Norman, as one of those big busted women, I laughed so hard at the thought of oranges and cabbages. I appreciate you addressing those issues though. I have one of those hard neck lights and it moves around constantly as I knit. I might try one of the other types you showed. Thank you for your thorough look at headlamps.
I am on older cabbage :). 8 months ago I got the Fayibuy/Eastpin light from recommendations in a Ravelry discussion. I don't recall cabbages being discussed there, lol. I love my spot light option as I need bright, white light. I feel that it last more than 6.5 hours but haven't really measured. I also have a charging cord very close to me when the light starts to dim. Thank you Norman for doing this extensive review. I greatly appreciate the investment you always give in your videos.
I was about to go buy myself a neck light as a Xmas gift, for both knitting and puzzles. You probably just saved me a bunch of time and a huge headache. Thank you so much!!
Amazing and very detailed video! I really appreciate your scientific approach to yarn crafts, this was so interesting to watch. I have been using the Gritin necklight for about a year now and I absolutely love it. I was surprised though when you said that the brightness is not adjustable, because it actually is, at least with the model I have (the one you linked in the description). Just long press the on/off button and it changes the intensitiy of the light. Thanks for the great video!
My neck light was gifted to me. I had never thought about buying one. I have found it very useful to be able to work without having to turn all the lights in the room up (which can be annoying to anyone else). When I need to replace the one that I have I will definitely take advantage of your reviews; as always, a great and thorough assessment.
Thank you for the thoughtful and thorough review. I use a stand light with a magnifying glass, my older eyes will use the magnifying glass occasionally. Never thought of using my hiking headlamps.
Right now I use a head light around my neck for comfort, but I am on the market for a neck light. Disappointed about the battery life and light intensity of neck lights. I bought my headlight probably 10 years ago, and was consistently used for a couple of years, still in perfect working order! Thank you so much for the comprehensive review.
Excellent review. You went above and beyond. I agree comfort is important and is very subjective but all the light comparisons are very helpful. Great for knitting during airline travel. Your review is much appreciated.
What’s extremely helpful video. Thank you Norman. I have the cheap one and it is useless. Doesn’t stay still because it’s so light and it’s not to bright on the brightest setting so I’ve been looking for a replacement for a few weeks but was lost as to what I should be looking for. Now I know 😊
Thank you for showing neck lights. I’m 81 yrs and I need more light. I have a craft light but it is not enough. This has been very interesting. Thank you so much for your research and your excellent information and input. I feel I will make an informed decision on what to purchase, thanks to your video.
Very interesting indeed, thank you. The scientist in me really appreciated the amount of informatin, preparation, research and clear way of explanation. Also nice to hear that my gut feeling rightly steered me in the direction of the Gritin a couple of months ago. I'm very happy with it - and yes, I almost always use it with the cool light on the brightest setting, only at night in the car where it might disturb the driver I tone it down a bit. I also can attest to its functionality with a ...let's say considerable, but not huge bust.
Thank you for your review of neck lights. Taking the time to looking and testing them is outstanding. Always enjoy your videos outstanding info for us. Cannot thank you enough. ❤🇨🇦
I have a sweet friend who made me a cloth hanger for my circular needles. I love the ease of storing my needles that way. Thank you for sharing your ideas. ❤
Norman, you must think I am crazy. This comment was meant for another knitter I follow. I have your lights video in my saved folder to watch later as I am crazily knitting for Christmas gifts. I need a light so I want to give your video my full attention. BTW, I am now the owner of a Knit Pro set and couldn’t be happier. Love how you help us to get the proper tools and techniques. ❤️
I'd already purchased two of these necklights for Christmas gifts when I watched this 😢 but the information about Amazon and how companies work the sorting that you spoke about at the end is really useful going forward and will serve me going forward for future purchases of anything! Thanks once again for an excellent round up. ❤
yeah..it's something most people are not aware of. There's also an Amazon review program and some manufacturers offer a lot more free items in exchange for a review than others. It's quite the jungle and not even I was able to fully pierce through to the truth :(
@NimbleNeedles I'm just grateful that you were able to enlighten me and make me more aware of what I'm looking at and why! I went for the "sponsored" option believing that this was the most favoured one! Now I know that's not true. Thank you for that. Love your channel. I've learnt so much so far 🥰
Thank you Norman. Very thoughtful and informative comparison. I have the Glucoscent model and have found it helpful with dark knits. Your comparison of the other models gives me a good idea of what I should look for when doing Amazon shopping. I hope your day is fantastic.
I have the Glucsent light (not a free sponsored one unfortunately 😅) and it's fine. It's enough for my needs. I mostly use it in the middle brightness settings and the middle warmth settings. I will look at the higher recommended ones if I need to get a new one. Keep up the great work with the videos and knitting patterns 😀
It was scary, there flames stain my table. 500 pesos mexicanos on flames. 25 USD but feels like 75 USD. In chilango economy this is a luxury… cheaply manufactured, but a luxury. Thankfully nothing to regret but money. Forever fan of sunlight. And my desktop 10k Lux lamp. 😌
I have the Vekkia light and it has settings to change the intensity of the brightness and also whether I want white light, slightly blue light, or slightly yellow light. According to your review on the blog, there are no choices so they must have changed the features since I bought mine about 6 years ago. I’m glad I got it when I did.
Thank you again for your hard work to review these for us. Just received the Gritlin neck light through your link today. I am so happy not to have to use the tall, clunky lamp behind me anymore. I do not know what took me so long, but glad I waited. Just paused from my knitting to write you. Keep up the great work you do. Look forward to every episode!
I have the Gritin neck light (okay, I have it twice) and you can actually gradually adjust the brightness with the button on the arm you turn the lamp on & off, by pressing it for longer 😊
Thanks! I have had a few of these and was unhappy, but I purchased your top choice and I like it a lot. You have the best videos. I am an intermediate to advanced knitter.
