Ever yearned for the invigorating vibe of a sunny day, even in the midst of winter gloom? Introduce yourself to the enchantment of light therapy lamps.
Explore how light therapy goes beyond just lighting up a room, bringing a whole new level of well-being into your life.Deciding on at-home light therapy can be overwhelming with numerous features to consider. To help, we’ve compiled the top 10 sunlamp and light box options available.
By the end of this article, you should have all the information you need to choose the right one for you. Let’s dive in!
CHLLEN Light Therapy Lamp
Philips SmartSleep Lamp
Carex Day-Light Lamp
Sunrise Sensations Lamp
Erligpowht Light Therapy Lamp
BOXelite Light Therapy Lamp
Lavish Home Floor Lamp
Carex Sunlite Lamp
Verilux Light Therapy Lamp
SUXIO Light Therapy Lamp
CHLLEN UV-Free Light Therapy Lamp
CHLLEN Light Therapy Lamp
Right off the bat, the CHLLEN lamp ticks 2 important boxes: it produces artificial sunlight at 10,000 lux and it’s UV-free. Combine this with its sleek and minimal design, and you get a light box that’s easy to use and even easier to store away.
The CHLLEN’s light level is generally regarded as the best light level because it balances brightness against comfort. The UV-free aspect should be fairly obvious: we want artificial light that doesn’t risk giving us sunburn!
Its functionality includes a 30-minute timer, which is enough light exposure per session.
As such, you just need to turn it on, set the timer, and sit back and relax. Although a timer isn’t completely necessary, it saves you from having to keep an eye on your session time yourself.
Design-wise, the CHLLEN looks like a tablet. At 0.5” x 3” x 4” and 1.3 lbs., it’s small and light enough to tuck away in a bag.
Considering it has a rechargeable battery, it’s ideal for taking on the go wherever you might need it.
Its functionality is super simple, too. It has a stand so you can put it on a desk or table, and the frosted light means it’s not too harsh when in use.
Also, you can rotate the stand up to 180 degrees, giving you flexibility in positioning it.
There are 3 buttons on the front: the on/off switch, and a button each for strong and weak light.
In terms of downsides, there isn’t anything major. It would be nice if it had an adjustable timer – some models have timers that range from 10 to 90 minutes.
But this really isn’t a massive issue, as you can just manually turn it off if you want a shorter session.
Pros
- The compact design makes it easy to carry around
- Super easy to use
- Adjustable stand means you can set it up anywhere
Cons
- More flexibility over the timer would be useful but isn’t necessary
Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light
Philips SmartSleep Wake-Up Light
If you want a sun lamp that offers slightly more gentle colors and light, the Philips SmartSleep might be the model for you.
Along with being a light box, it includes an alarm clock, FM radio, and a range of other features.
The Philips SmartSleep is a decent all-round bedside sun lamp. It has a large sun-colored display that includes a clock and radio screen.
Although the display is typically yellow, it cycles through the colors of sunrise and sunset.
It’s worth noting, though, that the SmartSleep only has a display of 300 lux. While this is much less than the CHLLEN, it’s not designed to be a light therapy lamp in the same way.
Instead, as the name suggests, it’s meant to ease you into and out of sleep. It doesn’t need to be as bright to do this because it simulates natural sunlight.
Despite only reaching 300 lux, it has 20 brightness settings, giving you precise control over the display.
There are also 5 wake-up sounds, such as birds sounds, which can make the process feel more natural. Alternatively, you can set the radio to play as the alarm goes off.
Although the SmartSleep is probably more of an alarm clock with light settings than a light therapy box, it’s good for helping you wake up more naturally.
If you live somewhere particularly dark in the winter, it’d be a great addition to your morning routine.
Its only real downside is that it would be nicer if the light could be made brighter.
But considering this is an alarm clock designed to help wake you up, rather than a light therapy lamp, this is only a minor issue. Overall, it’s good at what it’s designed to do.
Pros
- Soft light simulates sunrise
- Plenty of functionality to help you wake up
- The big display is very pleasant on dark mornings
Cons
- Not designed to help with SAD or other conditions
Carex Day-Light Classic Light Therapy Lamp
Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Bright Light Therapy Lamp
The Carex Daylight is another classic light therapy lamp. It gives out 10,000 lux of brightness and is UV-free.
Better yet, it uses LEDs, so you don’t have to worry about the flickering often associated with fluorescent bulbs.
The Carex Day-Light features a fairly standard design, which is not a drawback but rather an advantage.
It encompasses all the essential functions one would desire from a sun lamp, coupled with user-friendly operation.
