Lighting

How to choose: Lighting

Power. Rechargeable USB lights stick on with adhesive or magnets and need recharging from time to time; how often depends on how often they switch on. Solar lights charge outdoors in daylight and need several hours of direct sun. 5 V strips run from a USB adapter or power bank.

Motion sensors. A PIR sensor reacts to body heat moving across its view, usually within a few metres, and turns the light off again after a short delay. Mount it where you walk towards or past it, not behind glass.

Colour temperature. 3000 K and below is a warm, yellowish light for bedrooms and night use; 4000–6500 K is whiter and suits kitchens, garages and outdoor paths. Outdoor lights need a weatherproof rating: IP65 or higher stands up to rain.