The Best Plasma Balls
Whether you're looking for a unique lighting source or a device to teach your kids all about science, it makes sense to buy a plasma ball. These futuristic lamps contain a mixture of gases that interact with a charged electrode to create magnificent tendrils of light. To make your search for the ultimate plasma ball experience easier, we've found a few of the best ones available on the market today. Read on to check out our favorites.
What to Look For
During the research process, we considered size, features, reactivity levels, design, durability, and more to determine which plasma balls stood out from the crowd. Our favorite model, a seven-inch ball from Katzco, offers two interactive modes and a gorgeous light show. But if you’re looking for a unique twist, the vibrant green option from Kicko might tickle your fancy. Check out our reviews below to find your newest showpiece.
Katzco 7″ Plasma Ball
Lights, plasma, action
If you imagine the perfect plasma ball that’s filled not only with a magnificent array of colors and lights, but also interesting features, this one likely fits the picture. This plasma ball has a seven-inch diameter, giving you plenty of space to explore its surface. It stands on a secure base and has an easy-to-use switch to change between its different modes. The first mode reacts only to touch, which is great for when you’re using it as a light or decoration but don’t necessarily want it to interact with background noise. The second mode reacts to both sound and touch, allowing the device to become an extension of your environment.
Pros:
- This plasma ball plugs into a wall outlet with a six-foot cord, allowing you to set it in a variety of places while still being able to reach an outlet.
- The glass and metal materials conduct electricity well, giving you the best possible plasma ball experience.
Cons:
- This can get hot, so it should always be used under adult supervision.
Lebbeen 4″ Glass Plasma Ball
If sound activation is your goal, this is the plasma ball for you, as its main purpose is to react to sound. It is quite sensitive, so when it comes to clapping, music, and voices, its responsiveness makes it a winner. It also reacts to touch, so you won’t have to miss out on that feature. This plasma ball is on the smaller side, measuring in at just four inches wide. However, the brilliant display makes up for what it lacks in size. Its small form factor also makes it perfect for desktops, bedroom nightstands, and whatever other small spaces you might want to introduce a bit of psychedelic light into.
Pros:
- Unlike most other plasma balls in this price range, this one is made of real glass, making it supremely responsive.
- Parents, take note: under supervision, this can serve as a great science experiment for kids to explore. Consider buying this as a gift for a young one.
Cons:
- It is pretty small, so if you have a lot of space in the room you plan to put this in, you might prefer a larger plasma ball.
Kicko 7″ Green Plasma Ball
Most plasma balls on the market today feature the traditional purple-pink plasma color, but this ball provides an intriguing green color instead. This color difference is excellent for those who are looking for something a bit more unique — or for folks who just love the color green. This plasma ball boasts a large design, as it measures seven inches across. It has a six-foot-long power cord for convenient use, and it reacts to both touch and sound in its two interactive modes.
Pros:
- If you have a very young kid at home, this plasma ball will intrigue them. It’s rated safe for ages 3+, making it a great choice for kids and adults alike (though you should always supervise youngsters while they use this).
- The sound mode is able to react to both voices and music, giving you plenty of options to help create a fun display.
Cons:
- Unfortunately, this plasma ball does not have a mode where touch and sound work simultaneously.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do plasma balls work?
Plasma balls create reactions with electricity. At the center of the ball, there is something called an electrode. This electrode creates a current that is both high-frequency and high-voltage. The current is triggered as a reaction to either sound or touch (depending on the mode you set your device in and the features it comes with). That current is then sent through little strings called plasma filaments, which creates the fascinating light show that you see.
What gives a plasma ball its color?
The colors inside of a plasma ball are a result of a specific gas that is placed inside. Some gasses that are commonly used include krypton and neon. These gasses are used in low amounts, so they’re typically not harmful, even if the plasma ball breaks.
Are plasma balls easy to break?
Plasma balls are very fragile since they are often made out of glass. Because of this, they should always be kept in a safe place that is not easily bumped or moved. They should also be supervised when being used around children, as kids may be more likely to tip them over accidentally.
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