Measuring 13.5“ x 10”, the lamp provides ample light exposure. With a size that allows for a comfortable distance of up to 14", you won’t need to press your face into it, as is often the case with smaller lamps.
At 8lbs., it falls on the heavier side. But considering it’s corded, this isn’t an issue because you won’t necessarily be taking it anywhere. Just plug it in and enjoy your morning coffee by its side!
There are 2 light settings: high and low. Although you’ll only get light therapy brightness on the high setting, the low setting is ideal for use as an everyday desk lamp.
This isn’t completely necessary, but it helps if you need extra light while reading or doing other tasks.
The Carex is built much like a normal lamp: it has a stand and the light itself. The stand is height adjustable, giving you decent flexibility over its position.
It’s made from metal and polycarbonate, so it’s pretty impact-resistant. Also, the minimalist design will fit well in most rooms.
The main drawback of this lamp is its size. With a height of 31” and weighing 8 lbs., it may pose a challenge for mobility.
However, if you prefer a stationary setup, it’s an excellent choice. For those seeking a more portable option, exploring a different, more compact model might be advisable.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Can also function as a normal lamp
- UV-free
Cons
- Size and weight make it difficult to move around
Sunrise Sensations DayBright Light Therapy Lamp
Sunrise Sensations DayBright Light Therapy Lamp
The Sunrise Sensations Light Therapy Lamp focuses on design as much as functionality.
Unlike many other light boxes that adhere to a standard lamp design, the Sunrise Sensations stands out with its unique aesthetic. It makes it feel less like a mere tool and more like an appealing decor piece.
The Sunrise Sensations lamp features a large central screen and several smaller screens around the side.
The wooden frame makes it look better and different from regular clinical light boxes. It adds a warm touch without messing with how it works.
It uses LEDs to power its light box, which reaches a maximum brightness of 10,000 lux. As you’d expect, it’s UV-free, too.
Unlike other sun lamps, it has an adjustable brightness range that goes from 5,000 lux to 10,000 lux. Most others just have weak and strong light, so this is a nice extra feature.
Helpfully, you can adjust this setting from the included remote control. It also lets you set the daylight phase and light color, which ranges from cool to warm.
A remote isn’t a necessary addition, but if you’re relaxing in bed or have mobility issues, it’s very helpful.
It measures 15” x 15” x 8” and weighs 6.2lbs. While it’s not as heavy as the Carex lamp, it’s still fairly large.
Due to its angular shape, you might struggle to put it on a smaller bedside table. However, if you do, it’ll make a lovely lamp.
Plus, it’s corded so you don’t have to worry about needing to transport it anywhere.
In essence, this sun lamp is ideal if both design and functionality matter to you.
Even though its shape and style don’t affect how well it works, being able to fit a light therapy lamp into a room’s design is a cool improvement.
Pros
- Interesting design and shape
- Meets all the criteria of an SAD lamp
- Fully adjustable brightness and color
Cons
- Size and shape might mean you’ll struggle to find somewhere to place it
Erligpowht Light Therapy Lamp
Erligpowht Light Therapy Lamp UV-Free 10000 Lux
This Light Therapy Lamp is another simple yet functional design. One major selling point, other than its compact size, is its adjustable timer.
It gives you plenty of flexibility over how long your session is, which can be helpful for those with more severe SAD.
Much like the CHLLEN above, this is more of a travel-size sun lamp.
Measuring just 0.5” x 5.1” x 6.7” and weighing 10oz, it’s compact. However, without a built-in battery, it requires a constant power outlet connection.
Although this limits where you can use it, its portability makes it easy to take to work or other places.
As you’d expect from a light therapy lamp, it reaches 10,000 lux and is UV-free.
With three brightness levels ranging from 30% to 100%, this lamp doubles as a table lamp.
The brightness and timer are easily controlled through simple touch buttons on the front of the lamp.
The adjustable timer is a particularly useful feature. It ranges from 15 minutes to an hour in 15-minute increments.
Although a standard light therapy session is 30 minutes, you might want a longer or shorter session depending on your needs.
This lamp features an adjustable stand on the back, allowing you to switch it between landscape or portrait mode. While this isn’t a super necessary feature, the foldable stand itself means it’s more compact and easier to carry.
The power cord is also detachable, allowing you to easily pack everything away in a bag.
There’s not much to criticize about this lamp. Its simplicity matches its low price, providing all the important features you'd expect from a light therapy lamp.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for those exploring light therapy without wanting to invest heavily.
