Before you spin into a redecorating frenzy (step away from the chandeliers), consider the transformative power of the table lamp. The best table lamps provide a bold and bright impact to any room, from home offices to dining rooms—and not just because of the light they shine. You can add them to a shelf on a bookcase, place them on a bedside table, show them off in an entryway, and get highly creative with their style. High-design lamps can also make a statement wherever you place them. While lamps with chrome or brass finishes serve as radiant and eye-catching accents, those made with marble, terra-cotta, or travertine can add texture to a sleek space.
Accent lighting has always been a thing, but lately, with the rise of anti–Big Light content on TikTok and Reels, the demand for cute, trendy ambient lighting options is going way up. And we get it—relying on built-in overhead light fixtures feels cold and corporate, while smaller lamps create a warmer ambiance. That’s why we had the bright idea to test a curated selection of top picks from some of our favorite brands (in addition to other great options that score high design marks in our books). In each of our reviewers you’ll find an AD editor’s testimony as to what makes each light stand out, how they use it in their space, and what’s something buyers should keep in mind. The hardest part now will be deciding on just one or two.
(Lamps pictured with a 2.4-ounce candle for size comparison)
Our Top Picks
- Best Mid-Century Table Lamp: Article Moon Gold Table Lamp, $149 from Article
- Best Statement Lamp: Urban Outfitters Orange Table Lamp, $99 from Urban Outfitters
- Best Coastal Chic Lamp: Serena & Lily Como Petit Table Lamp, $268 from Serena & Lily
- Best Glass Lamp: West Elm Ribbed Glass Table Lamp, $99 from West Elm
- Best Portable Lamp: Flowerpot V9 Rechargeable LED Table Lamp, $315 from Anthropologie
- Best Small Lamp: Pottery Barn Fallon Forged Iron Table Lamp, $199 Pottery Barn
- Best Rechargeable Lamp: Flos Bellhop rechargeable Table Lamp, $319 from DWR
- Best Cottagecore Lamp: Lulu & Georgia Jordan Table Lamp, $198 from Lulu & Georgia
- Best Shape: McGee & Co. Vedruna Table Lamp, $325 from McGee & Co.
- Best Fabric Lamp: Scrunch Black and White Table Lamp by Kara Mann, $179 from CB2
- Best Task Lamp: Analog Task Lamp, $248 from Gantri
Despite its oversized bulb, this lamp has a small footprint—perfect for a nightstand that could use some elegance. The base is made of a brushed metal and it has a fabric-wrapped cord, providing the perfect anchor for the frosted glass shade. Contributor Andrea Lewis particularly loved the “seamless” assembly process as well as the “simple, petite, and versatile” midcentury-modern design. “The Moon Gold table lamp from Article has become a staple in my bedroom—its misted glass shade casts a prominent warm light that’s perfect for reading,” she says. “Whether you place it on a study desk, beside your bed, or in your living room, this small but powerful lamp radiates generously.”
- Dimensions: 11″ Height x 6″ Diameter
- Materials: Steel, glass, plastic, textile cord
- Colors: Gold
- Power source: Plug-in
- Bulb type: E26 4W LED, accommodates 25W max recommended
- Light bulb included? Yes
Any dust build up will be slightly more noticeable with this design, so you may have to be diligent in keeping the glass surface wiped clean.
This juicy lamp reminds us of the brightly colored hard candy you might find at the bottom of your grandma’s purse. With a playful produce-inspired design that can be set on a base or hung from the ceiling, this charming piece is sure to draw oohs and ahhs from anyone who loves decor you can sink your teeth into.
- Dimensions: 8.7″ Height x 8.7″ Diaemeter
- Materials: Glass, polyresin, fabric cord, iron
- Colors: Orange
- Power source: Plug-in, in-line on/off switch
- Bulb type: E12 Standard Base 7W Bulb recommended
- Light bulb included? No
According to Urban Outfitters, this lamp can be used in two ways: perched on its ring-shaped base (as pictured) or hung as a pendant. While the latter is doable on a functional level, it looks pretty bizarre when suspended from the ceiling, as the faux leaves point straight down.
