10 lightsabers in the Star Wars universe, ranked by design

Star Wars Universe lightsabers
10 Star Wars lightsabers that won fans over with their cool design (Image via Star Wars Official Website)

The worldwide popularity that lightsabers have acquired over the years is thanks to George Lucas' Star Wars. It would be hard to imagine fan-favorite heroes in the Star Wars universe going head-to-head with intimidating enemies without powerful lightsabers in their arsenal. Fans have come to associate the instantly recognizable drone and hum of the lightsaber with unforgettable epic duels.

Seeing as how lightsabers are part and parcel of the overall narrative, it is not surprising to note that several of them have become almost as iconic as their well-known wielders. Keeping in line with the growing interest in lightsabers, the franchise continues to develop the designs and legacy in order to give fans something new to look forward to in each new installment.

While several lightsabers have been introduced in the Star Wars universe, this list takes a look at some particularly interesting ones that boast striking design as well as functionality.

Disclaimer: This list contains information from various sources. It contains some spoilers.


Crossguard Lightsaber, Saberstaff and eight other Star Wars lightsabers that are too cool to ignore

10) Dooku's Lightsaber

Fans loved watching the lightsaber duel between Dooku and Yoda (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
Fans loved watching the lightsaber duel between Dooku and Yoda (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
Created byCount Dooku
DebutStar Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2002)
CastChristopher Lee

The Star Wars universe has many big names attached to it but some actors in particular will always be remembered for leaving a lasting impact on fans. Christopher Lee is one such example. The established English actor appeared in three Star Wars movies as Count Dooku. Lee's commanding voice and detailed portrayal resonated with fans from around the world.

As a former Jedi Master, Dooku is skilled in combat and Lee's knowledge of fencing, which he had played as a young man, shines through in the duel scenes. In terms of unique lightsabers, Dooku's lightsaber certainly makes the list due to its unusual curved design. As Dooku prefers using one hand, the curved hilt allows him to have more control during duels and also against multiple opponents.

Where to watch: Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones can be streamed on Disney+, Prime Video and Apple TV+.


9) Ahsoka's White Lightsabers

Although Ahsoka is not the only character to use two lightsabers, she seems to have a particular knack of using them to her advantage (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
Although Ahsoka is not the only character to use two lightsabers, she seems to have a particular knack of using them to her advantage (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
Created byAhsoka Tano
DebutThe Mandalorian, Season 2 (2020)
CastRosario Dawson

Ahsoka Tano's journey so far hasn't exactly been a cakewalk but the various challenges and experiences along the way have helped her grow. And so, it is only natural that her lightsabers have seen their fair share of changes as well. When the character, portrayed by Rosario Dawson, appeared in the second season of The Mandalorian with two white lightsabers, fans were both intrigued and excited.

The sleek and slightly curved lightsabers are inspired by Japanese Katana and Shoto swords. One has a long hilt and blade while the reverse grip saber is shorter. The reason for the distinctive color lies in the fact that Ahsoka had to purify Sith-corrupted kyber crystals to use them. The differently-sized lightsabers greatly complement Ahsoka's aggressive dueling style.

Where to watch: The Mandalorian is available for streaming on Disney+.


8) Mace Windu's Lightsaber

This lightsaber is memorable because it was the first one that was purple in color (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
This lightsaber is memorable because it was the first one that was purple in color (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
Created byJedi Master Mace Windu
DebutStar Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones (2002)
CastSamuel L. Jackson

There are very few actors who can match Samuel L. Jackson's commanding screen presence which is why fans were understandably excited when he joined the cast. Jackson brought a certain depth and refinedness to the Jedi master role which was much appreciated.

Mace Windu's lightsaber in particular became a topic of discussion among fans because of its unique color. Before Jackson's character, Jedi primarily wielded sabers in two colors so when Windu's purple plasma blade made an appearance, it made a strong impression on viewers. Also, the electrum finish of the saber denotes that he is a senior member of the Jedi High Council.

Where to watch: Star Wars: Episode II - Attack of the Clones can be streamed on Disney+, Prime Video and Apple TV+.


7) Luke Skywalker's Green Lightsaber

This lightsaber has become synonymous with Luke's character (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
This lightsaber has become synonymous with Luke's character (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
Created byLuke Skywalker
DebutStar Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi (1983)
CastMark Hamill

The iconic status of the blue-bladed Skywalker lightsaber cannot be undermined however when Luke loses the legendary saber, he creates a new one that is equally impressive. Fans have come to associate this particular saber with Luke's legacy over the years. In terms of the design, it is simple yet elegant and emits a green plasma blade.

As Luke was inspired by his master's saber, the hilt of the green lightsaber is quite similar to Obi-Wan Kenobi's third lightsaber. It should also be mentioned that compared to the blue blade, the green blade tends to stand out when he finds himself in a duel with Darth Vader and his strikingly red lightsaber.

Where to watch: Star Wars: Episode VI - Return of the Jedi can be viewed on Disney+, Apple TV+ and Prime Video.


6) Vernestra's Lightsaber

This lightsaber can switch between two modes (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
This lightsaber can switch between two modes (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
Created byVernestra Rwoh
DebutThe Acolyte (2024)
CastRebecca Henderson

Star Wars fans particularly watch out for lightsaber reveals because each one is unique depending on the wielder. In the case of Vernestra Rwoh, viewers were thrilled to see that her saber could operate in two different modes. A teenage prodigy turned leader of the Order, Vernestra certainly possesses the skills to think beyond the conventional design.

