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This Easy Upgrade Can Transform Your Outdoor Space

Improve the curb appeal of your home and enjoy your outdoor spaces after dark by installing stylish and functional outdoor wall lights.

Best Overall

Best Outdoor Wall Lights Option: Govee Smart Outdoor Wall Light

Govee Smart Outdoor Wall Light

Best Bang For The Buck

The Best Outdoor Wall Lights Option: Design House Jelly Jar Classic Indoor_Outdoor Light

Design House Jelly Jar Classic Wall Light

Best Smart

The Best Outdoor Wall Lights Option: Philips Hue Econic Outdoor White & Color Wall

Philips Hue Econic Outdoor Wall Light

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Outdoor wall lights illuminate patios, porches, and entryways while enhancing both security and curb appeal. The best outdoor wall lights include features like motion sensors, dusk-to-dawn operation, and dimmable settings, ensuring they provide the right level of brightness when needed. We tested multiple top-rated models to find the most durable, stylish, and functional options for different outdoor spaces.

Choosing high-quality outdoor lighting is essential for long-lasting performance and efficiency. Factors like weather resistance, energy efficiency, and ease of installation can make a big difference in their functionality. While we tested several top contenders, we also researched additional highly rated models that are worth considering. After thorough testing, we found that Govee’s Smart outdoor wall light stands out for its modern design, bright customizable lights, and simple app control, making it our top pick.

To help find the best outdoor wall lights for any application, we’ve broken down our recommendations by style, features, and performance. Keep reading for our top picks and expert shopping tips.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Govee Smart Outdoor Wall Light
    ↓ Jump to Review
  2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Design House Jelly Jar Classic Wall Light
    ↓ Jump to Review
  3. BEST SMART: Philips Hue Econic Outdoor Wall Light
    ↓ Jump to Review
  4. BEST DESIGN: Globe Electric Hurley Outdoor Wall Sconce 
    ↓ Jump to Review
  5. BEST MODERN: Mirrea Modern Outdoor Porch Light
    ↓ Jump to Review
  6. BEST MOTION-SENSING: Urpower SL-002 Outdoor Solar Motion Sensor Lights
    ↓ Jump to Review
  7. BEST FLOOD LIGHTS: Leonlite LED Motion Sensor Flood Lights 
    ↓ Jump to Review
  8. BEST VINTAGE: Lonedruid Dusk-to-Dawn Outdoor Wall Light
    ↓ Jump to Review
  9. BEST MINIMALIST: Hamilton Hills Flush Mount Outdoor Light Fixture
    ↓ Jump to Review
  10. MOST VERSATILE: Otdair Solar LED Lights
    ↓ Jump to Review
Govee Outdoor Light
Photo: Paul Rankin for Bob Vila

Our Top Picks

We tested and researched a range of outdoor lighting fixtures to find the best options for style, durability, and performance. Shoppers looking for a security-focused light, a decorative fixture, or an energy-efficient choice will find that our top picks cover a variety of needs. Read on for the best exterior home lighting in multiple categories.cks for the best outdoor wall lights in a range of categories.

Best Overall

Globe Electric Sebastien Outdoor Wall Sconce

 Best Outdoor Wall Lights Option: Govee Smart Outdoor Wall Light
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Easy app control
  • Can blend multiple colors for cool effects
  • Modern design fits in anywhere
  • Adjustable brightness

What We Don’t Like

  • Mounting plate limits placement options

Specs

  • Type: Flush
  • Material: Aluminum housing, plastic exterior
  • Finish(es): Black
  • Compatible Bulb(s): Built-in

Our Ratings

Installation4/5Brightness5/5Durability5/5Value5/5

The Govee Smart Outdoor Wall Light comes well-packaged with two fixtures, clear installation instructions, and all necessary hardware except for a screwdriver and caulk to seal the edges. Installation is straightforward, though the mounting plate requires precise alignment since the light hooks onto it rather than screwing into an adjustable bracket. This design demands a bit more attention during setup but doesn’t pose a major challenge.

