How to Purchase the Best Reading Light

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

Another important consideration is that of maintenance. While LED and incandescent lights use about the same amount of power, using up batteries with about equal speed, incandescent light sources have a life expectancy of between 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 cost much less to maintain over the long run if the reading light will be used constantly.

Most modern reading light designs offer the flexibility of being powered by batteries or optional A/C operation. Obviously, battery power is convenient when the light will be used where an A/C outlet isn’t close by, but it can get expensive to replace batteries, as most new alkaline batteries last only for approximately 20-30 hours of use. A good alternative to consider would be a good battery recharger and rechargeable batteries.

Finally, a reading light usually comes with a sturdy clip which allows the light to be securely attached to your book, book stand or book holder. The clip also makes it handy to attach your reading light to a podium, music stand or piano music rack, which exponentially increases the range of uses for your reading light. Some designs also offer an optional cradle which allows your light to be secured to any ferrous surface, such as a refrigerator or other appliance, a car fender, hood or trunk lid, etc. The possible uses are unlimited.