When you’re searching for the best reading light, it is helpful to consider both how and where 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 mass market paperbacks, a smaller, single incandescent or LED design will likely be sufficient. If your reading light must light up a coffee table book, then you’ll need a light designed for much greater light output evenly distributed over a significantly larger area. Another consideration 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 LED and incandescent designs require approximately the same amount of power, using up batteries with about equal speed, incandescent light sources have a life expectancy of approximately 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 are much less expensive to service over the long haul if the light will be used regularly.

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 where an A/C outlet isn’t close by, but it can be expensive to replace batteries, as most new alkaline batteries provide sufficient power only for about 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 which securely attaches to your book, book holder or book stand. 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 also offer an optional base or cradle that allows your light to be secured to any ferrous surface, such as an appliance, a car fender, hood or trunk lid, etc. The potential uses are truly unlimited.

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