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The Best Reading Light

By Gabriella DePinho

Gabriella DePinho is a writer on the discovery team. She has found cheap(ish) things for medicine cabinets, movie nights, and a good night’s sleep.

If you share a bed with a light sleeper, a reading light can mean the difference between enjoying an old-fashioned paper book and succumbing to the distraction of your phone or other digital device.

We set out to find lights bright enough to read by and easy to use with a variety of books.

After testing 10 lights, we recommend the Glocusent Bookmark Style Reading Light and the Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light for sneaking in a few chapters before bed.

Everything we recommend

Glocusent Bookmark Style Reading Light

The best overall reading light.

This chic and compact device offers the most light settings of all our picks, and its power indicator makes it easy to know when to charge it.

Buying Options

Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light

The best wearable reading light.

This wearable device offers bright light, and its adjustable arms angled the light at the page just how we wanted.

Vekkia Dual Heads Rechargeable Book Light

The best reading light for hardcover books.

The lights are bright, and the clip is sturdy and grippy, but the bulky base makes it best for hardcover books. It may tear the cover of paperbacks.

Black Diamond Wiz Headlamp

The best headlamp for reading.

If you want a multitasking light for walks, reading, and even camping, we recommend this bright, comfortable kid’s headlamp, regardless of your age.

The Glocusent Bookmark Style Reading Light stood out for its array of lighting settings and its lightweight design. It’s easy to twist and adjust the small light so it covers the full page and to adjust the brightness and temperature of the lighting (although we found the buttons almost too sensitive). The light was easy to clip onto the back or front cover of a book without weighing the covers down.

The Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light never felt heavy or uncomfortable on our necks and was convenient to use when in bed or traveling. The neck light offers fewer brightness and temperature settings than the Glocusent Bookmark Style Reading Light , but we were still pleased with the variety the device offered. It’s a good option for readers who dislike adjusting a traditional clip-on reading light.

For readers who stick to hardcover books, the Vekkia Dual Heads Rechargeable Book Light stood out from the others in our tests. Two lights on bendable necks illuminate both pages of an open book, and you can adjust the brightness level. The clip was sturdy and grippy, which worked well on hardbacks, but it was too heavy for paperbacks—it could tear the cover.

If you want a reading light with a variety of use cases, we liked the Black Diamond Wiz Headlamp , our pick for kids in our headlamp guide . This headlamp surprised us: It fit adults while remaining comfortable and providing long-lasting light. This pick isn’t for everyone, but it’s a great option for those interested in having a reading light that’s meant to do more.

The research

Why you should trust us, best overall: glocusent bookmark style reading light, best wearable reading light: glocusent led neck reading light, best for hardcover books: vekkia dual heads rechargeable book light, a great headlamp for reading: black diamond wiz headlamp, how we picked and tested, the competition.

I’ve used many book lights over the years. For this review I spent multiple hours reading in the dark with the 10 models we tested. I also had Wirecutter staffers try out a few of our options while traveling or sharing a sleeping space.

I also spoke with an ophthalmologist to understand how much light people need to read for optimal eye health.

For about $15, the Glocusent Bookmark Style Reading Light offered all of the features we wanted, plus features we didn’t even know we should want. This light seems to be growing in popularity in online book-lover communities and on #BookTok —and it lives up to the hype.

It has customizable light settings. This reading light offers five brightness levels as well as three light temperatures to choose from, allowing you the greatest level of light customization of all our picks. When used on books of varying sizes, this device was able to cast enough light so we could read both pages clearly. We were also able to twist the light to adjust the angle as needed. Our testers found that the device never interfered with turning the pages, which was not true of all the lights we tested.

It has a compact design . This model is lightweight and has a slim clip, which made it a good option for both hardcover and paperback books, unlike bulkier options we tested. Unlike many of the lights we tried, you can clip the light to the front or back cover and still have a pleasant reading experience. Its slim design made it the easiest of all the lights we tested to store at home and pack away for travel.

It’s easy to charge and has a long-lasting battery . The USB-A connector makes for easy portable charging and is covered by a piece of plastic that was easy to take off and put back on. One of the other lights we tested had a similar charging mechanism, but the battery life of the Glocusent Bookmark Style Reading Light lasted significantly longer.

Unlike any of the other lights we tested, this reading light has a power indicator. All four of the lights shine green when fully charged. When we left it on full brightness for 12 hours, the power indicator dropped to two lights, which means we used about half the battery life. (This was the only light that we were able to approximate the remaining battery power of during our testing.)

Flaws but not dealbreakers

The buttons are relatively sensitive, so some testers said they accidentally changed their light settings when adjusting the clip’s placement on the book. None of our testers had any issues with it turning on in a backpack or handbag during our testing.

If you’re looking for a wearable option, the Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light is the best available.

It’s wearable and multifunctional. The device is designed to sit around your neck and illuminate whatever is in front of you. It never felt heavy or uncomfortable during our tests. Because this light is wearable, it works well regardless of whether you’re reading hardcovers or paperbacks. It can also easily be used as task lighting, such as for knitting or crocheting. Some of our testers even set the light on a shelf to illuminate a hotel bathroom when the overhead lights went out.

It’s customizable and has a long battery life . The light offers three brightness levels and three light temperatures, and both bulbs at the end of the device can be turned on together or one at a time. We particularly loved this light’s long battery life—it lasted on full brightness for 12 hours straight during our testing. Senior staff writer Elissa Sanci has been using her Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light since February and took it on six flights and hotel stays throughout the country before having to charge it again.

We’ve seen very similar neck lights under many other brand names on Amazon; a representative of Glocusent confirmed that it produces this light as a white-label model in addition to its own branded version. To ensure that you get our specific recommended model, however, buy it directly from Glocusent or its Amazon shop.

Testers with fuller chests found that the light could cast a shadow on their books, depending on how the arms were angled. Adjusting the way they were sitting or how they angled the lights got rid of the shadow.

The arms can be bent inwards to fold the light for packing purposes, but the light can still be a little bulky in a bag compared with others we tested. We’ve found that the buttons are sensitive and the light has accidentally turned on while toted in a backpack.

If you’re committed to hardcover books (or an e-reader that isn’t backlit), the Vekkia Dual Heads Rechargeable Book Light is the best light for you.

It has a bendable neck with two light settings . The device easily illuminates two pages, thanks to the two lights on bendable goosenecks. We bent each over both pages, and the lights never interfered with turning the page. You can turn each light on separately, and both offer two brightness levels, so you can adjust the lighting—but unlike our top picks, you cannot adjust the light temperature.

It has a sturdy clip . The clip grips a book cover well and stays in place throughout use. The clip is bulky, which does affect how the pages lay, but it was less disruptive than several other lights’ clips. We don’t recommend this light for paperback use, as the clip is too heavy and can tear the cover, but it works for hardcover books.

If the Vekkia Dual Heads Rechargeable Book Light is out of stock, try this similar Vekkia model , which also worked well for hardcover books. The light was bright enough to cover both pages, but we prefer the dual-headed option for more light customization if it’s available.

If you want a light to use beyond reading, we recommend the Black Diamond Wiz Headlamp from our headlamps guide .

The light is bright enough. In our testing, this headlamp provided bright enough light to read comfortably in the dark. It was brighter than the rest of the reading lights we tested, but it wasn’t too strong or harsh, like our other headlamp picks. The white-light setting works best for solo reading; if you’re reading a bedtime story to a kid you’re looking to impress, the multicolor lighting option can be a nice added touch.

It’s good for all ages. Although this is a kids headlamp, our adult testers were able to adjust the straps to comfortably fit their heads. The other headlamps we love were far too bright for indoor use.

After consulting with book lovers on staff, including Wirecutter’s staff book club of over 70 members, we chose which lights to test based on the following criteria:

• Adjustable brightness: Different situations call for different types of lighting. We looked for lights that offered at least two brightness levels and a variety of light temperatures for a more customizable experience.
• Convenient for travel: Reading lights are useful beyond just reading in bed, so we prioritized lights that fold or take up minimal space and can easily fit into a travel bag.
• Good for paperback or hardcover: We wanted to find options that work well for reading hardcover and paperback books of all shapes and sizes. The lights needed to allow for easily turning pages, illuminate the entire page, and not tear or damage book covers.
• Long-lasting light: We looked for lights that would last 12 hours straight without dying or noticeably dimming.
• Easy to use: We wanted to find models that felt intuitive to use and weren’t so complicated that we needed to read (and reread) the instructions.

We called in 10 models to test that were recommended by staffers, rated highly on Amazon and other bookstore sites, or recommended on Reddit, TikTok, and other social media sites. We used them over the course of a few weeks to get a feel for daily use and convenience.

The MightyBright Recharge Light is chic and aesthetically pleasing, but its dimming feature wasn’t intuitive to our testers, and the gooseneck got floppier with more use. At about $32, it was the most expensive light we tested, and the light quality wasn’t as good as cheaper lights we tried.

The Vekkia Bookmark Book Light’s unique design intrigued us, but the neck of the light was too short, so it got in the way of turning the page. You have to remove the bookmark part of the light from the clip base to charge it, and we found it challenging to get it back into place to use again.

The popularity of the Dewenwils USB Rechargeable Book Light on TikTok and its $10 price made us try it, but the light felt cheap and bulky, and it didn’t offer the same brightness and warmth options that the similarly designed Glocusent Bookmark Style Reading Light did. The light went out during the fourth hour of our 12-hour test; it lasted the shortest amount of time out of all the models we tested.

The Juesi Flat Book Light is also popular on TikTok (video) for being aesthetically pleasing, and we were surprisingly pleased with how bright it was and how long the light lasted. However, the light was not dimmable, it required batteries, it only worked on books of a certain size, and we had to move the light when turning each page.

The Vitchelo V800 , our budget-pick headlamp , is far too bright for indoor use. It’s potentially good for outdoor, nighttime reading, but we did not test that particular use case.

This article was edited by Alexander Aciman, Catherine Kast, and Christine Cyr Clisset.

Meet your guide

Gabriella DePinho

Gabriella DePinho is an updates writer at Wirecutter. Previously, she worked at NBC News writing about deals and product launches. She loves working in product recommendation but personally hates shopping—and she knows that doesn’t make sense.

Further reading

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Whether you’re looking to illuminate a backyard or balcony, or a picnic table or tent, we have recommendations for 8 delightful and weather-safe options.

The Easy-to-Use Philips Hue Smart Bulb Makes Lighting a Room Fun

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Read Anywhere This Summer

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'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?

ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing.

When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.

ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form .

The best book lights you can buy

Book lights (or reading lights) are a portable and convenient solution for reading in low-light situations. Whether you are traveling, reading in bed, or sharing a space, book lights help you immerse yourself in the story, or in some cases your creative work, without bothering anyone around you. 

The small, lightweight, attachable lights can be worn around your neck, head, or in most cases attached to a book or e-reader. While all do the basic feature of providing illumination unto your page, book lights often vary in size, weight, and brightness levels, among other features.  

Also:   The best e-readers aren't all Kindle

Based on portability, brightness level, and design, ZDNET experts rounded up the best book lights you can buy with the  Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light  as our top pick. Read on for more details, the pros and cons, along with other great options worth considering. 

The best book lights of 2024

Glocusent led neck reading light, best book light overall.

• Different color temperature options
• Adjustable arms
• Long battery life
• Comfortable fit
• Narrow beam angle
• Very bright even on the lowest setting

Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light features: Color options:  7 | Color temperatures: 3 | Lumens : 40 |  Brightness levels: 6 

The Glucusent LED Neck Reading Light is our best overall pick due to its adjustable ergonomic and hands-free design, along with its low price point. It also happens to be the #1 best-selling product in the "book lights" category on Amazon.

This reading light comes in three different colors (gray, blue, and pink), three color temperatures (yellow, warm white, and cool white), and six brightness levels. Its narrow beam angle design allows it to shine bright on the book you're reading while being dim enough that it won't disturb your partner in bed. In addition, it can work up to 80 hours on one charge and gives off 40 lumens of light.

Also: The best Kindles you can buy

Dewenwils USB Rechargeable Book Light

Best compact book light.

• Super portable design
• Charge it anywhere
• Warm lighting
• Built-in USB
• Click can be loud
• Only two brightness levels

Dewenwils USB Rechargeable Book Light features:   Color options: 6 | Lumens: 20 | Brightness levels: 2 

If you're just looking for a simple, portable reading light, the Dewenwils USB Rechargeable Book Light is a great option. With six different colors (blue, green, black, pink, white, and yellow), it gives off 20 lumens with 3000k of warm light temperature. Unfortunately, however, there are only two brightness levels.

Its 360-degree flexible holder lets you focus the light exactly where you want it. This light also has a built-in USB charger like the Ytuomzi LED Reading Lamp for easy charging anywhere.

Vekkia Amber Rechargeable Book Light

Best book light for reading before bed.

• Amber glow doesn't block melatonin production
• Blocks blue light
• Four different color options
• Clip is slightly too large
• Metal can tear pages

Vekkia Amber Rechargeable Book Light features: Color options: 4 | Lumens: 20 |  Brightness levels: 3 | Weight: 2.15 ounces

The Vekkia Amber Rechargeable Book Light gives off a soft, amber glow that blocks 99.95% of the blue light spectrum so that your melatonin production is not interrupted when you use a light to read.

It comes in black, blue, red, and white with a 360-degree gooseneck design. Its three different brightness levels give off a maximum of 60 lumens while ensuring the light's color temperature does not affect your eyes at night.

Ytuomzi LED Reading Lamp

Best book light for e-readers.

• Durable clip
• Easy charging
• Fast charging
• Flexible arm
• Not a long battery life
• Limited brightness

Ytuomzi LED Reading Lamp features:   Brightness levels: 4 | Lumens:  23 | Brightness Levels: 4 |  Battery: Up to 4 hours

If you use an older e-reader that does not have a backlight built-in, you'll need a reading light for nighttime reading. You can clip it to the back of your e-reader or a regular hardcover book.

Also: The best tablets for reading  

This reading light has four brightness levels, the highest being 23 lumens. It can last four hours on a full charge, and its charging port is built right in, so there's no need for a cord to charge your reading light.  

Flexilight Reading Light

Best versatile book light.

• Plenty of fun displays
• Doubles in use as a bookmark
• Cannot adjust brightness
• Light could be a warmer shade

Flexilight Reading Light features: Color options: 27 | Lumens: 8 | Weight: .8 ounces

This reading light also doubles as a placeholder for where you left off in your book. With 27 colors and designs to choose from, it's a stylish bookmark/book-light option. There are even styles geared towards kids.

It's lightweight and thin enough to use as a bookmark, so you can always have it with you and your book of choice. It gives off 8 lumens of light; however, there is only one brightness level, so it cannot be adjusted. Also, keep in mind you'll have to replace the batteries down the line since it is battery-powered.

What is the best book light?

The Glucusent LED Neck Reading Light is our top pick for the best book light because of its ergonomic design and six different brightness levels. However, if you're looking to shine a light on your e-reader, the Ytuomzi LED Reading Lamp is a great pick. And, if you're concerned about bright light interrupting your sleep cycle, the Vekki Amber Rechargeable Book Light's soft amber glow will be best for you.

Since, ultimately, the best book light depends on your needs, we've narrowed down other factors like price, lumens, and brightness levels below so you can choose the reading light that's best for you. 

 *Lowest price at the time of writing. Please note that prices may vary based on retailer and available promotions, sales, or discounts.

Which book light is right for you?

While many of these book lights are great options, it ultimately comes down to how bright of a light you want, what size you prefer, and what price you're willing to spend.

How did we choose these book lights?

We selected these book lights and reading lights based on the number of positive reviews on each product and reading customers' experiences with the products. 

Ultimately we compared the following factors when selecting our top picks: 

• Construction: From metal to plastic, book lights are made of many different materials. Consider durability and whether each book light will work with the type of books you read. 
• Brightness levels: Some book lights allow you to control the brightness levels of your book light. This means that you can easily adjust lighting based on the time of day and your location. While some reading lights do not allow you to make adjustments at all, we found that our top pick for the best book light, the Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light, has the most brightness levels, with six total. 
• Price: Book lights are generally affordable, but the cost can vary based on things like features and construction. The best book lights range in cost from $9 to $22, making it easy to purchase your new book light for less than $25.

How do book lights work?

Book lights allow you to read in the dark. Many models come with a clip you slide onto your book. 

From there, you use the bendable arm to pool the light over the reading surface at an angle that works for you. 

What is the difference between a book light and a reading light?

In this guide, we chose both book lights and reading lights. The names are used interchangeably, for a device that's meant to illuminate a small area so that you can get a better, closer look. 

While a book light tends to be a type of light specifically used for reading a book or novel, a reading light can be used for not only reading but also writing, sketching, working on a computer, or crafting. But, again, both lights are considered the same thing. 

What batteries do book lights use?

It's common for book lights to draw their power from Lithium or AAA batteries. If your book light contains rechargeable batteries, you'll have 6 to 10 hours of use between charges. 

Are there alternative book lights to consider?

We chose a variety of book lights based on pricing, functionality, and more. If these options don't work, here are a few more reading lights to consider: 

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The Best Book Lights for Getting Through Your To-Read List When It’s Dark Out

Among the many benefits of reading , curling up with a book is a great way to relax before you go to sleep. But, unfortunately, an e-book isn’t always the best choice at bedtime, because the blue light  from your phone or tablet can make it  harder to fall asleep . If you opt for the more sleep-friendly option of a physical book but want to keep your room dark to help you wind down at night, a book light is the perfect solution. Plus, if you share your bed with your partner, the narrow beam of light produced by a book light won’t disturb their sleep. (Look at you, so considerate!) Read on for a handful of the best book lights around.

• 01 Types of book lights
• 02 Shop the best book lights
• 03 How to choose

The best book lights, at a glance:

• Best overall: Vekkia, Amber Bookmark Book Light , $16
• Best travel: BIGMONAT, Rechargeable Book Light , $9
• Best multi-use : Gifts for Readers & Writers, Flexilight Book Light , $10
• Best adjustable: VAVOFO Rechargeable Reading Light , $10
• Best for blocking blue light: Amber Light +, Night Reading Light , $15
• Best for large books: Energizer, Clip On Book Light , $13
• Best budget: LIGHT IT!, MultiFlex LED Reading Light , $9
• Best small light: WITHit, Clip On Book Light , $13
• Best brightness modes: Vekkia, 14 LED Rechargeable Book Light , $28
• Best neck light for reading:   Glocusent, LED Neck Reading Light , $30
• Best neck light runner-up : Vekkia, Rechargeable Neck Reading Light , $27
• Best multi-purpose neck light: Betensh, LED Neck Reading Light , $20

Types of book lights

You have two main options for book lights: One type clips to your book, while the other hangs around your neck (comfortably!). Beyond using it for bedtime reading , you can rely a book light to provide a little extra light when you’re knitting or cross-stitching, crafting, working on your car, or using a laptop that doesn’t have a lighted keyboard. If you have kids, you’ll help them  ease into sleep  by reading to them with a book light instead of a bright lamp or ceiling light.

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Below, we’ve recommended the best book lights for curling up with a good read. And pssst:  a book light also makes a great gift for the book lover in your life!

Shop 12 of the best book lights

Blue light has been found to suppress melatonin, a hormone that your body releases at night and helps regulate your sleep/wake cycle. This clip-on book light eliminates 99.95 percent of blue light and offers three color temperatures: amber, natural, and white. It has a dimming function, too. It’s also thin enough to use as a bookmark when folded flat—a pretty handy feature—and you can charge it with a laptop USB port, USB outlet, phone power bank, or car charger. A full charge gives you 20 hours of reading time.

Battery type: USB rechargeable

Run time: 20 hours on full charge

• Three different color temperatures (amber, natural, white) and adjustable brightness
• Flexible neck
• Built-in USB
• Lowest setting is still rather bright

This compact, clip-on book light (I’d even call it cute) sort of looks like a USB flash drive—and in fact, sliding up the top reveals a USB connector that lets you charge the book light using a phone power bank, car charger, USB port on your laptop, or USB outlet (no cable necessary!). The light has three temperature modes (warm 3000K, natural 5000K, and cool 8000K) and allows you to adjust the brightness between 10 and 100 percent. Besides this pretty shade of purple, this book light is available in a variety of other options like bright blue, lime green, and white.

Runtime: 7 hours on full charge

• Built-in USB connector
• Three temperatures and adjustable brightness
• Body can be rotated 360 degrees
• Metal clip isn’t that strong

Looking for something a bit more fun than the average black or white book light? This one comes in over 15 colors and patterns (!), from solid designs to cute animal prints. Some of the patterns were probably designed for kids—an adorable penguin, the poop emoji, and so on—but hey, there’s nothing wrong with indulging your inner child. Best of all, this book light is very flexible and is thin enough to use as a bookmark. (Note: It only has one brightness setting.)

Battery type: CR2016 lithium batteries (two included)

• Flexible material helps angle the light
• Lightweight and thin to double as a bookmark
• Lots of fun color options
• Only one brightness setting
• Requires batteries

With seven LED lights, nine color temperatures, and three brightness settings, this light has plenty of options to make sure your nighttime reading is as comfortable as possible. It has up to a 32 hour battery life and a flexible neck, and comes in a variety of different colors. Plus, the battery indicator will help you keep tabs on your light’s life—that way you’re not left in the dark!

Runtime: 32 hours on full charge

• Nine color temperatures and three brightness settings
• Can be used as a clip-on or freestanding
• Has a battery display
• A little heavy to clip on thin paperbacks

You don’t have to worry about this clip-on book light disrupting your sleep cycle like your phone or tablet can, because it eliminates 99.5 percent of blue light. Four hours of charging with the included micro USB charging cable will give you 30 hours of reading time, and you can adjust the brightness to 25, 50, or 100 percent—equal to 20, 40, and 80 lumens. (A standard 60-watt bulb produces 800 lumens.) At 2.5 ounces, it’s very light and perfect for travel.

Runtime: 30 hours on 4-hour charge

• Removes 99.95 percent of blue light
• Three brightness settings
• Only one color light option (amber may not suit all readers)

So, Energizer makes book lights—who knew? This one can either clip onto your book or stand by itself, and gives off a wide beam of light to accommodate larger books. The three dimmable light modes go from 10 to 100 lumens, (That’s using the highest brightness setting; lower settings will give you more time.) The book light has a shatterproof lens and comes with a USB charging cable.

Battery type: USB rechargeable ( battery-powered option also available)

Runtime: 5.5 hours on a full charge

• Wide beam suits larger books
• Can be used as a clip-on or freestanding light
• Three color temperature modes and adjustable brightness
• Slightly heavier clip light (3.2 oz)

If you do a lot of nighttime reading, this budget-friendly pick is probably a great clip-on book light for you. It runs on three AAA batteries (not included), so the battery compartment is bulkier than that of most book lights, but there’s something to be said for the convenience of common battery types. Plus, the light only uses one LED, so a battery set will last you a long time, even with regular use. This bright book light can clip onto your book—or many other things—or stand by itself. It is heavier though (again, batteries!) so it’s probably a better fit for hardcover books.

Battery type: AAA batteries

• Budget-friendly price
• Requires three AAA batteries (not included)
• No brightness or temperature settings

These cute little book lights weigh in at 2.4 ounces and bend to be perfectly portable for travel. It doesn’t have as many bells and whistles as other lights on this list, as there’s only one brightness setting. But, with a variety of patterns to choose from, this is is a great compact option for paperback books. While this model is designed to run on non-rechargeable batteries (two are included with your purchase), the brand also sells a similar rechargeable model for just a couple dollars more.

Battery type: CR2032 lithium batteries (2 included)

• Compact and portable
• Available in several fun designs
• Small enough for lighter paperbacks

This lightweight lamp features nine brightness modes—in warm, white, bright, soft tones—to protect your eyes at night. It has a clip that fits on books of all sizes and the whale-tail design of the light heads means you can easily customize the beams. Best of all, while this light covers a lot of ground, it weighs only 2.3 ounces!

Runtime: 80 hours (on low light) with full charge

• Nine levels of brightness
• Adjustable beams
• Fits on books and Kindles
• Some people say the control switch is inconveniently placed

A neck reading light is a great choice if you want to keep your books clip-free and pristine. They’re less common than clip-on book lights (and they look a bit like medical devices, TBH), but they’re versatile and easily portable. This one is the #1 bestseller in the Book Lights category at Amazon—it has an ergonomic design with three light settings (yellow, warm white, and cool white) and three brightness levels. Plus, each side can be adjusted independently. When charged fully with the included USB-C cable, it can last from six to 80 hours (!), depending on the brightness level you choose. It’s also available a variety of colors, like purple, blue, and pink.

Runtime: Up to 80 hours on full charge

• Ergonomic design  
• Three temperature color modes and three brightness settings
• Battery up to 80 hours
• Some folks say the lowest setting is still bright

With four flicker-free LED lights and three brightness settings, this neck light can be used for reading, puzzling, and other activities that need just a little extra brightness. It has flexible arms, each with its own switch, to give you options to vary your light, an included micro-USB cable, and it has up to 40 hours of battery life.

Runtime: Up to 40 hours on full charge

• Ergonomic design
• Each light can be used independently
• Shorter battery life than the pick above

Neck lights can be used for much more than reading! This pick features spotlight and wide-beam modes that can be helpful for nighttime dog walks or camping trips. Plus, the design is flexible, so when you are reading in bed, you can easily direct the light away from your partner. This neck light has four brightness settings and lasts for 60 hours on a full charge from the included micro USB charging cable.

