What's the best way to add visibility and beauty to a porch? I believe it's by adding aesthetic outdoor porch lights.
If I had to pick my two favorite spots of the house, they’d be the garden and the porch. When I'm not tending to the garden or walking the dogs, I like to sit on a lounger on the porch and read a gardening magazine.
However, since it gets dark earlier during winters, I have trouble sitting on the porch to relax. That's when I decided to install porch & patio lights to gain better visibility.
Once I started exploring the various outdoor lighting options, I realized that they would help enhance the beauty of my porch as well. I'm Stacy, and in today's guide, I will introduce you to some of the best outdoor porch lights for your home.
Let's begin!
Best Outdoor Porch Lights
1. Brightown Outdoor String Lights
One of the first porch lights I came across was the Brightown Outdoor String Lights. What attracted me initially to these lights was their simplistic design and beautiful, warm-toned glow. Moreover, these lights stretched 25 feet long, making them perfect for my outdoor sitting area.
Product Highlights
To begin with, these lights have a 25-foot wire with one bulb per foot - a total of 25 bulbs. Although these bulbs come in a variety of colors - black, white, red, and multicolored, I opted for the black version as I thought it would blend in well with my decor.
An impressive aspect of these outdoor porch lights is their dimmable feature. This feature allows me to change the brightness level according to my needs. Moreover, it enables me to save electricity, as decreased brightness automatically translates to less energy used.
I was initially worried whether it would be safe to place these corded lights outdoors or not, considering the sporadic rainfall and snow. Fortunately, I discovered that these lights are UL certified and have excellent IP44 waterproof technology. This enables you to hang them outdoors in most weather conditions without fear of damage.
What's There To Like About It?
I loved how sturdy and durable the three connecting wires were, which assured me that the lights would withstand regular wear and tear. Moreover, the IP44 waterproof rating allowed me to install them outdoors without the fear of winds, mild rain, or snow affecting them.
Moving on, I also appreciate the built-in spare fuse and additional bulb provided by the manufacturer. This makes replacement very easy since I don't need to worry about getting a new bulb or fuse.
What's There Not To Like About It?
Unfortunately, the installation process is not very straightforward, as you have to unscrew each bulb, hang the wires, and then screw each bulb individually. This can be painstakingly time-consuming.
Furthermore, the bulbs have a glass covering, which makes them vulnerable to damage. While they aren't prone to breaking or cracking in normal conditions, strong winds may cause them to bump against the wall and crack.
Pros and Cons of Brightown Outdoor String Lights
Pros
Cons
- 【Dimmable Compatible & Energy Saving】G40 LED outside string light come with 12 plastic LED bulbs and 1 spare bulb. 1.5 inch light bulbs have E12/C7 candelabra socket base, 1W per bulb, warm white dimmable string light help you to save more electricity bid
- 【Connectable & Portable】12 hanging sockets, 18 inch lead with male plug, 24 inch spacing between bulbs, 18 inch tail with female connector, total length 25 feet. End to end connect up to 60 strands (include the 1st strand). Portable size for easy carrying and storage
- 【Safety & Durable】Outside deck lights is built with weatherproof technology, which can withstand extreme temperatures, rain, wind, and damp climates. Safe and durable electric bistro lights either with a built-in spare fuse for easy replacement
2. Cloudy Bay Outdoor Wall Lantern
Once I had installed the string lights, I was looking for something slightly more substantial. Although the previous lights added immense aesthetic value to my porch, they weren't bright enough for reading. While searching for an alternative, I came across the Cloudy Bay Outdoor Wall Lantern.
Product Highlights
This wall lantern has a mixture of old fashioned and contemporary appeal. In my opinion, this design and aesthetics would complement almost any outdoor décor you might have currently.
Made entirely of metal with an oil-rubbed finish, its design and appeal looked fantastic hanging on my porch wall. Furthermore, the seeded glass texture makes the light emission from the bulb appear scattered and slightly patterned. This type of lighting is much more suited for reading or relaxing on the porch compared to harsh, bright overhead lights.
Moving on, this wall lantern features an ambient light photocell that automatically turns on at dusk. Although it is not solar-powered, its smart photocell detects the ambient lighting and automatically turns off when there is daylight nearby.
This feature is energy-saving and cost-effective. Moreover, it saves me the trouble of remembering to switch the light on or off, which I tend to forget sometimes.
