Occasionally, a gadget captures your imagination so thoroughly that it becomes a recurring theme in your dreams. You envision it gracing your desk beside your best 4K TV, or adorning a wall like a delightful display of donuts.
The quirky, donut-shaped Varmblixt lamp from IKEA is that captivating product, and I haven't been able to stop thinking about this Bluetooth lamp since I first encountered it at CES 2026.
While the Varmblixt isn't entirely new, this updated version boasts a sleek glossy finish and a variety of colors. Let's delve into what makes this $99 lamp so irresistible.
Shaped like a giant donut (approximately one foot in diameter), the Varmblixt has no visible seams. Although I noticed a power cord, I was intrigued by how IKEA managed to integrate it into the smooth, toroidal design. Upon flipping the lamp, I discovered a cleverly concealed plastic base that not only houses the power cord but also includes a slot for wall mounting.
The Varmblixt invites tactile interaction. Even before IKEA representatives elaborated on the product, I found myself running my hands over its smooth glass surface, mesmerized by its glow.
At CES 2026, the display featured nearly a dozen of these lamps, which was fitting since the upgraded Varmblixt now offers 12 distinct colors, including the original orange, as well as new shades like white, amber, red, pink, lavender, and turquoise.
A significant enhancement is the Matter over Thread integration, allowing the Varmblixt to seamlessly connect with virtually any smart home platform, including Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Home.
I'm pleased that IKEA retained the small physical remote, enabling users to access all 12 colors without needing to connect the lamp to an app. For those who prefer app control, it expands the customization options to 40 distinct hues.
One of the reasons I'm enamored with the Varmblixt is its remote. Unlike many other Bluetooth LED lighting systems that switch colors abruptly, the Varmblixt transitions smoothly.
With each press of the remote, I observed the color shift almost imperceptibly, gradually transitioning to a new, fully dimmable hue. The color diffusion beneath the molded glass is nearly flawless—it's a delight to behold, and I reveled in its warm glow.
Function Meets Form
This harmonious blend of design and color choices is a testament to the vision of Dutch artist Sabine Marcelis. The color transitions resemble a symphony rather than a mere switch, perfectly complementing the Varmblixt's elegant aesthetics.
Another appealing aspect of the Varmblixt is its simplicity—no hubs required, just the option to use the remote or the app.
It makes one wonder if the Philips Hue lineup would have the same allure if it prioritized design and simplicity to this extent.
I can't help but dream of a rechargeable, truly wireless version of the Varmblixt; then my vision of a wall adorned with these lamps could become a reality.
Despite being a more advanced and powerful model, the Varmblixt will retail for just $99 (prices may vary outside the US) when it launches in April.
While it may just be a lamp, the best tech products often excel at a singular function. The Varmblixt appears to achieve this, and with one or more of these donut lamps in your home, they are sure to become conversation starters. Whether controlled via app, voice, or the handy remote, expect to elicit plenty of 'oohs' and 'ahhs'.
Additionally, there is another Varmblixt option—a large hanging LED pendant light resembling a cluster of hanging 'U's. This variant currently only supports white light and will also be available in April for $149. However, it hasn't captured my imagination in the same way.