Our Story
Best Lamp Australia was born in 2021 from a simple frustration: finding reliable, Australian-focused information about home lighting was nearly impossible. Most resources were written for overseas markets, ignoring our unique electrical standards, climate considerations, and local availability.
Our founder, Sarah Mitchell, spent three months researching desk lamps for her home office setup. She discovered that understanding the difference between colour rendering index (CRI) values, appropriate lumen outputs for different room sizes, and the nuances of warm versus cool colour temperatures wasn't straightforward. Product specifications were often misleading, and many "reviews" were little more than copied manufacturer descriptions.
Determined to help others avoid this frustrating experience, Sarah assembled a team of like-minded lighting enthusiasts. Together, we've built Best Lamp Australia into a comprehensive resource for anyone looking to improve their home lighting. We've personally tested over fifty lamps, measuring everything from actual lux output at various distances to power consumption and heat generation.
Our testing methodology goes beyond simply switching on a lamp. We evaluate colour accuracy using calibrated instruments, assess flicker rates that can cause eye strain and headaches, and examine build quality to predict longevity. We consider real-world usage scenarios: how well does a reading lamp perform during a four-hour reading session? Does that smart lamp maintain a stable Wi-Fi connection? Will the touch controls still work reliably after months of daily use?
We believe that good lighting transforms spaces. The right lamp doesn't just illuminate a room—it creates atmosphere, enhances productivity, and contributes to wellbeing. Whether you're setting up a productive home office, creating a cosy reading corner, or designing ambient lighting for your living room, we're here to guide you through the options and help you make informed decisions.
Every recommendation we make is based on genuine hands-on testing and research. We're transparent about our affiliate partnerships—when you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. But our editorial integrity is non-negotiable. We've recommended budget options over premium alternatives when they genuinely performed better, and we've criticised popular products that didn't live up to their marketing promises.
Our Mission
To provide Australians with trustworthy, expert guidance on home lighting—helping you create spaces that are beautiful, functional, and energy-efficient. We cut through marketing jargon and deliver practical advice backed by real-world testing.
Meet Our Team
Sarah Mitchell
Founder & Lead Editor
With a background in interior design and over 15 years of experience in residential lighting projects, Sarah leads our testing methodology and editorial direction. She's particularly passionate about circadian-friendly lighting solutions.
James Chen
Technical Reviewer
James is a qualified electrical engineer who ensures all our reviews consider safety standards and technical specifications. He specialises in smart home integration and LED technology advancements.
Emma Watson
Content Specialist
Emma translates complex lighting terminology into accessible guides for everyday readers. Her focus on readability ensures our content helps beginners and enthusiasts alike navigate the world of home lighting.
Our Testing Process
We don't rely on manufacturer claims. Every lamp we feature goes through our rigorous testing process:
- Measuring actual lumen output using a calibrated lux meter at standardised distances
- Evaluating colour rendering index (CRI) to assess how accurately colours appear under the light
- Testing for flicker using high-speed cameras to protect against eye strain
- Assessing build quality, materials, and construction durability
- Verifying smart features work reliably with Australian Wi-Fi networks and voice assistants
- Long-term usage testing over weeks to identify any degradation or reliability issues