Runtime: 60 hours on full charge

• Spotlight and wide-beam mode for outdoor use
• Adjustable arms for targeted light
• Less dim options for reading indoors

Things to consider while shopping

Weight (and your preferred book type).

If you're a paperback-lover leaning toward a light that attaches to your book, you'll want to take stock of the device's weight. A light will typically attach to a hardcover just fine, but heavier lights can put strain on a precious paperback.

Charging vs. batteries

Would you prefer a book light that is USB rechargeable or battery operated? Our list contains both, and the answer is a matter of personal preference. Something to keep in mind: if you're going to be using your book light often, a rechargeable light will save you buying batteries in the long run.

Brightness and color settings

For some, one light setting works just fine. But if you have sensitive eyes (or just want more control over your brightness), you may want to opt for a book light with adjustable settings. Plenty of the lights on our list offer multiple brightness levels and color tones so you can find the right fit for your eyes, no matter where you are.

Frequently asked questions

What's the best color light for reading books.

Research suggests that lower temperatures of warm white light is easier on the eyes. Look for a book light that offers warmer temperature settings, ideally with adjustable brightness so you can find the amount of light that feels comfortable for you while you read.

How long do LED book lights last?

Many rechargeable LED book lights will last anywhere from 5-80 hours on a full charge, depending on the size of the light (larger book lights typically hold longer charges) and the brightness you're using.

Are reading lights worth it?

If you're an avid reader, a book light will help you keep the pages turning, even when things get dark. Plus, many reading lights are relatively affordable ($9-$30) and, thanks to USB charging, are relatively low maintenance. If you're hoping to avoid straining your eyes or bothering your partner in bed, a book light is a great solution.

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7 Best Book Lights in 2024 – Illuminate Your Reading Experience

Explore our detailed reviews and recommendations for the best book lights in 2024. Whether you're a student or a traveler reader, we've got you covered. Elevate your reading experience with the perfect book light.

Advertising Disclosure: Our editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products; we may receive commissions on purchases made from our chosen links. You can learn more about our review process here .

Table of contents.

• What is red light therapy
• The Best Book Lights of 2024
• How We Picked
• Best Book Lights for Reading

How Do Book Lights Work?

• Key Factors to Consider
• What Specific Benefits It Offer?

Frequently Asked Questions

Best book reading lights benefits have been scientifically researched and proven as the most beneficial that offer notable eye health benefits. Among the key advantages, that book lights offer, which we also elaborate on in the sections below include; eyesight protection, eyestrain, and fatigue prevention. They also make your reading experience enjoyable.

In this review, our experts have worked tirelessly to ensure that you have the information you need about the best book light for reading including the benefits, how they work, features to look out for, and much more. Keep reading to learn more about book-light lamps.

What are Book Lights?

Book Lights are reading lamps designed to help you read your book in the dark without straining your eyes or experiencing eye fatigue.

Book lights have also been found to improve the quality of sleep after hours of exposure to light during reading. They stimulate melatonin levels in the body which in turn promotes sleep. There are varieties of models customized for home use while others are for office use.

Bhavin Shah , a Behavioral Optometrist at Central Vision Opticians , an ophthalmic practice located in London England says that good lighting can help increase eye comfort and reduce eye fatigue when working. He adds that there is a wide range of lamps with long-lasting LED bulbs designed to offer light temperature and several brightness settings to fit your needs.

The Best Book Lights of 2024:

• At Official Website

• At Amazon.com

How we picked

Trusted Manufacturers

Getting your hand onto a counterfeit product in this industry is very common because people are out to make quick money. So, when selecting our top picks, we ensured that they were from a trusted manufacturer. This means by considering our top picks there are high chance that you will be buying an authentic product.

Good for Hardcover or Paperback

We wanted to ensure that you have access to a variety of options that will help you read hardcover and paperback books with much ease. We, therefore, selected the lights that will allow you to easily turn pages while illuminating the whole page without damaging or tearing the book cover.

Portability

Reading light portability is important as it increases flexibility. In our selection criteria, we considered reading lights that are easily portable for your convenience.

Convenient for Travel

Reading lights are not just convenient for reading in bed but for travel too. In our selection, we ranked lights that require minimal packing space or are easy to fold and fit in a travel bag.

Best Book Lights for Reading at Night

There are varieties of models and most of them are accompanied by a clip that enables you to slide onto the book. You can then make use of the bendable arm to help you pool the light over the page you are reading at an angle appropriate for you. These best rechargeable book lights enable you to work comfortably and continue to enjoy the thing you love doing without worrying about issues like eyestrain or eye fatigue

1. Hooga Health Clip-On Light

Best For: Eye Strain

Features: Blue light-blocking amber LEDs, Rechargeable battery that lasts up to 8 hours, 3 brightness levels, Flexible neck that can clip onto books, tablets, and laptops, and Lightweight at only 2 ounces.

Price: $29.99

Pros & Cons

• The blue light-blocking feature is perfect for reducing eye strain during late-night reading.
• With a rechargeable battery, you can enjoy hours of reading without worrying about replacing batteries.
• The adjustable light ensures you can customize your reading experience to the perfect brightness.
• This lightweight device is easy to carry, making it ideal for travel or on-the-go reading.
• Not only is it packed with features, but it’s also highly affordable, making it a great value for your money.
• The highest brightness setting could be brighter for some.
• Neck joints could be more durable according to a few reviews.

More to Know

There are positive reviews on the official site, users rate it 4.7 out of 5 stars. User S. Vernon explains:

My sister recommended this and I’m very pleased. It’s a nice warm, soft light and I can still read (with my glasses on) without any problem. Plus, it doesn’t bother my husband who is sensitive to ambient light. He falls asleep in minutes, yet I can stay up reading in bed until I’m tired! It’s a win-win! Also love how it’s rechargeable.

2. Glocusent Reading Light

Best For: Reading

Features: 5 Brightness Adjustable, 3 Color Modes & Eye Caring, USB Rechargeable & Long Lasting, Flexible & Portable Design, 18-month warranty.

Price: $15.99

• The convenient bookmark design allows you to pick up where you left off with ease.
• Enjoy dual-sided lighting for versatile reading options.
• The adjustable neck provides flexibility to position the light exactly where you need it.
• Choose from multiple brightness levels to create the perfect reading environment.
• Benefit from a long battery life, so you can read for hours without interruptions.
• Some reviews suggest that the clip could be stronger, so it’s something to consider.
• The website lacked detailed specifications regarding lumens and battery capacity.
• The auto-shutoff timer length was not specified, leaving it open to question.

There are positive reviews on the official site, users rate it 4.4 out of 5 stars. User Kat explains:

Everyone who’s been talking about this product is right! It’s packed with fantastic features, and they all work perfectly. It’s become one of my favorite Amazon purchases. If I could improve it, I’d add a case to prevent accidental power button presses in my purse and a leash for the USB charging cover. However, it’s a great product, perfect for a reading light, and its portability is a big plus for various lighting needs. Its swivel head adds to its versatility.

3. Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light

Best For: Reading, Knitting, Camping, or Repairing Etc.

Features: 3 brightness levels, Bendable neck for adjusting the angle of light, Rechargeable battery with USB charging, Clamp design securely holds the light in place.

Price: $21.99

• This product offers an affordable price, making it budget-friendly.
• The adjustable neck and brightness settings enhance the reading experience.
• The clamp securely holds the light in place, preventing it from slipping.
• It comes with a rechargeable battery, eliminating the need for constant battery replacements.
• The clamp, while functional, may not be as strong as certain competitors.
• A small number of reviews have reported quality issues, so consider this when making your purchase decision.

There are positive reviews on the official site and Amazon, users rate it 4.2 out of 5 stars. User Publicname explains:

1 year later and still really pleased. I’ve had this lamp for about a year and am very pleasantly pleased with how well it’s held up between a rough toddler, a young child, and intercontinental travel. It’s still just as bright has has a fairly good battery. My husband loves it too and even wants one for himself. Very useful for all sorts of situations between crotchet and car work. While I have used all the light options I prefer the soft yellow unless I’m crocheting with black or dark colours. Lovely lamp.

4. Vekkia Book Light

Best For: Blue Light

Features: 3000K warm light that blocks blue light, 3 brightness settings, Up to 60 hours of run time, Super lightweight at 2.15 oz.

Price: $17.99

• Enjoy the benefits of blue light blocking and warm light, enhancing your reading comfort.
• With a 60-hour battery life, you can read for extended periods without worrying about recharging.
• The lightweight design makes this product easy to carry and use on the go.
• It offers an affordable price, providing great value for your money.
• There are limited customer reviews available, so it’s challenging to gauge its overall performance.
• The website lacks comprehensive information about the product, leaving potential customers with unanswered questions.

There are positive reviews on the official site and Amazon, users rate it 4.0 out of 5 stars. User Bradley Ermey explains:

Great light that can be used for more than reading. I bought this mainly for reading then realized I use this for many other things as well. 3 levels of brightness, battery life is decent. Have had it over a year and no issues.

5. Lumio Book Lamp | Lito Classic

Best For: Portable Lamp

Features: Adjustable 360-degree opening, Magnetic mount, 8-hour battery life, Folds up for portability.

Price: $119.00

• Enjoy the convenience of adjustable lighting and a magnetic mounting system for easy use.
• Its portable and compact design makes it a handy companion for on-the-go reading.
• The warm light adds a cozy ambiance to your reading environment.
• It comes at a higher price point compared to basic book lights, which is worth considering.
• There’s no mention of lumen or color temperature specifications, leaving some technical details uncertain.

There are positive reviews on the official site and Amazon, users rate it 4.1 out of 5 stars. User Ana B.T.C explains:

Beautiful, elegant and so bright This is a work of art. And it’s so well made and practical that I have used it since day one. It gives a warm but strong light, and the magnets allow for great combinations. Highly recommended!

6. Mighty Bright Book Light

Best For: All-Purpose Book Lights

Features: Rechargeable, no need for batteries, 2-10 lumens of light, 3000K warm light, 10 x 1 x 1 dimensions

Price: $32.99

• It’s rechargeable, eliminating the need to purchase batteries.
• The light is bright yet soft, ideal for comfortable reading.
• Its compact and portable size makes it easy to carry around.
• Enjoy a long battery life of up to 10 hours, ensuring extended use between charges.
• Shorter neck than some other Mighty Bright models so may not light the whole page evenly.

There are positive reviews on the official site and Amazon, users rate it 4.1 out of 5 stars. User Debbie J. explains:

I Love This Book Light! Okay, this is the 4th Mighty Bright I’ve purchased. Three for myself and one for my daughter. I love the slim and flexible design and the light quality is great. One for our travel trailer, one near my nightstand, and one by my recliner.

7. Black Diamond Headlamp

Best For: Headlamp

Features: 500 lumens max brightness, BD 1500 rechargeable lithium-ion battery, Micro USB recharging, Elastic headband with Repreve recycled textiles, Multiple lighting modes.

Price: $74.95

• Delivering an impressive 500 lumens of brightness, it ensures excellent visibility.
• With a rechargeable battery, you can save on frequent battery replacements.
• It offers multiple lighting modes for versatility in various situations.
• Its durable and waterproof construction enhances its longevity and usability.
• While feature-rich, it does come at a higher price point compared to some other headlamps.

There are positive reviews on the official site and Amazon, users rate it 4.1 out of 5 stars. User Albeyro M. explains:

I’ve had several headlamps but none with such a wide array of features that make it an essential tool on every hike. Without a doubt, it is one of my best purchases.

Your eyes by nature can work best using natural daylight and such light is healthy for your eyes. However, in the dark or when indoors, you are forced to utilize artificial lighting which isn’t healthy because it does not give the needed support offered by the natural daylight .

As noted in the Journal of Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, by Anne-Marie Chang and other researchers, ordinary artificial light is unbalanced. Now, this forces your eye muscles to strain or work hard in order to adjust to the light, leading to eyestrain.

That’s where the best book lights for reading at night come in handy. They are designed to help read comfortably at night or in the dark.

Book light lamps have been designed following extensive research that led to the creation of lights that reduce or prevent eyestrain.

They are healthy natural lamps that mimic the sun’s natural light which offers a whole balanced spectral output .

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting Book Lights

• Customizable Light Settings: In our selection, we considered book lights with customizable light settings. This allows you to adjust to your desired level of brightness depending on your location and time of the day for a customized reading experience.
• Color: We considered color when selecting our top picks because color improves visibility making it easier to write, read, and or view intricate details in a print material.
• Compact Design: We considered book lights with a compact design model because compared to bulkier options you are able to clip the light to the back and front cover and still achieve the desired reading experience.
• Has a Study Click: Study click was another of our top considerations when selecting our top picks. We ensure that the book lights on our list have sturdy clips so that they can grip well a book cover and make it stay in place during the period it is in use.
• Lasting Battery: We also considered battery life when selecting our top book lights. We wanted to ensure that we bring you a book light with a lasting battery so that you can enjoy a long read before you can think of charging it again.
• Easy to Charge: Easy to charge was another thing we considered when selecting our top picks. We looked at a book light with a connector not just for easy portability but also easy to put back and take off.

What Specific Benefits Do Book Lights Offer?

Protects eyesight.

Book lights offer extra light that helps improve visual ability. They may, therefore, work great for older people especially those experiencing macular degeneration.

According to a study published in the Journal of the College of Optometrists by Safal Khanal, Timothy G. Gawne, and Thomas T. Norton shows that eye exposure to amber light can help slow down eye growth and also counteract myopia (poor sight in humans).

Prevent eyestrain

Book light lamps are designed to help you read comfortably without straining your eyes. There is scientific evidence that book lights or desk lamps can help reduce eyestrain by up to 51 percent. They are healthy lights designed to ensure that you see healthier.

A publication by Liang Cheng and Xiao-Wei Zhang in the International Journal of Ophthalmology notes that applying upright lighting technology that is optimum for eye health and vision can help prevent eyestrain.

Improves sleep

When reading, the book light lamp does not just emit light to provide you with the light brightness you need for reading at night. It has been found to offer an extra health benefit of enhancing melatonin synthesis that in turn works to promote healthy sleep.

A Johns Hopkins sleep expert Dr. Luis F. Buenaver notes in Johns Hopkins Medicine Journal that when melatonin levels increase in the evening, it makes the body get into a state of quiet wakefulness, hence promoting sleep.

Prevents stress and pressure

Humans typically thrive in sunlight and when the night light does not mimic the natural sunlight, they tend to struggle with mood and behavior changes. This usually has an impact on stress response and the nervous system which in turn affects stress hormones, muscle tension, and blood pressure. Book lights lamps are designed to mimic the natural light which helps to prevent pressure and stress.

A Neurobiology Research unit at Copenhagen University Hospital Denmark, PhD fellow Brenda Mc. Mahon MD notes in an article published in Science Nordic that light works by improving communication between the brain regions that are crucial to managing emotions like stress and anxiety. He says that if people get exposed to light that mimics the morning daylight wavelengths, they improve their anxiety coping mechanisms.

Are LED Lights Good for Reading?

How bright should a book light be.

A: According to experts, 450 lumens is sufficient light for writing, reading, or doing general work but a minimum of 500 lumens holds true. For complicated tasks, you may need about 800 – 1100 lumens. However, if you want to achieve office lighting of 300 lux, you need an LED lamp of at least 600 lumens. A 1000-lumen desk light can give you 500 lux for your workspace.

Is it Safe to Use a Book Light at Home?

A: Book lights are conducive for use at home. The rechargeable book reading light lamps and LED book lights are eye-catching because of the adjustable brightness. So, even if the person you share a bed with is a light sleeper, you can still read your book without disturbing him or her.

What is the Recommended Light Temperature for Reading?

A: There are specific types of light known to tire the eyes faster and also affect mood and concentration during reading. However, natural light of about 4,900 K to 6,500 K is said to be the perfect solution for the eyes as it ensures that you feel comfortable when reading or working. The cold light of 6,500 K is said to offer an excellent brightness level and can also improve overall attention. Warm light of about 2,500 K – 3,000 K is recommended as it helps you relax as you read and offer a better rest after you are done with reading. If you are reading at night, experts recommend using yellow color light of below 3,000 K.

It is crucial that you take care of your eyes so as to prevent eye conditions that may affect your daily activities. One of the things found to affect eyesight is light. However, with the ever-evolving technology, we now have in place devices like the best magnifying lights for book reading for vision challenges and the best book lights for reading in bed at Target that enable you to read comfortably without worrying about harmful wavelengths.

In our top picks above, we have selected for you the best book light lamps that are portable and easy to operate for your convenience. Whether you are looking for the best book lights for 4-year-old boys, the best book lights for seeing the whole page, the best book lights for reading in bed, or the best book lights to go over the headboard you will find them in the list of our best rated led book lights above. You can also check out the best booklight reviews available online to help improve your purchase decision.

If you like reading and you’ve been straining to read your book at night, it is time for your reading practice a fresh experience. We have a variety of models to suit people of all ages and regardless of your location or time, our top-rated book light lamps above will definitely improve your overall reading experience as you put your health check in place.

By Dr. Shari Sperling

Shari Sperling, DO, is a board certified dermatologist who specializes in medical, cosmetic, laser and surgical dermatology for adults and children.

**This is a subjective assessment based on the strength of the available information and our estimation of efficacy.

*Result may vary. The information contained in this website is provided for general informational purposes only. No medical claims are implied in this content, and the information herein is not intended be used for self diagnosis or self treatment of any condition.

Disclosure of Material connection: Some of the links in the post above are "associate sales links." This means if you click on the link and purchase an item, we will receive commission. Regardless, we only recommend products or services which we use personally and/or believe will add value to our readers. We are disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials."

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The 5 Best Reading Lights for Seeing the Page (or Kindle Screen) More Clearly

And for the bedtime readers out there, some even produce little to no blue light.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

There’s a wide array of reading lights, from gooseneck clip-ons to wearable models you wrap around your neck. Read on for aspects to keep in mind when shopping for your first or next reading light—with pointers from a registered ophthalmologist—then scroll down for our reviews of the best.

The Best Reading Lights

• Best Compact: Glocusent USB Rechargeable Book Light
• Most Flexible: Vekkia Amber Rechargeable 7 LED Eye-Care Book Light
• Best Neck-Mounted: Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light
• Best for Kids: Dewenwils USB-Rechargeable Book Reading Light
• Most Brightness Levels: Vafovo Amber Rechargeable Reading Light

What to Consider

Design and adjustability.

Connecticut-based, board-certified ophthalmologist and retinal specialist Jerry Tsong, M.D. at Greenwich Ophthalmology, says that your reading light should be bendable and directly point at the words you’re reading. This is why a dedicated light is better than a table lamp, which filters and diffuses light over a large area. The best kinds of reading lights for that direct beam are those that can clip on to the page or device you’re reading from and those that you can hang around your neck.

Tsong says that the best reading lights also have settings for adjusting brightness. Because many clip-on lights sit near whatever you’re reading from, they also don’t have to be as bright. Adjusting the proximity of a reading light to text is important, too, as every reader has their preference for how much light they need without straining their eyes or how much light they need on a particular section of a page. Many of the best reading lights also feature color temperature settings that provide warm and cool options.

Avoid reading lights that don’t adjust or have a variety of settings. An adjustable light offers (literal) flexibility in various situations, especially when swapping between an e-reader, book, and magazine. You won’t save much money by buying an inflexible model either; the cost doesn’t vary much from flexible options.

If you have issues with eye strain from screens and technology, find a reading light that doesn’t emit blue light. “Exposure to blue light, especially at night before bedtime, can disrupt our natural circadian rhythm, which regulates our sleep cycle,” explains Tsong. “So for many people, exposure to blue light makes it harder to fall asleep.”

Many brands indicate whether their lights are blue light “blocking” in the product details or on the packaging. If you’re trying to avoid blue light, look for reading lights with an amber light or an “amber” light setting, which, as we mentioned, absorbs blue light pigments .

Most reading lights recharge via USB or rely on a small 3V coin cell battery typically used in remote controls and quartz watches. 3Vs are inexpensive and generally last between 3 and 5 years before needing replacement.

Types of Light Bulbs

“ LED bulbs are the best suited for portable reading lights,” says Tsong. “They are lightweight, consume much less energy, and don’t emit any heat.” Tsong adds that many reading lights with LEDs don’t produce any blue light of their own.

Other bulb types include incandescent, halogen, fluorescent, and compact fluorescent, but LEDs are the most common. They’re the priciest, but also the most reliable, with a longer life span and less energy usage.

The number of lumens (indicating visible light or brightness) reading lights have varies, though they usually range from 16 to 60. The higher an indicated lumens, the brighter the light.

How We Selected

To find the best reading lights, we spoke with board-certified ophthalmologist Tsong about what to look for with regard to bulb types, directionality, and adjustability. We ruled out any lights that don’t offer various brightness settings, as they don’t have much versatility between reading mediums. Also, we only considered reading lights that are easily adjustable and have LEDs, per Tsong’s insight.

Furthermore, we conducted online research to see what other experts, guides, and consumer review publications—including Gear Lab , Wirecutter and ZDNET — recommend. Lastly, we considered what customers had to say in their reviews about each product before making our final selections.

Looking for more reading recommendations to make use of your new light? Check out our picks for the best gifts for books lovers , books about scientists , and survival books .

Vekkia Amber Rechargeable 7 LED Eye-Care Book Light

Tsong recommends Vekkia’s Rechargeable book light as a flexible option. Its gooseneck can rotate 360 degrees, and it’s pliable yet durable enough that you can fold it over if you want to stuff the light into a backpack while traveling.

Although this is on the bigger side, Tsong notes that it’s powerful enough to light up an entire page instead of only a portion of it. This Vekkia is available in three colors (black, blue, and white) and has three brightness levels (30, 50, and 100 percent) that can provide up to 70 hours of light.

Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light

This neck-mounted light provides two beams for a doubly bright reading experience if you need it. And since it sits around your neck like a necklace, you can adjust the arms independently according to your fit and lighting preferences. Say you’re reading in bed and don’t want to bother anyone sleeping next to you; the stalks bend up to 90 degrees to keep the light focused on the page and away from their eyes. The three color temperature modes—a cool white, a warm yellow, and a warm white—and blue light filter further boost the adjustability.

Unlike other rechargeable reading lights, this one uses USB Type-C, making it a modern choice. Glucosent claims it provides up to 80 hours of light on a single charge, too. One con: There isn’t a lock to prevent the light from powering on. So if you pack it away in a bag and something hits the power button, turning it on, you could pull it out to find the battery is dead.

Glocusent USB-Rechargeable Book Light

This clip-on reading light is a sturdy mix of ample adjustability and small size. It has five brightness settings and three light temperature settings—a warm amber mode, a cooler breeze mode, and a bright precise mode—that you can toggle between. And, since it’s so tiny, weighing less than an egg, you can pack it for traveling. In fact, Tsong recommends and owns two of these.

This Glucosent is rechargeable via a standard USB-A port (another bonus for travel: no disposable batteries) and provides between 9 and 80 hours of light, depending on the setting. However, several online customers say the light has sometimes taken a long time to charge.

It has impressive adjustability given its solid design, too; both the main arm and the light housing at the end of that arm tilt up and down. Plus, the housing rotates so you can direct the light if it’s off-center of what you’re reading.

Vavofo Amber Rechargeable Reading Light

This rechargeable reading light offers nine brightness levels and nine color temperatures, lending it the versatility to match the preferences of various readers. One of its most prominent features is its power indicator light located near its charging port—a quick glance can tell you whether or not you have to worry about it dying mid-read. This LED is an especially good choice if you’re trying to steer clear of blue light, as it blocks it with its amber light.

Whether you clip this reading light onto your Kindle, paperback, or hardcover book, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by its strong grip. Some reviews say its lowest setting is too bright, however, so be mindful of others when you’re reading with this device.

Dewenwils USB-Rechargeable Book Reading Light

Dewenwils made this light easy to turn on by pressing its lone power button. And it even folds down to serve as a bookmark when not in use. Another feature that makes it great for kids: The body of the light detaches from the clip to reveal the USB-A port, which they can plug directly into an adapter in an outlet. That means there are no additional charging wires necessary. Some users say its runtime is less than the claimed 8 hours claimed, however.

This light has three brightness levels (30, 60, and 100 percent), keeping words illuminated and eyes relaxed. You also won’t have to worry about your children receiving additional blue light, as it claims to block out 99.95 percent of it, which can be especially beneficial when reading those bedtime stories.

Jenna Clark is a freelance writer who covers commerce, travel, beauty, and lifestyle. Her work has been featured in Insider , the Daily Beast , Well+Good , and Taste of Home . When she's not reviewing the latest products or traveling, you can likely find her at a theme park or watching the latest Broadway show. 

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The 10 Best Book Lights of 2024

Illumination for more than reading your favorite page-turner

The Spruce / Alli Waataja

Whether you love reading in bed, or hiding away in a cozy little reading nook to consume your latest novella, the best book lights will let you carry on reading your page-turner at any time of day or night. "Book lights do two things that are potentially helpful," says Sunir Garg , MD, clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology and professor of ophthalmology at Wills Eye Hospital.