Looking for some living room table lighting with a touch of coastal grandma style? Look no further than this rattan lamp from Serena and Lily. With its petite size, the light can fill up empty nooks and crannies while perfectly illuminating them. “What immediately caught my eye was how the unique, trendy raffia shade complements the sleek ceramic base beautifully,” associate visuals editor Shani Kravetz told us. “The lamp is the perfect size for a desk or kitchen counter, adding a warm, ambient glow and delightful pop of style.”
- Dimensions: 13.25″ Height x 8.25″ Diameter
- Materials: Ceramic base, hand-glazed with brass hardware; shades in raffia or linen
- Colors: Base: white, coastal blue, sage, dark honey; Shade: white or raffia (in plain taper, fringe, or scalloped finishes)
- Power source: Plug-in
- Bulb type: E26 Type A15 medium base bulb (60W max) recommended
- Light bulb included? No
The switch requires a substantial turn to activate and may not be the best choice for illuminating a full workspace. If the Raffia Wave shade isn’t your style, there’s three other shade options available, along with a range of colored bases.
This design-forward white table lamp (which is inspired by a Japanese lantern) has us doing a double take thanks to its silhouette and subtle texture. According to commerce editor Audrey Lee, “There’s something about this little lamp that’s incredibly soothing.” With a glass shape that doesn’t scream “light fixture,” it’s the perfect way to add pizzazz to any nightstand or dimly lit corner, especially if you prefer contemporary or postmodern design aesthetics. “This West Elm light emits a subtle glow in such a beautiful way, and I love that the ribbed design doesn’t disappear when it’s turned on,” says Audrey. “I like to have just this on if I’m about to turn in for the night but want to watch a show or two to help lull me to sleep—it’s just perfect.”
- Dimensions: 9″ Height x 7.75″ Diameter; 13.4″ Height x 10″ Diameter; 18″ Height x 13.5″ Diameter
- Materials: Glass, PVC cord
- Colors: Champagne, amber
- Power source: Plug-in, in-line on/off switch
- Bulb type: 60W incandescent bulb or LED equivalent recommended, 9″ size has E12 bulb socket; 13″ and 18″ sizes have E26 bulb socket.
- Light bulb included? No
While it’s definitely not dim, this lamp might be best served as a mood lighting moment rather than a solid light source you’d want for reading or working.
Not only is the Flowerpot Lamp, designed by Verner Panton, a modern design staple–it’s also a portable lamp with endless versatility. Need a little more light during transitional hours? How about an extra glow for your outdoor dining table? Commerce director Rachel Fletcher called the petite light source “By far one of the cutest things I own.” Great for emitting “a soft, romantic light,” Rachel loves that it can easily live at her desk or tag along to a backyard hang thanks to the portable design. “I have the bright forest green, which gives me frog on a lily pad vibes every time I look at it, and it comes in lots of other shades including more subdued earth tones and metallics.” And if you love the look but want something more substantial, it is also available in a pendant style as well as a larger, plugged in version (seen here in podcaster Karen Kilgariff’s LA office).
- Dimensions: 11.5″ Height x 9″ Diameter
- Materials: Polycarbonate, steel
- Colors: Swim blue, cobalt blue, stone blue, tangy pink, vermillion red, dark plum, mustard, signal green, matte black, matte white, matte light grey, grey beige, brass-plated, chrome-plated
- Power source: Rechargeable battery, micro USB charging cable
- Bulb type: 3W LED built-in bulb
- Light bulb included? Yes
This lamp, compared to the portable Bellhop, doesn’t have a very long charge (the Flowerpot is said to last 10 hours while the Bellhop estimates 24). It also requires its own charging cord (included) that has to be angled just so, as it’s hidden under the base of the lamp, which seems like a slightly annoying design feature.
