The short answer
A skylight (or flat rooflight) sits flush with or close to the roofline and is the simpler, lower-cost option, typically £800–£2,600 installed. A roof lantern is a raised, multi-faceted glazed structure that sits proud of the roof as an architectural feature, lets in light from several angles, and costs more — installed lanterns commonly run from around £2,250 up to £3,600+, with large bespoke units higher still. A lantern generally gives more light and a greater sense of height, but a flush rooflight of the same opening is cheaper to supply and fit. The right choice balances the light and look you want against budget and roof type.
Skylights and roof lanterns do the same basic job — bring daylight in through the roof — but they look, perform and cost very differently. Here is how they compare.
At a glance
- Skylight / rooflightflush, simpler, ~£800–£2,600
- Roof lanternraised feature, ~£2,250–£3,600+
- Most lightroof lantern
- Lower costflush rooflight
- Best on flat roofs / extensionseither, by look
How they differ
A skylight or flat rooflight sits flush with the roof, giving a clean, modern look and a straightforward fit. A roof lantern is a raised structure with sloping glazed sides that rises above the roofline, so it draws light from multiple angles and adds height and a sense of architecture inside. Lanterns are common over kitchen extensions where the feature is wanted; flush rooflights suit a lower-profile, lower-cost result. Both can work on a flat roof — the decision is as much about look as cost.
| Skylight / rooflight | Roof lantern | |
|---|---|---|
| Profile | flush / low | raised feature |
| Light | good, single plane | more, multiple angles |
| Typical fitted cost | £800–£2,600 | ~£2,250–£3,600+ |
| Look | clean, modern | architectural, period or contemporary |
General comparison for guidance. Costs depend on size, glazing and roof. Sources: Checkatrade and MyJobQuote cost guides.
How to choose for your room
- Tight budget or simple brief? a flush rooflight is the lowest-priced way to bring daylight in.
- Want a feature over a kitchen or dining extension? a roof lantern adds height and light from several angles.
- Flat extension roof? both work — the choice is the look you want and what your budget allows.
- Multiple openings? two or three flush rooflights can rival a lantern's light for less, with a different aesthetic.
Want both options priced?
We'll match you with a vetted roof-window installer who measures your roof and quotes the rooflight and lantern options side by side on a clear specification.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a skylight and a roof lantern?
A skylight or flat rooflight sits flush with the roof for a clean, low-profile look, while a roof lantern is a raised, multi-faceted glazed structure that rises above the roofline and draws light from several angles as an architectural feature.
Is a roof lantern more expensive than a skylight?
Generally yes. A flush rooflight typically costs £800–£2,600 installed, while a roof lantern commonly runs from around £2,250 up to £3,600 or more, with large bespoke units higher still.
Which lets in more light, a skylight or a roof lantern?
A roof lantern usually lets in more light because its sloping glazed sides draw daylight from multiple angles, though two or three flush rooflights can rival it for a different look and often less cost.
Sources & further reading
Figures on this page are typical UK ranges drawn from published sources and depend on your specific property. They are guidance, not a quotation.