Does it ever feel like your home lighting situation is one aspect of home decor that’s difficult to get right? With so many varied and funky lighting options available, it can be overwhelming to try to narrow down your choices and find stylish, bright lamps that’ll optimally suit the needs of your particular home. Adding a floor lamp to your living space can greatly help even out any lighting challenges you may experience if you have a room that’s served primarily by harsh overhead lighting, or an odd space that needs a little extra ambiance. In order to help you choose the most ideal floor lamp for your space, we spent hours researching and testing dozens of floor lamps, evaluating functionality, style, bulb types, sturdiness, and overall value. Jessica Zernicke, an interior designer, photographer, educator, and graduate of the Illinois Institute of Art in Chicago, recommends selecting a floor light that will sit at the same height as any tabletop lamps you may have in the room in order to create balance. Whether you’re searching for a floor lamp that’s classic, understated, versatile, eye-catching, or budget-friendly, there’s an option that will work well with many different rooms and decors available. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Best Splurge: Pottery Barn Harrison Shelf Floor Lamp at PBteen ($299) Best Farmhouse Style: Birch Lane Theodora Swing Arm Floor Lamp at Birchlane.com (See Price) Best for Open Spaces: Urban Outfitters XL Globe Floor Lamp at Urban Outfitters ($229) Best for Small Spaces: Best Tripod: Best Smart Floor Lamp: Best Adjustable Lamp: In This Article Our Picks What to Look For Standout Features FAQ Why Trust The Spruce Brightech's Carter Floor Lamp Offers Big Bang for Your Buck What We Like Smart home compatible Impressive three-year warranty Affordable and durable Suits small and large rooms What We Don't Like Initial setup can be frustrating Lamp hardware visible beneath the shade The Brightech Carter LED Floor Lamp is tough to beat in terms of overall design, functionality, understated elegance, and affordability. It effortlessly combines elements of both modern industrial and mid-century retro style to offer a classic and ambient touch to a wide variety of rooms. With a sturdy metal base and slim, walnut-finished design, this lamp fits well in smaller areas but provides a shade large enough to give ample light for larger needs. This lamp just seems to work, no matter your space or style. This lamp stands 65 inches tall and comes with an energy-saving and ultra-long-lasting LED bulb for added efficiency. Assembly is fairly straightforward and quick, although positioning the lampshade can be a bit tricky for some. The shade comes folded in order to fit in a compact box for shipping, so you’ll want to use caution when unraveling it and attaching it to the lamp. While certainly not “cheap,” this lamp is more affordable than many. It also comes backed by an impressive three-year warranty. This American-owned and -operated family business prides itself on providing stellar customer support. Did we mention it’s also smart home compatible? One drawback is that you can see the hardware beneath the shade, which detracts somewhat from the lamp’s seamless and clean design–but it’s definitely not a dealbreaker. Dimensions: 19 x 19 x 65 inches | Wattage: 9.5 watts | Bulb Type: LED | Material: Walnut, Linen | Power Source: Corded What We Like Highly affordable price point Versatile and minimalistic styling Adjustable arm What We Don't Like Won’t illuminate a large area Base isn’t very heavy or sturdy Simple and unimposing, the Catalina Modern Adjustable Metal Floor Lamp is an ideal option for almost any home. Its ultra-compact design blends into even the tiniest of spaces, casting a comfortable and bright light ideal for reading. It has a functional and adjustable articulating arm that lets you aim light exactly where you need it. Since the arm is also height adjustable, it can pull double-duty as a useful task light throughout the day, making it a great choice for your work-from-home space. With an antique flair, the black and brass floor lamp is also uber-affordable, so it’s great for those who are on a budget or don’t want to drop an entire paycheck on in-home lighting. Use it in your living room, home office, bedroom, or family room. This lamp comes in basic black, but it would be great if it were offered in a couple of other finish options. The base is also quite lightweight, so it may not be the best for homes with curious pets or children, unless it’s placed out of reach, such as behind a piece of furniture. Dimensions: 10 x 22.25 x 54.5 inches | Wattage: 100 watts | Bulb Type: 60 watt incandescent or LED equivalent (not included) | Material: Metal | Power Source: Corded View On PBteen$299 What We Like Includes shelving and storage space Features convenient USB