Our best overall pick is the Joss & Main Christa Table Lamp Set, thanks to its clean-cut, adaptable glass design. Here are the best bedside lamps. The Christa Lamp is quite tall, measuring 31-inches from base to the top of the shade, and topped with a white, cotton drum shade. The bedside light comes with one LED bulb and is equipped with a power cord and rocker switch. Our only suggestion is to use the bedroom lamp alongside a headboard—if you don’t have one, the tall height of the lamp may look unbalanced next to your bed. Price at time of publish: $424 The Haitral lamps are 20.5-inches tall and feature a black metal base, topped with a cone-shaped white fabric shade. You can control these lamps via the pull-chain switch, which features a matching black nut at the end. While these lamps are definitely on the smaller side, they’re a good budget option for a spare bedroom or temporary fixture. Price at time of publish: $70 The lamp is available in two colors—white and grey—and is corded, so be sure to set it up near an outlet. Price at time of publish: $40 Each lamp features a clear, crystal base and is topped with a bell-shaped black shade made of a cotton and polyester blend. The luxe set includes two bulbs, a 60-inch cord, and an on/off switch for easy use. If you only need one lamp in your bedroom, consider putting the other in an entryway or living room—regardless, it’s sure to add a touch of Hollywood glam. Price at time of publish: $383 These lamps are 21-inches tall and come in matte black. They sport a curved base for visual interest, and you can actually install two bulbs into the dome, each of which can be controlled via the dual pull chains. This lamp comes with two incandescent LED bulbs and is an unbeatable find for popular dome lamps from high-end furniture brands. These lamps are 25-inches tall with 9-inch tall linen shades that have a subtle cone shape. They include an 8-foot power cord, and you can control them via an on/off switch on the socket. Additionally, these bedside lamps are compatible with light dimmers, allowing you to set the mood in your sleeping area. The lamps are quite versatile as well—if you wanted to make them look more contemporary, we’d recommend swapping out the linen shades for white ones. Price at time of publish: $70 The Miller Ceramic Lamps are made from clay, and they have a white glaze on the top portion, leaving a strip of raw material at the bottom for textural interest. They come with a drum-style shade in an off-white color, and the on-off switch is located on the lamp’s socket. While pricey, these lamps are a worthwhile investment for those who love farmhouse decor, as they’re extremely high-quality and will last for years to come. Their unique rustic design will pair well with distressed bedside tables, and because the colors are neutral, you’ll be able to switch out your bedding without worrying about updating the fixtures. The Bronson Lantern Lamp is on the smaller side at under 19-inches tall, and it features a clear glass shade that allows you to see the bulb inside. The lamp combines a metal base with a curved arm that supports the shade from the top. The brand recommends using a T45 Edison Bulb for a vintage appearance. Price at time of publish: $50 The FADO table lamp is 9-inches tall with a 10-inch diameter, and it has a 6-foot power cord. It comes with an LED bulb that will give off a soft, cozy light in your bedroom. The globe-shaped lamp is stylish and decorative as well—you can even consider installing a color-changing smart bulb to amp up the fun. Price at time of publish: $32 These table lamps are made up of a sculptural T-shaped base and shell-shaped metal shade, and they stand 20-inches tall. The base has a bold brass finish, while the shade is satin black, and the adjustable shade can be tilted vertically to direct the light for reading or other tasks. We love the idea of putting two of these lamps on either side of a mid-century bed, but it would also make a great desk lamp in your office. Price at time of publish: $159
Size
Once you’ve determined the style you’re going for, you should also take note of what size you need—or rather, the size your bedroom can accommodate. If you have a smaller nightstand, you’ll probably need to look for a compact design. If you have more space to work with, consider taller, more decorative styles—just be careful it doesn’t totally overpower your space.
Price
Lamps can range in price, so setting a budget beforehand is key. Luckily, there are tons of options out there to choose from, and you’re sure to find one that fits your needs. If you’re on a budget, consider purchasing a set of lamps—they tend to be a bit more cost-efficient, and you’ll be able to outfit two nightstands.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Camryn Rabideau, a freelance writer who has written for The Spruce since 2017. With a background in interior design, she’s an expert on all things home and has ample experience shopping for decorative accents. Additional reporting was done by Mackenzie Dunn, a writer and editor with expertise in the fashion, beauty, home, and lifestyle spaces. Her work has appeared in Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, HelloGiggles, Real Simple, MyDomaine, and more.
