Comparison desk Lamps

— For study/office. Table lamps for utilitarian purposes, designed to illuminate the desktop when working with documents and other similar activities. They have a fairly restrained design, most often without any decorative details at all, and provide bright, directional light that effectively illuminates the workplace.

— Table floor lamp. Lamps of this type have a characteristic vertical layout, with a lampshade or pendant shade at the top, and are intended primarily for general lighting. With the help of such a lamp you can provide soft, dim light, creating an atmosphere of comfort and relaxation. In principle, such a lamp can also be used to illuminate a work desk: although in practice it is more convenient to use specialized models for this (for study/office - see the corresponding paragraph), a floor lamp can be useful in situations where the table is relatively rarely used as a work table, and most of the time the lamp is needed for general lighting. Note that tabletop floor lamps can be made in different designs - from simple and restrained to quite rich; most often this design is more aesthetically pleasing than that of lamps for work and study, but not as pretentious as that of decorative models (see the corresponding paragraph).

- Candle. Lamps that imitate the appearance of traditional candles - or rather, lamps with candles. One of the most...popular options for this design is a glass made of thick frosted glass, inside of which an LED is hidden. There are also models in the form of an oil lamp, a large open candle, etc. For additional similarity, the “native” light bulbs or LEDs in such lamps can have a characteristic yellowish tint, be shaped like tongues of flame, and even blink slightly during operation, simulating the flickering of a light . It makes no sense to use such lamps as task lighting, but they are ideal for creating an atmosphere of comfort and romance. At the same time, unlike real ones, electric “candles” are fireproof, do not burn, do not “cry” with wax/paraffin, do not smoke and do not create unpleasant odors.

— Decorative. Lamps in an unusual, often quite rich design, designed to be used not only as a light source, but also as a decorative element in a room - to the point that some of these models shine purely symbolically and are not intended for use as lamps as such. The design options for such lamps can be quite varied; some of them do not have a lampshade, with the expectation that the customer will choose it at his own discretion. Also among decorative lamps there are very specific varieties: salt (a lamp hidden inside a salt crystal), lava (a lamp in the form of a flask where colored bubbles float and sink), plasma (a lamp in the form of a ball with “tentacle” discharges moving inside) and so on.

- Children's. Lamps intended for children - mainly from preschool to middle school age. Such models are distinguished primarily by their cute design: they can look like animals, birds, fantastic creatures, be made in the style of a certain animated series or fairy tale, etc. Note that this category includes decorative lamps that serve more as a night light, as well as classic desktop ones designed for study. But their key difference is their beautiful children’s design.

— For the monitor. LED lamps for illuminating the working environment at the computer. As a rule, they are attached to the top edge of the monitor, so they do not take up extra space on the desktop. Monitor lamps have proven themselves well in the dark. The directional light from them reduces visual fatigue and helps avoid excessive strain on the eyes. Such models often include functions for adjusting the intensity of the glow, changing the color temperature of the light and adjusting the scattering angles.

The light source used in the lamp.

— Bulb with base. Models using a replacement bulb (or multiple bulbs). This option provides two key benefits. Firstly, the power and type of the installed light bulb (ordinary, LED, fluorescent, etc.) can be chosen at your discretion. Secondly, a burnt out light bulb can be easily replaced with a new one, there is no need to change the entire lamp or go to a workshop for repair. Of the shortcomings, it can be noted, first of all, that the light bulb itself most often needs to be purchased separately — however, this is not a particular problem. Another nuance of this option is that the most popular E27 base is quite large, and smaller bases are not so widespread, and it may be difficult to find bulbs for them. Because of this, this option is not well suited for lamps of miniature size or thin thickness.

— Light- emitting diode (LED). In this case, we mean a block of one or more built-in (non-removable) LEDs. By themselves, LEDs are the most advanced modern light source: they give excellent brightness at very low power consumption, they can be made in colour and even colour change, and their only key disadvantage is their relatively high cost (which can be paid off by saving electricity). However, non-removable LEDs specifically have one more drawback compared to replaceable bulbs: if the LED block fails, you need to carry the lamp for repair, or even c...hange it entirely. On the other hand, such blocks can be made very tiny without much loss of brightness, which allows them to be used to create very compact and elegant lamps.