"Firstly, brighter light on the page generally increases contrast and a lot of people find increasing contrast to be helpful. Secondly, bright light causes the pupils of the eye to constrict or get smaller." This constriction may "increase the clarity and the sharpness of objects" for some people, according to Dr. Garg.

To compile these top book lights, we considered models we’ve personally used before and supplemented these findings with additional research to select various clip-on, wearable, and bedside options. For each product, we assessed the range of temperature and brightness controls, how well it illuminates the pages of books, and the expected battery life.

We also considered the book lights' overall designs, including their size and weight, as well as any standout features that make them suitable for particular people or circumstances.

• What to Look For
• Why Trust The Spruce

Best Overall

Glocusent led neck reading light.

Highly customizable settings

Comfortable, ergonomic design

Three-day battery life

Can only be charged by Glocusent's USB-C cables

Narrow light angle

The Glocusent Neck Reading Light could have topped a number of the categories in our hunt for the best book light because it’s versatile, customizable, and friendly on the eyes. As its name suggests, you wear this light around your neck and adjust its angle and curve using the flexible ergonomic design.

Each end of the curve contains an LED light with three color temperatures—​​yellow (3,000K), warm white (4,000K) and cool white (6,000K)—and three brightness settings. Each LED is controlled separately and there are multiple combinations of brightness and temperatures to choose from. You can angle each beam of light at 90-degrees and a single light covers both pages of a standard book. 

Instead of revealing the exact brightness of these settings, Glocusent describes them as being bright enough for “general reading,” “brighter reading,” and “precise working.” The brighter the setting, the shorter the battery life, and when we tested this light at home, it took more than three days for the battery to die when using a single light in yellow, general reading mode.

This dropped to seven hours when both lights were set to the cool white setting, or precise working mode. This battery is rechargeable but note that it will only charge with the cable that comes in the box. Our review model wouldn’t work with any other USB-C line.

Style/Design: Neck | Power Source: Rechargeable battery | Battery Life: Up to 3 days | Brightness Options: 3 | Color Temperatures:  3

Best Budget

Dewenwils book reading light.

Four-way adjustable angle

Doubles up as a bookmark

Soft, gentle light is ideal for reading in bed

Short battery life

Single-page view only

The Dewenwils clip-on reading light has two LEDs that offer two temperatures—amber at 1,800K, and white at 3,000K. There are then four brightness settings—50 percent amber, 50 percent warm white, 100 percent amber, or 100 percent warm white. The amber setting is particularly good for reading in bed (ideally propped on a good wedge pillow ) because it's gentle on the eyes and blocks 99.95 percent of blue light. 

The rechargeable battery’s life is lower than others we’ve tried and will last about eight hours. However, when we tested it out, we found that it charges back up to full battery, via any USB port, in an hour. Its narrow beam only illuminates one page at a time but the four-way, hinged design means this angle can be adjusted to suit the book’s size—90 degrees horizontally and 315 degrees vertically.

Style/Design: Clip | Power Source: Rechargeable battery | Battery Life: Up to 8 hours | Brightness Options: 4 | Color Temperatures:  2

Best Clip-On

Vekkia rechargeable book light.

Flexible arms provide more precise light coverage

Independent light switches

Great battery life

Only one color temperature

Flimsy design

Vekkia’s Dual Heads light is a book-mounted alternative to Glocusent’s neck-worn model. It has two lights attached to the end of flexible arms. This allows you to adjust the angle of each beam to guarantee it illuminates every corner of your book. These lights produce just a single 3,000K warm color temperature each but offer two brightness settings. 

This option’s rechargeable battery lasts more than two days on the highest brightness setting, and the overall design is lightweight—if a little flimsy. It doesn’t weigh your book down or make your hands ache. The clip has ribbed, soft pads that grip well to books, yet the clamp is not so tight that it damages the pages.

Style/Design: Clip | Power Source: Rechargeable battery | Battery Life: Up to 2 days | Brightness Options: 2 | Color Temperatures:  1

Best Neck Light

Hammacher schlemmer reading light.

Hammacher Schlemmer

Non-slip neck piece

Multiple brightness and color temperature settings

Lifetime guarantee

Light doesn't stay fixed

A more expensive alternative to Glocusent’s next-worn reading light is this wearable version from Hammacher Schlemmer. It has a high-quality, robust design with a non-slip neck piece that is both comfortable to wear for long periods, and practical should you want to wear it while walking the dog, jogging or other activities besides reading. While it’s pricier than many other options, Hammacher Schlemmer offers a lifetime guarantee on its products—so you can feel confident you’re getting a reliable product.

The two arms feature LEDs that provide either 2,700K of warm white light, which is suitable for reading, or 7,000K of cold white light, which is great for more precise working. There are then three brightness levels: spotlight, floodlight, and spot/floodlight combined. Its rechargeable battery lasts up to 16 hours on the spotlight setting, and you can charge it via standard USB.

Style/Design: Neck | Power Source: Rechargeable battery | Battery Life: Up to 16 hours | Brightness Options: 3 | Color Temperatures: 2

Best Wearable

Nachteule rechargeable book light for glasses.

Lightweight, hands-free design

Direct beam of light

Limited light options

Low battery life

If you want more precise illumination than that provided by neck-worn lights, opt for this rechargeable, and award-winning, Night Owl book light from Nachteule. It weighs under 0.5 ounce and measures just 1.7 inches in length, meaning you can easily and comfortably attach it to any glasses frame via a small, built-in clip. 

A single LED offers 2,700K of soft white light and there is only one brightness option. The on-board battery is poor in comparison to others in this list, and it lasted three hours when we tested it at home. This is understandable, given the light’s size and the battery is rechargeable via any micro USB port. However, we found that we had to charge it daily, which might be an annoyance for some bookworms.  

Style/Design: Clip | Power Source: Rechargeable battery | Battery Life: Up to 3 hours | Brightness Options: 1 | Color Temperatures: 1

Best Rechargeable

Easily illuminates two pages of a book

Lightweight

Single color temperature

Out of all of the rechargeable book lights in our list, this Vekkia version is designed to last the longest. The built-in battery can run for 70 hours (or even more—in our experience) on a single charge when used continuously on the lowest of its three brightness settings. It then charges from zero to full in around three hours via the included USB cord.

The Vekkia light clips gently to book pages, thanks to its soft grip pads, and its flexible arm lets you easily move it into the desired position. The light itself comes from seven small LEDs that emit 3,000K of soft white light and this setup easily illuminates two pages of a standard-size book. What’s more, it weighs just 2.15 ounces, making it a lightweight and comfortable task lighting solution.  

Style/Design: Clip-on | Power Source: Rechargeable battery | Battery Life: Up to 70 hours | Brightness Options: 3 | Color Temperatures:  1

Best Bedside Book Light

Block blue light sleep lamp.

Block Blue Light 

Amber LED lights

Flexible arm

Impressive battery life

Don't need to clip it to anything

While clip-on lights are highly portable and provide more direct illumination, having to move them between pages each time can be a pain. A less time-consuming option is a cordless lamp , such as the compact NoBlue Amber Sleep Lamp from Block Blue Light. It acts as a night light and its amber LEDs are free from blue wavelengths that might disrupt sleep, according to some studies.

This bedside book light plugs mimics the soft, warm light emitted from candlelight. It has three brightness settings—25, 50, and 100 percent—so you can make it as bright as you need for reading. It also has a flexible arm that lets you direct the beam of light at the best possible angle, which increases how much of a book you can see at one time. The lamp is rechargeable using the included USB cord, and it can last for up to 16 hours.

Style/Design: Bedside | Power Source: Rechargeable battery | Battery Life: Up to 16 hours | Brightness Options: 3 | Color Temperatures: 1

Best Overhead

Kagwon reading light stick.

Easy to mount and reposition

Angled design

Touch controls

Low battery life on the brightest mode

Only one light temperature option

The Kagwon Wall Reading Light Stick features 16 LEDs that offer 6,000K of white light. Unlike many other wall-mounted sconces or lights that need an electrician to install, this Kagwon model is magnetic. It automatically sticks to any metal surface, or you can use double-sided tape to stick its metal base to any wall or cupboard.  

Once attached to a metal surface or base, you can angle the Kagwon light from 45 degrees to 135 degrees. A built-in touch sensor then lets you toggle between three brightness modes—low, moderate and bright. On the lowest setting, this light’s rechargeable battery can last two days. This drops to around ten hours on moderate, and three hours on bright.

Style/Design: Wall-mounted | Power Source: Rechargeable battery | Battery Life: 3 to 48 hours | Brightness Options: Three | Color Temperatures: One

Best for Travel

Glovion solar clip on book light.

Solar-powered

Also includes micro USB

Good battery life

Limited illumination on lower brightness settings

Another clip-on book light—but this one has something unique. Attached to this Glovion light is a small solar panel that allows you to charge its built-in battery on the go. This makes it perfect for holidays, or when you’re looking to travel without having to manage multiple charging cables. That said, should you need to charge this light it comes with a micro USB cable. 

There are three soft white LEDs in the light itself and these can be set to either high or low brightness. The low option is bright enough for illuminating one page, and the battery life on this mode lasts 12 hours. If you want to illuminate both pages at once, we recommend using the higher mode, but the battery life will drop to around five hours.

Style/Design: Clip | Power Source: Rechargeable battery | Battery Life: Up to 12 hours | Brightness Options: 2 | Color Temperatures: 1

Best for Children

Flexilight pal reading light.

Very long battery life

Large range of fun styles available

Light doubles up as a bookmark

Batteries are non-rechargeable

Limited illumination

Whether you’re trying to encourage your child to read more, or you’ve given birth to a bookworm, this battery-powered Flexilight is both fun and practical. It’s available in a range of 18 styles, from animals to robots and dinosaurs, and each one gently clips onto the pages of a book to double up as a book light and bookmark. 

There is a single, bright white LED in the head of each chosen design. This LED offers one level of brightness and you can reposition it easily, thanks to the light’s bendy design. We found this light to be adequate for illuminating a single page but not two. This light runs on two non-rechargeable CR2016 batteries which we found could run for more than four days of continuous use.

Style/Design: Clip | Power Source: Battery | Battery Life: Not listed | Brightness Options: 1 | Color Temperatures: 1

The Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light is our best overall book light because it combines comfort, convenience, and precise control—all at a budget-friendly price. It brings a high-level of customization in terms of color temperatures and brightness settings for people who like to read anywhere and everywhere. If a clip-on book light better suits your needs, our best clip-on pick Vekkia Rechargeable Book Light is lightweight, bright, and needs to be charged less frequently than others in our list.

What to Look for in a Book Light

Clip-on book lights are the most common and cheapest option. They clip onto your book or Kindle to illuminate pages from above. The best clip-on book lights have soft pads on the clip to avoid damaging individual pages. They’re lightweight enough to avoid adding weight to your book and typically illuminate at least one full page of a book. 

An alternative to clip-on lights are wearable book lights. These come in two main designs—neck-worn book lights and lights you attach to your glasses. The best neck lights are flexible, allowing you to bend them to where they feel most comfortable. They have lights on each end of the curved design that illuminate both pages of your book at once. 

Glass-worn lights clip onto the frames of glasses or goggles. They come with limited color and temperature options, and their battery life can be lacking, due to their small size. Yet they illuminate whatever you’re looking at. This means you don’t have to adjust the angle. 

Finally, there are bedside reading lights. The best bedside lights for reading resemble regular lamps but feature more color and brightness controls. They usually have soft, amber lights that help your body relax and unwind.

Bedside book lights can come in cordless options, such as the Block Blue Light NoBlue Amber Sleep Lamp , our best bedside light pick . You can also find wired options—the primary perk of corded lamps is you don’t have to worry about battery life, but they aren’t as portable.

Color and Brightness Settings 

The best book lights offer multiple color and brightness settings. This is so you can customize your lighting to suit your eyesight preferences.

Color temperatures are measured in degrees of Kelvin (K) on a scale from 1,000 to 10,000. When it comes to book lights “there are two main ranges of temperatures,” explains Sunir Garg, MD, clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

"One temperature is around 2,700K. This is similar to what a traditional incandescent bulb emits and is considered ‘warm.'  The other range is around 5,000K. This is a typical white light or ‘daylight .'"

Blue light, which some studies have shown can disrupt sleep patterns, has a temperature around 3,200K and higher. If you want to avoid blue light exposure, opt for book lights with lower Kelvin ratings and amber tones, or lights that specially list blue light filters in their product description. 

The brightness settings on book lights are usually listed as low to high, or by the type of activity they’re best suited to.

Battery Life

The majority of book lights run on rechargeable batteries. Each one’s battery life depends on a number of factors, from the battery’s size, to the brightness setting you choose and how long you read for. Smaller, basic lights will go from full to flat in a few hours, but more advanced lights can run for more than three days of continuous use. 

Realistically, you’re not going to be reading for three days straight, so even lights with battery life on the lower end of the scale should only need charging once a week. If you’re not reading regularly, they’ll last a lot longer. The main thing to consider when buying a rechargeable book light is what cable you need, and whether it’s compatible with all cables of that type, or just the one it ships with. 

You can buy book lights that run on standard, non-rechargeable batteries, such as the Flexilight Pal Reading Light , our best for children pick . These batteries usually last much longer, but you’ll need to pay to replace them. If battery life is a major concern, we recommend buying a corded bedside lamp to avoid any anxiety.

The brightness of a book light depends on a large number of factors, from the ambient lighting to the size of the text, your eyesight, the color temperature it's paired with and more. 

Dr. Garg adds that “there is no specific number” to look for in terms of book light brightness but the light generated by a 60- to 100-watt bulb (or equivalent) is “usually sufficient.”

He encourages his patients to try different brightness settings to find which one feels most comfortable and works best for them. “Obviously, if a light is too bright and causes discomfort, that should be avoided. Reading with a bright light will not be harmful to the eyes but can cause fatigue,” adds Dr. Garg. 

According to Peter Legg , där lighting’s lead designer, when reading on a digital device specifically, you might “try to ensure the area you’re reading in is brighter than the screen itself. This may require balancing the brightness of the device itself as well as controlling the environment.” 

“There have been some studies that suggest that light around 5000K may be ‘better’ for reading,” says Dr. Garg. This is because it is thought cool white lighting temperatures make us more alert, while warm lighting temperatures help us to relax. Yet, he believes in patients finding what works best for them.

“LEDs offer a focused light stream which makes them a great choice for any directional light you need, from a reading light to task lighting in the kitchen,” says Legg. “They also have a good longevity, consume less energy than traditional bulbs and are much cooler to the touch.”

Dr. Garg adds that when it comes to reading, however, “it matters less about the specific type of light, whether incandescent or LED.” He says that brightness, distance to the page, and color spectrum are factors readers should be considering instead.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Victoria Woollaston is a freelance science, technology, and lifestyle writer with more than a decade’s experience testing and reviewing consumer products. She’s had experience using dozens of books and reading lights in various designs, and she has personally tested the majority of entries in this list, as well as a number of others from different brands. She currently uses the Glocusent Neck Light for reading and jogging.

To learn more about the benefits of different book lights and their eyesight implications, Woollaston spoke with experts to learn more about the importance of color temperatures and brightness settings and what features to look for. She then tested book lights that combine convenience with cost and controls, and which meet the different needs and demands for readers and crafters.

Our Experts:

• Sunir Garg , M.D., clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology and professor of ophthalmology at Wills Eye Hospital
• Peter Legg , lead designer at där lighting

Mathôt S, Ivanov Y. The effect of pupil size and peripheral brightness on detection and discrimination performance . PeerJ . 2019;7:e8220. doi:10.7717/peerj.8220

Shechter A, Kim EW, St-Onge MP, Westwood AJ. Blocking nocturnal blue light for insomnia: A randomized controlled trial .  J Psychiatr Res . 2018;96:196-202. doi:10.1016/j.jpsychires.2017.10.015

Grant LK, Kent BA, Mayer MD, Stickgold R, Lockley SW, Rahman SA. Daytime exposure to short wavelength-enriched light improves cognitive performance in sleep-restricted college-aged adults . Front Neurol . 2021;12:624217. doi:10.3389/fneur.2021.624217

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Night Lights: The Best Book Lamps for Reading Before Bed

By Natalli Amato

Natalli Amato

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.

For many people, taking some time to read before falling asleep is exactly what’s needed to set you up for a good night’s sleep. However, having bright lights on before hitting the hay can keep you (and those around you) alert and awake when you finally close your book. Enter the best book lights for reading at night, which can help prevent eye strain, but still make it easy to see the text on the page. Here’s what you should know about picking out the right book lamp for your nighttime reading routine.

Book Light Buying Guide

When you’re choosing the best book light to support your nightly reading ritual, there are a few things that you want to look out for.

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Since blue light can interfere with your sleep cycle, the best book lights use warm, amber light instead of blue light to protect our eyes. If you read before bed, then amber light is a must-have feature to avoid strain. Many of the best book lights come with multiple light settings, including daytime light levels, that also make it easy to read during the day or in dark situations. Another feature to think about is how the light attaches. While many book lights attach to the book itself, you can also find portable book lamps that you can wear, say, around your neck, to keep your hands free.

The Best Book Lights to Buy Right Now

No matter your reading needs, we’ve found the best book lights that will keep your eyes from straining.

1. Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light

It’s no secret that kids love to read before bed, too. This wearable book light helps your child see more clearly as they read, and, thanks to its warm light setting, it also helps them fall asleep without disruptions to their natural rhythms. This book light is especially handy when you’re traveling with your kids. Whether they’re in the back seat of the car or buckled in on a train or plane, they can read and do other activities without having to adjust the lamp.

Buy Glocusent LED Neck Reading Light $21.99

2. Hooga Book Light

Shopping for a bedtime reading light? Consider Hooga’s book light. It emits warm light similar to the gentle glow of a fire, completely free of blue light. Reading with this book light won’t interfere with your circadian rhythm. Still, it’s bright enough for you to read clearly and comfortably without ever straining your eyes. It offers up to three brightness levels, plus a 360-degree head that rotates. When operating on its lowest setting, this book light can last for days on end.

Buy Hooga Book Light $12.99

3. Vekkia Bookmark Book Light

Vekkia’s bookmark-style book light is easy to attach, saving your page in the process. Whether you’re reading a paperback or writing in a journal, this book light can securely attach to your reading surface thanks to its built-in clip. It’s an ideal pick for those of us who read day and night, too, thanks to its three dimmable brightness levels. It has soothing warm light to support your bedtime reading ritual, but it also has a bright white light setting that’s ideal for travel and commutes during the daytime. When operating on its lowest setting, this book light has 20-hour battery life.

Buy Vekkia Bookmark Book Light $14.99

4. GearLight Rechargeable Book Light

These highly rated clip-on book lights from GearLight make excellent stocking stuffers for the readers in your life. Sold in packs of two, these book lights feature an adjustable neck and have white, amber, and daylight modes. Bonus: They feature a 30-hour battery life for days of reading in the dark before needing recharged. Each book light weighs just a couple ounces, so they make excellent travel accessories, too.

Buy GearLight Rechargeable Book Light $14.75

5. Vekkia Dual Heads Rechargeable Book Light

Most book lights have one head that focuses the beam on your book without disturbing others around you. However, Vekkia makes an excellent dual-head book light that increases the light’s coverage on the page without losing the precision that personal book lights are known for. Giving off a warm hue that’s comfortable on your eyes, Vekkia’s book light uses highly efficient LED lights that have over 60 hours of battery life. Plus, you can control the brightness levels.

Buy Vekkia Dual Heads Rechargeable Book…

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The Best Book Lights of 2024

Recommendations are independently chosen by Reviewed's editors. Purchases made through the links below may earn us and our publishing partners a commission.

Why trust Reviewed?

Reviewed's mission is to help you buy the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. Our team of product experts thoroughly vet every product we recommend to help you cut through the clutter and find what you need.

Glocusent Lightweight 10-LED Book Light

Multiple color options

18-month warranty

80 hours of charge

Rare reports of defective batteries

Glocusent Horizontal ET-Head Book Light

Wide light coverage

Four color options

Some users find it cumbersome

Vekkia Rechargeable LED Neck Reading Light

Comfortable silicone construction

Easy to redirect light

Not everyone will love the design

Dewenwils USB Rechargeable Book Light

Extremely lightweight

90-degree swivel

Folds totally flat

Doesn’t feel super sturdy

iZell Flexible Gooseneck Book Light

Highly adjustable gooseneck design

2-year warranty

Clip may seem too strong

Updated June 7, 2023

A good reading light is one of the most useful things that you can have in your home, and we want to help you get one if you don’t already have it.

While some book lights are standard single-brightness lights, others have different intensities and color temperature modes to make sure you’re not straining your eyes too much. Some book lights clamp onto the book, while others simply slide into the back pages. You can also choose between standard battery power and USB-rechargeable reading lights.

We’ve compiled the following list to share some of the best book lights that the internet has to offer. One of them just might light up your life.

The recommendations in this guide are based on thorough product and market research by our team of expert product reviewers. The picks are based on examining user reviews, product specifications, and, in some limited cases, our experience with the specific products named.

Sometimes the simplest solution is the best one. Available in five fun colors, the Glocusent Willow clip on book light features a solid clamp for attaching it to any hardcover or paperback book with ease. And it’s got a rechargeable battery, so you won’t have to worry about constantly buying new ones. It should get 80 hours of battery life on a single charge.

What’s more, it also comes with three different warmth modes to prevent potential eye straining from bright white light. Each of those modes also has three different brightness settings, meaning that you have a total of nine different options. Finally, it includes an 18-month warranty, so you can feel secure when purchasing this handy little light that it’ll be on your nightstand for quite some time.

At just 1.4 ounces, this little book light really packs a punch. The playfully named “ET-Head” design mimics everyone’s favorite little alien. More importantly, this design offers maximum page coverage when reading in bed or in a dark room. Available in four colors, it’s also rechargeable with a standard Type-C USB port.

With three warm light settings and five different brightness levels, you’re sure to find the perfect tone for reading, no matter your environment. You’ll enjoy this compact yet powerful light so much, you’ll be phoning home to tell everyone you know about it.

This neck reading light takes a slightly different approach from the other lights on our list. Rather than being mounted onto the book itself, this light goes around your neck to shine directly on the page. The comfortable flexible design is great for not just books but also mechanic work or any other situation where you need light wherever you happen to be looking.

It includes four flicker-free and blue light-free LEDs, so you’ll be able to read without having your eyes overwhelmed. The rear neck cushion and flexible silicon design allow you to find the most comfortable position for the light while keeping your book illuminated. It’s rechargeable and durable, so you’ll be able to count on this light for as long as the adventures in your books remain in your memories.

Compact and portable are the name of the game for the Dewenwils USB Rechargeable Book Light. With six different colors to choose from and a solid plastic design, this light is a great option for kids just starting their journey with books. With a light that swivels 90 degrees, it also offers maximum mobility and a great way to shine light directly on the part of the page you’re reading.

At just 1.38 ounces, it’s also easy to throw in your bag or your pocket for reading on the go. It also folds completely flat and works great as a bookmark or small flashlight as well in a pinch. It’s designed to slide into the rear pages of your book, so you don’t have to worry about crimping or damaging your pages with any sort of clamp apparatus.

This little LED clip-on light is one of the loveliest reading lights available anywhere, and it’s just as useful as it is attractive. The LED lights consume far less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and the 77 LED beads include three different lighting modes and 10 adjustable brightness levels.

The USB adapter allows you to easily charge the light on your computer or an outlet if you’re on the go. It also includes a sturdy plastic clip, a 360-degree flexible gooseneck design, and a full two-year warranty, so there’s no risk here. Clip this one on your book, or even on your headboard or nightstand, and get to reading at any hour of the night.

If reading is all about fun for you, then you won’t find a more fun reading light than this adorable little caterpillar from Flexilight. As whimsical for adults as it is for kids, this flexible little reading buddy is a great gift idea, and a useful little lamp for the voracious reader in your life.

Designed to double as a bookmark, this single-bead LED light offers a soft light source for reading in a dark environment. It’s lightweight and easy to adjust, and it will keep your little one feeling safe and comforted when reading alone in their room. If your books are fun and full of character, who says your reading lamp can’t be as well?

Fun caterpillar design is great for kids

Doubles as a bookmark

Nice flexibility

Only one LED bulb

If you're looking for a functional book light to use after dusk, then this book clip lamp is worth a look. It easily attaches to a desk, or even your book, so you can see what you're reading at all times. Plus, it comes with a 360-degree adjustable neck so you can angle it however you'd like. Reviewers also love its level of brightness, which can be set in three different modes: warm light, white light, or a combination of both. The battery is built to last over 30 hours, making this an ideal book light to bring on the road.

3 lighting modes

Strong battery life

Adjustable neck

None that we could find

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Prices were accurate at the time this article was published but may change over time.

Meet the tester

Adam Reeder

Freelance writer

Adam Reeder is a freelance writer, consumer advocate, and unapologetic watch geek.

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The Best Reading Lights of 2024— Buyer’s Guide & Reviews

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A reading light is one that can be used for reading, writing, sketching, working on a computer, craftwork, and other detail-oriented activities. Reading lights illuminate a small area over a close distance so that you can get a better focus on your activity.

Picking the right light for reading can be tricky, as reading lights vary vastly in their designs, functions, and features.

Regency Hill Table Lamp

Our Top Recommendation for Reading Lights !

