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The floor lamps stand on a red background with a yellow glow center Credit: Reviewed / Govee / Adesso / Threshold

Best Floor Lamps of 2025

Products are chosen independently by our editors. Purchases made through our links may earn us a commission.

The floor lamps stand on a red background with a yellow glow center Credit: Reviewed / Govee / Adesso / Threshold

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Product image of Brightech Sky LED Torchiere Super Bright Floor Lamp
Best Floor Lamp

Brightech Sky LED Torchiere Super Bright Floor Lamp

Check Price at Amazon

The Brightech Sky excels in real-world use—it’s bright, sturdy, and easy to use. Read More

Pros

  • Can light a full room brightly
  • Slim, modern design fits discreetly in corners
  • Sturdy weighted base for tip-resistance
  • Dimmable touch controls
  • Long-lasting integrated LED (no bulbs to replace)

Cons

  • Tall users might catch a glare
  • Only available in a single finish color
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Product image of Threshold Shelf Floor Lamp
Best Value Floor Lamp

Threshold Shelf Floor Lamp

Check Price at Target

This Target brand lamp is a sturdy lamp for the price, and the added shelves truly make it a bargain. Read More

Pros

  • Built-in shelves provide extra storage
  • Clean, versatile design suits many decor styles
  • Easy to assemble; solid once put together

Cons

  • Lamp’s on-off switch is slightly awkward to reach
  • Fabric shade may sit slightly askew
  • Not as bright as multi-light lamps
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Product image of 360 Lighting Dawson Traditional Pharmacy Floor Lamp
Best Reading Lamp

360 Lighting Dawson Traditional Pharmacy Floor Lamp

Check Price at Amazon

Timeless pharmacist lamp design, complete with a metal swing arm and an adjustable height pole, allows you to direct light exactly where needed. Read More

Pros

  • Classic design adds a sophisticated touch
  • Highly adjustable
  • Solid metal construction with a weighted base (minimal wobble)
  • Available in multiple finishes

Cons

  • Not meant to light up an entire room
  • No built-in dimmer
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Product image of Adesso Arc Floor Lamp
Best Arc Lamp

Adesso Arc Floor Lamp

Check Price at Amazon

The Adesso Trinity Arc Lamp offers designer looks and big coverage for a reasonable price, making it our top arc lamp pick. Read More

Pros

  • Adjustable arms light a wide area
  • Modern arc design makes a stylish focal point
  • 4-way switch allows flexible lighting
  • Sturdy weighted base

Cons

  • Hanging wire design for the shades means they can sway if knocked
  • Has a large footprint
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Product image of Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp
Best Smart Floor Lamp

Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp

Check Price at Amazon

The Govee Uplighter is a sleek 3-in-1 smart floor lamp that delivers a dazzling light show when you want ambiance and bright, focused illumination. Read More

Pros

  • Multi-zone 3-in-1 lighting
  • Excellent smart integration
  • Dynamic ambient effects
  • Powerful and functional
  • Sturdy, sleek design

Cons

  • Color limitations in ripple mode (separated RGB components)
  • Matter support is limited and current integration only allows control of the white light and on/off
  • Ambient light, not primary room light
  • Best Floor Lamp Brightech Sky LED Torchiere Super Bright Floor Lamp
  • Best Value Floor Lamp Threshold Shelf Floor Lamp
  • Best Reading Lamp 360 Lighting Dawson Traditional Pharmacy Floor Lamp
  • Best Arc Lamp Adesso Arc Floor Lamp
  • Best Smart Floor Lamp Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp
  • Best Splurge Design West Elm Telescoping Adjustable Floor Lamp
  • Best Ultra Budget Buy Room Essentials Torchiere with Task Light Floor Lamp
  • Not for Everyone: When a Floor Lamp Isn’t the Right Choice
  • Things to Consider When Buying a Floor Lamp
  • FAQ: Floor Lamps
  • Why Trust Reviewed?
  • Read More About Lighting on Reviewed

Floor lamps can transform a space by adding both illumination and style. Unlike ceiling lights, they offer cozy, targeted lighting and can serve as decorative pieces of furniture. Whether you need to brighten an entire room or create a focused reading nook, there’s a floor lamp to meet your needs.

We’ve researched the latest models and popular favorites (including hands-on tested picks and consumer-loved designs) to compile this list of the best floor lamps you can buy right now. Our selection covers a variety of styles and budgets, ensuring you’ll find a great option whether you want a high-end design piece or an affordable way to light up a corner.