ports Versatile and functional styling What We Don't Like Expensive Takes up significant space The Harrison Shelf Floor Lamp offered by Pottery Barn may have been designed with teens in mind, but it’s a hit with adults, as well. This sophisticated and highly functional floor lamp is a top choice for those who need extra shelf space as well as a stylish lighting option. It’s expensive, but it goes above and beyond in convenience and versatility, making it a worthwhile splurge. The lamp is offered in elegant white and gold or a sleek black color, giving you options for matching your existing themes. We also like that it includes two USB charging ports for easy charging of your smartphone or other tech devices. This lamp does a great job doubling as a nightstand in bedrooms where space is at a premium. It’s also classy enough to fit well in your living room or family room. It takes up more space than the standard floor lamp, but the additional shelving is great for displaying and storing items. The one drawback to this versatile floor lamp has to be its hefty price tag but it’s a price in line with its style, functionality, and ability to double as a lamp and a piece of furniture. Dimensions: 12.5 x 12.5 x 62.25 inches | Wattage: 9 watts | Bulb Type: LED | Material: Fiberboard, Linen and cotton shade | Power Source: Corded What We Like Affordable Compact, space-saving design Available in two different finishes Adjustable arm What We Don't Like Heavy and cumbersome to maneuver Assembly can be frustrating If you’ve got a small living room, or a spot where space is limited, the Adesso Bowery Arc Lamp is the ideal solution. This lamp is a space-saving statement piece that’s eye-catching in large spaces but slim enough for smaller rooms, with several options for customization. It’s available in two classy finishes, and you can even choose from a traditional single-arm design or a brighter and bigger three-arm design. Whether you go with the satin steel or antique bronze finish, this lamp is a highly functional and decorative option. The solid marble base works to stabilize and balance the lamp, but it’s also a tasteful touch that you won’t feel you need to hide under a piece of furniture. We also like the affordability of this lamp and the fact you can purchase a matching table lamp to complete your space. It’s also compatible with your home’s smart outlets. One detail that’s not so great is the assembly process of this somewhat cumbersome lighting choice. It’s also pretty painful if you stub your toe on that solid marble base. These are minor details, though, and they definitely don’t detract from the floor lamp’s overall appeal and appearance. Dimensions: 48 x 77 inches | Wattage: 100 watts | Bulb Type: Incandescent or LED (not included) | Material: Metal and linen | Power Source: Corded The Best Arc Lamps for Statement-Making Lighting in Any Room What We Like Visually appealing design Available in different color and size options Features a three-way rotary switch What We Don't Like No warranty Base isn’t very solid or sturdy If you’re looking for a more eclectic and antique-style lamp that still offers a modern feel and features, check out the Theodora Swing Arm Floor Lamp. It adds a touch of rustic-chic to any room, and the easy-to-position arm makes it a great option for a reading nook, home office, or even a bedroom—anywhere you need to easily or frequently adjust the angle of light. The burlap shade and antique bronze finish bring a touch of cozy farmhouse vibe to your room without being too gaudy or old-fashioned. If that’s not the feel you’re going for, not to worry; you can also choose the antique pewter finish with a classic white shade. For added customization, you can even choose the size from options like a 60-inch lamp with a 29-inch swing arm diameter or a 61-inch height with a 38.5-inch diameter. The three-way rotary switch lets you customize the amount of light you want, too. One thing to note about this particular floor lamp is that the base doesn’t seem to be as stable or sturdy as some other choices. It’s also not backed by any warranty at all. However, when it comes to style, it’s a standout. Dimensions: 38.5 x 17 x 60 inches or 29 x 17 x 61 inches | Wattage: 150 watts | Bulb Type: Incandescent or LED (not included) | Material: Metal, burlap shade | Power Source: Corded What We Like Very visually appealing and interesting Emits a calming, cozy light Easy to clean and maintain What We Don't Like May not push light high enough for some rooms Not the most functional or practical If you’re looking for a truly unique statement piece to fill up a good amount of empty space, consider the Urban Outfitters XL Globe Floor Lamp. This fun and whimsical take on the traditional floor lamp will definitely have your guests commenting. It emits a soft, calming, and cozy light that welcomes everyone to sit down