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Outdoor wall lights make the spaces outside your home warm, beautiful, and secure. Whether lighting a deck, brightening a patio, or flanking a front door, the best outdoor lights have features like programmable timers, motion sensors, dimmers, and daylight sensors so they come on when you need them.
Outdoor wall lights come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles, and it’s important to know what features are available so you can choose the best outdoor wall lights for your needs. Read on to learn the top picks for some of the best outdoor wall lights in a range of categories.
- BEST OVERALL: Globe Electric Sebastien Outdoor Wall Sconce
- RUNNER UP: Design House Jelly Jar Classic
- BEST MODERN: LANFU LED Aluminum Waterproof Wall Lamp
- BEST RETRO: LONEDRUID Outdoor Wall Light Fixtures
- BEST INDUSTRIAL: LEDMO LED Wall Pack Light
- BEST BARN LIGHT: ZJOJO 14in, Outdoor Gooseneck Barn Light
- BEST LANTERN: Cloudy Bay 120V Outdoor Wall Lantern
- BEST FLUSH MOUNT: Philips Hue Econic Wall & Ceiling Light Fixture
- BEST SPOTLIGHT: YoungPower LED Motion Sensor Spotlights
- BEST MOTION DETECTION: Topmante Solar Motion Sensor Light
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Outdoor Wall Lights
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 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 you need a light with a slim profile. Flush mount lights are good for flanking a front door when you want 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, not curb appeal.
Material and Finish
Wall lights can be made of a range of materials. The best one for you depends on your needs.
- Aluminum is affordable and strong, but over time it may fade and oxidize. 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 a 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 it 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 aesthetic. Plastic is more affordable than metal but degrades in the elements over time.
The best outdoor wall lights have finishes (like powder coating) that seal the metal and help the fixture withstand rain, heat, or cold. This coating extends the longevity and preserves the beauty of the light.
Bulb Type
There are four general bulb types used in outdoor 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 CFLs or LEDs.
- Compact fluorescent lamps (CFL) 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 bulbs tend to be the most expensive but last nine 9 to 22 years—up to 22 times as long as an incandescent bulb. They’re extremely energy efficient, making them the most economical light bulb in the long run, despite their higher upfront cost. They are a smart option for everyday use in most situations.
Brightness
An outdoor light is only as bright as its bulb, and bulb brightness is measured in lumens (lm). The more lm, the brighter the light. A standard 100-watt bulb produces approximately 1,600 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 2,500K to 6,500K range, with 2,500K being warmest light and 6,500K being the coolest.
Lighting
Lights in outdoor wall lights come on in a number of 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. They’re a good choice for conserving power during the day.
- Timers on lights conserve energy by allowing you to program schedules of operation. Set the timer so the light comes on and goes off at the same time each evening. Or set a timer to run the lights while you’re on vacation to give the illusion of someone being home.
Installation
Experienced DIYers should be able to install these fixtures with little more than a drill or screwdriver. Follow this general process of installation:
- Turn off electricity to 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 check to ensure it’s secure and positioned properly.
- Screw in the bulbs, turn on the power, and test to make sure the lights work.
If you’re unsure of how to install an outdoor wall light, hire an electrician or handyman to install it safely and properly.
Our Top Picks
With the above shopping considerations in mind, here are some top picks for the best outdoor wall lights in a range of categories.
Best Overall
Globe Electric Sebastien Outdoor Wall Sconce
Pros
- Sleek, modern industrial design
- Fully dimmable with 60-watt bulbs
- Pack of two
- Downward design reduces light pollution
- Compatible with dimmer switches
Cons
- Mounting screws could be longer
- White interior is quite reflective
Globe Electric’s two-pack of aluminum wall sconces brings soft light and modern industrial appeal to a front porch or back deck. The semi-flush mount fixtures have a matte black finish that’s agreeable with a range of home styles. The retro shades have a modern white interior that reflects light.