Once installed, these modern exterior lamps were the most impressive we tested. The maximum brightness is powerful, providing excellent illumination, and the millions of color options allow for customization to match any occasion or season. The companion app is intuitive and user-friendly, making it easy to adjust colors, brightness, and scheduling.

Ultimately, the Govee Smart Outdoor Wall Lights stood out as our favorite option. Their combination of brightness, smart features, and sleek design made them the clear winner—we even decided to keep them installed at the front of the house.

What our tester says: “This is a super versatile outdoor light that you can adjust exactly to your liking. The colors are bright and amazing, and I love that you can blend several colors together for a cool effect.” —Paul Rankin, Product Reviews tester and writer.

Get the Govee smart outdoor wall lights on Amazon or Govee

Best Bang For The Buck

Design House Jelly Jar Classic Wall Light

 The Best Outdoor Wall Lights Option: Design House Jelly Jar Classic Indoor_Outdoor Light
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Simple setup
  • Very affordable price
  • Multiple finishes to choose from

What We Don’t Like

  • A little small
  • Pin holding the glass in place is quite flimsy

Specs

  • Type: Semi-flush
  • Material: Glass and steel
  • Finish(es): Oil rubbed bronze, white, satin nickel, or black
  • Compatible Bulb(s): 60W medium base bulb (E26)

Our Ratings

Installation5/5Brightness4/5Durability4/5Value4.3/5

The Design House Jelly Jar outdoor light is a compact and budget-friendly option that delivers basic outdoor illumination. The packaging is simple, reflecting the no-frills design of the fixture itself. While it’s a good fit for tight spaces, it may feel undersized for larger areas. The ribbed glass shade, secured by a single screw pin, felt a bit flimsy but held in place well enough. It accommodates standard bulbs: larger ones may look out of proportion inside the small jar.

This outdoor wall lamp is easy to install and includes everything needed except a screwdriver. The light mounts to an adjustable backing plate, making positioning easier than some other budget-friendly options, and while the overall build quality isn’t the most robust, it’s a decent value for the price, offering a classic, low-profile look with functional lighting.

Get the Design House outdoor wall lights at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Lowe’s.

Best Smart

Philips Hue Econic Outdoor Wall Light

 The Best Outdoor Wall Lights Option: Philips Hue Econic Outdoor White & Color Wall
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Gorgeous design
  • Super customizable light colors
  • Looks and feels expensive (because it is)
  • Great for fans of Philips Hue

What We Don’t Like

  • No wire nuts included
  • Requires a Philips Hue Bridge (sold separately)

Specs

  • Type: Flush
  • Material: Glass and metal
  • Finish(es): Black
  • Compatible Bulb(s): Built-in LED

Our Ratings

Installation3/5Brightness5/5Durability5/5Value4.5/5

The Philips Hue Econic Square is a beautifully designed smart outdoor light that stands out for its high-quality construction. It has a weighty, well-built feel, and once installed, it looks sleek and professional. The large illuminated square inside the metal and glass frame provides bright, customizable lighting that enhances any outdoor space. Installation is relatively straightforward but slightly more involved than other lights we tested—notably, this was the only product we tested that didn’t include wire nuts, which will be inconvenient if they aren’t on hand.

To unlock its full potential, the Philips Hue Econic requires a Philips Hue Bridge: Without it, the light functions as a basic fixture, missing out on its customizable color options and smart features. With the bridge, users can control brightness, color, and scheduling through the Philips Hue app, as well as integrate it with smart home systems like Alexa or Google Assistant. The light offers 16 million color choices and 50,000 shades of white, making it ideal for creating the perfect ambiance for holidays, gatherings, or everyday use.

While on the pricier side, the Econic is built to last and delivers a premium experience. It’s one of the few smart lights we liked enough to keep installed alongside our Govee Smart Outdoor Wall Lights.

