Here are the best lamps for every style and budget. The base is only 11 inches in diameter, so while it can stand alone as a statement piece, it can also fit into tight corners next to chairs, sofas, or dresser. Assembly is easy, although the lamp shade arrives disassembled, which is convenient for shipping purposes but does add a few extra steps when you’re setting up. Price at time of publish: $120 This light offers up to 16 hours of illumination and can be recharged through a USB (included in packaging). It’s also water resistant, so you could use it as a tea light while hosting a dinner party outside. While this lamp is certainly expensive, we think its versatility and minimalist design make it a great option for a muted light fixture on a beside table or dining table. Price at time of publish: $149 Price at time of publish: $100 The ivory lamp shade finishes off the look, warming up the aesthetic and balancing out the metal. The base comes in four finishes—antique brass, blackened bronze, brushed nickel, and white—so you’re sure to find one that fits into any decor. Place it on your nightstand, side table, or console, either on its own or with small decorative pieces like candles and plants. Price at time of publish: $115 With three dimmer settings, this lamp offers excellent bright light for working hours, and slightly dimmer light once dusk falls to help your eyes adjust. You don’t even have to press a particular button to see this effect—simply touch any part of the lamp to activate the dimmer settings. You can also move the 360-degree rotating head for the best lighting angle. Price at time of publish: $50 They measure 31-inches from base to the top of the shade, and have a white, cotton drum shade. Each light comes with one LED bulb and is equipped with a power cord and rocker switch. Our only concern is this lamp may be too large for some smaller bedside tables. It’s also quite the statement in height, so we suggest balancing it with a taller headboard, if possible. Price at time of publish: $245 When surrounded by the pink-toned salt, the 15-watt light bulb inside emits a warm amber glow that’s calming and purifying. Bonus: You can control the amount of light with the dimmer switch integrated into the cord. And take note that because it’s made of natural materials, the size, color, and shape of the lamp will vary, so no two are exactly alike. Price at time of publish: $35
Size
Another thing to consider is size. Be sure to consider the lamp’s measurements, including the base and the shade, especially if you’re working with a tight space. While a certain floor lamp might look slim enough to fit in a tight corner, its base could be too bulky. Similarly, be sure to identify exactly where a table lamp is going to go first so you can avoid buying an overly bulky or heavy piece.
Design
Of course, design—or aesthetic—is an important part of the equation too. While you want to find a lamp that’s functional and the appropriate size for your space, you also want to make sure that you actually like how it looks. Choose a lamp that’s appropriate for your decor and then consider things like color and finish (metal, matte, wood) to find the perfect fit. Lamps are an excellent way to add some personality and ambiance to your space, so have fun with them, especially if you buy one that has a removable lamp shade you can replace to switch things up.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Lindsay Boyers writes about lifestyle, home, and decor for The Spruce. She has a keen eye for detail and knows how important it is to create a space you love. Much to her younger self’s dismay, you can likely find her watching home improvement shows on HGTV. Emma Phelps, an updates writer for The Spruce, also assisted with this roundup by selecting new picks and refreshing product descriptions.
