UK bargain retailer B&M has sparked fresh interest among homeware shoppers after launching a new lamp priced at just £20, half the price of a similar-looking £40 lamp sold by Dunelm.
As households continue to tighten spending in 2025, the comparison has quickly gained attention across social media and bargain-hunting forums.
This article breaks down how the two lamps compare on price, design, size, and value, and what the growing trend says about UK consumer behaviour.
What exactly is the new B&M lamp everyone is talking about?
B&M’s Large Paper Rope Lamp, priced at £20, is part of the retailer’s push into affordable, trend-led home décor. The lamp features:
- A natural rattan-style base
- A neutral cream lampshade
- A soft, earthy look designed to suit modern UK interiors
The design mirrors the popular “Scandi-meets-boho” style that has dominated UK homeware trends over the past two years, especially among renters and first-time buyers.
B&M has also released a smaller version priced at £12, making the range accessible for tighter budgets or smaller spaces.
How does the B&M lamp compare to Dunelm’s version?
The closest match from Dunelm is the Kylo Woven String Table Lamp, retailing at £40. While not identical, both lamps share a similar design language.
B&M vs Dunelm lamps
| Feature | B&M Large Paper Rope Lamp | Dunelm Kylo Woven String Lamp |
|---|---|---|
| Price | £20 | £40 |
| Base material | Rattan-style | Rattan |
| Shade | Plain cream | Patterned cream |
| Height | 42.5cm | 52cm |
| Width | 28cm | 24cm |
| Retailer | B&M | Dunelm |
While Dunelm’s lamp is taller and features a more decorative shade, B&M’s option offers a similar aesthetic at 50% less cost.
Why are shoppers comparing B&M and Dunelm homeware now?
UK consumers have become far more price-aware following ongoing cost-of-living pressures between 2023 and 2025. According to retail analysts, shoppers are increasingly:
- Comparing high-street and discount retailers
- Prioritising visual style over brand loyalty
- Looking for “dupes” that deliver the same look for less
A B&M spokesperson previously said in a retail statement: “Customers want trend-led home décor that doesn’t stretch their budget.”
This shift explains why comparisons like the b&m lamp Dunelm comparison are trending across search and social platforms.
Is Dunelm’s lamp of better quality?
Dunelm remains one of the UK’s most trusted homeware brands, known for durability and design consistency. Customer reviews for the Kylo lamp are strong.
According to Dunelm’s website (review data current as of 2025), the lamp holds an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, with customers praising:
- Build quality
- Stability
- Soft ambient lighting
One verified customer review states: “Looks far more expensive than it is and fits perfectly in our living room.”
B&M’s lamp, while cheaper, is aimed more at trend-led, short-to-medium-term styling rather than premium longevity.
Where do you go to buy homegoods in the UK? – Reddit discussionRedditors list popular UK stores for homewares including B&M, Dunelm, IKEA and more — highlighting value shopping for lamps, bedding, accessories.
“From cheapest to most expensive: B&M, supermarket homewares, IKEA, Dunelm, John Lewis” — user comments from r/AskUK
Does cheaper always mean better value?
Not necessarily. Value depends on what shoppers prioritise:
- Choose B&M if you want affordable style, trend-led design, or a quick room refresh
- Choose Dunelm if you want longer-lasting materials, detailed finishes, and brand reassurance
For many UK households, B&M’s lamp offers a visually similar alternative without the £40 price tag.