What our tester says: “Philips are my favorite bulbs to use around the house, so this outdoor light was a no-brainer for me. It integrates seamlessly into my Philips Hue bridge and looks utterly amazing.” —Paul Rankin, Product Reviews writer and tester.

Get the Philips outdoor wall light at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Best Buy

Best Design

Globe Electric Hurley Outdoor Wall Sconce

 Best Outdoor Wall Lights Option: Globe Electric Hurley Outdoor Wall Sconce
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Large light looks great
  • Several finishes to choose from
  • Timeless design

What We Don’t Like

  • Bulb not included

Specs

  • Type Semi-flush
  • Material Metal and glass
  • Finishes Matte black, black bronze, matte gray, or matte white
  • Compatible bulbs: E26

Our Ratings

Installation5/5Brightness5/5Durability5/5Value4.7/5

The Globe Electric Hurley Outdoor Wall Sconce is a stylish and versatile option for outdoor porch lighting​ with a classic, modern design. Its clean lines and clear glass panels make it an excellent choice for those looking to enhance their outdoor space with a statement piece. The large hanging box can accommodate any E26 medium-base bulb, allowing for customization. Edison-style bulbs work particularly well, adding a vintage-inspired touch.

Installation is quick and straightforward, just like most other outdoor wall lights, and the package includes everything needed except for a screwdriver and a bulb. One important note: this light is sold individually, so to flank a garage or front door, be sure to purchase two.

Overall, Globe Electric’s Hurley is an excellent choice for those who want a simple yet elegant fixture that blends well with various decor styles. It’s a great statement light that adds functionality and aesthetic appeal to any home exterior.

Get the Globe Electric outdoor wall light at Amazon, The Home Depot, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, or Walmart.

Best Modern

Mirrea Modern Outdoor Porch Light

 Best Outdoor Wall Lights Option: Mirrea Modern Outdoor Porch Light
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • High-quality materials
  • Modern and eye-catching design
  • Reasonable price for the build quality

What We Don’t Like

  • Slightly bulky

Specs

  • Type: Semi-flush
  • Material: Tempered glass and aluminum
  • Finish(es): Black, white, gray, or oil-rubbed bronze
  • Compatible Bulb(s): E26

Our Ratings

Installation5/5Brightness4/5Durability5/5Value5/5

The Mirrea modern outdoor porch lights stand out with their dual-cylinder design, casting light both upward and downward to highlight architectural features, plants, or decorative elements. Unlike traditional outdoor wall lights, this fixture is designed to enhance the aesthetics of a home’s exterior while providing ample illumination.

Each light requires two bulbs—one at the top and one at the bottom—giving it a balanced, modern glow. The sturdy aluminum construction feels high quality, and the ETL-listed, waterproof design ensures durability; the glass caps screw on securely, offering protection from the elements. Available in four finishes (we tested the matte black), this fixture delivers impressive style and performance at a reasonable price.

Installation is straightforward, and the package includes everything needed except for bulbs and a screwdriver. With its IP65 rating for outdoor use and rust-resistant aluminum body, the Mirrea waterproof outdoor lights are a great choice for those looking for a modern, durable, and eye-catching exterior light fixture.

Get the Mirrea outdoor wall light on Amazon.

Best Motion-Sensing

Urpower SL-002 Outdoor Solar Motion Sensor Lights

 Best Outdoor Wall Lights_Urpower SL-002 Outdoor Solar Motion Sensor Lights
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Impressive brightness
  • Can be spaced out for pathways
  • Simple installation

What We Don’t Like

  • Light beam is not adjustable

Specs

  • Type: Flush
  • Material: Plastic
  • Finish(es): Clear
  • Compatible Bulb(s): Built-in LED

Our Ratings

Installation5/5Brightness5/5Durability4/5Value5/5

We first tested the Urpower solar motion sensor lights as part of our review of the best outdoor motion sensor lights, and at first glance, we weren’t overly impressed. The small, plastic design felt a bit basic, more like a garden accessory than a security light. However, these lights quickly proved that performance matters more than appearance.

