Outdoor sconces are a significant design element that cannot be overlooked. Besides lighting your outdoor space, they add a “wow” factor to your backyard, driveway, or porch. In the past, these light fixtures got paired with oil lamps or candles. But today, they work with LEDs and other bulb types to deliver warmth to otherwise shadowy stoops and enhance your home’s aesthetics.
That said, shopping for the best outdoor sconces might prove difficult since there are many options available in the market. But worry not! We’re here to help you.
In this guide, you will learn everything you need to know about outdoor sconces, including factors to consider when buying one. Also, you will discover a list of the best outdoor sconces in the market to help you make an informed purchase.
Without further delay, let’s dive in!
Factors to Consider When Selecting the Best Outdoor Sconces
Most people consider style as the primary factor when selecting light fixtures. However, that’s not the only factor you need to keep in mind. Below we will discuss other important considerations to help you choose an outdoor sconce that will meet all your needs.
Budget and Cost
Before shopping, you need to create a budget. That’s because light fixtures come in varying price ranges. How much are you willing to spend on the products? Do you plan to change your entire outdoor lighting system? Do you have enough money to complete the project?
Shopping without a budget is risky since you might end up buying the wrong sconces on impulse. So, take your time to create one before visiting an online shop.
Having a budget prevents overspending, helps you stay on track when shopping, and gives you more control over your money.
Size
Very simple. Ensure that the sconce is proportionate to the size of your area. For instance, if you have a large outdoor area, use a large sconce and vice versa. If you do not get something proportional, it will just look out of place and make your house look unattractive, which is something nobody would want to experience.
Style
To find the best outdoor sconce for your home, you need to know what style of outdoor wall sconce you want and how it will match your existing home decor. Outdoor lighting fixtures fall into three basic categories: traditional, transitional, and modern. Think about the overall theme of your outdoor space as well. Is it formal, casual, or somewhere in between? Here are some examples of popular styles:
- Traditional
- Classic, formal
- Commonly used in colonials and farmhouses
- Lanterns with frosted glass panes
- Transitional
- Casual and comfortable
- Appropriate for many designs styles
- Wire accents and seeded glass panels
- Modern
- Clean lines; no unnecessary embellishments
The right style is a matter of personal preference. Selecting one that matches the rest of your house creates unity in your exterior design.
Finish Color
As a general rule of thumb, you should match the finish color of your outdoor sconce with the color of your home. For example, homes with modern design styles look great with a brushed nickel or chrome finish. Similarly, homes with traditional design styles look great with bronze finishes.
Mounting Height
When you’re mounting your outdoor sconces, it’s crucial to know the right height. The ideal mounting height is eye level, but this can be difficult to achieve if you’ve got a lot of people with different heights regularly walking through your space. Aim for 6 to 7.5 feet above the ground where possible. Keep your outdoor sconces at least 4 feet above the ground, too, especially if you have smaller children who might bump their heads on them.
Applications
Outdoor lighting is a staple in any household, but it’s rarely used to its full potential. The traditional lamp or porch light is a basic tool for illuminating the surrounding space, but outdoor lighting doesn’t have to be limited to those inflexible fixtures.
Outdoor modern sconces are utility tools that can look amazing on your deck, patio, or backyard fence. They lend a stylish ambiance to your outdoor areas and can offer an extra sense of security when all you have is one bulb on a string. When installed correctly, they’re perfect for providing light in dark areas and enhancing security with their bright glow.
Weather Resistance
When selecting outdoor lighting for your home, you want to be sure that the lights are resistant to weather and can withstand rain, humidity, and dampness. Sconces designed for indoor use will not stand up to the elements.
When shopping, ensure the manufacturer has indicated that the sconce is appropriate for damp locations. This is especially important if you live in an area with frequent rain or near a body of water.
Best Outdoor Wall Sconce Modern
WIHTU Motion Sensor Outdoor Wall Lights
Are you looking for an advanced modern technology core wall sconce developed with various innovative products? Then the WIHTU Motion Sensor outdoor wall sconce is one to consider. The outdoor light has an advanced motion sensor that quickly detects movements, and it automatically turns on dim light at dusk and then activates to 100% high light once it detects motion.