A lamp stands on a red and yellow fade background
Credit: Reviewed / Brightech
Best Floor Lamp
Brightech Sky LED Torchiere Super Bright Floor Lamp

For an all-purpose floor lamp that can light up an entire room, the Brightech Sky LED Torchiere is a proven winner. This minimalist LED lamp is bright enough to blind you with its impressive 2,000 lumens. Frankly, this glow-up can challenge most overhead lighting, so maybe wear your sunglasses while setting it up.

In our research, it stood out for its sleek design, stability, and sheer brightness. The disc-shaped LED head pivots to direct light upward or at an angle, blanketing your space with diffuse light. Simple touch controls allow you to adjust it from gentle mood lighting to ultra-bright task lighting. Owners love that the Brightech Sky is powerful enough to light a room that doesn’t have overhead lighting, as is the case with many older homes along the East Coast, speaking from experience. Yet its modern pole design barely takes up any floor space, and it has more character and panache than your average boob light.

This lamp has over 7,000 five-star reviews on Amazon, which feels like a cult following, and that’s hard to ignore. We also appreciate its build quality: The base is weighted (approximately 8 pounds) to prevent tipping, and the integrated LED is rated to last 20-plus years. You can assemble it in minutes, as it arrives in just a few pieces, so thank your lucky stars you won’t have an IKEA-sized project on your hands. Simply put, if you need a lot of light in a simple, affordable package, this lamp is your best bet.

Testing and Expert Feedback: The Brightech lamp brand earned top marks in expert roundups for brightness and convenience. Both Wirecutter and TechGearLab’s tests show that other models under the Brightech brand umbrella outperform competitors. While we didn’t test this lamp ourselves either, users who own it found it to be “easily my best purchase this year” (Alex Kesin, on Amazon), citing that it “provides a lot more light than most single lamps of this size and price point” (Heidi Neilson, on Amazon). The only caveat is its height (about 6 feet); if you’re very tall, the LED disk might be at eye-level and could cause glare when viewed directly. If you’ve achieved a Goliath stature, you can probably guess that angling the head or positioning it slightly behind a couch easily solves this.

Pros

  • Can light a full room brightly

  • Slim, modern design fits discreetly in corners

  • Sturdy weighted base for tip-resistance

  • Dimmable touch controls

  • Long-lasting integrated LED (no bulbs to replace)

Cons

  • Tall users might catch a glare

  • Only available in a single finish color

Buy now at Amazon


$119.99 from Macy's

A lamp stands on a red and yellow fade background
Credit: Reviewed / Threshold
Best Value Floor Lamp
Threshold Shelf Floor Lamp

If you’re looking for the most bang for your buck, this Threshold Shelf Floor Lamp (Target’s in-house brand) is a fantastic choice. It’s more than just a lamp—it doubles as a small two-tiered bookshelf or display shelf, making it perfect for tight spaces. Do you have a college student? Do you have a lot of houseplants or knick-knacks collecting dust? It sounds like this might be the floor lamp for you. Wink, wink.

We love how this lamp delivers functionality and style at a budget-friendly cost. The design features a clean-lined MDF frame (available in neutral black or brown) with two built-in shelves and a rectangular linen drum shade on top.

The overall look blends with most décor, but it definitely has a contemporary aesthetic. At 62 inches tall, it provides ample illumination coverage area. While inexpensive, it also offers a few perks—reviewers love the added shelving and “the USB port near the top” to plug a phone into (Ranch mom, Target). The lamp uses a standard E26 bulb (up to 150W incandescent or equivalent LED), allowing you to choose your desired brightness.

Real-world Feedback: This Threshold lamp is popular and well-rated–it’s often recommended in forums and has strong reviews on Target’s site (73% are 4-star or higher). In our analysis of user feedback, many buyers were pleasantly surprised by the ease of assembly and stylish, dual design at this price point. Minor downsides cited were that the quality and/or materials seem “flimsy” (Brittany, Target) and “cheap” (Wilfordgirl, Target), and the shade may not sit perfectly straight (Jamie, Target), but these are small trade-offs. All in all, we believe this lamp is an excellent value, especially for small apartments or dorms where multi-purpose furniture is essential. Who wants to spend money on a nicer model when it may be covered in dorm room “residue” after 10 months? Hold on to those savings for your starter home.

