BenQ ScreenBar Halo vs ScreenBar Plus – Which Should You Buy?

We compare the two top BenQ monitor light bars. The Halo adds ambient backlight and wireless dial—is it worth the extra $10?

Updated 2026-03-09 Independently reviewed
BenQ ScreenBar Halo

BenQ ScreenBar Halo

9.2/10
$109 /one-time
VS
BenQ ScreenBar Plus

BenQ ScreenBar Plus

9/10
$99 /one-time

Feature Comparison

Feature BenQ ScreenBar Halo BenQ ScreenBar Plus
Brightness 500 lux 500 lux
Color Temperature 2700K–6500K 2700K–6500K
Control Wireless dial Dial on bar
Ambient Light Yes, rear-facing No
Auto-Dimming Yes Yes
Monitor Compatibility Curved and flat, 24–34 inch 24–34 inch
Power USB-A USB-A
Weight 0.9 lb 0.7 lb

BenQ ScreenBar Halo

Pros

  • Ambient backlight reduces eye strain in dark rooms
  • Wireless dial for intuitive brightness and color control
  • Zero glare asymmetric optics
  • Auto-dimming sensor adapts to ambient light
  • Premium build quality and finish
  • Wide compatibility with curved and flat monitors

Cons

  • Premium price point
  • Requires USB power connection

BenQ ScreenBar Plus

Pros

  • Industry-leading asymmetric optics, zero glare
  • Convenient dial built into the bar
  • Auto-dimming and memory settings
  • Solid metal construction
  • Works with 24–34 inch monitors
  • Consistent color temperature across the beam

Cons

  • No ambient backlight like Halo
  • Higher price than budget options

Our Verdict

BenQ ScreenBar Halo

The best monitor light bar for serious users who want ambient backlighting and premium controls. Worth the investment for long work sessions.

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BenQ ScreenBar Plus

The gold standard for monitor lighting. Excellent for anyone who wants proven performance without the ambient backlight of the Halo.

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Our Methodology

We test each monitor light bar for brightness uniformity, color temperature accuracy, glare control, and build quality. Details on testing process. No manufacturer has editorial influence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between the Halo and Plus?
The ScreenBar Halo adds ambient backlighting—a soft glow behind your monitor that reduces eye strain in dark rooms. It also has a wireless dial controller instead of the dial built into the bar. The Plus has the same excellent task light and asymmetric optics but no ambient light and an on-bar dial. Both share the same core lighting quality.
Is the Halo worth $10 more than the Plus?
If you work in a dim room or at night, the ambient backlight is worth it—it creates a more comfortable viewing environment. The wireless dial is also more convenient if your desk setup makes reaching the bar awkward. If you work in a well-lit room and prefer a simpler setup, the Plus is the better value. Both are excellent; the Halo is the upgrade for those who want the extras.
Do both work with curved monitors?
Yes, both the ScreenBar Halo and ScreenBar Plus support curved monitors. BenQ specifies compatibility with curved monitors up to 34 inches for both models. The mount design is the same, so fit and stability are identical. If you have a curved ultrawide, either will work.
Which has better build quality?
Both have identical premium build quality—metal construction, solid feel, and reliable components. The Halo is slightly heavier due to the ambient light elements and wireless receiver, but the difference is minimal. You're paying for features, not build quality—both are built to last.

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