(checked 2026-10-10)
The original BenQ light bar and How-To Geek's best overall pick, with auto-dimming and controls on the bar. It costs more than similar bars, and curved-monitor fit is hit-or-miss.
Top complaints
- Mixed fit on curved monitors
How-To Geek lists 'mixed results on compatibility with curved monitors' as a con and notes some curved-monitor users reported problems.
Source: How-To Geek - Pricey for a basic bar
How-To Geek lists 'pricey compared to similar light bars' as a con ($109 at the time).
Source: How-To Geek - Narrow monitor-thickness range
How-To Geek says it fits flat or curved monitors 0.4 to 1.2 inches thick, narrower than the newer Pro (0.17-2.56 in per XDA).
What owners love
- Auto-dimming and fine adjustment
How-To Geek notes 15 brightness levels, 8 color-temperature levels (2,700-8,500 K) and auto-dimming toward 500 lux, peaking at 900 lux in the center.
Source: How-To Geek - Durable build, tool-free clamp
How-To Geek lists 'durable, premium build quality' as a pro; it clamps on without tools and runs from any 5V/1A USB port.
Source: How-To Geek - Few unhappy owners
About 4,500 Amazon ratings, with only 2% at 1 or 2 stars.
Source: Amazon.com product page
- You have a curved or very thick monitor
- You want a remote or backlight
- You're on a tight budget
- Flat monitors 0.4-1.2 in thick
- People who like buttons on the bar itself
- A proven, long-selling model
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- How-To Geek: Best monitor light bar overall (updated March 2025): durable with auto-dimming, but pricey and mixed on curved monitors.
- XDA Developers: Positions the newer ScreenBar Pro between this model and the Halo.