BenQ ScreenBar Plus Monitor Light vs Elgato Key Light Air (2026)
Which is better? We compared both on score, owner ratings, pros and cons.
BenQ ScreenBar Plus Monitor Light
Asymmetric optical design. Auto-dimming. Wireless dial controller. Zero screen glare.
Full Review
Elgato Key Light Air
1400 lumens, app-controlled, eliminates shadows on video calls. The streamer's key light standard.
Full ReviewAt a Glance
| BenQ ScreenBar Plus Monitor Light | Elgato Key Light Air | |
|---|---|---|
| 247Verdict Score | 9.2/10 | 8.9/10 |
| Owner Rating | 4.6★ (16,800) | 4.5★ (12,300) |
| Verdict | Excellent | Great |
| Control | Wireless dial | App (iOS/Android/desktop) |
| Power | USB-A (5V/1A) | AC adapter |
| Colour Temp | 2700K-6500K | 2900K–7000K |
| Warranty | 3 years | 2 years |
Quick Verdict
Both are strong choices, but the BenQ ScreenBar Plus Monitor Light edges ahead with a 9.2/10 vs 8.9/10. Asymmetric optical design. Auto-dimming. Wireless dial controller. Zero screen glare. That said, the Elgato Key Light Air is worth considering if 1400 lumens, app-controlled, eliminates shadows on video calls. The streamer's key light standard. Check the current price on Amazon →
Pros & Cons Side by Side
BenQ ScreenBar Plus Monitor Light
- Asymmetric optical design illuminates desk without any light on screen — eliminates glare completely
- Auto-dimming sensor adjusts brightness based on ambient light automatically
- Wireless dial controller for brightness and colour temperature without touching the bar
- No driver installation — powers via USB-A, works with any monitor
- Dual colour temperature modes (warm/cool/auto) for day/night comfort
- Premium pricing for a monitor light
- Wireless controller requires AAA batteries
- Clamp may not fit monitors with very thick bezels
Elgato Key Light Air
- 1400 lumens produces professional studio-quality lighting for video calls and streaming
- App control adjusts brightness (0-100%) and colour temperature (2900-7000K) from phone or desktop
- Eliminates face shadows that make call participants look dim or unprofessional
- Desk-clamp mount fits most desk edges without drilling
- Works with Elgato Stream Deck for one-button scene changes
- Only lights your face — you'll still need a desk lamp for the workspace
- The stand/clamp arm is flimsy at maximum extension
- App required for full brightness control
FAQ
Which is better, BenQ ScreenBar Plus or Elgato Key Light Air?
Both are strong choices, but the BenQ ScreenBar Plus Monitor Light edges ahead with a 9.2/10 vs 8.9/10. Asymmetric optical design. Auto-dimming. Wireless dial controller. Zero screen glare. That said, the Elgato Key Light Air is worth considering if 1400 lumens, app-controlled, eliminates shadows on video calls. The streamer's key light standard.
Is the BenQ ScreenBar Plus worth the extra cost?
Yes — BenQ ScreenBar Plus Monitor Light scores higher at 9.2/10 vs 8.9/10.
Who is the BenQ ScreenBar Plus best suited to?
Asymmetric optical design. Auto-dimming. Wireless dial controller. Zero screen glare.
Who is the Elgato Key Light Air best suited to?
1400 lumens, app-controlled, eliminates shadows on video calls. The streamer's key light standard.
What are the main downsides of each?
BenQ ScreenBar Plus Monitor Light: Premium pricing for a monitor light; Wireless controller requires AAA batteries. Elgato Key Light Air: Only lights your face — you'll still need a desk lamp for the workspace; The stand/clamp arm is flimsy at maximum extension.
Do owner ratings agree with our verdict?
Largely, yes — BenQ ScreenBar Plus Monitor Light sits at 4.6★ from 16,800 verified Amazon owners, and Elgato Key Light Air at 4.5★ from 12,300.
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