What's There To Like About It?
The outer aluminum body of the product is made of heavy-duty metal with an oil-rubbed finish. Moreover, it is waterproof and weather-resistant, enabling you to use it in snowy, wet, or very sunny climates.
The installation process was also relatively straightforward and did not take much time or effort. Fortunately, the manufacturer provided all the mounting tools and hardware, eliminating the need to buy additional products for its installation.
What's There Not To Like About It?
Although it is relatively easy to install, it requires hardwiring. Fortunately, I already had this done, but those who do not have their homes hardwired may need to call a professional to get it done.
I would have loved it if these lights could be dimmed, like the ones in my previous recommendation. That being said, the brightness level is ideal for reading outdoors.
Pros and Cons of Cloudy Bay Outdoor Wall Lantern
Pros
Cons
- One-light exterior wall lantern with dusk-to-dawn. **Must be wired with 120VAC power supply. Not battery, neither solar power photocell.
- Oil rubbed bronze finish on steel; seeded glass panels(Tip*Productive process can't ensure the consistency of the bubble density inside of glass, so that the glass panel of each light is different from others)
- 13-1/4 by 6 inches (H x W); extends 7 inches from the wall
3. Addlon Outdoor String Lights
Moving on to my next find, I want to talk about the Addlon Outdoor String Lights. Although they are similar to one of my previous recommendations, the outer body is made of hard, durable plastic. This feature makes it more durable and weather-resistant compared to other products.
Product Highlights
Those looking for durable outdoor porch lights designed for heavy-duty everyday use will find this product suitable for their needs. These lights are UL listed, weatherproof, and commercial grade, so they can withstand sun damage, wind, rain, and even snow.
Moving on, this product features a dimmer switch that allows you to change its level of brightness according to your needs or mood. However, the dimmer switch is not included and must be purchased separately.
If you are worried about the weight of the bulbs weighing down on the wires, don't be. The heavy-duty cords have been designed to carry the weight of all 15 bulbs with ease. Furthermore, the cords are thick yet flexible, giving you the freedom to bend or shape them in whichever way you want to decorate them.
Finally, the installation process is relatively straightforward. You can connect the lights to others in your home using any standard outlet with grounded cord plugs.
What's There To Like About It?
One of my favorite features of this outdoor light is its dimmable feature. Of course, I had to purchase it separately, but it was worth the added cost. Moreover, the installation was quick and straightforward and did not take much effort.
I also appreciate the shatterproof outer plastic material that allowed me to use the lights even during storms, heavy rainfall, and snow. Cleaning the outer surface was also a relatively effortless process, and I liked the warm, white glow it provided on my porch.
What's There Not To Like About It?
Overall, I was satisfied with this product and loved the soft ambiance it creates. However, my only issue with it was that the dimmer switch had to be purchased separately.
Since the manufacturer already provides the dimming feature on these lights, it would have been easier for most users if the switch was also provided.
Pros and Cons of Addlon Outdoor String Lights
Pros
Cons
- Perfect shatterproof LED Bulbs: Each strand contains 15 hanging sockets, provided with shatterproof LED bulbs. The distance between bulbs is approximately 3.11FT. Ideal Outdoor Lighting with Italian Bistro Style.
- Weatherproof and Heavy-duty: These market lights are designed to withstand the wear and tear of year-round outdoor use. They are ETL listed weatherproof commercial. The insulation material can protect the strand from hot winter, sun, wind, rain, snow and damp. Flexible heavy-duty cord withstands the wear of indoor and outdoor use.
- Dimmer Compatible to Set The Right Mood: For greater mood lighting flexibility and a soft glow, a dimmer switch(NOT Include) to create the perfect atmosphere for a birthday party, family reunion , or wedding reception. It adds flair to bistro deck porch patio garden backyard terrace pergola café restaurant malls for wedding BBQ party banquets, also suitable for tree-lighting like Christmas tree.
4. Canyon Outdoor Wall Light Fixture
For my next purchase, I decided to try the Canyon Outdoor Wall Light Fixture. The classic lantern design and soft white lighting instantly brightened my porch, and I was pleased with the brightness level. Here are my other findings of this product.
Product Highlights
This wall sconce light fixture features a warm, bronze shade that complements most modern outdoor decor. I especially liked the sturdy metal frames that added an elegant and classical appeal to my outdoor sitting area.