This charming pair of traditional style corded table lamps feature solid and sturdy carved leaf bases with bronze accents which are guaranteed to add a touch of elegance to any room.

*We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

You surely don’t have to be an expert or a lighting engineer to be able to buy a good reading light, but some basic knowledge wouldn’t hurt.

This article covers the most important criteria for a good reading light in the bedroom, the home office, and the reading nook .

It also includes a detailed review of the best reading lights on the market. 

Table of Contents

What to Know Before Buying a Reading Light?

The lumen figure and what it tells.

Whatever you do, you want a lamp that is bright enough so you can see with no difficulty. But it shouldn’t be too bright or your eyes will strain.

The brightness level of the light is decided by the lux figure, that is, how many lumens it can emit on a square meter.

As suggested by the National Optical Astronomy Observatory , we need the illumination of 250 to 500 lumens per square meter for easy, normal visual tasks, such as reading, writing, knitting, and working on the computer.

For more detailed work like drawing or embroidery, an illumination between 1000 to 2000 lumens per square meter is necessary.

It is also suggested that the darker the surrounding environment, the lower the lux you need for your light. This is to reduce the contrast between the lit area and the darker area so that your eyes do not have to adjust dramatically when they wander around.

You probably have known that you can use different bulbs of different wattages to produce the same light output. Therefore, for a desired lumen figure, you have choices over the bulb types.

For bedrooms, you’ll want to make sure there will be no light of extreme brightness levels. This is because light with high intensity can confuse your brain, tricking it into the false recognition that it is daylight. Before you realize it, your body will have already reacted by producing serotonin , causing you difficulty falling asleep.

Thus, a good lighting source for the bedroom should have luminous flux somewhere between 1,500 to 4,000 Lumens .

Be it reading, cuddling to watch a romantic movie, or playing chess before you sleep, a soft, warm shade is best for creating a relaxing and intimate environment in your bedroom. The maximum color temperature is 3000k , and as it is a light for reading, it should not be under 2700k so as not to create extreme emotions or anxiety.

Every of us is unique, and our visuals and preferences are different. But it is worth taking those factors into consideration when you buy a reading light, to make sure the lighting condition is adequate and supportive to your activities.

10 Best Reading Lights

To save your time searching around a plethora of products, we have made this review of the best reading lights for various rooms in your house.

Click on a product to see a more detailed description and review. You will surely find the right light for your bedroom, home office, and reading corner here.

1. Regency Hill Table Lamp – Best Bedside Table Reading Lamp

Bedside reading lamps, apart from providing light to read by, are items that help fine-tune the look and atmosphere of the room.

For a set of lamps that shine efficiently on your book, and convey a high taste of decors, we recommend these Regency Hills.

Each of the lamps comes in a curvy body with decorative carved leaves in wood finish, creating a bold, traditional feel. Its deep bronze color and a brownish, ivory shade match beautifully with other wooden furniture in your bedroom.

Each lamp has a shade to direct the light to more focused areas above and under it. The creme shade, meanwhile, creates a soft romantic glow. Lit together on both sides of the bed, you will feel like the entire room is full of moonlight.

As the lamp is high (30″ or 76cm), you can now enjoy your book in bed in the most comfortable position. The light is always sufficient regardless of you sitting upright or reclining, or lying straight down. No need to adjust your position all the time to catch a beam like when you’re with smaller lamps.

Despite being tall, the lamp stays sturdy on your table without taking much space. That is thanks to its considerate design with a thin profile on both the body and the shade.

Your small bedside tables or petite nightstands can easily accommodate the lamp, together with your books and a chocolate cup.

To enhance coziness and intimate feelings in your bedroom, choose 72-watt halogen bulbs  that produce a warm white or amber glow. The ones with a temperature of 2700 to 3500K will do the trick.

2. Rosslyn Swing Arm Lamps – Best Wall Mounted Reading Light

Nothing adds more style and coziness to a bedroom than a classic wall mounted reading light with a warm shade.

The thing with normal bedroom lamps is, however, that if they look good in the room, they are often the case too dim for a read.

This set of two Barnes and Ivy Rosslyn lamps stand out for both function and design.

Each lamp comes with a metal body engraved with nature patterns, nicely covered in a bronze finish. Its graceful arm is adjustable, reaching out and sliding back to where you please to ensure sufficient space and light focus for your bedtime activities.

Joining the lamp to finish the traditional French country look is a faux leather shade. The shade is slightly brownish in color, promising to deliver a warm, pleasant light. The shade pairs perfectly with the metal parts to create an intimate, but classic and luxurious feeling in the room.

Each of the lamp requires a 43-watt halogen bulb to produce efficient brightness to read your novels and papers. To ensure the light is warm and pleasant to your eyes, choose bulbs with a temperature somewhere between 2700 to 3500K.

When you prefer a softer, gentler glow for a movie or a cuddle in bed, turn the lamp to a dimmer mode, as its intensity is fully adjustable.

For a perfect neat look, the lamp can be hard-wired inside the wall. But if you opt for an easier option, simply plug it into a socket close to your bed.

3. Newhouse Lighting Clamp Light – Best Clip-on Headboard Reading Light

The best reading light on your headboard is one that is portable, produces warm gentle light, but at the same time has a focused area so you don’t have to widen your eyes to be able to read. This Newhouse is such one.

At 300 lm, the light is sufficient for reading in a dimmer lit environment. As it is very soft, your eyes do not have to adjust themselves between pauses of your read, when they drift off the lit pages into darker areas in the room.

Designed for “stress-free productivity and enjoyment”, the Newhouse produces an adequate glow at 3000K. It is pleasant to the eye, warm enough to not mess with your melatonin (the sleep hormone), but bright enough to not lure you to sleep 3 minutes into your book.

The light comes with a sturdy clamp that opens to approximately 2 inches. To protect the gripped surface from the strong grip, 6 suction cups are added inside it. If you have had clamp reading lights that scratch or peel off the paint on your reading table or headboard, you’re gonna appreciate this.

In terms of design, the cutie has a sleek, shiny appearance. It comes in 3 colors: black, purple, and bright blue. Personally, I can see it matching better with modern designs and decors.

The light would be perfect if it had a dimmable function for those who want a fast read to lure themselves to sleep.

4. Regency Hill Exeter Table Lamps – The Best His and Hers Reading Lights

These Regency Hill Exeter lamps look as classical and stylish as an expensive antique, yet they cost just a fraction of the price. If your bedroom décor airs towards elegance, then the crimson red shades and deep mahogany-tone bases will blend in seamlessly. Moreover, it will add a bold pop of color and warmth to your surroundings. 

Speaking of warmth, this pair of lamps emit a beautifully soft, warm glow that adds a romantic feel to the room, whether one of both is illuminated. And the rectangular crimson shades cast the light downwards in the perfect direction for reading in bed, whether you sat upright, lying down, or somewhere in between. 

At 30″ high, the lamps themselves are fairly tall for a nightstand light, but that doesn’t mean they take up too much space. The compact bases measure just 5 3/4″ wide x 4 3/8″ deep, so there’s plenty of room left for your books or your e-reader too. 

But, while the bases are fairly small, they are still super solid and sturdy. It means your lamps will stay put exactly where they should be, even if you accidentally brush past them.

The only downside to these Regency Hill lamps is that you have to buy the bulbs separately. That being said, some people would prefer to choose their own, and they can find the exact wattage and glow for them. You can use bulbs up to a maximum of 100 watts, so you have plenty of scopes to choose from. 

5. WaterDrake Headboard Light — Best Reading Light for Bed Headboard

As expected for a bed light, the lamp has a folded ivory shade, which creates a warm, gentle white light where it is placed, and prevents glare. The material and color come in a retro simple design, making it match easily with most bedroom styles and decors.

The lamp has a half-moon shape with one flat surface to stay intact on your bed headboard. This allows the light to shine evenly over your shoulders, without unintended swinging.

The lamp is hung by two bendable wire-coated hooks, which can fit with 1.5 inches thick boards.

As a side sleeper, I really appreciate this movability. When I change the side of the bed every now and then to make sure I’m sleeping on both sides for my body to retain a balance, I can just simply slide the lamp along.

No need to buy 2 lamps for each side, and no hassles of plugging/unplugging or worse, drilling new holes on the wall to place it.

As the hooks are covered in a smooth material, they won’t create any scratch or peeling on the headboard.

As it is made for the lazy bed readers, the lamp can be switched using a pull chain. Once you’re done with your book, reach over, pull down, and you’re good to sleep.

Overall, this is an item of great value and usefulness. One thing to check before you buy it, however, that your headboard is not too much thicker than 1.5 inches, and is tall enough so that the lamp won’t touch your head when you sit or lie in bed.

Recommended bulb: 40-watt equivalent, 2700K

6. BenQ Genie eReading — Best Table Reading Lamp

A table light, especially one in your bedroom, is not only for reading and studying. It also shines on your sketch board, on the pages of the family album you’re turning, on that scarf you’re knitting for your beloved niece.

Your mood and mind alter for different activities in the bedroom, and you need a light that can accommodate different atmospheres. With a knob that you can twist to change both the brightness and the color temperature, the BenQ Genie is the perfect table reading lamp thanks to its versatility.

Unlike most other LED lamps, the Genie has a crescent head, making it look “softer” and much more graceful than just a straight plate. More than aesthetic functions, the bend also increases the illuminated area, allowing the light to cover a wider part of your table.

At one end of the head is a beautiful ring, which you turn the lamp on and off with. It’s also where you activate the Smart Lighting mode, in which a sensor will detect the room ambient and adjust the light accordingly.

Designed for working with electronic devices, the light is distributed with more brightness to the sides and less in the center, thus minimizing glare on the screen.

To get the exact light angle for your work, you can twist the head around and bend it up and down. You can also adjust the illuminating distance by bending the arm where it meets with the base.

While the head is all artsy and beautiful, the arm and the base both have a rather plain shell. They are function-oriented: simple, sturdy, and incredibly heavy (the lamp weighs 5.3 lbs). The cord is nicely covered with braided fabric, making it even a safer item to put in your bedroom.

While these lamps aren’t the cheapest reading lights on this list, they add a luxurious touch to your bedroom for a very reasonable price.

Read more:  Top 7 Best LED Desk Lamps

Want your reading room to be a place of peace, coziness, and imagination? Find a special reading light.

It doesn’t always have to be a fancy chandelier with loads of sparkling crystals to bring you to the beautiful adventures. However, the light should have a design that promotes privacy and reflects your personality.

In addition, you will need a light with a soft color, such as blue, white, or light green to enhance tranquility in your reading corner. It should help you to release all the stress and lose yourself into the world of fiction books.

For the desired effect, a temperature of 2700 to 4000k (warm white) will be ideal.

1. Brightech Arc Lamp — Best Floor Lamp for Reading Nooks

Nothing in the world sounds more heavenly to book lovers than a snuggle in their comfy chaise lounge with a soft blanket, two fluffy pillows, and a good, good book.

A reading light for those moments is one you can only read by, but can also inspire your imagination and set a cozy, tranquil atmosphere.

The Brightech floor lamp comes in a unique crescent shape, which arches over to shine evenly over your shoulders to the open pages. At 2000 Lumens, it allows you to read even small printed lines and see the steam on your cup of hot tea. The glow is, however, soft, warm, and pleasant to the eye at 3000K in temperature.

As it has a slender arm and head, the lamp takes a humble space in your small cozy corner or reading nook. The simple design allows it to match easily with the surrounding furniture and decors wherever you place it.

The lamp’s simple on/off switch is conveniently placed in the middle of the cord, and is within your feet’s reach. There is no dimmable function, but this light is designed to set the mood for reading, and glare is the last thing you should worry about.

Read more:   Top 10 Best Floor Lamps of 2024

2. CLAXY® Pendant Light — Best Pendant Light for Reading Nooks

Do you know the fasted and easiest way to make your reading corner a balmy, cozy corner for retreat? Install this warm classic pendant light there. Boom!

This Claxy Ecopower barn pendant lamp comes with a black cord, a metal shade with an ivory finish inside, and black paint outside.

The top part, meanwhile, has a fine bronze finish. Around it is some cut-outs, which allow the light to go through and shine up to avoid dark shadowing.

The paint on the whole item is made very fine and shabby instead of sleek. That somehow gives off a feeling of calmness and humility.

Installed with a 60 – 100-watt bulb (or equivalent) at a warm temperature (2700 to 3500K), the lamp can create a homey and secure atmosphere.

It offers that gentle glow that makes you feel safe and relaxed, allows you to forget all of your daily stress, and lose your mind and heart in the beautiful world of books.

At a diameter of 13.1”, the lamp fits very well with the confined space of your reading corner. As it looks simple and classic in style and color, it matches easily with both modern and antique decors.

Your work in the home office requires energy and concentration, and you need to be sharp and alert for the challenging tasks. That is why a specifically designed item with bright, cool white light will be of great usefulness.

A reading light should be bright (with a brightness level of at least 3,000 and up to 6,000 Lumens) enough to stimulate your aspiration and creativity, without creating glare on your computer screen or fatigue on your eyes after a brief drift.

The temperature should be at least 4100, and up to 6000k , which represents the neat, bright feeling of direct sunlight or light on a cloudy day.

1. Brightech Reading Lamp — Best Floor Lamp for Home Office

If you’re working at home and want a setting that enhances your concentration and productivity, putting this Brightech floor lamp next to your desk would be a good move.

Created to boost up working efficiency, the light emitted has a temperature of 6,000K. This is the same as the cool crisp light you usually see on a sunny day that makes you feel energetic, and ready to get work done.

At 2,000 lumens in brightness, the lamp is more than sufficient to light up the smallest details of what you’re working on. You don’t have to bend down closer to see a table of figures or that delicate flower petal on your embroidery frame.

If you want a softer glow for a convo or to watch cat videos on Youtube, the lamp can always be adjusted to a dimmer mode. Simply touch the power button until it reaches your preferred level. The next time you turn the lamp on, it will still remember it!

As a task lamp, the lamp’s light focuses on an area as large as your desk. To make sure you don’t have to move the whole thing when your position changes, the neck is made flexible. You can always bend, twist, and customize to your favorite lighting angle.

Coming in a simplistic, space-efficient style and with 5 shell colors, the lamp can match easily with both traditional wood flooring and more modern spaces.

2. Taotronics Metal Desk Lamp – Best Desk Lamp for Home Office

Bright, sleek and having multiple brightness and colors, this TaoTronics item is the best choice for a table reading lamp in your office. Not every item gets such a near-perfect review score on Amazon.

What’s so special about this lamp? It offers 30 settings for warmth and brightness levels.

For a crisp, bright light to boost your energy and determination in the home office, choose the coolest color and the brightest intensity mode. The next time you turn the lamp on, it’s shining your favorite shade!

To minimize shadows when you read and write, and avoid that glare on your screen when the light is at 1200 lux, the lamp comes with a bendable and rotatable arm. You can easily adjust the arm to get the exact light angle you need.

The base is neat and sleek. As it is heavy (4.4 pounds or almost 2 kilos), it can stay firm when you accidentally push it.

Apart from the various lighting options, the light also has a one-hour timer. Set the light to turn off if you want to take a short break for a coffee or a walk to relax your eyes and back muscles.

As a table lamp, the item is designed to maximize your convenience. It has a USB charger port on the base, saving you that reach when your phone or tablet needs charging.

Finally, the light’s sleek black metal shell and modern design will bring about professional look to your desk.

10 thoughts on “The Best Reading Lights of 2024— Buyer’s Guide & Reviews”

Love the site. I get all my reading tips here. I think the two life changing things I did was to buy a Kindle and a Lumiy Lightblade Lamp. I read tons now through Kindle and the Lumiy lamp helps me read and work so much better (this lamp has just such good quality light I can’t get over it, I have NEVER found anything else like it).

That’s really great to hear Michelle, we love that!

• Pingback: 7 Must-Have Gifts for Mom's Book Nook - Hooked to Books

Also really like the Lumiy Lamps. They’re just so bright. #lumiylightblade

great post. i have the lumiy lightblade that one is super bright. thanks for the tips!

Really like the Lumiy Lightblade LED desk lamp. That lamp is so bright!

Great post! Thank you – With the way you did the post, it made it easy to figure out which might work best for our house. The WaterDrake headboard light is very cool and might work perfectly in our guest room!

Thank you for compiling all this! I’ve been in need of a good reading lamp for awhile and this article helped. I’ve ordered Taotronics’ Elune and look forward to trying it out.

Thank you, Anodysseyinbooks. I hope you’ll have a good experience with the lamp!

I think soft white is best for our reading room. Infect, reading room need such kind of lights which is not more brighter, not more darker. In this way, soft white is my first choice. Thanks for sharing.

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Beam n Read: A Personal Reading Light for Travelers

Sarah Schlichter

Deputy Executive Editor Sarah Schlichter's idea of a perfect trip includes spotting exotic animals, hiking through pristine landscapes, exploring new neighborhoods on foot, and soaking up as much art as she can. She often attempts to recreate recipes from her international travels after she gets home (which has twice resulted in accidental kitchen fires—no humans or animals were harmed).

Sarah joined the SmarterTravel team in 2017 after more than a decade at the helm of IndependentTraveler.com. Sarah's practical travel advice has been featured in dozens of news outlets including the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, USA Today, Budget Travel, and Peter Greenberg Worldwide Radio. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor .

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "A journal. Even years later, reading my notes from a trip can bring back incredibly vivid memories."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Road tripping and hiking through the rugged mountains of Patagonia."

Travel Motto: "'To awaken quite alone in a strange town is one of the pleasantest sensations in the world.'—Freya Stark"

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Aisle. I get restless on long flights and like to be able to move around without disturbing anyone else."

Email Sarah at [email protected] .

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Ever wanted to read in bed at a hotel without waking your spouse, or needed a little extra light while working on a crossword puzzle during a long flight? If so, you might like the Beam n Read.

I tested two versions of this personal reading light — the LED 6 Hands-Free Task Light and the LED 3 Hands-Free Travel & Reading Light. Both run on four AA batteries (not included) and are worn around your neck on an elastic cord that can be adjusted for length. The LED 3 is a less expensive travel version with only three small LED bulbs, while the LED 6 has six bulbs and casts a wider glow.

You can turn on each device by flipping the light into position for reading. The LED 6 has a switch that toggles between turning on all six bulbs and turning on just three, which is useful if you don’t always want quite as much light.

Both reading lights come with two filters — one red, one orange. These are designed to block out blue light, which can cause eyestrain. Using one of these filters makes for a dimmer light that some users find relaxing, especially before bed.

After testing each light in a dark room, I found them both adequate for reading or other handheld tasks (such as knitting or writing), but, unsurprisingly, the wider LED 6 was better for illuminating a whole open book or magazine. Because both lights use the same number of batteries, there’s very little difference in size or weight between them — so if you can spare the extra $10, I’d recommend getting the larger version. It won’t take up much extra space in your suitcase, and you’ll get more light.

The one advantage of the LED 3 model is that the batteries will last longer. That said, you can purchase a USB/AC power kit (sold separately) that enables you to plug the light into a wall socket when available, saving the batteries for when they’re necessary.

You can learn more about Beam n Read at ReadingLight.com . You can also purchase on Amazon: see the LED 6 ($29.95), the LED 3 ($19.95) and the USB/AC Power Kit ($14.95).

Would you try the Beam n Read?

Editorial Disclosure: Some products are sent to us free of charge to be considered for review. We choose products to review based on their relevance and usefulness to our readers. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not promise any editorial coverage, particularly positive reviews.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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10 Best Book Lights For All Types of Readers

For a little nighttime reading—and to throw those blue light glasses an assist.

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.

First, think about where you're doing (or trying) to get that reading done. Is it in bed, 20 minutes before shutting off the light? Is it on the couch or that comfy chair in the living room you bought specifically for reading? Or, do both of those things sound nice, but the reality of the situation is you are actually reading exclusively at your desk and could really just use a light there?

Here, we rounded up 10 of the best book lights you can get online right now. You can get teeny tiny one that clips right onto your book, one that attaches to the side of your desk or nightstand, or one that attaches to and comes off the wall. Some of them double as flashlights, too. And, hey, maybe you get one of each for making a seamless transition into the myriad of ways in which you can become a reader. Start your search here.

Fully Beam LED Desk Lamp

Fully makes some of the best standing desks around and with that comes a special knowledge of desk accessories. This LED desk lamp clamps onto the side or back of your desk and has four light temperatures and four levels of brightness.

Uncommon Goods Minimalist Portable Night Light

This minimalist night light can be mounted with adhesive, so there's no need to pull out the drill. You can leave the motion-sensor light on the wall or you can take it off to double as a cool-looking flashlight.

KDD Wall Mounted Reading Light

This spotlight style reading light is great for directing bright light into one specific space. You can use it mounted to the wall, on a desk mount, or as a flashlight.

French Bull Duo Light

This clip-on light is small but breaks its light into two directions, making sure each of your pages get some love.

Fatboy Transloetje Table Lamp

This little wireless lamp in a beautiful amber color gives you the perfect hue for relaxed nighttime reading. Or ... move it to a corner for some soft ambient light and turn on the TV.

Mighty Bright Recharge Light

This rechargeable light is great for clipping onto books and fitting comfortably into bags. It's great for traveling and also great if you need a little assist in reading restaurant menus in a charming but dark space.

Miady Clip-on Lamp

If your reading takes you around the house, this little light can come right along with you. It has three levels of brightness and uses a USB to charge.

Sgzshsld Book Light`

This battery-powered book light lays flat against whatever you're reading. This is great for making pages easier to read without lighting up a room or disrupting a sleep partner.

If USA Really Tiny Book Light

This tiny book light is great for bringing in a travel bag for reading on the go. It takes up as much space as a pen, but makes reading on a train or plane so much easier.

Hay Slant Lamp

This slanted Hay lamp is a great addition to a nightstand or side table. The sleek, modern aesthetic instantly elevates a reading space.

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Best reading light 2024: brighten up your pages with these reading lights.

• Flora Baker

Create the perfect reading environment for your favourite book lover with our pick of the best reading lights

Is there anything better than curling up with a good book? Well, it’s a bit trickier if you can barely see the page. Thankfully, the days of reading under the covers with a torch are long gone – and now there are almost too many options for reading lights.

The main aim of a reading light is to illuminate a small area at a close distance so you’re able to focus on it easily. It should be bright enough to read by, but not so bright that it hurts your eyes. So, do you opt for a sturdy anglepoise lamp on the bedside table or a portable clip-on light that attaches to your current book? To help you choose, we’ve put together the best reading lights available right now, plus a short buying guide with additional information. Keep scrolling to find our pick of the best reading lights today.

READ NEXT: The best desk lamps to buy

Best reading light: At a glance

• Best clip-on reading light: Vekkia/Luminolite | £12
• Best floor lamp for reading: John Lewis Brandon | £36
• Best hands-free reading light: Ledgle | £15
• Best reading light for children: Flexilight LED Clip On | £8.33

How to choose the best reading light for you

How do reading lights differ from regular lights.

Where other lights illuminate large areas, a reading light aims to focus all its energy on one particular place. Whether you’re reading, typing, sketching or knitting, a steady stream of focused light is the best way to avoid eye strain and potential headaches. In spaces where you don’t want to distract others, like on transport or when sharing a bed, a reading light is a subtle option for providing light for yourself only.

What kind of light temperature should I be using?

The colour temperature of your light can have a big impact on how you feel: warmer light is cosy and sleep inducing, while white-blue light has the opposite effect.

Some reading lights take this into consideration and feature multiple settings for different temperature gradients and brightness intensities.

Colour temperature is measured on the Kelvin scale (K), a numerical scale where warm/yellow light is in the lower numbers and white/blue light is in the higher numbers.

Warm (2700K – 3000K): Bulbs at the lower end of the scale emit a soft white light that often looks yellow. Warm light isn’t the brightest option but is a good choice when you’re in bed, as it’s the most easy on the eyes.

Neutral (3100K – 4500K): The middle of the brightness spectrum offers a mix of warm and cool light, and is the most versatile temperature.

Cool (4600K – 6500K): At the top end of the scale is cool white light, which increases alertness and productivity. That blue light you’ve heard about in your phone/laptop/TV screen also falls into this category. It’s advised not to use cool light in the evening or when you’re anticipating sleep, as it hinders melatonin production and confuses your body into thinking it’s still light outside.

READ NEXT: The best air purifiers to buy

The best reading lights you can buy in 2024

1. vekkia/luminolite rechargeable 7 led book light: best clip-on reading light.

If you’re looking for a clip-on reading light, the Vekkia/Luminolite ticks all the boxes. The padded clip opens to around 4.3cm (1.7in), so while it definitely fits onto book covers and/or pages, those with bulky headboards may have trouble attaching it there – although it can also stand up by itself, thanks to the heft in the base. That said, it’s still a lightweight piece of kit that’s small enough to fit in the palm of your hand.

In terms of the light it puts out, the Vekkia/Luminolite has a warm setting, white setting and a mix of the two. All three settings can be adjusted for intensity. At just over six inches (16cm) long, the neck is extremely flexible but still retains whatever position you choose. It also has excellent battery life: over sixty hours on a single charge, which you can power up via the micro USB port (cable included).

