Our Rating
Summary:
4.2
Some products offer a great first impression, but then fail to follow through with their value proposition. Others offer a terrible first impression, though they get the job done quite effectively. The Sphere Gadget Technologies Lightphoria is a 10,000-lux wide-spectrum light that is more of the latter than the former.
Unlike other therapy lights, this product uses LEDs, 72 of them in fact, to produce a light source that feels soothing and natural. It is compact and lightweight, which makes it suitable for travel, and it comes with a worldwide compatible AC adapter. As a unit, this product consumes just 7.2 watts and is rated to last for more than 20 years.
Here’s What We Like About Lightphoria
For such a small light, it makes quite the impact. You can use the lamp 12-18 inches away from your face for seasonal affective disorders and receive a physical response in less than a week. Any further away than this reduces the effectiveness of this product.
It’s nice that this product can simulate natural sunlight without the need for UV filters. The light produced is smooth and consistent, without flickering. There is little glare, but you will feel discomfort if you happen to look at the light directly. You’ll want to make sure your eyes are looking away from the unit when you turn it on for use.
Lightphoria is strong enough to be helpful, especially first thing in the morning. The compact size makes it possible to slip it into a pocket to use virtually anywhere, but you’ll need to pack along your power cord as well.
Here’s What We Didn’t Like About Lightphoria
Because this lamp consists of 72 LEDs, you have 72 opportunities for something to fail and reduce the effectiveness of the therapy you receive. Although this circumstance is covered under warranty protections, it is still quite irritating to either send in the unit for a repair or try to replace the LED on your own if you don’t feel like waiting.
The average LED can last for up to 50,000 hours, but the connections are quite sensitive. Too much jostling and you can have a light go out, sort of like what happens to your Christmas tree lights.
It also comes with a nylon travel pouch, but this is essentially a throwaway item.
The power connection can be somewhat bothersome if you leave the lamp plugged in without having it turned on. There is some feedback that some users can hear, like a high-pitched buzz, so be sure to unplug the lamp whenever it isn’t being used.
Our Grade for the Sphere Gadget Technologies Lightphoria: A-
It may not be perfect, but this small little therapy lamp does an excellent job of providing a consistent level of light at an affordable price. It is simple and easy to use and offers a smooth light experience. If you’re looking for a way to improve your seasonal affective disorder, then you’ll want to give Lightphoria a try today.
