The Advantages of a Neon Desk Lamp

Energy Efficiency

• The biggest advantage neon desk lamps have over traditional lamps is that they use very little energy. Traditional lamps use electricity as the light source. Neon lamps, however, create light via the interaction of gases with electricity, so not nearly as much energy is needed. It is estimated that neon bulbs use approximately 50 percent less energy than traditional light bulbs in a given year.

Long Lives

• Neon bulbs have a much longer lifespan than traditional bulbs. This is attributed to their use of gas to produce light. The gas deteriorates very slowly, with some neon bulbs capable of lasting over a decade. The average lifespan for a neon lamp is between six months and one year of straight light. A neon bulb is more likely to fail early because of electrical wiring issues than because it simply runs out of neon gas.

Range of Power Sources

• Traditional bulbs must have a standard voltage of power to operate, like 12V. They cannot be lit with any other amount of voltage. Neon bulbs, however, are operable at a much wider variety of voltages. This flexibility means that neon desk lamps can use a variety of power sources, like batteries.

Aesthetic Appeal

• Neon desk lamps are often shaped and colored to resemble your favorite sports team, movie, favorite beer or any number of things. This gives a touch of personality to your desk as well as a conversation piece for your room, dorm or office.

Disadvantages

• Neon desk lamps will undoubtedly be more expensive than most traditional lamps. This is because of the complexity of construction that goes into them. Neon desk lamps that use multiple colors or shapes will inevitably cost more than simple one-bulb traditional lamps. While they produce a very bright light, the light does not travel very far and as such they are not practical for helping you see your notes in the dark.