Key specs – Dimensions: Base 7.11cm, arm 16cm, lamp 5.59cm; Wattage: 1.4W; Material: Plastic; Weight: 60.95g; Bulb required? No; Rechargeable: Yes, via USB

Vekkia/LuminoLite Rechargeable 7 LED Book Light, Easy Clip on Lights for Reading in Bed. 3 Brightness × 3 Color Temperature, 2.1 oz Lightweight, 70 Hrs Wireless Reading. Perfect for Bookworms & Kids

2. john lewis brandon: best floor lamp for reading.

The Brandon floor lamp is absurdly popular, and for good reason. Simple and sleek, it’s little more than a lightweight frame in matte black (the only colour available) with a tiltable, bell-shaped shade at the top. The narrow base means you can place it anywhere in the house without feeling like it overpowers the space, and it’s also surprisingly sturdy for a weight of just 3.8kg.

There’s no bulb included and there is some self-assembly required, but for £30 we think it’s more than worth a bit of DIY – plus, this way you can choose what level of bulb warmth you’d most like to read beneath. John Lewis also includes a five-year guarantee, for some peace of mind.

Key specs – Dimensions: 165 x 23cm; Wattage: 40W; Material: Metal; Weight: 3.8kg; Bulb required? Yes, a 5-7W ES LED Classic bulb is recommended; Batteries required? No, mains powered

Check price at John Lewis

3. LEDGLE: Best hands-free reading light for multiple uses

The LEDGLE reading light is a great all rounder, particularly for people who often find themselves using the torch function on their phone. Designed to sit around your neck, the soft, comfortable rubber frame has two LED bulbs at each end of the two flexible arms. There are three light settings to choose from: spotlight only, flood light only, and spot and flood combined.

While most of us might use this light to read on the sofa, in bed, or on public transport, you could think out of the box and take this on a dog walk, an evening jog, or to focus better on DIY and craft projects that need illuminating. The light comes in three colours and has a built-in lithium battery that’s recharged via a provided USB cable. It takes about 2.5 hours to reach full charge, and then should last for 16 hours at normal brightness or 6.8 hours at the highest brightness level.

Key specs – Dimensions:‎ 26 x 3.6 x 14cm; Wattage: 2.4W; Material: Rubber; Weight: 135g; Bulb required? No; Rechargeable: Yes, via USB

LEDGLE Hands Free Hug Light Neck Book Light Rechargeable LED Night Light Reading Lamp, 4 LED Beads, 3 Adjustable Brightness, USB Cable Included for Reading in Bed or Reading in Car?Black

4. groov-e apollo: best reading light with wireless phone charging.

We love a multipurpose product, and the Groov-e Apollo desk lamp checks a fair few boxes – being a reading light, wireless charger and 3W Bluetooth speaker all in one. Absurdly lightweight and made from a pleasingly smooth, flexible and slip-resistant rubber, the lamp comes with three LED light settings of warm, warm white and cool white. Holding down the single-touch control button for a few seconds adjusts the level of brightness.

While it doesn’t emit the most powerful of beams, and the integrated charging pad took a little longer to power up our phone, the Apollo is certainly bright enough for a spot of late-night reading – and it’s a steal at just £16. Its minimal weight makes the Groov-e Apollo a great travel companion, too.

Key specs – Dimensions: ‎ 12.8 x 12.8 x 16.5cm; Material: Rubber; Weight: 459g; Bulb required? No; Batteries required? No, powered via USB (included)

Groov-e Apollo Touch Control LED Desk Lamp with Built-in Wireless Charger & Bluetooth Speaker

5. flexilight led clip on bookmark: best reading light for children.

If your child’s keen on reading under the covers (let’s face it, we all remember what that’s like!), you can subtly prevent any eye strain by gifting them their own book light. We love this kid-friendly design of a bright blue owl with black and white detailing on the body and a lovely leaf pattern across the rest of the bookmark.

Simply clip the bookmark onto a few pages and bend it forward to illuminate the page. The LED light puts out eight Lumens, which is bright enough to help kids keep up with their reading and, when it’s not being used as a light source, the Flexilight doubles up as a bookmark.

Key specs – Dimensions: 1.6 x 3.6 x 18cm; Wattage: 1W; Material: Plastic; Weight: 22.6g; Bulb required? No; Batteries required? Included

Flexilight Reading Light | 2 in 1 Bookmark Book Light | LED Clip On Reading Lamp | Children Book Torch for Reading in Bed | Book Accessories | Gift Idea for Readers, Book Lovers (Owl)

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6 Best Neck and Book Lights for Reading and Knitting

It can be difficult to knit or read late at night, especially if your partner is a light sleeper. As such, if you’re a night owl who likes to finish a couple of chapters or knit before bed, we’d recommend opting for the best neck and book lights for reading and knitting.

The options that follow cater to a range of lights that offer a short throw, thereby ensuring you don’t disturb your partner’s beauty sleep. At the same time, these lights can aid you in your book-reading and knitting pursuits.

But first, you might also want to read about the following topics –

• Do you read on a Kindle? If so, you should wrap your e-book reader in a case to ensure it doesn’t pick up scuffs.
• With Christmas just around the corner, you might be interested in reading about the top indoor and outdoor Christmas lights .
• Do you work in a dingy space? You should snag an excellent work light to illuminate your workplace .

Now, let’s take a closer look at the best neck and book lights for reading and knitting.

1. Gritin 19 LED USB Reading Light

Gritin 19 LED USB Reading Light

Gritin’s 19 LED USB Reading Light is, quite possibly, the most VFM product on the list. The unit boasts a user-friendly design that clips onto the edges of your book. In doing so, it acts as a miniaturized table lamp and lights up the pages of your book.

The Gritin 19 LED USB Reading light has a lot going for it. Not only is it easy to use, but it is chockablock with a variety of features. For starters, the reading light comes with three color temperature modes, namely Amber Light (1,800K), Mixed Light (3,400K), and White Light (6,000K).

Further, the LED light is affixed to the base via a flexible silicone gooseneck that can be rotated at any angle that you deem fit. You can also prop the light on a flat surface if you’re reading on your desk. Additionally, the light’s 1,200mAh battery can last up to 80 hours, depending on the brightness preset being used. To no one’s surprise, the Gritin 19 LED USB Reading light has amassed a slew of positive reviews, with many buyers citing it as the best reading light they’ve purchased to date.

What We Like

• User-friendly design
• Three different color temperature settings
• Gets reasonably bright

What We Don’t Like

• Per some users, the light’s battery backup could’ve been better

2. Glocusent USB Rechargeable Book Light

Glocusent USB Rechargeable Book Light

Up next is yet another clip-on book light that brings a couple more features to the mix. We are, of course, talking about the Glocusent USB Book Light, which can be snagged in five attractive colors.

To wit, you can purchase the light in Blue, Pure White, Purple, Rose Red, and Soft Green shades. Additionally, Glocusent’s contender comes with five adjustable brightness presets, thereby ensuring buyers don’t have to strain their eyes at night. What’s more, much like Gritin’s offering, the Glocusent USB reading light also gets three color temperature modes.

Interestingly, the company claims that the light’s Amber mode, which offers a color temperature of 1,800K, filters out 99.9 percent of Blue light. That’s not all, as the night light is quite flexible and the light head can be turned left or right. Additionally, you can prop the light head at a 90-degree angle too. We should add that the book light tips the scales at just 1.41oz and ships with a 500mAh battery pack that can last up to 80 hours.

Unsurprisingly, the Glocusent USB Rechargeable Book Light is among the most sought-after reading lights on Amazon, and the gadget has amassed over 10,000 ratings.

• Five brightness settings
• Available in five colors
• Per some users, the light doesn’t stay in position, and it’s not easy to attach either

3. LALAKU LED Neck Reading and Knitting Light

LALAKU LED Neck Reading and Knitting Light

If you tend to sit upright when you’re reading or knitting, you might be interested in the LALAKU LED Light. To that end, the light sports a flexible design and can be holstered around your neck.

The light head can be swiveled and rotated by up to 270 degrees, so you can point it at your sweater or your book whilst knitting or reading. Additionally, you can prop the LALAKU LED light on a flat surface and use it as a makeshift table lamp, too.

The neck light offers three brightness and three color temperature modes. These include the option to project warm light, white light, and a mix of warm and white light. More to the point, the neck light is made up of high-quality silica gel that shouldn’t itch your neck when you’re using it. At the same time, the unit’s 1,800mAh battery can last up to 10 hours off a single charge.

Unsurprisingly, users are quite happy with the LALAKU LED Light’s capabilities. In fact, some buyers commented that the LED light ensured they could see darker colors when crocheting late in the evening . Some others reported that they were able to read a book at a campsite without disturbing others, too, which is excellent.

• Ideal for reading and crocheting
• Light head can be rotated freely
• Made up of skin-friendly materials
• Battery backup could’ve been better

4. Vekkia Rechargeable LED Neck Reading Light

Vekkia Rechargeable LED Neck Reading Light

Vekkia’s neck light looks the part of a neckband-style Bluetooth earbud. As such, the unit wraps around a user’s neck, and it ships with elongated tubes with LEDs affixed on either end.

The neck rest is made up of ultra-soft silicone material, thereby ensuring utmost comfort. In fact, the company cites that their neck reading light doesn’t pull a user’s hair, unlike some competing products. Additionally, the company claims that the neck lamp puts forth a light beam at a narrow-angle.

As such, you can comfortably use the device when you’re seated next to your partner without disturbing them at night. We should also add that the neck light sports three different brightness modes and touts up to an 80-hour battery backup. If anything, we wish the neck light allowed users to change the light’s color temperature.

• Lightweight and flexible design
• Can be used for a variety of tasks
• Long-lasting battery backup
• Doesn’t come different color temperature modes

5. CAT CT7100 Neck Light

CAT CT7100 Neck Light

If you’re looking for a heavy-duty neck light that can be used to read books and keep your hands free when you’re dabbling with machinery, you should get the CAT CT7100 in a heartbeat.

The CAT CT7100 is a rugged and weatherproof neck light that is designed to assist mechanics, plumbers, and aviation techs in their repairs. That being said, the neck light can also be used to read books at night, especially when you’re at a campsite and need a splash of bright light to illuminate your tent as well as the pages of your book.

Notably, the CAT CT7100 can get quite bright at 200 lumens. The neck light comes with four brightness modes and can project as little as 50 lumens if you so choose. Additionally, the neck light’s beam can traverse up to 30 meters! The beam heads can be articulated by up to 70 degrees for a wider throw, and the neck light comes with a 2.5-hour run-time. Rest assured, buyers looking for a heavy-duty and rugged neck light will find much to like about the CT7100.

• Rugged and weatherproof design
• Can get quite bright at 200 lumens
• Battery life could’ve been better

6. Glocusent Upgraded LED Neck Reading Light

Glocusent Upgraded LED Neck Reading Light

Let’s face it – clip-on reading lights can be a bit of a chore. Although they offer a wider spread and illuminate the pages with soft lighting, it can be a task to align them properly with your book. As such, folks over at Glocusent have come up with an Upgraded LED Neck Reading Light that, like Vekkia’s contender, wraps around a user’s neck.

The Glocusent Upgraded LED Neck Reading Light is available in a range of colors – eight, to be precise. As such, you can snag the reading light in trendy hues, such as Posh Grey, Lake Blue, and the works. Additionally, much like its clip-on counterpart, the neck reading light also sports three different color temperature settings.

What’s more, the unit’s amber mode, which puts forth 1,800K light, supposedly blocks 99.99 percent of blue light, too. You can change the brightness setting by sifting through three different presets as well. Notably, the unit comes with a 1,000mAh battery, which, per the brand, should last 20 days if you read 30 minutes daily. All said and done, buyers looking for a lightweight (4.52 oz) and highly functional LED reading light should add the Glocusent Upgraded LED Neck Light to their cart.

• Supports three brightness and color temperature modes
• Can last up to 20 days if used for 30 minutes daily

Let There Be Light!

And, that wraps up our list of the best LED lights for reading and knitting. Off the lot, buyers looking for a weatherproof and durable neck light can side with CAT’s offering. That said, if you’re solely buying a light to read books at night, you can snag Glocusent’s clip-on or neck light, too. Do let us know which neck or book light you opted for in the comments below.

Was this helpful?

Last updated on 03 November, 2023

The above article may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. However, it does not affect our editorial integrity. The content remains unbiased and authentic.

The article above may contain affiliate links which help support Guiding Tech. The content remains unbiased and authentic and will never affect our editorial integrity.

DID YOU KNOW

Prateek Pandey

Prateek is an avid gamer and he has a heap of consoles, both old and new. He has been writing about technology and shooting consumer tech videos for almost six years. He was previously tasked with reviewing gadgets at 91Mobiles and MrPhone. When he's not hyper-focusing on a new RPG or talking about tech, he likes to hit the gym to stay on top of his fitness game.

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Vekkia rechargeable neck reading light – product review

BY Lisa  

|   15 May 2022

If you like to read or write while on holidays, then you are going love Vekkia’s rechargeable neck reading light . I’ve done all the research and testing for you.  

You see I love to write in my travel diary in the evenings before bed. But I’m also mindful about not disturbing others in my room, especially when I’m staying in a backpackers. In the past, I’ve used  

• Maglites that you could stand up like a candle or hang inside the tent  
• F lashlights  
• H eadlamps that I would hang around my neck  
• and the  Mighty Bright book light  with a clip  

My previous lighting devices I brought with me on my travels.

B ut as my Mighty Bright book light finally came to the end of its life, it was time to try something new. I had heard about these neck book lights. Plus a reader asked if I could review a rechargeable book light. So I put forward my plan of utilising my researching and testing skills. And concluded with the following information for you.    

What to watch out for  

I did a thorough research on the internet, for a wide variety of neck reading lights. Mainly by reading about the spec’s and then the product reviews before I made my final decision.  

I noticed there was some common problems that kept arising. You may want to keep the following in mind if you do your own research.  

• 1 The  lights were so bright  it lit up the whole room. Probably not so suitable if travelling on a plane or bus. Lighting up the entire cabin may attract some abuse from other travellers! However, it would be quite useful for walking around dark places, like having your own flashlight.  
• 2 The rechargeable  batteries didn’t last  as long as they proclaimed.  
• 3 The battery compartment on the neckband  felt too bulky and heavy  when resting on the back of the neck.  
• 4 The flexible band  started to fray  at the connection to the battery compartment after a short period of use.  

So after taking all this into account, I chose the brand that had the least amount of negative reviews. Plus, the one that had the least brightness. It’s important to me that I don’t light up the whole plane or disturb sleeping companions.  

The winner was the Vekkia rechargeable neck reading light , with a 4.7/5 rating on Amazon.    

The spec’s  

Main spec's/features.

• Weighs 102gr (3.6oz)  
• Batteries and USB charging cable included.  
• LED light bulb on each arm – 2 watts.  
• Has a thin buckle rope, if you need to control how close the arms should sit.  
• 3 colour temperatures – Warm light, white light and mixed light   Adjusted by a long click on the push button.  
• 3 brightness levels – soft, bright and luminous.   Adjusted by a short click on the push buttons.   Has a thin buckle rope, if you need to control how close the arms should sit.   Has a thin buckle rope, if you need to control how close the arms should sit.  

My experience using the Vekkia Neck Light  

• Feels so light to wear around the neck. Don’t feel it all if its sitting on clothing or wrapped under the collar. Obviously, you can feel it when it’s sitting on your bare skin but there is no heaviness at all.  
• With its 3 levels of brightness and 3 types of light temperatures, you can ensure you don’t disturb others around you.  
• The brightness levels are more than adequate. I found most times I only had to turn on one arm only, especially when its on the brightest setting.  
• I was able to plug the USB cable into my Samsung phone plug and it took 90 minutes to fully charge.  
• The product feels sturdy and good quality. So far, the flexible arms still maintain shape and havent’ frayed.  
• On three occasions, I found the Vekkia in my bag with the lights turned on. The lights are activated by a push button rather than a slider. So it must have come in contact with other items in my bag and pressed against the button.  
• I didn’t need to bring the recharger with me on short holidays as the battery lasts a long time. Plus I didn’t do more than 20 hours of reading time. I do hope you take some time to experience the sights, food and culture too!  
• I noticed that on the initial charge the lights dimmed by 50% in the last hour of use, before it completely cut off. Every recharge thereafter, I no longer got a warning. The lights simply cut off immediately when the battery was dead.  

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How long does the charge last!  

When I received the product, it was already charged. Hard to determine if it was fully charged. But with that initial charge, it lasted for 21.6 hours of reading time.  

Below are the results of further testings I did. These tests are based on using one lamp only on the brightest setting.  

Therefore, you can see that the initial charge lasted the longest, even though the lights were frequently switched on/off. But if you revert back to longer use each time, you can almost get 20 hours usage again.   

Keep in mind though, as these results are based on using one lamp, the battery wont last as long if you used both lamps.  

The pro's and con's

• Versatile   – use for reading, working, crafting or simple night walks.
• Extremely  light  and comfortable to wear.  
• So  portable   that you can fold it to fit into a small or handbag.  
• Made of  good quality  material, therefore its sturdy to use.  
• Flexible soft rubber arms  – can position it to point directly where you want it to and it holds. You can even bend it to shape it like a desk lamp.  
• With up to  9 different lighting modes  (temperature and brightness), it adjusts easily to ensure you don’t disturb people around you.  
• Don’t have to clip  onto a book or pages.
• As the  battery lasts a long time  with one charge, its one less recharging cable to bring with you on the shorter holidays  
• They claim the neck light has a  life span of 1000 cycles . No more wasting money on batteries.  
• The on/off push button can be easily depressed by other items in your bag when resting against it. However, it can be avoided if packed well (with the buttons facing inwards) or placed in its own case.  

Curled up the Vekkia neck light and placed into my old Bose headphone case.

Watch the video review by tapping on the image below

Click to play

Is the Vekkia neck reading light worth buying?  

Product rating summary.

I was very happy with the quality of the product and lighting ability. Would have given battery life a 5 if there was consistency in length of charge from first to second use. 

light quality

battery life

So in conclusion, I highly recommend the Vekkia neck reading light .   

It makes the perfect gift idea for the traveller in your family or circle of friends. It is so useful in many situations. Home based activates such as crafting, writing or looking for dropped items in nooks and crannies. But also for  travel by plane, train or if you love to go camping   

It’s so light and robust which makes it perfect for travelling.  

How will you use your neck book light?  

Vekkia rechargeable neck reading light – product review

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The 7 Best Book Lights Of 2023 Reviews and Buying Guide

• January 9, 2023

Book lights are the perfect option – to read to book or work on a laptop in bed, without disturbing your partner.

Some of these models are specially developed for reading experience at night. While others come with more versatile features.

In this article, we have provided a list of Best Book Lights after carefully analyzing almost all products available in the market.

The three main factors we considered while analyzing these products are…

• Book Light Type

They are available in two models – clip-on book lights can be hooked to the books while neck lights. If you want the light to directly fall on the book, the neck light is the best option.

• Battery Life

Book lights are either powered by rechargeable batteries or AAA batteries. Right option among these two options depends on user preference.

Book lights have a warranty period of 3 to 12 months. The rule of thumb is to choose a model with the maximum warranty period. For detailed information on how to choose book lights, we recommend reading our “Buying Guide” .

Haven’t got time? Then you can choose any option provided in the below list of Best Book Lights.

Best Book Lights Of 2023

Also check –

• Best black light bulbs
• Best black light fixtures
• Best disco ball lights
• Best edc flashlights

7 Best Book Lights Of 2023 Reviews

1. glocusent book light .

Next on our list is a very unique and innovatively designed booklight. The Glocusent LED reading light is more of a neck based reading light. It’s “around the neckwear” design places the light’s ends on either side with 2 LED beads that can shine on light forward. The light is available in two colours namely pink and blue variants.

Top Features:

• Unique design that lets you wear the light around your neck but without any irritation or hassle. Even the build of the light is very much light in weight that does not even let you know that there is something on your neck.
• Comes with a highly bright LED light on two sides of the opening and with 3 different colour intensities. One is the yellow warm white light with 3000 k luminosity and the other is a simple warm white with a 4000 k luminosity. The third one is a cool daylight white with 6000 k luminosity.
• Each of the colours can be switched and adjusted to 2 levels each from low and high. Thus you would be having a total of 6 brightness levels with you to switch from.
• USB based rechargeable battery. The USB comes with a modern Type C port and is much more compatible than the old Micro USB port.
• The light has an immensely large battery of 1,000 mAH. Once fully charged, you can use the light for a massive 80 hours whole on every single head.
• No flicker and the warm yellow light acts as a blue light filter to prevent any damage to your eyes due to the light.
• The neck design is ergonomic and does not weigh you down while reading/wearing.
• Partner friendly design lets you redirect the light’s beam angle to 90 degrees. This will give you a personal space with the light’s beam and not cause any disturbance to people around you.

Warranty: This light comes with an 18 month (or 1.5 years) long manufacturer’s warranty from the date of purchase and also great customer support too.

• None to mention specifically

Buy Now From Amazon

2. Hooga Book Light

Next on our list is a single-mode, multi brightness-adjustable LED clip on reading light. The Amber clip-on light by Hooga comes with a basic clip-on design like the Perfect Daylight but has a much low luminosity as this light has been designed primarily to be eye and reader-friendly.

• Simple clip-on design with a tight clip that can hold on to edged tables and thin papers as well with great strength.
• 4 bright LEDs studded onto the light head for higher capacity of brightness.
• Can be switched between 3 levels of brightness for high beam, medium beam and low beam lighting FROM 25%, 50% and 100% brightness settings (17.5, 35 and 70 lumens of change respectively)
• All levels adhere to amber hue luminosity lighting of 1600 kelvin warmth. This is about 99.94% free from the blue light spectrum and thus promotes healthy eyesight and prevents any eye trouble and promotes melatonin growth.
• Has a very long 7 inches large gooseneck. This can be adjusted in any flexible way to shed light in any direction you want it to.
• Comes with a very large battery of 1,200 mAH capacity that does not flicker a bit. USB compatible rechargeable, once fully charged, the light can give you a massive 30 hours of lighting capacity.
• Comes with a 36 inches large USB cable for charging and a full charge takes about 4 hours of time.
• Light in weight as it weighs just about 2.5 ounces and the light itself is made out of durable material for longevity.

Warranty: There is no warranty on the product but it does offer a 30 days return window from the date of purchase

• Lack of warranty
• Not so ideal for high beam time light reading

3. Vekkia Book Light 

Yet another neck light with a design that is much in the lines of the Glocusent neck reading light, the Vekkia is also a neck light with a 4 LED studded frontline. It too has its lights shining out of two barrels on two sides

• Handsfree operation design that lets you wear the light by the neck. The two LED outlets on either side of the light let you have a dual pointer to read efficiently.
• Both sides of the neckband are also flexible that lets you either hug it close to the neck or leave it freely for breathability (thanks to the soft and padded silicon surface)
• The light heads create a personal space with a 90-degree spread that does not disturb your partner if they are asleep or beside you.
• Comes with a decent 700 mAH lithium-ion battery that has a 1000 cycles life which gives you about 6 to 10 hours of reading time without a need to charge. While this may not be large, this is good enough for home-usage.
• Comes with a standard length Micro USB cable for charging too.
• Both the lights have 3 level brightness. One is a flashlight with wide-area daylight beam, one is a full bright and wide light and another is a warm read-only type light.

Warranty: The device comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty and it also has a 30 days money-back guarantee window.

• Could have had higher battery life suited for travelling too

4. Lepower Book Light

Though the Lepower reading light is of a clip-on model, its headlight’s conventional shape and its tighter and tougher clip make it stand out from the rest of the clip-based lights available. This tough clip lets it stand not just on the thinnest of paper but also on the thickest of desks too (of a considerable thickness of course)

• Simple clamp to fix a model that can clamp onto anything of the width 2.36 inches in size.
• The arm and the lamp holder both have a free angle adjustment that lets you place the light’s head in any angle of choice for better viewing.
• The 14.96 inches long chord can be moved about in 360 degrees and moulded into any shape you feel comfortable for viewing.
• The bulb of the lamp has a unique circular ring type shape that has the ability to illuminate on all sides.
• Has three lighting options. Warm light, mid white and daylight white light.
• Comes with 2 switches for the chord to switch between dim and full bright mode of beams.
• Rechargeable battery that comes with a dual prong USB AC adapter of 5 feet length. Can be plugged in and used on with the regular charging ports and points
• The light is available in three colours, namely black, silver and pure white.

Warranty : The device comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty from the date of purchase.

• No proper mention about the battery capacity

5. Energizer Book Light

Top Features

• Simple clip-on design with a flexible neck and built-in over-sized spring clip allows you to fix it on Kindles, books, clipboards, and visors.
• Advanced LED technology that recreates natural reading conditions without causing any eye irritation.
• Delivers an ideal beam size of 4 meters that is broad enough to cover the book but also narrow enough for privacy.
• Adjustable neck allows you to direct the light at any angle and provide clear visibility while reading.
• Provides 14 lumens of light.
• Has a run time of up to 25 hours that is perfect for binge reading and travel reading.
• Compact and portable so that you are not just confined to your reading room.
• Sturdy yet lightweight.
• Powered by 2 Energizer CR2032 that is included in the package.

Warranty: No information is specified regarding the warranty or return window of the book light.

