Monitor Light Bar vs Desk Lamp for Computer Work
If you work at a computer, you have two main choices for task lighting: a light bar that clips onto your monitor, or a desk lamp. Both work. They solve slightly different problems.
Monitor light bars
A light bar sits on top of your monitor and shines down onto your desk at an angle.
Good:
- Designed to avoid screen glare. Asymmetric optics aim light at the desk, not the screen.
- No desk space used. No base, no arm.
- Even light across the keyboard area.
- Smart features on some models: auto on/off with the monitor, ambient light sensors, motion sensors. The BenQ ScreenBar Halo 2 also adds a backlight behind the screen.
Less good:
- Limited reach. Great for the keyboard and the front of the desk, less so for the far corners or paper to the side.
- Fit matters. Check your monitor's thickness, curve and webcam position.
Desk lamps
A traditional desk lamp, or a wide architect lamp, stands on or clamps to the desk.
Good:
- More coverage and flexibility. Aim it at paper, a drawing tablet or a second workspace.
- Wide models light big desks. The Honeywell HJ1BK has a 31.49-inch dual-section head.
Less good:
- Takes desk space, unless it clamps on.
- Can glare off the screen if it's positioned in front of or behind the monitor. Put it to the side and aim it down.
Which should you choose?
- Mostly typing at a screen: a monitor light bar.
- You work with paper, sketch or have a very wide desk: a desk lamp, or both.
- You work late in a dim room: a light bar with a backlight to soften the contrast behind the screen.
- Two monitors: one light bar on the main screen, or a wide architect lamp.
Tips for either
- Keep some general room light on; a single bright spot in a dark room is tiring.
- Use warmer light in the evening and cooler light during the day. See our color temperature guide.
For five lights compared for computer work, see our desk lamp for computer work comparison.