Reading lights: A complete guide
The 21st century can give the 20th century a run for its money in terms of inventions. While the previous century did act as the base for the inventions of the 21st century to even exist but it is an undeniable fact that the inventions and technologies of the 21st century have left all previous inventions in complete bewilderment. While this century is considered to be a new era for the world, there still exist remains of previous centuries. People, both the elderly and the young, have certain things connecting them to the old times. Many people still like to work like how they used to in the olden times. A great example of this is reading books. But the technology has also done its part to modernize these methods. In the case of books, the invention we are focusing on is the reading lights.
I remember wanting to read my favorite book till late at night, way past my bedtime and I used to do that with a small torch in one hand and the book in the other. There are still many people who prefer reading hard bind books rather than e-books and the reading lights is like a savior to us. Reading your favorite book in the dark only the words being visible has their charm, one which only the bibliophiles can understand. Even if it’s not our favorite books, even if it’s just textbooks, reading at night has its charm. So when I found out about these lights, I had to get one for myself. Thus begins my search for the perfect reading light. I was able to narrow it down to a few, which were better than the rest. For all my fellow bookworms, here I am explaining what exactly reading light is and why you should get one ASAP:
What is a reading light?
A reading light is a small source of light that directs the focus of light onto a small area, thus making it easier to focus. Reading lights emit light only to a small, specific area. It cannot be used as a torch or a powerful source of light.
Purpose:
It is used or increasing concentration. The human brain can focus on things much more easily if it is highlighted in any way and with the reading light, the light is focused on a particular area, improving the focus and attention towards that area.
Uses:
A reading light can be used for:
- Reading
- Sketching
- Writing
Advantages:
But why would you use reading lights and not a light bulb, as anyone would do? The answer is simple.
Focus:
You focus. Like I said before, it is easier to focus on a highlighted area than having no specific area. When the surroundings are dark and only the words are visible, your focus increases drastically.
Better overall experience
If you reading a textbook, you will likely be far more focused on the content of the books compared to if you will read it with lights on. In addition to this, if you are reading something else ( a novel, story, article, anything you like), you will be far more focused and will be able to grasp the situation better, improving the overall reading experience.
Good for eyes:
Also, another great benefit is how it does not impact your eyes much. With reading lights, your eyes don’t have to struggle to read the words, thus you will be saving them from a lot of unnecessary strain and won’t risk damaging them.
Choice:
Reading lights come in many different shapes, sizes, and colors. You can choose whichever you like, giving you a wide variety of properties to choose from.
How is it made?
The construction is very simple. There are just a few LEDs, connected to a source that turns it on and off, according to the pressing of a button. The LEDs used are of a certain voltage, to avoid the light being too bright. But now there are some reading lights which even offer the control to the users to adjust the light brightness however they like.
Keep in mind:
When buying reading lights, keep the following in mind to get the most out of them:
The size:
Figure out what size you want and buy a reading light according to that. Buying a reading light that is too small or too big is not going to be good and will decrease the overall reading experience. In addition to this, if the reading light is too small or too big, you will have to put in more effort to adjust the light, resulting in a not-so-good experience.
The brightness:
Another very important thing you must keep in mind is the brightness level, while many reading lights give you the option to adjust the brightness, many don’t. Having a reading light that is too bright or too dim is not a good idea. Not only it is not as enjoyable but also puts strain on the eyes. If the light is too dim, you will have to focus more and if it is too bright, your eyes will sting. Either way, your eyes will endure strain or for obvious reasons, that is not good.
The battery:
This is probably the most important thing you must keep in mind. If the battery of the reading light is too low, it will turn into more of a hassle than an enjoyable experience for you. I’ve had my fair share of reading lights with small battery life and I don’t think anything puts me off more than the light going off when I am at a good part. Keep the battery life in mind.
The lifespan:
This comes close to the battery in terms of what you must keep in mind when buying reading lights. Buying a reading light that will start acting up within a couple of months is not worth it. The lifespan should at least be over a year for it to be worth buying, otherwise, it’s throwing your money down a drain. Always check the lifespan of the light.
Researchbranch’s top-picks:
You now know pretty much all there is for you to know about reading lights. After extensive research and doing a trial and test, we were able to narrow down some of the best reading lights based on our own experience and reviews of the general audience. Those are:
DEWENWILS Amber book reading light
Features:
- USB rechargeable
- Brightness level variations
- Moveable LED lens
- Blue light feature
Glocusent Mini Rechargeable Clip-on
Features:
- 16 LEDs
- Blue Light feature
- 3 color modes
- Brightness level variations
Vision Stepless:
Features:
- 12 LEDs
- Color temperature variations
- Magnetic functions
- Brightness control
Vekkia 14 LED Rechargeable Book reading light
Features:
- Warm/white variation
- 180° adjustable light
- Extendable lighting head
- Brightness control
This is all you need to know about reading lights. Not only is this perfect for yourself but is also a great gift for those who enjoy reading. For more tech-related content and suggestions, comment below.