BenQ is expanding its monitor lighting lineup with two new products designed for specific desktop configurations: the iScreenBar, created specifically for Apple’s iMac, and the ScreenBar Max, built to illuminate desks equipped with two monitors.
The company says the new products move beyond the traditional one-size-fits-all approach to monitor lighting by addressing the different needs of users with specialized workstation arrangements.
Both products use BenQ’s asymmetric optical technology, which is designed to illuminate the desk while limiting direct light and reflections on the display.
iScreenBar Brings a Custom Fit to the iMac
The iScreenBar is designed to complement the appearance of Apple’s all-in-one desktop rather than look like an add-on accessory.
Its construction combines an aluminum body with a glass touch panel, while a custom magnetic clamp attaches the light to the rear of compatible iMac models. A magnetic cable clip is included to help keep the power cable neatly positioned.
BenQ says the design avoids covering the iMac’s built-in camera, microphone or rear Apple logo. The accessory is compatible with iMac models released from 2021 onward.
The iScreenBar has also received design recognition, earning both the Red Dot Design Award 2026 and iF Design Award 2026.
Smart Lighting Adjusts to the Environment
BenQ’s ASYM-Light optical system is designed to direct illumination toward the desk rather than the user’s eyes or the display. The company says the lamp can provide balanced lighting across an area measuring approximately 33.5 by 19.7 inches at 500 lux.
The iScreenBar can automatically activate when the iMac wakes and can switch off when the user leaves. It can also adjust brightness according to changes in ambient room lighting.
Users can further customize brightness, color temperature and lighting modes through a dedicated macOS application. The software can also store lighting profiles for different applications.
Video Call Mode Adds Another Touch
For people who frequently use their iMac for video meetings, the iScreenBar includes a dedicated video call mode. The feature is designed to reduce harsh highlights on the face and produce more balanced lighting when the camera is being used.
The lamp draws power through the iMac’s USB-C connection, which also supports control through the macOS application and automatic activation of camera-related lighting features.
ScreenBar Max Is Built for Two-Monitor Workspaces
The second launch, ScreenBar Max, targets users who work with dual-monitor configurations.
Rather than concentrating illumination around a single display, the lamp uses BenQ’s ASYM-TriZone Light technology to spread light across a wider workspace. The design is intended to brighten the area between two monitors, where conventional monitor light bars can leave noticeable dark spots.
BenQ says ScreenBar Max can provide 500-lux illumination across an area measuring approximately 53.1 by 22.8 inches, covering a substantially larger desk surface.
Flexible Mounting for Different Monitor Arrangements
ScreenBar Max features a sliding rail and three fixed height positions to accommodate different monitor configurations. Its compact desk clamp is designed to minimize the amount of workspace consumed by the mounting hardware.
The lamp also includes presence detection, allowing it to switch on or off automatically. Its brightness can adapt to changing room conditions while maintaining the selected color temperature.
Screen-Reading and Ambient Lighting Modes
A dedicated screen-reading mode automatically adjusts brightness according to surrounding light and sets the color temperature to 4000K.
ScreenBar Max also incorporates rear ambient lighting, providing soft illumination behind the monitors. This is intended to reduce the contrast between a bright display and a dark surrounding environment while adding ambient light to the workspace.
Controls are built into an intuitive touch interface. Users can adjust brightness and color temperature, access saved settings and activate features such as presence detection and automatic dimming.
ScreenBar Max was also recognized with a Red Dot Design Award 2026.
Pricing and Availability
The BenQ iScreenBar is now available in silver for $189 MSRP through BenQ and Amazon in the United States. Blue and green versions, inspired by popular iMac color options, are expected later in 2026.
The ScreenBar Max is available on BenQ and Amazon, and it is priced at $289 MSRP, with an optional desk base available separately for $39.
With the iScreenBar and ScreenBar Max, BenQ is positioning its latest lighting products as purpose-built solutions for users who want better desk illumination without sacrificing the appearance or functionality of their monitor setup.
