Best Bedside Lamps & Table Lamps of 2026

Skip to main contentShoppingThe Best Bedside Lamps and Table Lamps Will Light Up Your LifeSome very bright ideas for your next home upgradeBefore you spin into a redecorating frenzy (step away from the chandeliers…), consider the transformative power of the table lamp. The best bedside lamps are a necessary lighting addition to any bedroom—nighttime reader or not. They also have staying power away from the bedside, should they find their home in another part of the house as your taste shifts: add them to a shelf on a bookcase, show them off in an entryway, let one adorn your kitchen countertop.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 ambience. 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 reviews 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 PicksBest Small LampSerena & Lily Como Petite Table LampRead MoreBest Petite LampFlos Bilboquet Table LampRead MoreBest Lamp for Subtle ColorRejuvenation Roland Table LampRead MoreOur Top PicksMore Lamps We RecommendCan I use a higher wattage bulb than recommended?How We TestedBest Small LampSerena & Lily Como Petite Table LampA built-in dimmer switch allows you to customize the glow. Dimensions: 13.25" Height x 8.25" DiameterMaterials: Ceramic base, hand-glazed with brass hardware; shades in raffia or linenColors: Base: white, coastal blue, sage, dark honey; Shade: white or raffia (in plain taper, fringe, or scalloped finishes)Power source: Plug-inBulb type: E26 Type A15 medium base bulb (60W max) recommendedLight bulb included? NoThe 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.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.”Best Petite LampFlos Bilboquet Table LampThe head is magnetized, so you can direct light in pretty much any direction you choose. Video: Natassia Kuronen; Styling: Alexandra MassillonDimensions: 8" H 2⅜" W 4⅛" DMaterials: Steel, polycarbonateColors: Sage, tomatoPower source: Plug inBulb type: LED 6.5W/GU10/120V bulb recommendedLight bulb included? NoFlos’s Bilboquet Table Lamp, designed by Philippe Malouin, is another seen-before decor moment, as we tapped it for our 2025 gifting shoot. It’s been a mainstay at Fletcher’s work station ever since. “This sexy little lamp has a great glow and looks just as handsome when it isn't turned on,” she told us. “I keep it at my desk and it's a lovely distraction from the standard issue fluorescents here at 1WTC. I love that the bulbous chrome joint is a functional swivel point, which means it can spotlight almost 360 degrees.” An eco-friendly design as well, Flos crafted the lamp’s body from a byproduct of paper production and refrained from using any glue, so the components will be recyclable after a long life spent spotlighting your home.Best Lamp for Subtle ColorRejuvenation Roland Table LampDimensions: 10" Height x 8" DiameterMaterials: Glass, PVC cordColors: Amber, smoke grey, creamPower source: Plug-in, in-line on/off switchBulb type: 0W Type B bulbLight bulb included? NoMax Wattage per Socket: 25WBecause of the opaque shade, this lamp casts a softer, more diffused light than clear or fabric shades.Inspired by Italian modernism, the mushroom shape of Rejuvenation’s Roland table lamp is made entirely of glass. The petite frame is only 10 inches tall, and the lamp casts a soft glow, diffused by the opaque shade. Despite not being dimmable, this bestseller’s light is never hard or stark white. Use this lamp for ambiance in your living room or on your bedside table.Best Dimmable LampFlos Bellhop Rechargeable LED Table LampA button controls this lamp's four-step dimmer. Dimensions: 8.375" Height x 5" DiameterMaterials: PolycarbonateColors: Burnt orange, dark brown, grey, grey blue, white, yellow, matte blackPower source: Rechargeable battery, USB charging cableBulb type: Rechargeable LED bulbLight bulb included? YesIf 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.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.”Best Designer LampMcGee & Co. Vedruna Table LampIf the orange lamp wasn't your style, this ode to an avocado is sure to delight. Dimensions: 13" Height x 9" DiameterMaterials: Ceramic earthenware, metal, fabric shadeColors: BrownPower source: Plug-inBulb type: E26 type A 90 / 9 LED bulb recommendedLight bulb included? YesThe 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.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.Best Midcentury Table LampWest Elm Ribbed Glass Table LampThis lamp comes in three different sizes. We tested the 9" version. Dimensions: 9" Height x 7.75" Diameter; 13.4" Height x 10" Diameter; 18" Height x 13.5" DiameterMaterials: Glass, PVC cordColors: Champagne, amberPower source: Plug-in, in-line on/off switchBulb 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? NoWhile 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.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 shopping 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.”Best Task LampAnalog Task Light by Chris GrannebergThe adjustable top on this geometric lamp allows you to direct the light wherever you need it. Dimensions: 16"H x 4"W x 8"DMaterials: Polymers derived from non-GMO sugarcaneColors: Stone, carbon, and persimmonPower source: Plug-in, in-line on/off switchBulb type: E12 LED dimmable bulb recommendedLight bulb included? YesIf 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.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.”Best Vintage-Style LampPH 2/2 Luna LED Table Lamp by Poul HenningsenDimensions: 10"W x 12.8"H x 7.9"DMaterials: Glass, brassColors: Aged brass, brassPower source: Plug inBulb type: E26 base bulb recommendedLight bulb included? NoThis brass table lamp sits atop Harrison’s liquor cabinet, making it look “far more dignified than the randomly acquired handle of Kahlua would relate.” The assembly was no joke—the lamp arrived with a drop cloth and white gloves for assembling the delicate glass and bronze lamp without leaving fingerprints behind. Harrison says it shed “the light of art deco” across her dining room, and it’s become the one light she leaves on overnight.You can add it to a bookshelf or place it on a bedside table, for those with a modern-leaning designscape, or something more Scandi.More Lamps We RecommendLago Compact Table Lamp by Temporal StudioThe best part of this Gantri table lamp is its 26 different color-blocking combos.