Buying a table lamp: a guide to design, lighting and practical features

A table lamp should suit your room, provide enough light and be easy to use every day. But LED table lamps, bedside lamps, designer table lamps and decorative table lights differ in more than just appearance and price. The type of bulb holder, dimensions, switch, power supply and compatible bulbs all affect whether a lamp is right for you.

If you choose based only on colour or shape, it’s easy to overlook important details. Three common buying pitfalls are particularly worth watching out for:

• Bulb not included: Several lamps need a suitable LED bulb, which you’ll have to buy separately. Check the bulb holder and maximum wattage before placing your order.
• Features confused with functions: A lamp with a touch switch isn’t necessarily dimmable. And “LED” doesn’t automatically mean you can change the colour temperature or brightness.
• Dimensions don’t suit the space: A tall table lamp could tip over on a small bedside table or block your view. For shelves and narrow console tables, check the height, base footprint and cable length.

The most important things to consider before you buy

1. Bulb holder, bulb and wattage

With an E27 table lamp or an E14 table lamp, the bulb holder is key. E27 is a widely used standard fitting with a larger screw thread, while E14 is more compact. The figures “max. 25 W”, “max. 28 W” or “max. 40 W” refer to the maximum wattage of the bulb you can use, and must not be exceeded.

Also check whether a bulb is included:

• The Brilliant Mushroom Design Table Lamp has an E14 bulb holder for LED or candle bulbs up to 28 W; the bulb is not included.
• The Premier Housewares Tripod Table Lamp uses an E27 bulb, up to 40 W; this lamp is also supplied without a bulb.
• With an integrated LED table lamp, the light source is built in. It may not be replaceable.

Warm white light is a popular choice for the bedroom. For a desk or home office, a more neutral light colour may be more practical. The best option depends on how you plan to use the lamp, and isn’t automatically a feature of the table lamp itself.

2. Size, stability and space

Measure the space where you plan to put the lamp before you buy. A bedroom lamp should leave enough room on your bedside table for books, an alarm clock or your mobile phone to remain within easy reach.

As a guide:

• Compact models around 20 to 30 cm high work well on bedside tables, shelves and small side tables.
• Models around 40 to 60 cm high make more of a statement and need a stable surface.
• A wide lampshade may take up more room than the base of the lamp suggests.

The weight and shape of the base matter too. If the lamp is made from materials such as glass, marble or metal, make sure it stands on a level surface. It shouldn’t slide easily if the cable is pulled or it gets knocked accidentally.

3. Controls, power supply and IP rating

A dimmable table lamp offers different brightness levels, provided this feature is clearly stated. A touch switch is simply for turning the lamp on and off unless dimming is specifically mentioned. For battery-powered models, check the charging connection, battery life and charge level.

IP20 is a common rating for dry indoor spaces. It doesn’t mean the lamp is protected against water, so models with IP20 shouldn’t be used in damp rooms or near splashing water.

A table lamp with a USB port can provide a handy place to charge your mobile phone or e-reader. Check whether the port only works when the lamp is on, or also supplies power when it’s switched off. The product information should also make clear whether it has a USB charging port or simply a USB cable for power.

Which table lamp is right for your needs?

Ideal for: budget-conscious first-time buyers

Brilliant Mushroom Design Table Lamp

Why this product suits your needs: At 27 cm high and 15 cm in diameter, this compact lamp is well suited to bedside tables, shelves and sideboards. Its E14 bulb holder lets you choose a suitable LED bulb.

How this product helps you avoid a common pitfall

The bulb holder, maximum wattage and the fact that a bulb isn’t included are all clearly stated. That makes it easier to plan for the additional purchase in advance.

Key benefits and features

Metal body, round shade, pull-cord switch and 150 cm cable.

Ideal for: buyers who expect high quality

Premier Housewares Tripod Table Lamp with white fabric shade

Why this product suits your needs: The combination of a fabric shade, wooden legs and slim metal stem complements Scandinavian-style living rooms and bedrooms. At 60 cm high, it also works well on larger side tables.

How this product helps you avoid a common pitfall

The product details list its dimensions, materials, assembly requirements and E27 bulb holder, which supports bulbs up to 40 W. This makes its larger space requirements clear.

Key benefits and features

Wooden legs, white fabric shade, EU plug and softly diffused light through the shade.

Ideal for: specialist uses and frequent use

Atmosphera Zola LED table lamp

Why this product suits your needs: This compact, rechargeable lamp with touch controls can be placed wherever you need it indoors, whether on a dining table, side table or sideboard.

How this product helps you avoid a common pitfall

The product details clearly specify the rechargeable battery, USB cable, touch switch and lack of a dimming function. This helps you distinguish between portability and the features on offer.

Key benefits and features

Integrated LED, height of 20 to 21.2 cm, 100 cm USB cable and IP20 rating for dry indoor spaces.

Ideal for: tech-savvy users

Tubicen Dual-Layer Table Lamp

Why this product suits your needs: For a bedside table, office or living room, this model offers touch controls, three colour temperature settings, stepless dimming and a built-in USB port.

How this product helps you avoid a common pitfall

Each control is listed separately: touch sensor, three lighting modes, stepless brightness adjustment and USB charging port.

Key benefits and features

Metal construction, 40 cm height, USB port, and combined colour temperature and dimming controls.

Frequently asked questions about table lamps

Which table lamp is best for a bedside table?

Compact models around 20 to 30 cm high are usually easier to place on a bedside table. A stable base, easy-to-reach controls and a cable that reaches the socket are important too. A rechargeable bedside lamp can be a good choice if there isn’t a power socket nearby.

How much does it cost to run an LED table lamp?

Running costs depend on the wattage, how many hours you use the lamp each day and your electricity tariff. Here’s a simple way to work them out: power in kilowatts × hours of use × price per kilowatt-hour. For example, a 6 W LED bulb uses 0.06 kWh when switched on for ten hours. The exact cost depends on your tariff.

How long does a table lamp last?

For lamps with a replaceable bulb, lifespan depends mainly on the bulb you use. An E14 or E27 table lamp can continue to be used with a replacement LED bulb, as long as the body, cable and switch are in good condition. For models with integrated LEDs, check before buying whether the manufacturer gives details about LED lifespan and whether the light source can be replaced.