I wondered if head-lights would make an appearance. For one of the shop assistants at my local outdoor store, they are a solution to every light related issue. ^^ But I mainly wanted leave a comment for the algorithm and express how very fetching that bundle of neck lights scarf at the beginning was.
Hi Norman, you did a great job here! This video was very helpful and educational. I’m sure everyone can find an ideal light for themselves based on this overview. 👏
Norman, you are some man. What the big job you've done to review so many lights. Thank you very much. I was using Glocusent for many years, and when it died, I bought (well before your video) Gritin, but after a few weeks, I came back to Glocusent. It's probably because I was using it so long that I couldn't accept the change. Now, I think I will give Gritin the second chance, knowing that the master knitter recommends it. I'm quite old (on birth certificate only 😊), and it's probably the reason i don't like changes 😂.
well, yeah that might be true. But we all have different eyes and so it is to be expected that you prefer different things. And my main problem with the Glocusent is actually the price and the fact I don't think it's all that comfortable. All in all, it's servicable and if it works with you, there's no problem with that!
Thanks for the suggestion!! I’m new to knitting and love the idea of the neck light. I’ve been wearing my craftsman headlight which is great, but can’t go anywhere right after using it as it leaves a mark on my forehead!😂❤
I am a woman, and I truthfully would’ve never even thought about the large busted woman having a problem. It just would not have crossed my mind that was very insightful of you to think about that.
I have the Glucosent, which is a bit bulky, but does the job. I mostly knit with stainless steel needles, so no glare. When I borrowed another pair of shiny metal needles, the glare made it impossible to knit. Makes me love my Chiaogoo needles even more.
Oh fantastic reviewing and thank you for taking everything in to consideration. You're great Norman. I like my Glucoscent but I find it slides around my neck and I end up illumination the wall instead of my knitting! Have to keep readjusting it. But I do like the different light settings and that you can control the direction of each light. By the way, I always wave hello and goodbye to you.
My husband bought me a neck light from Lowe's (Kobalt brand). I like that I can turn just one side on at a time. Plus I can press and hold the button and it dims. I've found that is a great feature because sometimes the light is just too bright. Thanks for the reviews!
it's very interesting. Some people here say that they never even use the lowest brighthness and then, there are people like you. So, I guess it's very great that we have so many options, right?
I love my Enclize! Comes in multiple colors, has three brightness settings and three color settings, super comfy and flexible, you can charge it while it’s on, battery lasts a LONGGG time, especially on the low setting, and it was only $9.99 USD
that's not available here in Europe so I couldn't test it. However, I noticed that most necklights that are not very bright typically also last a long time. Most of them have the very same battery inside.
Ha ha ... was not expecting to see all the neck lights at the opening. You did your research! I have two I am not particularly happy with. Appreciate your reviews.
well, I think that's something so many consumers are really looking for: unbiased, unsponsored reviews that really take a deep dive. And not "todays video is sponsored by XY..and I really have to say, i love it. and I am not just saying this because I was paid$3,500 and and if I am nice there's gonna be another paycheck next month".
Thank you Norman for this great video. It helps me a lot because I also need a lamp like this and there are simply too few reviews of the products on offer or the important points such as weight or brightness are sometimes not mentioned at all in the reviews. I'm now leaning towards the super flexible and simple lamp, which is only available on the German Amazon with a description that is not very useful and which has no reviews at all so far. Or the one from Stier. Flat neckband and nicely adjustable light heads... Let's see.
Great video, Norman! As usual! I like your comments about how they are marketed - it’s so easy to get fooled. I have a neck light with a very thick, fixed size around my neck & I can’t keep it in place. I find it annoying to have to toggle through all the light options every time - wish they had separate buttons, or something. Sigh…waste of money & resources (plastic)! Thanks for your insights & observations-we have a much better chance for success now!
I hope my video makes a difference...though ultimately it kinda didn'T go as planned. I thought I could name an easy winner...but since the market is just so crazy and volatile...that saldy was a pipe dream
My Glucoscent has been a life changer, battery life is outstanding and I use it for all kinds of activities. My only complaint is the length because I have a larger bust. Most headlamps are not a good option for DD+ because they don't tilt down, so you tend to bend your neck farther out of ergonomic position. Plus, you risk blinding your knitting circle friends when chatting. 🔦 🤣
haha. Yeah, those arms are very short and I just don't understand why they didn't make them longer. I don't see how that long inflexibily bit towards the lamp has any benefits. Maybe cheaper to manufacture?
About the head lamps, they are used all the time by industrial maintenance workers who has to have their hands free for safety. My father maintains power substations and good lightning is mandatory safty equipment, he has a whole range of head lamps, clip-on lamps, magnetic stick-on lamps etc and they are GREAT! He bought me a few, not only for knitting, and yes they didn't come cheap.
Very helpful video. When ready to purchase I’ll rewatch and add up the scores of the lights by what is most important to me. My first thought for comfort was that maybe I could wrap the back of the neck with something more comfortable if that was an issue.
Really appreciate the depth of this video, but I can’t believe it came out literally a week after I bought my first light and was curious about all these things. 😭 I went with a Glousant and it’s okay. It seems to not charge fully when I use my regular usb cable, but it lasts longer when I use the cable it came with. I didn’t realize such a thing was possible, but I have a pair of rotary trimmers that won’t even indicate they are charging unless I use the OEM usb C cable. I have a large bust and I actually wish the gooseneck was shorter because I feel like I can angle it to a better spot and have it stay put if it was shorter. With it being longer, even if I bend the lights up, the weight of the lights just makes them fall forward, if that makes any sense. I feel like if I was wearing one of those travel neck pillows and put the light over it, it would hoist it up enough to get the light to clear the boobs. So maybe a supper padded back is the answer but that would look so absurd. Anyone shopping, don’t be swayed by adjustable brightness. The lowest setting on mine is so low I always think it’s off. The medium setting is just annoying, I only use it at max brightness. I wish they had put 2-3x as many LEDs in it. I’d also be cool with a version you plugged into a power bank (thus getting the weight of a battery off your neck) if it meant it lasted 10+ hours at the brightest setting. Mine seems to crap out after 2-3 hours so I’m thinking of returning it. I wish someone would make a not cheap version of this that’s way brighter and longer lasting. I’d happily pay a lot more for something that did a better job.
that would be my dream as well..but guess the market is not big enough for some big company to step in. But yeah...a no-nonsense product with good LEDs and a nice dimmer would be great. All my studio lightes, etc have quite a wide array of adjustments so I know it's possible... :( As for the neck and the bust. A very good friend of mine does have quite a sizeable bust and she actually enjoys the YKZ neck light as well and it works for her (and is her favorite as well). But well..all bodies are different!
