Shopping·12 min read

Our Fave Lighting Options Under $100

Lighting Options Under $100
Design: theSkimm | Photo: Uncommon Goods, Urban Outfitters
October 20, 2022

Products you buy through our links may earn us a commission. Oh, and if something's out of stock, oops, it was there (and all prices were accurate) at time of publication.

Your humble abode called — it wants an upgrade. One of the easiest ways to go about it? Swapping out some light fixtures. Because a new floor lamp here and a fun string light there can really level up a space. That’s why we’re breaking down all the best affordable lamps on the market right now — from deskside ones for your WFH space to cute and cozy ones for your bedroom. Better light than never.

Desk Lamps

Target

A vintage-inspired task lamp…

Chip and Joanna Gaines for the win. This round-shaped light from their line at Target has an adjustable shade so you can angle it in a way that works best for your space. It has a sleek, minimalist design with a traditional flare, so it’ll fit into any room. Plus, the gold finish adds an extra statement. ($44.99, Target)

Buy it
Target

A trendy globe-shaped desk lamp…

These orb-shaped lights are all over Insta for a reason. They’re simple and add the perfect amount of soft light. This one even comes with USB ports so you can charge your devices while working. It has a fully dimmable range, which makes the perfect reading light too. ($35, Target)

Buy it
Amazon

One with a flexible neck that does it all…

A phone stand, an emergency light source, and a pencil holder in one? Count us in. This deskside companion automatically adjusts the lighting based on the surface you’re using. It charges via a USB cable, which it comes with, so you don’t have to worry about any extra cords getting in the way of your space. Psst..it has three different color modes and would make the best unexpected gift. ($12.98+, Amazon)

Buy it
Urban Outfitters

The cutest boba light for anywhere you want a little extra joy…

Fact: You can never have a bad day if boba is involved. So why not give yourself the gift of this absolutely adorable light? It’s petite enough to fit into the palm of your hand and is battery-operated — so you won’t have to worry about rearranging your entire outlet situation to use it. Sips tea. ($29, Urban Outfitters)

Buy it
Honeyandivy via Etsy

A 3D-printed table lamp that pays homage to our favorite summer treat…

A lamp inspired by soft serve = a need, not a want. This wavy lamp has a warm glow and a long cord with an on-off switch that makes it easy to operate. The best part? It’s sustainably made with a nontoxic thermoplastic that’s completely compostable. I scream, you scream, we all scream over this adorable light. ($69.99, Honeyandivy via Etsy)

Buy it
AgDecors via Etsy

An adjustable, whimsical lamp for all the book lovers out there…

If you’re a bedtime reader, you need this. The base bends in a way that’ll perfectly nestle books, journals, and even an e-reader. The design makes it look like the lamp is a cute little person with legs. It’s giving Pixar vibes in the best way. ($72.75, AgDecors via Etsy)

Buy it

Floor Lamps

Wayfair

A 63-inch one that has extra storage…

Short on space = having to find a functional console that’s actually cute. This pull-chain lamp has a large shade and three spacious shelves for your tchotchkes and bits-and-bobs. It comes in a variety of color options but we’d be lying if we said the baby pink one wasn’t calling our name. Get ready for your next shelfie. ($58.99+, Wayfair)

Buy it
Amazon

A midcentury option that’ll get the job done…

Sometimes you just need a simple tripod lamp. This minimal wooden one has a basic linen shade and three legs for extra stability. Add it anywhere you need more light in a pinch. ($76.99, Amazon)

Buy it
Amazon

A light source that doubles as a side table…

The best way to save money? Buying a two-in-one piece. This slender lamp has a built-in side table for extra functionality. The base is made of a weighted marble, so you don’t need to worry about tipping. We suggest putting it next to a large chair for the ultimate cozy setup. ($88.99, Amazon)

Buy it
Overstock

A modern, arched floor lamp that’s simple and affordable…

Endlessly searching and scrolling and still haven’t found something that’ll work? We feel you. This timeless option from Overstock has a curved base and a large shade. It also has a foot pedal switch, which means you won’t have to lift a finger to turn it on. And that price = too good. Add to cart ASAP. ($48.18, Overstock)

