When you’re looking for the perfect reading light, you need to be mindful of both where and how it will be used. First, what size and type of book will your light be used to light? If it needs only to provide light for standard size mass market paperbacks, a smaller, single LED or incandescent design will likely be right. If it must evenly light a coffee table book, then you’ll need a light designed for considerably greater light output distributed over a considerably larger area. Another thing to consider is whether you prefer the warmer, slightly yellowish glow of an incandescent light or the whiter, more “sun like” output of modern LEDs.

Another important consideration is the cost of maintenance. While both incandescent and LED reading lights require about the same amount of power, using up batteries with about equal speed, incandescent designs have a life expectancy of between 15-25 hours of use. LEDs, while they are only slightly more expensive than incandescent designs, typically provide lifetimes between 5,000-50,000 hours of use. Obviously, LEDs will be significantly less expensive to operate over the long haul if the reading light will be used constantly.

Many modern reading light designs provide the flexibility of being powered by 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, but it can get expensive to replace batteries, as most new alkaline batteries last only for about 20-30 hours of use. A good alternative to consider would be a good recharger and rechargeable batteries.

Lastly, a reading light typically incorporates a sturdy clip which allows the light to be securely attached 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 light. Some designs also offer an optional cradle that allows your light to be affixed to any ferrous surface, such as an appliance, an automotive fender, hood or trunk lid, etc. The possible applications are truly unlimited.