• Brightness level is too high
• Difficult to replace the batteries

6. Perfect Day Book Light

First on our list is the Perfect Day LED light, one of the highest-rated and reviewed Booklights. A visually appealing yet simplistic design, the Perfect Daylight is rechargeable and comes with standard LED lights.

• The head of the light comes studded with 12 Eye friendly LED lights with enough brightness
• Has 3 brightness modes for all time reading. One is the daylight white mode with 4000 K luminosity and the other is the soft white with a 3000 k luminosity. For the night time reading, you can switch to the soft white brightness mode of 2700 k luminosity.
• Built-in rechargeable battery and a USB support port. A USB cable is also provided for the charging
• On a full charge, the light can give out the brightness for about 60 whole hours making it a great tool for holidays, camping excursions etc.,
• The gooseneck of the light is adjustable in 360 degrees. You can fold and mould it in any direction so the head is tilted towards the illuminating surface.
• A sturdy and durable clip that can easily be hooked onto any edged surface, book or even the thinnest of the papers as well.
• Very light in weight and portable too with no flickering problems. Can be folded and placed in a pocket easily

Warranty: It does not have any warranty but it does have incredibly fast customer support and the company provides a 30 days money-back guarantee as well.

• No warranty only return window

7. Skymore Book Light

Finally on our list is the Skymore LED Booklight with a circular ring-shaped bulb/ beam outlet. It has a similar design schema as the Lepower booklight but this one only has 2 brightness settings. Interestingly enough, the light can also be turned to be used as a magnifying glass too.

• Clam fix onto any tables or books with great ease thanks to the 2.36 inches large clamping clip.
• Free angle adjustment to the 14.96 inches long chord. You can move it freely about 360 degrees for comfortable viewing
• A unique and circular ring-shaped 7 watts bulb that illuminates just about in all directions for a better spread of the light without disturbing any other spots.
• Can switch between 2 lighting colour options. Cool daylight white (normal) and Warm yellow-white (for night time and comfortable eyes).
• USB compatible and comes with a 5 feel long wire that can be plugged into an AC Adapter, Laptop, power bank etc.,
• Interesting magnifying glass function as well. All you need to do is turn off the light and use the convex lens on top of the lamp. Useful for observations, tattoo zoom-ins etc.,

Warranty: No warranty is available on the product and no return window as well

• Though highly rated, it has no warranty nor returns window

Quick Buying Guide To Pick The Best Book Light

While purchasing a book light, you need to consider several other parameters that can create a good reading experience. Below are the different parameters you need to look for in a book light.

1. Brightness

Most book lights have LED chips with adjustable brightness levels. So, you can adjust their brightness according to the ambient light. Apart from this, book lights have different light colors. The popular option is 1600k, also referred to as “Amber light”. With the adjustable feature, you can choose any color in the range of 1600k to 5000k.

Furthermore, the LED chips do not produce any blue light and the light does not flicker. Blue light is known to cause eye strain. Additionally, if the light flickers, it will cause a glaring effect while reading.

There are three different modes of brightness depending on their color temperature,

Daylight White

In this mode, you can get a maximum lumination of 6700 kelvin. It is ideal for night reading. But not so great for day-time reading. Sometimes, the daylight white also comes in low lumination for day-time reading purposes.

The cool white mode has a lower lumination within the range of 3000-4100 kelvin. It provides a balance between the daylight and warm white modes. You can use it in semi-dark places or indoors during day time.

Warm white mode produces lumination less than 2700 kelvin. The light has a yellowish shade and is safe for your eyes. Furthermore, it promotes melanin secretion when you use it during the evening time.

Note: If you want a book light for night reading before sleep, go with warm-colored bulbs. Cool-colored bulbs can be too bright.

2. Power Source

Most light bulbs either use rechargeable batteries or replaceable AAA batteries as their power source. Some models also work on solar power. But they are not efficient.

The latest light bulbs come with a USB charging cable which can be very handy. Almost everyone has a laptop. So, you do not have to search for a power outlet to charge your light bulb. You can just plug it into the USB port of your laptop .

3. Style and Design

The design of a light bulb is not only for its aesthetic value, but also increases your comfort level. The light bulbs come in different styles and designs.

The standard clip-on design allows you to hook it to your book. You do not have to remove it until you complete the book. On the other hand, the wearable neck design allows you to read different pieces of paper without any effort. Additionally, the light falls directly on the page creating a better reading experience.

The other popular styles include bending and free-standing. The bending style allows you to move it easily. Contrarily, the free-standing design is ideal if you have a fixed location in your house for reading purposes.

4. Sturdy Clip and Flexible Neck Clip

When opting for a clip-on design, ensure that the metal clip is strong enough to hook to the book or table. The clip should hold firmly without shaking. Additionally, the clip’s neck should be flexible so that you can easily adjust it. The gooseneck clips can bend at 3600. It can stand firmly at any angle and direct the light to the book.

5. Bulb Type

It is one of the most overlooked features while purchasing a light bulb. A majority of the light bulbs come with LED bulbs. But some models come with halogen bulbs. We recommend you go with LEDs as they are energy efficient.

6. Additional features

Apart from the standard features of light bulbs, you should also consider their extra features. Some models have an auto shut-down feature. When you set the timer, the light bulb will shut down automatically. The auto shut-down feature is great if you have a habit of sleeping while reading.

Some models also have scratch-resistant features. They can withstand wear and tear. So, look into the additional features that provide extra value for money.

7. Portability

Most book lights are lightweight and have a small compact size considering their use. If you have a reading table, then this feature is not important. But, if you are someone who sits and reads in different places, then you should give special consideration to this.

The book light should be foldable, lightweight, and small size so that you can easily move it. Anything above 500 grams will make it difficult for you to carry.

8. Ease of Use

The book light should be easy to operate. The power button and other controls should be easily visible. If the light bulb has any other features, it should also be easy to operate.

9. Warranty

When you purchase the light bulbs on Amazon or any other eCommerce platform, you generally have a 30-day return window period. Post that, you can not return the item for a refund or replacement.

So, you must purchase a light bulb that has a good warranty period. As stated above, most lightbulbs come with a warranty period of 3 to 12 months. When it comes to the warranty period, the more the better.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ans: No, most book lights do not have blue lights. Blue lights are known to cause eye strain. Hence, book lights do not use them. Additionally, book lights also do not flicker that can cause a glaring effect while reading.

Ans: The best LED color light depends on your ambient light. If you are reading in the dark, we recommend you daylight white. On the other hand, for semi-dark and day-time reading purposes, you can go with the cool white and warm white colors.

Ans: Cool white is better for semi-dark ambient light. If you are sitting indoors and reading during the day time, the cool white will give you good visibility. On the other hand, if you are reading in bright light, you can use warm white. Additionally, warm white promotes the secretion of melanin in your eyes.

Ans: Your book light should have a lumen count within the range of 1600 to 5000 kelvin. Lights that have lumens less than 2700k are safe for the eyes. They are known as warm white. They have a yellowish color and promote melanin growth when you use them during the evenings.

Ans: The daylight bulbs can have lumens up to 5000k. They have a slight bluish color. If you use them excessively, they can cause eye strain. Additionally, they can cause eye problems such as cataracts and pterygium.

To sum it up, the Perfect Day Book Light should have enough battery life and provide good lighting. It should have at least 24 hours of battery capacity.

For good lighting, the daylight white color works well during night reading. The cool white will provide a good reading experience when you are reading in a semi-dark place. Lastly, the warm white color will serve well if you are reading in a decent ambient light environment.

Depending on whether you have a stationery reading table or move around while reading, you can opt for either a standard clip-on design or a wearable neck design.

If you have any queries or doubts, let us know using the comments section. Our team of experts will help you out. You can also share your thoughts and opinions in the comments box.

Related Posts:

• The 9 Best Book Scanners Reviews & Buying Guide
• Which Device is Best to Purchase for Reading Kindle or iPad?
• Audible Plus vs Premium Plus
• How to Put Outdoor Lights On a Timer?
• 2700K vs 3000K Lights-The Differences To Choose Easily
• Best Excel VBA Books Reviews 2024

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Review of Beam n Read LED 3 Hands-Free Travel & Reading Light

By kristofer brozio  •  may 21, 2017.

• Specifications and Features

ASF Lightware Solutions Beam n Read LED 3 Hands-Free Travel & Reading Light; for Kindle, Power Outages & More; Includes 2 blue-light-blocking Relaxation Filters; Batteries Last 100 Hours

When you need personal light, this hands-free light delivers features and practical usefulness unmatched by other portable lights: wide & bright light from 3 LEDs that lights up 2 book pages, 2 clip-on Relaxation Filters, extra long battery life, & optional USB Power Kit. Read Everything: It’s a true reading light that works with all printed books, Kindles and other eReaders (whether naked, skinned, or covered) PLUS newspapers, magazines, newsletters, loose documents, and other items that can’t support a clip-on light. Called the “best personal reading light we have come across” by a major travel blog. Included are two 2 special Relaxation Filters that snap-on the light: BNR Orange for a softer, warmer light that blocks blue light (especially useful when reading in bed); BNR Red to block blue light and reduce ambient light for sensitive bed partners, or to help maintain night vision when switching between lighted and dark conditions. Standard alkaline AA batteries (not included) last an extra long 100 hours, far longer than flashlights and clip-on lights resulting in a lower cost to use (and fewer batteries in the trash). The longer battery runtime than other lights is especially valuable during a power outage & when traveling. This light is still bright when others have gone dim. Worn around the neck, there’s no need to shift it when reading paperbacks. It’s great for reading, crafts, travel, & walking in dim or dark places such as an attic or around the house during a power outage. Use it for writing journals, working, camping, and changing diapers at night. A product review sums it up saying, “An item you weren’t sure you needed quickly becomes indispensable.” Optional accessories include USB/AC and DC power adapters and a kit with 3 clip-on magnifiers.

Price: $19.95 ( from Amazon at time of review )

Let’s start with a video unboxing and then move on:

The Beam N Read 3 LED kits comes packaged well in an attractive box. Inside of the box you’ll find the Beam N Read itself and the accessories in a plastic tray and the user manual is on the side.

The Beam N Read has three LEDs in it that produce the light, they’re under a hood that helps direct the light onto your book or other surface. The Beam N Read body is about 3.25 x 2.5 x .75 inches in dimensions and it seems fairly well made really. Yes it’s plastic buy most things are so that’s fine by me.

The Beam N Read uses four AA batteries or you can use rechargeable batteries.

The top of the light is just plain black but you can decorate it if you want to with stickers or whatever.  There’s an elastic cored attached to it that is also adjustable for comfort and fit. At the very back edge of the housing is a small hole that can be used for charging rechargeable batteries but you’ll need to buy the charger accessory.

The Beam n Read turns on by just flipping the light up but it can be positioned at three different angle while on. The three LEDs are more than bright enough to light up a book you’re reading or something else you might be working on.

The filters are just clear colored plastic that snap onto the front of the light. The orange filters softens light and blocks blue light while the red blocks blue light as well but it’s better for reading or using around other people that might be sleeping as not to disturb them and it also stops or helps with night blindness. They seem to work fine, they do just snap on and off easily.

This is one of those products that I’m not exactly sure about, I do read but having something like this around my neck isn’t quite comfortable, but that’s just my opinion.

I have used this for things other than reading though, it’s good for doing small project where you might need extra light. I have it hanging around my neck while I’m sitting at my desk and working with small things. It also works just fine sitting on my desk directing light at an object.

So this in one of those things that I might not use for it’s intended use as I think it’s more useful for other things and in other ways.

It does seem well made and the strap is soft and elastic and it’s adjustable.

Pros: +Seems well made +Multiple uses +Bright enough for most uses

Cons: -A bit on the expensive side

Disclosure: This product was given to me for review by the company for review purposes only for free or at a discounted price.

To learn more about our review policy please visit this page HERE .

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• Travel Essentials & Accessories

8 Best Travel Reading Glasses for 2024

Published: September 5, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Mimi Goss

• Tech & Gear
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips
• Travel Accessories

Traveling is a thrilling adventure, but it often comes with the challenge of finding the perfect reading glasses that are convenient for both your eyes and your journey. As an expert content writer, I am delighted to introduce you to the "8 Best Travel Reading Glasses for 2023." In this article, we will explore a carefully curated selection of top-notch reading glasses specifically designed to enhance your travel experience. Whether you're exploring bustling cities or immersing yourself in the tranquility of nature, these travel reading glasses will ensure optimal sight and comfort, allowing you to fully enjoy every page of your favorite book while on the go.

Jump to Review

Compact Folding Reading Glasses 2 Pair Set

This product has a rating of A. * What does this rating mean?

Overall Score : 8.2/10

The Reading Glasses 2 Pair Black and Gunmetal Readers Compact Folding Glasses for Reading for Men and Women is a convenient set of reading glasses that are perfect for both men and women. The set includes a pair of black and gunmetal glasses, providing options to match your style. The compact folding design makes it easy to carry them with you wherever you go, and the set of 2 ensures that you always have a pair handy. The glasses are well-crafted with high-quality design, ensuring durability. They come with a lightweight plastic case for easy storage. The glasses have received positive reviews for their convenience and value, with customers praising their compact size and decent quality.

Key Features

• Unisex Folding Reading Glasses for Men and Women
• Set of Black and Gunmetal
• Convenient Set of 2 means you'll have a pair handy wherever you are. Keep a pair in your favorite reading spots
• High Quality Design Glasses Well crafted for long lasting durability.
• Lightweight Plastic Case included

Specifications

• Color: Bundle: Set of Black and Gunmetal With 2 Cases
• Dimension: 5.00Lx5.00Wx0.70H
• Size: 50 mm
• Convenient set of 2
• Compact folding design for easy carrying
• Well-crafted with high-quality design
• Comes with a lightweight plastic case
• Nose pads are a little hard
• Some pairs may have defects
• Glasses may become loose over time
• Rubber tips at the end of the arms not glued on

The Reading Glasses 2 Pair Black and Gunmetal Readers Compact Folding Glasses for Reading for Men and Women are a great value for those in need of convenient reading glasses. With their compact folding design and set of 2, you’ll always have a pair handy wherever you go. The glasses are well-crafted and durable, ensuring long-lasting use. While some minor flaws like hard nose pads and loose hinges may be present, they do not significantly impact the overall functionality of the glasses. If you’re looking for an affordable and practical reading glasses solution, these are definitely worth considering.

Feather-Light ThinOptics Reading Glasses

ThinOptics Reading Glasses are feather-light and made with high-quality materials for optimal comfort. Their shatterproof lenses provide clear vision, and they come with a convenient keychain case for easy storage and portability. The glasses are thin and light enough to be carried in a pocket or attached to a shirt, making them perfect for travel. The case may be too thin and easily misplaced, and there may be some glare on the outer edges of the lenses. Overall, ThinOptics Reading Glasses are a great choice for those looking for lightweight and compact reading glasses.

• Comfortable and lightweight design
• Shatterproof lenses made of high-quality materials
• Uses same lens material as high-end prescription glasses
• Comes with a keychain case for easy storage and portability
• Color: Rectangle Red / Regular Case
• Dimension: 3.74Lx1.97Wx0.59H
• Feather-light and thin design
• Clear and high-quality lenses
• Convenient keychain case for storage and portability
• Case may be easily misplaced
• Some glare on the outer edges of the lenses

ThinOptics Reading Glasses are the perfect solution for those who value comfort and portability. Their lightweight design and high-quality lenses make them a great choice for travel or everyday use. While the case may be a bit thin and prone to misplacement, the convenience of having the glasses attached to a keychain outweighs this drawback. The clear vision provided by the lenses and the absence of any discomfort on the nose make ThinOptics Reading Glasses a top pick for those in need of reading glasses. Despite some concerns about sturdiness, the overall positive reviews and the excellent reading experience make ThinOptics Reading Glasses a highly recommended product.

ThinOptics Keychain Case + Reading Glasses

Overall Score : 8.5/10

Introducing ThinOptics Keychain Case + Reading Glasses – the ultimate accessory for reading on the go. These lightweight and portable reading glasses are designed to fit comfortably on your nose and come with a handy keychain case to ensure that you always have them with you. The shatterproof lenses provide clear and sharp vision, while the Nitinol bridge offers flexibility and durability. With a sleek black frame and silver case, these reading glasses are both stylish and practical. Whether you're dining out, reading a menu, or signing documents, ThinOptics Keychain Case + Reading Glasses are the perfect companion for all your reading needs.

• Designed for comfort and grip
• Shatterproof and optical-grade polycarbonate lenses
• Flexible and durable Nitinol bridge
• Fits the majority of noses
• Includes convenient keychain case
• Color: Black Frames / Silver Case
• Dimension: 3.74Lx0.20Wx1.97H
• Size: 44 mm
• Lightweight and portable design
• Provides clear and sharp vision
• Convenient keychain case for easy storage
• Flexible and comfortable fit
• 30-day money-back fit guarantee
• May feel a bit small for some users
• Lenses can be tricky to put back in the case

ThinOptics Keychain Case + Reading Glasses offer a practical and stylish solution for reading on the go. With their lightweight design and convenient keychain case, you’ll never have to worry about forgetting your reading glasses again. The shatterproof lenses and flexible Nitinol bridge provide durability and comfort, and the adjustable fit ensures that they will work for the majority of users. While they may not be the most comfortable option for extended wear, they are perfect for quick reading needs. Overall, ThinOptics Keychain Case + Reading Glasses are a highly recommended accessory for anyone who wants to have their reading glasses always within reach.

Compact Reading Glasses with Portable Case

The EYEGUARD Classic Spring Hinges Readers are a perfect travel companion for those needing reading glasses on the go. With its ultra thin and compact design, these unisex glasses easily fit in the included portable clip aluminum tube case. The lightweight metal frame and acrylic anti-scratched lens ensure durability, while the comfort spring arms and Dura-Tight Screws provide a secure and comfortable fit. These glasses are FDA registered and meet ANSIZ80.3 standard for quality assurance. With a lens width of 45mm, nose bridge width of 20mm, and temple length of 135mm, these reading glasses offer a comfortable fit for most individuals. The EYEGUARD Classic Spring Hinges Readers are available in a 2 Pack Blue color option. Overall, these glasses are stylish, convenient, and affordable, making them a great choice for travelers in need of reading glasses.

• Unisex ultra thin and compact reading glasses
• Portable clip aluminum tube case
• Lightweight half metal frame with acrylic anti-scratched lens
• Comfort spring arms and Dura-Tight Screws
• Lens width: 45mm, Nose bridge width: 20mm, Temple length: 135mm
• FDA registered and meet ANSIZ80.3 standard
• Color: 2 Pack Blue
• Size: 2 Count (Pack of 1)
• Stylish and elegant design
• Discreet and compact case
• Almost weightless and comfortable to wear
• Good value for the price
• Misleading ad regarding pair quantity

The EYEGUARD Classic Spring Hinges Readers are an excellent choice for travelers in need of portable reading glasses. With their compact design and stylish appearance, they offer both functionality and fashion. The included aluminum tube case provides convenience and protection, making it easy to carry these glasses wherever you go. The lightweight frame and comfortable fit ensure long-lasting comfort, while the durable construction ensures they can withstand daily use. The only downside is the misleading advertisement regarding the pair quantity, as some customers received only one pair instead of the advertised two. However, overall, these glasses offer great quality, affordability, and convenience, making them a recommended choice for travelers.

Missfive Folding Reading Glasses

The Missfive Ultra Thin Folding Reading Glasses are a convenient and stylish accessory for travelers. These glasses are designed to be ultra-thin and lightweight, making them easy to carry wherever you go. The frame is made of durable TR90 metal, while the temples are made of stainless steel for added strength. The glasses come with a flat hard case that can be easily slipped into pockets or purses, or stuck to the back of a phone case. The glasses have a credit card size and can be used to read small print while on the go. With a 1.5x magnification, these glasses are perfect for reading menus, texts, and more. They are available in a stylish black color and come with a 90-day money-back guarantee and a 365-day manufacturing defect service.

• Credit card size for carrying everywhere
• Healthy material
• Creative practical design
• You will get
• 100% WORRY-FREE
• Color: Black+protective Hard Case lens Height 20mm
• Ultra-thin and lightweight design
• Durable TR90 metal frame
• Stylish and portable flat hard case
• May slide on some faces
• Earpieces tend to leave smudges on the lens

The Missfive Ultra Thin Folding Reading Glasses are a practical and fashionable accessory for travelers. With their compact and lightweight design, they can be easily carried anywhere, ensuring that you always have reading glasses when you need them. The durable TR90 metal frame and stainless steel temples make them a long-lasting option. The flat hard case not only protects the glasses but also adds a touch of style. These glasses are perfect for reading small print on menus, shopping information, or text messages. However, they may slide on some faces, and the earpieces may leave smudges on the lens. Overall, these folding reading glasses offer convenience and functionality for travelers.

OWTXIS Blue Light Blocking Reading Glasses – Portable and Stylish

The OWTXIS 2 Pack Blue Light Blocking Reading Glasses are a must-have accessory for travelers. These compact reading glasses are made of high-quality metal material, ensuring durability and comfort. They are portable and can easily fit in your purse or shirt pocket, making them convenient to carry around while you travel. The glasses come with a clip hard case that can protect them from damage. The lenses have blue light filter and UV400 protection, making them suitable for reading, watching TV, gaming, or using a computer or mobile phone. Overall, these reading glasses are a stylish and practical accessory for those on the go.

• High-quality metal material
• Portable and lightweight
• Includes clip hard case
• Blue light filter and UV400 lenses
• Satisfaction Assurance by OWTXIS
• Color: 2 Pack (Black+gunmetal)
• Durable and comfortable
• Convenient and portable
• Protective clip hard case
• Blue light and UV protection
• Easy to scratch
• Case can be difficult to use
• Nose guards can fall off

The OWTXIS 2 Pack Blue Light Blocking Reading Glasses are a great travel accessory for anyone in need of reading glasses. They are compact, durable, and stylish. The included clip hard case provides added protection, and the blue light filter and UV400 lenses make them versatile for various activities. However, users should be cautious about potential scratching and the usability of the case. Overall, these reading glasses offer excellent value for the price and would be a wonderful addition to any traveler’s bag.

Viseng Slim Mini Metal Reading Glasses

Overall Score : 8/10

The Viseng 2 Pack Slim Mini Metal Reading Glasses are the perfect travel companion for those who need reading glasses. These pen-sized glasses are small and convenient, making them easy to carry with you wherever you go. The lightweight and sturdy metal rim ensures durability and prevents breakage, while the A-grade lenses offer clear and precise vision. With a classic design, these glasses are suitable for switching between reading and normal vision. The glasses come in various lens strengths and are scratch, smudge, and impact resistant. They also come with a 90-day money-back guarantee and lifetime warranty. Overall, these glasses are excellent quality for the money and a great investment for reading on the go.

• SMALL AND CONVENIENT – Pen-Sized Reading Glasses
• QUALITY FRAME AND LENS – Lightweight and Sturdy Metal Rim
• CLASSIC DESIGN – Cute and small enough in lens coverage
• CHOOSE YOUR LENS – Choose your lens strength
• SERVICE – 90-day money-back guarantee and lifetime warranty
• Color: A:2 Pack（black、gray）
• Size: 1 Count (Pack of 1)
• Excellent quality for the money
• Small and lightweight
• Perfect for travel
• Very compact
• Great price
• The nose piece is not comfortable
• Not practical
• Look cute but not very practical

The Viseng 2 Pack Slim Mini Metal Reading Glasses are a convenient and durable accessory for those who need reading glasses. With their portable and compact design, they are perfect for travel. The glasses offer excellent quality for the money and provide clear and precise vision. They may not be the most comfortable option for everyone, and some users found them to be too small, but considering their compactness and affordability, they are highly recommended. Whether you need to read product labels, menus, or files, these reading glasses will be a reliable and practical companion.

EYEGUARD Portable Reading Glasses with Case

The EYEGUARD Reading Glasses with Portable Case is a great accessory for travelers who need reading glasses on the go. With a compact design and a slim profile, these pocket readers are perfect for both men and women. The glasses feature a lightweight PC frame with a fashionable metal temple, ensuring both durability and style. The anti-scratched lens provides clear vision for reading. Each set comes with two pairs of glasses, a matching hard case, and a cleaning cloth. The dimensions of the glasses are 1.97-inch lens width, 1.02-inch lens height, 0.67-inch nose bridge width, and 5.12-inch arm length. These glasses are FDA registered and meet ANSIZ80.3 standard. Customers have praised the small size and convenience of the glasses and case, making them easy to carry in a pocket or small purse. Some users have reported issues with the durability of the glasses, but overall, these reading glasses are highly recommended for their portability and functionality.

• 2 Pair great value, ultra slim and pocket reading glasses
• Light weight PC frame combined with fashion design metal temple, anti-scratched lens
• Coming with matching hard case and cleaning cloth
• Dimension: 4.92Lx1.97Wx0.67H
• Size: 6 Piece Set
• Compact and slim design for easy portability
• Lightweight and durable PC frame
• Comes with a matching hard case and cleaning cloth
• Some customers have reported issues with durability

The EYEGUARD Reading Glasses with Portable Case is a convenient and compact solution for travelers needing reading glasses. With its lightweight and slim design, it is easy to carry these glasses in a pocket or small purse. The included hard case ensures their protection during travel. While some users have experienced durability issues, overall, these glasses are highly recommended for their portability and functionality.

