The Best Wall Sconces

I used to think wall sconces were fussy and old-fashioned. They seemed like something you’d only find in a fancy hotel or a historic home. But after redoing our guest room, I realized how much light they can add without taking up any floor or table space.

They’ve come a long way. Now you can get great-looking sconces that don’t even need an electrician. The new battery-operated wall sconces are perfect for renters or for anyone like me who doesn’t want to mess with wiring. It’s an easy afternoon project that makes a huge difference.

After trying a few different styles around my own house, I’ve got some favorites. Here are the wall sconces I’d recommend for 2026, from hardwired classics to simple battery-powered ones.

 

 

The Best Battery Operated & Plug-In Sconces

These are my go-to for adding light without calling an electrician. They’re perfect for apartments, old houses with tricky wiring, or just for anyone who wants a simple setup.

 

 

Ouyulong Battery Operated Wall Sconces Set of 2

This set of two costs around $80.

If you have a spot that desperately needs light but has no wiring, this is your answer. I put these on either side of the bed in our guest room, and it took me all of 15 minutes. They look so much more expensive than they are, and not having to deal with wiring was a huge plus.

You get about 60 hours of light before they need a charge. The remote is great for changing the brightness and warmth from bed. It’s such a simple upgrade.

The Downside: You do have to take them off the wall to recharge them with a USB cable. It’s not a big deal, but it’s something to remember.

 

 

Hitoo Battery Powered Wall Sconce

This sconce sells for about $45.

This is another fantastic battery-powered option, especially if you just need one for an accent wall or a dark hallway corner. The installation is no-drill, so it’s incredibly easy to put up without damaging your walls. We have one in a reading nook, and it provides the perfect amount of focused light.

It runs for around 50 hours, and the remote lets you set timers and adjust the brightness. It’s just a really practical solution for tricky lighting problems.

The Downside: It’s strictly for indoor use, so don’t plan on putting it on a covered porch or anything.

 

 

West Elm Staggered Glass Plug-In Sconce

This one is a bit of a splurge at $199.

Okay, so this one isn’t battery-operated, but it’s a plug-in, so you still don’t need an electrician. I put this in our main bedroom, and it completely changed the vibe. The light it gives off is so warm and gentle, and the staggered glass globes are just beautiful.

It really feels like a piece of art. Every time we have guests over, someone comments on this light. It makes the whole room feel more designed and cozy.

The Downside: It’s definitely on the pricier side compared to the others.

 

 

The Best Hardwired Wall Sconces

If you’re doing a bigger renovation or are comfortable with wiring, these hardwired options offer a more permanent and polished look. I replaced a couple of ancient fixtures with these.

 

 

Better Homes & Gardens 1-Light Wall Sconce Burnished Brass with Fabric Shade

You can get this sconce for about $35.

This is such a classic, clean-looking sconce. The burnished brass finish looks really high-end, and the fabric shade gives off a soft, diffused light that’s perfect for a bedroom. It doesn’t look like a typical big-box store light fixture; it has a much more custom feel.

We put two of these in our daughter’s room, and they made the space feel so much warmer. The pictures online don’t do it justice; it really elevates the look of the room.

The Downside: It doesn’t come with a lightbulb, so you’ll have to buy one separately.

 

 

Better Homes & Gardens 1-Light Wall Sconce Matte Brushed Nickel with Frosted Opal Glass

This sconce costs around $52.

This light is perfect for a hallway or even a bathroom. The frosted glass shade provides a really nice, even glow that isn’t harsh at all. It’s got a simple, elegant design that works with a bunch of different decor styles.

I used this one in our half-bath downstairs to replace an old, ugly fixture. It instantly made the small space feel more updated and inviting.

The Downside: It’s only rated for damp locations, not fully wet ones, so you wouldn’t want to put it directly inside a shower.

 

 

Better Homes & Gardens Craftsman Dimmable 1-Light Black Wall Sconce

This one is priced at about $40.

I really like the versatility of this sconce. It has a clean, craftsman style that could work in a living room, dining room, or bedroom. The matte black finish is very popular right now and looks sharp.

The best part is that it’s dimmable. Being able to adjust the light for movie nights or just for a softer evening glow is a feature I always look for. It’s also a plug-in, but you have the option to hardwire it if you want.

The Downside: Like many sconces, the bulb is sold separately.

 

 

The Best Outdoor Wall Sconces

Good outdoor lighting makes such a difference for curb appeal and safety. I swapped out our old, rusty porch lights last year and it was a huge improvement.

 

 

Globe Electric Sebastien Outdoor Wall Sconce

A two-pack of these is about $60.

This is a great modern outdoor light. It has a simple, industrial look that blends in well. We have these on our back patio, and they provide a ton of light for grilling after the sun goes down.

What’s really cool is that if you use a smart bulb, you can control the color and brightness from an app on your phone. It’s fun to change the colors for holidays.

The Downside: The mounting plate is a little small, which can make it tricky to install on certain types of siding or electrical boxes.

 

 

Globe Electric Hurley Outdoor Wall Sconce

This outdoor light costs around $70.

If you want a classic, timeless look for your front porch, this is it. It has that clear glass, lantern-style design that never goes out of fashion. It puts out a lot of light, which is great for finding your keys at night.

I especially like that it fits one of those vintage-style Edison bulbs. It gives the entrance a really warm and welcoming feel. It’s a simple design, but it makes a big impact.

The Downside: You’ll have to buy the bulb separately, but that lets you pick the exact style you want.

 

 

How to Choose the Right Wall Sconce

The biggest decision is how you’ll power it. If you’re replacing an existing fixture, a hardwired sconce is easy. But for a new spot, a battery-operated or plug-in model will save you a ton of hassle and money. I was skeptical of battery ones at first, but the technology is really good now.

Think about the kind of light you want. A fabric or frosted glass shade will give you soft, ambient light that’s great for a bedroom or living room. A sconce with a clear shade or a directed bulb is better for task lighting, like in a reading nook or over a desk.

And of course, there’s the style. I try to match the finish of the sconce—like matte black or brushed brass—to other fixtures in the room, like cabinet pulls or door knobs. It helps tie the whole space together.