“Outlet nearby and you read every night? Go plug-in. Blank wall, no outlet, or you hate cords? Go cordless. Plenty of renters do both: plug-in by the bed, rechargeable everywhere else.”
Designer tip
5 ways to decide in two minutes
- Find the outlet first. A plug-in needs one within cord reach (the Le Klint Shibui cord is 68.9 inches). No outlet? Cordless wins.
- Count your hours. Plug-in never runs out. Emily lists 8 to 48 hours per charge, which is plenty for evening glow.
- Check the switch. Look for an inline switch (Hector 30), touch dimming (Pixo) or a dimmer on the shade (Fusion Flex).
- Mount it around 60 inches. That is Schoolhouse's rule of thumb for many rooms; go a bit lower beside the bed so you can reach it.
- Ask about holes. Both types use a screw or bracket. Small holes are usually easy to patch, but check your lease.
Our picks: plug-in and cordless
Hector 30 Medium Dome Plug-In Wall Light by Original BTC
Glowing bone china, a braided cord and an inline switch.
Fusion Flex Wall Swing Lamp by House of Troy
Comes with a 30-inch cord cover and a dimmer on the shade.
Emily Rechargeable Wall Sconce in Black with Rattan Shade
No wiring at all, 8 to 48 hours per charge.
Emily Rechargeable Wall Sconce in Black with Metal Shade
Same wire-free sconce, metal shade, and it dims.
Emily Rechargeable Wall Sconce in Black
The battery hides in the base plate and slides out to charge.
Emily Rechargeable Wall Sconce in Antique Brass with Metal Shade
Add a spare battery pack and the light never has to go out.
Emily Rechargeable Wall Sconce in Antique Brass with Rattan Shade
Rattan and brass for a soft, warm glow by the sofa.
More no-ceiling-light ideas: How Do I Light a Bedroom With No Overhead Light?
Frequently asked questions
Are plug-in wall sconces renter friendly?
Yes, if there is an outlet nearby. They plug into a standard outlet, so no electrician is needed. You only add a small screw or bracket to the wall, so check your lease.
How long do rechargeable wall sconces last per charge?
It depends on the model and brightness. Modern Lantern Emily lists 8 to 48 hours per charge.
Which is better for reading in bed?
A plug-in swing-arm or task light, such as Pablo Pixo, gives steady light all night. A cordless sconce is great for a softer glow.
How do I hide the cord on a plug-in sconce?
Run it straight down to the outlet and cover it with a paintable cord cover. Some lamps, like the House of Troy Fusion Flex, include one.
How high should I hang a wall sconce?
A common rule of thumb is about 60 inches from the floor to the fixture, a bit lower beside a bed so you can reach the switch.
Still torn? Our team will help you pick: LoftModern Design Help.