MEEDEN HX-3 French Easel Review: Compare the Listings First

A French easel combines a paint box, a stand, and a way to carry a canvas, which is why it remains popular for painting outdoors. The MEEDEN HX-3 follows that classic design. The main thing to sort out before buying is which of its listings you are looking at.

We have not bench-tested this product. This review is based on the manufacturer's published specifications and listing, checked on November 2, 2026. Prices and stock can change, so confirm both at checkout.

The verdict

The HX-3 looks like a sensible all-in-one easel for a painter starting plein air work. Read the listing carefully, because the name stays much the same while the material and price change.

Three listings, three prices

• Solid Beech Wood, HX-3: $119.95, against a $169.95 compare price. Described as German beechwood.
• Solid Beech Wood, HX-3, Light Walnut: $149.95, against a $169.95 compare price. Same beechwood description, in a different finish.
• Wood Plein Air French Easel, HX-3: $119.95, against a $149.95 compare price. Described as pine rather than beech.

Two of these cost the same but list different woods. If material matters to you, the beech listing at $119.95 is the one to compare first. Going by these listings, the Light Walnut version costs $30 more, and we did not find a stated difference beyond the finish.

Key specifications

• Height: adjustable from 57 to 72 inches
• Canvas: up to 34 inches
• Board angle: tilt-forward through to horizontal, for pastel, acrylic, oil, or watercolor
• Storage: 4 compartments, 3 removable slats, and a front drawer on the beech listings
• Carrying: shoulder strap and leather handle
• Stability: 3 foldable legs, with 3 rubber feet on the beech listings

The beech listings also say the legs fold so it can be used as a table easel.

What to check before you buy

We did not find a weight in the listing text we reviewed. Weight matters more than almost anything else if you plan to walk to a painting spot, so check the product page or ask MEEDEN first.

The largest canvases also catch more wind outdoors. A tripod's stability depends on the ground and your canvas size, so don't assume the maximum size suits every location.

Who should skip it

If you always paint in a studio, a floor easel will usually be steadier and hold larger work. If you hike long distances to paint, look for a lighter pochade box, since a full wooden sketchbox is more to carry.

What it costs with a code

Code AALEXSALE is listed for 15% off, which would bring the $119.95 beech listing to about $101.96 if it applies. MEEDEN advertises free shipping sitewide, excluding remote areas.

For paints, carts, and drafting tables, read our MEEDEN ART store review or see all MEEDEN ART offers.