Pros

  • Built-in shelves provide extra storage

  • Clean, versatile design suits many decor styles

  • Easy to assemble; solid once put together

Cons

  • Lamp’s on-off switch is slightly awkward to reach

  • Fabric shade may sit slightly askew

  • Not as bright as multi-light lamps

$75.00 from Target

A lamp stands on a red and yellow fade background
Credit: Reviewed / 360 Lighting
Best Reading Lamp
360 Lighting Dawson Traditional Pharmacy Floor Lamp

For avid readers (or knitters, or crossword puzzle doers—we don’t discriminate) who want a focused task light with vintage charm, the Dawson Modern Pharmacy Floor Lamp is a top pick. The timeless pharmacist lamp design, complete with a metal swing arm and an adjustable height pole, allows you to direct light exactly where needed. The Dawson stands 55 inches tall at full height, and you can lower it or swivel the boom arm to position the light for reading or other tasks.

We love its antique brass finish (also available in bronze or nickel) and understated elegance, which gives it cozy library vibes, yet the style is clean enough to fit seamlessly into modern spaces or blend into living rooms without clashing.

What sets the Dawson apart is the combination of fashion, function, and flexibility all in one lamp. You get a vintage aesthetic, along with practical benefits. It’s no surprise that this model has a bit of a following on Amazon—we found over 1,000 reviews averaging around 4.4 stars, indicating that many bookworms are happy with it. It’s also frequently recommended in decorating blogs (like Liven Design) and among DIYer (like Making It in the Mountains) as a budget-friendly alternative to high-end pharmacy lamps (which can cost more than $300).

Performance and Features: The Dawson lamp utilizes a standard bulb of up to 60W, which is sufficient for reading when the lamp is positioned nearby. The metal swing arm rotates, and the head tilts, allowing you to fine-tune the lighting angle precisely. This flexibility is great for avoiding glare on book pages or directing light over your shoulder. At nine pounds, owners comment that the base is heavy enough to keep it stable, even when fully extended. The lamp is easy to assemble and features nice touches, such as a rotary dimmer switch on the head. While it’s not as overwhelmingly bright as a multi-bulb lamp, it excels as a personal reading or task light. Expert tip: Use a warm white LED bulb (around 2700K) in this lamp for a cozy glow that’s easy on the eyes during long reading sessions.

Pros

  • Classic design adds a sophisticated touch

  • Highly adjustable

  • Solid metal construction with a weighted base (minimal wobble)

  • Available in multiple finishes

Cons

  • Not meant to light up an entire room

  • No built-in dimmer

Buy now at Amazon


$79.99 from Macy's

A lamp stands on a red and yellow fade background
Credit: Reviewed / Adesso
Best Arc Lamp
Adesso Arc Floor Lamp

To light up a larger area (like over a sectional sofa)—and IOO make a bold design statement—look to the Adesso Trinity Arc Lamp. This dramatic lamp features three arms that spread out from a central post, each ending in its own cylindrical fabric shade. The result is a wide canopy of light that has reach, perfect for placing next to a couch or in a corner to cast light across the room.

When it comes to design, the Trinity is both stylish and practical. The curving, brushed steel arms give a mid-century modern vibe, and they’re adjustable, allowing you to position them closer together or farther apart to cover the space you need. Total bonus: Each arm has its own switch (and there’s a 4-way rotary switch), so you can choose to light one, two, or all three lamps at once. Essentially, it’s like having a cluster of three lamps in one, which is fantastic for ambient lighting in large rooms or creating a cozy conversation area.

We also appreciate the sturdy construction—it features a hefty marble base (approximately 13 inches in diameter) that keeps it stable despite its sweeping arms. In testing and user reviews, the Adesso Trinity consistently stands out for its quality and visual impact.

Assembly of the Trinity Arc takes some effort—many reviewers mention that you’ll need to allot some time and possibly an extra set of hands, as the pieces are heavy. However, once assembled, you’re rewarded with a truly striking lamp. In fact, some reviewers, like PeterPan on Amazon, say, “Loved so much that I purchased a 2nd. Great value, excellent light, and looks beautiful.”

The lamp uses three standard bulbs (60W each max), so combined, you can get a lot of light if you use high-lumen bulbs. Alternatively, install dimmer or smart bulbs, and you’ve a very versatile lighting setup.