Pros
- Entry-level price point
- Small and compact – easy to carry around
- Adjustable timer
Cons
- Fairly bare-bones functionality
BOXelite Light Therapy Lamp
BOXelite Light Therapy Lamp
The BOXelite Light Therapy Lamp has a sleek and modern design that looks much like a tablet, making it conveniently portable for travel.
Despite its compact size, it emits sufficient brightness to qualify as an effective light therapy lamp for SAD.
As mentioned, the BOXelite reaches 10,000 lux at a 14” distance. It’s UV-free and the light temperature falls within the cool white spectrum.
While warmer lights are usually more pleasant and offer a better sunlight simulation, the BOXelite’s cool white spectrum is still effective for waking up.
It has a frosted screen that diffuses the light, meaning it’s less intense than it would be through standard glass.
Unlike other models, it uses fluorescent bulbs. This shouldn’t really be an issue for most people, although they don’t last as long as LEDs.
In terms of size, this sun lamp is compact and lightweight, measuring 12.25” x 2.5” x 17”. While not tiny, it’s still small enough to easily tuck away in a bag.
Keep in mind that it’s a corded model rather than battery-powered, which may slightly limit your setup options. Nevertheless, it’s suitable for taking to work if necessary.
A notable deficit in this sun lamp is adjustable brightness, a feature commonly found in lamps at lower price points.
While not a deal-breaker, you may initially find the brightness a bit intense when first turned on.
To deal with this, think about starting a bit farther away than the instructions say. This helps you get used to the brightness more slowly.This model is a solid choice if you prefer a straightforward sun lamp. Yet, you may want to explore alternative models for more flexibility.
Pros
- Straightforward functionality makes it simple to use
- Sleek design
- Easy to set up
Cons
- Lack of adjustable brightness is noticeable
Lavish Home Sunlight Floor Lamp
Lavish Home (72-0890) 5 Feet Sunlight Floor Lamp
Unlike the majority of sun lamps designed for desktop or travel use, the Lavish Home Sunlight Lamp is a floor model.
This feature makes it perfect for placement beside an armchair or bed without occupying any table space.
While this may not initially seem like a significant advantage, it can make a notable difference in smaller rooms.
At a height of 5 feet, this floor lamp is relatively sizable. However, its adjustable height, especially beneficial for reading, adds to its versatility.
Assembly is straightforward right out of the box, and it is visibly corded.
The 55-inch cord provides ample flexibility for optimal placement.
It’s worth mentioning that the bulb emits 1,300 lumens. While not precisely the same as 1,300 lux, it’s close enough for comparison.
However, it doesn’t reach the brightness levels typical of a light therapy lamp.
As implied by its name, it’s a sunlight lamp designed to simulate the tone and color of natural sunlight.
The lamp uses a warm white fluorescent bulb. It’s bright enough for a 350 sq. ft. room, perfect for living rooms or bedrooms.
It may not have the sun-like features of the Sunrise Sensations lamp, but its warm light is great for creating a cozy vibe.
The lamp features a black gooseneck stand, and the top section is flexible for versatile positioning. Control is managed through a button, although it lacks timers or brightness adjusters.
Given its nature as a standard floor lamp, the absence of these features is not a significant drawback.
No big drawbacks here. If you’re getting this lamp for a cozy daylight feel, it should be as bright as you want.
However, if you’re seeking a model specifically designed to address SAD, it would be advisable to choose a different option.
Pros
- Floor stand is ideal for smaller spaces
- Easy to build
- Good brightness and light temperature
Cons
- Isn’t sold as a light therapy lamp – it’s designed to simulate daylight
Carex Sunlite Light Therapy Lamp
Carex Sunlite Bright Light Therapy Lamp
Carex is indeed a prominent brand in the light therapy lamp industry, so it’s not surprising that its Sunlite Light Therapy Lamp earns a spot on this list.
This budget-friendly sun lamp boasts user-friendly features and a straightforward design.
Following the emerging standard in sun lamps, the Sunlite lamp utilizes LEDs. Beyond their energy efficiency, LEDs also have a longer lifespan compared to fluorescent lights.
Emitting 10,000 lux and being UV-free, these LEDs meet the standard criteria for a SAD lamp.
Measuring 13.5” high, 8.8” wide, and 2” deep, this sun lamp is a suitable desktop option.
Whether placed on your bedside table or desk, it allows for light therapy while you work or relax in bed.
The light color is warmer compared to many other options on the market, a feature that may be preferred by some individuals. The warmer light mimics daylight more closely, even though it is evidently brighter than natural daylight.
