BenQ ScreenBar Halo 2 REVIEW The Best Monitor Light Bar for Curved Displays

The BenQ ScreenBar Halo 2 combines bright glare-free lighting, a wireless controller, rear ambient lighting, and curved monitor compatibility in a premium desk accessory.

I don’t remember the first light bar I used, but I know that since I’ve moved to a curved monitor, it’s been a struggle finding one that works well with my monitor. Fortunately, BenQ knows this struggle is real and provides a solution for curved monitor users with the ScreenBar Halo 2.

About the BenQ ScreenBar Halo 2

The BenQ ScreenBar Halo 2 is a premium monitor light bar designed to improve desk lighting and reduce eye strain during long work or gaming sessions. Unlike a traditional desk lamp, it sits directly on top of a monitor and uses an asymmetrical lighting design that illuminates the desk surface without creating glare on the screen.

The light bar features both a front-facing task light and a rear ambient backlight, helping create a more balanced workspace environment. Users can adjust the brightness and color temperature to fit their room, whether they prefer a warm glow for evening use or a cooler light for daytime productivity. It also includes a wireless rechargeable controller, automatic dimming, motion sensing, and compatibility with both flat and curved monitors.

Designed for professionals, gamers, and anyone who spends extended periods at a desk, the ScreenBar Halo 2 offers a sleek alternative to bulky desk lamps while keeping the workspace clean and uncluttered.

Tech Specs

• Light Source: Dual Color LED‎
• Color Rendering Index‎: Ra≥95 (Front Light)
• Color Fidelity Index (Rf): Rf≥96 (Front Light)
• Illuminance‎: Center Illuminance > 1000lux (Height 50cm)
• Lighting Coverage (At 500 Lux): 85cm x 50cm
• Product Color: Dark Grey
• Materials‎: Aluminum alloy, PC / ABS
• Accessory (Optional Accessory): Webcam Accessory
• Power Input‎: 5V / max.3A USB Type-C
• Power Consumption: max.15W
• Power Supply: USB Type-C / Controller : Lithium battery, Type-C plug
• Dimensions (W x D x H cm): Lamp : 50 x 14.3 x 10.9 / Controller : 7.4 x 7.4 x 3.95
• Net Weight‎ (kg): 0.8
• Gross Weight‎ (kg): 1.8
• USB Cable Length: 150cm
• Monitor Compatibility (thickness): Flat / Curved : 0.43-6cm (0.17” – 2.36”)

Pricing & Availability

The list price of the ScreenBar Halo 2 is $199 from benq.com or $179.99 from Amazon (at the time of publishing).

User Experience

Setting up the Halo 2 was extremely simple. The light bar comes in a straightforward package with the wireless controller, USB-C power adapter, and a webcam attachment included. One thing that immediately stood out to me was that the light bar is designed as a single piece. I have used other monitor light bars that require connecting parts at the monitor mount joint, but the Halo 2 balances neatly on top of the display without any extra assembly.

I tested it with my LG 45-inch Ultragear OLED 5K2K curved gaming monitor, which has a fairly aggressive 800R curve. Because of that, it can sometimes be difficult to find accessories that fit properly, especially monitor light bars. Thankfully, the Halo 2 mounted perfectly without any issues. The initial setup process only took a few moments since it was simply a matter of placing the light bar on top of the monitor and plugging in the attached USB-C cable. The cable is also long enough to route cleanly down a monitor arm, which helps keep everything looking neat.

One of my favorite features of the Halo 2 is the wireless controller. I’ve never liked reaching up to the top of a light bar to adjust the controls because it is hard to know exactly what setting is being selected. Having the controls directly on the desktop makes the experience much more convenient and less frustrating. I have used another monitor light bar with a wireless controller in the past, but it did not show the exact brightness or color temperature settings. The Halo 2’s controller includes a display for both, making it very easy to see and adjust the light exactly how I want it.

Switching between brightness and color temperature is simple, and the controls feel intuitive during everyday use. Once I found the settings that worked best for my workspace, I mostly left them alone and did not need to make frequent adjustments.

I also really enjoy the motion sensor built into the light bar. That was one of my favorite features on my previous light bar, and it is just as useful here. There are plenty of times when I walk through my office at night without any other lights on or being able to sit down at my desk and have the light come on as soon as I approach the monitor. It is a small feature, but it adds a lot of convenience to everyday use.

I think the ScreenBar Halo 2 provides ample, even light for my entire 80-inch desk. I’ve never noticed screen glare or even glare on my walnut desktop. I do think the light helps reduce eye strain for me. I’m one of those people who needs the brightness turned all the way up on a monitor, so this really helps in that area. I’ve been very impressed with how much light it produces. Even though it’s bright, it does not overpower the room. My office is approximately 12 ft x 15 ft, and it seems ideal for that size space.

The BenQ ScreenBar Halo 2 fits into my desk setup very well and does not interfere with my webcam, monitor arm, or other accessories. That’s important because I already have multiple devices and cables competing for space on my desk. Despite sitting on top of the monitor, it feels unobtrusive and does not get in the way during everyday use.

It definitely improves the overall appearance and feel of the workspace as well. The clean design and subtle rear lighting add a polished look to the desk. I also think it is a better solution than using a traditional desk lamp because it does not take up any desk space. That leaves me with more room for accessories, writing, or anything else I want on my desk.

Conclusion

The BenQ ScreenBar Halo 2 is one of the best monitor light bars I’ve used, especially for curved monitor setups. It combines strong lighting performance with thoughtful features like the wireless controller, motion sensor, and rear ambient lighting.

While the price is definitely on the premium side, I think the overall experience justifies the cost if you spend long hours at your desk. The Halo 2 improves both the look and function of a workspace without taking up valuable desk space.

For more information, visit benq.com