What is a table lamp?

A table lamp is any lamp designed to sit on a table, shelf, desk, console or similar surface. It consists of a base, a post or stem, and a shade, and it is powered by either mains electricity or a rechargeable battery.

How tall should a bedside table lamp be?

Aim for 24–30 inches from the base to the lower edge of the shade. Sitting up against the pillows, the bottom of the shade should sit near shoulder height so the bulb stays screened from your eyes.

What size lamp fits a small desk or shelf?

For a compact space, choose a lamp between 14–20 inches tall with a small footprint. A lamp under 12 inches wide leaves room for other items on the surface.

Are table lamps dimmable?

Some are, and some are not. Check the product page for the light output and control type — touch control, button, inline switch, or remote.

The collection

Table Lamps

Table lamps with bases and shades designed to sit on bedside tables, consoles, shelves and living room side tables. Browse styles in ceramic, glass, resin and decorative finishes — from understated linen-shade designs to sculptural decorative bases — with USB-powered, mains plug-in and cordless rechargeable options. All orders ship free with tracking to US addresses.

What size table lamp do I need?

The right lamp height depends on the surface it sits on and how you will use it. For a bedside table, aim for 24–30 inches tall from base to the lower edge of the shade, so when sitting against the pillows the bulb stays screened from your eyes. On a desk or shelf, a smaller lamp between 14–20 inches works well where the surface already has good sightlines. Check the listed dimensions on the product page to confirm the lamp suits your space, and consider the base width — a stable wide base is easier to live with than a tall slender one.

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Common questions

What is a table lamp?: A table lamp is any lamp designed to sit on a table, shelf, desk, console or similar surface. It consists of a base, a post or stem, and a shade, and it is powered by either mains electricity or a rechargeable battery.
How tall should a bedside table lamp be?: Aim for 24–30 inches from the base to the lower edge of the shade. Sitting up against the pillows, the bottom of the shade should sit near shoulder height so the bulb stays screened from your eyes.
What size lamp fits a small desk or shelf?: For a compact space, choose a lamp between 14–20 inches tall with a small footprint. A lamp under 12 inches wide leaves room for other items on the surface.
Are table lamps dimmable?: Some are, and some are not. Check the product page for the light output and control type — touch control, button, inline switch, or remote.