Features
WIHTU Motion Sensor wall sconce features a wider 40FT lighting area and a 220-degree motion-detection range. It is made from tempered seed glass, which makes it weather-resistant, allowing it to resist storms easily. There is also a premium metal material that blends with the tempered glass to create a waterproof and anti-corrosion structure.
You’ll love the flexibility of this outdoor wall sconce that comes with two motion modes, auto mode and override mode. The manual override mode lets you turn the lights for 8 hours or until it detects the morning light.
The WIHTU Motion Sensor light is easy to use and install since it has an E26 base to fit your bulb of choice and has all the required mounting equipment you might need.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Motion sensor technology | Lacks proper programming instructions |
| Two motion modes | |
| Compatible with dimmable bulbs |
Cylinder Collection Modern Outdoor Wall Lantern Light
Style up your home using the Cylinder Collection Modern outdoor sconce with a sleek modern design. It is the perfect home outdoor décor for those seeking to upgrade their exterior space.
Features
This wall light features a stylish design of a smooth cylinder with a silhouette that connects to a modern backplate. The entire structure is made from durable die-cast aluminum construction that ensures it serves you longer. A beautiful black finish complements all these components, making it versatile for residential and commercial settings.
Progress Lighting, the proud manufacturer of this sleek wall sconce, designed this outdoor light with a powder coat finish to promote durability. The die-cast aluminum brackets and heavy-duty aluminum frame protect your light from harsh weather conditions.
Apart from its aesthetical appeal, it is easy to install and operate the light, making it worth every penny. Progress Lighting also has a 1-year limited warranty guarantee.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sleek modern design that is versatile | The finish tends to fade fast at times |
| Enhanced durability | |
| Beautiful black finish |
CINOTON 2 Pack Classic Dusk to Dawn Outdoor Wall Sconce
Here is a vintage wall sconce designed to bring a relaxing and retro feeling to your home. Improve your quality of life at home with this farmhouse light that is easy to install and naturally blends with your porch, living space, garage, etc.
Features
CINOTON 2 Pack Classic Dusk To Dawn Outdoor Wall Sconce has an exquisite white interior that reflects the light perfectly and creates an elegant atmosphere. The white reflective interior blends with the matte black exterior finish. It is also made with a general metallic construction that helps resist strong winds and snow. Furthermore, its stable paint coating complements the lamp’s corrosion resistance ability.
This dusk to dawn outdoor light has a durable sensor that automatically turns on at night and auto-off at day. The stable light detector featured quickly detects light intensity to help it determine when to power on or off, saving you time.
The CINOTON 2 Pack Classic Dusk To Dawn Outdoor Wall Sconce is more expansive and brighter than other wall sconces. It is 10*10*11.5 inches, resulting in a more extensive irradiation range strong enough to illuminate the ground.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Waterproof | Lacks the manual override feature available in another dusk to dawn wall sconces |
| Easily withstands bad weather | |
| Wide application |
Cerdeco 37858TZ Brandon Aluminum Modern Outdoor Wall Light
![Cerdeco 37858TZ Brandon Aluminum Modern Outdoor Wall Light, Exterior Up Down Light Fixtures Matte Black [UL Listed]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51+w07fl+mS._SL500_.jpg)
Experience significant lighting effects with Cerdeco, one of the leading brands specializing in home lighting. This brand guarantees premium quality in all its products. And one such product is the Cerdeco 37858TZ Brandon Aluminum Modern Outdoor Wall Light.
Features
Enjoy the tremendous up-down lighting effect created by Cerdeco Modern Outdoor Wall Light in your garage space, front door, stairs, patio, and porch areas. The light has a refined modern tower design made from thick solid aluminum complemented by a stylish greyish finish that will make your home dazzle.
Thanks to the solid aluminum material, the light is carefully crafted to make it waterproof and rustproof. Cerdeco Modern Outdoor Wall Light is UL listed, meaning it’s tested and approved to meet all the UL requirements, and it’s safe for use.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Weather-proof and rust-resistant | The color fades after extended exposure to extreme heat |
| UL Listed | |
| Washable and easy to clean | |
| Able to withstand continuous, direct sunshine |
MOTINI Dusk to Dawn Exterior Wall Sconce
MOTINI Dusk to Dawn Exterior Wall Sconce is the ideal outdoor light for those living in wet locations. The lamp is ETL listed for these areas, and you are guaranteed full light coverage at all times.