and relax. While it’s a good choice for reading and relaxing, it might not be tall enough for many people’s needs. This globe-shaped lamp adds a distinctly modern touch to any room and is made from mostly acrylic, so it’s super lightweight, easy to set up, and easy to maintain. Weighing only 4.5 pounds, you can put this lamp anywhere you can find the room. While it loses some points in the practicality and functionality department, it’s hard to argue with its visual appeal and fun feel. Dimensions: 20 x 18.8 inches | Wattage: 100 watts | Bulb Type: Incandescent (not included) | Material: 90 percent acrylic, 10 percent “other” | Power Source: Corded What We Like Sleek, minimalistic design Blends easily with any decor Compatible with energy-efficient bulbs Affordable What We Don't Like Exposed bulb can cast a harsh glow The Article Beacon Floor Lamp is the ultimate in space-saving, sleek design. This Scandinavian-style fixture features an exposed bulb and a curved metal stand that’s available in two finishes, brushed brass or gunmetal gray. The industrial design is the ultimate in minimalistic styling and blends easily and inconspicuously into even the tightest of spaces. Assembly is also super-quick and easy and can be accomplished in as little as five minutes. This lamp is also a great option for the budget-conscious consumer. It’s highly affordable and compatible with a wide range of LED bulbs, giving you some good options for customizing this somewhat lackluster lamp. Because it lacks a shade, the light it casts can have a tendency to be a little too glaring or not as soft as a lot of other options, so consider a warmer light bulb that won’t cast harsh shadows around your room. Dimensions: 10.5 x 9 x 61 inches | Wattage: 4 watts | Bulb Type: LED | Material: Steel and plastic | Power Source: Corded What We Like Constructed from durable, lightweight rubberwood Super affordable Classic textured linen shade Convenient foot switch What We Don't Like Foot switch needs to be easily accessible Assembly can be time-consuming Tripod lamps like the LePower Wood Tripod Floor Lamp are tasteful and stable choices, especially for people with curious kids or active pets. The rubberwood construction of this particular model warms up a space, even when the light isn’t turned on. The textured linen shade is functional, durable, and muted enough to blend easily with most room themes and color palettes. It’s also a super-affordable choice that won’t be painful on your pocketbook. Modeled after popular mid-century modern designs, this lamp is subtle enough to blend well with industrial or even rustic decor styles. Placement options are a bit limited, however, since you have to leave easy access for the foot switch. Assembly is required, and it can be a bit time-consuming and awkward if you’re planning on tackling it alone. It’s also only covered by a limited 90-day warranty. However, if you’re looking for style on a budget, this floor lamp delivers. Dimensions: 19 x 19 x 61 inches | Wattage: 60 watts | Bulb Type: Incandescent or LED (not included) | Material: Wood and linen | Power Source: Corded What We Like Artistic, unique design Creates a dynamic light effect Budget-friendly smart lamp What We Don't Like May be too modern for some homes Cannot get replacement bulbs for it The IKEA Pilskott LED Floor Lamp is the pinnacle of modern, state-of-the-art lighting for your home. Use it in your living room, home office, bedroom, dining room, or family room to make an artistic statement that doubles as an ambient lighting choice. Because it’s a smart lamp, you can control it wirelessly, easily adapting the lighting based on your activities or moods. This LED light is energy-saving and long-lasting, which is good, since you cannot get replacement lights for this unit. This is a surprisingly affordable choice that will definitely get noticed by your guests. While this may be a little too modern and “out there” for some homes, it’s still a distinctive and tasteful piece that can blend with many different styles and themes. Assembly is a breeze, as is the operation of the lamp itself. Dimensions: 12 x 5 x 44 inches | Wattage: Not listed | Bulb Type: LED | Material: Concrete, aluminum, and plastic | Power Source: Corded What We Like Clean, tasteful design Adjustable height and arm Melds modern and classic elements for versatility What We Don't Like Won’t illuminate the entire room Foot switch can be tough to reach in tight spaces The Mercury Row Breesha Task Floor Lamp is an understated and refined task lamp that provides a purposefully direct light ideal for working, reading, and doing puzzles and crafts. The adjustable height and adjustable arm really let you customize your lighting experience and change it as needed. The clean design melds both modern and classic elements to give this lamp a versatile and multifunctional purpose