DH Advisor

When you’re researching the right reading light, you should to keep in mind both where and how it will be used. First, which types and sizes of book will it be used to light? If it needs only to provide light for standard size so called mass market paperback books, a smaller, single LED or incandescent design will likely be fine. If your reading light must light up a coffee table book, then you’ll need a reading light designed for considerably greater light output evenly distributed over a considerably larger area. Another consideration is whether you prefer the warmer, slightly yellowish glow of an incandescent light source or the whiter, more “sun like” output of modern LEDs.

Another important consideration is maintenance. While LED and incandescent lights require about the same amount of power, using up batteries with about equal speed, incandescent light sources have a life expectancy of approximately 15-25 hours of use. LEDs, while they are only slightly higher in price than incandescent designs, usually provide lifetimes between 5,000-50,000 hours of use. Obviously, LEDs will be significantly less expensive to operate over the long run if the light will be used regularly.

Most modern reading light designs provide the flexibility of running on batteries or A/C operation. Obviously, battery power is handy when the light is to be used anywhere an A/C outlet isn’t close, but it can be expensive to replace batteries, as most fully charged alkaline batteries last only for about 20-30 hours of use. A good option to consider would be a good recharger and rechargeable batteries.

Lastly, a reading light typically comes with a sturdy clip which securely attaches to your book, book holder or book stand. The clip also makes it possible to attach your reading light to a music stand, podium, desk, piano or organ music rack, etc, which greatly increases the uses for your reading light. Some designs also offer an optional cradle that allows your reading light to be affixed to any ferrous surface, such as a refrigerator or other appliance, an automotive fender, hood or trunk lid, etc. The potential uses are truly unlimited.