Features
MOTINI Dusk to Dawn Exterior Wall Sconce takes on an elegant modern design featuring weather-clear glass. It has an oil-brushed bronze black finish, giving your space a relaxed and sophisticated vibe. The light is waterproof IP23, making it ideal for outdoor use.
This dusk to dawn wall sconce has an effective motion sensor featuring two sensor technologies to ensure smart lighting. The system auto-turns on to 30% brightness at sunset, then to 100% full brightness when the sensor detects motion. Your family is safe every time since this 6*7*12.5 inches lamp illuminates the space effectively.
Four mode options are available to help you operate the lamp: standby mode, Test mode, auto mode, and manual override. It takes a few minutes to fully install this great product, as it comes with all the required mounting equipment and simple instructions.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ideal for wet locations | The sensor light flashes red, which might be a concern to others |
| Versatile motion sensor with four modes | |
| Easy to install and versatile |
Best Contemporary Outdoor Wall Sconces
Globe Electric 44176 Bowery 1-Light Outdoor Indoor Wall Sconce
If you need a vintage-inspired contemporary wall sconce to add the correct embellishment to your home, the Globe Electric Outdoor Wall Sconce is your product. This light is very versatile, as it has clean lines that make it ideal for outdoor and indoor use.
Features
Globe Electric Outdoor Wall Sconce has a modern design with a classic black matte finish to complement any décor in your entryway. It has clear glass panes to ensure maximum light coverage while showcasing your bulb. The result of the elements combined is a warm and inviting effect.
This light is easy to install as it comes with all the required mounting hardware to ensure quick installation. Thanks to its weather-resistant feature, you have the freedom to install the lantern in any location. Globe Electric Outdoor Wall Sconce has a sturdy metal construction that allows the light to withstand strong winds, rain, and snow.
You’ll have to purchase the bulb separately, and the suggested option is the medium base LED 60W. Get yourself this globe vintage light to complete your home’s look.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Weather-resistant | You’ll have to purchase the bulb |
| Ideal for outdoor and indoor use | |
| Classic look |
.
Hykolity Large Size Dusk to Dawn Outdoor Wall Lantern
Experience excellent ambient lighting to brighten up your entryway, balcony, or patio with the Hykolity Large Size Dusk to Dawn Outdoor Wall Lanterns. It is the perfect outdoor wall light fixture and décor for all outdoor spaces.
Features
Hykolity Large Size Dusk to Dawn Outdoor Wall Lantern is made of heavy-duty rugged metal construction that makes it sturdy, allowing it to withstand harsh weather conditions. The rigid metal construction also makes the light durable. Any lantern with such features is versatile and works well even in wet locations.
It’s safe to use this ETL-certified lantern that provides high-efficiency lighting with uniform distribution. The good thing about this product is it produces no UV or IR radiation. Hykolity Large Size Dusk to Dawn Outdoor Wall Lantern has no hum or sound that might distract your sleep.
There is a 1-year limited warranty against any defect under regular use and proper installation. Enjoy quick and convenient installation with Hykolity Large Size Dusk to Dawn Outdoor Wall Lantern.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 100% safe and ETL certified | You need some experience screwing in the open bottom |
| Rugged metal construction for durability | |
| Weather-resistant |
Architectural Outdoor Wall Light
The Architectural Outdoor Wall Sconce is a sleek and modern design that is made to look like it’s effortlessly floating on your wall. It can be mounted in two different ways—horizontally or vertically—and it comes with all the hardware you need (including a stainless-steel mounting plate). The frosted glass shade will make this a staple piece that looks good with any type of home and style.
Features
This bronze-finished fixture is hand-crafted from solid brass and features an opal glass shade for a clean, simple look. It has no visible welds or seams and features either an unlacquered natural finish that will develop a rich patina over time or an oil-rubbed bronze finish for added durability. This fixture can be mounted horizontally or vertically along any exterior wall, making it ideal for walkways, driveways, entrances, stairwells, and more.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy to install | Some reviewers said that the color of the fixture fades easily |
| Offer you value for your money | |
| IP54 Rating |
Radiance Goods Transitional LED Textured Outdoor Wall Sconce in Black
The Transitional LED Outdoor Wall Sconce in Black from Radiance will light up your porch, patio, or backyard. This fixture can be used as an above-door accent or as a pathway light to guide guests through your space. These lights use high-efficiency integrated LEDs, which are long-lasting and use very little electricity. It’s dimmable with a dimmer switch (not included).