and feel. Constructed from durable and lightweight steel, this lamp can be placed in a vast array of places to provide a valuable light source. However, its focused beam is not a good choice for those who are looking to illuminate larger spaces. It’s available in two color accents, either brushed nickel or brass, giving you the opportunity to have it blend with your existing home decor. The foot switch can be convenient, but you’ll need to keep it in an easy-to-reach location to take advantage of it. Dimensions: 32 x 10 x 65 inches | Wattage: 100 watts | Bulb Type: Incandescent or LED (not included) | Material: Steel | Power Source: Corded What We Like Highly affordable Two color options Directable, adjustable light beam What We Don't Like Brass accents can look a little “chintzy” Lamp is not height adjustable The IKEA Ranarp Floor/Reading Lamp is a timeless, tasteful design that is reminiscent of the past, but it offers energy efficiency and futuristic functionality. Constructed from lightweight steel, this lamp is a strong, long-lasting, super-budget-friendly choice. Available in either white or black, it goes well in almost any home. Both the arm and the shade are fully adjustable so that you can aim light where you need it the most. It would be nice if you could also adjust the height of the lamp, but for this price, it’s hardly a dealbreaker. The brass finishes provide nice visual appeal, but do look a little cheap upon close inspection. While this won’t illuminate an entire room (that’s not really the point of a task lamp), you can choose to install an opal light bulb and an ordinary lamp shade to create a more even, diffuse distribution of light. This is an ideal choice for use in any home office, reading nook, or craft room. It also includes the LED lightbulb in your purchase, adding even more to its great value. Dimensions: 30 x 11 x 60 inches | Wattage: Not listed | Bulb Type: LED | Material: Steel | Power Source: Corded Final Verdict When it comes to the best floor lamps, in terms of functionality, visual appeal, and affordability, our top pick overall is, hands down, the Brightech Carter LED Floor Lamp. It’s a classically designed option that’s compatible with your smart home and is backed by a solid three-year warranty. If you want a more budget-friendly choice, consider the Catalina Modern Adjustable Metal Floor Lamp. Its understated and minimalistic design blends seamlessly with most existing home decors, and it can fit in some of the tightest spaces, making it one of the more versatile options on our list. When shopping for the ideal floor lamp for your home, there are literally thousands of options on the market. To ensure that you’re getting the one that best suits your needs and style, there are several factors to take into account: The type of lamp you choose can depend on the purpose of the lamp and its overall functionality. Ambient Floor Lamps: These are the most common type of floor lamp and provide a general, inviting light for a room without concern about the direction or focus of the light itself. These are often arc or swing-arm lamps. Reading/Task Lamps: This lamp style provides a directed and focused light that's specifically meant to illuminate a desk, work table, or reading nook. Uplight Floor Lamps: As the name implies, these lamps direct light upwards to be softly and diffusely reflected off the ceiling in order to help a room feel larger and more inviting. These are typically torchiere, tripod, or club lamps. Consider your space and the purpose of the lamp. You don’t want to choose a floor lamp that is too large and overpowering for a small space, and likewise, you want to avoid those that are too small or underpowered to deliver the proper ambiance and illumination to a larger room. Zernicke recommends going with a height of 67 to 69 inches if you want to avoid being blinded by the bulb while sitting or standing near a floor lamp. Generally speaking, the brighter the light, the more shadows it can cast, depending on the lampshade you use. If you’re doing a lot of work or want to be able to see well in your dining room, home office, or game room, brighter and cooler lights like the kind you get from LED, fluorescent, and halogen bulbs are fine. However, if you’re going for a more calming, welcoming, and soothing vibe, warm LED or incandescent bulbs are the way to go. For optimal ambiance, a bulb with a wattage rating between 60 and 100 is usually ideal. You may also want to consider purchasing a floor lamp with an adjustable switch or dimmer that allows you to control the brightness of the lamp, as that will increase its versatility and make it convenient to use for multiple purposes. Most floor lamps are made from durable steel, metal, or wood. Floor lamps are often considered a statement piece, and they need to be sturdy and strong, so materials like plastic are usually