We installed these LED exterior wall lights on a sunny morning, and after seven hours of direct sunlight, they were fully charged by nightfall. When testing their motion detection, we found that they triggered at distances of 13 to 14 feet, exceeding the 10-foot range listed by the manufacturer. The lights remained on as long as movement was detected and stayed illuminated for about 30 seconds after motion stopped.

In terms of brightness, the illumination distance reached up to 25 feet in our test, making it easy to navigate a sidewalk or driveway after dark. While they may not look like heavy-duty security lights, they are surprisingly effective—bright enough to deter intruders and improve nighttime visibility.

Get the Urpower outdoor wall lights on Amazon

Best Flood Light

Leonlite LED Motion Sensor Flood Lights

 Best Outdoor Wall Lights Option: Leonlite LED Motion Sensor Flood Lights
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Bright adjustable head
  • IP65 waterproof construction
  • Adjustable motion sensitivity

What We Don’t Like

  • Instructions aren’t the best

Specs

  • Type: Semi-flush
  • Material: Aluminum
  • Finish(es): White or bronze
  • Compatible Bulb(s): Build-in LED

Our Ratings

Installation4/5Brightness5/5Durability5/5Value5/5

The Leonlite LED Motion Sensor Flood Light impressed us with its durable build and strong performance. Its heavy-duty polycarbonate construction feels solid, and installation was straightforward using pre-existing wiring—though the included instructions could be better.

We loved its adjustability, allowing the light heads and motion sensor to be positioned separately. These lights are ideal for security: Motion detection was excellent, triggering at around 50 feet, and its bright illumination extended nearly 70 feet.

A dusk-to-dawn setting and motion sensitivity adjustment offer further customization. Initially, even moths triggered the light, but we fine-tuned it to activate only for humans and large dogs.

With its sturdy design, long-range detection, and bright output, this floodlight is a reliable choice for outdoor security.

Get the Leonlite outdoor wall light at Amazon.

More Great Options

Globe Electric outdoor light 03
Photo: Paul Rankin for Bob Vila

If you’re looking for more great outdoor lights, we found several highly rated options based on features, durability, and customer reviews. While we didn’t test these ourselves, they stand out for their performance, design, and value.

Best Vintage

Lonedruid Dusk to Dawn Outdoor Wall Light

 Best Outdoor Wall Lights Option: Lonedruid Dusk to Dawn Outdoor Wall Light
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Weatherproof construction
  • Provides up to 1600 lumens of brightness
  • Universal mounting plate and mounting hardware included

What We Don’t Like

  • May require professional help to install
  • Glass panels require assembly

Specs

  • Type: Semi-flush
  • Material: Aluminum
  • Finish(es): Black, white
  • Compatible Bulb(s): E26

Lonedruid’s outdoor wall light has the old-fashioned charm of a candle-burning lantern combined with contemporary features like weatherproof construction and LED-bulb capability. Die-cast aluminum resists corrosion and stands up to the elements, while textured glass sides create a gorgeous, dappled light effect. 

Compatible with incandescent, LED, CFL, or halogen bulbs, the fixture can accommodate bulbs up to 100 watts and produce up to 1600 lumens; that’s a lot of brightness. At nearly 18 inches tall, a pair of these fixtures can make for dramatic entry lighting on either side of a front door. There’s a universal mounting plate and mounting hardware included, but a professional electrician may be the best bet for installing this light.

Get the Lonedruid outdoor wall light on Amazon or Walmart.

