Illuminating Your Way: Unveiling the Ultimate Monitor Light Bar of 2023
Enhance your computer workspace with the top monitor light bars of 2023 Discover the perfect balance of brightness and comfort with our selection, including the versatile BenQ ScreenBar, budget-friendly Quntis Light Bar, compact HIOUME Light Bar, gaming-focused Xiaomi Mi Light Bar, and the innovative BenQ ScreenBar Halo with webcam mount Get rid of eye strain, choose between a light bar or backlight, and understand the impact of blue light
If you find yourself staring at your screen for hours each day,
Best Monitor Light Bar Overall $109 at Amazon
Best Budget Monitor Light Bar $40 at Amazon
Best Compact Monitor Light Bar $25 at Amazon
Best Monitor Light Bar for Gaming $70 at Amazon
Best Monitor Light Bar with Webcam Mount $179 at Amazon
What to Look for in a Monitor Light Bar
When considering monitor light bars, it can be challenging to find the perfect one among the numerous options available. Due to its compact nature, the criteria for selecting a suitable monitor light bar are relatively concise. Avoid those that offer only a single brightness level or color temperature setting, as there are plenty of other alternatives that provide customization options with three to fifteen distinct settings.
A monitor light bar equipped with a wireless remote or an auto-dimming function offers convenient adjustments without the need for manual intervention. These features are particularly advantageous for gamers, but anyone who spends extended periods in front of their monitor can benefit from the convenience of a wireless remote or auto-dimming capability.
Accurate measurement is crucial when selecting a monitor light bar. It is important to ensure that the chosen light bar is the appropriate size for the monitor to avoid potential screen glare. For those with curved monitors, it is recommended to choose a light bar that explicitly mentions compatibility with curved monitors or one that is specifically designed for such monitors.
Mounting a light bar on your monitor should be a straightforward task, but not all monitors are created equal. In fact, there are instances where even the most highly regarded monitor light bars can present challenges when it comes to mounting them on certain monitors. To mitigate any potential issues, it is wise to consult reviews that include images or personal accounts of successfully mounting the light bar on monitors that closely resemble yours. Additionally, it is crucial to ascertain the length of the connecting cable to ensure ample space between a USB port and the top of your monitor.
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Best Monitor Light Bar Overall: BenQ ScreenBar
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ 15 adjustable brightness levels | ✗ Mixed results on compatibility with curved monitors |
✓ 8 adjustable temperature levels | ✗ Pricey compared to similar light bars |
✓ Auto-dimming feature | |
✓ Durable, premium build quality |
The BenQ ScreenBar is considered by most to be the top choice when it comes to monitor light bars. Although it may be a bit more expensive than other options, the premium price is worth it for a durable light bar with added features.
Featuring 15 adjustable brightness levels and eight different color temperatures ranging from 2700K (warm white) to 8500K (cool white), you have full control over the lighting. You can manually adjust the brightness or color temperature using the controls on the light bar, or take advantage of the built-in auto-dimming feature that automatically adjusts the levels throughout the day based on the fluctuating outside light.
The ScreenBar's auto-dimming feature adjusts the brightness based on the surrounding light using a built-in ambient light sensor. It will automatically adjust to 500 lux, which is the recommended office lighting standard. The center of the light bar reaches a maximum brightness of 900 lux. With BenQ's patented asymmetrical optical design, there is no screen glare, regardless of the chosen brightness level.
The ScreenBar can be conveniently powered by any USB outlet with an output of 5V/1A or higher. It easily clamps onto the monitor without the need for any tools. Visit the BenQ website to check the compatibility requirements for the ScreenBar with your monitor. It should work with most flat or curved monitors that have a thickness ranging from 0.4 to 1.2 inches. However, some Amazon users have reported compatibility issues with curved monitors.
$109 at Amazon See at BenQ
Best Budget Monitor Light Bar: Quntis Light Bar
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Adjustable color temperature (3000K - 6500K) | ✗ Not a great pick for ultra-wide or curved monitors |
✓ Adjustable brightness levels | ✗ Some users note issues with the mount clip |
✓ Auto-dimming feature |
The Quntis Light Bar is a cost-effective alternative to the BenQ ScreenBar, offering similar features. With its asymmetrical optimal design, it effectively eliminates screen glare. Additionally, it has an auto-dimming capability and can be effortlessly mounted to your monitor using a weighted clip that requires no tools.