avoided. When it comes to the lampshade, however, that’s where you can really diversify the material factor. Jessica notes that cotton or linen shades allow for the greatest amount of light to get through. Metal shades and clear glass shades allow for a stronger, harsher light. Selecting the right lampshade to go with your floor lamp is vital when it comes to pulling off a polished, uniform, and tasteful look. In general, if you have a floor lamp with a sleek, straight-line stem, select a square-shaped shade. Conversely, if your lamp has a more rounded or curvy design, go with a round shade. The wider the shade, the more light will be allowed through. So, for larger rooms, larger shades are best. For smaller spaces and work rooms, consider a more compact shade. The type of light bulb you choose can greatly affect how energy-efficient your floor lamp is. While a little more expensive initially, LED and CFL (compact fluorescent lights) are the longest-lasting and the most energy-efficient. The drawback is that they can emit a harsher or sharper light. Incandescent bulbs are inexpensive and highly compatible, and they cast a warm glow, but they lack the brightness and longevity of LED light bulbs. Another feature to consider is the type of switch your floor lamp comes with. Most have rotary switches or pull cords set within easy reach, at or near the height of the lampshade. These can be either a single setting or some can be a two- or three-way dimmer setting that allows you to control the strength of the light from the switch. Some floor lamps come with foot switches that you have to tap with your toe in order to turn the light on. That can be a great option for hands-free light activation, but you have to be sure to position the switch in an easy-to-reach location that’s not trapped behind a large piece of furniture. Some floor lamps are also touch-activated, or you can opt for a smart lamp that can be controlled by an app on your phone or by your smart home hub. FAQ What type of floor lamp gives the most light? The amount of light your floor lamp gives will be dependent on the overall size of the lamp and its shade, as well as the strength of the lightbulb. In general, floor lamps with a torchiere or club design tend to give the most light, since they direct light upwards to be reflected off the ceiling. Floor lamps with multiple bulbs also provide a lot of light. Where is the best place to put a floor lamp? The best place to set a floor lamp depends on your intended purpose for the lamp as well as the layout of the room it will be in. Obviously, if you’re using a floor lamp for work or reading, you’ll want to place it close to the chair, table, or desk you’ll be working at. For ambient lighting that’s designed to illuminate a whole room, be sure to be conscious of the cord and other tripping hazards. For this reason, floor lamps are usually placed in a corner or behind furniture. However, you’ll need to take balance and the other light sources in the room into consideration. You’re not going to set your floor lamp directly beside a table lamp or directly below a set of canned or overhead lights. How many lumens should a floor lamp be? Floor lamps that are intended for reading should offer at least 500 lumens. If you’re looking for a floor lamp to light up an entire room, the general rule is to aim for 100 lumens per square meter of space. So, if your living room is 20 square meters (about 215 square feet), you’ll want a lamp that produces 2,000 lumens. For a smaller, cozier atmosphere, an ambient light that offers less than 400 lumens is usually ideal. What is the best height for a floor lamp? The ideal height for most floor lamps is usually between 60 and 67 inches. If you want a light next to a chair or sofa to provide a good setting for reading, the bottom of the shade should be around eye level when you’re seated. If you want a larger amount of light to brighten an entire room, a taller height, closer to 69 inches, will ensure that you and your family or guests won't be blinded by the light bulb when standing close to your floor lamp. This article was written by Lisa Conant, a freelance writer who covers home and lifestyle topics. For this piece, she sought insight from an interior designer and photographer, and pored over dozens of product reviews from online sources and independent consumers. She put high-quality construction, functionality, versatility, and user-friendly features at the top of the list. Our Experts: Create a Cozy Ambiance With These IKEA Lighting Pieces—All Under $100Best Overall
Brightech Carter LED Floor Lamp
Best Budget
Catalina Modern Adjustable Metal Floor Lamp
Best Splurge
Pottery Barn Harrison Shelf Floor Lamp
What to Look for in a Floor Lamp
Lamp Type
Height and Overall Size
Brightness
Material
Standout Features
Shade Type
Bulb Type
Switch Type
Why Trust The Spruce?
