I have been using monitor light bars for about six months and found them easy to set up and use. They also take up a lot less room on your desk than a traditional lamp and they can provide focused light. The fact that you can adjust the brightness and color of the light gives them even more advantages over popular task lamps. However, light bars aren’t perfect, so you will want to be aware of their limitations before you make a purchase.
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7 Monitor Light Bar Problem Links
- Limited Color Customizations
- Brightness Issues
- Monitor Fit
- Webcam Fit
- Monitor Glare
- Physical Buttons vs. Touch Sensors
- Multiple Monitor Fit
- BONUS: Finding The Right Light Bar
1. Limited Color Customization Options
You will find that less expensive light bars will only come with a few color options. This can become an issue if you are trying to match other lights in your space. I’ve also found that my eyes don’t adjust as well to certain colors. If you are sensitive to colors, limited color options could present a problem. I have been testing the BenQ light bar, which comes with 8 different color options, but it is also at the higher end of the price range.
2. Brightness Issues
Some light bar models simply don’t offer the brightness range you may need. They won’t be able to get dim or bright enough to accommodate your preferences. You also want to consider how easy it is to adjust the brightness and really dial in on the right level.
3. Monitor Fit
Poor monitor fit can be a major annoyance when it comes to light bars. Typically, light bars are easy to install and come with a counterweight that helps hold them in place. While this design works for most monitors, some monitors may be too thin or have a rounded back that prevents you from achieving that perfect fit. With thicker monitors, I find that the clamp fits just a little too tightly than I would like.
4. Webcam Fit
If you use a webcam, it can be difficult to fit both the light bar and the camera on a single monitor. Depending on the size of the monitor and the light bar, you may simply not have enough room for both to fit. Placing the camera off to the side of the screen can make things a little awkward since you won’t be looking directly into the camera.
5. Monitor Glare
Monitor glare reduction is a huge selling point for all the monitors that I have tried. Almost all the advertisements make a point of highlighting the asymmetrical light pattern. Typical task and desk lamps will cause annoying glare on your monitor. The problem is that not all of the light bars delivered on their promises. The BenQ is the only model that was able to eliminate glare. You can tilt the light bar towards you to reduce glare. Otherwise, if reducing glare is a top priority, you will want to invest in a top-tier light bar.
6. Physical Buttons Vs. Touch Sensors
Having to push down on a physical button can cause you to unintentionally move the light bar and your monitor. This can mean that you constantly have to readjust the positioning of the light bar. On the other hand, touch sensors tend to require less pressure and they tend to stay in place much better.
7. Multiple Monitor Fit
If you have a dual monitor setup with both screens oriented in the landscape position, using a single light bar can create an awkward light source. When the monitors are angled inward and toward each other, you can end up with spotty light coverage. In addition, from an aesthetic perspective, installing just one light bar can throw off the visual balance of your desk setup. However, if you have a primary and secondary monitor or even three monitors, this shouldn’t be as much of an issue.
Bonus Tip: Finding the Right Light Bar
So far, I have tested five different light bar models that range in price from $16 to $109. The best option, which also eliminates many of the problems listed above, is the BenQ. However, this is also the most expensive option. It may be beyond the budget of some people, especially if you are investing in your first light bar. If you do decide to splurge on the BenQ, keep in mind that it isn’t a perfect product. You might be better off considering which light bar presents the best value for you.
Rodney Glynn-Morris
Lightbars – did you explore the 2 Logitech video lights one abut $50 rectangulaire – so I looked less like a zombi, ´when on a zoom call -about 6 by 8 inches and the other long about 15 x2 inches and about $100
I wondered if would practical to use either of themone of them them as a huge asset when zooming & then could be use as a desk, keyboard or screen light
R G- M
Jeffery Levy
I want to buy a computer monitor light.
I agree the Ben Q seems to be very good – but it is expensive!
Those listed on Amazon are much cheaper but eg will on take a maximum monitor depth of 1.2cm.
My monitor is nearly 2.5cm thick.
Can anyone suggest another good quality monitor light (preferably with touch sensors) which will give a good monitor fit and is cheaper than the Ben-Q?