Updated on 22 February 2023
This comparison is certified 100% impartial and follows our selection process.
Lepro PR310003-DWW-EU
Offering the best simplicity/functionality/price ratio, this desk lamp is ideal for playing and working. It offers a great brightness with 5 different intensities and 3 different colour levels.
This 2022 version proved to be more stable thanks to its slightly higher weight than the 2021 version we also tested. Apart from that, there are not many changes. The only thing we noticed is the presence of a USB-A port for charging electronic devices. It lights up in 3 different colours (3000, 4200 and 6500 K). We also liked its 5 intensity levels up to 655 lm. However, the white design did not please the whole team. However, it offers a nice flexibility in terms of light orientation (even if it could be better) and its touch buttons are undeniably very modern and responsive.
There are two types of lamps: 'classic' lamps and LED lamps. We advise you to check the dimensions of the lamp if the space on your desk is limited. Some lamps have an articulating arm to direct the light source according to your needs. Others can only be oriented on one axis (e.g. from bottom to top only). LED lamps sometimes offer adjustable brightness, both in terms of intensity and temperature. Integrated LED bulbs have a longer lifespan but are not replaceable.
Eglo 9228
Very simple, this lamp is quite low and has an E27 base allowing you to opt for a connected bulb. If it does not excel in terms of finishing touches, it remains a good and efficient solution at a very low price.
During our tests, we appreciated this lamp despite its rather cheap finishing touches. Simple but effective, it is quite low and is more suitable for small offices. With its E27 base, you can choose the bulb of your choice (intensity and colour) and even opt for a connected model. However, as its dome is quite small, we found that a longer bulb (as is usually the case with connected bulbs) protrudes from it, dazzling us in the process… So we recommend opting for a classic LED bulb which is (in principle) a bit shorter. Its arm is quite flexible and allowed us to orientate it as we wished. Finally, as its cable is only 1.5m long, it must be placed near a socket or invest in an extension.
Xiaomi Desk Lamp Pro
Adjustable via a single button or with the Mi Home app, this connected lamp is perfectly adjustable. Although larger in size, it is discreet on the desk thanks to its minimalist design.
This top-of-the-range lamp has the advantage of being adjustable via three pivot points (foot, arm and head) in order to adapt to your current needs. The intensity (700 lumens maximum) as well as the temperature of the light (from 2500 to 4800 K) are adjustable, thanks to the single central button or, for the most connected of you, via the Mi Home application or a voice assistant (Apple, Google or Amazon). Although it looks bulky at first glance, it proved to be quite discreet on the desk thanks to its slim lines during our tests. Despite its less affordable price, it is a convincing product.
B.K.Licht BKL1080
With its industrial style, this model reminds us of the famous Pixar lamp. And if it does not move by itself, it can still rely on its 3 moving points to orient itself as you wish.
Sold at a decent price, this lamp was quite easy to assemble during our tests. In fact, all we had to do was place the arm in its base (by pushing it all the way in) and screw in the E14 bulb of our choice. The intensity and colour are therefore adjustable depending on the bulb you choose (and which can be connected). Although the head is not 360° adjustable, we were able to move it from left to right and up and down, offering a nice orientability. In addition, the arm also allows it to be raised and lowered and it swivels on its base. However, we feel that the base could have been a little heavier to give the whole thing more stability.
Xiaomi Mi Light Bar
Supplied with a remote control, this light bar is no ordinary desk lamp as it is intended to be attached to the top of your computer screen, saving space on your desk.
It is the ideal choice if you are looking to equip a work surface with a fixed computer. It does not take up any desk space as it fits directly onto a screen (up to 32mm thick, including curved models), with a 25° rotation system to reduce glare. We were also convinced by its ease of use. Rotating the remote control (round casing) allows you to change the light intensity, while a long press changes the temperature, to best suit your needs. The power is supplied via a USB port.
