To find the best floor lamps on the market, we researched a variety of options and narrowed down the list based on size, style, features, and value. We also spoke with Andrew Orange, an interior designer and light specialist at Quick & Easy Lighting, for expert advice on what to look for when shopping for a floor lamp. A high-quality floor lamp should “contribute to the design aesthetic of a space,” says Orange. And, of course, it should provide ample light to the room. “Its primary purpose is to push light up and into a space from a mid-height position,” Orange explains. Our top pick is the Brightech Montage Modern Floor Lamp for its sleek design that will look great in nearly any space. We also like that it comes in four different colors and is compatible with smart outlets. Keep reading to discover the best floor lamps. Who it isn’t for: People who want a lamp with multiple lights. For an attractive, sturdy, and reliable lamp that will undoubtedly upgrade any space in your home, opt for the Brightech Montage Modern Floor Lamp. The sleek, classic design is available in four finishes: antique brass, black, rose gold, and satin nickel. Price at time of publish: $100
Dimensions: 14.75 x 60 inchesWattage: 100 watts Material: Metal, fabricFeatures: Smart home compatible
Who it isn’t for: People who want a sleek, modern floor lamp. If you’re determined to find effective lighting on a budget, this double-light floor lamp from Simple Designs won’t break the bank. The lamp features an independent, adjustable arm you can angle as you work or read, as well as a three-way switch that allows you to change the brightness between low, medium, and high. The lamp comes in black, brushed nickel, silver, and white—though each color uses the traditional white plastic shades. Keep in mind that this lamp doesn’t boast any special features, and you’ll have to buy the bulbs separately (including a three-way bulb for the main floor lamp). But if you want a basic, inexpensive light, you can’t go wrong with this pick. Price at time of publish: $50
Dimensions: 4 x 6 x 71 inchesWattage: 100 watts (main), 60 watts (reading)Material: Plastic, metalFeatures: Three-way switch, adjustable arm
Who it isn’t for: People who want a floor lamp that’s easy to set up. Arc lamps are ideal for those who want unique, stylish lighting solutions for reading or working. This option from Adesso features a gorgeous thin frame, white marble base, and light gray fabric shade. You can control the bright overhead lighting with its height adjustable shade and on/off rotary switch placed directly on the pole. Unfortunately, bulbs are not included, so you’ll need to buy them separately. Installing the lamp can take a bit of extra effort, but overall it’s an attractive, well-designed option that will look great in any space. Price at time of publish: $213
Dimensions: 48 x 77 inches Wattage: 100 wattsMaterial: Metal, linenFeatures: Smart home compatible, adjustable
Who it isn’t for: People who want a floor lamp with special features. Tripod floor lamps can be an eye-catching addition to any living space, and we’re particularly fond of this stylish option from Project 62. The sleek, elegant design features three brass posts for legs and a classic white cotton drum shade. The minimalist design can go with any decor or style preferences, and the neutral colors complement most living room furniture. This lamp has a handy three-way light setting so you can control the brightness of the LED bulb (which you can add to your purchase for a few extra dollars) and you can turn the lamp on and off with the simple rotary knob. Unlike some other floor lamps, this one isn’t smart home compatible and doesn’t have many bonus features. But it’s still a lovely, easy-to-assemble tripod lamp that will provide plenty of warm light. Price at time of publish: $100
Dimensions: 17.5 x 16 x 60 inchesWattage: 150 wattsMaterial: IronFeatures: None
Who it isn’t for: People who want a super bright floor lamp. For those who can’t get enough of mid-century modern decor, check out the Eagleton Task Floor Lamp. This simple option has a sleek silhouette and clean lines, and it’s entirely made with jet-black metal. The long arm of the lamp is also angled, making it ideal for reading and working. Although this lamp doesn’t have any smart features, you can operate it with the on/off foot switch on the attached cord. You will have to buy the light bulb separately, and keep in mind that with a 40-watt maximum, it won’t be the brightest compared to others on the market. But if you simply want an attractive, modern floor lamp to add a bit of brightness to your home, you’ll be glad you opted for this stylish item. Price at time of publish: $224
Dimensions: 43 x 12 x 66.5 inchesWattage: 40 wattsMaterial: MetalFeatures: None