One huge plus: The Adesso is more adjustable than similar 3-arc lamps, allowing it to cover a wide area or be pulled in tighter to save space.

One downside: The arms hang from wires rather than solid stems, so they can sway a bit if bumped. It’s not a deal-breaker, just something to be aware of when placing it (corner placement helps).

Also, keep in mind its height—roughly 82 inches at the tallest arch—which is great for clearance. Just make sure your ceiling is high enough because you will be so sad if it can’t accommodate this lovely lamp. Not to mention a hard return to make at your local Amazon return drop.

Pros

  • Adjustable arms light a wide area

  • Modern arc design makes a stylish focal point

  • 4-way switch allows flexible lighting

  • Sturdy weighted base

Cons

  • Hanging wire design for the shades means they can sway if knocked

  • Has a large footprint

$131.90 from Amazon


$234 $275 at Houzz

A lamp stands on a red and yellow fade background
Credit: Reviewed / Govee
Best Smart Floor Lamp
Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp

Smart home enthusiasts looking for versatility will love the Govee Uplighter, a new entry into the market in 2025. This innovative floor lamp features three independent lighting zones in a single unit. The top section projects a ceiling-facing water ripple effect for mood lighting, the middle ring provides customizable RGBIC color glow, and the lower ring shines a powerful 1,000-lumen white downlight for reading or tasks.

To maximize the lamp’s capabilities, users can switch from zone to zone using Govee’s app, schedule the light to turn on and off automatically, create custom scenes and/or set preloaded ones, more. You can run the ripple projector, side accent light, or downlight individually or in combination. Users can also link it to an existing Alexa and Google Assistant account for voice commands; and it supports Matter for compatibility with Apple HomeKit and other platforms.

There is a push button control on the lamp stand, but you can only use it to turn the light on or off and to rotate through warm-to-cool temperatures of white light on the lower light zone.

Home product expert and Reviewed’s executive editor Leigh Harrington (me) tested the Govee Uplighter lamp in her living room. The build quality—rust-proof aluminum construction and a modern inner-tube design—impressed me, but also had me questioning whether its style would fit with my personal aesthetic. Once set up though, it blends right in. Side note: Setup is refreshingly easy (the segments come pre-wired and screw together in minutes), and the base is weighted for stability.

Practically speaking, at 68 inches tall, it’s higher than the old Govee Lyra lamp, which means it casts a wider illumination area. Its LED lamp head rotates 330 degrees to splash colorful light over a wide area (up to 215 sq. ft. on the ceiling/walls). Good to know for Govee fans looking to purchase or replace. My favorite part of the lamp’s illumination is the upward ripple projection. It feels a bit trippy and definitely has a mesmerizing effect with its multi-toned red, green, and blue moving waves. Cycling through the 80-plus preloaded scenes is fun and incorporates the side light to get you to Candy Cane, Peaceful, or Jupiter. The Govee Home app also lets you access advanced modes like music sync (the lamp can pulse to sound from its built-in mic or your phone) and that’s fun whether you’re rocking out to Pitbull or Fleetwood Mac.

While the Uplighter’s smart features are its big draw, you must be comfortable using the app—and wanting to use the app—to make the most out of its functionality. If you aren’t, this lamp simply is not for you.

Pros

  • Multi-zone 3-in-1 lighting

  • Excellent smart integration

  • Dynamic ambient effects

  • Powerful and functional

  • Sturdy, sleek design

Cons

  • Color limitations in ripple mode (separated RGB components)

  • Matter support is limited and current integration only allows control of the white light and on/off

  • Ambient light, not primary room light

Buy now at Amazon


$248.34 from eBay

A lamp stands on a red and yellow fade background
Credit: Reviewed / West Elm
Best Splurge Design
West Elm Telescoping Adjustable Floor Lamp

Bougie homeowners and city dwellers alike seem to adore West Elm just as much as interior designers, so it’s no surprise that a West Elm floor lamp wins Reviewed’s best splurge award. The Telescoping Adjustable Floor Lamp is a standout choice for luxury, at least when style and longevity are top priorities. This lamp is frequently cited by interior designers like Melissa Vickers as “​​combining the practicality of adjustable lighting with the elegance of modern sculpture” and duped by manufacturers thanks to its timeless design and superb build.

It features a slim metal pole with a flat, two-tone antique bronze and satin black finish, a natural linen drum shade, and an adjustable height via its telescoping neck, which extends up to 5 feet. The result is a lamp that looks high-end and can adapt to different placements—shorter as a reading lamp by a chair, or taller for general room lighting.

