5 Best Light Boxes for Tracing Designs in 2024
Posted on January 9, 2025 | Updated on January 9, 2025
Graphic designers practically live in a digital world with all the software that helps them create amazing work. Therefore, it is easy to overlook the value of traditional methods in the creative process. Yet, for many designers and artists, a tracing light box remains vital for bringing their ideas to life. If you are considering investing in one, knowing their different features is essential to help you understand which is best for you.
Why Light Boxes Are Still Relevant in Graphic Design
Software and graphic design tools may have taken over the industry today, but there are still moments when traditional methods take center stage. In some instances, graphic designers may want to achieve a hand-drawn sketch look or refine a concept they’ve already sketched. This is where light boxes prove invaluable.
Suppose a designer is brainstorming concepts for a project. They’ve drawn out multiple ideas, but one stands out for further development. Using a light box, they can retrace the design and transfer it into design software for further refinement.
Light boxes provide clarity and precision, allowing designers to focus solely on perfecting their vision. They are also important for other areas of design. For example, an artist could use one to trace an outline of their photo and paint over the top with watercolor.
Additionally, some designers still like the traditional aspect of drawing by hand since it adds an authentic touch to their work. In a digital-first world, analog methods still have a place in today’s creative workflows.
The Best Tracing Light Boxes to Consider Investing In
Many different types of light boxes are available for drawing out designs. We handpicked the best tracing light boxes in the list below.
1. KOBAIBAN Wireless A4 LED Light Box
This wireless A4 light box will help designers who value precision and efficiency. Firstly, it allows you to work without being tethered to a power source. The wireless design features a high-capacity 3500mAh lithium battery, which lets you draw for up to about five hours at max brightness. This makes it ideal for designers who need a light box, whether on the go or working in their studio.
Another feature to suit your design needs is the customizable lighting options. It comes with three color light modes — cool, warm and neutral. If you trace intricate linework for a branding project, adjusting the light’s warmth can reduce eye strain during extended use.
Graphic designers will also appreciate the ultra-thin, lightweight design. This feature makes it easy to position on a workspace or carry alongside other tools. It even has a memory function, where it remembers your preferred brightness setting. A detail in a product like this will save time and ensure you can quickly dive back into your work.
2. Huion A2 Large Tracing Light Box
The Huion A2 light box provides a generous working surface of 20.47” x 12.6.” Therefore, it is perfect for handling larger projects like storyboarding, poster designs or intricate illustrations. Its expansive size ensures that even complex designs can be traceable without space constraints.
Another key feature is the adjustable brightness. Whether fine-tuning a line drawing or tracing bold designs, the brightness is changeable to fit your needs. With the simple touch of a button, you can evenly light the surface to avoid shadows or dark spots. That way, your lines are always sharp, and the drawing is easy to follow.
While this product may be durable, it is also lightweight. It is crafted with acrylic panels and LED lighting, so the Huion A2 is sturdy enough to support long sessions. The LED lights last up to 50,000 hours of usage, making them good for daily use and larger, time-intensive projects.
3. Rechargeable A3 Light Pad
This A3 light pad is a top choice among the tracing light boxes available. It uses a 2500mAh rechargeable battery to provide a cordless experience for working anywhere. This makes it especially appealing for freelance designers who switch between home studios, co-working spaces and client meetings.
It also offers three color modes — cool, warm and neutral — and six brightness levels, giving designers full control over their lighting. The stepless dimming feature even allows smooth transitions between brightness levels, making it easier to adapt to varying project needs.
This light pad is also unique because of its supportive design. It offers a stand and clip to provide ergonomic comfort, reducing strain and securing material placement. These extra features make drawing convenient, especially for tasks that require precision, like detailed artwork or intricate patterns.
4. Daylight Wafer 3
The Daylight Wafer 3 is a premium option for graphic designers where precision and efficiency are necessary in the creative process. With its 18” x 23.5” work surface, this light box provides ample room for tracing, sketching and working on large-scale designs.
A top feature is its dimmable LED light with a memory function. Designers can adjust the brightness to their liking and save their preferred settings. This will let you take breaks on extensive projects and pick up where you left off.
It also has a uniformly lit surface, so every detail of your artwork is clearly visible, even when working with thicker paper or multiple layers. This aspect is especially important when tracing complex illustrations or working with mixed-media projects.
5. A4 Light Pad
This A4 light pad is compact and affordable, making it a great option for graphic designers and hobbyists. It has three adjustable brightness levels, providing the right light for tracing. The LED light ensures even illumination and comes with a USB cable for continuous power.
With its USB-powered design, you can easily connect it to a laptop, power bank or wall adapter. Even though it needs a cord for power, it is still convenient to work on the go with multiple charging options.
Despite its small size, the A4 Light Pad is still versatile. Designers can use it to trace and sketch neatly and cleanly. It is a simple yet effective light box that makes it an excellent choice for quick tasks or travel.
How to Choose a Tracing Light Box
Tracing light boxes are the perfect item to fit your design workflow, but which do you choose? Here are a few ways to help you make an informed decision:
- Determine your purpose: Think about how you plan to use the light box. Do you typically work on intricate designs, for instance? Then, choose a light box with adjustable brightness and an evenly lighted surface.
- Consider the size: The light box’s size should match the scope of your projects. For instance, A4 is great for small to medium-sized projects, while A2 is more suitable for bigger designs.
- Check the brightness levels: Look for a light box with adjustable brightness settings to adapt to various paper types and tracing needs. Dimmable options prevent eye strain during long periods.
- Assess portability: If you frequently move between workspaces or are always on the go, consider lightweight or wireless options for added convenience.
- Evaluate build quality: A durable light box will last longer and keep up with regular use. Acrylic or high-quality plastic surfaces are ideal for resisting wear and tear.
Find the Best Tracing Light Box for Your Creative Needs
Choosing the best tracing light box is all about understanding your needs as a designer. By considering factors such as size or brightness levels, you can make the right choice that complements your workflow. The products highlighted here are some of the top options for 2024, so you can be sure to craft your best work.
About The Author
Eleanor Hecks is the Editor-in-Chief of Designerly Magazine, an online publication dedicated to providing in-depth content from the design and marketing industries. When she's not designing or writing code, you can find her exploring the outdoors with her husband and dog in their RV, burning calories at a local Zumba class, or curled up with a good book with her cats Gem and Cali.
You can find more of Eleanor's work at www.eleanorhecks.com.