BenQ LaptopBar: The Essential Eye Protection Light for Laptop Users – Combatting Screen Strain Effectively
No one desires the discomfort of strained eyes, yet cutting down on screen time isn't always feasible. That's why finding proactive ways to protect my eyes became essential, and proper lighting was the key.
This led me to discover light bars designed to provide ergonomic lighting, reduce screen glare, and enhance my overall desk experience. While there are many options for monitor users, laptop users like me often feel left out. That was until I came across the BenQ LaptopBar Laptop Light – a game-changer in laptop ergonomics.
Initially, I thought monitor lights were more suited for desktop setups. For instance, BenQ's ScreenBar Halo elegantly perches on a monitor, illuminating the keyboard and workspace. But what about us laptop users?
I realised the importance of having sufficient lighting to prevent eye strain. Whether it's a desk lamp, a reading light, or a light bar like the BenQ LaptopBar Laptop Light, the right lighting makes all the difference. I've experimented with anti-glare, softer lights, and even letting natural sunlight flood my workspace.
But using the BenQ LaptopBar Laptop Light has been a revelation. It's not just functional; it's addictive. The way it illuminates my keyboard, outshining the built-in backlight without casting excessive light on the screen, is nothing short of impressive. It's become indispensable to my laptop setup, protecting my eyes while enhancing my work environment.
BenQ LaptopBar Unboxing Experience: Eco-Friendly Packaging Meets Elegant Design
Unboxing the BenQ LaptopBar, I was immediately struck by its elegantly minimalist and 100% recyclable packaging. Inside, the lamp head and body were neatly separated, accompanied by thoughtful accessories. The package contains:
- A light lamp
- A battery (lamp body)
- A USB Type-C to Type-C cable.
- A sleek carry pouch.
- Two magnetic patches for effortless attachment.
- A cleaning cloth.
- An easy-to-follow instruction card for patch application.
- A quick start guide to get things up and running smoothly.
The attention to detail in the packaging mirrored the sophistication I was about to experience with the Benq LaptopBar itself.
Design and Build Quality: A Blend of Elegance and Durability in Laptop Lighting
The premium feel of the BenQ LaptopBar was unmistakable, justifying its price tag. It's crafted from aluminium alloy and polycarbonate, and the build quality is impressive. It's more than just sturdy; even the moving parts feel robust, easily supporting the lamp head's weight. Its lightweight design is a significant plus because it's an accessory for a laptop. Weighing just about 180g, it's lighter than most smartphones, ensuring it doesn't exert undue pressure on the laptop's hinges.
Its clip-free design sets the BenQ LaptopBar apart from other laptop-designed products. Instead, it relies entirely on magnetic attachment. I initially wondered how effective this would be. But to my surprise, the accessory remained securely in place, even when moving my laptop around.
Another aspect that caught my attention was the almost invisible buttons on the BenQ LaptopBar. The sleek touch panel features a multifunction button and a slider that subtly lights up upon activation. This minimalist, user-friendly design approach is aesthetically pleasing and functional, underscored by the product winning the Good Design award.
Effortless Setup Guide for the BenQ LaptopBar: A User's Experience
Embarking on the setup journey of the BenQ LaptopBar, I was pleasantly surprised by its simplicity. For someone who isn't particularly tech-savvy, the absence of clips, clamps, or any need for screwing parts together was a relief. Of course, I still took the time to consult the manual – a step I'd recommend to anyone, regardless of their technical expertise.
The process begins with two magnetic patches. The first task was to attach one of these patches to my laptop. After adhering the magnetic patch, I let it sit for about twenty minutes to ensure a strong bond – a small but crucial step in the setup.
Next came the satisfying part: magnetically attach the lamp head and the body with the positioning grooves facing me, making it almost intuitive. Finally, I attached the assembled unit to the magnetic patch on my laptop. And just like that, it was all set up.
The whole process was straightforward and hassle-free, a testament to the user-friendly design of the BenQ LaptopBar. It's not just an accessory; it's a seamless extension of my laptop, enhancing my workspace without any technical intimidation.
Setup Steps
- Attach the adhesive magnet patch to your laptop.
- Magnetically connect the lamp body/battery to the magnet patch (which has positioning grooves to make it easy to adjust its height on the back of the laptop).
- Magnetically attach the light lamp to the lamp body.
- With a simple hover of your hand 2 cm above the lamp, it's on and ready to use.
BenQ LaptopBar: Revolutionizing Portable Laptop Lighting”
- Lightweight Design: Weighs only 180g, making it highly portable for on-the-go use.
- Magnetic Attachment: Innovative magnetic system for easy, secure attachment to laptops.
- Adjustable Brightness: Customisable brightness levels to suit different working environments.
- Variable Colour Temperature: Offers a range of colour temperatures from warm to cool light.
- Foldable Arm: Provides flexibility in adjusting the height and angle of the light.
- Compact and Sleek: Minimalist design that complements modern laptops and workspaces.
- Durable Build: Constructed from high-quality aluminium alloy and polycarbonate for longevity.
- User-Friendly Controls: Intuitive touch controls for easy adjustment of settings.
- Auto-Dimming Feature: Smart technology that adjusts brightness based on light conditions.