I have the Fayibuy (or at least a similar one) and love it! I don’t notice it when I’m wearing it, despite being heavier with a thicker band. I love the bar light and I can position it down and over my big bust. Have two other knitter friends who’ve also bought it and love it. It’s bright enough for me.
Norman, thank you for another thoughtful, comprehensive review! I have a Glocusent light, and it works alright, though I do wish it were brighter at times. Thank you for considering different body types in a sensitive way. :) PS- I enjoyed your 'mad scientist' reference. :)
always. It always astounds me how little some bigger publications take that into account, when the reality is that 50% of all knitters are +50yrs with all the little ailments that age brings and very few of them are blond nordic size XS kind of petite women. Yet, I feel like 90% of all products are geared towards that target audience.
I got the Lumos and they are absolutely wonderful! Light, batteries last for a few hours and can be recharged, arms very flexible and stay put, three different settings.
I have to constantly adjust the position of my Lumos light. I like it otherwise but it is a nuisance when I realise it isn’t beaming where I need it to then I have to tweak the arms.
@@fairweathercamilla3177 hm...that doesn't sound all that promising. I would have bought it but it's not available here in Europe and...i do have my suspicions it's the same hard product but just sold at a different price with a slightly different angle.
yes, I did notice that. so weird. a friend of mine literally still was able to buy it last week :( But I guess, just proof of my point: this market is crazy :(
Thanks again for conducting all of these reviews! I need a new neck light as the one I have now (one in your video) is so uncomfortable and my long hair gets caught in the arms all the time. Liking the YKZ. May order that one.
Thanks for this! I avoid amazon, but…some items are hard to find or shipping $$$ are ridiculous or … That said, I bought a Lumos last year w discount, but then add in shipping + tax (US). A bit expensive for my budget, but I need extra light for darker knitting (which I try to avoid, but socks-well, a lot of black/dark grey heel + toes, want to use up etc etc). I’m NOT complaining, just an observation. Adjusting the arms to just the “right” spot to see a nice contrasting toe/heel is all part of my knitting to keep calm. Another reason I dislike amazon is your ending comments re “reviews”, same manufacturer in different colors etc. for a gazillion products. I’ll stick with smaller, local (if possible) shops/products. Which isn’t easy. I appreciate all of your review videos! There’s always a point or issue I never thought of, and you shed light on everything! (heh heh, couldn’t help it! grin grin)
well, as you said, for some items it's impossible to avoid. And me linking people to a local yarn shop here in Vienna would probably not be helpful for the vast majority of my audience. Plus, most yarn shops will have to buy these made in china items from a local wholesaler who gets the items from the same continent wide distriubuter you buy from Amazon. So...it's not that easy really. But yeah, I try to be quite conservate and most of my knitting shopping is done directly from the respective dyer or tool manufacturer. I try to cut out intermediaries as best as possible.
Before looking at the neck lights, I'm going try out my head light. Great suggestion about using that. If that isn't good enough, then I'll read through your blog on the subject. Thank you so much for going to all that trouble for us. It must have been intensely boring! So again, many thanks.
8:30 ‐ you don't give the name of the lamp, but it looks like one I bought and returned. It didn't stay put around my neck (probably due to lopsided design) and the hinge on the wide part got tangled in my hair and I broke quite a few hairs getting it disentangled. Re: the Glocusen ‐ my arms can be individually controlled with the exception of the light temperature.
I was just looking at getting a knitting light the other day! Perfect timing! On my amazon one of the pictures says the Gritin light has brightness adjustment if you hold on the powerbutton for 4 seconds. Might be a different model or something, but will def get it anyway.
Exzellent independent review. A very good guide and I think better than „Stiftung Warentest“. Hope you also consuder making a review on „Fusselentferner“ ❤
As another "big busted" person, I had to laugh at your description!! I've tried several neck lights, theyre ok, but I find them just annoying.. I love my Ott light thats off to the side, not to mention, it also has a wireless phone charger! 😂😂 Unless there's a power outage, don't need it. 😉
I like my neck light (Glocusent) from Amazon. It is a bit bulkier than I would like, but it has three levels of brightness in two forms, bright light or warm light. It has good battery life
I have purchased the neck lights and have been disappointed. I always go back to using my good head lamp! The light actually hits my hands cause my head /eyes light is in the same line and I'm looking straight at my work/ hands. I may go with your recommendations.
Headlamps that are very useful can be found in home fixit department stores, or auto stores. BUT, if you have someone else in the room, and you look at them, they will be blinded. That is the same if you like to look up at the monitor some times, and will flash the screen. On the necklights, our Physical Therapy doctor daughter has gotten me to stop bending my neck down, holding my work up either resting elbows on the chair arms, or on my bust area, so my neck is up and back- this prevents those humps all the older women from not so long ago developed as a hump. My necklight is used along with a lamp beside me. was bought in 2020 and used at least once a month, is USB charging, and holds a charge for days. If you have WPIs and don't work on the same project all the time, it's nice to pick up your neck light and have it work fully, even a week later. Both sides work separately, and have three settings as to power and light type. I guess I got lucky!
Thank you! I love your reviews! FYI… I bought my Glocusent about 5 years ago, and am able to use either of the single lights or the double light. Maybe they’ve changed?
