I use LED headlamps a fair amount. I keep one hanging next to my main work area and pop it on as needed. When preparing a surface for finishing, I often combine the headlamp for direct light with a handheld small led flashlight to provide raking light. As far as brands or brightness, I've used a bunch of brands usually in the $20 range- the kids have a way of making them disappear. I haven't noticed a big difference between models although I've never gone high end.