In our view, it’s the kind of piece that elevates a room’s décor rather than just blending in. Despite being a splurge, its versatility and quality justify the cost for many. The heavy base and metal construction mean it’s built to last (and even carries contract grade certification for commercial, as well as residential, use). It’s more of a beautiful ambient lamp than a super-bright task light—the linen shade and single bulb are perfect for creating atmosphere, but if you need very bright light, you may want to supplement with another light or a higher lumen bulb (or choose a torchiere-style lamp instead).

Part of what we love about this lamp is its customization options, which are achieved without any gimmicks. The telescoping adjustment is smooth and doesn’t wobble at your chosen height up to 5 and a half feet. The linen shade diffuses light beautifully, providing a warm, soft glow (it takes a single 60W bulb), and the entire package suits many styles, especially transitional ones. We’ve also seen this lamp recommended in The Strategist’s “Best Floor Lamps” list as the Best Overall pick—the writer names it the best overall floor lamp on their list for its versatility and just-below-$300 price being worth it for the quality.

Price and availability are the only downsides to this floor lamp. At $299, it’s significantly pricier than other options here, and it’s only available through West Elm (so you may want to wait for a sale or use a coupon if one is available).

Pros

  • Adjustable height adds versatility

  • Premium materials and finishes

  • Classic design that complements many decor styles

  • Sturdy base and overall build quality

Cons

  • Expensive upfront cost

  • Lacks smart features

  • Limited availability

Buy now at West Elm

A lamp stands on a red and yellow fade background
Credit: Reviewed / Room Essentials
Best Ultra Budget Buy
Room Essentials Torchiere with Task Light Floor Lamp

Yes, you read that right—this simple floor lamp costs under $20, making it an ideal choice for anyone on a tight budget (think college students, first apartment, or just a temporary lighting need).

Despite the rock-bottom price, the Room Essentials Torchiere with Task Light is surprisingly useful. It combines two types of lamps in one: an upward-facing torchiere lamp for general room illumination, and an attached gooseneck reading light for task lighting.

The main lamp takes a 3-way bulb (up to 150W incandescent or equivalent LED), giving you three brightness levels for the room. The smaller adjustable arm has its own on/off switch and takes a 40W max bulb.

We included this lamp because it’s truly the best at the ultra-budget end: It’s far more versatile than other cheap $15 lamps thanks to that extra reading light. In our experience, the build is light-weight (mostly plastic and thin metal), but if assembled carefully it stands stable on flat floors. It obviously won’t have the longevity or style of the more expensive picks, but for the price, it’s hard to complain.

Pros

  • Ultra-cheap price

  • Two-in-one design

  • 3-way switch on main lamp allows for multiple brightness levels

  • Easy to assemble

  • Great for temporary setups

Cons

  • Build quality is fairly basic

  • Utilitarian appearance

  • Easily tipped if knocked

  • Less durable over the long term

$17.00 from Target

Not for Everyone: When a Floor Lamp Isn’t the Right Choice

Floor lamps are wonderfully versatile, but they do have their limitations.

Limited floor space

First, floor space is a consideration. By their nature, floor lamps need a bit of room on the ground—if your room is extremely small or you already have loads of furniture, a floor lamp might be inconvenient. You can’t magically squeeze beside a couch or bed without clearance. In such cases, wall-mounted sconces or table lamps might serve you better.

Additionally, in homes with very active kids or pets, floor lamps can pose a tipping hazard. As one of Reviewed’s home experts, Jean Levasseur, shared, with “two 7-year-old boys and a 95-pound Labrador running around, we’ve had more than one incident” of a floor lamp getting knocked over. If rambunctious children or big pets are part of your household, you might skip a floor lamp (or choose one with an ultra-sturdy base and keep it tucked behind furniture).

If you require very bright, overhead illumination

A single floor lamp may not suffice in lighting an entire large room, if you like to keep the mood bright. While our best overall floor lamp pick, the Brightech Sky LED Torchiere, comes close to mimicking a ceiling light, one lamp in a huge space can leave dark corners.

If you need even, whole-room lighting (e.g. for a home workshop or a large office), multiple fixtures or installed overhead lighting might be better.

