A cordless rechargeable table lamp can be handy on a bedside table, in a child’s bedroom, on the patio or when camping. Without a fixed power cable, you can position it wherever you like and use it away from a socket once it’s charged. However, models vary considerably in battery capacity, charging time, IP rating and controls.
If you focus only on a high battery capacity or decorative design, it’s easy to overlook important details. Here are three common pitfalls to watch out for:
Battery capacity is usually given in milliamp-hours (mAh). A higher figure may indicate a longer running time, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. LED power, brightness setting and controls also make a difference.
For occasional use as a night light or bedside lamp, a smaller battery is often enough. If you regularly use an outdoor table lamp, camping light or portable table lamp in the evening, look for clear running time figures for different brightness settings.
A USB-C port makes charging easier, as many households already have a compatible power adaptor. Even so, check that the product works with the power source you have. For example, the flameless table lamp in our selection specifies a charging requirement of 5 V and 2 A.
A dimmable table lamp is more versatile than one with just a single brightness setting. Soft, warm light is often enough for a bedroom. A brighter setting may be useful on a dining table, balcony or campsite.
Useful features include:
An RGB night light is mainly useful for decorative purposes. It won’t necessarily replace a bright task or reading lamp. If you’re buying for children, also check for small parts, sharp edges and easily accessible charging ports.
Soft silicone lamps with rounded shapes are well suited to children’s bedrooms. According to the product description, the VIVREAL lamp is made from soft silicone and intended for indoor use. It must not be submerged in water or used near flames or strong heat sources.
For a balcony, patio or campsite, the IP rating is important. An IP44 lamp is splash-resistant, but shouldn’t be left exposed to rain for long periods or submerged in water. For dry indoor spaces or sheltered outdoor areas, a metal, ABS or plastic casing may be suitable, depending on the design.
Stability matters too: a non-slip base helps stop the lamp sliding on smooth surfaces. If you’ll be carrying it around, a low weight and sturdy handle are useful.
Why it suits this profile: This compact silicone lamp is designed for bedrooms, children’s rooms and use by the bed. Its 1200-mAh battery charges via USB.
It’s clearly intended for indoor use. The product description also specifies cleaning with a soft, damp cloth rather than immersing it in water.
Soft silicone, built-in 1200-mAh battery and no assembly required.
Why it suits this profile: This model combines a 4000-mAh battery with four touch-controlled brightness settings and IP44 splash protection, making it suitable for sheltered outdoor areas, kitchens or bedrooms.
The IP44 rating makes its splash protection clear. Still, don’t mistake it for protection against being submerged.
4000-mAh battery, four-level touch dimming and 360-degree light distribution, according to the product description.
Why it suits this profile: The simulated flame effect makes this lamp a decorative lighting choice for the living room, table or parties. According to the product information, it dims steplessly from 5 to 100 per cent.
The product details specify the charging port, charging time and battery capacity: USB-C, around 3 to 4 hours to charge and 1800 mAh.
3000 K warm light, USB-C charging, dimming from 5 to 100 per cent and a flame-like LED effect.
Why it suits this profile: This lamp offers warm white light, seven RGB colours, touch controls and a 30-minute timer for bedrooms, children’s rooms or camping.
The controls are clearly described: double-tap to switch the lamp on or off, press and hold to dim, and use the timer to turn it off after 30 minutes.
1500-mAh battery, USB-C port, dimming from 100 to 5 per cent and a choice of RGB colours.
First, check where you plan to put the lamp. For a bedside lamp, low minimum brightness, warm light and straightforward controls are useful. In a child’s bedroom, the materials, stability and manufacturer’s safety advice are especially important.
For patios, balconies and camping, make sure the IP rating, base and ease of carrying all suit your needs. An IP44 lamp can withstand splashes, but isn’t automatically suitable for heavy rain or extended outdoor storage. Only charge built-in batteries using suitable power sources, and follow the advice on damaged or swollen batteries.
We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.
Depending on the model, it charges via USB or USB-C. Before using it for the first time, fully charge the battery according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Check the voltage and current before using a power adaptor you already own.
Battery life depends on battery capacity, LED power and brightness setting. Manufacturers’ figures often refer to the lowest setting. For a realistic estimate, look for running time figures across several brightness levels.
That depends on its IP rating and safety instructions. A model with an IP44 rating is designed to withstand splashes, but not to be submerged. Lamps without a stated outdoor protection rating should only be used indoors or in dry, sheltered areas.