How to Buy the Best Reading Light
When you’re searching for the perfect reading light, you should to keep in mind both where and how it will be used. First, which types and sizes of book will your light be used to illuminate? If it only needs to provide light for standard size mass market paperbacks, a smaller, single LED or incandescent design will probably be fine. If it must evenly light a large dictionary, then you’ll need a light designed for significantly greater light output distributed over a considerably larger area. Another consideration is whether you like the warmer, slightly golden glow of an incandescent light or the whiter, cooler output of modern LEDs.
Another significant consideration is maintenance. While both LED and incandescent designs require approximately the same amount of power, using up batteries with about equal speed, incandescent designs have a life expectancy of approximately 15-25 hours of use. LEDs, while only slightly higher in price than incandescent designs, typically provide lifetimes between 5,000-50,000 hours of use. Obviously, LEDs will be much less expensive to maintain over the long haul if the reading light will be used for more than 15-25 hours.
Many 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 where an A/C outlet isn’t close, but it can be expensive to replace batteries, as most new alkaline batteries provide sufficient power only for approximately 20-30 hours of use. A good option to consider would be a good recharger and set of 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 can also be used to secure your reading light to a podium, music stand or piano music rack, which greatly increases the range of uses for your light. Some designs also offer an optional cradle which allows your light to be secured to any ferrous surface, such as an appliance, a car fender, hood or trunk lid, etc. The potential applications are unlimited.
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