If you’re extremely style-conscious

Be aware that some affordable floor lamps skew towards function over form—you might dislike how a cheap lamp looks in an otherwise meticulously designed room (in that case, investing in a higher-end design like West Elm or an artistic lamp could be worth it).

The good news is that there are alternatives: wall sconces, pendant lights, or even bright LED strip lighting can sometimes fill the role of a floor lamp without occupying floor real estate. But for most people who can spare a corner, a floor lamp provides a perfect blend of form and function.

Things to Consider When Buying a Floor Lamp

Choosing the right floor lamp involves more than just picking a pretty style. Here are the key factors and features to keep in mind in your decision process:

Lighting needs and lamp type

Think about how you plan to use the lamp. Do you need to light up an entire room, or just a focused area for reading the latest book in the Iron Flame series? Different lamp designs serve different purposes.

For example, torchieres direct light upward to illuminate a whole room with gentle, indirect light, making them great as primary lights. Task lamps (like pharmacy or arc lamps) direct light downward or outward and are better for reading or spotlighting a section of a room.

If you want both, consider a tree lamp or multi-head lamp—these often have adjustable arms to aim light in multiple directions.

Size and height

Floor lamps come in varying heights—usually between about 4 feet to 7 feet tall. Measure your space to ensure the lamp will fit and light the intended area. There’s no use splurging on a 7-foot multihead lamp for your basement rec room that has a low drop ceiling.

Next to a sofa, a shorter lamp about 4 feet to 5 feet with an adjustable arm works well for sewing or Sudoku. Also consider base diameter, as some bases are wide for stability, which could be an issue in a tight corner.

Stability and safety

A good floor lamp should have a stable base, especially if there are kids, pets, or klutzy adults in the home. Heavier bases (metal or marble) are ideal for keeping the lamp upright, because if the lamp is tall and top-heavy but has a flimsy base, it could—and let’s be honest, will tip. We do not recommend any lamps in this guide with consistent reports of tipping. If you’re particularly concerned, you can always position the lamp behind furniture so it’s less accessible.

For safety, also check if the lamp has an ETL or UL certification, which means it meets certain electrical safety standards (most reputable brands do).

Brightness and bulb type

Consider how bright you need the lamp to be and what kind of bulbs it uses. Floor lamps can range from a single 40W bulb (providing a soft glow) to multiple 100W-equivalent LEDs blazing away.

Many modern lamps use integrated LED arrays, while others take standard screw-in bulbs. Integrated LEDs, as in the Govee Uplighter or Brightech Sky, typically last for years (20,000+ hours) but cannot be replaced by the user.

As for brightness, check lumens if available: ~800 lumens is like a 60W incandescent—decent for reading; 1,500+ lumens can comfortably light up a bedroom or small living room. The Brightech Sky offers 2,190 lumens on max, which is very well may blind you.

If a floor lamp features multiple bulbs, you can always only turn on some of them. It’s also wise to consider color temperature; for a cozy atmosphere, use warm white bulbs (2,700K). To mimic daylight, go for neutral or cool (4,000K–5,000K). Some LED floor lamps have adjustable color temperature, which is a nice feature.

Controls and smart features

How you turn your lamp on/off (or dim it) affects daily convenience, and no matter which side of the “smart feature” field you’re on, you likely have a strong opinion on it. Common manual control types are foot switches, rotary knobs, pull chains, or touch sensors.

Foot switches are handy if the lamp is behind furniture or for those with limited dexterity. Pull chains are classic and easy, though occasionally can break or be less convenient if the lamp is tall. Touch controls offer dimming and modern flair but can be triggered accidentally (e.g., brushing against the pole).

Some lamps come with smart features—and Govee’s Uplighter is a progressive example. These allow control via mobile apps and voice assistants like Alexa or Google Assistant. But, even if a lamp isn’t “smart” out of the box, you can make it smart by using a smart plug or smart bulb.

Style and aesthetics

A floor lamp is a piece of décor as much as a light source, and you’ll want it to complement your room’s style. Lucky for us, floor lamps come in every design imaginable—modern, mid-century, industrial, traditional, farmhouse, you name it.

Consider the finish (metallic brass vs. matte black, etc.), the shade material (fabric vs. glass vs. none), and overall silhouette. For example, a tripod lamp with a large drum shade gives a casual, contemporary look, while a Tiffany-style stained glass lamp screams vintage character.

