Shopping guide: 8 key considerations when purchasing a work light

1. Light Intensity & Luminous Flux (Lumens)
   A strong light source with at least 1000 lumens is crucial for properly illuminating your workspace. This level of brightness helps you avoid shadows and ensures you won’t miss any important details while painting, wallpapering, or tackling other precision tasks.
   
   
2. Color Temperature
   A neutral or cool color temperature, around 5000K to 6500K, is ideal for tasks like painting and wallpapering because it closely replicates daylight. This makes it easier to see colors as they will appear in natural light.
   
   
3. Adjustment & Flexibility
   Look for a work light that’s easy to adjust in both height and angle. A flexible arm or stand allows you to direct the beam exactly where you need it most, whether you’re focusing on a detailed corner or illuminating a wide surface area.
   
   
4. Portability
   If you’ll be moving the light frequently—perhaps between rooms or from indoors to outdoors—choose a model that’s lightweight and easy to carry. Portability also matters if you’re working on ladders or in tight spaces where maneuverability is key.
   
   
5. Shadow-Free Lighting
   Choose a lamp that distributes light evenly across your work area. An even spread reduces harsh shadows, allowing you to see and execute detailed work accurately.
   
   
6. Energy Efficiency
   LED lights are highly efficient and generate less heat, making them a comfortable option for longer projects. They also help keep energy costs down in the long run.
   
   
7. Power Supply
   Decide whether you need a battery-powered work light or one that plugs into an outlet. Battery-powered lights offer greater flexibility—especially if you’re working in areas without convenient power access—but make sure the battery life meets your needs.
   
   
8. IP Rating (Ingress Protection)
   If you plan on using your work light in dusty or damp conditions, check its IP rating. A higher IP rating indicates better dust and water resistance. For typical indoor DIY projects, IP44 (protected against splashing water) often suffices, but if you need more robust protection for outdoor work, consider IP65 or higher.

By taking lumens, color temperature, adjustability, portability, shadow-free lighting, energy efficiency, power supply, and IP rating into account, you’ll be well on your way to finding a work light that suits your specific needs.