Standard power supply provided in the lamp design.

- Net. Powered by a regular household 230V socket. This is the option provided by most table lamps: sockets provide unlimited runtime and are ubiquitous (and where they are not available, you will need a portable flashlight rather than a table lamp). The only significant drawback of this type of power supply is the presence of a wire; however, it usually does not create any noticeable inconvenience, and problems with reaching the outlet are rare and easily resolved.

— Batteries. Powered by replaceable batteries (AA batteries, AAA batteries, etc.). Such batteries can be either disposable or rechargeable. Such power allows you to use the lamp without connecting to an outlet, and the batteries themselves can be quickly replaced when their charge is depleted (unlike built-in batteries, see below). At the same time, table lamps are intended mainly for residential and work spaces, where there are no problems with sockets. At the same time, autonomous power supply inevitably limits the operating time of the lamp, and batteries in particular are suitable only for relatively low-power lighting sources. Therefore, this option is used only in cases where the wire is undesirable or inappropriate. For example, some children's's lamps with a night light function are powered by batteries (so that there are no unneces...sary wires in the children's's room), as well as decorative models in an unusual design (so that the power cord does not spoil the appearance).

- Battery. In this case, we mean an original battery that does not belong to standard “battery” sizes and does not allow for quick replacement (sometimes it is not removable at all). Actually, the inability to quickly replace is precisely the main disadvantage of such power sources compared to the batteries described above. On the other hand, batteries can be made more capacious and at the same time more compact; they are easier to fit into the design of a lamp (even a very small one); and the fact that such food does not need to be purchased separately can also be considered an advantage. Thanks to this, batteries are found more often - both in original lamps, where wire is in principle undesirable, and in lamps for work purposes (mainly LED).

— USB port. Powered by standard USB port. This category of lamps will be appreciated mainly by laptop owners: when working with a laptop, the USB ports are in close proximity, and connecting lamps to such a connector is easier than looking for a socket and pulling a wire to it. However, such a device can also be connected to an outlet - just find a 230-to-USB adapter. USB adapters also exist for car cigarette lighters, so such a lamp can also be useful for mobile use - for example, when traveling outdoors or in the van of a mobile group (scientific, operational, etc.). And if necessary, you can power the lamp from a battery - a separate power bank or the same laptop. At the same time, in general, the scope of application of USB lamps is quite specific, and there are only a few of them produced.

The type of base for which the table lamp socket is designed, and the number of such sockets — for example, marking 3xE14 means that the lamp has 3 sockets for the E14 base.

The number of "seats" for light bulbs is a fairly obvious parameter, we note only a few nuances. So, a larger number of light bulbs (ceteris paribus) allows you to achieve greater brightness and/or lighting area, and also gives a guarantee in case one of them burns out — the power of the lamp will decrease, but it will remain operational. At the same time, one light source is often enough for table lamps, and such models are simpler and more compact.

The most popular types of socles are as follows:

— E27. The classic, most common type of round ("Edison") base — and in general the most popular version of the base in household lamps and light bulbs for them. If you do not have specific requirements for the form and functionality of a table lamp, it makes sense to pay attention primarily to models with such a cartridge. Firstly, the variety of light bulbs under E27 is very large, they can have a different type, power, brightness and colour of light; secondly, such bulbs are sold almost everywhere, and it is not difficult to find them.

— E14. He's a minion. Reduced, compared to the E27 described above, a version of the round "Edison" base, has half the diameter (14 mm instead of 27 mm). Accordin...gly, light bulbs for such a cartridge are also smaller and less powerful than light sources for E27. Among table lamps, the E14 base is used mainly in small-sized models where it is not possible to install a full-size E27.

