9 Best Lamps for Artists and Crafts in 2024

By Robin Owens 8 days ago, Additional Gear

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Desk and floor lamps for artists to create everything: arts, crafts, illustration, miniatures

best Lamps for artists
Micomlan Architect Desk Lamp
micomlan architect desk lamp for artists
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OttLite LED Soft Touch Desk Lamp
ottlite led soft touch desk lamp for artists
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HaFundy LED Desk Lamp
hafundy led desk lamp for artists
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XOLLOZ Half-Moon Desk Lamp
xolloz half-moon desk lamp for artists
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White Crown LED Desk Lamp
white crown led desk lamp for artists
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BenQ ScreenBar Halo LED Monitor Light
benq screenbar halo led monitor lamp for artists
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OttLite LED Floor Lamp
ottlite led floor lamp for artists
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Dott Arts LED Desk Lamp
dott arts led desk lamp for artists
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KONCEPT Z-Bar Floor Lamp
koncept z-bar floor lamp for artists
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Professionals like me know well that lighting is the most crucial component of every studio setup for painting. The best lamp for artists can create more convenient working conditions, increasing visibility and reducing eye fatigue. Moreover, the lighting is important for setting the appropriate working mood.

I researched more than 60 desk lamps and selected my favorite models in various styles and prices. I focused on the lamps with built-in LEDs and LED bulbs as they are durable and even, in some cases, allow adjusting color temperature. The presence of power switches and the ability to adjust the brightness levels were among my preferences.

My Recommendation: Micomlan Architect Desk Lamp

logoI drew attention to the Micomlan Architect Desk Lamp because of its flexible design - it is very easy to change the position both vertically and horizontally. This lamp allows adjusting the 5 levels of brightness and color temperatures step by step. Stepless dimming (20% - 100%) and stepless tempering (3000K - 6500K) can be done by pressing the panel for some time.

1. For Large Workspaces: Micomlan Architect Desk Lamp

micomlan architect daylight lamp for artists

I was looking for the lighting equipment that should not be attached to the wall and cast the indirect lighting, which is favorable when working in front of the screen. In this case, I rather need a little extra ambient light than direct task lighting. I like the versatility of this lamp, as it is easy to cast the light upward.

Another plus that makes this model one of the best lamps for artists is that the controls for the side/up lights and the main task/down light are separate. Besides, they are easy to adjust, so you can set the desired brightness and color temperature. I also like the 3500K temperature, and step 3 brightness, for both main and side lights.

Intuitive installation is another positive feature of this light for painting – you only need to clamp it to the working surface. But the highlight of this model is its durability. Although it does not weigh much, the construction is quite sturdy and well-built. Undoubtedly, it can serve for many years without serious problems.

Drawbacks

  • The ambient light is really amazing but it is too bright, which means it is impractical. It would be much better if the light were dimmer to create the desired mood.
  • Not very affordable

Specs

  • Type: Desk lamp with remote control
  • Dimensions: 39.37"D x 2.36"W x 28.23"H
  • Brightness levels: 5 levels, 100-20%
  • Color temperature: 3000K-6500K
  • Mounting: Clamp on desk lamp
  • Wattage: ‎24W

2. Last Up to 40,000 Hours: OttLite Desk Lamp

ottlite led soft touch daylight lamp for artists

This lamp provides perfect illumination for your working space with the desired level of brightness. The main advantage of this unit is that I can handle it intuitively. But unlike other similar models, it does not contain the overwhelming number of buttons that actually never come in handy. It is a lightweight but is quite stable.

I positioned this lamp on my desk setting it right behind my two PCs. This is very convenient as I just need to turn the lamp on and pull it down whenever I need some extra light. There are three different brightness levels you can choose from according to your needs.

Drawbacks

  • The base is a bit bulky.
  • The button for adjusting settings has high sensitivity, so you are likely to accidentally turn the lamp off very often.
  • Occasionally you have to deal with tangled and frayed cords.

Specs

  • Type: Desk lamp
  • Dimensions: 6.25"D x 6.25"W x 13.5"H
  • Brightness levels: 3
  • Color temperature: Natural daylight
  • Mounting: Tabletop

3. Power-off Memory: HaFundy Desk Lamp

hafundy led daylight lamp for artists

One of the reasons why this model can be named the best desk lamp for artist is the ability to adjust the level of brightness according to the situation. Besides, it is easy to change the angle, from which the lamp should illuminate the areas. A sturdy and lightweight construction is another reason to buy this model.

In the dim mode, this light for workbench provides as much light as needed to relax and read a book in the evenings. I choose the brighter settings for a more intensive workflow. This model is fitted with clamps, with which it is easy to attach the lamp to the edge of the table saving space.

Drawbacks

  • The USB adapter has a mediocre quality.
  • The switch has an inconvenient location, it is almost right after the spot where the cord exits the lamp, this means that you have to reach the edge of the desk each time when you need to adjust the settings.
  • The clamps are flimsy. If you often install and remove the lamp, the clamps will break quickly.