Also think about whether you want the lamp to stand out as a statement piece or blend in. An arc lamp often becomes a focal point due to its size and drama, whereas a simple torchiere might virtually disappear in the corner.

Special features

Some floor lamps come with built-in tables or shelves, while others have swing arms or goosenecks for extreme adjustability. A few high-end models might have multiple lighting modes or even built-in LED night lights.

And if you’re into smart homes, look for lamps marketed as “Works with Alexa/Google” or simply plan to use smart bulbs. If energy efficiency matters, lean toward LED lamps, and lastly consider warranty—better brands often offer 1-3 year warranties on their lamps.

FAQ: Floor Lamps

What are the different types of floor lamps available?

An info graphic with 5 styles of floor lamps
Credit: Reviewed

Floor lamps come in several common types, each with a distinct purpose.

  • Torchiere Lamps: These have an upward-facing shade (often a bowl shape) that directs light toward the ceiling, diffusing light all around the room (like our Brightech pick). Great for ambient lighting.
  • Arc Lamps: Characterized by a long, curved arm that extends outwards from the base, ending in a hanging shade. They can reach over furniture and act like an overhead light—excellent for placing beside or behind a sofa.
  • Task/Pharmacy Lamps: These are designed for reading or work, with adjustable arms or goosenecks to direct light exactly where needed. A pharmacy lamp (like our Dawson pick) is a classic example with a swing arm.
  • Tree Lamps: A “tree” floor lamp has multiple branches or heads stemming from one pole (usually 2-5 heads). Each head can often be aimed separately, providing light in different directions. Good for multi-purpose lighting.
  • Shelf Lamps: Also known as etagere lamps, these incorporate shelves or tables into the lamp’s body (our Threshold pick is one). They serve dual functions as small furniture pieces.
  • Traditional Shade Lamps: This is the typical lamp with a single bulb and a fabric or glass shade on top of a pole (think of a big table lamp on the floor). Many styles, including tripod base lamps, fall here.

When choosing, decide if you want mostly uplight (torchiere), downlight (task lamp), or a combination. Often, a room benefits from using multiple types for layers of light.

How many lumens (or what wattage) do I need in a floor lamp to light a room?

It depends on the size of your room and how bright you like it. As a rule of thumb, a small bedroom or office (10 feet x 10 feet) is well-lit by about 1,500-3,000 lumens total. A larger living room might need 3,000 to 5,000 lumens, which often means multiple lamps or light sources. A single floor lamp can range anywhere from 800 lumens (equivalent to a 60W incandescent bulb) to 2,000-plus lumens for very bright LED models.

Are LED floor lamps better than those that use traditional bulbs?

LED floor lamps have become very popular for good reasons. LEDs are more energy-efficient and stay cooler than incandescent or halogen bulbs. An LED floor lamp can give you the same brightness as an old 100W lamp while only using 15-20 watts of power. This saves both electricity (and money).

While more expensive to buy, LEDs also last a long time; many integrated LEDs are rated for 20,000 hours or more, which could be 15-plus years of use.

The downside of integrated LED lamps is, as noted, you cannot replace the LED module easily if it fails. However, failures are rare and often covered by warranty if it happens prematurely. Traditional floor lamps with sockets give you flexibility to use different types of bulbs (incandescent, CFL, smart bulb, etc.).

For most people, an LED floor lamp is “better” in that it’s efficient, bright, and low-maintenance.

How can I control a floor lamp with smart home devices?

There are two easy ways to make a regular floor lamp “smart”:

First, use a smart plug. Plug your lamp into a smart outlet or plug adaptor that connects to Wi-Fi. This way, you can use voice commands or phone apps to turn the lamp on/off (the lamp’s physical switch would be left in the ON position).

Alternatively, you can use a smart bulb. Many floor lamps use standard E26 bulbs—simply swap in a smart bulb (like Philips Hue, Wyze, or others). You’ll then control the bulb via your smart home system. This gives you dimming and sometimes color changing, depending on the bulb. For multi-bulb lamps, you might need a smart bulb in each socket for full control.

What is a torchiere floor lamp and why would I want one?

A torchiere is a specific style of floor lamp that directs light upward, usually with a bowl- or cone-shaped shade sitting atop the pole. (The word comes from French for “torch”).

The upward lighting bounces off the ceiling to provide gentle, widespread illumination. It can brighten up an entire room without the lamp shining directly in your eyes. They are excellent for adding ambient light and can make a room feel taller or more open by highlighting the ceiling.