— G4. Two-pin base with pin diameters from 0.65 to 1.05 mm and a spacing of 4 mm. It is mainly used for round or oblong halogen bulbs. In size, such bulbs are similar to those that use the E14 base (see above), but for a number of reasons they are much less common, like table lamps for the G4 base.

— G6. 2-pin base with approx. 6 mm spacing between pins. It is found mainly in halogen lamps, similar to G4.

— GY6.35. Another variation of the "6mm" two-pin base, with slightly thicker pins than the G6. Equipped with such bases are mainly halogen lamps, including with switchable power.

— G9. 2-pin base with 9 mm contact spacing. Mainly used for conventional halogen lamps; while the size of the base allows it to be used in larger and more powerful lamps than in the case of G4. However, this type of contact is considered quite specific and is relatively rare.

— G23. 2-pin base with 23 mm contact spacing and 2 mm pin diameter. Unlike the type G contacts described above, it is mainly used in fluorescent lamps with an elongated U-shaped bulb.

— GU10. 2-pin base with standard 10 mm contact spacing. It has bulges at the ends of the pins, designed to be fixed in the chuck by turning.

— G10q. A specific type of base used in fluorescent lamps that look like a ring. Not compatible with original G10.

— GU5.3. Two-pin base with a standard contact diameter of 1.4-1.6 mm and a distance between them of 5.33 mm. It is found mainly in LED lamps with a characteristic “dome” reflector.

— 2G7. Four-pin base, used in the same way as G23 described above — in compact fluorescent lamps with U-shaped bulbs. The difference between such lamps and models with G23, in addition to the number and shape of contacts, also lies in some features of the work.

— R7S. The R7s bases have a paired design: the lamp itself is made elongated, and at its ends there are two contacts recessed into the insulation. Accordingly, in the cartridges, where such a lamp is installed at both ends, there are metal pins that, when installed, reach the contacts. A rather specific type of base, most lamps under R7S are halogen quartz light sources of fairly high power. Therefore, among table lamps, this variant of distribution has not received.

— T5. A miniature two-pin base used primarily for small but bright LEDs. A cartridge for such a base is extremely rare, mainly among rather specific models — in particular, laboratory devices that combine a magnifying glass and a backlight on a movable leg.

The maximum power of the light source allowed for a given lamp.

This parameter has different meanings depending on the light source (see the corresponding paragraph). It is most critical for models with sockets for replaceable light bulbs: the power of the light bulbs used should not exceed the maximum power of the lamp. Otherwise, it will overheat, and the consequences can be very unpleasant - even a fire. In this case, for models with several cartridges, the total power of all installed light sources is indicated. In order to determine the maximum permissible power of an individual light bulb, you need to divide the total limitation by the number of sockets. For example, in a model with 7 “seats” and a limit of 140 W, you can install bulbs of no more than 140/7 = 20 W.

It is also worth recalling that the actual brightness of the light bulb will depend not only on its power, but also on its type. Thus, at the same brightness, “energy-saving” fluorescent lamps have a power 3 to 5 times less than incandescent lamps, and LED light sources - 10 times less. Thus, low permissible power does not interfere with achieving high brightness.

As for table lamps with built-in LEDs, the maximum power for them corresponds to the actual power of the LED unit. You can roughly estimate the capabilities of such a lamp using the above formula - the brightness of the LED corresponds to the brightness of an incandescent lamp with 10 times more power. For example..., if you previously made do with a 60-watt light bulb, an 8-watt LED lamp will most likely be enough for you.

Wattage also determines the energy consumption of the lamp. However, it is not particularly high in table lamps, and in models with a replaceable socket, it also depends not on the maximum power of the lamp itself, but on the characteristics of the actually installed light bulbs.

— Brightness adjustment. Possibility to adjust the brightness of the lamp. The convenience of this function is generally obvious: it allows you to customize the lamp to suit your own preferences and specific situation. For example, for working with printed documents, brighter light may be useful, but for watching a movie on a laptop, the lighting can be dimmed. However, it is worth considering that not all replaceable light bulbs can work properly in lamps with dimmers. Therefore, in models with a cartridge (see “Light source”) this function is rare; and if you buy such a lamp, you should pay special attention to the choice of light sources for it.

