The Best Architect Lamps for 2022
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Best Architect Lamp
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These versatile lamps are a must-have desk accessory for both architecture students and professionals. To help you select which one is best for you, I have outlined the various features below along with a list of the best architect lamps currently available.
UPDATED: February 24, 2022.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the AmazLit Architect Lamp because it features a three-axis design for a range of positions and is equipped with energy-efficient LEDs for multiple brightness and color options.
The world of architecture has changed dramatically over the past few decades. Drafting boards and drafting tables have been replaced with multiple computer monitors and drawing tablets.
However, while times have changed in terms of how architects draw, the simple lamp, drafting pencil, and architect’s scale will always be essential. We architects still need to review printed drawings and these lamps shine a light on the potential problems with a project. Also, these lamps aren't just for the office, the timeless design and versatility are just as useful at home.
What is an architect lamp?
A defining feature of an architect lamp and what distinguishes it from other desk lamps is the swing arm design, also known as a balanced arm or a floating arm lamp. It consists of two or three points of articulation that are connected by arms that support the lamp head that rotates on its axis. The lowest arm is connected to a desk clamp or base with a pivot point that allows for further movement.
The specific design varies by manufacturer, however, gravity is counteracted by springs which keep it held in position until it is moved again. Other designs use friction or counterweights to keep the lamp in place.
Benefits
Traditionally, a desk clamp was used to keep the lamp in place because a drafting table is sloped. A standard desk lamp would just slide off the table. However, since drafting tables are becoming much less common lamps with bases are now being used more often.
Clamps can be placed on shelves and tables to offer placement flexibility. The clamp helps to maximize your desktop space because it does not require a spot for a lamp base. This feature also makes it desirable for use as a bedside light, since it can clamp to a shelf or headboard.
All of the arm articulations combine to create a lamp that has almost unlimited positioning options which makes it great for drawing or reading. The ability to position the light exactly where it is needed is essential for doing detailed work.
Spring-Assisted Lamp with Desk Clamp
Depending on your needs there are several important features when selecting a light:
Materials
Most of these lamps are constructed from plastic and metal components. The higher-end models will typically use more metal elements as they tend to last longer and offer superior durability. The most important element that should be metal is the table clamp which is subjected to a lot of stresses from the cantilevering structure of the lamp.
Lighting Types
Traditionally, architect lamps used incandescent bulbs which worked fine but consumed large amounts of electricity and didn’t last long. In recent years LED's have become the standard because of the low energy use. On average, LEDs consume 80% less energy than conventional incandescent bulbs. This is particularly important for a desk lamp because that energy efficiency translates into less heat gain, which keeps the work area cooler.
Since you are always moving it by grabbing the lamp head, another nice feature of LEDs is that they keep it cool. When using incandescent bulbs it can cause the shield to become extremely hot, even to the point of causing burns.
In addition, most of these LED bulbs offer a long life span of up to 50,000 hours. That translates to over 17 years of use at eight hours per day!
Replaceable vs. Permanent Lights
Many modern lamps feature a permanent design, meaning the bulb cannot be easily changed for a different one. As described above, given the life of LEDs this should be an issue since it will likely outlast the lamp itself. However, if the bulb is a standard replaceable fixture this does give you the option to use an aftermarket efficient LED bulb instead of an incandescent.
Color Temperature
The color temperature is essentially the color output of the light and is measured in Kelvins, represented by the symbol K. Color temperatures over 5000K have a bluish light and are referred to as "cool colors". Lower color temperatures at around 3000K are known as "warm colors". Depending on the time of day or project you are working on, you may prefer one color temperature over another.
Lighting Modes
The more advanced lamps will allow you to set different lighting modes to adjust the light to suit your desired preferences, which can change throughout the day. This can include the brightness and color temperature. It is a helpful feature, for example, I personally prefer warmer colors at night and color colors during the day to match the sun.
You may also see a “stepless” dimming function which allows for a smooth brightness adjustment that is less jarring to your eyes. Another helpful feature that some units offer is a memory function that remembers the previous settings when you turn the lamp back on.
Automatic Off
Some models feature a timer that automatically shut-offs of turns on the light after a set time. This is great if you are using the lamp as a bedside light so it shuts off on its own. Not only does this help when you forget to turn it off but it also helps to reduce energy use.
USB Ports
Some lamps come with a built-in USB port, typically located in the base. This is helpful for charging phones and other devices. Since charging cords are often quite short, it helps to be able to easily plug into the lamp base.
Cord Length
A simple thing, but noting how long of a cord you need to reach from your desk to the nearest outlet is important. The standard length is around six feet.
Now, on to the individual products. Below, I’ve compiled a list of the top models available. Each unit has been assigned a key feature that makes it particularly noteworthy and has been broken down according to its essential functions to help you make an informed selection.
So here is my list of The Best Architect Lamps for 2022.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: AmazLit Architect Lamp
The AmazLit architect lamp offers the ability to adjust both the brightness and color temperature.