Features
This fixture is made from steel with a black finish that adds style to any contemporary space. It’s also weatherproofed, so you don’t have to worry about leaving it out during rainstorms or blizzards. The Transitional LED Outdoor Wall Sconce comes equipped with an LED bulb, but you can purchase other bulbs if you prefer different wattage or styles.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Waterproof and dustproof | It’s not that thick |
| Convenient for both indoor and outdoor | |
| Elegant design |
Hamilton Hills New Modern Half Moon LED Wall Sconce
Give your home an elegant glimpse with the Hamilton Hills Half Moon LED Wall Sconce that has a sophisticated and clean modern design. The light features a glass-free frosted sconce with beautiful angles for even light distribution.
Features
The Hamilton Hills New Modern Half Moon LED Wall Sconce is a modern wall sconce with brushed nickel finishes. This 3000K white LED light brings a warmer feeling and has exceptional color accuracy. Its sleek circular design makes it a great addition to your home, and it has an adjustable hanging bracket that you can use to place the light where you want.
This authentic lantern is energy efficient, with an energy star rating. It has an approximated lifespan of 50,000 hours with no bulb replacement needed. Another great feature is the conventional dimmers with no flickers and produces a gentle light to the eye.
You can use your Hamilton Hills New Modern Half Moon LED Wall Sconce even in damp locations. Hamilton Hills uses exceptional quality products to ensure your lantern serves you longer and more effectively. This wall sconce is worth every penny since it meets all the required standards and tests.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Certified for the US and Canada | It has no heat sink; therefore, it might lose brightness over extended use |
| Exceptional quality | |
| Effective conventional dimmers |
Unique Outdoor Wall Sconce
LONEDRUID Led Outdoor Wall Light Fixtures Bronze 21.26’H Exterior Wall Lantern
If you need a unique outdoor wall sconce piece to revitalize your home’s décor, then look no further than LONEDRUID Led Outdoor Wall sconce. It’s a vintage and classy lantern that’s versatile and suitable for indoor use.
Features
The LONEDRUID Led Outdoor Wall Sconce is a 9.49” *13.58” *21.26” light made of high-quality material. The thickened aluminum material creates a sturdy construction to protect all components from external damage. Its die-casting aluminum is also responsible for preventing rust and corrosion.
There is a frosted glass shape that creates a unique light effect. This frosted glass and the bronze finish make the unique vintage look that adds a distinctive effect to your outdoor space.
If you’re still wondering if this is the right option for you, you’ll be pleased to hear that the LONEDRUID Led Outdoor Wall sconce passed the IP65 waterproof test. This guarantees you adequate lighting when it rains or snows. In addition, its E26 base passes the UL safety test, which helps prolong your bulb’s lifespan.
It is important to note that you’ll have to purchase the bulb of your choice to use in the LONEDRUID Led Outdoor Wall sconce. The wall sconce is compatible with any E26 base bulb, and the maximum bulb wattage is 100w.
Since the package includes all the required components, you’ll have an easy time assembling and installing your LONEDRUID Led Outdoor Wall sconce. In the package, there’s a wall mount, glass shade, mounting hardware, and a manual to guide you through the process.
More good news is that there is a 1-year limited warranty on this product. Therefore, you do not need to worry when purchasing the LONEDRUID Led Outdoor Wall sconce.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Outdoor weather resistant | You’ll need to purchase your bulb |
| Rust and corrosion-resistant | |
| UL Listed with E26 bulb case |
Conclusion
Sconces are a great way to make your outdoor areas more interesting. Whether you have a large or small outdoor space, you can use outdoor sconces to add character. Outdoor sconces can be used in several ways and they come in many styles, sizes, and materials to meet your needs. You can find them made from copper, brass, iron, glass, or even concrete. They are available in traditional lanterns and modern designs as well.
That said, these beautiful outdoor wall sconces will make your space feel updated, more luxurious, and elegant. Go through our comprehensive guide and find the best outdoor sconce that will meet your needs.