- Eco-Friendly Packaging: Comes in 100% recyclable packaging
● Net Weight (kg): 0.18
● Power Input: 5V / max.1.5A USB Port
● Power Consumption: max.7.5W
● Power Supply: USB
● Light Source: Dual Color LED
● Color Rendering Index: Ra≥95
● Illuminance: Center Illuminance 700lux (Height 30cm)
● Lighting Coverage (At 500 Lux): 34cm x 25cm
● Product Color: Black, White
● Materials: Aluminum alloy, Polycarbonate
Design and Portability
The BenQ LaptopBar is a testament to innovative design and portability in the realm of laptop accessories. Weighing a mere 180g, it's lighter than most smartphones, making it an ideal companion for the on-the-go professional. Its sleek, minimalist design not only complements any laptop but also adds a touch of sophistication to your workspace. The magnetic attachment system is particularly noteworthy, offering a hassle-free setup that's both secure and gentle on your laptop's exterior.
Lighting Quality and User Experience
When it comes to lighting quality, the BenQ LaptopBar truly shines. Its adjustable brightness and colour temperature settings allow for a tailored lighting experience, reducing eye strain during long work sessions. The light is evenly distributed, ensuring a well-lit workspace without overwhelming glare. The touch controls are intuitive and responsive, adding to the overall user-friendly experience. Whether working in a dimly lit room or a bustling café, the LaptopBar provides consistent and comfortable illumination.
Durability and Overall Value
In terms of durability, the BenQ LaptopBar stands out with its robust build quality. Made from high-grade aluminium alloy and polycarbonate, it's designed to withstand the rigours of daily use. The foldable arm and compact form factor contribute to its longevity, protecting it during travel. While the price point may be a consideration, the combination of exceptional build quality, versatile lighting options, and ease of use make the BenQ LaptopBar a valuable investment for anyone seeking to enhance their mobile workspace.
BestReviews Editor's Brief Take on the BenQ LaptopBar
The BenQ LaptopBar it has proven to be an exceptional accessory for enhancing the laptop user experience. Its lightweight design and innovative magnetic attachment system make it incredibly portable and easy to set up. The adjustable brightness and colour temperature settings are a boon for eye comfort, especially during prolonged use. The foldable arm adds to its versatility, allowing for optimal light positioning. With its sleek design and robust build quality, the BenQ LaptopBar is not just a functional tool but also a stylish addition to any workspace. Whether for professional or personal use, it's a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to improve their laptop environment.
My Two-Week Experience with the BenQ LaptopBar: A Comprehensive Review (Features & Performance)
After spending two weeks with the BenQ LaptopBar, I've found it an incredibly useful accessory, especially for someone who is always on the go.
Portability and Weight
I tested its portability during travels to Sabah, Malaysia, and Shenzhen, China. It was an invaluable travel companion, weighing just around 180g and boasting a compact size (approximately 23.7 cm in width and 11.5 cm in height when folded). It was a lifesaver in dimly lit hotel rooms or airport lounges.
Magnetic Attachment
The BenQ LaptopBar's magnetic attachment is a stroke of genius. As laptop bezels get thinner, this design choice is practical and safeguards against obstructing the webcam or damaging the screen during removal.
Foldable Arm
The foldable arm of the BenQ LaptopBar Light Bar is another highlight. It allows for minor adjustments to the light angle in its folded state. When expanded, it offers greater height and angle flexibility, letting me tailor the lighting to my exact needs at any moment.
Temperature, Brightness Adjustment, and Auto-Dimming
The ability to adjust the colour temperature (from 2700k to 5700k) and brightness (up to 800 lux) via a simple slide on the touch bar is incredibly user-friendly. The auto-dimming feature, which adjusts brightness based on ambient light while maintaining the set colour temperature, is particularly impressive. It even remembers my preferred brightness settings for future use.
Battery Life
The battery unit, resembling a power bank with a foldable stand, is compact yet efficient. It features USB Type-C ports and LED indicators for battery life. The battery performance is commendable – on full brightness, I got around 3 hours, and at 35-40% brightness, it lasted about 4 hours, aligning well with BenQ's claims.
While I prefer a slightly longer battery life, perhaps lasting 3 hours at 50% brightness, the quick charging and the ability to use it while plugged in make up for it. Overall, the battery experience meets office work and travel demands.
Editor's Final Thoughts: How the BenQ LaptopBar Revolutionised My Work and Travel
Before I embarked on this review, the concept of a laptop light was foreign to me. However, having used the BenQ LaptopBar for the past two weeks, I've been pleasantly surprised by its numerous benefits.
As a frequent traveller, I often work in hotel rooms with less-than-ideal lighting. Extended work periods on my laptop under such conditions would leave me feeling drained and uncomfortable after just a few hours. The screen's glare was a constant challenge, contributing to my discomfort.
This all changed when I integrated the BenQ LaptopBar into my mobile workspace. The improvement in my work performance was immediate and significant. The BenQ LaptopBar's design is compact and portable, featuring a magnetic structure that simplifies assembly and disassembly – a godsend for someone constantly moving. This ease of use distinguishes it from other laptop lights I've encountered on the market.
Investing in the BenQ LaptopBar Light Bar: A Wise Choice?
Priced at S$229, the BenQ LaptopBar might initially seem like a hefty investment. However, what you're paying for is superior design and the comfort it brings to your eyes. As I've aged, I've become increasingly aware of how quickly my eyes tire after a day spent in front of a screen. The BenQ LaptopBar has been instrumental in alleviating this fatigue, making my work sessions far more comfortable and productive.
In summary, the BenQ LaptopBar has not just been a tool; it's been a revelation in how I approach work at home and while travelling. It's an investment that pays dividends in productivity, comfort, and overall eye health.