Who it isn’t for: People who want a lamp to brighten their entire space. Love curling up on the couch with a good book? Then you’ll want a floor lamp specifically designed for reading, like this solid option from Flemings. In addition to its sleek, modern design with retro-fitted lines that make it stand out, this lamp has an adjustable swing arm and cylindrical shade that will help aim the light directly onto your book as you read. This floor lamp is metal and comes in a black base option with a gold shade or a completely brushed steel finish. It features an LED light that you can control the brightness of by using the touch switch attached to the lamp. The height of the lamp is adjustable, too, so you can change it depending on your particular needs. Take note that it may be too small to brighten up an entire room, but you’ll still enjoy cuddling up with a good book under this reading lamp. Price at time of publish: $194
Dimensions: 22.5 x 6.5 x 63 inchesWattage: 9 wattsMaterial: MetalFeatures: Dimmable
Who it isn’t for: People on a tight budget who need something more affordable. For a gorgeous and eye-catching addition to your home, consider this distinctive wooden floor lamp from Pottery Barn. It features a rubberwood (aka durable hardwood) base and comes in a light, natural wood color as well as a darker walnut finish. The white polyester and cotton shade complements the wood, along with the antique brass accents that add to its unique flair. The floor lamp comes with an LED bulb, so you don’t have to purchase your own unless you want to switch it out for a specific type. The light can be controlled with a switch on the socket. This lamp doesn’t have any special features, which may be a downside for those who expect more from its higher-than-average price. But if aesthetics are your priority, this could be the ideal floor lamp to add to your home. Price at time of publish: $369
Dimensions: 17 x 60 inchesWattage: 9-watt LED bulb included, 100 watts maximumMaterial: Wood, ironFeatures: None
Who it isn’t for: People who prefer a traditionally designed floor lamp. Let’s get it out of the way: This floor lamp from CB2 costs more than any of the others on our list, so if you’re on a budget, this won’t be the option for you. But if money isn’t an issue and your main priority is finding a gorgeous lamp to elevate your space, the Emile Rattan Floor Lamp is an investment piece that won’t let you down. The beautiful and unique lamp is made with a mix of materials: rice paper and rattan palms for the shade and polished brass for the sleek stem. The shade is the standout feature with its beautiful design and petal-like shape. The lamp comes with an LED bulb, but you can switch it out for a regular one with a higher wattage if you choose. It has a foot switch on the clear cord for controlling the power. Because of the delicate nature of the shade, you have to clean this lamp carefully and the color can appear darker over time. Still, there is much to love about this stunning rattan floor lamp. Price at time of publish: $699
Dimensions: 27.5 x 66.5 inchesWattage: 9-watt LED included, 60 watts maximumMaterial: Rattan, brassFeatures: None
Who it isn’t for: People who want a very bright floor lamp with an adjustable stand. If you want a warm, candlelit feeling in your space, opt for the elegant Rosella Metal Torchiere Floor Lamp. It has an off-white, bowl-shaped shade made with hand-blown glass. This lamp comes in two finishes—antique brass and brushed steel—and both neutral colors will look good in any room. Even though there’s a single lampshade, it houses two bulbs. It comes with two 150-watt bulbs, but you can swap them out with LED lights if you prefer. The torchiere floor lamp also features a three-way switch on the socket to control the brightness, and an easy-to-hide, clear cord. The price is a bit above average, but if you want a tall floor lamp that feels like a warm, cozy candle, this one’s for you. Price at time of publish: $259
Dimensions: 11 x 69 inchesWattage: 150 wattsMaterial: Metal, glassFeatures: Three-way switch
Who it isn’t for: People who want a floor lamp with an adjustable lampshade. If you want a floor lamp that stands out, take a look at the Sculptural Glass Globe Lamp from West Elm, which features a glass shade that comes in clear, milky white, and ombre options. The tall, sturdy base is equally striking and comes in antique brass, antique bronze, polished nickel, or dark bronze. Altogether, it makes for a modern and eye-catching statement piece. This lamp has a metal body and base, and the shade is made of glass. You can choose from two heights (6 or 8 feet) and four color combinations. This pick comes with a white LED bulb and has an on/off switch on the round base. Assembly is simple, too, so you can set this lamp up in no time. On the downside, the lampshade is not adjustable and its unique style might not be for everyone. However, if you want to make a statement with an exposed bulb, you won’t regret picking up this globe floor lamp. Price at time of publish: From $239
