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The Best Light Therapy Lamp in Canada in 2023 – Reviews and Buying Guide

by Véronique Raymond
Therapy Lamp

Table of Contents

Light therapy is a newly emerging and quickly expanding home treatment method for people suffering Seasonal Affective Disorder, circadian rhythm disorders, mood disorders including depression and anxiety, and others. A lack of proper sunlight causes a much wider variety of physical and emotional issues than we realize. At the turn of the seasons, these problems become exacerbated by the shorter days and reduced sunlight. 

The solution? Light therapy lamps for your home, dorm, or office! Light therapy lamps are the top solution for the winter blues since they provide natural lighting that mimics the sun to boost our serotonin levels, increase our mood, and give us a fresh dose of energy to get through the day. These lamps can even assist with jet lag, insomnia, or shift workers struggling to adjust their sleeping schedules. 

Choosing the right lamp for your circumstances and lifestyle is crucial in how well the treatment works for you. We’ve spent 38 hours analyzing 1643 customer reviews and 21 different products in order to bring you up to speed on the best light therapy lamps on the market today. We’ll go through our top choices and give you all of the information you need to make an educated decision on which light therapy lamp will work for you.

Following our last update, our favorite model is the Theralite Aura Bright Light Therapy Lamp

Theralite Aura Bright Light Therapy Lamp - 10,000 LUX - Sun Lamp Mood Light to Fight The Winter Blues and Low Energy

In a rush? Buy it now on Amazon!

 

Light Therapy Lamp Comparative Table

Product Summary Rating Price
TOP PICK
Theralite Aura Bright Light Therapy Lamp

Theralite Aura Bright Light Therapy Lamp - 10,000 LUX - Sun Lamp Mood Light to Fight The Winter Blues and Low Energy

  • Light Source: LED
  • Power Source: AC
  • Style: Light Therapy
9.6/10

Read our Review

See price on Amazon
UPGRADE PICK
Pure Guardian SPA50CA Spectrum Lamp

PureGuardian SPA50CA Light Therapy Lamp, 10,000 LUX Full Spectrum Customizable Blue or White Light Intensity, Timer, Compact, Portable, Pure Guardian Sun Lamp

  • 10,000 Lux white light
  • 4,500 Lux blue light
  • Blue or White light 
  • Timer 5-30 minutes
  • Includes USB port to charge your phone
  • Tilt optional (90-70 degrees)
  • 3 intensity levels 
  • LED bulbs
  • UV Free
  • White
  • 1.3 lbs
  • 5.1” x 6.8” x 9.5”
9.5/10

Read our Review

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MADE IN CANADA PICK
Northern Light Technologies Light Therapy Light Box

Northern Light Technologies Boxelite 10, 000 Lux Bright Light Therapy Light Box, Black, 3.18 ounces

  • 10,000 Lux white light
  • Wattage: 72 watts
  • Color: black
9.5/10

Read our Review

See price on Amazon
BUDGET PICK
Verilux HappyLight Liberty VT10WW1

Verilux VT10WW1 HappyLight Liberty Compact Light Therapy Lamp

  • 5,000 Lux
  • White
  • Compact and portable
  • Replaceable Optix Glare Control Lens 
  • UV Free
  • 1.5 lbs
  • 6.3” x 3” x 7.4”
9.1/10

Read our Review

See price on Amazon
DESIGN PICK
Luxor Pyramid NLT-LUX

Luxor 10,000 Lux Bright Light Therapy Pyramid Lamp, White

  • 10,000 Lux
  • No timer
  • One brightness level
  • UV Free
  • Pyramid shape
  • Full spectrum lighting 
  • CFL bulb
  • 15” x 15” x 15”
  • White
  • 3.5 lbs
8.8/10

Read our Review

See price on Amazon

Our Pick for The Best Light Therapy Light

Theralite Aura Bright Light Therapy Lamp Review

Theralite Aura Bright Light Therapy Lamp - 10,000 LUX - Sun Lamp Mood Light to Fight The Winter Blues and Low Energy

The Top Pick
Theralite

This simple light therapy lamp is going to become one of your favorite tools this winter. It has all the style and versatility that you need and lots of power to make sure that you fight off the deficiencies and can add more happiness to each day. With just a few minutes each day, this light therapy lamp will get the work done.

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on Amazon

What We Think of the Theralite Aura Bright Light Therapy Lamp

This is a bright light that can provide all of the therapy that you need, no matter the treatment that you need. With a 10,000 LUX LED light, you will get the brightness that you need without all of the glare that a traditional light will provide. The bright light can chase away the sadness and help you feel rejuvenated and ready to take on the day.

This is an adjustable light that will provide you with some control on where the light therapy will happen. You can adjust the height and the angle. The stand allows for a bit of rotation so you can move it to the right part of the body. While it will only add a bit of height, it is often enough to help.

The tilt is too flexible and doesn’t stay in horizontal position very easy. Other than that, the brightness control is excellent which is the main reason I purchased it.

nroy

The 4 light settings can help you choose the right type of therapy for your needs. This helps you to use the LED lights as efficiently as possible for both task lighting and light therapy. For those who are dealing with a mild to moderate amount of light of deficiency, especially during the winter, this light therapy light is one of the best options.

