BUYER’S GUIDE

BioLite

SunLight

Notes: Aptly described by BioLite as “the size of an ice cream sandwich,” the SunLight is slim and easy to carry. In addition to a dimmable white light and selectable RGB color, it also has a “Party Mode” that slowly fades through the spectrum. We suspect we’re not rad enough to get much use out of that feature. The SunLight can be charged in two hours via micro USB or in seven via a built-in solar panel — a tiny sundial on the corner helps with aiming. The LEDs flash red, yellow, or green to indicate charge level, but you won’t want to leave the light charging in your bedroom, because all four LEDs flash brightly every 10 seconds while plugged in.

Pros:

› Solar panel provides a sustainable source of light in off-grid settings
› Compact and lightweight enough for pocket carry

Cons:

› Flat LED array creates directional light rather than 360-degree light› Accessing color mode requires cycling through white light first, negatively› Solar panel only charges the light, not other devices