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- Best overall: AOC 24G2SP 23.8-inch Full HD IPS Gaming Monitor
- Best budget: Xiaomi Mi Computer Monitor Light Bar
- Best premium: BenQ ScreenBar Halo e-Reading Lamp
- Best for automatic lighting: BenQ ScreenBar Pro e-Reading Lamp
- The BenQ ScreenBar e-Reading Lamp is a monitor-mounted light, while the AOC 24G2SP is a 23.8-inch gaming monitor; the products serve different needs.
- Choose the AOC 24G2SP for a 165Hz Full HD display, or choose a ScreenBar model to light a desk without placing a lamp on it.
- The BenQ ScreenBar Halo e-Reading Lamp adds rear lighting and a wireless controller for a more adjustable desk setup.
- The Xiaomi Mi Computer Monitor Light Bar and Quntis Monitor Light Bar PRO+ are alternatives for shoppers prioritizing adjustable monitor lighting.
- Compare screen fit, controls, refresh rate, and stand adjustment before choosing a Black Friday 2026 upgrade.
The BenQ ScreenBar and AOC 24G2SP are not direct substitutes: the BenQ ScreenBar e-Reading Lamp lights a desk from the top of a monitor, while the AOC 24G2SP 23.8-inch Full HD IPS Gaming Monitor replaces the display itself. For Black Friday 2026, the right choice depends on whether the current screen needs an upgrade or the desk needs better task lighting.
I researched and compared specifications, reviews, and owner feedback to assemble this guide to monitor light bars and affordable gaming displays. My pick for most people is the AOC 24G2SP for shoppers seeking a high-refresh-rate screen; the BenQ ScreenBar Halo is the standout for people who already like their monitor and want a tidier lighting setup. Each product below has a distinct use, with key specifications and trade-offs called out.
How We Picked
- Compared core specifications, including display resolution and refresh rate for monitors, and controls and lighting features for light bars.
- Prioritized products with clear use cases, such as replacing an older display or adding task lighting without using desk space.
- Reviewed owner feedback for recurring setup, fit, and usability themes rather than treating one review as representative.
- Considered compatibility factors, including monitor shape, screen size, connection options, and stand adjustment.
- Selected products across entry-level and feature-rich categories to give Black Friday 2026 shoppers practical alternatives.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Product type | Main specification | Control or refresh rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BenQ ScreenBar e-Reading Lamp | Basic task lighting | Monitor light bar | 500 lux at 50 cm | Auto-dimming |
| BenQ ScreenBar Halo e-Reading Lamp | Front and rear lighting | Monitor light with backlight | 2 lighting zones | Wireless dial |
| BenQ ScreenBar Pro e-Reading Lamp | Automatic lighting | Monitor light bar | Presence detection | USB-C |
| Xiaomi Mi Computer Monitor Light Bar | Adjustable lighting value | Monitor light bar | 3 color temperatures | Wireless remote |
| Quntis Monitor Light Bar PRO+ | Simple adjustable lighting | Monitor light bar | 3 color modes | USB powered |
| AOC 24G2SP 23.8-inch Full HD IPS Gaming Monitor | High-refresh-rate Full HD gaming | Gaming monitor | 1920 × 1080 | 165Hz |
| LG 24GN650-B 24-inch Full HD UltraGear Gaming Monitor | 144Hz Full HD gaming | Gaming monitor | 1920 × 1080 | 144Hz |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1
BenQ ScreenBar e-Reading Lamp
The BenQ ScreenBar e-Reading Lamp is the best simple monitor light for desk workers, with a reported 500-lux illumination level at 50 centimeters.
Best for: A clean desk and focused task lighting
- Product type
- Monitor light bar
- Illuminance
- 500 lux at 50 cm
- Power
- USB powered
- Light direction
- Asymmetric optical design
- Frees desk space compared with a standing lamp.
- Auto-dimming adjusts brightness to ambient light.
- Designed to reduce screen glare.
- No rear ambient light or wireless controller.