This light therapy lamp may not look like much on the outside. The simple and small design can be off-putting to some who want something cool to use. But it gets the work done for an affordable price and has all the features that you need.

Theralite Aura Bright Light Therapy Lamp - 10,000 LUX - Sun Lamp Mood Light to Fight The Winter Blues and Low Energy

Theralite Aura Bright Light Therapy Lamp - 10,000 LUX - Sun Lamp Mood Light to Fight The Winter Blues and Low Energy

Theralite Aura Bright Light Therapy Lamp - 10,000 LUX - Sun Lamp Mood Light to Fight The Winter Blues and Low Energy

Theralite Aura Bright Light Therapy Lamp Specifications

  • Style: Light Therapy
  • Light source: LED
  • Power Source: AC
  • Brand: TheraLite

 

Theralite Aura Bright Light Therapy Lamp Pros and Cons

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Pros

Pros

  • An affordable price
  • 4 light settings so you can use it for light therapy or as a regular lamp
  • Has some adjustability to it to get it to the right position.
img-14

Cons

Cons
  • The tilt is not the best for this one

 

Our Final Opinion About the Theralite Aura Bright Light Therapy Lamp

Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price:4.2]

Overall, this is a great light therapy lamp to enjoy in the middle of winter when you are tired of not seeing the sun. adjusting It can be a little bit hard and may take a few tries. But with four light settings, you can cure the light deficiency that you are dealing with or use this as a regular lamp while being safe and warm in the winter.

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on Amazon

Our Upgrade Pick for a Light Therapy Light

Pure Guardian SPA50CA Review

PureGuardian SPA50CA Light Therapy Lamp, 10,000 LUX Full Spectrum Customizable Blue or White Light Intensity, Timer, Compact, Portable, Pure Guardian Sun Lamp

The Versatile Light
Pure Guardian

The Pure Guardian SPA50CA light therapy lamp is the only one on our list that offers white light and a blue energy light in one unit. If you want to experiment with both light types without buying two separate lamps, its your lucky day.

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What We Think of the Pure Guardian SPA50CA

The Pure Guardian lamp is incredible versatile, offering both full spectrum white light therapy as well as a simpler blue light therapy. With 10,000 Lux, this lamp will effectively increase your energy levels, improve your mood, and help against a number od ailments that benefit from light therapy. This lamp features a few extras that make it worthy of a few extra bucks. 

This unit has a timer that ranges from 5 minutes to 30 minutes for your ideal session. You’ll also be able to take advantage of a tilt feature that allows you to get the perfect angle without needing to MacGyver a contraption to hold it in place. For those of us not exactly mechanically inclined, or just mechanically inclined enough to hurt ourselves in our attempt, this tilt function is a godsend. This lamp even comes with a handy USB port to charge your phone.

I use the light to treat my Seasonal Affective Disorder, and after a week it is working great! My mood is improved and I have lot smore energy than usual. I wasn’t sure if a blue light or a white light would be better for me, so I use both on this lamp which is super convenient. The timer feature is very helpful since you’re only supposed to use it 30-minutes at a time and I get easily distracted!

Rosalinda R.

This light isn’t the most visually appealing light out there, but what it lacks in design, it makes up for in functionality in versatility. Our only complaint is the high price tag, but for these extra features and versatility, we’re willing to overlook it since it does earn its keep.

PureGuardian SPA50CA Light Therapy Lamp, 10,000 LUX Full Spectrum Customizable Blue or White Light Intensity, Timer, Compact, Portable, Pure Guardian Sun Lamp

PureGuardian SPA50CA Light Therapy Lamp, 10,000 LUX Full Spectrum Customizable Blue or White Light Intensity, Timer, Compact, Portable, Pure Guardian Sun Lamp

PureGuardian SPA50CA Light Therapy Lamp, 10,000 LUX Full Spectrum Customizable Blue or White Light Intensity, Timer, Compact, Portable, Pure Guardian Sun Lamp

 

Pure Guardian SPA50CA Specifications

  • Lux: 10,000 white light, 4,500 blue light
  • Dimensions: 5.1” x 6.8” x 9.5”
  • Weight: 1.3 lbs
  • Colour: White
  • Light Colour: White and Blue
  • Light Source: LED
  • Brightness levels: 3
  • Timer: 5-30 minutes

 

Pure Guardian SPA50CA Pros and Cons

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Pros

Pros

  • White or blue light options
  • Tilt feature
  • Timer has 5-minute intervals
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Cons

Cons
  • Expensive

 

Our Final Opinion About the Pure Guardian SPA50CA

Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars

If you don’t mind shelling out a few extra dollars, this is a worthy upgrade from your basic light therapy lamp. The extra features make usability even better than most light therapy lamps, and we’re just tickled pink by the completely random and unexpected, yet greatly appreciated, USB port. A little thoughtfulness goes a long way in our book.

