Hot Toys USB Powered Sabers and Effects

The main thing I worry about with the lights is how long before the bulbs burn out? I like the USB option even though I do think there’s room for improvement. Once the bulbs burn out though I imagine it’ll be next to impossible to replace them.

Mike86 said:

The main thing I worry about with the lights is how long before the bulbs burn out? I like the USB option even though I do think there’s room for improvement. Once the bulbs burn out though I imagine it’ll be next to impossible to replace them.

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Better train your soldering skills now then.

I've put tons of leds into figures and model kits and never had one burn out. These aren't like those old incandescent bulbs they put in everything.

On a long enough timeline any bulb will burn out but if you’re judicious with their use they’ll last a long long time.

Hope it's okay for me to resurrect this thread with a related question.

Has anyone figured out a good, cost-effective solution for powering multiple USB-effect figures in a display cabinet? Are there any recommended hubs that have multiple USB sockets (ideally enough for several figures), aren't too visually obtrusive, are rechargeable or have thin/long enough power cords to snake through a Milsbo door hinge, and maybe even have the ability to be turned on and off with a remote control? I know that's asking for a lot, but I'm trying to figure out how to make the best use of the light-up features in my display and I have zero immediate ideas.

Thanks very much for any tips!

Without reading the thread beyond the OP's first post here is my opinion:

I agree.


I think HT sort of half-assed the USB powered thing.
I prefer what they did with the commando visors having painted effect that works on its own (no light needed) but button cell powered LED function to enhance it. I also like the use of metallic or reflective paint like what was used on the Kenobi version Purge Trooper visor where again no LED was needed. Takara used clear red plastic with highly reflective backing for the eyes on their Kerberos Panzer Cop figures which was also quite effective.

Basically I like it when a figure can look like it is lit up without the need for any batteries or USB's, just smart use of paint and reflective materials. Having those effects augmented with button cell batteries is even better (like on the mentioned Imperial Commandos).

As for lightsabers that is a tough one. I prefer it when no power is needed but achieving a lit saber look is gonna be tricky with just paint etc. I think it would need to be a dual approach: two separate sabers, one with a non light up white/mirrored core with clear plastic coating and some paint to achieve the look without power for general display then another USB powered saber that works like some of those custom LED sabers which glows really bright. What HT does is half way there: clear plastic non light up blades (they lack a core so look too dark in colour and no illuminated effect which looks cheap) and USB light up blades (which have the dimmest LED's making them look like those 90's toy lightsabers most of us played with, sort of like glow sticks. again looks cheap).

Nice SW collection @davejames! Looks like you have some space left.