A well-lit exterior is one of the most effective and affordable security measures for any home. Outdoor wall lights designed for security do more than just illuminate a path; they deter unwanted activity, increase visibility for cameras, and provide peace of mind when arriving home after dark. The right fixture combines durability, brightness, and smart features to create a safer perimeter.
From classic lanterns that offer ambient light to high-tech floodlight cameras with motion detection, the options are vast. This roundup focuses on eight top-performing outdoor wall lights that prioritize security. Whether you need a simple hardwired sconce, a solar-powered motion light, or a full surveillance system with integrated lighting, you’ll find a solution to brighten your home’s defenses.
Our Top Picks for Outdoor Security Lighting
- Emliviar 1-Light Outdoor Wall Lantern 2 Pack
- MAXvolador Outdoor Wall Lantern, Exterior Waterproof Wall Sconce
- Ollivage Solar Lights Outdoor, Motion Sensor Security Lights
- Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus (newest model)
- gdend Wired Floodlight Camera | Home Security Camera Outdoor
- LEONLITE LED Security Lights Motion Sensor Outdoor Flood Light
- Mr. Beams Wireless Outdoor Motion Sensor Security Spotlight
- Heath Zenith HZ-5411-WH Heavy Duty Outdoor Motion Sensing Security Light
Emliviar 1-Light Outdoor Wall Lantern 2 Pack
For a classic and reliable security lighting solution, the Emliviar twin-pack offers excellent value. These lanterns provide consistent illumination for entryways, garages, and side yards, eliminating dark corners. Their sturdy metal construction and weather-resistant design ensure they can handle exposure to the elements in wet locations.
The clear seeded glass shade diffuses light effectively, while the open-bottom design allows for easy bulb replacement. You can use a bright LED bulb up to 100W in the E26 socket to achieve the desired level of light output for your security needs. As a hardwired fixture, it provides permanent, dependable light without the need for batteries or recharging.
MAXvolador Outdoor Wall Lantern, Exterior Waterproof Wall Sconce
This MAXvolador wall sconce combines a sleek, trapezoidal design with robust security lighting functionality. Its matte black finish and clear glass panes offer a versatile look that complements many home styles while allowing maximum light transmission. The fixture is built to be rust-proof and durable against all weather conditions, from heavy rain to hot sun.
The clear glass design is a key feature for security, as it showcases the bulb and allows bright, unfiltered light to illuminate the area. This helps create a well-lit perimeter that discourages unwanted activity. Its size and shape make it an ideal choice for flanking a garage door or front entry, providing both aesthetic appeal and practical safety lighting.
Ollivage Solar Lights Outdoor, Motion Sensor Security Lights
The Ollivage solar light is a fantastic wire-free option for adding motion-activated security lighting without complex installation. It powers itself via its solar panel, making it energy-independent and simple to mount on any exterior wall. The dual-head spotlights are fully adjustable, allowing you to direct light precisely where it’s needed most.
Its smart PIR sensor offers two modes: a dim all-night glow and a bright, motion-activated burst of light. This dual-functionality conserves energy while providing a strong deterrent when movement is detected. With an IP65 waterproof rating, it’s built to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, offering reliable performance for gardens, driveways, and patios.
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Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus (newest model)
The Ring Floodlight Cam Wired Plus is a comprehensive security solution that integrates powerful lighting with a full-featured HD camera. When its motion sensor is triggered, it not only floods the area with bright light but also starts recording 1080p video and can send an alert directly to your phone. This creates a powerful multi-layered deterrent.
Features like Two-Way Talk and a built-in 105dB siren allow you to communicate with visitors or warn off intruders remotely via the Ring app. You can customize motion zones to focus on specific areas, reducing false alerts. This device is ideal for those who want to actively monitor and interact with their property’s security from anywhere.
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gdend Wired Floodlight Camera | Home Security Camera Outdoor with 3K UHD
For superior video clarity, the gdend Floodlight Camera records in impressive 3K Ultra HD and features color night vision when its dimmable 2200-lumen LEDs are activated. This means you get detailed, identifiable footage day or night, which is a significant advantage for security monitoring and evidence.
The system offers extensive coverage with a 270-degree adjustable field of view for both the camera and the floodlights, effectively eliminating blind spots. The combination of ultra-bright motion-activated lighting, a loud 105dB siren, and high-resolution recording creates a formidable security package for driveways, large yards, and side entrances.
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LEONLITE LED Security Lights Motion Sensor Outdoor Flood Light
LEONLITE is a respected brand known for producing powerful and efficient LED floodlights designed specifically for security. Their fixtures typically feature advanced motion sensors with adjustable sensitivity and timing, along with very high lumen outputs to brightly illuminate large areas like backyards, parking areas, and building facades.
These lights are engineered for durability and long-term performance, with robust housings that protect the high-efficiency LED arrays. The motion detection is a key security component, ensuring the light only operates when needed, which saves energy and draws attention to activity. It’s a professional-grade lighting choice for serious perimeter security.
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Mr. Beams Wireless Outdoor Motion Sensor Security Spotlight
Mr. Beams specializes in battery-operated, completely wireless lighting that offers incredible installation flexibility. Their security spotlights can be placed anywhere on an exterior wall without needing an electrician or proximity to an outlet. This makes them perfect for sheds, fences, remote corners of the house, or rental properties where hardwiring isn’t possible.