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Our Made in Canada Pick for a Light Therapy Light

Northern Light Technologies Light Therapy Light Box Review

Northern Light Technologies Boxelite 10, 000 Lux Bright Light Therapy Light Box, Black, 3.18 ounces

The Best Budget Light
Northern Light Technologies

This unique looking light is the best one to provide you with all of the light therapy that you need. It is compact and light enough that you can pack it up and take it anywhere that you would like it to be. Great ready for some intense therapy that feels good, chases away the winter blues, and makes you feel better than ever before.

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Northern Light Technologies Light Therapy Light Box Video Review

 

What We Think of the Northern Light Technologies Light Therapy Light Box

The look of this light is a little bit different than some of the other models on our list. This can be a good thing for some, but it may appear to be more of a mirror than a light. We found that it did provide some great light therapy to those who use it.

This box light is designed to offer 10,000 lux at a distance of up to 14 inches with the UV blocked with it. It provides the full spectrum of lighting and an 8 feet grounded power cord for hooking up wherever it is he most convenient.

Since this is not a traditional kind of light, there will be a stand that comes with it. This helps you to set the Boxelite up to be vertical, allowing for the maximum amount of efficiency possible.

Unlike some of the other options on the list, this one comes with a reliable performance and you will not have to listen to the annoying hum or worry about flickering like some of the other therapy lights will have. This can make it easier to utilize without getting annoyed.

Be ready for a really bright light though. The lumens tend to spread out with this kind of mirror compared to some of the others. This can provide more of the light therapy but does throw some people off when they first use it. It takes up minimal space so can be a nice addition to any area you want to use it.

Northern Light Technologies Boxelite 10, 000 Lux Bright Light Therapy Light Box, Black, 3.18 ounces

Northern Light Technologies Boxelite 10, 000 Lux Bright Light Therapy Light Box, Black, 3.18 ounces

Northern Light Technologies Boxelite 10, 000 Lux Bright Light Therapy Light Box, Black, 3.18 ounces

Northern Light Technologies Light Therapy Light Box Specifications

  • Brand: Northern light Technologies
  • Wattage: 72 watts
  • Color: Black
  • Lux: 10,000

 

Northern Light Technologies Light Therapy Light Box Pros and Cons

img-25

Pros

Pros

  • Easy to set up
  • 10,000 lux to help provide therapy
  • Small and compact
  • Comes with a stand to get the most exposure
img-26

Cons

Cons
  • Looks like a mirror rather than an actual lamp
  • The power cord can get in the way.

 

Our Final Opinion About the Northern Light Technologies Light Therapy Light Box

Quality 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars

When you want to use the Northern Light Technologies light therapy box, you need to make sure that you put the stand on. Otherwise it will just sit on a desk or table and not really reach you. this extra step can be a bit of a hassle. Overall, this is a great light therapy lamp that can provide you with plenty of brightness and can change your mood in no time.

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Our Budget Pick for a Light Therapy Light

Verilux HappyLight Liberty VT10WW1 Review

Verilux VT10WW1 HappyLight Liberty Compact Light Therapy Lamp

The Light for Patient People
Verilux

This compact, and quite frankly adorable, Verilux HappyLight Liberty light therapy lamp is an affordable ‘economy’ option for people who are on a budget but still want to reap all of the benefits that go hand-in-hand with light therapy. 

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Verilux HappyLight Liberty VT10WW1 Video Review

What We Think of the Verilux HappyLight Liberty VT10WW1

The Verilux HappyLight Liberty only has 5000 Lux, so you’ll need to double your session time from the recommended 15-30 minutes that a standard light therapy light needs to be effective. This light is best used when working or studying since sitting in one place for an hour-long session usually ends up feeling like triple that amount of time, unless you have more patience than any of us possess. 

Even though it requires longer downtime to effectively mimic that sunshiny day, the Verilux lamp has many great features. First, its compact design is exactly what we’d want to wake up to every day, and adorable seems the most accurate portrayal of how we feel about this light. It will suit any desk, dorm, or bedside table and will make you happier just by looking at it. Its compact design makes it great for traveling and will fit just about anywhere you want to put it.

This light is like having a cup of good coffee in the morning. I use it when putting on my makeup and by the time I leave for work, I am energized and in a much better mood. Your face does have to be pretty close to the lamp and I use it for half an hour at a time. Overall, I recommend this lamp to anyone who works inside or feels down in the winter.

Emily K.

This Verilux light also comes with an Optix Glare Control lens to help reduce eyestrain and eye-fatigue from its super-bright light, which we think is an excellent touch since this lamp has variable intensity settings for people with a higher sensitivity. Verilux seems dedicated to making these lamps work for their users, and we appreciate the effort. A downside to this lamp is a lack of a timer. For people who value convenience as much as we do, it’s a shame that this lamp isn’t equipped with a session timer.