Dimensions: 12 x 58 inchesWattage: 60 wattsMaterial: Metal, glassFeatures: None
Who it isn’t for: People who want a sleek, adjustable floor lamp. Regular floor lamps can add style and light to a room, but those with shelves add utility, like the Adesso Parker Floor Lamp. This pick is a tall, rectangular lamp with three open shelves and a handy drawer for extra storage space. Use the shelves for holding your drink or displaying a photo or candle, and the drawer can serve as a catch-all for small items like pens or remotes that you might want nearby. This lamp has a durable metal frame with a black finish and a collapsible off-white silk shade. You can operate the light via a pull chain switch, but you’ll need to buy the bulb separately (it can accommodate up to 150 watts). On the plus side, the lamp’s thin frame and square base make it great for fitting into small spaces, and the price is on the lower end of those on our list. Overall, it’s a good choice for people who want a floor lamp that comes with shelves for storage or displaying decor. Price at time of publish: $113
Dimensions: 10.25 x 10.25 x 62.5 inchesWattage: 150 wattsMaterial: Metal, brassFeatures: Shelves, drawer
Who it isn’t for: People who don’t want to purchase a bulb separately. Not all floor lamps have to look so, well, lamp-like. This unique option from Urban Outfitters has an eye-catching sculptural design that’s sure to grab everyone’s attention the moment they walk into your home. It’s both a lighting fixture and an art piece in one, thanks to its curved cutout base made from resin (we think it almost resembles a person’s silhouette), as well as its woven fabric shade that comes in a cream-colored hue. This striking lamp comes in black and white options for the tall base, and both neutral hues are equally stunning. Overall, this floor lamp has a boho feel that’s mixed with modernism, making it a great pick for a variety of home decor styles. It’s on the more expensive side, but you’re paying for the gorgeous sculptural artwork. It doesn’t come with a bulb, so you’ll have to purchase one separately. Price at time of publish: $349
Dimensions: 15.5 x 70 inchesWattage: 60 wattsMaterial: Resin, fabricFeatures: None
But if you’re looking for a more affordable option, we recommend the Simple Designs Floor Lamp With Reading Light. It has two separate lights, one of which is on an adjustable arm, and has three brightness levels to choose from.
How to Shop for Floor Lamps Like a Pro
Type
There are many variations of floor lamps, including arc, tripod, torchiere, and globe styles. The type you select depends on your personal decor preferences as well as its function. If you need a reading light, opt for an arc lamp with an angled arm, while if you just want to add a subtle glow to your space, pick a torchiere or globe lamp that gives off a duller but warmer light.
Brightness
If you want your floor lamp to add brightness to the entire room, look for options with LED bulbs, as these emit the most lumens per watt (ie. are the brightest bulb). But for those who want an accent light, a regular bulb at an average or below-average watt level will do the trick. Keep in mind that some floor lamps don’t come with light bulbs, so you’ll need to buy them separately—however, this gives you more flexibility on brightness. You can also look for floor lamps with adjustable brightness levels that allow you to dim the lights as needed.
Features
Questions You Might Ask
What type of floor lamp gives off the most light?
“The one that combines the best delivery and best color temperature,” says Orange. That delivery, he explains, should be bright enough to light the space and reduce glare, and the color temperature should be “fresh, but not necessarily cold.”
How tall should a floor lamp be?
Floor lamps come in a variety of sizes, but the best height depends on the room it’s placed in. “The point of a floor lamp is to raise the light source to approximately midway between the floor and ceiling of a standard-height space, so about head height with a shade and cover, if a torchiere,” says Orange.
How many watts should a floor lamp be?
That depends on how much light you want to be emitted into your space. If you want an ultra-bright light, aim for lamps with 100 to 150-watt maxes, but if you only need an accent or subtle illumination less wattage will be perfectly acceptable.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Rachel Simon, a writer for Better Homes & Gardens, Real Simple, The New York Times, and many other publications. She frequently covers home products and did significant research on floor lamps for this story, including speaking to Andrew Orange, an interior designer and light specialist behind the lighting resource Quick & Easy Lighting.