Equipped with 78 LEDs, the Quntis Light Bar includes a built-in ambient light sensor that automatically adjusts the LED brightness according to your surrounding light conditions. Its auto-dimming feature ensures a consistent brightness level of approximately 700 lux, meeting the United States National Office Lighting Standard's definition of ideal work lighting.
You have the option to manually adjust the brightness and color temperature if you're not satisfied with the auto-dimming feature. Choose from four brightness levels, increasing in 25% increments up to 100%, and select from four color temperature options ranging from warm white (3000K) to cool white (6500K). Regardless of the combination you choose, the Quntis light bar effectively reduces blue light and alleviates eye discomfort throughout the day.
To use this light bar, simply connect it to any USB 5V/1A port, whether it's on your monitor, computer, or a separate power bank. For monitors with a thickness between 0.3 and 1.4 inches, the Quntis Light Bar will work seamlessly.
However, this light bar is not compatible with laptops or curved monitors. Quntis highly recommends using this light bar for monitors ranging from 15 to 22 inches in size. Certain users on Amazon have reported issues with the mount clip not functioning properly on monitors with thinner bezels, while others have mentioned that it does not work efficiently with monitors that have a curved back.
Quntis Light Bar - The Perfect Budget-Friendly Monitor Light Bar $40 $43 Save $3 Enjoy the benefits of the Quntis Light Bar, an affordable option that provides top-tier features. This includes auto-dimming, a range of brightness and color temperature adjustments, and a screen glare-free experience.
Grab yours for just $40 on Amazon. Also available at Quntis and Walmart. See now!
Best Compact Monitor Light Bar: HIOUME Light Bar
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ 10 adjustable brightness levels | ✗ No auto-dimming feature |
✓ 3 color temperature settings | ✗ Included wires aren’t the best |
✓ Great for smaller monitors | |
✓ Affordable option |
The HIOUME Light Bar is an ideal choice for those in need of a compact light bar that can seamlessly attach to a slim and smaller-sized monitor. With a length of 15.75 inches, it is slightly shorter than most alternative options out there. Moreover, HIOUME also offers a miniature light bar specifically designed for laptops.
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Featuring an asymmetrical optical design, this light does not produce screen glare. Additionally, it offers three color temperature options to choose from - warm light (2800K), cool light (6500K), or a middle ground (4000K). Moreover, you have the flexibility to adjust the brightness in 10% increments, ranging from 10% to 100%.
This light bar is equipped with a total of 84 LEDs, comprising of 42 Cool White LEDs and 42 Warm Color LEDs. HIOUME estimates that the LED lifetime exceeds 100,000 hours. At its peak brightness, the light bar can reach a maximum of 500 lux in the center.
Installation of HIOUME's monitor light bar is tool-free thanks to its clamp design. However, it is important to measure your monitor to ensure compatibility. The light bar is suitable for flat monitors with a thickness ranging from 0.4 to 1.2 inches at the top, but it is not suitable for curved monitors.
To activate the light bar, simply plug it into a 5V USB port on your computer, monitor, USB charger, or power bank. Once connected, manual controls on the top of the light bar allow for adjustments in brightness and color temperature.
$25 at Amazon
Best Monitor Light Bar for Gaming: Xiaomi Mi Light Bar
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Convenient wireless remote included | ✗ No controls on the light bar |
✓ Adjustable brightness and color temperature | |
✓ Magnetic rotating base is sturdy and easy to use | |
✓ Solid build quality |
The Xiaomi Mi Light Bar is the perfect option for gamers as it includes a convenient remote control and avoids the bothersome auto-dimming feature that can interrupt gameplay. The wireless remote operates on a 2.4GHz connection and allows you to adjust brightness and color temperature preferences through pressing, rotating, or both.