FAQs
What type of floor lamp gives the most light? ›
The best kind of light for a dark room, such as those with few or no windows, is an LED — they're not just energy efficient, but they can produce much brighter light than incandescent bulbs.
What lamps are in style now? ›Plaster and white gesso chandeliers and sconces also are popular. Glossy black shades are hot, too, and change the look of a lamp in an instant. Our editors also spotted fun textures such as eggshell, as well as light fixtures made with gemstones like selenite, at recent design markets.
How much should I spend on a floor lamp? ›The amount to spend on a floor lamp varies based on personal budget and requirements. You can find good lamps for under $100, but spending $100-$500 can give you better quality, design, and durability.
What is the best floor lamp to replace overhead light? ›Arc Lamp. Arc lamps are one of the best ways to light a living room with no overhead lighting while directing the light where you need it. There are many kinds of floor lamps, but an arc lamp really sets a mood, especially if you're a mid-century modern buff.
Which lamp glows the brightest? ›The lamp which will have the lowest resistance ,will get the most current due to this it will glow the brightest.
Which lamp is the brightest? ›The bulb which has greater power ratings will glow brighter. That's why a 100W bulb glows brighter than a 60W bulb.
What is the lighting style in 2024? ›In 2024, we expect to see a shift away from statement pieces, and a focus on accent lighting that is designed to highlight elements within a space, to highlight the decorative features of a space, rather than act as the decorative piece. Simple wall lighting is a great example.
What are the lighting trends for 2024? ›I expect nature-inspired, artistic, colorful, and customizable lighting with smart technology integration to be trendy for 2024. Sustainable materials and energy efficiency will also be key focuses.
What is the indoor lighting in 2024? ›In 2024, brass and black metal lighting fixtures have become a must-have trend for adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to your interior. Brass, with its warm golden finish, brings a sense of luxury and glamour, while black metal offers a modern aesthetic.
How do I find the perfect floor lamp? ›- Where do you want your floor lamp to send the light?
- What size floor lamp should I get?
- What type of lampshade will work best for your floor lamp?
- What is the best bulb for your floor lamp?
- What features are important in a floor lamp?
What makes a lamp look expensive? ›
Choosing high-quality fixtures with elegant design elements and finishes such as brass, gold, or chrome, help to elevate the look of a space by becoming a statement piece in the room.
How do I choose a floor lamp? ›- Assess Your Lighting Needs: ...
- Consider Your Room's Style: ...
- Determine the Size and Height: ...
- Evaluate Lighting Control Options: ...
- Coordinate with Existing Lighting: ...
- Experiment with Placement: ...
- Conclusion:
- 1st Dibs. 1st Dibs. Whether you're looking for a statement piece (such as this Ultrafragola mirror designed by Ettore Sottsass) or a subtle sconce, 1st Dibs is sure to carry one-of-a-kind lighting. ...
- Tom Dixon. Tom Dixon. ...
- West Elm. West Elm. ...
- Artemest. Artemest. ...
- Lumens. Lumens. ...
- 2Modern. 2modern. ...
- OKA. OKA. ...
- ABASK. Abask.
When comparing halogen, fluorescent, and incandescent light bulbs in terms of efficiency, fluorescent bulbs are generally the most efficient, followed by halogen bulbs and then incandescent bulbs.
What is the best floor lamp for a dark room? ›The best kind of light for a dark room, such as those with few or no windows, is an LED – they're not just energy-efficient, but they can produce much brighter light than incandescent bulbs.
Do floor lamps light up entire room? ›Floor lamps offer great flexibility for lighting rooms. They seamlessly offer all three layers of lighting: Ambient Lighting – This is the main level of light that lights the entire room.
Do white lamp shades give more light? ›White shades are best at lighting an entire room, while darker tones tend to funnel the light and make a more dramatic statement.
How many lumens should a floor lamp be? ›How many lumens should my floor lamp have? The brightness required of light depends on the purpose of the luminaire. If you use it as a reading lamp, we recommend at least 500 lumens. If your floor lamp shall supply you with room light, you can follow the general rule of 100 lumens per square meter.