Torchieres are also space-savers – most have a slim profile. Our Best Overall Brightech Sky is essentially a modern LED torchiere (very slim disk instead of a bowl, but same concept). Traditional torchieres often have glass or plastic bowl shades and use powerful bulbs (150W or more).

One thing to consider is that torchieres typically don’t provide downward task light—so they’re not the best for reading or precision work.

How do I prevent my floor lamp from tipping over?

Start by choosing a well-made lamp with a weighted base—all our picks have sturdy bases for this reason. Once you have the lamp, here are some tips:

  • Placement: Position the lamp where it’s least likely to get bumped. Placing it behind a piece of furniture (so only the top peeks out) is a common method. For example, put it behind an end table or in a corner behind a chair. This not only hides the cord but also protects the lamp.
  • Cord Management: Ensure the power cord is tucked away or secured along baseboards. A loose cord can be tripped over, possibly yanking the lamp down. Use cord clips or covers to keep it out of pathways.
  • Add Weight: If your lamp’s base is detachable (some have hollow bases you can fill with sand, etc.), you can add weight to it. Some DIYers have creatively attached weights or even glued the lamp to a larger board for stability—but these solutions are usually not necessary if the lamp is decent.
  • Teach Household Members: Got a house full of boys? Remind them not to wrestle near lamps. Consider lamps with a low center of gravity if toddlers are around, e.g., tripod lamps or those with very wide bases might be safer.
  • Pet Considerations: If you have cats that love to rub or dogs with happy tails, an arc lamp might be better placed in a corner where the base is out of reach and the light hangs overhead. Or use double-sided tape or museum putty on the bottom of the base to give it extra grip on hardwood floors.

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For floor lamps, we consulted reputable sources and scoured user feedback to identify lamps that truly stand out. Each lamp mentioned was either tested by our own experts, impressed professional testers, or earned the love of hundreds (if not thousands) of owners—and often, both.

Read More About Lighting on Reviewed

For more tips, product reviews, and ideas related to floor lamps and home lighting, check out these articles on Reviewed.com and beyond:

15 Top-Rated Floor Lamps That Will Light Up Your Space: In this feature, Reviewed’s team rounded up popular floor lamps from various retailers , including some unique designs like a Z-Bar LED lamp and a Tiffany-style lamp. It’s a great read to discover trendy lamps and what real owners love about them.

Floor Lamp or Wall Sconce? Home Lighting Tips to Go By: Not sure if a floor lamp is right for your room? This helpful article compares floor lamps to wall-mounted lights, weighing the pros and cons of each. It provides guidance on when you should use a floor lamp versus installing a sconce, with safety and style considerations.

I Bought Into TikTok’s Sunset Lamp Trend—Here’s My Honest Review: Those viral “sunset projection” lamps are a fun lighting gadget. Reviewed’s writer tested one and shares whether it’s actually useful or just an aesthetic toy. Spoiler: It did create a beautiful ambiance (great as an accent alongside your main lamps).

Here’s the Truth Behind Himalayan Salt Lamps: Salt lamps are another popular decor item that double as lights. This piece debunks some myths and explains do they really purify air or improve mood? If you’ve ever been curious about those glowing pink salt rock lamps, give this a read.

The Best Smart Bulbs of 2025: If you plan to smart-enable your floor lamp, you’ll need a good smart bulb. Reviewed’s roundup of smart bulbs goes over the top choices (like Philips Hue, LIFX, etc.), including which have the best colors, easiest apps, and integration with Alexa/Google.

Meet the tester

Leigh Harrington

Leigh Harrington

Executive Editor

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Leigh Harrington has 25 years experience as a writer and editor for myriad print and digital publications.

At Reviewed, Harrington manages Reviewed's overall content, including areas of focus like home improvement, cleaning, gardening, cooking, smart home, organization, and parenting. She focuses on developing and editing consumer ed content, product reviews and buying guides, but she also writes, too.

Harrington is also an experienced travel writer, and has authored books including Fodor's Boston, 100 Things to Do in Boston Before You Die, and Colorful Cities Boston, an adult coloring book. She was a respected, longtime regional editorial director at Where travel guide, and has written for other publications including the US News & World Report, USA Today, Boston Herald, Newport Life, Exhale magazine, Huffington Post, and many more. www.leighharrington.com

See all of Leigh Harrington's reviews

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