Best Minimalist

Hamilton Hills Flush Mount Outdoor Light Fixture

 Best Outdoor Wall Lights Option: Hamilton Hills Flush Mount Outdoor Light Fixture
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Affordable price
  • Bright LED light
  • Compact size

What We Don’t Like

  • A little bright (and not adjustable)

Specs

  • Type: Flush
  • Material: Metal and plastic
  • Finish(es): Black or silver
  • Compatible Bulb(s): Built-in LED

The Hamilton Hills outdoor light fixture offers a perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication, making it a stylish choice for both outdoor and indoor spaces. With dimensions of 6 by 8 inches, this low-profile sconce features a frosted lens that diffuses light evenly, providing a soft and inviting glow. The light is encased in a thin, ¾-inch waterproof black powder coating, ensuring it’s durable enough to withstand the elements. Its 80+ CRI 3000K LED light offers exceptional color accuracy, delivering a warm, inviting light that’s far more appealing than harsh fluorescent alternatives.

For those who like the sleek, modern design of the Philips Hue Econic Square we tested but don’t need smart features, this is a great budget-friendly alternative. The frosted lens provides a soft, even glow, and the durable, weather-resistant frame ensures long-lasting performance outdoors. With easy installation, energy efficiency, and a warm 3000K LED light, it’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a simple yet stylish outdoor fixture. Whether upgrading a porch, patio, or entryway, this fixture delivers a high-end look at a more affordable price.

Get the Hamilton Hills outdoor wall light on Amazon, Target, or Walmart.

Most Versatile

Otdair Solar LED Lights

 Best Outdoor Wall Lights Option: Otdair Solar LED Lights
Photo: Amazon

What We Like

  • Easy installation with multiple mounting options
  • Color-changing lights add festive ambiance
  • Weather-resistant for year-round outdoor use

What We Don’t Like

  • Battery life may not meet expectations

Specs

  • Type: Flush
  • Material: Plastic
  • Finish(es): Black
  • Compatible Bulb(s): Built-in LED

The Otdair solar outdoor lights offer two lighting modes: warm white and a color-changing option cycling through seven colors. They’re great for adding a festive or ambient touch to outdoor spaces like decks, gardens, and pathways.

Installation is straightforward, with options for permanent mounting using screws or temporary placement with 3M tape (sold separately). Powered by a large-capacity Ni-MH battery, these lights charge in the sun and provide illumination through the night. With an IP65 waterproof rating, they are suitable for various weather conditions.

While users appreciate the lights’ attractive design and easy installation, there are mixed reviews on their brightness and battery life. Some enjoy them for decorative purposes, while others note shorter-than-expected usage or lights turning off too soon. Overall, these solar lights offer a budget-friendly option for colorful outdoor lighting, though durability may vary.

Get the Otdair outdoor wall light on Amazon.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose and Tested the Best Outdoor Wall Lights

Products tested 7
Time spent testing 1 month
Tests performed6 to 7
Price range$18 to $170

To arrive at our top picks, we evaluated over 20 outdoor wall lights and solar lights, considering factors like price, design, battery life, customer service, eco-friendliness, and functionality. We focused on key features such as ease of installation, brightness, durability, and any smart capabilities.

We assembled and installed them according to manufacturer instructions, noting installation time, ease, and required tools. We also assessed their aesthetic appeal, ensuring they enhanced outdoor spaces rather than looking like cheap add-ons.

We tested solar lights for charging efficiency, paying attention to performance on both sunny and cloudy days, as well as their runtime and brightness. We also evaluated functionality, checking if they provided sufficient illumination for activities like grilling or reading.

For app-enabled lights, we tested app performance, responsiveness, and functionality, both at home and remotely. Durability tests included exposure to rain and impact tests to ensure lasting performance in outdoor conditions.

Lastly, we evaluated the auto on/off features, tracking their reliability in turning on and off at appropriate times. Each product was rated based on comfort, performance, and overall value.

What to Consider When Choosing Outdoor Wall Lights

mirrea modern outdoor light 02
Photo: Paul Rankin for Bob Vila

Below is a list of features to keep in mind when shopping for outdoor lights for your home. 

