Portable Easels for Artists Who Paint Anywhere
The US Art Supply 151C French Style Box Easel is our top pick for most artists. It combines a sturdy wooden build with a built-in storage box and adjustable canvas holder. It is ideal for plein air painting, but its weight makes it less suitable for long hikes.
A portable easel lets you take your art studio wherever inspiration strikes. Whether you sketch in a park or paint on a mountaintop, the right model balances stability with easy transport.
We compared seven popular portable easels available on Amazon, focusing on build quality, portability, and user feedback. Owners report that a good easel can withstand wind and uneven ground while remaining light enough to carry.
Our selection covers a range of styles: box easels, tripod easels, and tabletop versions. Each product has been chosen for its real-world performance based on specifications and owner reviews.
Read on to find the perfect travel companion for your next masterpiece.
Our top picks
US Art Supply 151C French Style Box Easel
This wooden easel folds into a compact box with a handle. It includes a metal tray for supplies and adjustable canvas holders. Weighing about 10 pounds, it offers stability and storage in one unit.
Pros
- Sturdy build supports heavy canvases
- Built-in storage box keeps supplies organized
- Easy to set up in under a minute
Cons
- Heavier than tripod easels
- Handle is not padded
Mabef M/05 Tabletop Easel
This beechwood easel sits on any table and folds flat for storage. It has a 3-position tilt and a steel canvas rest. Owners like its simple design and low price.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Compact and lightweight
- Adjustable angle for comfortable painting
Cons
- Requires a stable table
- Not suitable for large canvases
MEEDEN Tabletop Easel for Painting
This solid beechwood easel supports canvases up to 24 inches. It has a smooth sliding canvas holder and folds flat for easy storage. A rubber grip prevents slipping on the table.
Pros
- Rubber base keeps it firmly in place
- Smooth adjustment mechanism
- Sturdy enough for oil painting
Cons
- No storage compartment
- Only for tabletop use
Pro Art Artist Easel
This aluminum tripod easel weighs under 3 pounds and folds to 24 inches. It has a shoulder strap and rubber feet for stability. The telescopic legs adjust to different heights.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Folds small enough for a backpack
- Adjustable legs for uneven ground
Cons
- Less stable in windy conditions
- No canvas shelf, only top clamp
Ohuhu 60.2″ Aluminum Field Easel
This aluminum easel extends to 60 inches, accommodating large canvases. It includes a canvas shelf and a sturdy tripod base. Owners report it handles outdoor breezes well when staked.
Pros
- Supports very tall canvases
- Comes with a carrying bag
- Easy to adjust height
Cons
- Slightly heavier than other tripods
- Not for use on slippery floors
Mont Marte Tabletop Easel
This wooden easel is simple to set up with a single knob. It has a canvas rest and a clip at the top. It is ideal for hobbyists who want a no-fuss option.
Pros
- Very easy to use
- Lightweight and compact
- Attractive wood finish
Cons
- No tilt adjustment
- Only for small canvases
Aluminum Portable Tabletop Easel by Artify
This aluminum easel is lightweight and has a built-in clip to hold paper. It folds to a small size and fits in a bag. It is best for sketching and small paintings.
Pros
- Ultra compact
- Rubber tips protect surfaces
- Ideal for travel
Cons
- Not stable for heavy canvases
- No height adjustment
How to choose
Side by side
| # | Model | Material | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | US Art Supply 151C French Style Box Easel | Beechwood | Best for serious plein air painters | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Mabef M/05 Tabletop Easel | Beechwood | Best for tabletop painting | 8.6 | Check price |
| 3 | MEEDEN Tabletop Easel for Painting | Beechwood | Best for small canvases | 8.8 | Check price |
| 4 | Pro Art Artist Easel | Aluminum | Best for travel and quick setups | 8.4 | Check price |
| 5 | Ohuhu 60.2″ Aluminum Field Easel | Aluminum | Best for tall canvases | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | Mont Marte Tabletop Easel | Rubberwood | Best for beginners | 8.3 | Check price |
| 7 | Aluminum Portable Tabletop Easel by Artify | Aluminum | Best for outdoor sketching | 8.0 | Check price |
Good to know
What is the best portable easel for travel?
For travel, a lightweight tripod easel like the Pro Art Artist Easel is ideal. It folds to a small size and weighs less than 3 pounds, making it easy to carry in a backpack.
Can I use a tabletop easel outdoors?
Yes, you can use a tabletop easel on a picnic table or any flat surface. However, it is not as portable as a tripod easel and requires a stable base.
How do I secure a canvas on a portable easel?
Most portable easels have a top clamp and a bottom shelf or adjustable pins. Position the canvas on the shelf and tighten the top clamp to hold it securely.
What is the difference between a French box easel and a tripod easel?
A French box easel includes a built-in storage box for supplies and often a metal tray. It is heavier but more versatile. A tripod easel is lighter and has three legs for support.
Are wooden easels better than aluminum ones?
Wooden easels offer a classic feel and often more stability for heavy canvases, but they are heavier. Aluminum easels are lightweight, rust-resistant, and good for outdoor conditions.
What is the maximum canvas size these easels can hold?
The maximum canvas height varies. The Ohuhu easel supports up to 60 inches, while tabletop models typically handle up to 24 inches. Check each product’s specifications.
Do portable easels come with a carrying case?
Some models, like the Ohuhu and US Art Supply, include a carrying bag or have a built-in handle. Others may not, so consider purchasing a separate case.
Can I use a portable easel for oil painting?
Yes, many portable easels are suitable for oil painting. Look for sturdy models with a stable base and adjustable tilt, like the US Art Supply French box easel.
The bottom line
For most artists, the US Art Supply 151C French Style Box Easel offers the best balance of storage, stability, and versatility. It is worth the extra weight for the convenience of having your supplies at hand. If you need a lighter option for hiking, the Pro Art Artist Easel is a reliable choice, but you will need to carry paints separately.
