New premium vs older model. Is the Halo worth the upgrade from the Plus?
The Halo offers auto-dimming, wireless control, and curved monitor support for $40 more. Worth the upgrade for most users.
The Halo is worth $40 more than the Plus for most buyers: auto-dimming, wireless control, and curved-monitor support are meaningful upgrades. The Plus only makes sense if you want the lower price and are fine with a wired controller on a flat monitor.
BenQ ScreenBar Halo: The Halo uses a wireless dial controller.
BenQ ScreenBar Plus: The Plus uses a wired puck.
When this matters: Matters for clean desks.
BenQ ScreenBar Halo: The Halo auto-dims and fits curved monitors.
BenQ ScreenBar Plus: The Plus lacks auto-dimming and suits flat panels.
When this matters: Matters for curved-monitor and light-sensitive users.
BenQ ScreenBar Halo: The Halo costs $169.
BenQ ScreenBar Plus: The Plus at $129 is the budget BenQ.
When this matters: $40 is modest for the upgrade.
| Spec | BenQ ScreenBar Halo | BenQ ScreenBar Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $169 | $129 |
| Control | Wireless knob | Wired dial |
| Auto-Dimming | Yes | No |
| Curved Monitor | Yes | No |
| Brightness | 500 lux | 500 lux |
Most buyers who want auto-dimming, wireless control, and curved support.
If you have a flat monitor and never adjust the light, the Halo premium is wasted.
Budget buyers on flat monitors who accept a wired puck.
If you have a curved monitor or want auto-dimming, the Plus lacks both.
This comparison was built from a structured review of official product documentation, published specifications, current pricing, and feature documentation — the same methodology ToolStep describes on the /how-we-test/ page. Because we did not run these products hands-on, we do not claim testing that did not happen.
Based on official product documentation as of June 2026.
No, the wireless knob is rechargeable via USB-C and lasts about 40 days per charge.