Chalk boxes are only suitable for vertical lines. For plumb lines on ceilings, the chalk box is the best device.
Plumb bob and chalk box require a bit of practice and patience in the beginning. Which one of theses three measuring devices is favoured is purely down to individual preferences. The chalk line/chalk box is a more modern variation of the theme. The plumb bob is one of the oldest ways of creating a dead straight line (also known as 'plumbing'). The spirit level is the classic amongst those tools it is easy to use and almost every household has one. Three tools with the same purpose: to create a straight line for the first length of wallpaper or the one after an internal corner, respectively.
