No Workspace Is Complete Without the Perfect Desk Lamp — Here Are Our 10 Favorites

The best desk lamps aren't merely decorative objects — they help draw your attention to your workspace in a way that overhead lighting just can't. Unlike accent lights or table lamps, the best desk lamps cast a focused beam of light onto your workstation, so you can better see what you're doing. They are not meant to illuminate the surrounding area or create a moody ambiance, though they should ideally be pleasant to look at, even when you're not in work mode.

The Best Desk Lamps

What to Consider

• Size: It may seem obvious, but when choosing a new desk lamp, consider how much space you have on your desk. A desk lamp should illuminate your workspace, not take up a sizable portion of it. Whether that means choosing a lamp with a more slender base, one that clips on to the side of the desk, or one whose base offers outlets or chargers so that the consumed space is put to use, be sure you're not losing your workspace just to light it.
• Adjustability: In this case, adjustability is actually two considerations in one. One consideration is whether or not the lamp allows you to alter the angle of the light, either with an adjustable shade or flexible arm. The other is brightness: Can the light emitted be dimmed or brightened to best suit the user at that time? Obviously, if you're just looking for a quick on/off light for simple tasks, neither of these adjustability factors should be make or break, but if you're planning on using that light a lot, for long stretches of time, having some customizability for your light can be key.
• Extra Functionality: Your desk lamp can be more than just illuminate a space. Some lights offer additional functionality that can really improve a workstation, from charging your phone to offering other electrical outlets, to even sanitizing your space and fighting harmful bacteria. Thinking about extra functionalities your lamp can offer can help you get the most out of your workspace.

There are countless types of desk lamps out there, so we've done the research and honed in on 10 different, top-rated models that can help showcase your workspace in its best light. No desk is complete without one!