Best desk lamp

Illuminate your tabletop with this roundup of the best desk lamps.

Best desk lamp
(Image credit: @Rich Tervet on Unsplash)

A desk lamp keeps your workspace perfectly illuminated. You never have to strain to see or struggle to read with these simple lights. Not only are they incredibly practical, but they come in a whole bunch of different styles too. Your desk lamp will be a functional tabletop addition as well as some stylish office décor. Here's a roundup of my favourites.

Staff pick

best desk lamp

(Image credit: Amazon)

SLATOR desk lamp

Direct the light where it needs to go

This desk lamp has a slim profile that'll complement and workspace, and the articulating head and arm can be positioned to throw light just about anywhere.

Pros:

  • LED lamp
  • Ten brightness levels
  • Five light settings
  • Flexible arm

Cons:

  • Can fall over if tilted too far
  • A bit flimsy

This sleek desk lamp is perfect for tables of all sizes, even the smallest ones. It's thin and only measures 37-by-32 centimetres, so it won't take up too much space or add to the clutter. The lamp's arm and head are hinged and can angle and extend to focus light on the dimmest corners of your desk. You can select from ten brightness levels and five different light settings to achieve the perfect working environment. 

Best fancy

Tomshine crystal table lamp

(Image credit: Amazon)

Tomshine crystal table lamp

Luminous and luxurious

This stunning crystal desk has a vintage style but is updated with useful features like USB charging docs. Who doesn't want the best of both worlds?

Pros:

  • Two USB charging ports
  • Elegant crystal-accented shade
  • Anti-slip mat on base

Cons:

  • Doesn't come with a bulb
  • Not for bulbs over 60 watts

If you're looking for a desk lamp that adds class to your workspace, this chic light is a great choice. Its throwback-style cylindrical shade is detailed with pretty crystals that'll come alive when the light shines through, so it'll provide light and make a statement at the same time. The lamp is attached to a sturdy circular base with two handy USB ports to charge phones and other devices, and there's a stay-put mat that'll also keep surfaces from sustaining scratches. Place this desk lamp anywhere without worrying about scratching up your surfaces. So, slide it anywhere on your desk without a second thought.

Best classic

best desk lamp

(Image credit: Amazon)

Gobikey LED desk lamp

Traditional style that adjusts

This classic-style desk lamp can be modified via its 360-degree gooseneck.

Pros:

  • Touch sensor
  • Three brightness levels
  • 360-degree gooseneck
  • Rechargeable light

Cons:

  • May become dim with use
  • Bulb can get a bit hot

This classic desk lamp has a white finish that'll match any décor, whether your style is contemporary, modern, or rustic. It has a signature look, too, with a familiar angled shade and long neck. The neck does offer a lot of versatility, it can be bent and twisted in any direction to direct light anywhere on your desk. And the lamp is simple to operate, illuminating with a touch sensor. You can even switch between three different brightness levels to achieve the right viewing experience.

Best circular

best desk lamp

(Image credit: Amazon)

ACED moon lamp

Bring outer space to your workspace

For those that marvel at the moon, this lamp will bring its beauty to their desks. Craters and all, this light looks like the real thing, and it can be lit in 16 fun colours. 

Pros:

  • Made with 3D-print technology
  • 16 different colours
  • Can be used without wires too
  • Up to 20-hour battery life

Cons:

  • Battery life can start 
  • Fine details might not be the greatest

For astronomers or space enthusiasts, this lamp makes the moon accessible. The round light emulates the celestial body, complete with craggy craters. As cool as the design is, it's not even the best part. It can be illuminated in 16 different colours to create any aesthetic or mood. As far as a power source goes, if your outlets are all busy fueling your laptop or monitor, this desk lamp can be used cordless as well. It even has an impressive 20-hour battery life.

Best touch

best desk lamp

(Image credit: Amazon)

JIAWEN dimmable USB table lamp

No switches or buttons

Tapping this lamp's base or neck will bring a lot of light to your workspace. Besides easy operation, the lamp has style with an elongated pleated shade.

Pros:

  • Built-in touch sensor
  • Three light settings
  • Two USB charging ports

Cons:

  • USB charger may not be the most powerful
  • Can be difficult to find replacement bulbs

You'll never have to reach for a power switch again with this desk lamp. It has a built-in touch sensor that can be activated along the base and neck. Lightly tap the lamp with your fingertip and the lamp turns on; subsequent taps toggle through three light settings. It's that simple! Let's not forget the cylindrical shade, either; it's perfectly pleated and mutes the light just enough to deliver a soft, warm glow. You'll also enjoy two USB charging ports to keep your cellphone running on full power.

The bottom line

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The best desk lamps keep your workspace bright so you can stay focused. The SLATOR desk lamp has a thin, modern design that looks slick on any table. With ten brightness levels, five light modes, and a flexible arm, this model can be customised to your every need.

The JIAWEN dimmable USB table lamp provides a more cosy feel. Its cylindrical shade softens the light, making your workspace feel inviting. The lamp is touch activated at the base and stand, and there are also two built-in USB charging ports for added convenience.

Why trust us?

At Fit&Well, we recommend the best products to enhance your life. As expert curators, we handpick products based on quality and usefulness to positively impact your day-to-day, from cart to doorstep. We take our responsibility seriously — testing products, reading reviews, and sourcing knowledgeable outlets to ensure our selections are worthy of your time and money. We deliver detailed product overviews, balancing objective information with subjective opinions, so making the best choice for your home and lifestyle is as easy as possible.

Camille Sanghera is a UX writer and copywriter for global brands as well as an author of self-help books. Although she has lived and traveled internationally, Camille is originally from British Columbia, Canada. She merges over 10 years of writing experience with a love of words to bring authenticity and human connection to every project. When not writing, Camille can be found exploring nature with her dog, sketching to music, or laughing with loved ones.

You can chat with Camille on Instagram at @projectpvo.