Moving on, this light fixture came with a universally compatible mounting plate that was compatible with my existing junction box. Although this made the installation process slightly more straightforward, I must admit that it wasn't entirely effortless.
Fortunately, the manufacturer provided all the necessary tools and accessories that were needed for its complete installation. Moreover, a set of detailed instructions were also provided that enabled me to install the fixture - with a little help from my neighbor.
Lastly, I liked the heavy-duty metal construction and the solid glass panels designed to be weather-resistant and waterproof. This allowed me to decorate the fixture outdoors without worrying much about the weather damage it might endure.
What's There To Like About It?
One of the best aspects of this light fixture is its five-year warranty that guarantees instant product or part replacement in case of any defects. This allowed me to hang the fixture outdoors with complete peace of mind, as I could get the parts replaced in case of any mishaps.
Another feature I liked about these lights were their brightness levels. Exuding 500 Lumens of brightness, they are excellent for using after dark and provide plentiful light for reading or relaxing on the porch.
What's There Not To Like About It?
Although this wall fixture adds an extremely classy appeal, I must admit that the installation process was slightly cumbersome. I would recommend getting another helping hand as it seemed more like a two-persons job rather than a DIY project.
However, since it features a universally compatible mounting plate, it made the installation slightly easier.
Pros and Cons of Canyon Outdoor Wall Light Fixture
Pros
Cons
- ✔ DUSK TO DAWN LIGHT EFFICIENCY: Photocell control provides night time on, daytime off to ensure efficient energy usage to save you money. Also, this wall sconce lighting is decorative wall-mounted fixture that provides a beautiful light for entryway, doorway, foyer, corridor, balcony, patio and porch.
- ✔ OUTDOOR WEATHER RESISTANT - Our wall sconces with heavy-duty rugged metal construction and clear glass panels, ideal for any outdoor environment.
- ✔ BULB REQUIREMENTS- 2x E26/Medium Base 60W Bulbs (Bulbs not included)
5. Tosuba Outdoor Wall Lantern
One of the last products I came across and decided to test on my porch is the Tosuba Outdoor Wall Lantern. I was intrigued by its modern antique appeal and decided to install it just over my doorbell to add visibility during the night.
Product Highlights
This wall lantern features an advanced built-in IC sensor that automatically turns the light on at dusk and off at dawn. The feature is reliable and makes it convenient for me to leave it on throughout the night without worrying about high energy costs. Since it turns on and off automatically, it gives me the freedom to focus on other tasks.
Next, I loved its aluminum body and sturdy glass panels that are designed to be rust and corrosion-proof. Moreover, the outer body is entirely weather-resistant, enabling me to hang it outdoors without worrying about weather-related damage.
The open bottom design enables quick and easy installation and replacement of the bulbs. Furthermore, the sensors are pre-assembled, while the installation and mounting are made easy, thanks to the hardware and tools provided by the manufacturer.
Lastly, I was impressed with their excellent customer service. I had some concerns about the installation process and contacted them on their service page. They were quick to respond and solved my issue immediately.
What's There To Like About It?
My primary concern with most outdoor porch lights is remembering to turn it on or off since I can be a little forgetful. Fortunately, the built-in light sensors on this product were extremely reliable and worked flawlessly. The automatic shut on and off feature saved me many trips to the porch while also saving energy costs in the long run.
I also liked the quick and easy installation process since most of the parts came pre-assembled. Furthermore, it was relatively effortless because all the hardware and tools were provided.
What's There Not To Like About It?
Unfortunately, the bulb was not provided with the product and had to be purchased separately. This was not a huge issue; however, I would expect the manufacturer to provide a bulb if it is advertised on their page.
Pros and Cons of Tosuba Outdoor Wall Lantern
Pros
Cons
- 1️⃣Advanced Sensor Technology: Our outdoor light fixture will detect the brightness of surroundings sensitively by using upgraded built-in IC sensor, auto turns on at night and turn off at daybreak, free from hassle of switching on/off and great to conserve electricity. PS: this dusk to dawn wall lantern can also be used as normal one when you cover the sensor.
- 2️⃣High Quality Made to Last: Unlike traditional lanterns made of plastic or iron, our dusk to dawn wall lantern is made heavy-duty rugged metal. It’s ready for all weathers, rain or snow, ultra high or low temperatures, this long-last wall lantern won’t get rusty or corrosion after years of using.