Verilux VT10WW1 HappyLight Liberty Compact Light Therapy Lamp

Verilux VT10WW1 HappyLight Liberty Compact Light Therapy Lamp

Verilux VT10WW1 HappyLight Liberty Compact Light Therapy Lamp

 

Verilux HappyLight Liberty VT10WW1 Specifications

  • Lux: 5,000
  • Dimensions: 6.3” x 3” x 7.4”
  • Weight: 1.5 lbs
  • Colour: White
  • Light Colour: White
  • Light Source: 26-Watt Bulb
  • Brightness levels: 3

 

Verilux HappyLight Liberty VT10WW1 Pros and Cons

img-31

Pros

Pros

  • Small and portable
  • Optix Glare Lens reduces fatigue and eyestrain
  • Affordable
img-32

Cons

Cons
  • No timer
  • Not as powerful

 

Our Final Opinion About the Verilux HappyLight Liberty VT10WW1

Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars

Considering this Verilux lamp does ring in at the lower end of the price scale, it surprises us with its enjoyable compact design and effective light therapy – if you’re patient enough to sit the full hour.

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on Amazon

Our Design Pick for a Light Therapy Light

Luxor Pyramid NLT-LUX Review

Luxor 10,000 Lux Bright Light Therapy Pyramid Lamp, White

The ‘Make-A-Statement’ Light
Luxor

If you want a light therapy lamp that doesn’t look anything like a light therapy lamp, you’re going to love the Luxor Pyramid NLT-LUX light therapy lamp. It breaks all the rules about what a therapy light is supposed to look like, and we love it.

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What We Think of the Luxor Pyramid NLT-LUX

The Luxor Pyramid light therapy lamp is larger than many other typical light therapy lamps and its appealing shape makes it very popular among users. Its larger-than-normal surface area provides excellent light coverage to ensure effective treatments no matter where the lamp is placed or how far away you sit from it (within reason, of course). 

The lamp uses a 45W CFL bulb and emits a strong white light at 10,000 Lux to effectively mimic the sun on those ark and dreary winter days. The CFL bulb is an ideal choice since it won’t hum or cause any flickering for tens of thousands of hours of use. 

I started using this light about a month ago and it works beautifully! It doesn’t have a timer but that’s fine for me, I enjoy that it stays on until I’m ready to leave the house. It is very bright and effective. It goes without saying, but this lamp is by far the most visually appealing light-therapy light I’ve ever seen. Very happy with my light.

Brynn G.

While it looks great and has a competitive coverage area and light strength, we found it lacking in many other areas. This lamp does not have a timer for convenient session timing and only has one brightness setting. The lack of flexibility is frustrating, especially since the price of this lamp is pretty unreasonable compared to the others on our list. If you want to spend more on a visually appealing lamp, this light can definitely meet that need, but in terms of features and functionality, this lamp just doesn’t hold up against cheaper models.

Luxor 10,000 Lux Bright Light Therapy Pyramid Lamp, White

Luxor 10,000 Lux Bright Light Therapy Pyramid Lamp, White

Luxor 10,000 Lux Bright Light Therapy Pyramid Lamp, White

 

Luxor Pyramid NLT-LUX Specifications

  • Lux: 10,000
  • Dimensions: 15” x 15” x 15” 
  • Weight: 3.5 lbs
  • Colour: White
  • Light Colour: White
  • Light Source: 45W CFL Bulb
  • Brightness levels: 1

 

Luxor Pyramid NLT-LUX Pros and Cons

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Pros

Pros

  • Very appealing design
  • Strong light
  • Flicker-free
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Cons

Cons
  • Expensive 
  • No timer
  • One intensity level only

 

Our Final Opinion About the Luxor Pyramid NLT-LUX

Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars

Overall, this light is a bit of a let-down. Yes, it is eye-catching and will do what its designed to do, but functionality could have been drastically improved for the cost.

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on Amazon

Alternative Products to Consider

Nature Bright SunTouch Plus F40-40 Review

NatureBright SunTouch Plus Light and Ion Therapy Lamp

The 2-in-1 Light-Therapy and Ion-Therapy Light
Nature Bright

The Nature Bright SunTouch Plus is a great 2-in-1 light therapy lamp to meet all of your needs this winter. The combination of light therapy and Ion therapy in on unit is extremely convenient for anyone who will benefit from both.

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on Amazon

Nature Bright SunTouch Plus F40-40 Video Review

What We Think of the Nature Bright SunTouch Plus F40-40

The Nature Bright SunTouch Plus light therapy lam is not as pretty as some others on our list, but it does combine light therapy and ion therapy into one device for a pretty reasonable price. The ion therapy is an excellent addition to a light therapy light since it acts as an automatic antidepressant after just a few days of use. After using both the ion therapy and light therapy light every day for 2-3 days, you’ll notice an impressing change in your mood and energy levels. The light delivers 10,000 Lux to your eyes for a super effective treatment session. 

The SunTouch Plus also comes with a 60-minute timer for long light therapy sessions, though it does lack a timer for the ion therapy half of the machine which we found a bit odd. If you have a timer for one, why not both? But otherwise, you won’t experience any issues with functionality from this lamp. 