These sconces are compatible with dimmer switches to adjust brightness, so they’re not as old-fashioned as they look. Each fixture can accommodate a 60-watt bulb. To get the full retro effect, you can use a vintage Edison bulb in the fixtures, or go for modern energy efficiency with an LED bulb. They’re quick and easy to install, with all the required mounting hardware included.
Product Specs
- Type: Semi-flush mount
- Material: Aluminum
- Finish(es): Matte black
- Compatible Bulb(s): LED and Edison
Get the Globe Electric wall sconce on Amazon, The Home Depot, and Ace Hardware.
Runner Up
Design House Jelly Jar Classic Indoor/Outdoor Light
Pros
- Farmhouse style with ribbed glass jar design
- Can be dimmable
- Smaller footprint for small entries
- Pack of two
Cons
- Dimmer switch not included
- Decorative nuts don’t always match oiled bronze color
- May not provide ample light
Design House’s Jelly Jar outdoor lights offer durability, quality, and style at a lower price than comparable fixtures. Inspired by the lights used on boats, these low-profile sconces are made of steel with an oil-rubbed bronze finish so they can stand up to the elements.
Their size, at 7.5 inches tall and 5.25 inches wide, makes them a good pick for small spaces. Ribbed glass covers diffuse light, creating an inviting glow instead of a glaring beam. Add a dimmer switch and you can adjust the brightness. These semi-flush-mount fixtures use 60-watt bulbs, or an LED equivalent, and can be installed with nothing more than a screwdriver. They’re also available in brass, satin nickel, and white finishes.
Product Specs
- Type: Flush mount
- Material: Steel
- Finish(es): Oil-rubbed bronze, black, satin nickel, and white
- Compatible Bulb(s): 60-watt or LED
Get the Design House indoor/outdoor light at The Home Depot or at Lowe’s.
Best Modern
LANFU LED Aluminum Waterproof Wall Lamp
Pros
- Energy-efficient
- Resists moisture and UV rays
- Adjustable light angles
- Produced 600 lms of brightness
Cons
- May be difficult to install
- More for decor than illuminating a large area
- Entire unit must be replaced when bulbs burn out
LANFU’s energy-efficient outdoor wall light has sleek, contemporary lines and sturdy aluminum construction that can stand up to the elements and resist fading from UV rays. This flush-mount light is cube-shaped and directs beams of light from both the top and bottom of the fixture.
The light angles are adjustable, allowing the fixture to highlight architectural features of a home or illuminate an entry. At just 4 by 4 inches, LANFU’s fixture is good for use in small spaces or in pairs for entry lighting. Made for use with a pair of LED bulbs, the fixture can produce up to 600 lm of brightness.
Product Specs
- Type: Flush mount
- Material: Aluminum
- Finish(es): Black and white
- Compatible Bulb(s): LED
Get the LANFU LED wall lamp on Amazon.
Best Retro
LONEDRUID Outdoor Wall Light Fixtures
Pros
- Weatherproof construction
- Provides up to 1,600 lm brightness
- Universal mounting plate and mourning hardware included
Cons
- May require professional help to install
- Glass panels require assembly
- Missing small parts for installation
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 1,600 lm; 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 your best bet for installing this light.
Product Specs
- Type: Semi-flush mount
- Material: Die-cast aluminum and textured glass
- Finish(es): Oil-rubbed bronze
- Compatible Bulb(s): LED, CFL, and halogen
Get the LONEDRUID wall light fixtures on Amazon.
Best Industrial
LEDMO LED Wall Pack Light
Pros
- Provides 5,000K of light
- Photocell sensor
- 50,000-hour lifespan
- Shatterproof and weatherproof plastic
- Detects light levels automatically and can be adjusted
Cons
- Might be too powerful in close neighborhoods
- Too bright and wide for porches
- Pricey
Larger outdoor spaces may require a more powerful fixture like LEDMO’s 5,000K light to create a well-lit area. Equipped with a photocell sensor, LEDMO’s flush-mount lights give dusk-to-dawn lighting. They automatically turn on as soon as the sun sets and turn off when the sun rises, making this a good choice for security lighting.