Our selection
Our choice, Best mid-range Best budegt Best high-end Mid-range alternative High-end alternative Lepro PR310003-DWW-EU Eglo 9228 Xiaomi Desk Lamp Pro B.K.Licht BKL1080 Xiaomi Mi Light Bar Offering the best simplicity/functionality/price ratio, this desk lamp is ideal for playing and working. It offers a great brightness with 5 different intensities and 3 different colour levels. Very simple, this lamp is quite low and has an E27 base allowing you to opt for a connected bulb. If it does not excel in terms of finishing touches, it remains a good and efficient solution at a very low price. Adjustable via a single button or with the Mi Home app, this connected lamp is perfectly adjustable. Although larger in size, it is discreet on the desk thanks to its minimalist design. With its industrial style, this model reminds us of the famous Pixar lamp. And if it does not move by itself, it can still rely on its 3 moving points to orient itself as you wish. Supplied with a remote control, this light bar is no ordinary desk lamp as it is intended to be attached to the top of your computer screen, saving space on your desk. £ 18.99 on Amazon See the price on Amazon £ 64.49 on Amazon See the price on Amazon £ 41.99 on Amazon
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How did we test?
First, we looked into the design and the material quality of the lamps: weight, stability, installation… We then assessed whether they were simple and intuitive to use, with well placed, easy to control and clear buttons. We manipulated the lamps to make the most of their flexibility and to judge the practicality and usefulness of the proposed settings (intensity, colour, etc.).
Of course, we tested each model for several hours to see how bright they were and used them in a variety of conditions (at the computer, for writing, during the day, with less outside light…). Lastly, we paid attention to details that could potentially make a difference, such as the connected use of some models.
How to choose your desk lamp?
Whether in the office or at home, having a practical, high-performance lamp by your side is essential to be efficient at your job and avoid overexertion. However, there are so many models on the market that it can be difficult to choose.
First of all, it is interesting to know what type of lamp you want to use:
- ‘Classic’ lamps: we are referring here to models to which you have to attach a bulb. When the bulb dies, you can simply replace it to continue using your lamp. In order to reduce energy consumption, we advise you to use LED bulbs for this type of model.
- LED lamps: these models have an integrated light source. The advantage of these small LED bulbs is that they have a long lifespan – generally estimated at around 20 years with 3 hours of use per day. However, it is often impossible to replace the bulbs: once they have worn out, you have to replace the whole lamp.
Next, here are some criteria to consider to ensure an experience that meets your needs and expectations:
- Fixing: while the classic desk lamp has a base that you simply place on a piece of furniture, some models are equipped with a clamp that can be fixed anywhere. This saves a lot of space, provided that you check the maximum amplitude allowed by the clamp.
- Flexibility: this is very useful for orienting the light source according to one’s needs. While some lamps have an articulated arm that can be oriented in all directions, others are flexible in sections (at the foot, arm and/or head). Some lamps can also be adjusted in one direction only (e.g. from bottom to top only).
- Adjustments: LED lamps have the advantage of being able to offer adjustable brightness. In most cases, both the intensity and temperature are adjustable. So you can adapt the light to your needs, the time of day or your activities (reading, precision work, computer use, etc.). Some modern models are even connected and can be used via an application or an intelligent assistant.
- Design: most models are quite small, but be sure to check the dimensions of the product of your choice if you have limited space on your desk. Whether it is classic or touch-sensitive buttons, make sure they are ergonomically placed on the lamp.
Other desk lamps we recommend
Ikea Nävlinge (£17.00 upon publication): Ideal for basic use. Very inexpensive, this ultra-compact model is available in 2 colours. During our tests, we found it easy to orientate in the desired direction. Despite its small head, we found that it illuminated well (220 lm) on a precise area. Its round base is quite heavy, which makes it stable. Note also that the bulb can be replaced.
Jakob Maul desk lamp 8230590 (£33.27 upon publication): Good for architects. Higher than most of its competitors, this lamp is to be fixed on the edge of a desk. During our tests, we appreciated its good stability (once correctly fixed) and its great orientability. On the other hand, it is true that it requires a little more assembly at the beginning (fixing its cup and arm in the clamp) and requires a flat screwdriver, which is less practical than the ready-made models. In addition, its cup tends to fall off when the head is turned.
Xiaomi Smart Mi LED Desk Lamp (£52.95 upon publication): a flexible and connected lamp at an attractive price. This is an interesting alternative to our mid-range choice if you are looking for a connected lamp. Adjustable (vertically) and adaptable (intensity, temperature and modes), it is modular and easy to use via a single button. Its quality construction and modern design are also appealing. However, its availability online is rather uncertain.
Other desk lamps we tested
Ikea Ypperlig : No longer sold
Taotronics TT-DL064 : Currently unavailable
Taotronics TT-DL22 : Currently unavailable
Translated by Aylin Akturk