Is the BenQ ScreenBar e-Reading Lamp worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The BenQ ScreenBar e-Reading Lamp is worth considering for anyone who wants focused desk lighting without adding a floor or table lamp. The BenQ ScreenBar e-Reading Lamp's USB power and automatic dimming suit everyday work, but it does not include the Halo model’s rear lighting.
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#2
BenQ ScreenBar Halo e-Reading Lamp
The BenQ ScreenBar Halo e-Reading Lamp is the best premium monitor light for adjustable desk ambiance, with front and rear lighting zones.
Best for: Front task lighting plus rear ambient light
- Product type
- Monitor light with backlight
- Lighting zones
- 2
- Control
- Wireless dial
- Power
- USB powered
- Combines desk illumination and rear bias lighting.
- Wireless dial supports convenient brightness and color adjustment.
- Keeps a separate lamp off the desk.
- Costs more than simpler single-zone light bars.
Is the BenQ ScreenBar Halo e-Reading Lamp worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The BenQ ScreenBar Halo e-Reading Lamp is worth buying for a desk setup that needs both task lighting and a softer glow behind the monitor. The wireless dial makes adjustment convenient, while the added rear light is less useful for shoppers seeking only basic illumination.
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#3
BenQ ScreenBar Pro e-Reading Lamp
The BenQ ScreenBar Pro e-Reading Lamp is the best feature-focused light bar for frequent desk users, with automatic presence detection.
Best for: Automatic lighting control
- Product type
- Monitor light bar
- Presence detection
- Automatic on and off
- Power
- USB-C
- Light direction
- Asymmetric illumination
- Presence detection reduces routine manual switching.
- USB-C power fits modern desk accessories.
- Designed to illuminate the work surface rather than the display.
- Automatic features add little value for users who prefer manual controls.
Is the BenQ ScreenBar Pro e-Reading Lamp worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The BenQ ScreenBar Pro e-Reading Lamp is worth considering for people who want monitor lighting with automatic presence detection and USB-C power. Check monitor compatibility and available USB power before choosing it, especially when the desk already has a preferred lighting routine.
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#4
Xiaomi Mi Computer Monitor Light Bar
The Xiaomi Mi Computer Monitor Light Bar is the best value-focused monitor light for compact desks, with 3 color-temperature settings.
Best for: Adjustable lighting on a budget
- Product type
- Monitor light bar
- Color temperatures
- 3 settings
- Control
- Wireless remote
- Power
- USB powered
- Wireless remote keeps adjustments within easy reach.
- Multiple color temperatures suit different work preferences.
- Mounting above the display saves desktop space.
- Monitor fit and USB power access need checking before purchase.
Is the Xiaomi Mi Computer Monitor Light Bar worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Xiaomi Mi Computer Monitor Light Bar is worth considering for shoppers who want adjustable color temperature and remote control in a compact setup. Confirm that its mounting clip fits the monitor and that a suitable USB power port is available on the desk.
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#5
Quntis Monitor Light Bar PRO+
The Quntis Monitor Light Bar PRO+ is the best alternative for adjustable front lighting, with 3 color-temperature modes.
Best for: A straightforward adjustable light bar
- Product type
- Monitor light bar
- Color-temperature modes
- 3
- Mounting
- Top-of-monitor clip
- Power
- USB powered
- Adds task lighting without occupying desk surface.
- Color modes provide a choice of warmer or cooler light.
- Simple clip-on format suits a tidy workstation.
- Check monitor thickness and webcam clearance for fit.
Is the Quntis Monitor Light Bar PRO+ worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Quntis Monitor Light Bar PRO+ is worth considering when adjustable front lighting matters more than extra ambient features. The Quntis Monitor Light Bar PRO+'s clip-on design leaves desk space clear; measure the monitor edge and check webcam placement before selecting a light bar.
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#6 · Top pick
AOC 24G2SP 23.8-inch Full HD IPS Gaming Monitor
The AOC 24G2SP 23.8-inch Full HD IPS Gaming Monitor is the best display upgrade for mainstream gaming, with a 165Hz refresh rate.
