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Whether you’ve got mountains of revision, work projects to get through at home or you work on the computer some evenings, a decent desk lamp is vital. Indeed, without task lighting, you run the risk of eye strain, headaches and lack of concentration.
When considering which one is best for you, don’t just consider the size and style. Also think about the amount of light the room already has, so that you can work out if you need fuller coverage of the desk or a more specific glow.
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10 best desk lamps Show all 10 10 best desk lamps Original BTC Circle Line Original BTC is a British company renowned for its quality lights which blend materials from bone china and satin chromes to natural cotton and aluminium. This classicaly designed lamp also comes with an eye-catching shade.
From £155, heals.co.uk
10 best desk lamps Habitat Tommy This Habitat classic, updated in yellow, powder-coated metal, is a great for people with several tasks on the go or a dark desk area. Part of the Tommy lamp range, it has a flexible arm and head so you can direct the light where you need it.
£15, habitat.co.uk
10 best desk lamps Argos ColourMatch Available in six colours, you can match this small desk lamp to pretty much any decor. Despite the low price tag, it’s well built and reliable, as well as having good angle flexibility, and it works particularly well in children’s bedrooms.
£5.99, argos.co.uk
10 best desk lamps Garden Trading Bermondsey The wooden bifold arm turns this otherwise retro-looking lamp into a bit of a talking point. The adjustable shade and base are made of powder-coated white steel , with a hint of grey, while the arm is made of raw oak that will age well.
£100, gardentrading.co.uk
10 best desk lamps IKEA Jansjo This cheap and cheerful light comes in a variety of bright colours and is particularly good for people who like directing light with the adjustable arm. It’s nice and bright and the LED light source consumes a lot less energy.
£10, ikea.com
10 best desk lamps British Library Mini Desk Anglepoise Type 75 The classic Anglepoise shape has been recreated to fit into tight spaces, without compromising on any of the functionality of the larger version. Made from brushed aluminium and designed by Sir Kenneth Grange, it looks both classy and compact.
£75, shop.bl.uk
10 best desk lamps John Lewis Frankie Oak Desk Lamp It’s not real oak, but it still gives a great wooden effect for those who like a pared-down look. The flex cable is nice and long, and it works as well on a bedside table as a desk or dressing table.
£60, johnlewis.com
10 best desk lamps John Lewis Erik Table Lamp There’s a similar designer version to this slim and stylish desk lamp that sells for more than £500, but this budget one is still stunning and the flex cable is nice and long, while the light is focused and clear. Great for more minimalist settings.
£35, johnlewis.com
10 best desk lamps Dunelm Mill Cosy Skandi Retro Desk Lamp Spruce up your working space with a cool retro touch. With the curved neck and dome-shaped head, it’s also functional, while the bright yellow colour makes a statement on your desk. It’s easy to keep clean and creates a soft glow.
£17.99, dunelm-mill.com
10 best desk lamps CEP Ecoline Touch Lamp This contemporary and minimalist lamp is great for energy efficiency without compromising on bright illumination. It is simple to use and position and comes with a five-year warranty. There are various colours available.
£39.99, viking-direct.co.uk
Verdict:
The IKEA Jansjo is a bargain for a tenner, while the John Lewis Erik Table Lamp is our favourite when it comes to style.
Buy now
1. Original BTC Circle Line, from £155
2. Habitat Tommy, £50
3. Ikea Jansjo, £10
4. Garden Trading Bermondsey, £100
5. Argos ColourMatch, £5.99
6. British Library Mini Desk Anglepoise Type 75, £75
7. John Lewis Frankie Oak Desk Lamp, £60
8. John Lewis Erik Table Lamp, £35
9. Dunelm Mill Cosy Skandi Retro Desk Lamp, £17.99
10. CEP Ecoline Touch Lamp
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