I got the SunTouch Plus to help with my insomnia. Since Melatonin didn’t help against nightmares and early awakenings, and actually probably caused some of it, I wanted to give light therapy a try. This light is amazing! I’ve been getting sleepy at a reasonable time now and I’m in a much better mood in the mornings. No complaints. I highly recommend this lamp for people with circadian rhythm issues.

Jeffrey R.

The addition of ion therapy is not the only extra special feature on this light therapy lamp. It also has a small personal air purifier at its base, so you can enjoy fresh, healthy air during your ion therapy or light therapy sessions. The tilt you want is already built-in to this device, so you can just turn it on and get reading, working, or whatever else you do to fill your session-time!

NatureBright SunTouch Plus Light and Ion Therapy Lamp

NatureBright SunTouch Plus Light and Ion Therapy Lamp

NatureBright SunTouch Plus Light and Ion Therapy Lamp

 

Nature Bright SunTouch Plus F40-40 Specifications

  • Lux: 10,000
  • Dimensions: 13.4” x 8.1” x 7”
  • Weight: 7 lbs
  • Colour: White
  • Light Colour: White
  • Light Source: 45Watt T5 tubes
  • Brightness levels: 1
  • Timer: up to 60 minutes

 

Nature Bright SunTouch Plus F40-40 Pros and Cons

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Pros

Pros

  • Timer in 15-minute intervals for varied use
  • Effective light
  • Includes ion-therapy
img-44

Cons

Cons

  • No timer for ion-therapy setting
  • Expensive

 

Our Final Opinion About the Nature Bright SunTouch Plus F40-40

Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars

The Nature Bright SunTouch Plus is an excellent light therapy lamp for anyone who wants a little extra help fighting off the winter blues. Even though it lacks a couple of desirable features, it has a few others that make it well worth a try.

See price
on Amazon

 

Verilux HappyLight VT20 Review

Verilux HappyLight VT20 Full-Size 10,000 Lux Bright White Light Therapy Lamp with 2 Interchangeable Lenses and 41 sq. in. Lens Size

The Full-Size Verilux Alternative
Verilux

The Verilux HappyLight VT20 is very similar to the other Verilux lamp on our list, but this lamp is a bit higher-end for people with a higher budget or a want for extra features.

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on Amazon

Verilux HappyLight VT20 Video Review

What We Think of the Verilux HappyLight VT20

This Verilux light therapy lamp come with 10,000 lux rather than 5000 like the VT10 model we showed you earlier. This stronger lamp is better suited for people who need shorter session in the morning or who require a more forceful treatment. This unit is 42cm2 for a larger light surface for a more effective treatment.

This model unfortunately doesn’t have a timer either, but it does have 2 brightness setting o that you can adjust the lamp for your sensitivity levels or to be more inconspicuous at work. The lamp also comes with two different lenses depending on what you need from the lamp. You can choose between a high energy lens and an Optix Glare Control lens to protect your eyes and reduce fatigue and strain during us.

My doctor recommended I try light therapy for my depression, and after thorough research I chose this light, and boy am I glad I did! After only a few days I started noticing a big difference. It’s super effective and I love that I’ll be able to just change the bulb and screens when I need to rather than buy a whole new light. I use it every morning during breakfast and again after dinner for 30 minutes. I highly recommend this light to everyone considering light therapy!

Tina G.

This light is versatile in that it has its own tilt function and can be used with its bracket or a wall mount depending on your space and your desired angle for the light. Our only complaint with this lamp is the lack of a timer, but for the impressive versatility, we can look past it.

Verilux HappyLight VT20 Full-Size 10,000 Lux Bright White Light Therapy Lamp with 2 Interchangeable Lenses and 41 sq. in. Lens Size

Verilux HappyLight VT20 Full-Size 10,000 Lux Bright White Light Therapy Lamp with 2 Interchangeable Lenses and 41 sq. in. Lens Size

Verilux HappyLight VT20 Full-Size 10,000 Lux Bright White Light Therapy Lamp with 2 Interchangeable Lenses and 41 sq. in. Lens Size

 

Verilux HappyLight VT20 Specifications

  • Lux: 10,000
  • Dimensions: 13” x 6.3” x 2.1” 
  • Weight: 2 lbs
  • Colour: White
  • Light Colour: White
  • Light Source: 36-Watt Fluorescent bulb
  • Brightness levels: 2
  • Timer: no timer

Verilux HappyLight VT20 Pros and Cons

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Pros

Pros

  • 2 brightness levels
  • 2 lens options
  • Price is reasonable  
  • Tilts 15 degrees each way
img-50

Cons

Cons

  • No timer

 

Our Final Opinion About the Verilux HappyLight VT20

Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.0 out of 5.0 stars

The Verilux HappyLight VT20 is the upgraded version of the VT10 model, and it gives us a variety of choice for how the lamp is set up, used, and enjoyed. We definitely recommend this light if you want an affordable but upgraded Verilux lamp.