The lamp’s housing is made of plastic, and while it may feel slightly less premium than metal-bodied models, it remains sturdy enough. Importantly, the plastic construction helps keep the cost of the lamp down.
Although it is corded, this is not a significant concern for a desk lamp.
This light box is simple in how it works. It has a basic on/off button on the front but doesn’t have brightness settings or a timer. While these extras can be handy, they’re not necessary. The light box still does its job fine without them.
There aren’t any notable downsides to this light box. With its bare-bones design, it’s a suitable choice if you’re seeking a standard light therapy lamp.
Additionally, this simplicity allows you to get a decent light therapy lamp at a lower price.
Pros
- Decent build quality
- Warmer light will appeal to some users
- Perfect size for a desktop lamp
Cons
- Lacks some functionality you might want from a lamp
The Verilux HappyLight boasts a sleek and modern design, differing from other models as it sits in a cradle rather than having a stand.
This design choice allows for tilt adjustments, adding a helpful feature.
Meeting the standard criteria for a SAD therapy lamp, it produces 10,000 lux of brightness and is UV-free. Emitting cool white light, it feels brighter than comparable models despite the same brightness output.
Its small size (4” x 6.25” x 12.5”) makes it great for desktop, bedside, or desk use. The stand adds stability and allows for placement on soft surfaces.
Another feature is the wall mount, offering placement flexibility.
On the front are two brightness settings, with the highest setting achieving the full 10,000 lux for light therapy.
You can switch lenses, like High Energy or Glare-Control, to help with tired eyes or make the most of full-spectrum light.
A notable drawback is the absence of an on/off switch, requiring the unit to be unplugged for a complete power down.
Pros
- Wall mount bracket and base give you flexibility of placement
- Extra lenses are a useful feature
- Small enough to work as a desktop lamp
Cons
- No dedicated on/off switch – you need to unplug it to turn it off
Suxio Light Therapy Lamp
SUXIO Light Therapy Lamp – 10000 Lux Therapy LightThe SUXIO Light Therapy Lamp is a portable desktop model, ideal for those who want flexibility in moving their sun lamp. Its compact size and light weight enhance its portability.
Key features include the emission of 10,000 lux of UV-free light at the highest setting.
It has three brightness modes, unlike most lamps that only have two. You can set it at 4,000 or 7,000 lux for either light therapy or regular desk lighting.
The timer can be set for 30, 60, or 90 minutes. It also remembers your last settings, making it convenient for your next use.
With dimensions of 0.5” x 5.1” x 6.8”, it’s a compact model, weighing only 0.7 lbs., making it easy to carry in a bag.
As a corded model, the included cable is sufficiently long, and you have the option for a USB cable, allowing connection to a computer.
The placement of front-face buttons under the light may pose a minor inconvenience, particularly in a dark room.
Pros
- Compact model makes it ideal for carrying in a bag
- Timer and brightness settings give you flexibility over sessions
- Memory function means you can just enjoy the last settings you used
Cons
- Button placement isn’t the best
How Do I Choose a Light Therapy Lamp?
Choosing a light therapy lamp depends on several factors, the most important of which is what you want to achieve.
For example, light boxes that treat SAD need to have a brightness of 10,000 lux and provide full-spectrum visible light.
On the other hand, sunrise simulators can be much less bright (often around 1,000 lux), as they just need to provide a relaxing warm light.
Understanding the key factors is important to choose the right light therapy lamp for your needs.Lamp Brightness
There are different ways to measure the brightness of a light source. The one you need to know for a light box is lux.
In simple terms, lux measures light density at 1 lumen per meter squared. But what does this mean in practical terms?
A lumen is the amount of light visible to the human eye. So, a lux measures how much of this light is visible to the human eye in a set area, which translates to its perceived brightness.
All in all, a light therapy lamp looks exceptionally bright due to emitting a concentrated amount of light in a small area.
This concentrated brightness is crucial for effectively treating conditions like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
For effective light therapy, you'll want a lamp that emits 10,000 lux, and this information is usually easily accessible on most products. In contrast, sunrise or daylight simulators tend to be much darker, ranging from 300 to 2,000 lux.
This is because these simulators are not intended to treat SAD or similar conditions, and therefore, they don’t require the same brightness and intensity.
Instead, they’re meant to be mood boosters by simulating a sunny day, which can be sufficient for some individuals.
In summary, determine whether you need a lamp for treating SAD or simply something to uplift your mood in the morning.
Knowing your specific requirements will assist in narrowing down your options.
Light Temperature
Light temperature is measured in Kelvin on a scale of 1,000 to 10,000.
