There are three usual ways to light a desk: the classic desk lamp, the monitor light bar and the laptop light bar. All three work; what changes is who they are for. This comparison helps you choose without overspending.
The desk lamp
For: it is cheap, sold everywhere and you can point it wherever you like. It is the best option if you draw, do craft work or need a lot of light on one spot.
Against: it takes up desk space, needs a socket nearby and, if badly placed, its light ends up reflected on the screen. It is not easy to carry in a backpack either.
The monitor light bar
For: it rests on top of the monitor, takes no desk space and the light falls downwards without touching the screen. It is usually 40 to 50 cm long, so it covers a large desk well.
Against: it is designed for monitors, which are thick. On a laptop lid, which is much thinner, most of them do not grip well or are too heavy.
The laptop light bar
For: it is shorter and lighter, with a mount made for a laptop lid. It is USB powered from the computer, takes no desk space and fits in a backpack, so it works the same at home, in the library or in student halls.
Against: it lights the keyboard area and the notes in front of you, not a whole desk. If you work with an external monitor, it is not for you.
Quick summary
| Desk lamp | Monitor bar | Laptop bar | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Takes up desk space | Yes | No | No |
| Glare on the screen | Depends on where you put it | No | No |
| Needs a socket | Almost always | USB | The laptop's USB |
| Easy to carry | No | Not really | Yes |
| Made for | Manual work | Desktop monitor | Laptop |
So, which one?
- If you work with an external monitor, a monitor bar.
- If you draw or do manual work, a good desk lamp.
- If you use only your laptop and move around with it, a laptop bar.
At Cenit we have both bars: the Cenit lamp comes in 33 cm, for 13 to 16-inch laptops, and in 50 cm, for monitors. Both have three light tones and are USB powered.