Buyer's Guide: Travel Reading Glasses

Key considerations.

• Prescription : Check if your reading glasses are available in your desired prescription strength.
• Foldable Design : Look for glasses that can be easily folded and stowed away in a compact case for convenient travel.
• Lightweight Construction : Opt for lightweight frames to minimize the strain on your nose and ears during extended periods of use.
• Scratch Resistance : Ensure the glasses have a protective coating to resist scratches and maintain clear vision.
• Adjustable Fit : Look for glasses with adjustable nose pads or temple arms for a customizable fit that guarantees comfort.
• Lens Quality : Prioritize lenses that offer clear vision, distortion-free viewing, and provide adequate protection from harmful UV rays.

Types of Travel Reading Glasses

• Full-frame Glasses :
• These glasses have lenses with a consistent prescription throughout the entire lens area.
• Ideal for individuals who require the same magnification for both close-up tasks and distance viewing.
• Half-frame Glasses :
• These glasses have lenses that only cover the lower part of the visual field, allowing for unobstructed upper distance vision.
• Suitable for individuals who need to alternate between reading and looking up frequently.
• Bifocals feature two distinct lens zones: one for near vision at the bottom and another for distance vision on top.
• Convenient for individuals with presbyopia who need simultaneous correction for both close-up and distance vision.
• Progressive Multifocal Glasses :
• These glasses have lenses with a gradual transition from the distance correction at the top to the near correction at the bottom.
• Great for individuals who require different degrees of magnification for various distances.

Features to Look For

• Non-Slip Grip : Consider glasses with rubberized temple tips and nose pads to prevent them from sliding down your face.
• High-Quality Hinges : Look for glasses with durable hinges to ensure they can withstand frequent folding and unfolding.
• Portable Case : Find glasses that come with a sturdy and compact case to protect them from damage while traveling.
• Blue Light Protection : If you frequently use electronic devices, consider glasses that block blue light to reduce eye strain and improve sleep quality.
• Polarized Lenses : Opt for polarized lenses to minimize glare from reflective surfaces, such as water or glass.
• Fashionable Design : Select glasses that fit your personal style, as you'll be more likely to wear them regularly.

Tips for Choosing the Right Fit

• Measurements Matter : Pay attention to the frame measurements, including lens width, bridge width, and temple length, to ensure a comfortable fit.
• Try Before Buying : If possible, try on different frames to get an idea of how they feel on your face and how well they suit you.
• Consider Face Shape : Different frame shapes complement different face shapes, so choose accordingly to enhance your overall look.
• Avoid Pinching : Ensure that the glasses don't pinch your nose or ears, as this can cause discomfort during extended wear.
• Lens Positioning : Position the lenses at the right height so that you can read without tilting your head excessively.

Frequently Asked Questions about 8 Best Travel Reading Glasses for 2023

Yes, reading glasses can be used by anyone who needs magnification for near vision tasks, regardless of whether they have a prescription or not.

The appropriate strength can be determined by conducting a simple reading test or by consulting an optometrist for a comprehensive eye examination.

While you can use your regular prescription glasses for reading, travel reading glasses offer a more compact and convenient solution for on-the-go use.

Yes, travel reading glasses can be made with astigmatism correction if you have the appropriate prescription.

No, not all travel reading glasses are foldable. However, many designs offer foldable options for increased portability and ease of storage during travel.

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Coordinating carry-ons and checked bags that are worth the investment.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

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Best Sustainable

Eagle creek migrate 110l wheeled duffel bag.

If you're headed on a long trip or just consider yourself an over-packer, you might need more than one bag for your belongings (not to mention space to overfill with souvenirs on the way home). Instead of lugging around a hodgepodge of pieces, consider a luggage set. There's nothing more chic and put together than carrying a coordinating set of luggage complete with carry-on and checked bags. And if you're vacationing with kids or family, traveling with a matching set is a great way to keep track of all your bags. But with so many options to choose from, including different types of materials and all kinds of organizational features, it can be difficult to decide which luggage sets will look great, hold up to frequent use and really be worth the splurge.

Samsonite continues to stand out in our Lab evaluations and has wowed our consumer testers , earning it the title of best overall luggage brand . This luggage set includes two of our top-tested suitcases from the brand's Freeform collection — the smaller 21-inch carry-on model and the larger 28-inch checked bag. These suitcases are made of durable hardside material that performed well in our drop tests, resisting major damage after being released repeatedly at different angles from a set 3-foot height.

When we packed the suitcases with a standard load of items like clothing, shoes and accessories, we were impressed by how well everything fit inside with room to spare — even without having to use the 2-inch expansion system. One caveat: Some of our testers noted that the carrying handles on suitcases in this collection felt a bit tight, which made it more difficult to lift or lower the bags. However, the telescopic handles received higher scores for feeling sturdy and comfortable to use. Testers also appreciated how easily the suitcases navigated around twists and turns and said the 360-degree spinner wheels were smooth.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-inch and 28-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polypropylene | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

At less than $100 for three pieces, this basic American Tourister trio is an absolute steal and one of the best affordable luggage sets out there. While the softsided carry-on, checked bag and personal item may be simple, they're still full of practical features that make traveling easier like plenty of external pockets, interior mesh pockets and compression straps to secure your belongings.

The brand's bags aren't as durable as others we've tested in the Lab, so I recommend this set for someone who isn't planning to fly frequently. According to one GH analyst who has used this set for nearly a decade, the bags have still held up well to repeated use. She added that the softside polyester material is slightly worn with some fraying and scuffs, but the bags are still useable, and the important features, like the telescopic handles and zippers, are in working condition. When we evaluated other suitcases from American Tourister, testers highlighted the smooth and stable wheels, and online reviewers say they roll nicely, despite only moving forward and backward.

Pieces: 3 | Sizes: 21-inch and 25-inch suitcases, 10-inch personal item | Material: Softside polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Originally designed by a pilot for other pilots who are always on the go, Travelpro's luggage is the perfect pick for the frequent flyer, and I'm particularly impressed by the brand's Platinum Elite collection. The softside suitcases were some of the top performers in our durability tests , withstanding repeated dropping without dents or damage. The nylon material resisted signs of wear after being rubbed back and forth with our abrasion tester. They are heavier than many of the other bags we tested, but they are durable bags built to last.

The suitcases are thoughtfully designed with a tapered expansion system that prevents the bags from tipping over when full. Self-aligning spinner wheels let you push and pull in all directions, and cushioned handles with contoured grips add a comfortable feel. Plus, they're packed full of extras inside like expandable garment bags, toiletries bags and hidden USB ports to charge electronic devices (power bank not included). Our testers gave luggage in this collection high scores for ease of use and highlighted the sturdiness of the telescopic handle. If you're nervous about committing to the high price tag, the brand offers a 100-day return policy, even for used suitcases.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-inch and 25-inch suitcases | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 100 days, any reason

For luggage that looks as great as it performs, I recommend Calpak's Ambeur two-piece luggage set, which offers the best of fashion and function. Available in five fun metallic shades that are sure to stand out at baggage claim, the bags are made of a composite of polycarbonate and ABS plastic that aced our Lab tests for durability. They also proved water-resistant in our evaluations, but did show noticeable markings after we dragged a wire across the surface during our scratch-resistance tests.

The bags are GH-tester favorites and earned top marks for their performance in our luggage obstacle course which had testers pull the suitcases over different surfaces and around sharp turns. Testers especially loved the sturdy and easy-to-use telescopic handle. When we assessed the suitcases in the Lab, we were impressed by the zippers that opened and closed with ease. The spacious interior compartments were able to hold our entire packing load of items including clothing, shoes and toiletries. Both the carry-on and checked bag are expandable and equipped with zippered organizational pockets, compression straps and a removable toiletries bag. For even more organization, you can try Calpak's top-tested packing cubes too.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21-inch and 29.5-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate and ABS composite | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Not only does this two-piece luggage set from Amazon Basics have more than 34,000 five-star reviews, but it also earned high scores in our Lab evaluations and was loved by our testers. The carry-on and checked suitcase both unfold into two main packing compartments, one with compression straps to keep your belongings in place and another with a full zippered panel for even more security. When we packed the carry-on bag in the Lab, we fit an entire weekend's worth of gear including clothing, shoes and toiletries with room to spare. Plus, both of the suitcases expand for even more space.

The hardside suitcases are made of lightweight ABS plastic that keeps the price low, though it wasn't as scratch-resistant as some other suitcases we tested. It did hold up well in our drop tests though, with no serious denting or breakage after being released repeatedly from a set 3-foot height. When testers rolled the suitcases through our luggage obstacle course, around turns and over different surfaces from wood to carpeting, they were impressed by the maneuverability and wheel performance.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 20-inch and 28-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside ABS plastic | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

As the name implies, these Delsey Helium DLX suitcases are some of the lightest we've evaluated in the Lab. No more lugging around bulky bags or struggling to lift your carry-on into the overhead bin. Despite being so lightweight, these bags are tough. In our tests for durability, the luggage held up well after being released repeatedly in our drop tests, and the softside nylon material showed no signs of wear after being rubbed back and forth 15,000 times by our abrasion tester.

In our evaluations, we found the exterior zippers a bit tricky to use, and the bags received lower scores for maneuverability than other suitcases we tried, but they did earn high scores for their comfortable gripped telescopic handles and for being easy to pack. All three of the suitcases open into one primary packing compartment with compression straps, and the lids of each bag are equipped with zippered pockets and elastic sleeves for additional storage. There are removable bi-fold organizers inside as well. I particularly love that the linings can be unzipped and removed for easy cleaning.

Pieces: 3 | Sizes: 20-inch, 25-inch and 29-inch suitcases | Material: Softside nylon | Expandable: Yes | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

Designed with simplicity in mind, this two-piece set from luggage brand Monos has a sleek, modern look that our testers love. Both of the bags opened to reveal two spacious compartments that were able to fit our entire load of items in our packing tests. The carry-on bag features an adjustable compression panel, while the larger checked bag is equipped with compression straps and a larger fabric panel to keep everything in place. What's more, there are plenty of organizational mesh pockets inside the bags, along with additional shoe bags and a laundry bag to separate your dirty clothes.

During Lab evaluations, the durable carry-on and checked suitcase resisted major denting and damage in our drop tests. Both we and our consumer testers noticed prominent scuffing on the suitcases after use, but the brand provides a sponge for cleaning. One GH analyst said the sponge removed most of the marks on her bag. In our luggage obstacle course, testers appreciated the smooth gliding wheels and loved how effortless it was to maneuver the bags around twists and turns. They also noticed how well the telescopic handles locked into place at four different heights for easy toting.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 22-inch and 26.5-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

Popular luggage brand Away carries sets of its best-selling carry-on and large checked bag for a better value — $50 off the full retail price. The hardside suitcases are loved by testers who highlighted the streamlined look and the spacious, well-organized interior. The bags open into two separate packing compartments with zippered mesh panels and pockets for additional space. There's also an adjustable compression panel inside each bag so you can really stuff it full if you're an over-packer like me. When we packed the bags in the Lab, we appreciated how smoothly the zippers opened and closed and how much we could fit inside.

The polycarbonate material is super lightweight — even lighter than some of our favorite softside luggage — and ultra-durable. It performed well in our drop tests, remaining in great condition after being released multiple times from a set 3-foot height. In our scratch tests, the bags showed minimal scuffs and markings. One caveat: Our consumer testers gave the telescopic handle lower ratings for feeling a bit wobbly when fully extended. The bags received high scores for their maneuverability and smooth wheels. If you want to add a personal touch to your luggage set, Away offers monograms of up to three letters for an added fee.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: 21.7-inch and 29-inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 100 days, unused

If you're on Instagram or TikTok, chances are that you've come across viral luggage brand Béis . Actress Shay Mitchell's trendsetting travel brand offers carry-ons, checked bags, weekender bags and more — all thoughtfully designed. The suitcases feature details like cushy padded telescopic handles, a retractable strap to hold a small bag or your travel blanket and a built-in weight indicator to let you know if your bag exceeds 50 pounds. I'm especially a fan of the chic monochromatic color options — even the metal of the telescopic handle matches.

When we tested the brand's suitcases in the Textiles Lab, my fellow GH analysts and I were impressed by how well the luggage withstood dents and damage after being released repeatedly from our drop tester. We did note that the material was more prone to scratches and scuffs than other luggage we tested. The suitcases open butterfly style, exposing a spacious zippered compartment and a compartment with a secure compression strap. A few smaller pockets help keep your things organized. You can choose which pieces to include in your luggage set , so the price and number of pieces vary depending on your selections.

Pieces: 2 | Sizes: and 28.3 inch suitcases | Material: Hardside polycarbonate | Expandable: No

Whether you prefer traveling with a duffel, want something that will hold up to your outdoor adventures or are looking for a more sustainable luggage option, Eagle Creek has you covered. The brand's Migrate duffels are sold individually, but I like how you can build your own set with five sizes ranging from 40L to 130L. Each bag is convertible: You can carry it with the attached handles or wear it on your shoulders like a backpack. The larger checked sizes can also be tilted back to roll on the ground with the built-in wheels, while the smaller duffels (like the brand's 40L duffel ) make a convenient carry-on.

All of the bags are made of 100% recycled polyester with a TPU coating that's water-resistant and easy to wipe clean. Plus, it's super durable, and one GH analyst who regularly travels with Eagle Creek duffels says the material holds up well to rough use. The duffels have a wide opening to make packing a breeze, and the large zipper tabs are convenient and easy to pull. Once your bag is packed, you can buckle the outer compression straps to secure your belongings.

Pieces: 1 | Size: Five sizes from 40L to 130L (sold individually) | Material: Recycled polyester | Expandable: No | Returns: Within 30 days, unused

How we test the best luggage

At the Good Housekeeping Institute , we test all kinds of luggage to determine which pieces are worth buying. We evaluate luggage in the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab and share it with consumer testers who bring the luggage on their own trips and then provide us with valuable feedback. Here's what we look for when we test suitcases:

• Size and weight: To ensure that the brands' listed dimensions for the suitcases are accurate, we measure each bag in the Lab. We weigh the bags and place carry-ons in a 22" x 14" x 9" area to make sure the suitcases meet most airline restrictions.

• Ease of use: We test the luggage to determine how easy it is to open and close zippers and built-in locks, raise and lower the telescopic handles, roll the wheels, grab the carrying handles and more. We then rate and score the luggage for overall ease of use.

• Packing: We fill each piece of luggage with a standard load of items like clothing, shoes, accessories and toiletries (pictured) to test the capacity. For larger checked bags, we pack them with a week's worth of items and for carry-on bags, we add a weekend trip's worth of items. We then score each suitcase on how much it's able to hold.

• Drop testing: We fill the suitcases with a standard amount of weight and then load them into our drop tester (pictured). We then release the luggage from a set 3-foot height and repeatedly drop the luggage from different angles, evaluating each piece for any dents, damages or scuffs.

Amanda (she/her) researches and reports on products in the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab, ranging from clothing and accessories to home furnishings. She holds undergraduate degrees in apparel merchandising and product development and advertising and marketing communications, as well as a master of science degree in consumer sciences from The Ohio State University. Prior to joining Good Housekeeping in 2022, Amanda was a lecturer for the fashion and retail studies program at Ohio State, where she taught fashion and textiles courses.

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, everything you need to know about solar eclipse glasses before april 8.

Joe Hernandez

People view a total solar eclipse at from the observatory at Rockefeller Center in New York City on Aug. 21, 2017. Drew Angerer/Getty Images hide caption

People view a total solar eclipse at from the observatory at Rockefeller Center in New York City on Aug. 21, 2017.

The total solar eclipse is this Monday. If you're geeked to see it, you'll want to start getting prepared to do so safely.

One way would be to nab a pair of special solar eclipse glasses and to make sure they're the real deal.

Since it's been seven years since the last solar eclipse crossed the U.S. , here's a refresher on all things eclipse glasses so you can view this celestial event without frying your eyeballs.

Remind me. What's the deal with this total eclipse?

A total solar eclipse — when the moon crosses directly in front of the daytime sun — will appear in the sky on April 8, 2024.

An estimated 31 million people live in the narrow strip of land stretching from Maine to Texas where people will be able to see the total eclipse — when the moon completely covers up the sun. Those outside this "path of totality" will see a partial eclipse, in which the moon blocks anywhere from a little bit to almost all of the sun.

NASA estimates that 99% of people living in the U.S. will be able to see a partial or total eclipse.

For April's eclipse, going from 'meh' to 'OMG' might mean just driving across town

Precisely when you'll be able to see the eclipse — and what kind of eclipse you'll be able to see — will depend on your location and time zone.

Total solar eclipses are rare , and many people in the U.S. will have to wait more than two decades for another. The next total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Do I really need eclipse glasses?

If you plan to look directly at the eclipse, yes.

Proper eye protection must be worn throughout a total solar eclipse — except for the roughly 3 1/2 to 4 minutes when the moon fully obscures the sun, a brief period known as "totality." (You will need to take your glasses off during totality to actually see it.)

During the periods before and after totality — and during the entirety of a partial solar eclipse — eye protection is required.

Looking at the sun without proper eye protection for even a short time can harm your eyes and risk permanently damaging your retina, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Some people can even suffer blindness after looking directly at the sun, an affliction known as solar retinopathy.

Tammy Hellinga, left, and Joanne Hostetter prepare Sun Catcher solar eclipse glasses for shipment to customers from the Explore Scientific store in Springdale, Ark., on Jan. 30. Michael Woods/AP hide caption

Specialized eclipse glasses and hand-held solar viewers solve that problem. Their filters typically let through between 0.001% and 0.00005% of visible light, and they can be more than 1,000 times darker than ordinary sunglasses, the American Astronomical Society says .

Can I use something else to see the eclipse?

For sure. You can use a pinhole projector or camera obscura or even a colander to cast an image of the eclipse on the ground or a wall.

What you should not do is try to look at the eclipse through a telescope, binoculars or an unfiltered camera — even if you're wearing eclipse glasses.

And it bears repeating: Your regular sunglasses are not strong enough for eclipse viewing.

OK, I'm sold. Where can I get a pair?

There are plenty of eclipse glasses available for free or sale in person and online, but experts are urging people to source glasses carefully and beware of fakes .

Rick Fienberg, project manager of the AAS Solar Eclipse Task Force, says counterfeit eclipse glasses began appearing on the market just before the 2017 solar eclipse.

"[W]e didn't know who was making them, and we didn't know if they were safe," he told NPR via email.

The AAS issued a warning, and Amazon temporarily pulled some eclipse glasses from its website.

For this year's eclipse, Fienberg says, his group has had time to request testing information from many manufacturers. But he adds that some sellers of bogus eclipse glasses now fraudulently use the name or design of other companies.

Shots - Health News

Watching a solar eclipse without the right filters can cause eye damage. here's why.

There's a list on the AAS website of recommended eclipse glasses and other solar viewers that are made by reputable companies and safe when used properly.

Still, beware: Narrowing your choices to products that say they comply with the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard for eclipse glasses may not be enough, the AAS warns, since some vendors have falsely advertised that their untested glasses meet the standard. The AAS suggests avoiding buying products based solely on price from Amazon, eBay, Temu or other online marketplaces.

You may not have to do any shopping yourself, though. More than 13,000 public libraries across the U.S. are handing out 5 million eclipse glasses for free, so check with your local branch.

How can I make sure my eclipse glasses are legit?

The first thing to know is that you shouldn't test your eclipse glasses against the sun, just in case they're unsafe, according to NASA Goddard .

Instead, hold them up to a bright lamp or flashlight. The lit bulb should be invisible or very dim through the eclipse glasses, and you should not be able to see the glow around it.

Scenes from the rare 'ring of fire' eclipse

"The way I like to think about it is if I put on the glasses and I can see anything that's not the sun, then they're not dark enough," Angela Speck, chair of the department of physics and astronomy at the University of Texas at San Antonio, told NPR. "That's a quick and dirty way to kind of judge it."

If you're planning to use an old pair of eclipse glasses, experts recommend checking to make sure they don't have any scratches or damage.

Want to see how a solar eclipse alters colors? Wear red and green on Monday

But if for some reason you can't get eclipse glasses before the big event, Speck suggests trying one of the other methods astronomers suggest for viewing the eclipse, like a projector.

"There are alternatives to looking through the glasses, and it would be a shame to miss this for fear of hurting your eyes," she said.

Nell Greenfieldboyce contributed reporting.

• 2024 eclipse
• solar eclipse

Watch CBS News

How to make solar eclipse glasses, cereal box viewers and pinhole cameras to watch the 2024 show safely

By Sara Moniuszko

Edited By Allison Elyse Gualtieri

Updated on: April 8, 2024 / 12:08 PM EDT / CBS News

If you can't get your hands on a pair of solar eclipse glasses, experts say there are still ways to enjoy the event safely.

There are also unsafe alternatives, including wearing your normal sunglasses — or even stacking two or three.

"There's no amount of sunglasses that people can put on that will make up for the filtering that the ISO standard filters and the eclipse glasses provide," said Dr. Jason P. Brinton, an ophthalmologist and medical director at Brinton Vision in St. Louis.

You also shouldn't look at the eclipse through a camera lens, phone, binoculars or telescope, according to NASA, even while wearing eclipse glasses. The solar rays can burn through the lens  and cause serious eye injury.

So what can you use? Here's what doctors suggest:

How to make your own eclipse-safe glasses at home

If you don't have the traditional solar eclipse glasses, Brinton said you can also look through No. 14 welder's glasses (for people who may have access) or aluminized mylar plastic sheets.

Just like with traditional solar eclipse glasses, Brinton said it's important to make sure the material you're viewing through is fully intact.

"Make sure that there are no scratches or damage," he said. 

How make a pinhole projector for safe eclipse viewing

No glasses? Indirect viewing is another way to enjoy the eclipse without damaging your eyes. 

Brinton said there are several ways to indirectly view the event, including a homemade pinhole projector. Here's how to make one:

• Put a small pinhole into a piece of paper
• Face away from the sun, holding the paper out so the sunlight hits it
• Watch the pinhole projection of the sun on the ground (or on a second piece of paper you hold underneath), seeing it go from a complete circle gradually disappearing 

"If you're in the path of totality, of course it completely disappears." Brinton said. "That's an indirect way of viewing it that is appropriate."

How to make an eclipse viewer from a cereal box

If you want to make your indirect viewing tool a bit more elaborate, you can make an eclipse viewer with a few more materials around the house. Here's how:

• Find a small box (popular options are cereal and shoe boxes)
• Cut two openings at the bottom of the box
• Using tape, cover one of the openings with a piece of paper or aluminum foil punctured with a small pinhole
• Face away from the sun, allowing the light to hit the pinhole
• Looking through the remaining opening to the inside of the box, watch as the sun projection goes from a complete circle to an eclipse

Need a visual? CBS Pittsburgh meteoroligist Ray Petelin  demonstrated an easy step-by-step on how to make a cereal box pinhole viewer, which you can watch below.

Doctors share how to make sure your eclipse viewers are safe

"Theoretically, since you are not looking directly to the sun during the eclipse or partial eclipse, (eclipse viewers) should be safe," said Dr. Yehia Hashad, an ophthalmologist, retinal specialist and the chief medical officer at eye health company Bausch + Lomb. "However, having said that, it's implementation that sometimes makes us worry."

• Are your eclipse glasses safe? Here's how to know if they'll really protect your eyes during the total solar eclipse .

Why? Sometimes people have a small peek at the sun in order to adjust the box or pinhole in the right direction, he said. This can be especially common with children, who may not understand the consequences of looking at the eclipse.

"This is what makes us sometimes conservative about this method," said Hashad. "We always worry, unless you are supervising the implementation of this, especially with children since they are very vulnerable to these types of situations."

Why do you need a special viewer for the total solar eclipse?

Eye protection during the eclipse is important to prevent eye damage.

"If someone briefly looks at the eclipse if it's extremely brief, in some cases there won't be damaged but damage can happen even within a fraction of a second in some cases," Brinton said. "As an ophthalmologist, I have seen patients who have so-called eclipse or solar retinopathy."

Signs and symptoms of eye damage following an eclipse viewing include headaches, blurred vision, dark spots, changes to how you see color, lines and shapes.

Sara Moniuszko is a health and lifestyle reporter at CBSNews.com. Previously, she wrote for USA Today, where she was selected to help launch the newspaper's wellness vertical. She now covers breaking and trending news for CBS News' HealthWatch.

More from CBS News

Look at the solar eclipse too long? Doctors explain signs of eye damage

Are your eclipse glasses safe? How to tell for the total solar eclipse.

Is it safe to take pictures of the solar eclipse with your phone?

Solar eclipse maps show 2024 totality path, peak times across the U.S.

Solar eclipse 2024: Photos from the path of totality and elsewhere in the U.S.

Images show the Great American Eclipse, seen by tens of millions of people in parts of Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada for the first time since 2017.

Millions gathered across North America on Monday to bask in the glory of the Great American Eclipse — the moment when the moon passes between the Earth and the sun. 

The path of totality measures more than 100 miles wide and will first be visible on Mexico’s Pacific coast before moving northeast through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois and upward toward New York, New Hampshire and Maine, then on to Canada.

