There are different wattages or output on the light bulbs and different bulbs, daylight, not daylight etc., so perhaps you need a higher output bulb in your light and also check to see that it is a daylight one as well. Not all Ott Lites are created equal. I definitely love mine, but have seen some on sale at times, I don't think are any better than a regular light from the description. I will have to say the daylight fluorescent lights are definitely good, but if you want close hand sewing at night, my daylight ott light on tall stand is great, not sure of the wattage, but it is enough for me for the time being anyway.