BenQ Piano Light Review: Is This Smart Piano Light Worth the Hype?

This review dives into the BenQ Piano Light, a smart piano lamp promising convenience and superior illumination. We unpack the device, examining its build quality, design, and ease of setup. From initial impressions to in-depth usage, we assess its performance against expectations, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses. This detailed analysis explores key features such as auto-brightness, adjustable color temperature, and light distribution, providing a comprehensive understanding of the user experience.Is the BenQ Piano Light worth its premium price tag? This review investigates whether its sleek design, convenient features, and high-quality build justify the cost. We compare its performance to other piano lights on the market, considering factors like light uniformity, ease of use, and longevity. Ultimately, we aim to equip you with the necessary information to determine if the BenQ Piano Light is the right choice for your musical needs and budget.

Read more: Illuminating Your Piano: 5 LED Piano Lamps

Unboxing and First Impressions

Upon opening the package, the BenQ Piano Light appeared smaller than anticipated. Its compact design was a pleasant surprise, contrasting with the larger-than-expected weight, suggesting a sturdy build. Initial inspection revealed a surprisingly well-designed unit with features like a ball joint and a stiff hinge, promising excellent adjustability.

Close-up of the BenQ Piano Light after unboxing, showing its compact size.
Close-up of the BenQ Piano Light after unboxing, showing its compact size.

The included visor, a component to block light from the eyes, also seemed promising. The light itself had several control buttons for brightness, color temperature, and other settings. Overall, the unboxing and initial assessment suggested a quality product although slightly small.

Comparison shot of the BenQ Piano Light next to the reviewer's existing piano light, highlighting the size difference.
Comparison shot of the BenQ Piano Light next to the reviewer's existing piano light, highlighting the size difference.

Compared to my existing light, the BenQ model was notably more compact yet heavier. The overall feel was much more premium. The initial setup was simple and intuitive; the light easily attached to the piano. However, this smaller size created a need to look closely at what this smaller size might mean for the usability of the device.

The BenQ Piano Light being carefully removed from its packaging.
The BenQ Piano Light being carefully removed from its packaging.

Performance and Features

The BenQ Piano Light offers several impressive features, including auto-brightness and adjustable color temperature. The auto-brightness function responded well to ambient lighting changes, providing consistently comfortable illumination. Color temperature adjustment allowed for a range of warm to cool lighting options, catering to personal preferences.

Close-up of the keyboard, showing uneven lighting distribution from the BenQ Piano Light.
Close-up of the keyboard, showing uneven lighting distribution from the BenQ Piano Light.

However, the light distribution was uneven, with brighter illumination directly beneath the light and less illumination at the keyboard's edges. Although the frosted LEDs helped mitigate this issue, it was still noticeable. A slight rattling sound from the light during key presses was also a drawback.

The light's overall performance is exceptional. It is easily adjustable for height and angle, accommodating pianos of varying sizes. The automatic on/off feature based on proximity is convenient for lesson-based users.

Pros and Cons

Pros: Sleek and minimalist design, even and glare-free lighting, easy-to-use controls, auto-brightness and adjustable color temperature, solid build quality, convenient auto-on/off feature, no LED flicker.

Comparison of the size and profile of the BenQ light and the reviewer's previous light.
Comparison of the size and profile of the BenQ light and the reviewer's previous light.

Cons: High price point, uneven light distribution (though mitigated by frosted LEDs), limited dimming range, color temperature adjustment doesn't auto-adjust based on ambient light.

The BenQ Piano Light is exceptionally compact, but also heavy enough that it is not easily knocked over or moved. The overall design and look is sleek and modern.

Final Verdict

The BenQ Piano Light is a premium product with a higher price tag to match. While the features are convenient, the high price might not be justified for users seeking a basic piano light. However, those who value even lighting, adjustable color temperature, auto-brightness, and a long-lasting, high-quality design will find it worthwhile.

Despite some minor drawbacks such as uneven light distribution and limited dimming capabilities, the overall quality and features make this light a strong contender for serious pianists or music educators. The convenience and professional feel easily justify the price point.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase the BenQ Piano Light depends on individual needs and budget. The quality of the light and the convenience of the features are worth considering in comparison to the higher price point.