Capable of handling a 1,600-lm LED bulb, these fixtures can give up to 50,000 hours of superbright light. With metal construction and heavy-duty plastic covers over the bulbs, they can stand up to the humidity, rain, snow, and other bad weather without corroding or failing.
Product Specs
- Type: Flush mount
- Material: Metal and plastic
- Finish(es): Black
- Compatible Bulb(s): LED
Get the LEDMO wall pack light on Amazon.
Best Barn Light
ZJOJO 14in, Outdoor Gooseneck Barn Light
Pros
- Photocell technology
- 210-degree rotation and a 360-degree swivel
- IP65 waterproof construction
- Energy Star-certified
- Easy to install
Cons
- Pricey
- Some users report poor quality hardware
Providing your home, barn, or garage with a barn aesthetic just got easier with the ZJOJO 14in Outdoor Gooseneck Barn Light. This 2-pack of Energy Star-certified light fixtures is compatible with LED light bulbs to provide over 3,000K of light. Made with die-cast aluminum and PC plastic, this model is also IP65 waterproof making it rain-, sun-, wind-, and sand-resistant.
The photocells of these lighting fixtures force the lights to turn on when the sun sets and turn off when it rises, and they have a 210-degree rotation and a 360-degree swivel to get light just where you need it. These lights were also built for longevity and reliability with 50,000-hour lifespans and they are easy to install with the dual wall screws included.
Product Specs
- Type: Semi flush mount
- Material: Die-cast aluminum and PC plastic
- Finish(es): Black
- Compatible Bulb(s): LED
Get the ZJOJO barn light on Amazon.
Best Lantern
Cloudy Bay 120V Outdoor Wall Lantern
Pros
- Weather-resistant and waterproof
- Photocell sensor
- Open-bottom design
- GFCI outlet
- Mounting hardware included
Cons
- Light is black aluminum, not oiled bronze
- Not dimmable
- Only comes in 1 finish
Cloudy Bay’s outdoor wall lantern has traditional styling with a sturdy waterproof steel frame, frost-, heat-, and storm-resistant. With an oil-rubbed bronze finish and seeded glass panels, this wall lantern gives classic flair to outdoor space.
There’s an 800-lm LED bulb included that’s operated by the fixture’s photocell sensor, giving you dawn-to-dusk omnidirectional light. With an open-bottom design, switching out the bulb and cleaning the light is easy. You also get a source of light and power outlet in one package; there’s a GFCI outlet built into the lamp so you can plug in holiday lights or power tools. Installation hardware is included with the wall lantern.
Product Specs
- Type: Semi flush mount
- Material: Steel and seeded glass panels
- Finish(es): Oil-rubbed bronze
- Compatible Bulb(s): LED
Get the Cloudy Bay wall lantern on Amazon.
Best Flush Mount
Philips Hue Econic Wall & Ceiling Light Fixture
Pros
- Bluetooth- and Smart Home-compatible
- Programmable brightness and timers
- Includes 50,000 shades of white light
- Mounts on a wall or ceiling
- Mounting hardware included
Cons
- Pricey
- Hue hub not included
This wall light from Philips Hue is especially well suited for techies and those with smart homes. The contemporary-style light can be controlled with a smartphone, smart-home device, or voice assistant like Alexa. You can dim lights, set timers, turn the light on and off, and automate use, all without ever touching a light switch.
The metal light comes with a programmable 1,150-lm LED bulb that lets users choose from 16 million colors of warm and cool light. That number includes 50,000 shades of white light, so you can get everything from mood lights to flood lights from this fixture. Light your home in customized hues for holidays or gatherings, all without changing a bulb. The light is designed to withstand the elements and can be mounted on the wall or ceiling of a porch or patio with the included hardware and mounting components.