I think they have a couple of different models out there. But yeah, it can change. The way I understand it is that there is a manufacturer and they just order a big batch (like 200,000 pcs or so)..and when they run out, they order a new batch but that often comes with changes.
It is important that the lights would be chargeable and long lasting, would not turn off after 3 hours. Flexible firm handles are important only for knitters with larger busts.
I picked mine on Amazon based on price, couldn't tell you the brand, probably a generic brand. It has three brightness settings but the lowest works well for me. I can get two evening knitting sessions out of it, maybe three but usually the brightness drops. The only issue for me is charging, I need to be more dilligent about it
anoying...it's not available anymore here in Germany. God... f*** that....and those people trying to scam us. So...this is the exact link from my purchase history: www.amazon.de/dp/B0C9JF8LV5 However, it only displays the one with a little USB socket at the end. Weirldy enough, a friend of mine was still able to buy it last week. Sorry for that - even if it's not my fault :(
I wasn't able to test it because it's not available here in Austria. However, judging from multiple sources it's nothing special - except for the price that'S just higher for no apparent reason or added quality. Most said the arms are fairly flimsy and don'T stay put.
@@amywhitfield5066 yeah, many have reported a possibly problematic issue with the batteries. I personally would stay away from anything that gets warm..but guess that's a personal risk accessment :)
How can you make Norman even more german? Put two cabbages underneath his sweater 😂😂😂 (I'm german and female) Thank you for this detailed an scientific review!!!
because, as you get older your eyesight starts to fail. Starting at about 35yrs - especially when it comes to see in the dark. So, while a 20something will typically have no issues, things start to change dramatically later on. Also, most people like to knit in their living room sitting in a comfortable chair and you typically don't have a stadium floodlight hanging on your ceiling but typically some more muted cozy light that won't be enough when you knit with 2mm needles and black yarn. But if you don't need it, then be happy about it :)
No. It's not available here on Europe. Plus, it's outrageously overpriced without being better at all. If you ask me, a total rip-off judging by the many comments I received 🤷♀️
Norman, as one of those big busted women, I laughed so hard at the thought of oranges and cabbages. I appreciate you addressing those issues though. I have one of those hard neck lights and it moves around constantly as I knit. I might try one of the other types you showed. Thank you for your thorough look at headlamps.
a friend of mine has....big cabbages ^^..and she really like the flexible arms of the YKZ light i've shown. tho...all boddies are different.
I am on older cabbage :). 8 months ago I got the Fayibuy/Eastpin light from recommendations in a Ravelry discussion. I don't recall cabbages being discussed there, lol.
I love my spot light option as I need bright, white light. I feel that it last more than 6.5 hours but haven't really measured. I also have a charging cord very close to me when the light starts to dim.
Thank you Norman for doing this extensive review. I greatly appreciate the investment you always give in your videos.
Mad scientist 😂😂 Thank you for a very informative yet entertaining video as usual! You are quickly becoming one of my favorite TH-cam channels!
heh! awesome. very happy to hear that
I was about to go buy myself a neck light as a Xmas gift, for both knitting and puzzles. You probably just saved me a bunch of time and a huge headache. Thank you so much!!
happy to hear that. And, as a knitter, I would say: it's a very thoughtful gift!
Amazing and very detailed video! I really appreciate your scientific approach to yarn crafts, this was so interesting to watch.
I have been using the Gritin necklight for about a year now and I absolutely love it.
I was surprised though when you said that the brightness is not adjustable, because it actually is, at least with the model I have (the one you linked in the description). Just long press the on/off button and it changes the intensitiy of the light.
Thanks for the great video!
My neck light was gifted to me. I had never thought about buying one. I have found it very useful to be able to work without having to turn all the lights in the room up (which can be annoying to anyone else). When I need to replace the one that I have I will definitely take advantage of your reviews; as always, a great and thorough assessment.
Excellent, exhaustive comparison of these lights. I have one at the moment, but when it wears down, I’ll certainly refer back here. Thanks!
Thank you for the thoughtful and thorough review. I use a stand light with a magnifying glass, my older eyes will use the magnifying glass occasionally. Never thought of using my hiking headlamps.
well..give it a try! i mean...i personally feel it's abit uncomfortable long term but I am also very sensitive!
Thanks, Norman, for applying your naturally analytical mind to neck lights. I am always amazed by how thorough you are!
My pleasure!
Right now I use a head light around my neck for comfort, but I am on the market for a neck light. Disappointed about the battery life and light intensity of neck lights. I bought my headlight probably 10 years ago, and was consistently used for a couple of years, still in perfect working order!
Thank you so much for the comprehensive review.
I will try that!
yeah, that's what I surmised as well. If you really want quality, you should better look for a good headlamp.
This was on my Christmas list, so now I have a recommendation or for my husband. Thank you Norman!!
ha...maybe you can accidentally forward this video to him...like "Hey Barbara, ..."
Oh...sorry, my mistake :P
Excellent review. You went above and beyond. I agree comfort is important and is very subjective but all the light comparisons are very helpful. Great for knitting during airline travel. Your review is much appreciated.
Glad it was helpful!
Read my mind! I was just looking for a necklight to replace my flashlight-in-mouth method (it works but is not viable for binge sessions).
well...it certainly does sound cumbersome to a point where I'd say:...please don't ask your dentist if it's a good idea ;-)
😂😂😂
What’s extremely helpful video. Thank you Norman. I have the cheap one and it is useless. Doesn’t stay still because it’s so light and it’s not to bright on the brightest setting so I’ve been looking for a replacement for a few weeks but was lost as to what I should be looking for. Now I know 😊
That cluster of neck lights looks great with your sweater! 😊
maybe it'll be a new trend ^^
Thank you for showing neck lights. I’m 81 yrs and I need more light. I have a craft light but it is not enough. This has been very interesting. Thank you so much for your research and your excellent information and input. I feel I will make an informed decision on what to purchase, thanks to your video.
You are so welcome!
