10 Best Plein Air Easels 2025 in the United States

The MEEDEN Plein Air Easel stands out for its versatility, making it suitable for both outdoor and indoor painting. With its aluminum tripod and nylon carry bag, it's designed for travel and easy portability. The easel weighs 16.5 pounds, which is a bit on the heavier side for a travel easel but still manageable. Its stability is enhanced by the sturdy tripod and rubber bumpers, ensuring a firm setup on various surfaces.

Adjustability is a strong feature, with the hinged adjustment arm allowing for multiple painting angles, including flat for watercolor work. The quick-release plate is a convenient addition, making setup and breakdown quick and easy. The large storage space with removable dividers and a wood palette is practical for organizing art supplies.

The beech material, while durable, adds to the weight and may not be as lightweight as some other materials. Additionally, while the easel is easy to set up, its 16.5-pound weight might be a drawback for artists looking for a more lightweight option. This easel is ideal for artists who value versatility and stability and do not mind a bit of extra weight for enhanced durability and storage options.

The U.S. Art Supply Large Beechwood French Easel is a solid choice for artists who enjoy painting outdoors or need a versatile option for both field and studio use. It weighs about 12 pounds, which makes it a bit on the heavier side compared to some ultralight easels, but the sturdy beechwood construction adds excellent stability and durability. This easel folds into a compact sketchbox with a leatherette handle and shoulder strap, making it fairly portable despite its weight. The included drawer with compartments helps keep your art supplies organized, which is great for staying tidy on the go.

Adjustability is a strong point here: the easel can hold canvases up to 34 inches and extends up to 72 inches tall, with legs that have rubber feet for extra steadiness on uneven ground. Setting it up doesn’t require assembly, and it easily converts from a box to a tripod stand, which many artists will find user-friendly. The natural oil finish on the wood looks nice and helps protect it from outdoor conditions.

If you’re looking for something ultra-light for hiking or travel, this easel might feel a bit heavy and bulky. Also, while the portability is good for car-to-spot painting, it might not suit those who prefer a minimalist setup due to its size and weight. For those wanting a dependable, durable easel with storage and solid performance for plein-air painting, this model presents a well-rounded option.

The U.S. Art Supply Coronado Small Box Wooden French Style Field and Studio Sketchbox Easel is a versatile option for artists who enjoy painting outdoors or in the studio. One of its main strengths is its lightweight design, weighing only 11.33 pounds, making it easy to transport. When folded, it becomes compact and features a leatherette carry handle and shoulder strap for added portability, essential for plein air artists who need to move around frequently.

Stability is also a highlight, thanks to its sturdy tripod structure and rubber feet, which help keep the easel grounded during use. The adjustable height, reaching up to 72 inches, allows artists to find the perfect angle for their work, accommodating different canvas sizes up to 34 inches.

Another advantage is the built-in storage sketchbox, which includes a removable drawer and additional compartments. This feature provides excellent organization for art supplies, including paints, brushes, and sketch pads—ideal for artists who like to keep their materials at hand while working.