Best for: Full HD gaming and everyday computing
- Screen size
- 23.8 inches
- Resolution
- 1920 × 1080
- Refresh rate
- 165Hz
- Panel type
- IPS
- 165Hz refresh rate supports smooth compatible gameplay.
- IPS panel offers wide viewing angles.
- Height-adjustable stand supports a more ergonomic position.
- Full HD is less detailed than higher-resolution monitors.
Is the AOC 24G2SP 23.8-inch Full HD IPS Gaming Monitor worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The AOC 24G2SP 23.8-inch Full HD IPS Gaming Monitor is worth considering for shoppers who want a 165Hz gaming display and do not need a resolution above Full HD. The AOC monitor upgrades the screen; it does not replace the desk-lighting role of a BenQ ScreenBar.
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#7
LG 24GN650-B 24-inch Full HD UltraGear Gaming Monitor
The LG 24GN650-B 24-inch Full HD UltraGear Gaming Monitor is the best alternative display for PC gaming, with a 144Hz refresh rate.
Best for: A 144Hz IPS gaming monitor
- Screen size
- 23.8 inches
- Resolution
- 1920 × 1080
- Refresh rate
- 144Hz
- Panel type
- IPS
- 144Hz refresh rate supports responsive gaming.
- IPS panel provides broad viewing angles.
- Ergonomic stand supports height and tilt adjustment.
- Refresh rate is lower than the AOC 24G2SP's 165Hz.
Is the LG 24GN650-B 24-inch Full HD UltraGear Gaming Monitor worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The LG 24GN650-B 24-inch Full HD UltraGear Gaming Monitor is worth considering for shoppers who want a Full HD IPS screen with a 144Hz refresh rate and an adjustable stand. Compare its connections and stand features with the AOC 24G2SP before deciding.
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What is the difference between the BenQ ScreenBar and AOC 24G2SP?
The BenQ ScreenBar e-Reading Lamp is a monitor-mounted light, while the AOC 24G2SP 23.8-inch Full HD IPS Gaming Monitor is a 165Hz display. The BenQ product adds task lighting to a screen you already own; the AOC product replaces or upgrades the screen.
Choose a BenQ ScreenBar model when the monitor is satisfactory but the desk needs more comfortable lighting or a clearer surface. Choose the AOC 24G2SP when refresh rate, screen condition, or gaming performance is the priority. A monitor light bar can pair with the AOC display if the clip fits its top edge, so the products also work together rather than competing directly.
Which BenQ ScreenBar model should you choose?
The BenQ ScreenBar e-Reading Lamp suits simple task lighting, the BenQ ScreenBar Halo e-Reading Lamp adds rear illumination, and the BenQ ScreenBar Pro e-Reading Lamp adds automatic presence detection. Those differences matter more than the shared monitor-top format.
Pick the standard BenQ ScreenBar for a straightforward work light, the Halo for a combination of front and back lighting, or the Pro for automatic switching. Check the monitor’s edge shape and available USB power first. Curved or unusually thick displays, webcams, and other accessories can affect how a bar mounts and where its light falls.
Is the AOC 24G2SP a good Black Friday 2026 monitor pick?
The AOC 24G2SP 23.8-inch Full HD IPS Gaming Monitor is a solid shortlist option for Full HD gaming, with a 165Hz refresh rate and an IPS panel. Those specifications suit players who value smoother motion and broad viewing angles over a higher pixel count.
The AOC monitor is best matched with a computer that can drive games at high frame rates; refresh rate alone does not guarantee that performance. Compare the AOC display’s connections, stand adjustment, and desk footprint with the setup already in place. Shoppers who prioritize sharper text or more workspace should compare higher-resolution displays before settling on Full HD.
Which monitor light bar is best for a compact desk?