Specs

  • Type: Desk lamp
  • Dimensions: 16.2"D x 5.1"W x 2.36"H
  • Brightness levels: 10
  • Color temperature: White light, Daylight, Warm light
  • Mounting: Clamp on desk lamp

4. Illuminates Without Shadows: XOLLOZ Desk Lamp

xolloz half-moon daylight lamp for artists

This is the best daylight desk lamp for manicurists, brow and lash-makers, and tattoo artists, as it casts no shadow. However, this model is also perfect for performing other tasks.

Besides, you can easily adjust the hue of the light and the brightness. These LED lights for photography helped me take high-quality shots of my art and illustrations.

In my opinion, this lamp has a high quality and the level of brightness it offers is comfortable for me. Simple setup is another plus of this model – I needed only several minutes to put it to work.

Drawbacks

  • The plug on the side is not firmly in place, so the lamp begins to flicker or even turn off if moved slightly.
  • Some users complain about the crooked light bases. Regardless of the position of the lighting unit, one side is always crooked.
  • The construction is big and bulky and for home users who highly appreciate the portability, this is a serious drawback.
  • I was disappointed to find out the power cord is not replaceable and cannot be disconnected for more convenient storage.

Specs

  • Type: Desk lamp
  • Dimensions: ‎29.1"D x 5.1"W x 14.4"H
  • Brightness levels: 0-100%
  • Color temperature: 2700-5600K
  • Mounting: Tabletop
  • Wattage: 48W

5. Auto-Off Timer: White Crown Desk Lamp

white crown led daylight lamp for artists

This lamp offers five different light tones, so I can easily adjust the lighting according to my needs. It is easy to adjust the brightness by sliding your finger across the dimmer on the base. I also like its sleek design and bendable arm that can be moved horizontally or vertically.

I acquired two lights – for my home office and a cadenza, as the minimalist style of this model suits any interior. Besides, you can set a 30 or 45-minute timer that will turn the light off if you fall asleep after reading. Moreover, the manufacturers care about your eyes making a design that reduces eye fatigue after long hours of work.

Drawbacks

  • I would appreciate it if the lamp was brighter. But considering the price, it is quite a good lamp.
  • The arm is not so flexible, but with more use, it becomes not so stiff.
  • This is not a portable light that you can take around, as to turn it on, you need to plug it into the wall.

Specs

  • Type: Desk lamp
  • Dimensions: ‎1.57"D x 4.3"W x 16.3"H
  • Brightness levels: 10
  • Color temperature: 5 color modes, from Cold to Warm light
  • Mounting: Tabletop
  • Wattage: 6W

6. Additional Light for Your Monitor: BenQ ScreenBar Halo

benq screenbar halo daylight lamp for artists

The variety of features this screenbar offers makes it the best daylight desk lamp for artists. It perfectly suits my 34' curved monitor meeting all my lighting needs. I like that this model has a sleek design and virtually takes no space on my table.

I had no trouble setting this additional light for streaming. After watching a short BenQ setup video, everything becomes pretty clear. Another thing I like is that this model has many color options and temperatures, including a backlight. It not only adds aesthetics but also reduces eye fatigue.

The light can be turned on or off either with or without the light bar. When working at night, being able to control the temperature of light is really beneficial.

Drawbacks

  • High price tag, but it is really worth it.
  • I feel that the variety of options for changing the color modes from the backlighting is restricted
  • The 'rear end' of the light bar does not weigh much, so the light bar fails to sit at the needed angle while mounted, sliding a bit downward and covering the screen a bit.

Specs

  • Type: Monitor lamp with remote control
  • Dimensions: ‎3.73"D x 19.7"W x 3.82"H
  • Color temperature: Cold, Nature and Warm light
  • Mounting: Hanging on a monitor
  • Wattage: 6.5W

7. Excellent Color Reproduction: OttLite Floor Lamp

ottlite led floor daylight lamp for artists

Putting together the Ottlite floor lamp was a breeze. After removing the red plastic tabs, I had no trouble screwing together all the parts securely. The base is quite weighty, so it is also easy to attach to the construction. I absolutely like that regardless of the position of the lamp head, the body remains stable and sturdy.

It is also great that the lamp has three levels of brightness, which can be adjusted according to your needs. As the lamp head is quite large, it can illuminate a good-sized area creating perfect lighting conditions. This model will be a great addition to your video LED lights. Besides, it has a bendable construction, meaning that you can set it high or low, left or right.

Drawbacks

  • Surprisingly, the turn-on function is difficult for activating.
  • Too short for setting up in the living room, for example.
  • Pricey.

Specs

Type: Floor lamp

Dimensions: ‎11"D x 8.2"W x 64"H

Brightness levels: 3

Color temperature: 5000K

Wattage: 13W

8. Sleep Night Light: Dott Arts Desk Lamp

dott arts led daylight lamp for artists

Stable and well-made construction makes this unit the best table lamp for artists and illustrators. I just need to make a light touch to turn the lamp on or choose one of three brightness levels, which are just right.