- 3️⃣Classic&Modern Design: We feature that the light fixture with simple line and clear glass, matte black finish, make it suitable for all kinds of walls, bringing the easiest improvement to your home! This modern exterior wall light is ideal for all occasion such as front doorway, garden, garage, porch, driveway, driveway, yard, roadway, parking lots, sidewalk, building wall and commercial usage as overnight security, area and perimeter lighting, etc.
Buyers Guide
We are almost at the end of my guide; however, I want to talk about a few more things before I sign off. When I began looking for the best outdoor porch lights for my needs, I had to consider a few crucial factors.
If you are still confused about the right product for your home, don't be. I have curated a short guide to help you make the right choice and pick the most suitable porch lights for your requirements.
Here are some factors you must consider before making a purchase.
1. The Design And Aesthetics
Every homeowner has their personal sense of style and taste. Personally, I prefer a modern approach mixed with antique aesthetics. This simply means that although I lean towards products that have an old school charm, I prefer when they have technologically advanced features as they provide more functionality.
I opted for a couple of products for my porch that provided the perfect balance between contemporary and classic. I loved the retro style wall lanterns and fixtures as they made my porch and outdoor sitting area look very elegant. Of course, I also enjoyed the advanced features they offered, like a dimmer switch, auto on and off functions, etc.
2. Brightness Level
Since I often use my porch as a sitting area where I relax with magazines or books, I was looking for outdoor lights that would allow me to read easily after dusk. While smaller sized fairy lights or bulbs look extremely aesthetic in most decors, they don't provide much brightness for reading.
It is best to check the brightness level offered by each product before purchasing it. Moreover, you should also consider the purpose of the outdoor lights. If they are merely decorative, you may opt for smaller lights that offer an elegant and aesthetic appeal.
However, if you use the porch as a reading area like I do, you may want to look for lights that offer adequate brightness levels. You can also look for products that come with a dimmer switch so you can change the brightness levels as required.
3. Ease Of Installation
Another essential factor which I always consider when buying a new product is its ease of installation. As a rule, I prefer to install my own products without calling for professional help. Of course, I don't mind a helping hand from my family or friends, but I mostly like to go through the installation process myself.
I came across a couple of products that were pre-assembled and relatively easy to install. Moreover, the manufacturer provided the hardware and installation tools, eliminating the need for me to find tools or buy them.
However, some manufacturers do not provide these tools. It is vital to consider this if you plan on installing the lights yourself. Why? Because you will most likely require hardware and tools to do this easily.
4. Single VS String Lights
For my use case, I was looking for single lights that would provide adequate brightness levels to read after dusk. However, I also came across a few string lights which I thought looked stunning against the porch rails. I decided to buy both and use them alternatively whenever I needed to.
I would recommend considering the purpose of installing porch lights as it will help you determine one that is suitable for your needs. If you wish to add aesthetic value or install ornamental or decorative lights, I would suggest opting for string lights that come with a dimmable feature.
However, if you are looking for practical outdoor porch lights that are bright and help add visibility to the area, opting for sturdy, bright lights might be a better choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
This depends entirely on the product you choose. While some might require hardwiring, others can be installed by connecting them to your existing plugs or wires.
However, if you decide to purchase hardwired lights, ensure that your home has hardwiring pre-installed. Otherwise, you will have to get it done professionally before you can use these lights on the porch.
Several users often wonder how the auto shut on and off features work on these lights, especially if they aren't using solar power. Well, this feature works on a built-in light sensor that detects ambient light.
When the sensor detects the ambient lighting dipping below a specific frequency, it automatically turns the lights on (at dusk) and vice versa.
Our Final Recommendation
I must admit, I love the way my outdoor sitting area looks now that I’ve installed these beautiful porch lights.
Before I sign off, I want to take a moment to tell you about some of my favorite products. Overall, I loved the aesthetics, appeal, and features of the Cloudy Bay Outdoor Wall Lantern. However, I missed the dimmable feature on this product.
If you are looking for porch lights that come with a dimmable feature, I would ask you to consider the Addlon Outdoor String Lights or the Brightown Outdoor String Lights. For the former, you are required to purchase the dimmer switch separately, but this is not the case for the latter.
I hope you enjoyed going through my reviews and guide. Be sure to come back again for more useful reviews.
Until next time!