We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Reading Lamps 2026 in the United States

BenQ MindDuo 2 Kids Study Lamp (Purple), Wide & Even Illumination, Auto Dimming, Brightness & Color Adjustment, Presence Detection

Brightness: 500 lux
Color Temperature: 2700K to 5700K
Adjustability: 7 temps, brightness, height, angles
Power Source: Corded Electric
Size and Design: 7.33x9.95x23.48 inches, child-friendly
Light Source Type: LED
How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Verilux SmartLight Full Spectrum LED Modern Floor Lamp with Adjustable Brightness, Flexible Gooseneck and Easy Controls - Reduces Eye Strain and Fatigue - Ideal for Reading, Artists, Craft (White)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,211
Brightness
Color Temperature
Adjustability

Most important from
6548 reviews

Brightness
The lamp has excellent warmth options and a good range of brightness settings, ideal for tired eyes.
Color Temperature
The light is excellent for reading, with adjustable color and intensity.
Adjustability
Touch controls are a standout feature, making it easy to turn on/off and adjust settings with a light touch.
Size and Design
Assembles quickly but does take some strength; the lamp is stable and solid.
Light Source Type
Great for seeing fabric colors more easily, especially in rooms with insufficient lighting.

The Verilux SmartLight Full Spectrum LED Floor Lamp is designed with reading and detailed tasks in mind. Its full spectrum LED light delivers bright, true-to-life colors, which can help reduce eye strain and fatigue. Users can personalize their experience with five brightness levels and three color temperature settings, ranging from warm white to daylight, ensuring a comfortable lighting environment for various activities.

The lamp's flexible gooseneck and modern design make it adaptable and suitable for any space, whether it's an office, reading nook, or craft room. The lamp is also flicker-free and equipped with an Optix lens to control glare, further enhancing eye comfort. However, it is corded and requires a power outlet, which may limit its placement options. The lamp is also relatively heavy at 11 pounds, which might make it less portable.

Additionally, although it offers a robust lighting solution, its 800 lumens of brightness may not be sufficient for those who require extremely bright lighting. The touch controls provide ease of use, and the robust metal construction ensures durability. This lamp is a reliable choice for those seeking a versatile and efficient reading lamp.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,211
Brightness
Color Temperature
Adjustability

Most important from
6548 reviews

Brightness
The lamp has excellent warmth options and a good range of brightness settings, ideal for tired eyes.
Color Temperature
The light is excellent for reading, with adjustable color and intensity.
Adjustability
Touch controls are a standout feature, making it easy to turn on/off and adjust settings with a light touch.
Size and Design
Assembles quickly but does take some strength; the lamp is stable and solid.
Light Source Type
Great for seeing fabric colors more easily, especially in rooms with insufficient lighting.
#2

BenQ e-Reading Desk Lamp - Ultrawide and Bright Lighting, Dimmable, Dual Smart Mode, Adjustable Arm, Auto-dimming, High CRI, Eye-Caring Lamp for Home Office, Reading, Study, Craft, Matte Gold

Rating
10.0
Brightness
Color Temperature
Size and Design

Most important from
160 reviews

Brightness
The lamp delivers just the right amount of light, perfect for detailed tasks like crafts.
Color Temperature
Adjusting color temperature and brightness is effortless with intuitive controls, making it very user-friendly.
Size and Design
Its sturdy, well-constructed design feels built to last and adds a touch of elegance to any desk.
Adjustability
The adjustable arms and solid base provide excellent positioning and stability, enhancing overall usability.

The BenQ e-Reading Desk Lamp is designed to provide excellent lighting for reading, studying, and computer work with several thoughtful features. Its standout strength is the ultrawide illumination area, covering a large desk space (about 35"x27") with a bright 1600 lux light, so you won’t struggle with dim spots. It offers a high color rendering index (CRI over 95), which means colors appear natural and true–great if you do art or crafts. You can easily adjust brightness and color temperature across 13 levels, ranging from warm to cool light, helping you find the most comfortable setting for your eyes. Two smart modes automatically adjust lighting for screens or paper, reducing glare and eye strain.

The adjustable arm and patented joints let you position the light exactly where you need it, and the sturdy design keeps it steady. This lamp uses energy-efficient LED lighting and is corded, so you don’t have to worry about batteries but will need a nearby outlet. It’s a bit on the heavier side and requires assembly, which might not suit everyone. The matte gold finish gives it a modern look that fits well in home offices or study rooms.

One downside is that it’s not portable or battery-powered, so it’s best for a fixed desk setup. This lamp is ideal for those who want high-quality, customizable lighting to reduce eye fatigue during long reading or work sessions, especially if you value wide coverage and color accuracy.

