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The Best Outdoor Sconce

Last updated on August 16, 2024
Best Outdoor Sconce

Our Review Process

Don't Waste Your Money is focused on helping you make the best purchasing decision. Our team of experts spends hundreds of hours analyzing, testing, and researching products so you don't have to. Learn more.

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Our Picks For The Top Outdoor Sconces

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Product Overview
Key Takeaway
 Top Pick

LONEDRUID Victorian Style LED Outdoor Sconce

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

LONEDRUID

Victorian Style LED Outdoor Sconce

If your home follows a Victorian design, you'll want to go with this vintage outdoor sconce. The glass and die-cast aluminum construction is high-quality and the piece is able to withstand wind, rain, snow and sun. The piece also features a built-in sensor that detects brightness, adjusting how much light is needed accordingly.

Overall Take

Vintage DesignThis outdoor sconce looks great on either side of your front door, over a garage door or on the wall of your outdoor patio.

 Runner Up

Emliviar Weather Resistant Iron Outdoor Sconce, 2-Pack

Emliviar

Weather Resistant Iron Outdoor Sconce, 2-Pack

Constructed using both glass and iron, this pair of outdoor sconces is weather resistant. The sconces resemble lanterns of ole and have an elegant black finish that is quite stunning. Although each piece is on the smaller side, they are able to give off plenty of light.

Overall Take

Stylish and FunctionalWith this outdoor sconce, you can use a CFL, LED or incandescent bulb.

 We Also Like

Shine Hai Dusk To Dawn Auto Sensor Outdoor Wall Sconce

Shine Hai

Dusk To Dawn Auto Sensor Outdoor Wall Sconce

This outdoor sconce will automatically turn on when the surroundings get dark, and will turn off when they are bright. It is weather resistant and made with heavy-duty materials. Installation is easy and mounting accessories are included.

Overall Take

Advanced TechnologyThis light has a built-in sensor which is sensitive to atmospheric brightness.

 Strong Contender

Westinghouse Lighting One-Light Vintage Outdoor Sconce

Westinghouse Lighting

One-Light Vintage Outdoor Sconce

A textured black finish and clear glass panels give this outdoor sconce a contemporary vibe. It is durable and made with high-quality workmanship.

Overall Take

Modern LooksThis outdoor sconce has a textured black finish and clear glass panels for a striking appearance.

Buying Guide

Outdoor sconces are a great way to upgrade the look of your space. Whether it’s for your porch, patio or pool, outdoor lighting makes an impression on your guests and neighbors. Not only that, having outdoor sconces can enhance safety around your property, ensuring everything remains well-lit when it gets dark outside and potentially deterring thieves. Plus, when your outdoor space is bright and welcoming, you’ll want to spend more time outside entertaining and enjoying it.

There are many different styles of outdoor sconces so you can find the right ones to match with your outdoor décor. Contemporary outdoor sconces have clean lines and a minimalist look. The frames are typically angular and don’t feature any ornamentation. If you have more of a traditional look, go with an outdoor sconce with smooth curves and ornate details. Traditional styles also feature frosted shades and a black or bronzed look. For a rustic or country style, look for outdoor scones that exude warmth and look slightly worn out. A weathered look is perfect for this aesthetic.

What to Look For

  • Outdoor lighting fixtures are designed for use in wet or damp areas. If you’re planning on putting up the outdoor sconce in an area where it will be directly exposed to rain and snow, then you will need to ensure they are wet rated. If the outdoor sconce will be on a covered patio or in an area which does not get any direct rain or snow, then you can choose lights which are damp rated.
  • If you want to increase security around your property, one of the best ways to do that is with motion-sensor lights. These lights will automatically turn on when there is movement within the range of the motion sensor.
  • Another option is dusk-to-dawn lights, which have a sensor to turn on when the sun goes down, and turn off when the sun comes up. This is perfect for you if you routinely forget to turn the outdoor lights on and off or if you’re taking a trip out of town and still want your outdoor lights to be on. These can also be set on a timer instead of a sensor.
  • When choosing the right size of lighting for your outdoor space, it’s best to go big rather than small. Ensure that your lighting fixture is visible from the curb. This will add to the curb appeal of your home and make a visual impression on passersby.

More to Explore

If you’re watching your energy bill, you may be concerned about outdoor lighting because these types of lights stay on for several hours at a time. In this case, it’s best to opt for LED lights. LED sources use 75% less energy than incandescent lighting, and they last 35 to 50 times longer. This results in a significant savings on your energy bill, while providing you with the outdoor lighting you need. You can also potentially find solar-powered outdoor lights for maximum energy efficiency but they typically emit a dimmer light than other options.

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