Another important thing to consider is light temperature. It’s not about the heat from the bulb but how the light looks – whether it seems “warm” or “cool.”. Light temperature is measured in Kelvin on a scale of 1,000 to 10,000.
Smaller numbers mean “warm” white light with more orange or yellow tones. It’s great for making a comfy atmosphere in places like living rooms or bedroomsFor light boxes, the same logic applies:
- Warm light is better for sunrise simulators and relaxing light therapy lamps
- Cool lighting (closer to 10,000K) will help to increase alertness
- Something in the middle (around 5,000K) provides the same benefits but is easier on the eyes
When exploring cool lights, it’s essential to consider how your eyes respond to blue light.
Blue light can cause eye fatigue, which is why we have blue light filters on our mobile devices.
If you’re sensitive to this, opt for warmer cool lighting, typically ranging from 4,500 to 7,000 Kelvin.
Extra Features
The absolute basic function of a light therapy lamp is that it turns on and off, and provides the correct brightness. Anything else is technically an extra feature. That said, there are plenty of things that can prove useful, including:
Timer
A timer is pretty obvious: it turns the light off after a set period of time. This is helpful for light therapy because 30 minutes is considered the standard session time.
While you can set a timer on your phone, setting one on the lamp simply makes things easier.
Brightness Settings
Any light box with brightness settings will only provide light therapy brightness on one, usually the highest setting.
Lower settings mean it can be used as a standard lamp, which is helpful but not necessary.
Battery
The majority of household light boxes are corded, which is suitable for a desk setup. However, certain models are battery-powered and rechargeable.
This feature is handy if you intend to bring your light box on vacation or to the office. Fortunately, there is a wide range of battery-operated models available in the market.
Adjustable Stand
An adjustable stand provides flexibility in placing your lamp. It allows you to tilt the light or set it in landscape or portrait orientation, offering options for different table setups.
While not essential, it adds versatility to accommodate various needs.
Do Light Therapy Lamps Need UV?
Light therapy lamps don’t require UV light to be effective for conditions like Seasonal SAD.UV radiation can be beneficial for certain conditions and vitamin D production.
So if you have a condition that may benefit from UV exposure, it’s advisable to consult a medical professional.
It’s important to note that UV light exposure carries risks. Therefore, most light therapy lamps in the industry come equipped with built-in UV light filters that remove up to 100% of UV radiation.
How Long Does It Take Light Therapy to Work?
The exact timeline of light therapy will vary depending on your symptoms, condition, severity, and the type of light you use. However, most people will see some difference within a few days or up to a week.
You should notice significant improvements after several weeks of daily use.
As for how long to continue using light therapy, it entirely depends on the condition you’re treating.
For example, if you have Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), it’s usually good to do light therapy during the winter, especially when it’s dark a lot.
In brighter areas, you might be able to reduce light therapy once your symptoms improve.
Do Light Therapy Lamps Give You Vitamin D?
Technically, the lamp itself doesn’t give you vitamin D.
Your body produces vitamin D in response to the wavelengths of light produced by sunlight.
That’s why a lot of people feel Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) during colder, darker months. You don’t get enough of the light wavelengths needed.
For a light therapy lamp to support vitamin D production, it needs to emit wavelengths between 280-320 nm.
Any light therapy lamp labeled as “broad spectrum” or “full spectrum” typically covers these wavelengths.
It’s crucial, however, to consider the lamp’s filtering capabilities for UV and blue light exposure.
If the light therapy lamp filters these elements well, it can be a good way to get the important sunshine vitamin, especially in the middle of winter.Is It Okay to Do Light Therapy Everyday?
Using light therapy every day is generally safe for conditions like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
However, it’s vital that your light box doesn’t produce UV light, as daily exposure could increase the risk of skin cancer. Therefore, using a lamp with a UV filter makes it safe for daily use.
Therefore, using a lamp with a UV filter makes it safe for daily use. You might also want to choose one that emits warm light if you’re sensitive to blue light wavelengths.
If you’re unsure about things like light temperature and brightness, check the list of products above.
If you still have questions, it’s a good idea to talk to a doctor.
Conclusion
This list should provide all the information you need about the best light therapy lamps. With plenty of options to choose from, the lamps listed here cover a good range.Before making your choice, consider essential factors like light temperature and brightness. This will help you select the right lamp for your needs, making the decision fairly straightforward.
Whether you’re starting with light therapy or simply seeking a sunny vibe at home, this lamp is a perfect choice. It fulfills all the criteria for a reliable light therapy lamp, making it a worthwhile consideration.