It was originally the same as most single-bladed sabers but she made modifications after the design came to her in a dream. This fascinating saber has two modes namely lightsaber and lightwhip. She added a ring just below the blade emitter which enabled her to switch modes as and when required.

Where to watch: The Acolyte can be streamed on Disney+.


5) Darth Vader's Lightsaber

This is one of the most iconic lightsabers of all time (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
This is one of the most iconic lightsabers of all time (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
Created byAnakin Skywalker
DebutStar Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope (1977)
CastDavid Prowse

In the Star Wars universe, fans have come across several formidable antagonists but Darth Vader ranks especially high on the list of most memorable villains. From his intimidating mask and cape to his famous crimson lightsaber, Darth Vader come to be known as a cultural icon over the years.

The sinister color is not the only reason why Vader's lightsaber is held in high regard. Featuring a black-ridged handgrip, the saber contains two dual-phase focusing crystals which enabled him to adjust the blade's length manually. This seemingly simple function proved to be a big advantage as it prompted opponents to misjudge the distance during close combat.

Where to watch: Star Wars: Episode IV - A New Hope is available for streaming on Disney+, Prime Video, and Apple TV+.


4) Baylan Skoll's Lightsaber

Fans have many theories about the unique color of this lightsaber (Image via Lucasfilm Ltd)
Fans have many theories about the unique color of this lightsaber (Image via Lucasfilm Ltd)
Created byBaylan Skoll
DebutAhsoka (2023)
CastRay Stevenson

Star Wars has seen its fair share of powerful sabers over time however many of the ancient sabers are yet to make their live-action appearances. When Baylan Skoll's unique orange lightsaber was showcased in the Ahsoka teasers, fans were quick to make a connection to the Great Lightsaber.

In Star Wars legends, the Great Lightsaber was used by stronger beings who could wield heavy hilts and powerful blades. Given the considerable size and weight, human-sized species or smaller couldn't effectively use them in combat.

Even though not all has been revealed about the full extent of its powers, Baylan Skoll's lightsaber does display different attributes as compared to standard sabers.

Where to watch: Episodes of Ahsoka can be streamed on Disney+.


3) Maul's Saberstaff

With his saberstaff, Maul can fend off multiple opponents with ease (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
With his saberstaff, Maul can fend off multiple opponents with ease (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
Created byDarth Maul
DebutStar Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace (1999)
CastRay Park

New fans wouldn't think much if they saw a double-bladed lightsaber today but when it first made an appearance in The Phantom Menace back in 1999, it was distinctive enough to leave viewers awestruck. It is especially interesting that the design of the saber is based on ancient plans that were found within a Sith holocron.

Essentially, two lightsabers were fused together to create the saberstaff. Maul included blade modulation controls that allowed him to ignite the blades separately when needed. The saberstaff complemented Maul's aggressive combat style in more ways than one.

Also, thanks to Ray Park's deft and skilled handling of the saberstaff onscreen, fans could indulge in some pretty intense and memorable duels that they hold close to their hearts.

Where to watch: Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace can be viewed on Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Prime Video.


2) The Grand Inquisitor's Lightsaber

This is one of the most intimidating lightsabers in the Star Wars universe (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
This is one of the most intimidating lightsabers in the Star Wars universe (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
Created byThe Grand Inquisitor
Debut Star Wars: Obi-Wan Kenobi (2022)
CastRupert Friend

The first live-action appearance of the Inquisitors was witnessed in the miniseries, Obi-Wan Kenobi. As the primary role of the Inquisitors is to hunt down Jedi, they need to be equipped with sabers that can invoke both fear and distress. And the intimidating double-bladed spinning lightsaber wielded by the Grand Inquisitor (Rupert Friend) hits the nail right on the head.

The unique thing about the design is that it has a ringed emitter that can partially detach from the handgrip. This allows the twin blades to rotate at great speeds and the fact that it needs no effort from the Grand Inquisitor counts as an advantage during grueling battles.

However, the fact that the ringed emitter can be detached from the handgrip can also be a disadvantage, which became apparent during his duels against Darth Vader and Ahsoka.

Where to watch: Obi-Wan Kenobi can be streamed on Disney+.


1) Kylo Ren's Crossguard Lightsaber

The uncommon design of this lightsaber is mostly due to a flawed kyber crystal (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
The uncommon design of this lightsaber is mostly due to a flawed kyber crystal (Image via Star Wars Official Website)
Created byKylo Ren
DebutStar Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens (2015)
CastAdam Driver

When this lightsaber first made an appearance onscreen, fans were understandably intrigued by its unique design. However, it is interesting to note that Kylo Ren didn't exactly start out with the intention of designing it differently. The distinctive design was actually born out of necessity.

When Ren used the dark side of the Force to bleed the kyber crystal in order to make the plasma red, it cracked. Because of this, he had to add lateral vents to his saber. The main idea of the vents on either side of the handle is to help divert the extra heat that is generated by the crystal.

However, Ren is not the first to have this crossgaurd design which can be traced back to Darth Atrius as well as the Great Scourge of Malachor.

Where to watch: Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens is available for streaming on Disney+, Prime Video and Apple TV+.


Even though the Star Wars universe is blessed with many powerful lightsabers, these ones in particular have stood out for their unique colors and designs.

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Edited by Meeta Borah
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