Total solar eclipse 2024 highlights: Live coverage, videos and more

During the cosmic spectacle, the moon’s movements will temporarily block the sun’s light, creating minutes of darkness, and will make the sun's outer atmosphere, or the corona, visible as a glowing halo.

Here are moments of the celestial activities across the country:

Breaking News Reporter

Elise Wrabetz is a Senior Photo Editor for NBC News and MSNBC.

Chelsea Stahl is the art director for NBC News Digital

Total solar eclipse 2024: Watch video and see photos of the sky spectacle

EAGLE PASS, Texas − In a moment of cosmic alignment that was precisely predicted yet undeniably mysterious , the moon crept across the face of the sun as seen from Earth, casting its shadow onto the United States on Monday.

And then it was over: A total eclipse of the sun has come and gone.  

The partial shadow crossed into the U.S. in Texas just after noon local time, and a bit more than an hour later, the minutes of “totality” began. The total eclipse of the sun then traced a path from southern Texas to northern Maine, where it exited into Canada and the ocean beyond.

The rare event was an astronomical experience like no other. Monday's eclipse was unusually accessible to millions of people. It was widely anticipated not only for its remarkable period of darkness, but for its rare timing: No total solar eclipse would be visible from the contiguous United States again until 2044. While millions of Americans may have seen today’s eclipse, a small group in Texas was among the very first.

Edge of eclipse shadow began in south Texas

Alejandra Martinez, a seventh-grade science teacher from the south Texas border city of Eagle Pass, peered up at the gray, gauzy sky, anxiously awaiting the solar eclipse’s entrance into the USA.

Sitting with a telescope under a camping canopy in a corner of the county airport, Martinez, 42, and two other science enthusiasts had been recruited by NASA to participate in an effort called Citizen CATE 2024, where more than 30 teams perched in the eclipse’s path will record the shadowy trek across the country. 

In this spot, less than five miles from the U.S.-Mexico border, she and her team would be among the first people in the U.S. to witness the phenomenon. Eagle Pass sits near the very beginning of the eclipse’s track from southwest to northeast across the country. It also sits very near dead-center of it, where the period of “totality” will be the longest. That total shadow was still more than an hour away when the edge of the shadow began to darken the sky.

Martinez, dressed in a “This Totality Rocks” T-shirt and eclipse-themed skirt, watched as the penumbra crept across the airfield, about 10 minutes past noon local time. She put on her eclipse glasses and peered up at the sky. The gauzy clouds parted. “There it is! There it is!” she yelled. “First contact. It’s begun!”

Clouds came and went as the shadow grew for the next hour. As totality approached Eagle Pass, the sky shaded a dull gray then a heavy brown and the temperature dropped a few degrees. Only a sliver of the sun remained.

A few seconds before 1:27 p.m. CT, the crowd counted down, “3..2..1…” The sun was gone, completely covered by the moon. Darkness spread over the small airport grounds. “Oh my god,” Martinez said, a hand covering her heart. “This is so cool!”

How to tell if you have eye damage from looking at a partial eclipse?

For those who took a chance and looked at the sun without protective eyewear during the eclipse, concerns may arise if their vision starts to seem impaired. Have they suffered eclipse blindness?

Looking directly at the sun even briefly without the proper safety glasses can result in eye damage, either temporary or permanent. The body's natural squinting reaction in normal circumstances prevents people from staring directly at the sun, but that reflex may not be activated during partial eclipses, even though a partly shielded sun can still burn the retina.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology says pain won't be an indication of damaged eyes because the retina lacks pain nerves. Worrisome signs are instead blurry vision, headaches, light sensitivity, blind spots in the central vision, distorted vision and changes in color perception. Anyone experiencing those symptoms should see an ophthalmologist, the AAO says.

What was the timeline of the 2024 solar eclipse?

The total eclipse began in Mexico at about 11:07 a.m. PDT, Monday before crossing into Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. It ended in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT. Even those who weren't in the path of totality could see a percentage of the eclipse.

To find out exactly when the eclipse occurred in your area, you can search by  USA TODAY's database by ZIP code  for a viewing guide.

Students in Washington get hands-on learning

Dozens of students spilled out of Ida B. Wells Middle School in Washington, D.C., gripping cardboard solar eclipse glasses and chatting with excitement. “Why is the sun shaped as a moon?” one student asked after looking toward the sun. “Why is it not getting dark?’’ asked another.

Teacher Troy Mangum, who the students called “Mr. Mango,’’ slowly explained the science behind the experience as he cautioned others to put on their glasses. Students at the school in northwest D.C. had had lessons about the eclipse leading up the day’s teaching outside the classroom.

“Anytime we can get hands on or dynamic learning … it’s invaluable,’’ said Mangum, a social emotional learning coach. “We talked about it so much. It’s nice to see them get excited about qeeky Mr. Mango type of stuff.”

Skylar Cruel, 12, had come outside with her science class. “I just really wanted to see it,’’ she said. “You get to see it turn from light to dark.”

Steps away at Whittier Elementary School, which focuses on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), younger students put on their glasses and tilted their heads up toward the sun behind their school.

Michael Haile joined his daughter, Markan Worku, 9, a student at Whittier, and brought along his 5-year-old son, Keab. He called it a memorable experience for his children. Markan, who had been learning about solar eclipses in her third-grade class, simply said, “This is cool!’’ 

− Deborah Berry

In Michigan, a bonding experience for a mother and her three kids

In Michigan, eclipse enthusiasts packed a watch party along the Detroit Riverwalk near Cullen Plaza. They sat on the grass, on benches and berms. For Janelle Ikonen of Waterford, it was a chance to bond with her three children − Hannah, 9; Elim, 12; and Isaac, 14 − whom she took out of school for the day.

“I wanted to experience a unique event with them,” said Ikonen, 47. “It’s one of my big deals to me, to experience things with my kids. … I hope they’ll remember spending time with me.”

In Grand Rapids, where 94% coverage of the sun was expected, viewers gathered on the city's “Blue Bridge,” which offered a view of the eclipse over the Grand River. With no cloud cover over the city, visitors had an unobstructed scene. The Grand Rapids Public Museum set up a series of solar telescopes.

Jill and Wes Johnson, 50 and 14, were among those awaiting max coverage. They’d considered traveling from Grand Rapids to a place with total coverage, but decided 94% coverage was worthwhile enough to stay home.

“I think people are excited to see something unique,” Jill Johnson said.

− Georgea Kovanis and Arpan Lobo, Detroit Free Press

US women's soccer team takes in eclipse ahead of title game

COLUMBUS, Ohio − The U.S. women’s national soccer team took a break from SheBelieves Cup preparation to watch the eclipse. 

Several team members, including World Cup veterans Crystal Dunn, Alyssa Naeher, Naomi Girma and Trinity Rodman, coaches and staff members donned eclipse glasses and went outside their hotel to see the rare event.

As the sky darkened and the moon moved in front of the sun, someone yelled, “Come on, keep going!” Columbus is just outside the path of totality, so all but a sliver of the sun wound up being covered. 

The USWNT is in Columbus for the final of the SheBelieves Cup on Tuesday night against Canada.

− Nancy Armour

Witnessing the first total eclipse from a cruise ship

Passengers aboard Holland America's Koningsdam cruise ship eagerly gathered on the top decks at 10 a.m. local time to watch the spectacle of a solar eclipse.

Positioned off the coast of Mazatlan, Mexico − the first city in North America to witness the total eclipse − the ship provided an ideal vantage point for viewing the celestial event. Accompanied by an astronomer, the captain meticulously adjusted the ship's position to ensure the best possible view.

Dan Fueller, an experienced eclipse observer who had previously seen similar phenomena from ships in 1991 and 1998, emphasized the advantages of viewing the eclipse from a cruise ship. He noted the flexibility of the ship's mobility allowed for optimal positioning along the eclipse's path, ensuring unobstructed views.

"You're on a cruise ship and (the best view) is a little bit farther to the west or a little bit farther to the east − along the path, there's a clear sky − the ship can move. If you're on land and there's not a road there, you better have a tank."

− Joshuan Rivera

Partial eclipse 'like a little Pac-Man taking a bite out of the sun'

In Parthenon, Arkansas, the eclipse began near the Buffalo National River. Five friends traveled from Florida to be on a rock outcropping to witness the celestial event.

“Yes! I see it!” Angie Printiss exclaimed.

“Oh ya! You can see it,” said Kate Estes. “It’s like a little Pac-Man taking a bite out of the sun.”

At 20 minutes before totality, the sky got noticeably darker. The shadow of crescent sun shapes played off the limestone rocks.

“It looks like water − like fish scales,” Estes said. “That is so weird, when the trees move you can really see it.”

− Jennifer Portman

New Englanders travel for better view of the eclipse

Crowds ballooned into the thousands midday Monday in the center of St. Johnsbury, Vermont, as the nearly cloudless sky and warm sun boosted temperatures to an unseasonably 60 degrees.

Jim and Kim Cooper drove over from New Hampton, New Hampshire, their first time doing more than just passing through the town locals call St. Jays. Their son had proposed to his girlfriend in Tennessee during the 2017 eclipse and then had an eclipse-themed wedding, but the Coopers had never seen a total eclipse for themselves, so they decided to come to the closest place where they could be assured of a good view.

Jeffrey Breau had seen that 2017 eclipse for himself and was so impressed that he convinced family members to join him this time. Breau’s girlfriend, Nell Hawley, came up with him from Cambridge, Massachusetts, while his brother Alex and his girlfriend Diana Ventura drove up from New York City. The Breau brothers' father, Walter, joined them in taking in their first eclipse.

“I would have been OK watching it in the yard,” Walter said, though he would only have seen a partial eclipse from there. “That’s what you think now,” Jeffrey said quickly. “Talk to me in two hours.”

− Karen Weintraub

Kids bring homemade eclipse viewers to National Mall

Lucas and Lucy Porto Banco didn’t need to buy fancy eclipse glasses – the 7- and 10-year-old siblings made their own eclipse viewers from two cardboard shoe boxes left over from a couple of their mom’s recent shoe purchases.With the help of a YouTube tutorial video, they made two holes in each box with a whittling knife and taped tin foil over. Then they used dry spaghetti to poke holes in the tin foil for the sun’s light to pass through and project onto the dark inside of the box.The kids put together the viewer in little more than five minutes, Lucy said. “Maybe 15, with covering all the gaps in the shoe box,” she said.Even with his own eclipse-viewing creation, Lucas said he may still take advantage of his eclipse glasses. “I’m going to do both,” he said.

− Cybele Mayes-Osterman

What is an 'umbra?' − and other eclipse words

Astronomers and eclipse enthusiasts used a bunch of specialized words Monday as the nation experienced its first solar eclipse since 2017 and the last one for until 2044. Here are a few of those terms and what they mean, according to the American Astronomical Society .

Baily's Beads – This refers to the beaded appearance of the moon's edge as the eclipse nears totality. Shafts of sunlight shine through deep valleys on the moon's surface, which causes the effect known to observers as Bailey's Beads.

Umbra – The darkest part of the moon’s shadow, within which the entirety of the sun's bright face is blocked. An observer standing in the umbra sees a total solar eclipse.

Penumbra: The lighter part of the moon's shadow, making up its outer portion, where light can reach.

Corona – The sun’s upper atmosphere, visible as a pearly glow around the eclipsed sun during totality.

Totality – The maximum phase of a total solar eclipse, during which the moon’s disk completely covers the sun's bright face. It can last from a fraction of a second to a maximum of 7 minutes, 31 seconds, depending on viewing location and other factors.

− Dale Denwalt, The Oklahoman

A last-minute search for glasses for 'a perfect spot'

Patsy Faoro walked toward a half dozen people gathered at the gate of Turner Farm Park in Great Falls, Virginia. The people were awaiting the opening of an eclipse viewing event complete with telescopes and educational presentations.

Faoro, who lives near the park in this upscale Northern Virginia neighborhood, just wanted glasses to safely view the eclipse.

She visited CVS, Safeway and a 7/11 convenience store, all of which had advertised the availability of glasses to view the eclipse. None of the retailers had any glasses remaining when Faoro checked this morning.

“We have this great big open space that’s a perfect spot,” said Faoro, who viewed her first eclipse in the 1970s. “We just need some glasses.”

− Ken Alltucker

Indianapolis Motor Speedway event draws tens of thousands

Tory Patrick, 41, is hoping to give her four children a once-in-a-lifetime learning opportunity. Patrick and her family traveled 160 miles to Indianapolis Motor Speedway from their home in Granger, Indiana. They were expected to have 97% totality at home, but it’s not the same as total coverage, she said.

“They will be getting the full experience that they can’t read about in textbooks,” Patrick said.

Patrick and her sister Cally Gannon, 39, from Cincinnati, met in Indianapolis to view the eclipse from the speedway. They camped outside IMS over the weekend ahead of the event and on Sunday afternoon saw a double rainbow over the speedway’s iconic pagoda. An estimated 50,000 tickets were sold for the day’s festivities, presented in partnership with NASA and Purdue University.

Elsewhere in the stands, Ryan Harper, 30, knows today is special.

“We’re right in totality,” he said. “This sometimes doesn’t happen in people’s lifetimes.

— Sarah Bowman and Jade Thomas

Family travels from Baltimore to Rochester, N.Y., to view the eclipse

When Maze Pelham of Baltimore was a fifth-grader, he watched news of the 2017 solar eclipse and vowed to witness the next notable solar eclipse. That eclipse, and that day, has come. And this is why he and his parents, Janice and Sonney Pelham, left Maryland around 1 a.m. on Monday and drove nearly seven hours to Rochester, New York.

“I said to myself I would go to the next one,” Maze Pelham said while seated with his parents on lawn chairs at downtown Rochester’s Parcel 5 park, where he and hundreds of others are awaiting a view of the full eclipse. “It’s a promise I made to myself.”

– Democrat and Chronicle, part of the USA TODAY Network

In Brooklyn: Eclipses glasses, check. Lawn chair, check.

Ralph Emerson held a pair of paper sunglasses in his hands while riding the subway to Brooklyn's sprawling Prospect Park on Monday. He exited the train with a folded lawn chair strapped across his shoulder, and said he felt energized and full of anticipation.

"This is special," Emerson, 61, said. "I haven't woken up with this much excitement since the Super Bowl."

Walking to the park's botanic garden, Emerson said appreciating natural phenomena makes it easier to manage the stresses that come with living in a big city. Also like a big sports game, the eclipse will draw lots of people together to experience something much larger than themselves, in community, he said.

"A lot of times it's tragedies that bring us together, but sometimes things like this do," he said.

− Claire Thornton

Texas Eclipse Festival cut short by weather

The Texas Eclipse Festival was canceled Monday in Burnet County, 50 miles northwest of Austin, because of weather concerns. The festival, which included bands and other events, began Sunday and was supposed to wrap up Tuesday.

"We regret to inform you of the severe weather forecast, including risks of high winds, tornadic activity, large hail, and thunderstorms for later today, including during the eclipse, Tuesday, and Wednesday," festival organizers said on their website. "Your safety is our top priority."

Festivalgoers were urged to leave early for safety and to beat traffic. Guests, however, were allowed to stay "provided they pack and are prepared to depart after totality."

Traffic jams, collisions mar eclipse watchers' travel

Traffic crashes and road delays were reported across the nation as Americans flocked to prime locations to gaze up at the rare solar eclipse . Local roads and highways in states including Texas, Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Vermont and New Hampshire were overwhelmed with eclipse chasers, many of whom were from out of state. The most intense bottlenecks appeared to be in the path of totality , where spectators will be able to view the full eclipse.

In Oklahoma, a crash around 7:30 a.m. local time narrowed eastbound lanes on I-40, a major transcontinental highway that runs from California to North Carolina. The crash occurred not far from several state parks that were hosting eclipse events, and it's also within driving distance of the full eclipse path, which includes parts of southeastern Oklahoma and Arkansas.

Multiple crashes were reported on an interstate in Waco, Texas, a city in the path of totality, where several festivities and eclipse viewing events were scheduled. The crashes all occurred on I-35, which runs from southern Texas to Minnesota.

"Expect major traffic delays in this area," the Texas Department of Transportation said in a statement .

− Christopher Cann

Airport draws a crowd of jets for eclipse

EAGLE PASS, Texas − Maverick County International Airport in Eagle Pass, Texas, usually sees maybe three private planes a day. By 10 a.m. CT on Monday, more than 10 planes crowded the tarmac, including Cessnas, Pipers and at least one corporate jet − all there to catch an early glimpse of the total solar eclipse. Eagle Pass will be one of the first American cities to witness the phenomenon. Some watchers, like Brandon Beck, 43, flew in Sunday night from San Diego and spent the night in a sleeping bag on the tarmac next to his friend’s Mooney single-prop piston four-seater.“We’re so lucky to be on a planet where the sun is the perfect size and perfect distance to create that effect,” he said. “It’s obligatory. We have to see it.”

First the Cherry Blossoms, then the eclipse

WASHINGTON − The Cherry Blossoms brought Ali and Aurore Youssouf to the city all the way from Paris, but the pair were delighted to learn that their trip would overlap with the eclipse. The day is extra special for Aurore Youssouf, 43, who has never seen an eclipse before. On Monday morning, the couple arrived by chance at the National Mall early enough to snag a few pairs of free eclipse glasses distributed by the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum for the occasion.“We didn’t even know. We just ended up here and found out that they were giving away some glasses,” said Ali Youssouf, 46.

Awaiting eclipse − and hail − in Texas

KERRVILLE, Texas − Forecasts called for considerable cloudiness, rain and possible hail, but retired NASA engineer Jeff Stone stayed positive as he and his wife prepared to host more than a dozen people for a watch party at their hilltop home in Texas Hill Country. Stone, an eclipse enthusiast who had met family in Missouri to watch the solar eclipse of 2017, said he recently reviewed video footage of that event and said current conditions weren’t that much different than they were back then.

“I’m outside and seeing patches of blue among scattered clouds, so we’re remaining hopeful,” he said.

About 150 miles to the northeast in Gatesville, lead pastor Eric Moffett of Coryell Community Church said a similar forecast did little to deter an expected gathering of about 800 visitors for the church’s family-oriented “Eclipse at the Crosses” event. Many, if not most, were from out of town or even out of country − Canada, Wales, France, Italy. Many locals were staying home to avoid the crowd, he said.

“It’s partly cloudy, but the sun is shining on me right now,” he said. “We are praying that it stays that way.”

− Marc Ramirez

What is the difference between a solar eclipse and a lunar eclipse?

A  total solar eclipse  occurs when the moon comes in between the Earth and the sun, blocking its light from reaching our planet, leading to a period of darkness lasting several minutes. A total lunar eclipse occurs when the moon and the sun are on exact opposite sides of Earth. The Earth blocks the sunlight that normally reaches the moon. Instead of that sunlight hitting the moon’s surface, Earth's shadow falls on it.

A lunar eclipse can last for a few hours, while a solar eclipse lasts only a few minutes. Solar eclipses also rarely occur, while lunar eclipses are comparatively more frequent. While at least two partial lunar eclipses happen every year, total lunar eclipses are still rare, NASA says. Another major difference: No special glasses or gizmos are needed to view the a lunar eclipse, and people can directly stare at the moon.

− Saman Shafiq

Solar eclipse, lunar eclipse: What is the difference?

Can you drive during the solar eclipse?

The  2024 solar eclipse  will shroud much of the United States in darkness on Monday, leaving many people to wonder: Is it safe to drive during the solar eclipse?

It is safe to drive during an eclipse as long as you don't look up at the sky. AAA is telling drivers to be focused on the road if they are operating a car during the total solar eclipse. But the automobile insurance company is advising Americans who want to safely view the total eclipse to "find a safe place to park (not on the side of a road or highway) away from other traffic and then wear your eclipse glasses," said Aixa Diaz, a spokeswoman from AAA.

"Pack your patience, whether traveling a great distance or locally," Diaz said. "People will be out and about to catch a glimpse of the eclipse."

A similar scenario  played out in 2017 during the nation's last total solar eclipse : Congestion in some areas lasted for up to 13 hours after totality,  according to Transportation Research News , a National Research Council publication. An analysis of traffic patterns from that year suggests the worst of the traffic – on interstates and rural back roads alike – will kick off after the eclipse ends and everyone tries to leave all at once.

− Kayla Jimenez

When will the next solar eclipse happen?

It will be 20 years before there's a chance to  witness a total solar eclipse  in the United States again. According to NASA, after Monday's total solar  eclipse , the next one viewable from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Unfortunately, the 2044 total  solar eclipse  won't have the broad reach across the U.S. as the 2024 eclipse. The path of totality during the 2044 eclipse will only touch three states, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy. The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

But another eclipse scheduledfor Saturday, Aug. 12, 2045, will trace a path of totality over California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida and Georgia.

− Mary Walrath-Holdridge, Gabe Hauari and Eric Lagatta

Eclipse and pets: It's not the sky that's the problem

An  eclipse  itself isn't dangerous for domestic animals such as dogs and cats, but experts say it's probably best to not bring pets to  experience the April 2024 total solar eclipse . Experts' biggest concern is not what’s happening in the sky but on the ground as crowds of excited and  eager people gather , said Dr. Rena Carlson, president of the American Veterinary Medical Association. Dogs especially will take their cues from their owners rather than  the celestial event.

“Rather than the effects of the eclipse, I would be more worried about the excitement and all of the people,” Carlson said.

− Elizabeth Weise

A guide to the solar eclipse for kids

Here's an easy-to read, illustrated guide to help kids understand what the  April 8 total solar eclipse  means, where it will be visible and how you can watch it safely. It also shows them how an ordinary kitchen colander can easily be used to view a solar eclipse − the colander's holes can project crescent images of the sun onto the ground. There are even pages that can be downloaded and colored.

Trump's eclipse experience lit up internet in 2017

Seven years ago, when the last  total solar eclipse  crossed over North America, a photo of then-President Donald Trump  seemingly gazing at the sun with his naked eyes set the internet ablaze . During the afternoon of Aug. 21, 2017, Trump, who was president at the time, was joined by then first lady Melania Trump and their son Barron  to watch the rare phenomenon from the Truman Balcony  at the White House. Photos taken by members of the media captured all three donning eclipse glasses while looking at the eclipse.

But at one point during the viewing, the former president was captured in photos and videos without proper eye protection, seemingly gazing directly at the sun. Looking at an eclipse before or after the brief phase of totality without proper eyewear  can lead to eye damage .

− Natalie Neysa Alund

When is the next total solar eclipse? What to know about the next eclipse's path, timing

How to make a solar eclipse viewer

People who didn't manage to get their  hands on glasses  are not completely down and out. There are other safe ways to view the eclipse , say experts, and a lot of them only require a little bit of craftiness and items you can find lying around the house.

Steps to make the cereal box eclipse viewer (And here is a video aid) :

• Get an empty, clean cereal box.
• Cut a white piece of cardboard that will fit snuggly in the bottom of the box, or secure it permanently by gluing it in place.
• Cut the top of the cereal box, removing both ends and leaving the center intact.
• Put a piece of tape across the center of the top to securely hold it closed.
• Tape a piece of heavy-duty foil or double a single layer for additional strength, covering one of the openings at the top of the cereal box. The other opening will remain open for viewing.
• Using a small nail (approximately 3mm in diameter) push a hole in the foil.
• Cover the entire box with construction paper, leaving the single-viewing opening and the foil uncovered.

The finished box should be held with the pin-hole side facing the sun. It may take a little practice pointing the box. With your back facing the sun, look through the viewing opening. A small image of the sun, about ½ cm in diameter, can be seen projected on the white paper inside the box.

− Mary Walrath-Holdrid

What is the path of the solar eclipse called?

Those in the direct line of the eclipse will be treated to an incredible sight as the moon completely blots out the sun's disk, ushering in uncharacteristic darkness and revealing the sun's elusive outermost layer called the corona. That moment is called "totality" and this year the path of totality crosses through 13 U.S. states.

The last total solar eclipse to cut through North America was in August 2017.

How to look at eclipse without glasses

A total solar eclipse offers skygazers the rare opportunity to witness the eclipse with the naked eye. However,  solar eclipse glasses  are still needed until totality is reached. 

Certified solar eclipse  glasses are crucial for spectators to avoid the sun's retina-damaging rays. But when the moon moves completely in front of the sun and blocks its light, you'll know it's  safe to remove the glasses  for a short period of time.

How fast does an eclipse shadow travel?

According to a post from the  National Weather Service  in Indianapolis on X, an eclipse shadow travels at speeds from 1,100 to 5,000 mph. Near the equator, it travels at around 1,100 mph and increases in speed as it approaches the poles.

The eclipse party is over? Time to recycle those glasses!

Astronomers Without Borders , or AWB, a non-profit organization running its second nationwide  eclipse glasses recycling drive . Her business will join over 300 schools, museums, city governments, commercial businesses, community organizations and local libraries that will collect and ship an estimated  millions of glasses  to be repurposed for use by underserved communities around the world in  future solar eclipses .

AWB launched its first run of the program after the last solar eclipse in 2017 when volunteer centers across the country collected millions of the glass. After vetting them for reuse, more than  half a million glasses were distributed to Africa, Asia and South America.

People can visit  AWB's website  to find their nearest participating collection center and learn more about recycling the glasses, said Andrew Fazekas, the organization's communication manager.  

"We figure there's probably going to be tens of millions of glasses out there at the very least," he said. "And most of them are probably very gently used."