“If I could, I’d have 12 of these lamps across my house, each with a different color base,” says shopping writer Julia Harrison. While her Lago sits atop a stack of books on her desk, it’s been known to move around her house to function as a reading light, a bedside table lamp, and task lighting for late-night puzzling. The Lagos sheds a warm white light perfect for winding down and doing a bit of reading (ie: scrolling) before lights out. The red base and white shade would look particularly cute bedside, especially next to a striped bedding setup. Bulb type: 5W T9 E26 Light bulb included? Yes Louis Poulsen Panthella Portable LampFletcher calls this iconic design (known to pop up in many a home tour) one of the “quintessential ‘70s space age silhouettes…when Louis Poulsen released the mini, portable version in late 2024, I was all too happy to give it a spin.” The built-in LED sheds a warm white light with a dimmer you can administer with touch control. To add to the cuteness of this particular silhouette, you can curate from 13 different finishes ranging from primary color to pastels to metallics. Bulb type: LED 7.5W/E12 recommended Light bulb included? No Nickey Kehoe x Dumais Made Pocket Lamp No. 3This “pocket” lamp has been at the top of Harrison’s wishlist since its arrival last year. The collaboration between Nickey Kehoe and Connecticut-based ceramicist Charlie Dumais features many a table lamp, but the gingham-style miniature (4”W x 5.25"H) is perfectly suited for a bedside, a kitchen countertop, a lone shelf, or as an adornment on a set of books. Bulb type: Tala E12 candle, 200 lumens, 4w, 2200k Light bulb included? Yes Heidi Caillier Delfina Table LampCare for an infusion of rustic Italian farmhouse style? Heidi Caillier’s on the case. Decorative lug handles and a green glaze suggest heirloom. Your secret? There’s no Tuscan vineyard written into your inheritance, though this lamp might have your guests assuming otherwise. Bulb type: A19 LED Filament Bulb, 9W Light bulb included? No 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.How We TestedThere are many factors we considered for each of our reviews to give you the insight you need to select the best table lamps for your home, namely the following:Brand snobs: While thousands of companies produce lighting, it’s hard to know who won’t try to sell you dollhouse-sized decor or a fixture with faulty wiring. That’s why we’ve used our brand expertise and design discernment to bring you options from labels you can trust (because we trust them enough to buy from them ourselves!). From brands like West Elm and Wayfair who also produce a sensational sectional or bookshelf to more indie names like Gantri, who specialize in the all things lighting.Delivery and assembly: Did our package arrive within the guaranteed 10-day delivery window? Was the delicate porcelain base carefully packed with the necessary cushioning? Did the instruction manual for assembly look like it could have been ripped out of an astrophysics textbook? We wanted to let you know exactly what to expect from your purchases and called out anything surprising. We also double-checked if a brand provided you with a complimentary bulb or if it’s something you should add to your next Amazon order.Sizing: While we provide specs on exact measurements in all these reviews, sizing can still be a difficult factor to gauge. To help you determine whether or not that CB2 lamp will totally overwhelm your nightstand as well as help you compare the lamps of this list, we shot each close-up with a 2.4-ounce candle as a base point for size comparison.What makes this lamp unique? Does the lamp’s design fit a clear aesthetic? Does it function particularly well in a specific area of the house? Incredibly easy to use? Our reviews were designed to give insight on why each lamp could be the right lamp for your Scandi oasis or midcentury abode. We also wrote about any ingenious details that show how thoughtful the designer was as well as why the piece was just what our tester was looking for.What to keep in mind: Nobody’s perfect, and beauty can be in the eye of the beholder—which is why each lamp also has a note detailing what a potential buyer should keep in mind. For example, if assembly was particularly difficult, the lamp is extremely delicate or hard to clean, and who the design might not be suited for.Looking For More Lighting Ideas?We’ve got some bright ideas worth checking out. In addition to the best bedside table lamps, we have articles dedicated to the best floor lamps for your space, the best online retailers to buy your next fixture, as well as plenty of trend stories that detail styling tips and inspiration. Check them out below:Best Floor Lamps to Brighten Your Space: Lighting should be at the forefront of your decorating plan, which is why we took the liberty of testing out a curated selection of top floor lamp picks from some of our favorite brands (in addition to other great options that score high design marks in our books).The Best Lighting Stores for an Ambience Upgrade: Our AD-approved list of some of our primary lighting store destinations for modern table lamps, sculptural floor lamps, crystal chandeliers, lighted ceiling fans, desk lamps, and more—all with plenty of personality to spare.Best Desk Lamps to Brighten Up: If your work-from-home workspace is feeling a little dark and dreary, allow us to introduce you to some of the best desk lamps around.Bedroom Lighting Ideas to Set a Serene Mood: Planning your bedroom lighting design can make for a fun treasure hunt at lighting stores, but it might feel overwhelming to scan through a bevy of chandeliers, lamps, and wall lights.