Choosing the right lamp size for reading is not mainly about style. It is about getting enough light onto the page, placing that light at the correct height, and controlling glare so text stays crisp over long sessions. From a manufacturer’s perspective, the “best size” is the one that matches your table dimensions, seating posture, and reading area, while delivering a stable output in the brightness range that lighting experts commonly recommend for reading.

Start With the Target Light on the Page

A practical way to size a reading lamp is to think in two layers:
(1) illuminance on the reading surface and (2) lamp output that can reliably achieve it.

In task areas such as desks, recommended maintained light levels are often listed around 40 footcandles for office desk work, which is roughly 430 lux (since 1 fc ≈ 10.764 lux). That level is a useful reference point for “comfortable detail work” like reading and writing.

For most table reading setups, a lamp that can deliver about 400–800 lumens gives you enough headroom to reach comfortable page brightness without pushing the lamp too close to the book.

The 3 Key Size Dimensions That Decide Comfort

Lamp Height (most important)
For a typical reading table, choose a lamp where the light source can sit high enough to spread evenly, but not so high that it lights your eyes directly. A practical target is:

• Overall lamp height: 45–65 cm (18–26 in) for most reading tables

• If your table is taller or your chair sits low, move toward the higher end to keep the light angle comfortable.

Shade Diameter (controls spill and glare)
Shade size should match the reading zone and table width:

• 25–35 cm (10–14 in) shade diameter works well for most reading tables

• Narrow tables or side tables typically feel better with 20–28 cm (8–11 in) shades to avoid visual bulk and excessive spill.

Base Footprint (stability + usable tabletop area)
A reading lamp should be stable when you adjust it, but not steal the whole table:

• Base diameter 12–18 cm (5–7 in) fits most tables

• If you use an adjustable arm, choose a slightly heavier base to prevent tipping.

Quick Sizing Table You Can Use Immediately

These ranges align with common reading brightness guidance and typical task-area targets.

Color Temperature and Beam Control Affect “Size” More Than People Expect

Even when the lamp’s physical size is correct, the light quality can make it feel wrong. For reading, neutral to cool white light in the 4000K–5000K range is often recommended for clarity and focus.
If you want one lamp to serve both daytime work and calmer night reading, choose a lamp with multiple CCT modes so you can switch warmer in the evening without reducing brightness too far.

Also pay attention to glare control:

• A deeper shade or diffuser reduces direct view of the LED emitter, lowering discomfort and helping you keep the lamp closer if needed.

• Adjustable heads or arms let you aim light onto the page instead of into your eyes, which often improves comfort more than simply buying a larger lamp.

How to Place the Lamp After You Pick the Size

Good placement lets a correctly sized lamp perform at its best:

• Put the lamp slightly to the side of your reading hand to reduce shadows across the page.

• Aim the brightest part of the beam at the center of your book, not the top edge.

• If you wear progressive lenses, position the lamp a bit higher so your head posture stays natural.

If you still feel eye fatigue, the issue is often uneven brightness or flicker sensitivity rather than “more watts.” Prioritize stable output and optical comfort features designed for long sessions.

Why MINGKEDA Is a Practical Choice for Reading Table Lamps

When you’re selecting reading lamps for consistent performance across projects, what matters is repeatable quality: stable light output, reliable electronics, and consistent assembly. MINGKEDA covers multiple table-lamp categories relevant to reading setups, including Eye-Care Desk Lamps, Task Lamps, bedside lamps, and cordless rechargeable table lamps, which makes it easier to standardize styles while adapting sizes to different rooms.

From a supply standpoint, MINGKEDA also presents manufacturing-side strengths such as a broad product lineup and certification coverage including CCC, with some models additionally carrying UL, CB, and CE—helpful when lamps are deployed across different markets or compliance requirements.

A Simple Checklist Before You Finalize the Size

• Your table depth is enough to keep the lamp at least a forearm’s distance from the reading area.

• Lamp height places the light above the book without shining into your eyes.

• Shade diameter matches the reading zone, not just the room style.

• Output supports about 400–800 lumens with dimming for flexibility.

• Color temperature includes a 4000K–5000K option for crisp reading.

If you match these points, the “right size” becomes predictable: your lamp will feel bright enough, balanced on the table, and comfortable for long reading sessions—without overlighting the room.