Buying guide for Best wall-mounted makeup mirrors
Written by Jennifer Blair
Updated November 2022
Whether you’re creating the perfect smoky eye or tweezing stray hairs to shape your brows, having a clear view of what you’re doing is important when you’re getting ready in the morning. That’s why a high-quality makeup mirror is such a good investment. For many, a wall-mounted makeup mirror is the best option because it’s easy to get the perfect angle.
Some wall-mounted makeup mirrors have built-in lights to enhance your view. Some have two sides so you can choose between different magnifications. How do you choose?
Some wall-mounted makeup mirrors with built-in lighting have a dimmer switch so you can adjust the brightness as necessary.
Key considerations
Fixed vs. adjustable
Some wall-mounted makeup mirrors sit flush to the wall and cannot be moved at all. These tend to be the largest options, but as a tradeoff, you don’t have any adjustability. If you want a mirror that offers a large, broad view of your face and don’t mind leaning in when you need a closer look, this type of mirror could be for you.
Adjustable wall-mounted mirrors attach to a wall-mounted arm that may be hinged, telescopic, or swinging. You can adjust the angle of the mirror and bring it closer to your face when necessary. These mirrors offer the most versatility and are ideal for tasks like applying eyeliner or false eyelashes.
Single-sided vs. double-sided
Fixed wall-mounted makeup mirrors are obviously all one-sided. However, many adjustable wall-mounted mirrors have two sides, each with a mirror offering a different magnification. A double-sided makeup mirror is ideal if you want the ability to see in greater detail (for tweezing and such), but you also want the option of a wider view.
"A wall-mounted makeup mirror with an adjustable arm can fold up against the wall. This is convenient because you can tuck it away when not in use. "
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Features
Size
Some fixed makeup mirrors measure as much as 79 inches tall. However, the majority are 24 to 36 inches tall.
Adjustable wall-mounted makeup mirrors are often smaller. Many are round or oval in shape. Opt for an adjustable mirror that’s at least eight inches in diameter to make sure you can see your entire face.
Shape
Wall-mounted makeup mirrors come in a variety of shapes. Shape doesn’t necessarily affect performance, but you may prefer one shape over another based on the décor of your bathroom or vanity.
Fixed wall-mounted mirrors are often cut in the classical rectangular or square shape. Adjustable wall-mounted mirrors, on the other hand, come in rectangular, square, round, and oval shapes. Some homeowners find round and oval mirrors more attractive and modern. The fact that a round or oval mirror mimic the shape of the face appeals to some, too.
Finish
Most wall-mounted makeup mirrors have a frame to give them a finished look. Here are some common finishes.
- Brushed nickel
- Polished nickel
- Satin nickel
- Polished chrome
- Satin chrome
- Antique pewter
- Satin brass
- Polished brass
- Antique brass
- Brushed bronze
- Oiled bronze
- Antique bronze
- Antique copper
- Black matte
Magnification
A mirror’s magnification affects how well you’re able to see small details, like that one stray hair in your brow that needs to be plucked. A mirror without any magnification works well for broader tasks like putting on foundation, but if you want to be able to see a little closer, a mirror with a magnification of 3X to 5X may be your best bet. (If your vision is impaired, however, you may prefer a mirror with 10X or even 15X magnification.
Keep in mind that the stronger a mirror’s magnification is, the farther away you’ll have to stand to prevent distortion.
If you’re not sure what magnification suits your needs, consider a double-sided mirror with two different magnifications. One side usually provides no or low magnification, while the other typically features 5X to 15X magnification.
Lighting
Some wall-mounted makeup mirrors feature built-in lighting to make it easier to see what you’re doing. Lighting is particularly important if you plan to mount your mirror in a bathroom without windows.
Some wall-mounted makeup mirrors feature a series of bulbs that light the frame. Others have interior bulbs that light up the exterior frame. For the most natural, energy-efficient option, choose a mirror with LED lighting.
Pay attention to how the light is powered, too: some mirrors must be plugged into an outlet, while others run on batteries.
Fog resistance
A makeup mirror mounted in the bathroom can easily get fogged up after you take a shower. Avoid this problem by opting for a fog-resistant mirror, which features a hydrophobic coating on the glass to prevent water from sticking to it.
Expert Tip
A makeup mirror with a high magnification is ideal for tasks that require precision, such as tweezing, shaving, and applying eyeliner or mascara.
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Wall-mounted makeup mirror prices
Wall-mounted makeup mirrors vary in price based on their size, number of sides, and other special features. You could spend as little as $25 and as much as $500 for a wall-mounted makeup mirror.
Inexpensive
The most affordable choices are small and adjustable with a mirror on just one side and no built-in lights. For $25 to $75, you can find some quality smaller mirrors.
Mid-range
An adjustable mirror with two sides and built-in lighting costs more — typically between $75 and $200. However, the extra expense might make your morning grooming routine easier.
Expensive
The priciest wall-mounted makeup mirrors are usually large or extra-large fixed models with built-in lighting. They range from $200 to $500 depending on size and are ideal if you need a mirror for your vanity area.
Did you know?
Some wall-mounted makeup mirrors with built-in lighting can be hardwired into your home’s electrical system. Consider this option if you don’t want to have to plug the mirror into an outlet each time you use it.
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Tips
- Install your makeup mirror slightly lower than eye level. If you stand to do your makeup, a height of 55 to 60 inches over the floor is usually ideal. If you prefer to sit, a height of approximately 45 inches off the ground could work well.
- Make sure your makeup mirror is securely mounted to the wall. You’ll want to locate a stud in the wall where you can attach the mounting hardware.
- When you mount the mirror to the wall, take care not to over-tighten the screws. Doing so could damage the drywall beneath.
- Clean your makeup mirror with a microfiber cloth. It won’t leave lint behind on the glass like paper towels or other cleaning cloths can.
Wall-mounting a mirror gives it more stability. A wall-mounted makeup mirror is less likely to fall and break than a tabletop makeup mirror.
FAQ
Q. Are wall-mounted makeup mirrors difficult to install?
A. Installing a wall-mounted makeup mirror is a fairly easy DIY project. The mirror should come with all the mounting hardware you need, including screws. You’ll need to locate a stud in the wall and drill pilot holes for the screws. With the holes pre-drilled, you then screw in the mounting plate and attach the mirror to the plate.
Q. Do wall-mounted makeup mirrors with built-in lighting include bulbs?
A. Lighted wall-mounted mirrors usually come with the bulbs needed to illuminate the mirror. However, you may eventually need to replace burnt-out bulbs. Most manufacturers sell replacement bulbs.