Features variable color hue options from 3,000K up to 5,500K.
Equipped with stepless dimming brightness that is easy on the eyes.
Includes a memory function that keeps the last lighting setting.
Features a three-axis arm design that allows for a range of placement options.
Includes a 10 to 40-minute automatic delay-off feature that makes it great for nighttime use.
Equipped with a metal mounting clamp that includes silicone pads to prevent damage to the desktop.
Uses energy-efficient LEDs that will last up to 50,000 hours.
Runner-up: ENOCH Architect Lamp
The ENOCH lamp features a swing arm made of powder-coated metal for long-lasting durability and corrosion resistance.
Equipped with LED bulbs for a long-lasting operation of up to 50,000 hours.
Offers ten brightness settings for a range of applications.
Includes three different color temperature settings to suit the time of day or task.
Features a metal clamp with a soft foot pad for mounting to desks, tables, and shelves up to 2.2 inches thick.
Features a spring-assisted three-axis arm design that allows for a range of placement options.
Uses a USB plug so it can be placed in a variety of locations (outlet adapter included).
Best Aluminum Option: BYB E430 Architect Lamp
The BYB E430 lamp is made from premium aircraft-grade aluminum alloy with a modern brushed finish.
Equipped with a light guide panel that is specially designed to stop light flicker and glare.
Features four different lighting modes for a range of applications and a memory function.
Equipped with six dimming levels for a customizable lighting setup.
Features a rotating base with a double-hinged arm for multiple positioning options.
Equipped with LED bulbs for a long-lasting operation of up to 50,000 hours.
Also available in black (BYB E476).
Best Value: JUKSTG Architect Lamp
The JUKSTG lamp is equipped with touch-sensitive controls for a modern and sleek look.
Includes an arm that rotates 180 degrees.
Offers seven brightness settings for a range of options.
Includes a USB port for charging phones and other devices.
Features a 60-minute automatic shut-off.
Equipped with four lighting modes: study, relax, reading, and sleep.
Best Premium Option: BenQ Architect Lamp
The BenQ lamp features a built-in ambient light sensor that automatically detects the illumination of the room and then can adjust the brightness.
Equipped with LED bulbs for a long-lasting operation of up to 50,000 hours.
Includes a knob on the top of the lamp head that adjusts the color temperature between warm and cool hues.
Features a lamp head with a ball joint for easy moving and positioning.
Equipped with torque springs and friction control to keep the light in place once it has been moved.
Features a design that offers a lighting coverage area for a range of tasks.
Available in a range of color options.
Best Slim Head Design: Phive Architect Lamp
The Phive lamp features a unique slim head design that has a modern look that doesn’t take up a lot of space.
Features a brightness adjustment that remembers its previous setting.
Uses LED bulbs for a long-lasting operation of up to 50,000 hours.
Equipped with a lamp head that can turn up to 180 degrees for a range of placement options.
Features metal arms for durability and rigidity.
Equipped with a clamp that can attach to a table or desk up to 2.36 inches thick.
Best Classic Design: Globe Electric 12641 Architect Lamp
The Globe Electric lamp features a timeless design that goes with a range of home and office interior designs.
Features a spring-assisted arm that allows for easy movement and precise placement options.
Features a metal clamp for mounting to desks, tables, and shelves up to two inches thick.
Comes with an energy-efficient 10 Watt LED replaceable bulb.
Available in black, white, and rose colors.
Equipped with a six-foot power cord.
Best Compact Design: Lampat Desk Lamp
The Lampat lamp features a compact modern design that uses a touch control panel.
Equipped with an LED light that offers an energy-efficient and long-lasting design.
Features four lighting modes to suit the particular work area needs.
Includes five brightness levels to customize it to the work being done.
Equipped with a rotating and articulating swing arm that uses friction to keep it in place.
Features a convenient automatic shut-off setting that activates after one hour.
Includes a convenient USB charging port.
Best Color Options: LEPOWER Architect Lamp
The LEPOWER lamp offers the ability to use a desk clamp or a base for a range of desk locations.
Equipped with a metal lampshade and base for long-lasting durability.
Features a spring-assisted design that allows for easy movement and precise placement options.
Available in a range of color options to suit your style and interior design.
Note: the bulb is not included. Uses a 4W to 6W LED or a 20W to 40W incandescent bulb.
Best Budget Option: Boston Harbor Architect Lamp
The Boston Harbor lamp features a simple, classic design that doesn’t take up too much desk space at 26 inches tall.
Equipped with a rotary on and off switch located on the top of the lamp head for quick and easy access.
Uses four springs to keep the lamp in the same position it is placed.
Features an all-black color scheme to go with most desk decor.
Supported by a base that has a rotating connection for 360-degree positioning.
Uses a standard 60 Watt A19 bulb.
Note: bulb is not included.
I hope this list of the best architect lamps has been helpful. If I left one out that you think is important, let me know in the comments below.
Thanks for reading, see also my posts on:
The Best Drafting Chairs
The Best Drafting Tables
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
