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How do I Choose the Best LED Book Light?

G. Wiesen
G. Wiesen

To find the best LED book light, you should consider what you want from a light and the types of settings in which you are likely to use it. You should consider how any book light will connect or remain in use to illuminate a book, as there are a number of different types of lights that can be used with many different ways of affixing such lights. It can also be helpful to consider the power source for an LED book light, as some run on different kinds of batteries, while others plug into an electric outlet or run on solar power.

A light emitting diode (LED) is a type of illumination device similar to other light bulbs, but with certain advantages over other forms of illumination. LEDs can be quite small while still providing a good deal of light, and they typically do not produce as much heat as some other types of bulbs. As you consider the best LED book light for your needs, you should think about how bright you want your book light to be. Brightness is typically measured in lumens, and anything over 100 lumens may be too bright for use in a dark room where others are sleeping.

Woman holding a book
Woman holding a book

You should also look at the different ways an LED book light can be connected to a book or otherwise used. Some models use clips that allow the light to attach directly to a book, and when paired with an adjustable neck for the lamp this will allow you to easily adjust the area of illumination. You might also consider an alternative to a standard LED book light such as a head lamp that is often used in construction work. This light is on a headband that can be worn around the top of the head, allowing “hands free” use while illuminating the area you are looking at.

There are also different power sources that can be used with an LED book light, and you should find the right type of power supply for your needs. If you plan on using your light while camping or traveling, you should consider a light that runs on batteries, preferably ones that are easy to find. You might also look for one that folds or collapses for easy transport. You can also choose an LED book light that plugs into a wall socket, if you are concerned about excessive battery usage. There are also book lights that are rechargeable and run on solar power, allowing them to be recharged during the day while not in use.

Discussion Comments

LisaLou

I have never heard of a solar powered book light, but this sounds like a great idea. I read in bed several nights a week and am always looking for a good book light.

I have tried several book reading lights and have found I really like one that is hands free. Using an LED light is the best way to go because the light is so clear and bright.

I think it would be a good idea to use a solar light so you wouldn't have to worry about changing the batteries.

All I would have to do is get in the habit of charging it up every day so I would have the light when I needed it.

myharley

I have always used a clip on book light when I want to read at night. These are very inexpensive and I can even find them at the dollar store.

I keep several of these around so I always have one handy. Many times it is as cheap to replace the whole light as it is to buy the batteries for it. They are also easy to take when I travel and don't take up much room.

I like the clip on book lights that have a flexible neck. This way you can move the light to illuminate where you want it.

Once I get it in position, I don't usually have to move it around much, but it is nice to have the option if you need to adjust it.

John57

I use a LightWedge book light for reading in a dark room. This is a thin lens that fits over the pages of the book and lights up the whole page.

You can find these in different sizes depending on how large or small the book is that you are reading. Some of them will also magnify the page for you.

Since this is so light and thin, I will often use this as a bookmark to keep my place. The only frustration I have with this book light is you have to move it every time you turn the page.

For someone who is looking for a hands free book light, it may not be what you are looking for.

I like it because it keeps the light focused only on the book, and mine also makes the print a little bit larger.

andee

I love to read in bed at night, but needed to find something that would not keep my husband awake while he was trying to sleep.

I am also at the age where I need reading glasses to see the small print in the book. I found some reading glasses that have an LED light on each side of the frame.

This was the perfect solution for me. The light shines directly on the book and does not bother anyone else in the room.

It also leaves my hands free to turn the pages. These lights are battery operated and can be replaced when they run out. This has been the best book light for reading that I have found.

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    • Woman holding a book
      Woman holding a book