With the option to experiment with various brightness and color temperature settings, you'll enjoy a near-instant response from the remote control. This Xiaomi light bar is designed asymmetrically, eliminating any screen glare or reflection commonly seen with other light bars. Additionally, its adjustable feature allows for up to 25 degrees of adjustment to prevent glare on most monitors, accommodating the varying designs of monitors available.
The Xiaomi Light Bar is powered by any USB port, making it convenient to use right away. It can be easily attached to your monitor using clamp installation and the angle can be adjusted effortlessly with its magnetic base. As long as the top of your monitor is between 0.4 and 1.25 inches thick, you can enjoy the flexibility of adjusting the angle. If your monitor is less than 0.4 inches thick, the angle can still be adjusted by providing support for the light bar. Xiaomi assures that this light bar is suitable for curved screens with or without a bezel, as long as they meet the specified thickness requirements. With its 40-degree adjustable axis, you can easily position the light bar to prevent any screen glare.
$70 at Amazon See at Xiaomi See at Walmart
Best Monitor Light Bar with Webcam Mount: BenQ ScreenBar Halo
Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
✓ Adjustable color temperature and brightness | ✗ Super pricey investment |
✓ 3 eye-care modes to choose from | ✗ No controls on the light bar |
✓ Convenient wireless remote included | |
✓ Integrated back light | |
✓ Works for almost all monitors, even curved |
You can position your webcam next to a monitor light bar or try attaching it on top with tape or achieving a great balance. However, if you prefer a light bar that has a designated spot for your webcam, consider the BenQ ScreenBar Halo with its Webcam Accessory. The ScreenBar Halo features a specific area on top where the Webcam Accessory can be placed, and it is compatible with a wide range of webcams, except for the BenQ IdeaCam.
Not only is the ScreenBar Halo a great choice for individuals looking to utilize a light bar and a webcam, but it also offers several extra features that elevate it to a fantastic premium option. It includes some of the key attributes of the original ScreenBar, such as auto-dimming up to 500 lux, an asymmetrical optical design to prevent glare, easy installation, and the ability to adjust brightness and color temperature. Additionally, the ScreenBar Halo boasts an integrated backlight and a convenient wireless controller, features that are unique to this particular model.
You have the option to adjust the brightness and color temperature levels for both the back light and front light. Additionally, you can switch between three eye care modes that exclusively utilize the front light, back light, or both. Opting for just the front light is recommended for daytime work, while using only the back light can provide a more immersive gaming experience during nighttime.
To personalize the brightness and color temperature settings, utilize the smart wireless controller that comes with the product. With the three eye care modes, you can experiment with over 100 unique combinations of brightness and color temperature.
The BenQ ScreenBar Halo can be easily installed using the provided USB cable and BenQ’s patented clip design. In addition, it offers compatibility with a wider range of monitors compared to the original ScreenBar. The ScreenBar Halo can be used with flat monitors that have a thickness between 0.3 and 2.4 inches, as well as curved monitors over 1000R with a thickness between 0.63 and 1.5 inches. To ensure compatibility with this light bar, your monitor’s bezel width should be equal to or greater than 0.25 inches.
Discover the remarkable BenQ ScreenBar Halo, an exceptional monitor light bar equipped with a webcam mount. Offering added protection for your eyes with its integrated backlight, this product is an excellent value for money. With the included remote and various options for brightness and color temperature, it ensures a convenient and customizable lighting experience.
Available for purchase on Amazon for $179 or directly from the BenQ website.
FAQ
Do monitor light bars help with eye strain?
Yes! It may seem counterintuitive, but by incorporating a light bar, you can reduce the strain on your eyes caused by constantly adapting to the varying brightness of your screen due to changes in surrounding light.
Should I use a monitor light bar or a monitor backlight?
What is blue light?
Both light bars and backlights (or bias lighting) serve the purpose of minimizing eye strain by offering a steady and sufficient amount of illumination around your screen. However, light bars have the added advantage of illuminating your desk in addition to your screen.
Blue light is simply light with a blue hue that produces a higher amount of energy than other colors, and believe it or not, blue light is not as dangerous as people make it out to be.
