How Your Can Purchase the Best Reading Light for Your Reading Pleasure
When you’re searching for the perfect reading light, it is helpful to consider both where and how it will be used. First, what size and type of book will your light be used to illuminate? If it only needs to light standard size so called mass market paperback books, a smaller, single LED or incandescent design will likely be sufficient. If your reading light must evenly light a coffee table book, then you’ll need a reading light designed for significantly greater light output distributed over a considerably larger area. Another consideration 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 that of 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 more expensive than incandescent designs, typically have life expectancies of between 5,000-50,000 hours of use. Obviously, LEDs will cost much less to operate over the long run if the 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 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 about 20-30 hours of use. A good alternative to consider would be a good recharger and rechargeable batteries.
Finally, a reading light usually incorporates a clip that securely attaches 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 light to be secured to any ferrous surface, such as a refrigerator or other appliance, an automotive fender, hood or trunk lid, etc. The possible applications are truly unlimited.