🥇 ShopSavvy Best Picks

Expert recommendations for the best overall, budget, and specialized product picks.

Our researchers bring you our top recommendations. Each article usually highlights the best overall choice, a budget-friendly option, and picks for specific needs, helping you shop smarter and with confidence.

More to Explore

TLDR REVIEW

Best Video Production Clapperboards in 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: January 5th, 2024

🎬In the fast-paced world of video production, a clapperboard isn't just a nice accessory—it's a crucial tool for keeping everything synced and organized on set. Whether you're an experienced filmmaker or just starting out, picking the right clapperboard can really streamline your workflow.

After checking out the market thoroughly, we've picked out some of the best options to make your next filming session a breeze. Here are our top clapperboard picks for 2024.

🥇
Overall Best: Neewer Acrylic Clapperboard

NEEWER Acrylic Film Movie Directors Clapper Board Kit, 12"x10" Plastic Movie Theater Cut Action Scene Clapboard with a Magnetic Eraser, 2 Water Based Pens, a Cleaning Cloth & L Shaped Hex Key (White)

The Neewer Acrylic Clapperboard is our top choice for the best overall clapperboard, thanks to its exceptional balance of durability, affordability, and practicality. It features black-and-white sticks that offer crisp visual and audio cues, ensuring consistency across takes. The high-contrast lettering is easily readable, even from a distance, which is crucial in a fast-paced filming environment. Made from durable acrylic, this clapperboard can withstand the tough conditions on set. The magnetic sticks guarantee a reliable snap every time, and its surface is compatible with dry-erase markers for quick, smudge-free updates. Versatile enough for various types of shoots, including commercials, indie films, and web series, the Neewer Acrylic Clapperboard is an indispensable tool for any filmmaker.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$21.99 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Neewer Film Directors Clapper Board? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

🎬

How durable is the NEEWER Acrylic Film Clapper Board?

The durability of the NEEWER Acrylic Film Clapper Board really comes down to how you use and care for it. It's designed specifically for film production, so it doesn't quite function like your typical office whiteboard. Based on our research, it's best to stick with the water-based pens that come with it, as they're perfect for the acrylic surface. Using these markers helps keep the board in good shape over time. On the other hand, dry erase markers might leave some stubborn residue if not cleaned off properly, which can even lead to permanent marks. The manufacturer's description advises against using oil-based pens, since they can leave permanent stains. Thankfully, the board comes with a magnetic eraser and cleaning cloth to keep it clean when using the recommended markers. If you frequently need to erase and rewrite, using these suggested items is pretty important. For tougher stains, some folks found that a little car wax can do wonders for cleaning without damaging the board. Just remember, while it might seem like a whiteboard in some ways, it's actually built with film production in mind. If you take care of it and use it as intended, it should last and serve well throughout your projects.

🎬

How loud is the clap sound on the NEEWER Acrylic Film Clapper Board?

So, about the volume of the clap sound on the NEEWER Acrylic Film Clapper Board—it's not specifically detailed in the manufacturer's product description, which isn't surprising since clapper boards often don't come with that detail. But according to our research, it seems like it has a good enough clap for most casual film and video projects. People working at the hobbyist or amateur level find it does the job well. The clap is clear and audible enough to line up with the visuals during editing, which is really what you want for non-professional work. If you're in a super noisy setting or on a big professional set, you might need something a little more heavy-duty, but for home studios or smaller projects, this one should work just fine. Oh, and a quick tip: The board uses these custom water-based markers that come with it. They’re recommended because regular dry erase markers might leave some nasty residue or stains, something we've seen pop up in a few reviews. As for the build, it's not top-tier like the ones used by major productions, but it'll hold up for casual use. Just keep an eye on the screws; some reviews suggest tightening them now and then to keep it in good shape. In short, if you're getting this for non-professional filming, it'll probably serve you well, especially if you stick to using the markers it comes with. It's affordable and functional, which makes it a nice pick for new filmmakers or anyone doing smaller video projects. Just remember, it's not really built to compete with the priciest models out there, but it’s a decent option for those starting out or working on less demanding shoots.

🎬

Does the NEEWER Acrylic Film Clapper Board work with dry erase markers?

Yep, the Neewer Acrylic Film Clapper Board works with dry erase markers, which is super handy for quick changes on set. The manufacturer's description mentions it's around 12" by 10", so there's plenty of room to scribble on. That's really useful when you're trying to sync up audio and video. From what we've gathered, lots of folks find it really practical. It's got a magnetic eraser, making it easy to wipe clean and reset for the next take. Definitely a time-saver when you're in the middle of shooting. On the flip side, some people have mixed feelings about its durability. While it looks nice and offers good value for the price, our data shows that parts can get a bit loose over time. A few quick fixes, like some tape or thread sealant, can help keep it sturdy. So, handle it gently to make it last. It's probably best for hobbyists or small projects rather than big, intense productions. It’s lightweight and portable, a plus if you're always on the go with your film gear. Just remember, you might need to do a little maintenance now and then. Overall, if you're looking for an affordable clapper board for light to moderate use, this could be a good pick. It’s easy to use with dry erase markers and comes in handy for various setups.

View All Answers for

🥈
Runner-up: Elvid 9-section Acrylic Production Slate With Color Clapper Sticks

As the runner-up, the Elvid 9-section Acrylic Production Slate offers impressive features with its vibrant color clapper sticks and sturdy acrylic construction. The color sticks provide clear visual cues, which are essential for precise audio and video synchronization. Its nine sections offer ample space for noting important details like production title and camera angle, aiding in the continuity of the shoot. The powerful magnets in the clapper sticks ensure a robust clap every time, vital for high-paced shooting environments. Additionally, pre-drilled holes for hanging or attaching a lanyard improve its functionality and accessibility on set. This clapperboard is an excellent choice for those who value both efficiency and reliability.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

💸
Budget Pick: Andoer Acrylic Clapboard

For budget-conscious filmmakers, the Andoer Acrylic Clapboard is an outstanding option. Despite its lower price point, it doesn't compromise on essential features. Crafted from durable acrylic, this clapperboard features high-contrast lettering for clear visibility and supports dry-erase markers for quick and easy updates between takes. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle, perfect for filmmakers seeking practicality and durability without breaking the bank. The Andoer Acrylic Clapboard provides excellent value for its price, making it an ideal choice for students, indie filmmakers, or anyone working within a tight budget.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$19.99 at Amazon

Best for Customization: Filmsticks Custom Engraved Film Slate

The Filmsticks Custom Engraved Film Slate is the best pick for those needing a personalized touch. This clapperboard offers custom engraving options, allowing productions to showcase their unique identity. Made from premium materials, it’s designed to withstand various environmental conditions while maintaining legibility. The engraved details ensure that the text won’t fade over time, making it both a functional and stylish investment for any filmmaker. If you’re looking to add a personalized and professional touch to your production, the Filmsticks Custom Engraved Film Slate is an excellent choice.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

Best Digital Clapperboard: Pearstone Digistick Digital Slate

For productions that require advanced technology, the Pearstone DigiStick Digital Slate is the best digital option available. It features a clear timecode display that remains readable even in direct sunlight and syncs seamlessly with professional editing systems. Its durable construction is designed to endure the demanding conditions of on-set environments, while the backlit display and precise clapping sound are indispensable for post-production sync. The DigiStick’s intuitive interface makes it user-friendly, and its long battery life supports extended shooting days without the need for frequent recharges. The Pearstone DigiStick Digital Slate is a must-have for high-tech productions aiming for precision and efficiency.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

Get ShopSavvy

ShopSavvy is totally free and works on all popular phones and browsers