, and lightsaber dueling. However, there are some key differences between both types of lightsabers, and understanding these differences can help you pick a saber that has all of the important features that you want.

Below, we shall be looking at the differences between RGB and Neopixel lightsabers in terms of blade type and quality, blade colours and visual effects, customisation, lightsaber components, dueling capacity, and limitations.

Blade Type and Quality

When looking at the differences between RGB and Neopixel lightsabers, one very important component you need to consider is the lightsaber blade. This is especially important if you plan on using your lightsaber for some light sparring or heavy dueling. Both RGB and Neopixel lightsabers come with either low-grade, mid-grade, or heavy-grade polycarbonate blades. However, because the LEDs of neopixel lightsabers are placed inside the blade, they run a higher risk of getting damaged from heavy and intense dueling conditions. It is for this reason that many duelists prefer to duel with RGB lightsabers whose LED strips are built in-hilt.

Because neopixel lightsabers have their LEDs built inside their polycarbonate blades, they tend to shine brighter than RGB lightsabers. They also offer a wide range of blade effects that make wielding them more animated and fun.

Blade Colours and Visual Effects

Thanks to their neopixel LED technology, neopixel blades offer a level of brightness that is unmatched. Their wide variety of blade colours appear fuller and are much more vibrant than the colours produced by standard RGB lightsabers. They also come with special visual effects and animations that make them the ideal choice for cosplay.

RGB lightsabers also come with a variety of blade colours and visual effects, but none as advanced as neopixel blades.

Customisability

Both RGB and Neopixel lightsabers offer customisation options, but neopixel is better. A standard RGB lightsaber uses a single LED to produce light. This light is then passed through a coloured lens to give the blade a desired hue. While this does allow for decent customisation, the quality of colours produced by this type of lightsaber is not nearly as vibrant or accurate as those produced by a neopixel blade.

Neopixel blades are illuminated with multiple tiny, individually addressable LEDs that offer maximum brightness. Because each LED is individually controlled, neopixel blades offer room for more customisation from different colour shades and hues to effects such as unstable lights, rainbow effect, and tip drag.

Neopixel lightsabers also offer different modes and a variety of sound fonts. These sound fonts can be customised, especially with the Neopixel Proffie models sold by lightsaber companies like Padawan Outpost. This customisability allows you to make your lightsaber truly your own.

Lightsaber Components

RGB lightsabers and Neopixel lightsabers share the same basic components – a hilt (metal or plastic) that houses the saber’s electronics and is connected to the polycarbonate blade. The hilt is also where the saber controls are placed. The only hilt difference they have is a change of radiance where RGB lightsabers are base-lit while the base of neopixel lightsabers do not light up.

Dueling Capacity

When it comes to dueling, one needs a lightsaber that offers good durability and sturdiness. Both RGB and neopixel lightsabers can be used for lightsaber dueling; however, in order to avoid damaging the LEDs of your neopixel blade, it is recommended that you only go for the best quality heavy-grade polycarbonate blade.

Limitations

With RGB lightsabers, the limitations are restrictive specifications of effects and duller blade lights. Neopixel lightsabers, on the other hand, tend to drain more power (because of their wide range of complex effects), and they are more expensive. Neopixel lightsabers do, however, make up for their high costs with the wide range of advanced features that they offer.

Conclusion

RGB and Neopixel lightsabers are both great choices for Star Wars fans looking to update their collection. They can both be used for display, cosplay, and dueling. However, they do still have some distinct features, and understanding these different features can help you choose a lightsaber that will give you the ultimate galactic experience.