Every darts player knows the problem: How do I best light my dartboard ? If you want to not only play darts but also perfect it, you need a lot of training and the right equipment.
Optimal dart lighting can help you improve your accuracy during your game. That's why we're giving you tips today on what to look for in your dartboard lighting .
We will also explain to you what dart lighting options are available and how you can buy them or build them yourself .
Why is dartboard lighting so important?
First, let's look at the advantages of an illuminated dartboard. If you play on a dart machine in a pub or dart room , you'll quickly notice that the dartboards are often not perfectly illuminated .
This can negatively impact your playing style . The reason for this is the shadows that form on the dartboard if it is not well lit.
These shadows affect your accuracy , as they make it difficult for the human eye to aim. That's why a dartboard with lighting is so important.
For this reason, you should pay close attention to proper dart lighting. This means that your dartboard should be well lit to avoid shadows .
This will automatically increase your accuracy. Plus, you won't have to go to the dartboard every time to see the result of your throw.
Buy dart lighting
If you want to buy professional dart lighting, we recommend a dartboard ring light system . This dart light ring can be easily mounted on the wall.
A popular ring light and our recommendation is the 360 Lighting System "PLASMA" from Winmau. This dart light illuminates the dartboard evenly and perfectly, without shadows, and without overexposing it .
If you want to not only play darts but also perfect it for yourself, you need a lot of training and the right equipment.
The “PLASMA” system is attached to the metal frame of the dartboard by magnet and is therefore approximately 15 cm away from the dartboard.
This ensures perfect illumination for the dartboard. Small LED lights are used , resulting in very low power consumption.
What is important when buying dart lighting?
Dartboard lighting is essential if you want to play a decent game. However, it's also important to adapt the dart lighting to the existing dartboard. The "PLASMA" system, for example, is attached with a magnet .
Tip: This only works if you have a dartboard with a steel outer rim . For a dartboard cabinet, for example, there's also the perfect dartboard lighting that optimally illuminates the board .
If you keep these things in mind when purchasing dartboard lighting, you are guaranteed to do everything right.
- Brightness : The brightness also depends on the room and how bright or dark it is. You can choose the dart light ring or dart lighting accordingly. Generally, a brightness between 400 and 600 lux is ideal.
- Power supply : Consider how the lighting will be powered . Some models are powered by electrical outlets , while others are battery-operated . Choose the option that best suits your needs when setting up a darts room .
- Dimensions : Make sure the lighting has the right dimensions to fully illuminate the dartboard . Most dartboard lights are designed to fit standard dartboards , but it's always a good idea to double-check. Of course, this also depends on whether you have a 2-hole or 3-hole dartboard .
- Durability and quality : You shouldn't really have to worry about the durability of the LEDs. LEDs typically last up to 35,000 hours . Of course, there are significant differences in quality. However, it's not always the case that buying cheap doesn't always mean buying twice. Check out the reviews of the various dartboard lights to see how high-quality they are. You can't really go wrong with products that are well-known in the darts scene.
- Price : The price can vary greatly , of course. It also depends on your expectations and needs for a dartboard with lighting. You can find a simple dart light ring for under €30 . Of course, there's no upper limit.
- Customer reviews : As mentioned above, you should always check the customer reviews when purchasing your dart lighting. You'll certainly find negative reviews. However, if the positive reviews outweigh the negative ones , you can assume that the dart light ring or dartboard lighting is really good.
Build your own dart lighting
Now we come to the DIY solution for your own dart lighting . We'd like to introduce you to three options . Please note, however, that we do not guarantee the dart lighting.
Track lighting system
First, we'll look at a DIY track lighting system. Here, you can attach a track with several LED spotlights to your ceiling to illuminate the dartboard.
If you then point two or three spotlights at the dartboard , you can achieve sufficient lighting. However, shadows can still be created, for example, by darts stuck in the board.
Another alternative is to place an LED spotlight on the ceiling instead of a traditional ceiling light. You can then direct this spotlight directly at the dartboard.
Make your own dartboard lighting with a 3D printer
If you are lucky enough to own a 3D printer, you have every opportunity to print out a Dart light ring yourself .
It is recommended to attach the dart light ring to the board with a magnetic attachment .
Recreate a ring light
Another option is to build your own ring light. This allows you to recreate a classic ring light like the "PLASMA" system using simple tools .
However, this requires some craftsmanship . You're essentially trying to fit a round frame with individual LED lights, which is then attached around the dartboard .
Tip: You can also build your own dart cabinet and install LED lighting.
Additional dart accessories for a better dart game
In addition to dart lighting, there are also other dart accessories that will help you play. These include a standard oche , a suitable writing board , and, of course, matching darts .
If you want to get better at darts, you should think about what you need and invest a few euros here.
Feel free to write us your experiences and opinions about your dart accessories in the comments!
Conclusion
Building a dart light is not that difficult.
Hobbyists can quickly build their own dartboard lighting . If you're not very handy, you can easily purchase a dartboard light ring or a dartboard with lighting.
Prices have dropped significantly and are nowhere near as high as they were a few years ago. No matter what your ideas and wishes are, there's the right dart lighting for every dartboard and dart cabinet.
When buying, you should just make sure that other customers are also satisfied so that you can enjoy your illuminated dartboard for a long time.
Ready to upgrade your darts game? Discover everything you need to know about the best dart equipment and how it can boost your accuracy:
- Changing and sharpening dart tips : Learn what's important and what you absolutely need to pay attention to here. Click here now!
- Drops, Torpedo & Cylinder: The Dart Barrel Shapes explained in detail. Perfect your throw with the ideal dart barrel shape! Click here & find out more
- 2-hole or 3-hole dartboard ? All the pros and cons at a glance! The most important information in a nutshell. We'll help you make the right decision!
