Table Lamps Selection Guide
Table lamps come in two types, rechargeable touch LED and banker's lamps; selection comes down to criteria such as battery capacity, charging input and light color.
This guide covers what to look at when choosing products in the Table Lamps category.
Types of table lamps
There are two different constructions in this category, and the choice is made between them first.
- Rechargeable touch LED table lamp: The LED light source is integrated into the body and the lamp draws its power from a built-in 18650 lithium battery. Because it does not need to be plugged in during use, it is used on desks, side tables and nightstands where a cable cannot be run.
- Banker's table lamp: A classic office lamp with a horizontal shade and an E27 lamp holder. The light source is a separate bulb and can be replaced.
Rechargeable models of the Cata brand are in the rechargeable table lamps category; for a night light with a photocell, see the night lights category.
What to look at in a rechargeable model
- Battery capacity. The product data gives the number of batteries and their capacity (for example 1200 mAh or 2000 mAh). Capacity alone does not give the operating time; the time depends on the power the LED draws and the brightness selected.
- Charging input. Charging is done through a USB Type-C input, and the product data lists the input as DC 1 A. The product data does not state whether the adapter and cable are included in the box; verify this before ordering.
- Light color. Three forms appear in the product data: 3000 K only, stepped 3000 K - 4500 K - 6000 K, and variable between 3000-6000 K. 3000 K is in the warm white class, 4500 K neutral white and 6000 K cool white; for reading and writing, neutral or cool light is the common choice, and for relaxing, warm light.
- Control. Rechargeable models have touch control. Which functions (brightness, color) the touch control manages besides on and off varies by model.
- Dimensions. For models with dimensions given, the size is written as base and height in millimeters; in places with limited height, such as under a shelf, check the height.
Choosing a bulb for a banker's lamp
In a banker's lamp, the color and amount of light are determined by the bulb fitted in the E27 lamp holder. The product data does not state whether a bulb comes with the lamp; verify this before ordering. Choose an LED bulb small enough to fit inside the shade, and do not exceed the maximum bulb power written on the lamp's label.
Ordering notes
All of the products are of the ACK brand and are sold not by the single piece but by the manufacturer's carton: the minimum order quantity and the increment step equal the carton contents, which are written on the product page. Body colors are listed under separate model codes; for example, AF11-20034 has a chrome body and AF11-20033 a beige body. You can reach the relevant color directly by typing the model code into site search.
Comparison and selection table
| Selection Criterion | E27 Socket Articulated Desk Lamp | Integrated LED Touch Desk Lamp | Rechargeable Cordless Table Lamp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Light Source | Replaceable E27 LED bulb (user-selectable wattage/CCT) | Built-in flicker-free SMD LED array with diffuser | Integrated LED + USB/Type-C rechargeable Li-ion battery |
| Arm & Base Style | Spring-balanced swing arm, desk clamp or weighted base | Foldable gooseneck/hinge, multi-step CCT (3000K–6500K) | Cordless portable stand, 4–12 hours battery runtime |
| Controls | Inline cord switch or base rocker switch | Touch dimmer, reading/study presets, auto-off timer | Touch stepless dimming, charging indicator |
| Typical Application | Drafting tables, workbenches, precision repair | Office desks, study rooms, bedside reading | Cord-free workspaces, hospitality tables, outage backup |
Frequently asked questions
How many hours does a rechargeable table lamp run on one charge?
The time depends on the battery capacity, the power the LED draws and the brightness selected; therefore a single value cannot be given for the category. The product data gives the battery capacity in mAh, and for some models the operating time is also stated. Check which brightness level the stated time applies to; at full brightness the time is shorter than at a low level.
How is a rechargeable table lamp charged?
The rechargeable models in this category are charged through a USB Type-C input, and the product data states the input as DC 1 A. The product data does not state whether a cable or adapter is in the box; verify this before ordering. The output values of the adapter to be used must be compatible with the input values the manufacturer specifies for the lamp.
Which light color should be chosen in a table lamp for studying?
For tasks that demand attention, such as reading and writing, neutral or cool white is the common choice, and for relaxing use, warm white light. In three-step models, 3000 K falls in the warm class, 4500 K neutral and 6000 K cool white, and the step is changed to suit the task. For office work areas, the level EN 12464-1 calls for in writing and reading tasks is 500 lux; a table lamp helps reach this level together with the general lighting of the room.
What is a banker's table lamp?
A banker's lamp is a classic office lamp recognized by its horizontal shade extending parallel to the desk; it directs the light onto the writing surface beneath the shade. The banker's models in this category have an E27 lamp holder and are listed in gold and antique body colors. Because the light source is a separate bulb, light color and brightness vary with the bulb fitted; when the bulb burns out, only the bulb is replaced.
Can a rechargeable table lamp be used in a bathroom or on a balcony?
The product data of the lamps in this category states the IP20 class. An IP20 body has no protection against water; it is not designed for places with splashing water, rain or heavy humidity. A lamp being rechargeable and cordless does not make it suitable for an outdoor or wet environment. For such places, look at luminaires with an IP class suited to the environment.