Reading without straining your eyes
Small print, crosswords, letters, medication leaflets: when close work becomes harder, a combination helps that a magnifier alone cannot offer – magnification and light together. The second part is often underestimated: a great deal of visual comfort simply comes from more, and more even, light.
The basics of lens strength are covered in detail in Focal length, magnification and working distance and in Which diopter suits you? – this article is about what makes this particular application special.
Why a magnifying lamp rather than a hand magnifier?
- Both hands stay free – for turning pages, writing or holding
- A constant distance – no shaking, no readjusting
- Its own light – independent of room light and daylight
- Less tiring during longer reading sessions
Which strength is the right one?
For reading we tend to recommend the lower strengths: at 3 diopters a large section stays visible, often a whole column of text. With 8 diopters you do see things larger, but only a few words at a time – which makes reading more laborious rather than easier.
| Strength | Field of view | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| 3 diopters | large | books, newspapers, longer texts |
| 5 diopters | medium | small print, package leaflets, needlework |
| 8 diopters | small | individual details, short glances |
Important: a magnifying lamp is not a substitute for a low-vision aid from an optician, nor for an eye examination. If you have a diagnosed visual impairment, please talk to your optician or ophthalmologist – magnifying aids are specified differently depending on the findings.
For the living room and for care settings
For reading in an armchair, a roll stand works well: the lamp can be pulled over and pushed away again without anything having to be mounted. For a fixed place at a desk, a version with a table clamp is enough.
In care homes and senior residences the mobile version has proven itself, because several residents benefit from it and it is easy to clean.
Frequently asked questions
Is the light dazzling?
No. The LEDs sit in a ring around the lens and illuminate what you are reading, not your eyes. Daylight-white light around 6500 K increases contrast; if you prefer something warmer, choose a version around 3500 K.
How heavy is the lamp?
Depending on the model, roughly 2 to 3 kilograms without a stand. On a roll stand it stands securely but can still be moved without effort.
What if I have chosen the wrong strength?
Simply get in touch with us. We would rather you had a lamp that suits you than one that ends up in a cupboard.
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