14 Battery-Operated Wall Sconces That Are Actually Stylish (They’re Perfect for Renters!)

Nikol SlatinskaShopping Writer, Home
Nikol SlatinskaShopping Writer, Home
In my role at Apartment Therapy, I'm most passionate about making my home look beautiful and organized and helping our readers do the same — often at a discount. Although I cover my fair share of newsy pieces, my work focuses on long-form service articles that help our audience…read more
updated Jul 23, 2024
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Bedroom with a colorful geometric blanket, plants, wooden side tables, and wall art.

It’s true that lighting can make or break a space. If you’ve ever been in a beautifully furnished room with harsh fluorescent overhead lighting, you’ve experienced the problem first-hand. We tend to opt for softer alternatives here at AT, whether that entails decorating with table lamps, adorning a living room with floor lamps, or even lighting a simple candle.

Why You Should Get a Battery-Operated Wall Sconce

Perhaps the most regal-looking option of all, though, is the wall sconce. But yours doesn’t have to look old-fashioned (unless that’s what you’re into). There are all kinds of styles to choose from, including modern, rustic, and Art Deco. We understand, however, that there might be something else holding you back from trying a sconce or two. Typically, these fixtures are hardwired and a pain to install. The good news is that we’ve found 14 battery-operated wall sconces that aren’t likely to get you in trouble with your landlord. And it goes without saying that they look ultra-stylish, too!

Do you have a battery-operated wall sconce you love? We want to hear all about it! Tell us about your favorite finds in the comments below.

Koopala LED Wall Sconces with Rechargeable Battery
$24$1825% off

At just $20, this adhesive wooden wall lamp is the most affordable item on our list. It's available in four colors and has three brightness and three light temperature settings. Whether you need a reading light or a soft background glow, this LED accessory will be a perfect fit for your space. The lamp also has a built-in rechargeable battery, which works for up to 20 hours on the lowest power setting.

$18 at Amazon
RAIFOOLLY Battery-Operated Picture Light
$26

Give your artwork the spotlight it deserves with this battery-operated picture light. Picture lights are usually not the most renter-friendly piece of lighting equipment and often require hardwiring, so this rechargeable light is sure to become one of your favorite decor additions, especially for apartment-dwellers.

$26 at Amazon
Aototen Rechargeable Wall Sconce, Set of 2
$28

Want a softer, cozier feel to your quarters? These dimmable linen sconces will do the trick. You can choose from 16 different light colors and even set a timer to keep them on for 30, 60, or 120 minutes. Instead of the headache-inducing glare you might experience from certain overhead lights, these create a soothing ambiance for any activity, be it working, watching a movie, or getting ready for bed.

$28 at Walmart
TACAHE Battery Operated Wall Sconce with Glass Shade
$40

The TACAHE Battery Operated Wall Sconce is one of our favorite picks thanks to two things: its super chic design and its matte glass lampshade (yep, glass!) A modern pick that looks way more expensive than it is, it's also touch-controlled and dimmable — what more could you ask for?

$40 at Amazon
KARTOOSH Battery Operated Wall Sconces
$95$7719% off

For a minimal look, it's hard to beat the KARTOOSH Battery-Operated Wall Sconces. At first glance, they'll look like two art pieces on your wall, but with a quick tap of the base (or click of the remote) you'll find yourself surrounded by a warm glow. Rechargeable and dimmable, these lamps also rotate so you can position them in a myriad of ways.

$77 at Amazon
HBGFHG Rotatable Wooden Battery Operated Led Wall Lamp
$40

Perhaps your wall is crowded with decor or you simply desire a less obvious light source. If that's the case, this slim cylindrical sconce is for you. It looks incredibly sleek, plus it's rotatable so you can adjust the direction as needed. The best part? It's also portable, making it great for everything from power outages to late-night bathroom runs, too.

$40 at Amazon
Tavellio Lizzy Wireless Rechargeable Wooden Wall Lamp
$67

For those looking for an out-of-the-box lamp, this Etsy find is sure to check all the boxes. Featuring a unique cube design, this lamp is rechargeable, dimmable, and offers an impressive 80-hour battery life. Not bad for a little guy.

$67 at Etsy
Littoral Wood Armed Sconce (Set of 2)
$122

Looking for a wall sconce that leans a bit more boho? Say hello to the Littoral sconce from Bay Isle Home. Coming in a set of two, each light features a handmade bamboo woven lantern that instantly adds a cozy feel. And not only are these lamps wireless and rechargeable, but they also have multiple color temperature settings and a timer to help preserve that battery.

$122 at Wayfair
PERMO Classic Industrial Wall Sconce, Set of 2
$108

There's no denying that these shaded sconces are positively stunning with their brass bodies and Art Deco design. These are a must if you have a fireplace or simply want to make your common areas look more refined and luxurious. Unlike some of the other sconces on our list, these don't lie flush against the wall, which is great if you want some added dimension.

$108 at Amazon
Roxy Armed Sconce
$66$46

Those after a more rustic vibe can opt for this caged bulb, which is mounted to a textured wooden plank. This is one of those sconces that looks great both indoors and outdoors, so you might even grab a few for a cohesive look throughout your home. Its industrial look will add a down-to-earth, homey sensibility to any room or porch.

$46 at Wayfair
Battery-Operated Vintage Adjustable Wall Sconces, Set of 2
$50$4412% off

Although these rechargeable sconces are operable through an included remote control, they look anything but newfangled. Their black iron construction makes them both sturdy and vintage-looking, though you won't be paying a hefty antique price when you buy the set. And imagine how convenient it'll be to control their light settings without having to leave the couch!

$44 at Amazon
Modern LED Touch Switch Wall Sconce, Set of 2
$29

There's something about a touch-controlled lamp that has the power to bring out almost anyone's inner child. It surely feels satisfying to tap on this rectangular light's bisecting bar to adjust its dimness level. We also like that there are a variety of size options, including one not much bigger than a smartphone, which makes this set suitable for all types of spaces.

$29 at Amazon
Dimmable Wireless Wall Sconce, Set of 2
$159$139

This gold-toned sconce set also comes with a remote, though you can also adjust the fixtures' settings by tapping directly on them. You not only get four different color settings, but you can also set the sconces to the color-changing mode and adjust the transitions so that the colors fade, flash, or strobe into each other.

$139 at Bed Bath & Beyond
Maxsa Battery-Powered Motion-Activated Wall Sconce
$64

Consider this Maxsa Battery-Powered Motion-Activated Wall Sconce if you want an outdoor solution. It doubles as security because it's motion-activated and is made of sturdy metal and glass construction to withstand the elements. Available in three colors — copper, bronze, and black — it's an easy sell!

$64 at QVC.com

More to Love from Apartment Therapy