Wall-Mounted Makeup Mirror Guide
How do I choose a wall mounted makeup mirror?
To choose a wall mounted makeup mirror, decide whether you need lighting, choose the mounting type, select magnification, and then consider finish, size, and overall quality.
Wall-mounted mirrors are ideal for bathrooms and permanent installations. The steps below will help you choose the right one.
Step 1: Lighted or non-lighted?
Lighted mirrors
- Provide consistent illumination
- Best for bathrooms with limited or uneven lighting
Most modern lighted mirrors use LED lighting. Incandescent lighting is now rare.
Power options:
- Hardwired: Clean, permanent installation; no visible cord
- Plug-in: Easier installation with a visible cord
- Cordless (rechargeable): Flexible placement without wiring
Non-lighted mirrors
- No electrical connection required
- Best where lighting is already sufficient
Step 2: Reversible or non-reversible?
- Reversible mirrors: One side magnified, one side non-magnified
- Non-reversible mirrors: Single magnification level
Most non-lighted mirrors are reversible. Lighted mirrors are more often non-reversible.
Step 3: Choose magnification
Most people should choose 5x magnification, with 7x as the next most popular option.
- 5x: Best balance of detail and usability
- 7x: More detail, requires closer viewing distance
- 8x–10x: Best for precision work or vision limitations
Higher magnification requires standing closer to the mirror and shows a smaller portion of the face.
Step 4: Choose a finish
- Polished Chrome: Most popular; matches most bathroom fixtures
- Polished Nickel: Slightly softer tone than chrome; less “blue”
- Other finishes: Matte Black, Brushed Nickel, Brushed Brass, Stainless Steel
Some premium manufacturers offer a wide range of finishes. For example, Miroir Brot offers many custom finish options.
Step 5: Choose size and extension
Mirror size
Check product dimensions carefully before purchasing.
- Larger mirrors generally provide a better viewing experience
- A larger mirror surface can improve perceived image quality
Extension from the wall
Most bathroom counters are approximately 22 inches deep.
In most cases, a mirror that extends about 14 inches from the wall is sufficient.
Longer extensions offer somewhat more flexibility.
Keep in mind:
- Your face is usually positioned 4–6 inches closer than the counter edge
- You typically stand 4–6 inches away from the mirror
These distances combine to make standard extension arms suitable for most installations.
Step 6: Consider quality and construction
Image quality
- Higher-quality mirrors provide clearer, distortion-free reflections
- Look for high-quality or silver-backed mirror glass
Lighting quality (for lighted mirrors)
- LED color accuracy and consistency matter
- Higher-end mirrors provide better color rendering and longevity
Build quality and longevity
- Designed for long-term installation
- Premium materials include:
- Triple-plated steel
- Solid brass
- Stainless steel
If you are installing a permanent fixture, investing in higher quality is usually worthwhile.
Step 7: Choose a brand and budget level
Wall-mounted makeup mirrors are available at several quality levels:
Good
- Basic functionality
- Lower price point
- Examples: Jerdon Style, Beslagsboden
Better
- Improved materials and durability
- More consistent lighting and magnification
- Examples: Alfi brand, Whitehaus
Best
- Professional-quality mirrors
- Superior optics and lighting
- Examples: Kimball & Young, Smedbo, Electric Mirror
Outstanding
- Luxury-grade construction and finishes
- Exceptional hand craftsmanship and customization
- Examples: Miroir Brot, Cristal & Bronze
Quick decision guide
- Remodeling or permanent install → Hardwired wall-mounted mirror
- Need flexibility → Plug-in or cordless
- Low lighting → Lighted mirror
- Unsure on magnification → Choose 5x
- Want best performance → Choose a higher-end brand