Type

There are three general types of outdoor wall lights, differentiated by how they mount and their intended purpose:

  • Flush mount fixtures are fairly compact and attach to the wall, leaving no space between the wall and the light. They are suited for small outdoor corridors or stairwells where a light with a slim profile is necessary. Flush mount lights are good for flanking a front door when attempting a sleek, contemporary look. 
  • Semi-flush mount fixtures have a base that attaches to the wall while the part of the fixture that holds the light bulb extends outward, leaving a space between the bulb and the wall. They are generally larger and more ornate than a flush mount and come in a variety of styles, ranging from lanterns to Mission-style sconces.
  • Floodlights are a type of security lighting with intense brightness from broad-beamed, high-intensity light bulbs. Floodlights are designed for utility, not aesthetics, and are best suited for safety as they don’t add much curb appeal. 

Material and Weather Resistance

Wall lights can be made of a range of materials. The best one for any application depends on the climate, placement and purpose of the lights, and style preference.

  • Aluminum is affordable and strong but can fade and oxidize over time. It’s not recommended for coastal regions because salty air will corrode the metal. 
  • Copper is a high-quality option that’s strong, resists corrosion, and has superb thermal conductivity, allowing heat to escape the fixture. Over time, as it’s exposed to the elements, copper develops a patina, which only enhances its beauty. 
  • Stainless steel is a good choice for contemporary applications but must be cleaned to keep its shine and protect from corrosion.
  • Brass holds up well in all conditions. Like copper, brass will develop a patina as it’s exposed to the elements, giving it a desirable aged look.
  • Plastic, specifically polyurethane resin, is often used with security lights, where function is more important than form. Plastic is more affordable than metal but degrades in the elements over time.

When choosing an outdoor wall light, look for an Ingress Protection (IP) rating to evaluate how well the fixture resists water and dust. 

  • Lights with an IP rating of IP44 or higher are suitable for outdoor use, though those with higher ratings are ideal for more extreme conditions.
  • Fixtures rated IP65 or higher offer excellent weather resistance.
  • IP65 ensures full protection against dust and protection from water jets. 

Ensure the light’s IP rating meets the demands of the local climate to guarantee durability and performance.

The best outdoor wall lights have finishes (like powder coating) that seal the metal and help the fixture withstand rain, heat, or cold, preserving the finish for longer than untreated metal. 

Bulb Type

There are four general outdoor bulb types used in exterior wall lights, with a range of shapes, prices, lifespans, and energy usage: 

  • Incandescent bulbs produce light by running an electric current through a wire filament. These bulbs last up to 1,000 hours (or one year), use the most energy, and have the lowest up-front cost. However, their short lifespan and higher energy use make incandescent bulbs a lesser deal in the long run. These traditional bulbs are being phased out of production in favor of more energy-efficient versions.
  • Halogen bulbs are generally shaped like a floodlight and have a heated filament that uses halogen gas to produce a bright light. They’re low-priced but only last a year at most. They use a moderate amount of electricity: less than incandescents, but more than compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) or light-emitting diodes (LEDs). 
  • Compact fluorescent lamps have a spiral shape and produce light by driving an electric current through a tube full of argon and mercury vapor. They last up to 10 years and are more energy-efficient than halogen and incandescent bulbs, but they’re not as efficient as LEDs. 
  • LED light bulbs tend to be the most expensive, but they last 9 to 22 years—up to 22 times the life of an incandescent bulb. They’re extremely energy efficient, making them the most economical light bulb in the long run, despite their higher up-front cost. They are a smart option for everyday use in most situations.

Brightness and Color Temperature

An outdoor light is only as bright as its bulb, and bulb brightness is measured in lumens (lm). The more lumens, the brighter the light. A standard 100-watt bulb produces approximately 1600 lm. The color of light also affects brightness, with cool-toned light tending to be brighter than warm-toned light. 