I love this! Thanks for not burying the lead and telling us your conclusion right away. 😊
heh. thought the busy people would appreciate it :P
@@NimbleNeedlesI still watched the entire video :)
Very interesting indeed, thank you. The scientist in me really appreciated the amount of informatin, preparation, research and clear way of explanation. Also nice to hear that my gut feeling rightly steered me in the direction of the Gritin a couple of months ago. I'm very happy with it - and yes, I almost always use it with the cool light on the brightest setting, only at night in the car where it might disturb the driver I tone it down a bit. I also can attest to its functionality with a ...let's say considerable, but not huge bust.
Thanks for all your hard work and information and posting it on your website.
glad you appreciate it!
Thank you for your review of neck lights. Taking the time to looking and testing them is outstanding. Always enjoy your videos outstanding info for us. Cannot thank you enough. ❤🇨🇦
you are very welcome!
There you go again, Norman. Being awesome! 😊❤
Thank you norman i dont have a neck light yet but because of u i might get one soon. Another awesome video.❤❤
hope it helps you!
I have a sweet friend who made me a cloth hanger for my circular needles. I love the ease of storing my needles that way. Thank you for sharing your ideas. ❤
Norman, you must think I am crazy. This comment was meant for another knitter I follow. I have your lights video in my saved folder to watch later as I am crazily knitting for Christmas gifts. I need a light so I want to give your video my full attention. BTW, I am now the owner of a Knit Pro set and couldn’t be happier. Love how you help us to get the proper tools and techniques. ❤️
I'd already purchased two of these necklights for Christmas gifts when I watched this 😢 but the information about Amazon and how companies work the sorting that you spoke about at the end is really useful going forward and will serve me going forward for future purchases of anything! Thanks once again for an excellent round up. ❤
yeah..it's something most people are not aware of. There's also an Amazon review program and some manufacturers offer a lot more free items in exchange for a review than others.
It's quite the jungle and not even I was able to fully pierce through to the truth :(
@NimbleNeedles I'm just grateful that you were able to enlighten me and make me more aware of what I'm looking at and why! I went for the "sponsored" option believing that this was the most favoured one! Now I know that's not true. Thank you for that. Love your channel. I've learnt so much so far 🥰
Thank you Norman. Very thoughtful and informative comparison. I have the Glucoscent model and have found it helpful with dark knits. Your comparison of the other models gives me a good idea of what I should look for when doing Amazon shopping. I hope your day is fantastic.
thank you! have a lovely start into the new week as well!
Thanks for this review. I have a rechargeable "Glocusent" headlight and I love it.
I have the Glucsent light (not a free sponsored one unfortunately 😅) and it's fine. It's enough for my needs. I mostly use it in the middle brightness settings and the middle warmth settings. I will look at the higher recommended ones if I need to get a new one. Keep up the great work with the videos and knitting patterns 😀
heh. yeah. As I said in the end of the video...all these choices are more or less fine.
(ps: I didn't get a free sponsored one either :P)
36:05 Glad to find someone finds the Glucsent useful… mine caught on fire, thankfully not on my neck.
@echarchal interestingly enough, that's the third time I heard this. Seems there is a serious issue with the batteries!
@@echarchal😮 well now I’m going to be very very careful!
It was scary, there flames stain my table. 500 pesos mexicanos on flames. 25 USD but feels like 75 USD. In chilango economy this is a luxury… cheaply manufactured, but a luxury. Thankfully nothing to regret but money. Forever fan of sunlight. And my desktop 10k Lux lamp. 😌
I have the Vekkia light and it has settings to change the intensity of the brightness and also whether I want white light, slightly blue light, or slightly yellow light. According to your review on the blog, there are no choices so they must have changed the features since I bought mine about 6 years ago. I’m glad I got it when I did.
no, the vekkia light has settings/3 modes but those modes are all slightly cool as opposed to other lights that have a much warmer/yellower mode.
I appreciate how smart you are as you approach this review. Big brain!
Thank you again for your hard work to review these for us. Just received the Gritlin neck light through your link today. I am so happy not to have to use the tall, clunky lamp behind me anymore. I do not know what took me so long, but glad I waited. Just paused from my knitting to write you. Keep up the great work you do. Look forward to every episode!
Aww...thanks for letting me know!
I have the Gritin neck light (okay, I have it twice) and you can actually gradually adjust the brightness with the button on the arm you turn the lamp on & off, by pressing it for longer 😊
Thanks! I have had a few of these and was unhappy, but I purchased your top choice and I like it a lot. You have the best videos. I am an intermediate to advanced knitter.
I wondered if head-lights would make an appearance. For one of the shop assistants at my local outdoor store, they are a solution to every light related issue. ^^ But I mainly wanted leave a comment for the algorithm and express how very fetching that bundle of neck lights scarf at the beginning was.
thank you for continuing to support my videos
Excellent content as always. Thank you Norman!!!!
Hello Norman, I bought a neck lamp - STIER. Wow! It's amazing! Thank you so much, this bright light changes everything!
Happy to hear that. Yeah, it sure is bright!!!
Hi Norman, you did a great job here! This video was very helpful and educational. I’m sure everyone can find an ideal light for themselves based on this overview. 👏
I love the work you put into your videos. I know I'm going to get useful information when I watch.
heh. the pressure is on, lol! :P
Wow! That must have taken so long to research. Thank you!
Fabulous video (as always)
well...define long..but it definitely kept me busy for a week :) glad you appreciate the extra effort.
Norman, you are some man. What the big job you've done to review so many lights. Thank you very much. I was using Glocusent for many years, and when it died, I bought (well before your video) Gritin, but after a few weeks, I came back to Glocusent. It's probably because I was using it so long that I couldn't accept the change. Now, I think I will give Gritin the second chance, knowing that the master knitter recommends it. I'm quite old (on birth certificate only 😊), and it's probably the reason i don't like changes 😂.
well, yeah that might be true. But we all have different eyes and so it is to be expected that you prefer different things. And my main problem with the Glocusent is actually the price and the fact I don't think it's all that comfortable. All in all, it's servicable and if it works with you, there's no problem with that!
