Desk Lamps

Desk lamps range from simple fixed task lamps to adjustable arm lamps, clamp lamps and models with wireless charging pads or charging ports in the base. The first decision is the work you do at the desk, because reading and paperwork need light spread across a large area, while detailed work such as model making or sewing needs bright, focused light close to the task.

Light quality matters more than the wattage figure. Among the 5 products that list wattage, most fall between 5.4 and 18 watts, and 7 watts is typical. Most lamps on this page use integrated light boards, and the power figure describes how much electricity the lamp draws rather than how bright it is. Look for the brightness and colour temperature in the listing, and for a high colour rendering figure if you work with colours. Adjustable brightness and warm to cool settings help in the evening and when sharing a room.

Reach and placement come next. A long arm with several joints lets you place the light where you need it and keep it out of your eyes, and a clamp frees desk space on small desks. A heavy base keeps a long arm lamp from tipping. Glare on screens and glossy paper is common, so position the lamp to the side of your writing hand rather than directly in front.

Before buying, check the arm reach, the base size or clamp opening, how the lamp is controlled, whether the light board can be replaced, and whether a power adapter is included. Keep cords tidy and away from hot drinks and the edge of the desk. For children's desks, a lamp with a cool touch shade and a sturdy base is the safer choice. If you work at a computer, a light bar that sits on top of the monitor is an alternative that leaves the desk clear and lights the keyboard without glare on the screen.

How we list products: every listing here has a recorded price, a minimum customer rating and enough ratings or monthly sales. Generic and unbranded listings are left out; every real brand stays, including brands sold only on Amazon. Products are ordered by the same ProductDome score on every page.Editorial policy