A bulb’s light color is measured on the Kelvin (K) temperature scale. The higher the K number, the cooler the light appears. Most bulbs are in the 2500K to 6500K range, with 2500K being the warmest light and 6500K being the coolest. 

Additional Features

Govee outdoor light 07
Photo: Paul Rankin for Bob Vila

Outdoor wall lights turn on in several different ways, depending on when the light is desired.

  • Motion-sensing lights signal the light to turn on when it detects movement. They’re common in home security systems to deter intruders. Many motion-sensing lights use a passive infrared sensor (PIR) that detects a human’s body heat based on changes in temperature within the detection field.
  • Dusk-to-dawn photocell sensors detect light instead of movement. The lights automatically turn on when the sun sets and off when the sun rises, and are a good choice for conserving power during the day. 
  • Timers conserve energy by allowing users to program schedules of operation. Set the timer so the light comes on and goes off at the same time each evening—and timers can control the lights on schedule or change up the schedule when residents are on vacation for added safety and peace of mind.

Ease of Installation

Experienced DIYers should be able to install these fixtures with little more than a drill or screwdriver. The general installation process should look something like this:

  • Turn off the electricity to the exterior fixtures at the breaker box. 
  • Remove the old light, remove the plastic wire caps, uncouple the wires, and install the new light mount.
  • Wrap the new lamp’s ground wire to the ground bolt on the mount, and screw the bolt down tightly. 
  • Twist together the ground wire from the light and the ground wire from the wall, and then secure them with a wire cap. 
  • Repeat the process with the white and black wires. 
  • Next, secure the new light fixture to the mounting plate and ensure it’s secure and positioned properly. 
  • Screw in the bulbs, turn on the power, and test to make sure the lights work.

Those who are unsure of how to install an outdoor wall light (or are just uncomfortable about their ability to work with electricity or seal the fixture) should hire an electrician or handyman to install it safely. 

FAQs 

Q. What size should outdoor wall lights be?

Size is largely a matter of personal preference and where you plan to install the lights. The rule of thumb for entryways is to choose fixtures that are one-quarter to one-third of your door’s height.

Q. How many lumens do I need for outdoor wall lights?

That depends on the light fixture’s style, location, and intended use. Outdoor wall lights can use as little as 50 lm if they are made to give an ambient glow to a patio, while a security floodlight may use more than 800 lm.

Q. How high should outdoor wall lights hang?

For most homes, the ideal outdoor light height is eye level for the average-size adult. This means that if the lights are flanking a door, the fixture should be 5½ feet to 6 feet from the ground.

Q. What material is best for outdoor wall lights?

Materials like aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and brass are durable for outdoor lights, with brass and copper offering excellent corrosion resistance and aesthetic appeal.

Q. Do outdoor LED lights use a lot of electricity?

Outdoor LED lights are energy-efficient, consuming significantly less electricity than traditional lighting while providing bright illumination and a long lifespan.

Q. How long do outdoor wall lights last?

Outdoor wall lights can last anywhere from 5 to 20 years, depending on the type of light, the material, and how well they’re maintained.

Q. Is it OK to leave outdoor lights on all the time?

While it’s generally safe, it’s best to use energy-efficient LED lights if you tend to leave them on. You can consider lights with automatic on/off features to save energy.

Meet the Testers

Paul Rankin is an experienced product reviewer with a focus on home improvement and outdoor products. He provides detailed, straightforward reviews, offering readers practical insights and honest evaluations based on thorough testing.

Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.

Additional research provided by Kat Hodgkins.

 

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Paul Rankin

Contributing Writer & Editor

Paul Rankin is a Scotland native now living in New York City. He started writing for BobVila.com in April 2021, focusing on buyer’s guides for the full range of tools, furniture, DIY supplies, and home and garden products that the Bob Vila team reviews. He has worked in the translation and localization industry for the past 10 years.

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