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on Amazon

 

Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Light Therapy Lamp Review

Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Bright Light Therapy Lamp - 10,000 LUX - Sun Lamp Mood Light

The Best All-Rounder Alternative
Carex

The Carex light therapy lamp is a great option to use to get through those winter days. It combines some of the positives from some of the other light therapy lamps on our list. It is simple to plug in, is easy to adjust, and gives the recommended amount of light to help lift your mood and make you more alert than before.

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on Amazon

What We Think of the Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Light Therapy Lamp

The Carax light therapy lamp is a great one to include in your home to help lift the spirits and feel better than ever before. You will enjoy 10,000 LUX of glare-free white light, which will be the recommendations from many of the top experts in the field. While the light is nice and bright, 99.3% of the UV light will be blocked, giving you all the light therapy that you need with none of the bad stuff.

This light brings together all of the benefits that you are looking for. It has a stand that will lift it up a little bit more. And since it is attached, you will not have to worry about supporting it or keeping it up at all. Choose the angle that you like, keeping it on you while you rest or while doing some work at your desk.

Works great and I’ve noticed I’m more alert already after a few days of use. I was pleasantly surprised that in addition to the therapy setting there’s another that allows you to use this as a desk lamp. I really like that added option.

joe s.

The bulbs are flicker-free so you will not have to worry about the light not being steady. And you can plug it into any of the regular outlets that you have as well. Turn it on each day to provide some therapy or choose to wait until some of the short and dark days of fall and winter to help you feel better than before.

Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Bright Light Therapy Lamp - 10,000 LUX - Sun Lamp Mood Light

Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Bright Light Therapy Lamp - 10,000 LUX - Sun Lamp Mood Light

Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Bright Light Therapy Lamp - 10,000 LUX - Sun Lamp Mood Light

 

Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Light Therapy Lamp Specifications

  • Brand: Carex
  • Light settings: 2
  • Lumen: 10,000 LUX
  • Type of light: White Light

 

Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Light Therapy Lamp Pros and Cons

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Pros

Pros

  • Easy to plug in wherever you want
  • Bright light to help you feel better
  • Easy to tilt and use at the right angle
img-56

Cons

Cons

  • Not as big as some of the other options

 

Our Final Opinion About the Carex Day-Light Classic Plus Light Therapy Lamp

Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.8 Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.5 out of 5.0 stars Price 4.5 out of 5.0 stars

At the end of the day, this is a great light therapy lamp to choose. The price is at a good point for most people who want to get through the winter and all those dark days. There are not a lot of special features that come with it, but it lasts a long time, prevents you from getting UV rays, and will help wipe away the sadness and sleepiness when you are dealing with winter.

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Circadian Optics Light Therapy Lamp Review

Circadian Optics Light Therapy Lamp - Full Spectrum Sun Lights for Work from Home - Lampu (White)

The Circle Shape Alternative
Circadian Optics

The Circadian Optics light therapy lamp is a great option to help you chase away the winter blues and to get the sleep schedule that you need. With a simple circle shape, this one is a stylish option that looks nice in any décor you want to use too!

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What We Think of the Circadian Optics Light Therapy Lamp

The Circadian light therapy lamp is one of the most stylish lights on our list. This one is designed to not only give you some of the sun that you desire, but it is stylish enough to help you stay comfortable and warm throughout the winter. The sun lamp does not have any of the harmful UV rays that can make you sick, which helps it be safe no matter how you use it.

This is an effective light, giving the recommended about of light, at 10,000 LUX, to help regulate sleep, winter blues, and even to improve your focus and boost the amount of energy that you have. The light that is inside this happy little therapy lamp is going to mimic the colors of the daylight, making it a great option during winter or for those who live way up north.

We enjoyed that this one lasted a long time without needing new bulbs or a replacement. The natural LED lights that are inside of it are able to last close to 50,000 hours, which is longer than many of the other ones on our list. It also has a dot-free light on it, which provides a similar quality of light as the noonday sun.

This light is also easy to use. You can just do one touch and it is ready to go. There are also three levels to choose to make sure that you get the right brightness for your needs and the most comfort.

This light is a little bit smaller than some of the others on the list, which can make it harder to get all the light that you need. It is a bit harder to adjust and you need to get creative to make this one work well.

Circadian Optics Light Therapy Lamp - Full Spectrum Sun Lights for Work from Home - Lampu (White)

Circadian Optics Light Therapy Lamp - Full Spectrum Sun Lights for Work from Home - Lampu (White)

Circadian Optics Light Therapy Lamp - Full Spectrum Sun Lights for Work from Home - Lampu (White)

 

Circadian Optics Light Therapy Lamp Specifications

  • Brand: Circadian Optics
  • Light source: LED
  • Switch type: Touch

 

Circadian Optics Light Therapy Lamp Pros and Cons

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Pros

Pros

  • The light can last 50,000 hours
  • Three modes to choose from
  • Stylish and looks good in any setting
  • Protects against UV lights
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Cons

Cons

  • Smaller than other therapy lights
  • Does not adjust very well

 

Our Final Opinion About the Circadian Optics Light Therapy Lamp

Quality 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 4.0 out of 5.0 stars.7 Price 4.5 out of 5.0 stars

Overall, this is a great light. You can easily leave it at a desk or end table and utilize it when you need, without it looking out of place or being in the way. We liked that it is designed to last a long time and has the right amount of bright light to improve your mood and help you get to sleep and the three settings makes it even easier to use.