— Adjustment of color temperature. The ability to change the color temperature of the light produced by the lamp. For more information about color temperature, see the corresponding paragraph. This adjustment allows you to adjust the glow to a particular situation - for example, a high color temperature is desirable for reading, and a lower color temperature for rest and relaxation. Note that this setting should not be confused with adjusting the color of the glow (see below): in this case we are talking only about changing the overall hue of white light, and not about a full change in color.

— Adjustment of glow color. Ability to change the color of the lamp. Note that this is not just about adjusting the c...olor temperature (see the corresponding paragraph), but about changing the overall color of the glow; many models with this function allow you to produce almost any color from the palette visible to the human eye. This function is not needed when lighting a workplace, but it is very convenient for setting up general lighting and creating a certain atmosphere in the room.

— Shutdown timer. The timer automatically turns off the light after a user-specified time. This option can be useful in many situations, for example, before bed or for those who like to read in bed. The shutdown timer is set for a certain period of time, after which the lamp turns off automatically, which helps save energy and extends the life of the light source.

— Flexible leg. The presence of a flexible leg in the lamp design. The leg is the part that connects the light source to the stand or mount. Unlike a hinged body (see the corresponding paragraph), such a part can be bent anywhere and in any direction. This provides additional convenience when adjusting the position of the lamp: the freedom of movement of the flexible leg is noticeably higher than that of the hinges. True, it is considered less reliable and durable, but in practice a lot depends on the quality of workmanship; and with careful handling, even an inexpensive lamp with a similar feature can “live” for a very long time.

— Hinged body. Lamps with this feature consist of several sections connected by rotating hinges. The specific number of hinges and the design of such cases can be different - from a single rotary mount for connecting the light bulb with the leg to a system of 4 - 5 hinges, which allows you to adjust the position of the lamp within a fairly wide range. Compared to another version of the movable structure - a flexible leg (see the corresponding paragraph), the hinges are more expensive, more limited in mobility and more difficult to adjust. On the other hand, swivel mounts are considered more reliable and durable, and they can also be used in legs of any length.

— Display. The presence of its own screen in the lamp design. To use it for its main purpose in a traditional format (without additional adjustments), a display is not needed. Therefore, this feature is an unambiguous sign that we have a model with advanced functionality. The display most often displays the readings of a clock and a thermometer (see the corresponding paragraphs), but other information may also be provided - for example, the set color temperature, battery charge (if the lamp is self-powered), etc.

- Watch. The presence of its own clock in the lamp design. Theoretically, this could be a pointer dial built into the case, but in practice it is much more common to see watches displayed on their own display (see the corresponding paragraph). Moreover, this function can be supplemented with other capabilities related to timekeeping - for example, an alarm clock, stopwatch and/or timer, or even a calendar.

— Thermometer. The lamp has its own built-in thermometer. As a rule, such a thermometer is electronic, and its readings are displayed on the lamp display (see the corresponding paragraph). This function allows you to control the microclimate in the room, which can be useful from a practical point of view - for example, when adjusting air conditioning or heating.

— USB port. The lamp has a USB port from which you can charge various electronic devices: smartphones, tablets, players, external power banks, etc. The main convenience of this function is that the connector on the lamp is always at hand, while other accessible ports may be located in less convenient places (for example, on the back wall of the system unit under the table). True, the power supply in different models may be different; but this only affects charging speed, not compatibility.

- Wireless charger. A device for wireless charging of smartphones and other gadgets, built directly into the lamp - usually in the stand. This technology works over a short distance, and to use it, the device must be placed directly on a special platform mounted on a stand. Wireless charging is slower than wired charging and is not supported by all gadgets, but it is more convenient (no need to fiddle with plugs) and does not wear out the connectors. In lamps, this function is found mainly among models for study and office (see “Type”); it is also convenient because the platform can be used as a desktop stand for a smartphone - and the device will be charged, and not just lie idle.