The BenQ ScreenBar e-Reading Lamp, Xiaomi Mi Computer Monitor Light Bar, and Quntis Monitor Light Bar PRO+ all mount above a screen to keep a separate lamp off the desk. The Xiaomi model offers a wireless remote and three color-temperature settings.
Match the light bar’s clip to the monitor’s thickness and shape, and check whether a webcam sits on the same edge. A monitor light bar directs illumination toward the work surface, while a display backlight adds a glow behind the screen. People who want both effects should compare the BenQ ScreenBar Halo e-Reading Lamp with single-zone options.
How should you compare Black Friday 2026 monitor upgrades?
Compare the AOC 24G2SP and LG 24GN650-B by screen resolution, refresh rate, panel type, stand adjustment, and connections; compare monitor light bars by fit, controls, and lighting zones. Matching the product to the upgrade need prevents a light bar from being mistaken for a display replacement.
For a monitor, check that the computer supports the desired resolution and refresh rate through its available ports. For a light bar, verify clip clearance, USB power, and control preferences. Black Friday 2026 is a useful point to compare those features against current desk needs, rather than choosing a product on its category label alone.
Buying Guide
Decide whether the screen or the desk needs an upgrade
The AOC 24G2SP upgrades the display, while the BenQ ScreenBar e-Reading Lamp upgrades desk lighting. Choose a monitor for better screen performance and a light bar for a brighter work surface.
Match refresh rate to your computer
The AOC 24G2SP offers 165Hz and the LG 24GN650-B offers 144Hz, both at 1920 × 1080. Check that the computer and connection support the refresh rate you want.
Check the monitor light bar’s mounting fit
Measure monitor thickness and check its top-edge shape before choosing the BenQ ScreenBar, Xiaomi, or Quntis option. Leave clearance for a webcam or other accessories.
Choose controls you will use
The BenQ ScreenBar Halo uses a wireless dial, the Xiaomi light bar has a wireless remote, and the BenQ ScreenBar Pro adds presence detection. A simpler control layout is enough for many desks.
Confirm the full desk setup
Check USB power, monitor connections, stand adjustment, and available desk depth. Those details help establish whether a new display or a light bar will fit the existing workspace.
FAQ
BenQ ScreenBar vs AOC 24G2SP: which is better for Black Friday 2026?
The AOC 24G2SP 23.8-inch Full HD IPS Gaming Monitor is better for shoppers replacing a screen, while the BenQ ScreenBar e-Reading Lamp is better for shoppers adding task lighting. The products solve different problems and can also be used together.
Does the AOC 24G2SP include a monitor light?
The AOC 24G2SP 23.8-inch Full HD IPS Gaming Monitor is a display, not a monitor light bar. A separate product such as the BenQ ScreenBar e-Reading Lamp or Xiaomi Mi Computer Monitor Light Bar adds desk illumination, subject to clip and webcam clearance.
Is a 165Hz monitor better than a monitor light bar?
The AOC 24G2SP’s 165Hz refresh rate improves the display experience for compatible gaming setups; a monitor light bar serves a separate lighting purpose. Choose the AOC monitor for screen performance and a light bar for desk illumination.
Which monitor light bar has rear lighting?
The BenQ ScreenBar Halo e-Reading Lamp includes front task lighting and rear ambient lighting. The standard BenQ ScreenBar e-Reading Lamp focuses on front illumination, making the Halo a better fit for shoppers who want both lighting zones.
What should I check before buying a monitor light bar?
Check monitor thickness, top-edge shape, webcam clearance, and USB power before buying the BenQ ScreenBar, Xiaomi, or Quntis light bar. Confirming those details helps avoid mounting conflicts and ensures the desk has a suitable power connection.
Is the LG 24GN650-B a good alternative to the AOC 24G2SP?
The LG 24GN650-B 24-inch Full HD UltraGear Gaming Monitor is a reasonable alternative for shoppers seeking a 144Hz IPS display. The AOC 24G2SP offers a higher 165Hz refresh rate, so compare stand adjustment and connections alongside refresh rate.