See price
on Amazon

 

Circadian Optics Luxy Light Therapy Lamp Review

(New) Circadian Optics Luxy Light Therapy Lamp | Ultra Compact 10,000 LUX Full Spectrum LED Light (USB Powered)

The Modern Alternative
Circadian Optics

Here is another option from Circadian Optics that is sure to make a splash. This brand has changed up the design to provide a light therapy lamp that is modern, sleek, and effective at helping you to get the brightness you need during the winter or to get to sleep faster each night.

See the price
on Amazon

What We Think of the Circadian Optics Luxy Light Therapy Lamp

There are a lot of fun features that come with this light therapy light. This one has all the power, up to 10,000 LUX, as some of the other Circadian Optics light lamps, but this one is designed to be ultra compact and USB powered. IN fact, this is one of the first and only light therapy lamps that will utilize USB to power it up.

With less power to start it up, we worried that it may not provide the right power that we needed. However, we were pleasantly surprised that it was still able to provide the same power and strength as other Circadian Optics therapy lamps, with the 10,000 LUX brightness to chase away the winter blues.

I suffer from poor sleep. Am trying this light to see if i can get better quality of sleep, one week in, seems to have helped some. Looking forward to more….better sleep.

raymond m.

This light provides 3 levels of brightness. This helps you to choose how high you would like to make the lights to get the best in therapy each time. Use it to chase away sleep disorders, fatigue, and winter blues. And with a 50,000 hour bulb lifespan and a great warranty, this will quickly become the light that you want to bring everywhere with you.

The design of this light makes it easy to adjust to any angle that you want. And it is small enough to take to a new location while you are traveling if you worry about jet lag or not being able to get to sleep at night.

(New) Circadian Optics Luxy Light Therapy Lamp | Ultra Compact 10,000 LUX Full Spectrum LED Light (USB Powered)

(New) Circadian Optics Luxy Light Therapy Lamp | Ultra Compact 10,000 LUX Full Spectrum LED Light (USB Powered)

(New) Circadian Optics Luxy Light Therapy Lamp | Ultra Compact 10,000 LUX Full Spectrum LED Light (USB Powered)

 

Circadian Optics Luxy Light Therapy Lamp Specifications

  • Brand: Circadian Optics
  • Shape: Square/box
  • Lumens: 10,000 LUX
  • Bulb life: 50,000 hours

 

Circadian Optics Luxy Light Therapy Lamp Pros and Cons

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Pros

Pros

  • Uses a USB to charge up
  • Cool box design that can tilt in any direction you want
  • The right brightness to feel better.
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Cons

Cons

  • It is a little smaller compared to some of the other light therapy lamps on our list.

 

Our Final Opinion About the Circadian Optics Luxy Light Therapy Lamp

Quality 4.0 out of 5.0 stars Effectiveness 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Design 5.0 out of 5.0 stars Price 5.0 out of 5.0 stars

This is a nice light therapy lamp. It is smaller than some of the other options, but it is meant to take traveling with you and can hook up to any USB drive that you would like. It still provides the power that you need and looks cute no matter where you take it. The compact brick design is one of a kind and will help you to make it angle any direction that you would like.

See price
on Amazon

 

Why Should You Trust Us?

All the recommendations we make on The Good Choice are the result of many hours of research, comparisons, analysis of consumer reviews and, if necessary, expert feedbacks. The products we recommend here are the ones that will best perform their daily tasks, passing all security, reliability and efficiency tests while having an appealing price-quality ratio for everyone. 

What are our criteria for judging the products reviewed and selected by The Good Choice?

  • Quality: Does the product have a solid construction? Will it be reliable over time? Does it have a good warranty?
  • Efficiency: Is the product efficient in its task or do you need to give it some help? Is it for example powerful, fast, quiet?
  • Usability: Is the product easy to handle, easy to use and maintain?
  • Price: Is the price of the product and/or accessories and/or spare parts reasonable compared to the rest of the market?

In addition to these main criteria, we then establish a list of specific criteria for each product category, detailed a little further down in this article.

In the end, the products we recommend are the ones we would want to buy, and the ones we would also choose for our friends and family.

Things to Know Before Buying a Light Therapy Lamp

What is Light Therapy? 

Light therapy is a method of treating Seasonal Affective Disorder, and a few other conditions related to a lack of light during winter months or cloudy days such as circadian rhythm issues and mood disorders. Light therapy can also be used for sleep issues or for energy-deficiencies during the day.

During light therapy, you sit in front of a light box that emits a certain type and strength of light to mimic a bright and sunny day. Typical sessions range from 15 minutes to an hour depending on your individual circumstances and light strength. Most light therapy is conducted as soon as you wake up, but many patients use the light box multiple times a day for a greater effect. 

How Does Light Therapy Work? 