Buy it
Bed Bath & Beyond

A sleek spotlight lamp…

Whether you’re heading back to school and need a bright option for your space or you just want something dependable, this updated version is a great start. It comes in three calming matte shades (blue, gray, and white), and the two tapered plastic shades are screaming ‘let there be light.’ ($39, Bed Bath & Beyond)

Buy it
TroyGalleria via Etsy

An LED lamp that’ll add fun colors to any room…

Place this one in front of a wall and immediately transform your space. It comes with an easy-to-operate remote so you can control the color settings based on your mood. It’s giving modern art museum energy in the comfort of your own home. ($63.67, TroyGalleria via Etsy)

Buy it

Bedside Lamps

Wayfair

A whimsical ceramic lamp set…

This pair of monochromatic lights are design-forward without the hefty price tag. At just under 9.5 inches they’re the perfect bedside companion. With a range of fun colors, visitors will definitely be asking ‘Where’d ya snag those?’ ($36.99+, Wayfair)

Buy it
Honeyandivy via Etsy

An Instagrammable squiggle lamp…

Even if you don’t need this, you need this. This chic lamp was inspired by abstract organic shapes and squiggly lines. It’s handmade in Portland and 3D-printed with compostable plastic. The best pieces = the ones that make you smile just looking at them. Run, don’t walk. ($59.99, Honeyandivy via Etsy)

Buy it
Urban Outfitters

A mini glass table lamp that comes in four funky shades…

Buy one in every color for the cutest setup. The frosty glass will emit a warm glow and you can easily wipe them clean. Joy = sparked. ($49, Urban Outfitters)

Buy it
Amazon

A minimalist option with a wooden base…

This one comes in 12 different color combinations and has a comforting glow. It has a simple on-off switch that makes it easy to operate too. Sweet dreams. ($15.99+, Amazon)

Buy it
Target

A brass geometric table lamp to add some extra flair…

Because who says you need artwork to make a statement? This wired light adds a modern design to any space. And with a simple white lampshade, the look is ultra crisp. Love at first light. ($20, Target)

Buy it

Other fun options

Ban.do

A croissant lamp that’s made of an actual croissant…

For all the foodies out there. This one is made from real bread with an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal resin to protect it. It’s about 5 inches, so it’ll fit in the palm of your hand. And it has 50,000-hour LED lights inside, so it’ll provide the softest glow. PS: you’re gonna need to power this one with AA batteries, which aren’t included. Your nightlight just got the sweetest upgrade. ($88, Ban.do)

Buy it
Amazon

Warm globe string lights to add some sparkle to your space…

These LED string lights come with 100 dimmable bulbs. You can choose from eight different effects from slow fades to twinkles. And because the lights are made of a translucent plastic and kept at a lower temperature, they’re safer to use and won’t break like glass. Your bedroom is calling. It wants you to buy these. ($18.99+, Amazon)

Buy it
Amazon

A sunset lamp to set the mood…

This projector light shines a bright orb of color into any space. You can pick from a classic orange hue or a cool toned rainbow one. It has an 180 degree rotation, so you can angle it in a way that works for your space. Just place it in front of a bare wall for the ultimate aura light vibes. Plus, if you have a wall that doesn’t have any artwork, this will make for the perfect colorful statement. ($16.99+, Amazon)

Buy it
Uncommon Goods

An LED gummy bear light…

Yep, you read that right. This candy-shaped light comes in four punchy colors. Pick from hot pink, green, purple, and blue. All you have to do is squeeze the light to turn it on and off. Plus, there’s a one hour timer option. It charges with a micro-USB cord and will provide colored, ambient light to any space. Your kiddos’ playroom? It needs these. ($40, Uncommon Goods)

Buy it

Live Smarter

Sign up for the Daily Skimm email newsletter. Delivered to your inbox every morning and prepares you for your day in minutes.