Workshop Lighting Guide: Lumens, Color Temperature, and Placement
Good lighting makes every tool safer and every measurement easier. The goal is bright, even light plus a dedicated task light at the bench.
Workshop lighting basics
- Color temp: 4000K–5000K is a great “daylight” range for shop work.
- Brightness: aim for strong general light, then add task lighting.
- Placement: avoid casting shadows right where your hands work.
Simple setup that works
- 2–4 LED shop lights for the space (depending on size).
- One adjustable task lamp at the bench.
- Optional: under-shelf LED strips for tool walls.