When you’re researching the right reading light, you need to keep in mind both how and where it will be used. First, what size and type of book will it be used with? If it needs only to illuminate standard size so called mass market paperbacks, a smaller, single LED or incandescent design will likely be right. If your reading light must evenly light a large dictionary, then you’ll need a light designed for considerably greater light output evenly distributed over a significantly larger area. Another thing to consider is whether you like the warmer, slightly yellowish glow of an incandescent light source or the whiter, more “sun like” output of modern LEDs.
Another significant consideration is the cost of maintenance. While both incandescent and LED reading lights use about 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 higher in price than incandescent designs, usually have life expectancies of between 5,000-50,000 hours of use. Obviously, LEDs are significantly less expensive to operate over the long run if the light will be used regularly.
Most modern reading light designs provide the flexibility of running on batteries or optional A/C operation. Obviously, battery power is convenient when the light is to be used anywhere an A/C outlet isn’t close, 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 option to consider would be a good recharger and set of rechargeable batteries.
Finally, a reading light typically comes with a clip that makes for easy attachment to your book, book holder or book stand. The clip can also be used to secure your reading light to a music stand, podium, desk, piano or organ music rack, etc, which greatly increases the possible uses for your reading light. Some designs also offer an optional cradle which allows your light to be mounted to any ferrous surface, such as an appliance, a car fender, hood or trunk lid, etc. The potential uses are unlimited.
