Choosing a new lamp seems straightforward until you realise that the bulb is not included, the fitting is incompatible or the lamp does not provide enough light in practice. Terms such as “energy-efficient”, “smart” and “dimmable” are only meaningful when you check the technical specifications.
This guide helps you compare lamps by intended use, light colour, fitting, size, dimmability and safety. That way, you can find the right table lamp, desk lamp, floor lamp, LED lamp, bedside lamp or outdoor light for your home.
With many light fittings, you still need to buy a bulb yourself. So check:
An E27 bulb is a popular choice for table lamps and floor lamps. However, a compatible fitting does not automatically mean that the brightness or light colour will be suitable.
A dimmable lamp may have a built-in dimming function, but with a fitting that uses a separate bulb, the LED bulb you choose must also be dimmable. Also check whether it is operated via a cord switch, push button, touch control, remote control or app.
With smart lighting, it is worth checking which app is required, whether a Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connection is needed, and whether it is compatible with your smartphone or smart home platform.
A 180 cm floor lamp needs enough space and must stand securely. A clip-on lamp must fit firmly onto the edge of a desk or shelf. For a lamp in the bathroom, on the balcony or in the garden, the IP rating is important.
An IP rating does not automatically make a lamp suitable for all weather conditions. Always follow the manufacturer’s safety instructions.
Brightness is usually expressed in lumens (lm). A bedside lamp generally needs far fewer lumens than a desk lamp or reading lamp. Focused lighting is important for a workspace, while indirect or diffuse light can be more pleasant in a living room.
Colour temperature is measured in kelvin (K):
Also check the CRI value when accurate colour rendering is important. A higher value can be useful for reading, drawing or detailed work. Base your choice on the stated product specification, rather than on a marketing name alone.
For a fitting with a separate light source, check the fitting type and maximum wattage. For example, a Brilliant clip-on lamp uses an E27 fitting and is suitable for a maximum of 40 W. The LED bulb is not included as standard.
For LED bulbs, consider energy consumption in watts, but compare the lumen output as well. A lower wattage alone does not tell you how much light the lamp produces. The energy label also shows consumption per 1,000 hours. A lamp with an integrated LED often has a fixed light source, so check whether it can be replaced.
For a desk, an adjustable desk lamp or clip-on lamp can save space. A rechargeable lamp is useful when there is no power socket nearby. If the information is available, check the battery capacity, charging time, charging port and operating time.
For outdoor use, a stable surface, splash protection and a safe cable or charging solution are important. A lamp with an IP20 rating should not be used outdoors or in a damp area.
Why it suits this profile: This clip-on lamp is suitable for a desk or shelf where there is little room for a base. It is 70 cm high, and the lamp head and joints are adjustable.
The E27 fitting and maximum power of 40 W are clearly stated. Please note that the light source is not included.
Space-saving clip, adjustable lamp head, push button on the lamp head and a cable measuring approximately 1.6 metres.
Why it suits this profile: This floor lamp combines a height of 179 cm with adjustable colour temperature and dimmability. That makes it suitable for a living room, reading corner or home office.
The product details state 1,300 lumens, 14 W and a range of 3000 to 6500 K. The integrated LED module cannot be replaced, and the lamp has an IP20 rating.
Touch dimmer, adjustable colour temperature, integrated light source and a cable measuring approximately 2.28 metres.
Why it suits this profile: A monitor light is practical for a compact workspace where you do not want to add a separate desk lamp. Check in advance that the clip is suitable for the thickness of your monitor.
The description states that there are ten dimming levels and an asymmetrical light distribution. The lamp works via USB, so check the available port and cable routing.
Positioning above the monitor, USB power and adjustable brightness for different working situations.
Why it suits this profile: This compact rechargeable lamp is designed for flexible placement on a table, balcony or patio. It has an integrated LED light source and works without a fixed power connection while in use.
The specifications mention an integrated 1 W LED, touch dimmer, RGB function and IP44 rating. IP44 provides splash protection; do not immerse the lamp.
Rechargeable battery, RGB lighting, touch control and a compact size of approximately 11.6 cm high.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
A desk lamp with an adjustable lamp head is practical when you need focused light. A clip-on lamp saves space on a small desk. Check the height, reach, fitting, light colour and the position of the switch. For a monitor setup, a monitor light bar can be an alternative.
The operating life varies by product and conditions of use. With a separate E27 bulb, you can replace the light source. With a lamp featuring an integrated LED, the module may not be replaceable. Before buying, check the stated lifespan, warranty terms and information about whether the light source can be replaced.
Use this simple calculation: wattage ÷ 1,000 × number of hours switched on × electricity price. A 10 W lamp switched on for 1,000 hours uses 10 kWh. The actual cost depends on your energy tariff. So compare wattage with the light output in lumens, rather than choosing solely on the basis of a low wattage.