Light therapy works by stimulating the production of serotonin and melatonin in the body, a response that is typically triggered by sunlight. Serotonin is often referred to as a happy hormone because it influences well-being; this is why light therapy can help treat depression.

Melatonin regulates sleep-wake cycles and is the reason light therapy is so effective at treating disorders including SAD, sleep disorders, jetlag, and many others.

Who Should Use Light Therapy? 

If you are affected by depression, senile dementia, jetlag, shiftwork struggles, insomnia or other sleep disorders, or SAD, then light therapy can benefit you. All of these conditions/disorders can be improved by the hormones serotonin and/or melatonin that are released in the body as a result of light therapy. 

How Do I use My Light Therapy Lamp? 

There are a few important things to remember when using a light therapy lamp that will ensure you are safe, and that the treatment is effective. The first thing is your schedule. It is best to do treatments in the morning shortly after waking up, and to do them at the same time each day since consistency is beneficial. 

The next thing to keep in mind is the duration of each session. A typical session lasts 20-30 minutes; if you are using a lower Lux light or are sitting farther away from the light then the guidelines recommend (usually 16 to 24 inches), this duration will need to be extended in order to receive the same benefit. 

The angle of the light is also an important detail you won’t want to forget. The lamp should be positioned high enough that your eyes are level with the center of the lamp, and it should be on a 15-degree angle so it points slightly down over you. 

The most vital thing to remember while using your light therapy lamp is to not look directly at the light. You should always be reading, working, or another similar activity in order to ensure the light reaches your eyes directly but you are not staring at it. 

Are There Side Effects of Using the Lamps? 

Light therapy lamps are very safe, but there are some side effects that you should be aware of before use. Eyestrain, headaches, nausea, and irritability can arise during or after use, but they are temporary and quite minor. If you have bipolar disorder, the light therapy may trigger mania, euphoria, hyperactivity or anxiety. 

If you are taking any medications, make sure you consult with your doctor before using your lamp. Some drugs have photosensitivity as a side effect, so when paired with light therapy, may result in rash or sunburn. 

How Long Does Treatment Take? 

For some conditions, improvement can be seen just a few days after starting treatment. However, it is important to keep in mind that light therapy is not the end-all be-all of treatments. Light therapy should be used in combination with other therapies in order to get the most out of it and see the best results. Treatment length will be affected by the type and severity of the condition you are treating, any combination with other therapies, and the type and strength of the lamp you purchase.

 

How to Properly Choose Your Light Therapy Lamp

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  • Price

As is to be expected, your budget will make the most difference in which lamp you go for in the end. The biggest difference between the expensive versus affordable lamps lies in the variety of features as well as the aesthetic design. Typically, if you want something basic that just gets the job done, you can go for a cheaper lamp and save a bit of money. 

  • Lux

The Lux of your lamp is also a huge determining factor in which lamp will be right for you. While most lamps are 10,000 Lux at the appropriate distance, this may be too bright for some who have more sensitive eyes, so a 5000 Lux lamp may work better for you if you have the time to use it more often, or for longer durations to get the same effect as a 10,000 Lux lamp. 10,000 lux is optimal for replicating a sunny day, and they usually come with brightness settings or a glare lens to reduce eye strain and fatigue. 

  • Light Type

Most lamps have white light, but some offer blue light instead or even a combination of white and blue light. Most users prefer the white light, but this is still something to consider if you know blue light is better for you or if you want to try both. Full spectrum lamps are also worth considering, even though they are typically more expensive. Talking to your doctor is a good idea since the type of light you need may change depending on whether you’re battling Seasonal Affective Disorder, a circadian rhythm disorder, or something else. 

  • Timer

It is important that your therapy sessions are done for the right duration, as the length affects how much light you receive and therefore the amount of hormone production that occurs as a result. If you are a person who gets easily distracted or you just simply want something keeping you on schedule, a light therapy lamp with a timer is a must have. 

  • Brightness Settings

Some lamps have a simple on/off switch, but others come with 2 or three brightness levels that are easily adjustable. If you’re unsure about your comfort level with such a bright light, or want to make sure that the lamp won’t distract coworkers, choosing a lamp that has multiple brightness levels is essential. 

  • Size and Flexibility of the Lamp

Since size and positioning of the lamp is so crucial to your treatment’s effectiveness, purchasing a lamp that is adaptable to different environments can be a blessing. Whether you are setting up your lamp while sitting in bed, at a table, on the couch, or elsewhere, a lamp with flexibility will allow you to be comfortable and get an effective treatment no matter where you choose to set up. Choosing the right size lamp is also important since different lamps have varied screen sizes which can impact how well the light hits you. 

  • Extra Features

As with any product, special features can make or break the product. Some lamps have a tilt feature, are touch-screen operated, or have extras like ion-therapy integrated into the lamp. Paying attention to special features will ensure that you get everything you need from your lamp, whether it’s a boost to your treatment or a greater convenience factor during use.

 

We do our best to provide you with a comparative guide of Light Therapy Lamps allowing you to choose the best product possible. If we are missing information or new models, do not hesitate to leave a comment below or to send us a message.

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