These lights activate with motion, providing a sudden burst of light that can surprise and deter. They are designed to be weatherproof and are generally very easy to mount with just a few screws. For a quick, effective, and non-permanent security lighting boost, a wireless Mr. Beams spotlight is a practical and popular solution.
See All Mr. Beams Wireless Lights
Heath Zenith HZ-5411-WH Heavy Duty Outdoor Motion Sensing Security Light
The Heath Zenith brand is often associated with reliable, heavy-duty motion sensor lights built for long-term residential and commercial use. The HZ-5411-WH model represents a workhorse fixture known for its rugged construction, powerful light output, and a dependable motion sensor that can cover a wide area.
These lights are made to withstand tough conditions and provide consistent performance year after year. They often feature adjustable heads to aim the light, customizable sensor settings, and are constructed from materials that resist corrosion. If you need a no-frills, extremely durable, and bright motion-activated floodlight, a Heath Zenith model is a time-tested choice.
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Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Outdoor Wall Lights for Security
When I’m looking to improve my home’s safety, picking the right outdoor wall lights is a game-changer. It’s not just about getting the brightest bulb; it’s about smart features and strategic placement that work together to deter unwanted visitors. Let me walk you through what I always consider to find the best outdoor wall lights for security.
First, brightness and coverage are king. I look for lights measured in lumens, not watts. For a security-focused light, you want something powerful—think 700 lumens or more. This creates a wide, bright field of illumination that leaves few shadows for someone to hide in. The beam spread is equally important. A light with a motion sensor should have a wide detection pattern (like 180 degrees) and cast light over a broad area, not just a narrow spot.
Next, motion sensing is non-negotiable for me. A light that only turns on when it detects movement serves two purposes: it surprises and highlights anyone approaching, and it saves energy. I check the sensor’s range (often 70 feet or more is good) and make sure it has adjustable sensitivity and duration settings. This lets me fine-tune it so a passing cat doesn’t trigger an all-night light show, but a person definitely will.
Build quality and durability are what make the investment last. My lights face rain, snow, sun, and maybe even the occasional stray ball. I always choose fixtures with a solid IP (Ingress Protection) rating, like IP65, which means they’re fully protected against dust and powerful water jets. Materials matter too; I prefer heavy-duty die-cast aluminum or solid polycarbonate over thin plastic that can become brittle and fade.
Finally, I think about the light’s “intelligence” and installation. Integrated dusk-to-dawn sensors are great for ensuring the light only operates at night. For a more modern setup, I consider smart lights that connect to my phone. This lets me customize schedules, get alerts, or even turn the lights on remotely if I’m away, adding a huge layer of perceived occupancy. Just be honest about your wiring skills—some lights are simple plug-and-play replacements, while others might need a quick call to an electrician. By balancing these factors—brightness, smart sensing, tough construction, and convenient features—you can build a well-lit security perimeter that makes your home safer and gives you real peace of mind.
FAQ
What makes an outdoor wall light good for security compared to a regular one?
Regular outdoor lights are often just for ambiance or pathway lighting. A security-focused light is built with deterrence in mind. It’s significantly brighter (high lumens), has a wide beam angle to eliminate dark corners, and almost always includes a reliable, adjustable motion sensor. The combination of sudden, bright light and broad coverage is what disrupts and exposes potential intruders, making your property a less attractive target.
How bright should my security wall light be?
For effective security, I don’t recommend going below 700 lumens. Many dedicated security fixtures range from 1200 to 3000 lumens. Think of it this way: you want to mimic daylight in that area for a few moments. This level of brightness is disorienting and makes it impossible for anyone to approach unseen. It also helps security cameras capture clearer footage if you have them.
Where is the best place to install security wall lights?
Placement is critical. I focus on key approach points and vulnerable areas. The most important spots are above or beside all exterior doors (front, back, garage), near ground-floor windows (especially those hidden by shrubs), and along dark walkways or driveways. Aim to have the lights mounted high enough (usually 8-10 feet) so they can’t be easily tampered with, and angle the motion sensor to cover the approach path, not just the immediate wall.
Can I install a security light myself?
It depends on the model and your existing wiring. If you’re replacing an old wall-mounted fixture with a new one, it’s often a straightforward swap if you’re comfortable with basic electrical safety (always turn the power off at the breaker first!). For new locations without existing wires, the job involves running cable through walls, which is best left to a licensed electrician. Many solar-powered options offer great DIY flexibility with no wiring needed.
Are smart security lights worth the extra cost?
In my opinion, often yes. Smart features add a powerful layer of control and deception. Being able to turn lights on/off or set random schedules from my phone when I’m on vacation makes the house look occupied. I can also get instant alerts if motion is detected, adjust settings without getting a ladder, and integrate them with other smart devices like cameras or alarms. For the best outdoor wall lights for security, smart functionality is a major upgrade.
What’s the difference between a dusk-to-dawn sensor and a motion sensor?
They serve different but complementary purposes. A dusk-to-dawn sensor (or photocell) simply turns the light on at sunset and off at sunrise, providing constant ambient lighting. A motion sensor only activates the light when movement is detected. For maximum security and efficiency, I look for lights that combine both: the light stays off all night until the motion sensor is triggered, thanks to the photocell. This saves the most energy while providing the security benefit of sudden illumination.