Thanks for the suggestion!! I’m new to knitting and love the idea of the neck light. I’ve been wearing my craftsman headlight which is great, but can’t go anywhere right after using it as it leaves a mark on my forehead!😂❤
I am a woman, and I truthfully would’ve never even thought about the large busted woman having a problem. It just would not have crossed my mind that was very insightful of you to think about that.
it's actually a major problem for many to a point where they say "these things don't work for me"
This was a great review. A lot of time and thought went into it. You brought up many factors that I will need to take into account. Thank you.
my pleasure!
I have the Glucosent, which is a bit bulky, but does the job. I mostly knit with stainless steel needles, so no glare. When I borrowed another pair of shiny metal needles, the glare made it impossible to knit. Makes me love my Chiaogoo needles even more.
Oh fantastic reviewing and thank you for taking everything in to consideration. You're great Norman. I like my Glucoscent but I find it slides around my neck and I end up illumination the wall instead of my knitting! Have to keep readjusting it. But I do like the different light settings and that you can control the direction of each light.
By the way, I always wave hello and goodbye to you.
*waves back*
Thanks so much for your great reviews! I purchased the Gritin light and it is noticeably brighter than the Glucosent. 😊Thanks!
My husband bought me a neck light from Lowe's (Kobalt brand). I like that I can turn just one side on at a time. Plus I can press and hold the button and it dims. I've found that is a great feature because sometimes the light is just too bright.
Thanks for the reviews!
it's very interesting. Some people here say that they never even use the lowest brighthness and then, there are people like you. So, I guess it's very great that we have so many options, right?
Thank you for this unexpectedly pleasant review. We appreciate the details. Well done! Thank you for sharing your thoughts ❤❤
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you, Norman 🤍
Thanks, Norman.
I got my Glocusent as a mothers day gift this year. Works for me at night time. Better than no light with my old eyes.😂
yeah, it's serviceable enough. And if I had received it such a thoughtful gift, I'd certainly use it as well!
Looks lik you are rading my mind - I was about to buy such a lamp. Great timing :)
I love my Enclize! Comes in multiple colors, has three brightness settings and three color settings, super comfy and flexible, you can charge it while it’s on, battery lasts a LONGGG time, especially on the low setting, and it was only $9.99 USD
that's not available here in Europe so I couldn't test it. However, I noticed that most necklights that are not very bright typically also last a long time. Most of them have the very same battery inside.
Great (obsessively detailed) analysis. I’m abou5to visit my mother, who has terrible lighting. Just ordered one. Thank you!
I have the Gritin neck light. It is my second neck light. I absolutely love it for knitting and reading.
happ yto hear you agree :)
Ha ha ... was not expecting to see all the neck lights at the opening. You did your research! I have two I am not particularly happy with. Appreciate your reviews.
well, I think that's something so many consumers are really looking for: unbiased, unsponsored reviews that really take a deep dive.
And not "todays video is sponsored by XY..and I really have to say, i love it. and I am not just saying this because I was paid$3,500 and and if I am nice there's gonna be another paycheck next month".
Omg I literally just bought a cheap one that doesn’t work that well. I’m so glad you posted this video before I waste more money.
Glad I could help!
Thank you Norman for this great video. It helps me a lot because I also need a lamp like this and there are simply too few reviews of the products on offer or the important points such as weight or brightness are sometimes not mentioned at all in the reviews. I'm now leaning towards the super flexible and simple lamp, which is only available on the German Amazon with a description that is not very useful and which has no reviews at all so far. Or the one from Stier. Flat neckband and nicely adjustable light heads... Let's see.
Thank you so much Norman for this in depth comparison ! Extemely informative ❤
Great video, Norman! As usual! I like your comments about how they are marketed - it’s so easy to get fooled. I have a neck light with a very thick, fixed size around my neck & I can’t keep it in place. I find it annoying to have to toggle through all the light options every time - wish they had separate buttons, or something. Sigh…waste of money & resources (plastic)! Thanks for your insights & observations-we have a much better chance for success now!
I hope my video makes a difference...though ultimately it kinda didn'T go as planned. I thought I could name an easy winner...but since the market is just so crazy and volatile...that saldy was a pipe dream
My Glucoscent has been a life changer, battery life is outstanding and I use it for all kinds of activities. My only complaint is the length because I have a larger bust.
Most headlamps are not a good option for DD+ because they don't tilt down, so you tend to bend your neck farther out of ergonomic position. Plus, you risk blinding your knitting circle friends when chatting. 🔦 🤣
haha. Yeah, those arms are very short and I just don't understand why they didn't make them longer. I don't see how that long inflexibily bit towards the lamp has any benefits. Maybe cheaper to manufacture?
About the head lamps, they are used all the time by industrial maintenance workers who has to have their hands free for safety. My father maintains power substations and good lightning is mandatory safty equipment, he has a whole range of head lamps, clip-on lamps, magnetic stick-on lamps etc and they are GREAT! He bought me a few, not only for knitting, and yes they didn't come cheap.
Very helpful video. When ready to purchase I’ll rewatch and add up the scores of the lights by what is most important to me. My first thought for comfort was that maybe I could wrap the back of the neck with something more comfortable if that was an issue.
heh...you could possibly knit a neck light cozy? :)
But not actually sure if that makes it more comfortable, tho!
Really appreciate the depth of this video, but I can’t believe it came out literally a week after I bought my first light and was curious about all these things. 😭 I went with a Glousant and it’s okay. It seems to not charge fully when I use my regular usb cable, but it lasts longer when I use the cable it came with. I didn’t realize such a thing was possible, but I have a pair of rotary trimmers that won’t even indicate they are charging unless I use the OEM usb C cable.