The rustic iron base and clean white shade makes this Pottery Barn lamp perfect for anyone looking to build a modern space that’s classic, simple, and vintage-inspired. “It’s slim enough that it won’t overwhelm wherever you’ll put it,” notes Audrey. “You kind of get the best of both worlds with this little lamp: The textured base gives the piece an unfinished look, but the crisp, linen shade makes it feel pristine and less harsh.” Easy to style in your office, bedroom, living room, or kitchen, we think this is an especially versatile option if you’re looking to buy the same lamp to have in multiple areas of your home.
- Dimensions: 22″ Height x 8″ Diameter; 31.5″ Height x 10″ Diameter
- Materials: Forged rustic iron and aluminum, linen shade
- Colors: Bronze
- Power source: Plug-in, on socket on/off switch
- Bulb type: 75W type A standard bulb or LED equivalent recommended
- Light bulb included? No
Assembly is minimal but don’t be afraid to put in some muscle when you’re trying to lock the shade holder onto the lamp base. You’ll also want to avoid any super abrasive cleaning products to protect the metal finish.
If you have an outdoor space, you know the importance of having a cordless lamp you can tote on the short journey inside to grab more drinks or snacks once the sun has gone down. Or maybe you want to guide guests to the backyard for a little midnight gossip session around the fire pit. Whatever it is, this rechargeable lamp is easy to grab and is available in a plethora of colors. With a “vaguely mushroomy” look according to Rachel, its small stature and four dimmable light levels makes it endlessly versatile. “I’ve seen them featured in Hypebeast homes, minimalist Barcelona bedrooms, tiny Sydney apartments, and grand Austin estates, so chances are it’ll work for whatever design scheme resonates with you,” says Rachel. “The last note I’d make is that the price point is quite steep at over $300 for such a tiny piece. While there are lots of dupes on the market, I’d definitely stick with the original as it’s been through the ringer with me for the last two years.”
- Dimensions: 8.375″ Height x 5″ Diameter
- Materials: Polycarbonate
- Colors: Burnt orange, dark brown, grey, grey blue, white, yellow, matte black
- Power source: Rechargeable battery, USB charging cable
- Bulb type: Rechargeable LED bulb
- Light bulb included? Yes
If you’re looking for a super bright desk or task lamp, this is not it! I’d also opt for a non matte option in the future because the black shows all the imperfections which, because I tote it around a lot, there are many bumps and bruises.
This updated take on a vintage silhouette from Lulu & Georgia is sure to steal the show. “The Jordan is the Goldilocks of table lamps—not too dim, not too bright…just right,” says AD Pro associate director Lila Allen.” Describing it as “a wee bit on the smaller side,” Lila found a perfect place for the piece on her nightstand. “Its ruffled, patterned fabric and wavy shade mean it fits well into a cottagecore scheme, if that’s your thing, but its metallic sheen on the base gives it a little edge and allows it to blend into more eclectic interiors too.” With a corded toggle switch that makes it easy to switch on and off there’s no need to crank your arm into the interior of the shade.
- Dimensions: 13.75″ Height x 13.1″ Diameter
- Materials: Steel, linen shade
- Colors: Antique brass
- Power source: Plug-in, in-line on/off switch
- Bulb type: E12 40W bulb recommended
- Light bulb included? No
Buyers should be aware that this lamp requires an E12-base bulb (I couldn’t find one at my local hardware store, but Amazon had plenty). Cleaning is a mixed bag: The base can be wiped with a cloth, but the fabric shade might take a bit more care. If your home tends to collect dust, a lint roller should do the job.