The main benefits of this model are easiness of use, different light colors, and intensities to every taste and requirement. Although this lamp is not big and does not take up much space on the table, it provides enough illumination.

It does not weigh much, so you can easily move it and fold it for more convenient transportation. This lamp will be a great addition to your video lighting kit.

Drawbacks

  • I was disappointed with the lamp’s cord. It is USB on one end but a pin type from the end where it goes into the lamp. You’ll need a USB male to USB female extension to achieve a wider reach, but most people won’t consider it to be a problem.
  • The USB ports do not work at all. The connected devices lose charge, which is really a pity.
  • Actually, the lamp’s height is closer to 15".

Specs

  • Type: Desk lamp
  • Dimensions: ‎14.92"D x 4.45"W x 1.85"H
  • Brightness levels: 3
  • Color temperature: 5 modes, from Cold to Warm
  • Mounting: Tabletop
  • Wattage: 8W

9. 50,000 Hours Lifespan: KONCEPT Z-Bar

koncept z-bar floor daylight lamp for artists

KONCEPT Z-Bar is light and stable, so it is often regarded as the best floor lamp for artists. I’ve installed it a bit to the left and behind the chair, I use to draw and read in. Besides, the LED portion of the lamp is flexible, so I can adjust its position according to the tasks I’m going to complete. Besides, controlling the brightness is as easy as running the finger along the lamp.

Other highlights of this model are minimalist design, top-level materials, and clean lines. I also appreciate a handy dimmer, which is extremely usable throughout the range. Whether you prefer a nightlight-soft glow, a brilliant bright stripe of task light, or any level in between, there is definitely a tone you’d like.

Drawbacks

  • I actually purchased the "warm white" version, but the light it emits is rather neutral than warm.
  • Some users claim that after a while the lamp head begins to sag/go limp and it is impossible to tighten it back up.
  • The price of this lamp is definitely too high. The product lacks innovations that could be worth so much money.

Specs

  • Type: Floor lamp
  • Dimensions: ‎44"D x 10"W x 32.7"H
  • Color temperature: 3500K Warm or 4500K Cool
  • Wattage: 9.5W

What Features Matter?

I selected the top-level models in various price ranges. As people’s tastes are different, I chose samples of both classic and modern styles. Besides, it is important to consider the tasks you need this extra light unit for. For example, the lash makers are likely to search for the best magnifying lamp with a backlight.

I also paid attention to:

LED illumination. LED lamps do not consume much energy, so they are environmentally friendly and really economical, more durable, and do not get overheated, as well as come with a controller for brightness and color temperature.

lamp for artists color temperature

Color temperature. The newest lamps emit rays with colors from 2700K to 6000K. 2700K is warm light, 3000K - neutral, and 4000K is cool white. Daylight color ranges from 5000K to 6000K.

I advise choosing a model with an upper color temperature threshold of 5000K - 6000K. This is a convenient temperature for painting. Lower or higher values may create too blue or too orange light so this lamp can be used for other tasks.

Multiple brightness settings. The best lamps for drawing or any other artistic tasks have features for adjusting the brightness for more versatility as lighting conditions are variable.

lamp for artists cri

CRI or color rendering index. It defines the ability of a light source to determine the color of an object. Index 100 is inherent only in natural light. Nowadays, industrial manufacturers are making attempts to create artificial light sources that have a value close to 100. Some of them have managed to create CRI>95. However, CRI>90 is also a good value.

A power switch on the lamp itself, instead of on the power cord. If the power switch is on the cord, users may struggle to reach it. This problem often appears when the lamp is positioned at the back of the desk and the cord hangs beneath it.

Is It Safe to Use Lamps while Creating Art?

lamp for artists safety rules

While any artwork looks better under natural light, direct sunlight can only harm it. Illumination defines the texture, hue, and longevity of the art piece. If the picture is exposed to sunlight, the colors can fade and the material deteriorates.

It is preferable to use the artificial lights that are delivered within studio lighting kits, for example. The brightness of a light unit should be three times higher than the room lighting. The most optimal color temperature is 5000K, as it ensures soft illumination that makes colors vibrant and crisper.

In my opinion, LEDs are best for art lighting as their color rendering index is high. A CRI of 90 or higher ensures crisp and clear colors.

Follow these simple rules to create a safe work environment:

  • Choose the right wattage of bulbs to eliminate overheating and potential fire hazards.
  • It is important to examine the lamp cords for any damage. Frayed cords can lead to a real disaster.
  • The lamp should be installed far from flammable materials and be properly ventilated.
  • With the help of lampshades, you can easily diffuse light and remove glare.
  • Do not forget to turn off the lamp to save energy and decrease fire risks.

Conclusion

Desk lamps are crucial for artists as these units enhance visibility, reduce eye fatigue, and render colors. Thanks to amazing color rendering indices and energy-efficient LED bulbs, these units provide consistent and flattering illumination for all sorts of artists. By purchasing a top-level desk lamp you make a considerable investment in the creation of a convenient workspace for crafting real masterpieces.

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