Why You Should Buy the Right Reading Light for Your Reading Pleasure
When you’re researching the best reading light, it is helpful to keep in mind both where and how it will be used. First, which types and sizes of book will it be used to illuminate? If it only needs to illuminate standard size mass market paperback books, a smaller, single LED or incandescent design will likely be right. If your reading light must evenly light a coffee table book, then you’ll need a light designed for significantly greater light output evenly distributed over a considerably larger area. Another consideration is whether you like the warmer, slightly golden glow of an incandescent light or the whiter, more “sun like” output of modern LEDs.
Another important consideration is that of maintenance. While LED and incandescent lights require approximately 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 last 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 running on batteries or optional A/C operation. Obviously, battery power is handy when the light is to be used somewhere an A/C outlet isn’t close, but it can get expensive to replace batteries, as most new alkaline batteries will last only for about 20-30 hours of use. A good alternative to consider would be a good battery recharger and rechargeable batteries.
Finally, a reading light typically incorporates a sturdy clip which makes for easy attachment to your book, book holder or book stand. The clip also makes it possible to secure your reading light to a podium, music stand or piano music rack, which exponentially increases the uses for your reading light. Some designs offer an optional base or cradle that allows your reading light to be affixed to any ferrous surface, such as an appliance, an automotive fender, hood or trunk lid, etc. The potential uses are truly unlimited.