World Globe Buying Guide

Your decision to purchase a globe, whether for yourself, a friend, or a loved one will bring joy for years to come, and our world globe buying guide can help make that decision easy.

To assist in your decision, we have narrowed down the road to the following four considerations; size, color, features, and purpose. Each of these plays an essential part in the decision to buy a globe, and we will share why.

1. SIZE MATTERS

One of the most important aspects of purchasing a globe is determining the right size. Too small, and it may get lost in your decor or not provide the level of information you would like. Too large, and it may be overwhelming for your room or desk.

Decorative Floor GlobesTo get started, measure the area you plan to place your globe and refer to the assembled size on the product page, keeping in mind that the diameter of a world globe may not be the same as the space required. Many floor globes include a wood ring around the world globe requiring more space.

The standard size for a desk globe is a 12-inch diameter, and the standard floor globe is has a 16-inch diameter. These are typically suitable dimensions in most homes and offices.

If you are looking to decorate a lobby, library, or larger office or home space, you may want to look for a 20-inch diameter or larger. It is relatively common that the larger the globe, the more information that it will contain.

2. COLOR

Light & Color Designer Series Globes

Of course, when decorating, one of the essential considerations is color. We have categorized our globes by color to make it easier for you to find the perfect match for your needs.

However, not all colors are represented in each size or stand style, so sometimes compromise is required to get a globe that contains the features you are looking for and fits the space you desire to fill.

3. FEATURES

Hand Applied Maps

Globes have many features, from raised relief to illumination. If looking to purchase an illuminated globe, keep in mind that in most cases, a power source will is necessary. Most world globes are assembled or come with a cord that is between five and six feet long. If your location does not provide for close access to power, you may want to stick with a non-illuminated style.

4. PURPOSE

Understanding your intended use for the globe is also essential. It is necessary to realize that typically the larger the world globe, the more information contained. If your primary purpose is for reference, then stick to the recommended sizes of 12-inch diameter globes or larger. Smaller world globes will provide less information.

Your Globes Purpose

One caveat is decorative globes that you find described as minimalist map design or designer series globes. These globes have only a small number of named places and points of interest when compared to others. These are great for decorative purposes, but typically do not provide all the information someone may seek for reference.

Hopefully, you will find these points in our world globe buying guide to be beneficial to your decision in purchasing a globe. If you still have questions feel free to contact our Support department for additional details.