- Remote control. Availability of a remote control included with the lamp. This feature is relevant for models with advanced functionality such as color adjustment or color temperature (see the corresponding paragraphs). It is often more convenient to control additional functions from an external remote control, not only because of the possibility of remote control, but also due to the fact that you can place the entire control panel on the remote control and not clutter the lamp body with unnecessary parts.

— Case lighting. The presence of additional lighting in the lamp body. The main role of this function is decorative; it gives the device a stylish appearance and can harmoniously complement the main lighting. In some models, the backlight can even be adjusted by color, although such an option may not be provided for the main light.

— Niche for office. The presence of a special place in the lamp for placing office supplies. Such a niche is usually located in a stand; its dimensions and capabilities may vary. So, the simplest option is a recess designed mainly for pens, pencils and markers. However, more often a more advanced design is used, with specialized “seats” for various items: holders for pens and pencils, shelves for business cards and stickers, trays for paper clips, erasers and other small items, etc. Lamp with a niche for an office, it can be a very good choice for an office or desk, a study place and other similar applications.

The material from which the body and/or lampshade is made.

— Plastic. Inexpensive and at the same time quite practical, thanks to which it is a popular material. Plastic can have any colour and transparency, parts of even complex shapes are easily made from it, plus such products weigh a little. The disadvantage of this option is considered to be relatively low strength; however, in the case of table lamps, it is quite enough for normal use, and even in case of various household "troubles" such as falling from the table to the floor. Plastic as a whole poorly resists scratches — but this point is purely aesthetic, and besides, a lot depends on the specific type of plastic.

— Metal. A common name that combines several types of alloys. It is indicated when the manufacturer, for one reason or another, decided not to specify the composition of the metal used for the lamp. Anyway, such cases and shades are noticeably stronger and more reliable than plastic ones, but they are more expensive and, in most cases, weigh more.

— Steel. Steel can be used in both advanced and relatively inexpensive table lamps. In the first case, the product is often made of "stainless steel" and has a polished surface; in the second, simpler grades of steel with paint or other protective coating can be used. Anyway, this material is durable and cheaper than aluminium, but it also weighs noticeably more.

— Aluminium. This material can be attributed to the pr...emium class. Aluminium combines the strength of steel and the low weight of plastic; in addition, such cases and shades can have a rather stylish and rich appearance, they are great for high-tech lamps. The disadvantage of this material is traditional — a rather high price.

— Glass. A material used primarily in decorative lamps and candle lamps (see "Type"). Glass can be transparent or translucent, have different colours, be complemented by various relief decorations. A similar appearance can be achieved when using plastic, but the glass looks more "representative", and also retains its original appearance for a very long time — thanks to scratch resistance. Such lamps turn out to be heavy, but this can be both a disadvantage and an advantage — a massive body is more stable and creates an additional sense of solidity. But the unequivocal disadvantages of glass lamps can be called fragility and high cost.

— Wood. Another material used in decorative lamps. It is worth noting that the tree not only looks good, but is also quite practical: the strength of such a material is comparable to the characteristics of plastic (and sometimes even higher), and small scratches on it can be completely invisible. However, wooden cases are more difficult to manufacture and much more expensive — so much so that the described advantages do not justify the difference in price. And in style, they fit poorly into the equipment of a modern workplace. Therefore, wood in table lamps is used exclusively as a design material.

— Ceramics. Ceramic gives the luminaire a cozy “homely” look, making it well suited for table lamps and decorative models (see “Type”). The main disadvantage of this material is the fragility and sensitivity to shock. Indeed, many types of ceramics are capable of cracking from a fall or other strong impact, but there are also high-strength varieties; specific properties of the material, usually, are directly related to the price category of the lamp.

— Textile. Textiles are practically not used in cabinets, but are often found in plafonds and lampshades, especially among table floor lamps (see "Type"): the fabric gently scatters the light passing through it and can give it one shade or another.