Monitor light bar: what is it for and how to choose one?
ECLATDESK
In the evening, many desks are lit only by the screen. The keyboard, notes and documents stay in the dark. A monitor light bar solves this with a very simple object: an LED bar that sits on top of the monitor.
What is a light bar for?
- Lighting your work area: the light falls on the keyboard and desk, right in front of you.
- Keeping the desk clear: no base or arm, the whole surface stays free.
- Following the screen: if you move or raise your monitor, the light keeps the same position relative to you.
- Softening the evening atmosphere: you are no longer facing a bright screen in a dark room.
How to choose one
Adjustable colour temperature
It is measured in kelvins (K). Around 2,700 to 3,000 K the light is warm, close to a classic bulb. Around 5,000 to 6,000 K it is cooler and more neutral. An adjustable bar lets you switch between the two depending on the time of day. Read more in our article on warm or cool light at your desk.
Brightness
Adjustable brightness avoids light that is too strong when the room is already lit, or too weak in the evening.
Controls
Touch buttons on the bar, a remote on the desk, or both: a remote saves you reaching up to the screen for every adjustment.
Installation
Check that the clip fits the thickness of your screen, especially for curved monitors. Power is usually via USB.
Our Halo light bar
The Halo light bar adjusts from 2,900 to 6,000 K, with variable brightness and a colour rendering index above 95. Use the touch controls or the rotary remote: press to switch on or off, turn to adjust brightness.
FAQ
Can a light bar replace a desk lamp?
For lighting the keyboard and documents in front of the screen, yes in most cases. For a large desk or precise manual work, an adjustable desk lamp is a good addition.
Does it cause reflections on the screen?
It is designed to light the desk in front of the screen. Adjust its angle so the light falls on your work surface.
See also: all our monitor light bars.