Rating
10.0
Brightness
Color Temperature
Size and Design

Most important from
160 reviews

Brightness
The lamp delivers just the right amount of light, perfect for detailed tasks like crafts.
Color Temperature
Adjusting color temperature and brightness is effortless with intuitive controls, making it very user-friendly.
Size and Design
Its sturdy, well-constructed design feels built to last and adds a touch of elegance to any desk.
Adjustability
The adjustable arms and solid base provide excellent positioning and stability, enhancing overall usability.
#3

Globe Electric Novogratz x 67225 65" Floor Lamp, 2-Tone Wood Toned Base, White Fabric Shade, Socket Rotary Switch, Living Room Décor, Reading Light, Home Essentials, Bedroom, Office Accessories

Rating
9.7
Color Temperature
Size and Design

Most important from
821 reviews

Color Temperature
The lamp offers flexibility with color-changing bulbs, allowing you to get the lighting just right.
Size and Design
The design is gorgeous, with quality you can feel in the materials and craftsmanship.

The Globe Electric Novogratz x Globe Harrington 65" Floor Lamp offers an elegant and stylish design with a two-tone faux wood base and a white fabric shade that diffuses light nicely, making it suitable for various décor styles. You can choose your preferred bulb color temperature to create either a warm or cold ambiance.

The lamp stands at 65 inches tall, which is a good height for reading purposes, and its rotary switch makes it easy to use. However, the lamp requires an E26 Medium Base 60W bulb, which is sold separately. Adjustability is limited as the lamp is freestanding without any adjustable parts.

Its weight of 15.2 pounds ensures stability, but it might be cumbersome to move around frequently. The lamp is corded electric, which means it needs a nearby power outlet. The satin finish and refined rustic design make it a visually appealing addition to a bedroom, living room, or office. The lamp is not water-resistant and does not come with a warranty. It is a good option for those who value aesthetics and a stable light source for indoor reading but might not suit those looking for adjustable or portable lighting solutions.

Rating
9.7
Color Temperature
Size and Design

Most important from
821 reviews

Color Temperature
The lamp offers flexibility with color-changing bulbs, allowing you to get the lighting just right.
Size and Design
The design is gorgeous, with quality you can feel in the materials and craftsmanship.

Buying Guide for the Best Reading Lamps

Choosing the right reading lamp can significantly enhance your reading experience by providing adequate lighting and reducing eye strain. When selecting a reading lamp, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. Here are some key specs to look out for and how to navigate them.
BrightnessBrightness is the amount of light emitted by the lamp, usually measured in lumens. This spec is important because it determines how well you can see the text on the page. For reading, a lamp with a brightness level between 400 to 600 lumens is generally sufficient. If you prefer a brighter light, you can go for higher lumens, but make sure it doesn't cause glare or discomfort. Consider your reading environment and personal preference when choosing the brightness level.
Color TemperatureColor temperature is measured in Kelvin (K) and indicates the color of the light emitted by the lamp. This spec is important because it affects the ambiance and comfort of your reading space. Lamps with a color temperature of 2700K to 3000K emit a warm, yellowish light that is relaxing and cozy, ideal for evening reading. Lamps with a color temperature of 4000K to 5000K emit a cool, white light that is more energizing and suitable for daytime reading or tasks requiring focus. Choose a color temperature that matches your reading habits and the time of day you usually read.
AdjustabilityAdjustability refers to the lamp's ability to be positioned and directed as needed. This spec is important because it allows you to customize the lighting angle and height to reduce shadows and glare. Adjustable lamps can have features like flexible necks, swivel heads, or extendable arms. If you read in different positions or locations, an adjustable lamp can provide the versatility you need. Consider how you typically read and whether you need a lamp that can be easily adjusted to suit your reading posture.
Power SourceThe power source of a reading lamp can be either plug-in, battery-operated, or rechargeable. This spec is important because it affects the lamp's portability and convenience. Plug-in lamps are suitable for stationary use near an outlet, while battery-operated or rechargeable lamps offer more flexibility and can be used in various locations without needing a power outlet. If you need a lamp for travel or to use in different rooms, a battery-operated or rechargeable option might be more suitable. Consider where and how you plan to use the lamp when choosing the power source.
Size and DesignThe size and design of a reading lamp can impact its functionality and aesthetic appeal. This spec is important because it determines how well the lamp fits into your reading space and complements your decor. Compact lamps are ideal for small spaces or bedside tables, while larger lamps can provide more coverage and are suitable for desks or living rooms. The design can range from modern and sleek to classic and ornate. Choose a size and design that fits your space and personal style, ensuring it enhances your reading environment without being obtrusive.
Light Source TypeThe light source type refers to the kind of bulb used in the lamp, such as LED, incandescent, or fluorescent. This spec is important because it affects the lamp's energy efficiency, lifespan, and light quality. LED bulbs are the most energy-efficient and long-lasting, making them a popular choice for reading lamps. Incandescent bulbs provide a warm light but consume more energy and have a shorter lifespan. Fluorescent bulbs are energy-efficient but can sometimes produce a harsher light. Consider the pros and cons of each light source type and choose one that meets your preferences for energy use, light quality, and maintenance.

FAQ