I have a large bust and I actually wish the gooseneck was shorter because I feel like I can angle it to a better spot and have it stay put if it was shorter. With it being longer, even if I bend the lights up, the weight of the lights just makes them fall forward, if that makes any sense. I feel like if I was wearing one of those travel neck pillows and put the light over it, it would hoist it up enough to get the light to clear the boobs. So maybe a supper padded back is the answer but that would look so absurd.
Anyone shopping, don’t be swayed by adjustable brightness. The lowest setting on mine is so low I always think it’s off. The medium setting is just annoying, I only use it at max brightness. I wish they had put 2-3x as many LEDs in it. I’d also be cool with a version you plugged into a power bank (thus getting the weight of a battery off your neck) if it meant it lasted 10+ hours at the brightest setting. Mine seems to crap out after 2-3 hours so I’m thinking of returning it.
I wish someone would make a not cheap version of this that’s way brighter and longer lasting. I’d happily pay a lot more for something that did a better job.
that would be my dream as well..but guess the market is not big enough for some big company to step in. But yeah...a no-nonsense product with good LEDs and a nice dimmer would be great. All my studio lightes, etc have quite a wide array of adjustments so I know it's possible... :(
As for the neck and the bust. A very good friend of mine does have quite a sizeable bust and she actually enjoys the YKZ neck light as well and it works for her (and is her favorite as well). But well..all bodies are different!
I have the Fayibuy (or at least a similar one) and love it! I don’t notice it when I’m wearing it, despite being heavier with a thicker band. I love the bar light and I can position it down and over my big bust. Have two other knitter friends who’ve also bought it and love it. It’s bright enough for me.
very thorough review, thank you for your efforts.
Norman, thank you for another thoughtful, comprehensive review! I have a Glocusent light, and it works alright, though I do wish it were brighter at times. Thank you for considering different body types in a sensitive way. :) PS- I enjoyed your 'mad scientist' reference. :)
always. It always astounds me how little some bigger publications take that into account, when the reality is that 50% of all knitters are +50yrs with all the little ailments that age brings and very few of them are blond nordic size XS kind of petite women. Yet, I feel like 90% of all products are geared towards that target audience.
I got the Lumos and they are absolutely wonderful! Light, batteries last for a few hours and can be recharged, arms very flexible and stay put, three different settings.
thx for sharing. tho, from what i've gathered, this light is almost 3 times as expensive as the rest, and I really couldn't pinpoint why?
I have to constantly adjust the position of my Lumos light. I like it otherwise but it is a nuisance when I realise it isn’t beaming where I need it to then I have to tweak the arms.
@@fairweathercamilla3177 hm...that doesn't sound all that promising. I would have bought it but it's not available here in Europe and...i do have my suspicions it's the same hard product but just sold at a different price with a slightly different angle.
The YKZ neck lamp is unavailable. Sold out! I picked up the Gritin so we'll see if it suits me. Thank you for doing all the hard work, again!
yes, I did notice that. so weird. a friend of mine literally still was able to buy it last week :(
But I guess, just proof of my point: this market is crazy :(
Thanks again for conducting all of these reviews! I need a new neck light as the one I have now (one in your video) is so uncomfortable and my long hair gets caught in the arms all the time. Liking the YKZ. May order that one.
I have the one with the rectangular diffuser -- love it! Bought it mostly for reading though
yeah, they can be very ggreat. Tho I personally have a reading light I can clip to my bedframe/couch. I feel that works a bit better for me.
Thanks for this! I avoid amazon, but…some items are hard to find or shipping $$$ are ridiculous or …
That said, I bought a Lumos last year w discount, but then add in shipping + tax (US). A bit expensive for my budget, but I need extra light for darker knitting (which I try to avoid, but socks-well, a lot of black/dark grey heel + toes, want to use up etc etc).
I’m NOT complaining, just an observation. Adjusting the arms to just the “right” spot to see a nice contrasting toe/heel is all part of my knitting to keep calm.
Another reason I dislike amazon is your ending comments re “reviews”, same manufacturer in different colors etc. for a gazillion products. I’ll stick with smaller, local (if possible) shops/products. Which isn’t easy.
I appreciate all of your review videos! There’s always a point or issue I never thought of, and you shed light on everything!
(heh heh, couldn’t help it! grin grin)
well, as you said, for some items it's impossible to avoid. And me linking people to a local yarn shop here in Vienna would probably not be helpful for the vast majority of my audience.
Plus, most yarn shops will have to buy these made in china items from a local wholesaler who gets the items from the same continent wide distriubuter you buy from Amazon. So...it's not that easy really.
But yeah, I try to be quite conservate and most of my knitting shopping is done directly from the respective dyer or tool manufacturer. I try to cut out intermediaries as best as possible.
Before looking at the neck lights, I'm going try out my head light. Great suggestion about using that. If that isn't good enough, then I'll read through your blog on the subject. Thank you so much for going to all that trouble for us. It must have been intensely boring! So again, many thanks.
definitely do that. It it works, why buy more plastic with a horrible carbon footprint because it was shipped three times across the globe, right?
@@NimbleNeedles 100% agree .
8:30 ‐ you don't give the name of the lamp, but it looks like one I bought and returned. It didn't stay put around my neck (probably due to lopsided design) and the hinge on the wide part got tangled in my hair and I broke quite a few hairs getting it disentangled.
Re: the Glocusen ‐ my arms can be individually controlled with the exception of the light temperature.
I was just looking at getting a knitting light the other day! Perfect timing! On my amazon one of the pictures says the Gritin light has brightness adjustment if you hold on the powerbutton for 4 seconds. Might be a different model or something, but will def get it anyway.
yeah, they are multiple different models and it's a bit...well...as I said in the video it's a bit confusing to say the least!
@@NimbleNeedles so confusing! thats why I didnt get one in the past despite really wanting one. Thanks for helping navigate the jungle
Thank you so much for this and all your videos.
