posted by admin on Sep 2
When you’re looking for the perfect reading light, you should to consider both how and where it will be used. First, which types and sizes of book will it be used to illuminate? 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 it 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 prefer the warmer, slightly golden glow of an incandescent light source or the whiter, cooler output of modern LEDs.
Another important consideration is the cost of maintenance. While LED and incandescent lights use 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 they are only slightly more expensive than incandescent designs, typically last between 5,000-50,000 hours of use. Obviously, LEDs will cost much less to maintain over the long haul if the reading light will be used constantly.
Most modern reading light designs provide the flexibility of being powered by batteries or A/C operation. Obviously, battery power is convenient when the light will be used where an A/C outlet isn’t handy, but it can be 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 recharger and rechargeable batteries.
Lastly, a reading light typically comes with a sturdy clip which allows the light to be securely attached to your book, book stand or book holder. The clip can also be used to attach your reading light to a music stand, podium, desk, piano or organ music rack, etc, which exponentially increases the uses for your light. Some designs offer an optional cradle that allows your clip on reading light to be mounted to any ferrous surface, such as an appliance, an automotive fender, hood or trunk lid, etc. The potential applications are unlimited.