Why You Should Buy the Best Reading Light for You

When you’re searching for the best reading light, it is helpful to be mindful of both where and how it will be used. First, what size and type of book will your light be used to light? If it only needs to light standard size so called mass market paperbacks, a smaller, single LED or incandescent design will probably be sufficient. If your reading light must light up a large dictionary, then you’ll need a reading light designed for much greater light output distributed over a considerably larger area. Another thing to consider is whether you like the warmer, slightly golden glow of an incandescent light source or the whiter, cooler output of modern LEDs.

Another important consideration is maintenance. While both incandescent and LED reading lights require approximately the same amount of power, discharging batteries with about equal speed, incandescent designs have a life expectancy of between 15-25 hours of use. LEDs, while only slightly more expensive than incandescent designs, typically have life expectancies of between 5,000-50,000 hours of use. Obviously, LEDs will be significantly less expensive to maintain over the long haul if the light will be used constantly.

Many modern reading light designs provide the flexibility of running on batteries or optional A/C operation. Obviously, battery power is convenient when the light will be used somewhere an A/C outlet isn’t close by, but it can get expensive to replace batteries, as most fully charged alkaline batteries will 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 typically comes with a 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 music stand, podium, desk, piano or organ music rack, etc, which exponentially increases the range of uses for your light. Some designs also offer an optional cradle that allows your clip on reading light to be affixed 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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