Exzellent independent review. A very good guide and I think better than „Stiftung Warentest“. Hope you also consuder making a review on „Fusselentferner“ ❤
well...stifung Warentest is 90% only doing reviews based on companies willing to pay for them ^^
So comprehensive and useful, thank you! ❤
You're so welcome!
As another "big busted" person, I had to laugh at your description!!
I've tried several neck lights, theyre ok, but I find them just annoying..
I love my Ott light thats off to the side, not to mention, it also has a wireless phone charger! 😂😂
Unless there's a power outage, don't need it. 😉
I like my neck light (Glocusent) from Amazon.
It is a bit bulkier than I would like, but it has three levels of brightness in two forms, bright light or warm light. It has good battery life
glad it works for you!
Muy muy interesante, tengo una... para la próxima tendré presente tus consejos. Gracias ❤
I have two 😂 You made a great job for us! Thank you ❤
:P...i have like 15 now 😂
(but probably gonna give most of them away)
@NimbleNeedles you can decorate your Christmas tree! 😁😁
I have purchased the neck lights and have been disappointed. I always go back to using my good head lamp! The light actually hits my hands cause my head /eyes light is in the same line and I'm looking straight at my work/ hands.
I may go with your recommendations.
Thank you so much, Norman!
as always, my pleasure, gail!
Headlamps that are very useful can be found in home fixit department stores, or auto stores. BUT, if you have someone else in the room, and you look at them, they will be blinded. That is the same if you like to look up at the monitor some times, and will flash the screen. On the necklights, our Physical Therapy doctor daughter has gotten me to stop bending my neck down, holding my work up either resting elbows on the chair arms, or on my bust area, so my neck is up and back- this prevents those humps all the older women from not so long ago developed as a hump. My necklight is used along with a lamp beside me. was bought in 2020 and used at least once a month, is USB charging, and holds a charge for days. If you have WPIs and don't work on the same project all the time, it's nice to pick up your neck light and have it work fully, even a week later. Both sides work separately, and have three settings as to power and light type. I guess I got lucky!
yeah...all those lights are best used alone :P
Norman, you are adorable and amusing. Have you ever talked about how you came to knit? As a child, with a Grandma? I'll search your older videos
maybe watch this video then: th-cam.com/video/uxOOT81sfsE/w-d-xo.html
You look very chic in a headlamp ❤
ha...it's a new trend! :P
Thank you! I love your reviews! FYI… I bought my Glocusent about 5 years ago, and am able to use either of the single lights or the double light. Maybe they’ve changed?
I think they have a couple of different models out there. But yeah, it can change. The way I understand it is that there is a manufacturer and they just order a big batch (like 200,000 pcs or so)..and when they run out, they order a new batch but that often comes with changes.
@@NimbleNeedles that’s good to know!
Is there a significant advantage to neck lights over headlamps?
no...i mean i guess it boils down to comfort. from my experience, headlamps typically are available in a much wider range of qualities.
Very helpful :)
Btw these things are also amazing during festivals and camping
20:34 I have one of those types and that one always slides to the side
Thx for sharing!
It is important that the lights would be chargeable and long lasting, would not turn off after 3 hours. Flexible firm handles are important only for knitters with larger busts.
I bought the one with the light bar. I like it, but can't find it right now 😢
oh no..well..i bet you'll find it in the most apparent place in 2 years where you never thought to look in the first place :P
I picked mine on Amazon based on price, couldn't tell you the brand, probably a generic brand. It has three brightness settings but the lowest works well for me. I can get two evening knitting sessions out of it, maybe three but usually the brightness drops. The only issue for me is charging, I need to be more dilligent about it
Which model of the YKZ neck light were you reviewing???
anoying...it's not available anymore here in Germany. God... f*** that....and those people trying to scam us.
So...this is the exact link from my purchase history: www.amazon.de/dp/B0C9JF8LV5
However, it only displays the one with a little USB socket at the end. Weirldy enough, a friend of mine was still able to buy it last week.
Sorry for that - even if it's not my fault :(
I am looking for a neck-light I can buy in a local yarn (or other) store, or from a webshop in my region (in the Netherlands).
that's nothing I can help you with, sorry.
How about the Lumos light. It’s very expensive but the company gears itself to crafters/knitters
I wasn't able to test it because it's not available here in Austria. However, judging from multiple sources it's nothing special - except for the price that'S just higher for no apparent reason or added quality. Most said the arms are fairly flimsy and don'T stay put.
@ thank you! I presently have Glocusent, it’s sufficient but gets warm over time.I’ll stick with it for now. Thank you for a thorough video as usual.
@@amywhitfield5066 yeah, many have reported a possibly problematic issue with the batteries. I personally would stay away from anything that gets warm..but guess that's a personal risk accessment :)
Such a good idea!
Glad you think so! hope this video helps you!
Headlamps just slip off my head upwards as soon as i put them on. Was thinking of a necklight for camping instead
hm....well I am not sure I can help you there then :(
How can you make Norman even more german? Put two cabbages underneath his sweater 😂😂😂 (I'm german and female) Thank you for this detailed an scientific review!!!
🙈
I died at oranges and cabbages 💀😂
it was, however, a real sugggestion, lol! :P
@@NimbleNeedles oh I never doubted it! 😆
Why do you even need neck lights if you aren't experiencing blackouts?
because, as you get older your eyesight starts to fail. Starting at about 35yrs - especially when it comes to see in the dark.
So, while a 20something will typically have no issues, things start to change dramatically later on. Also, most people like to knit in their living room sitting in a comfortable chair and you typically don't have a stadium floodlight hanging on your ceiling but typically some more muted cozy light that won't be enough when you knit with 2mm needles and black yarn.
But if you don't need it, then be happy about it :)
When you’re older you will see the need. It also saves on light bills!
You missed the best one Lumos Lumos!
No. It's not available here on Europe. Plus, it's outrageously overpriced without being better at all. If you ask me, a total rip-off judging by the many comments I received 🤷♀️
@ I totally love mine.
@@paddyknits that's great to hear! always cherish when you found a tool that works well for you.