Product Specs
- Type: Flush mount
- Material: Metal
- Finish(es): Black
- Compatible Bulb(s): LED
Get the Philips wall light on Amazon, The Home Depot, and Best Buy.
Best Spotlight
YoungPower LED Motion Sensor Spotlights
Pros
- 2 units included
- Intense brightness
- Waterproof and weather-resistant
- Motion sensor
- Affordable
Cons
- Batteries not included
- Some users report manufacturing defects
Spotlights don’t have to be large to be effective. YoungPower’s LED motion sensor spotlights are just over 4 inches high, but their 600-lm LED bulb washes 400 square feet in intense light. Small and powerful, these spotlights aim 5,000K of light precisely where it’s needed for security purposes. Made from ABS plastic that’s waterproof, heat resistant, and frost resistant, this two-pack of lights is lightweight but effective.
A motion sensor turns them on when movement happens within 16 feet of the lights and turns them off after 30 seconds of stillness. Installation is simple, as these small spotlights don’t need to be wired in. Instead they use four D-cell batteries for power. Once installed, the light mount and head can rotate so you can direct the light where you need it.
Product Specs
- Type: Floodlights
- Material: ABS plastic
- Finish(es): Black
- Compatible Bulb(s): LED
Get the YoungPower spotlights on Amazon.
Best Motion Detection
Topmante Solar Motion Sensor Light
Pros
- Solar lights don’t need wiring or batteries
- Outer lights can be rotated to cover more area
- Detects motion at least 26 feet away
- Automatically turns off after 30 seconds without movement
Cons
- Might not be as bright as preferred
- Mounting bracket could be improved and better secured
Topmante’s solar-powered flood lights can detect movement from more than 25 feet away, thanks to supersensitive PIR technology. What the durable plastic light lacks in aesthetics, it makes up for in function, washing a driveway or yard in 800 lm of bright, safety-procuring light the moment it senses a warm body.
The light has two modes: a low light mode that comes on automatically at dusk and the brighter, flood light mode that comes on when the light detects motion. A solar panel powers the light, so no batteries or wiring are required. Installation is simple; all you need is a drill and a ladder.
Product Specs
- Type: Floodlights
- Material: Plastic
- Finish(es): Black
- Compatible Bulb(s): LED
Get the Topmante outdoor lights on Amazon.
Our Verdict
If you are looking for a reliable outdoor wall light that provides ample light, look no further than the Globe Electric sconce. This semi-flush mount is dimmable, stylish, and easy to install with its aluminum construction and matte black finish. Alternatively, if you are trying to provide light to a small porch or driveway, the flush mount Design House indoor/outdoor light has a durable steel construction that comes in multiple colorways.
How We Chose the Best Outdoor Wall Lights
We researched the most sought-after outdoor wall lights in their respective categories and discovered that the best options are determined by their type, construction, weather resistance, bulb compatibility, finishes, and other special features included by top brands.
While searching for the best outdoor wall lights on the market, the most popular types among users were the semi flush, flush, and floodlight models with durable steel, aluminum, ABS plastic, and glass constructions. Select lighting fixtures on our list are waterproof, while others offer water, heat, cold- and wind resistance to last season after season.
While most of these top picks rely on LED bulbs for their energy efficiency and ample brightness, select lighting options are compatible with halogen, Edison, and CFL bulbs for a light, ambient glow. Plus, the solar-powered wall lights are an energy-efficient choice for the eco-conscious.
These outdoor wall lights are also made with oil-rubbed bronze, matte black, white, and satin nickel finishes for an added touch of curb appeal. Finally, for added ease of use, some models are Smart Home compatible and come with all the mounting hardware required.
FAQs
You may have more questions about which outdoor wall lights are the right ones for your outdoor space. Here is more information to help you decide.
Q: How do I choose outdoor wall lights?
Choose outdoor wall lights based on brightness requirements, the light’s location, and the style that goes with your home’s architecture.
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 the height of the door.
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 5.5 feet to 6 feet from the ground.