Interiors guru Shea McGee brings her signature touch to this quirky table lamp. “Multiple friends and passersby have noted how much the base looks like a design-forward avocado,” Audrey remarks. “I think this lamp could really work in pretty much any space, from more reserved interiors to design schemes that lean more eclectic.” The sculptural base of this decorative light is topped with a neutral white linen shade for a striking contrast that keeps things feeling coastal chic in a contemporary way. For this lamp, you’ll want to keep it looking pristine with a dry cloth to wipe away dust and smudges, avoiding harsh cleaners that might damage the finish.
- Dimensions: 13″ Height x 9″ Diameter
- Materials: Ceramic earthenware, metal, fabric shade
- Colors: Brown
- Power source: Plug-in
- Bulb type: E26 type A 90 / 9 LED bulb recommended
- Light bulb included? Yes
The base of the lamp is a bit on the heavy side so you may want to take the necessary precautions to ensure it doesn’t tip over.
Another of the best bedside lamps (or side table lamps, for that matter) is this fabric-covered CB2 find with a unique scrunched shade and all-over abstract print. “I was immediately enamored with the allover squiggle motif because it makes it feel more like an art piece than just a lamp to me,” says commerce producer Lauren Arzbaecher. “The black fabric slightly dampens the brightness it gives off, but the completely open top to the shade evens it out for an amount of light perfect for a nightstand.” Anyone interested in this number will also appreciate that the lamp is durably made in Lauren’s experience. “My sleepy self is not always careful when I reach out to turn on the light after waking up, so I was a little worried about the tall and fairly skinny base because I’ve had tipping issues before with lamps that have a similar shape. Thankfully, that hasn’t been an issue with this one, as the base is weighted enough to keep it stable.”
- Dimensions: 23″ Height x 13″ Diameter
- Materials: Iron, cotton fabric
- Colors: Black and white, ivory and gold
- Power source: Plug-in
- Bulb type: 9W max type A LED bulb or 60W max type A incandescent bulb recommended
- Light bulb included? No
Being fully wrapped in fabric, dust tends to cling to this lamp a bit more than others, particularly to the shade due to the pleats. It’s easy enough to wipe away with a soft cloth though, and I was pleasantly surprised how the pleats stood up to cleaning.
Consider the Gantri Analog Task Lamp two-faced: It can set a mood and get down to work when it needs to. If there ever was a lamp that looked like it was going to sprout legs and march right off the table, this is it. There are three colors to choose from (stone, carbon, and persimmon), and the light switch has dimming capabilities. Visuals editor Lizzie Soufleris describes the piece as “a perfect desk lamp,” thanks to the dimmable light that can rotate a full 230 degrees in either direction. “Don’t let the oversized Rubik’s cube–esque look fool you–this lamp is highly functional,” she adds. “Plus, the exterior is made of GPP, Gantri’s sustainably sourced sugarcane polymer blend.”
- Dimensions: 16″H x 4″W x 8″D
- Materials: Polymers derived from non-GMO sugarcane
- Colors: Stone, carbon, and persimmon
- Power source: Plug-in, in-line on/off switch
- Bulb type: E12 LED dimmable bulb recommended
- Light bulb included? Yes
If you plan to place a lamp several feet from the nearest outlet, look no further; the Analog has a looooong cord. While I love that kind of flexibility, the excess is a bit bulky and difficult to tuck away neatly. It’s not a deal breaker by any means, but cable-management-heads may want to invest in some extra large cord clips to keep everything tidy.
Light Bulbs: Can I use a higher wattage bulb than recommended?
While you can use a higher watt light bulb than your light fixture suggests, we wouldn’t recommend it. Wattage relates to how much power a particular device uses, and if more than the design allows is being used, you face the risk of ‘overlamping,’ meaning your fixture will start to run particularly hot. This is bad for a few reasons: Overheating can melt bulb sockets and wiring and, in the worst cases, lead to an electrical fire. It may also cost you more in the long run and be less energy-efficient—if your bulbs are drawing too much energy, it’ll likely mean having to replace them more frequently. If you’re still confused on the correct bulb to look for, we hope this handy visual guide will help.
