Plug in sconces give you the look of a wall mounted light with none of the electrical work. The fixture screws to the wall and a cord runs down to a nearby outlet, often with an inline or touch switch. That makes them a smart choice for renters, older homes without junction boxes and anyone who wants bedside or reading light without waiting for an electrician. Our selection includes swing arms with fabric, glass and trumpet shades, travertine and cave stone sconces, two tone macaron colors, a brass hand and moon, a cloud lamp for a nursery and goosenecks with USB charging.

Installing a plug in sconce neatly

• Cord length and outlet: Measure from the mounting spot to the outlet before you order, and plan a path so the cord runs straight down or along the edge of furniture.
• Cord covers: A slim paintable raceway turns a dangling cord into a clean line. Paint it to match the wall and it nearly disappears.
• Switch access: Look for a switch on the cord, on the base or a touch panel you can reach from bed or a chair.
• Anchors: Use wall anchors in drywall or screw into a stud, especially for swing arms that put leverage on the wall when extended.

Placement tip: In a rental bedroom, mount a pair of plug in sconces above the nightstands and run both cords behind the headboard to a power strip. You get hotel style bedside light without touching the wiring.

Our plug in wall sconces guide covers mounting in more detail, and swing arm sconces offer more adjustable designs.