The Best Decorative Lantern | 2023
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Our Picks For The Top Decorative Lanterns
- The Best Decorative Lantern
- 1. Bright Zeal Cross Grids Pattern Decorative Lanterns, 2-Pack
- 2. zkee Tabletop Party Decorative Lanterns, 8-Pack
- 3. LampLust LED Candle Metal Decorative Lanterns, 2-Pack
- 4. YAKii Weatherproof Shell Decorative Lantern
- 5. EXCMARK Solar Powered Garden Decorative Lanterns, 2-Pack
- 6. Evermore Light Timer & LED Candle Decorative Lanterns, 2-Pack
Classic AppealYou'll love that this two-pack of decorative lanterns use timers and come with the requisite AAA batteries.
Real-Looking FireYou can set this decorative lantern to turn on and off at certain times every day, and you will love how it looks when lit.
Cozy AmbienceWarm up your space with the glow from these pretty lamps.
Bright and WaterproofIts aesthetically-pleasing design and ease of use make this lantern an excellent gift for anyone on your list at any time of year.
Flickering, decorative candle lanterns that use wax candles can be beautiful, but they have a downside: cleaning up the melted and hardened wax can be a tedious, time-consuming chore. Not only does the mess tend to get onto the glass, but it can also flow into the nooks and crannies of the lantern, possibly requiring the whole thing to be thrown out.
There’s no reason to deal with all that, since you can achieve nearly the same look and atmosphere with battery-powered LED lantern candles. They come in different sizes and finishes, but they all create a calming ambience without a mess. Best of all, there is no need to worry about these lanterns causing a fire.
Vintage-themed lanterns are trendy, but lanterns of any aesthetic can be made from metal, plastic or wood. Look for options with unadorned glass panes or with cross grids. It’s handy to get the types that have hooks on top, as they can be easily suspended or displayed on tables. Some feature solid panels with cut-outs, allowing the light to shine out in splendid, flickering patterns.
It is also wise to buy battery-powered decorative lanterns that have automatic shut-off features or timers. This way, if you forget to turn the lantern off — which you will definitely do — the batteries are less likely to die in a hurry. Kerosene-style LED lanterns have a more rustic look, and some also have dimmer features.
For maximum eco-friendliness and power efficiency, there are also solar-powered decorative lamps on the market that may or may not require batteries. These may also have automatic shut-off features built in.
The Best Decorative Lanterns
Bright Zeal Cross Grids Pattern Decorative Lanterns, 2-Pack
These lightweight vintage lanterns are finished with an attractive black metallic coating and feature crossing grids. They have strong glass panes and large LED pillar candles at the center that cast a soft, warm glow. Hang them from the attached ring or place on a flat surface.
Features
Specifications
zkee Tabletop Party Decorative Lanterns, 8-Pack
With a bright flickering LED flame nestled behind durable tempered glass panes, this lovely decorative lantern requires two AA batteries. It can shine for up to 50 days when you use the included timer to control battery usage.
Features
Specifications
LampLust LED Candle Metal Decorative Lanterns, 2-Pack
Each of these charming 4-by-4-by-8-inch decorative lanterns has a vintage gold finish and works on batteries, which are included. Best of all, these have a six-hour timer, so you don't have to worry if you forget to turn them off.
Features
Specifications
YAKii Weatherproof Shell Decorative Lantern
Measuring 13.7 inches high and 5.6 inches wide, this hanging glass candle lantern looks elegant. Still, it's more than just good looks. It is made from durable plastic that can stand up to the elements and has a built-in timer. It comes in white, ivory or black.
Features
Specifications
EXCMARK Solar Powered Garden Decorative Lanterns, 2-Pack
This unconventional decorative solar lantern comes in both black or bronze metals. It has an intricate design that projects incredible shadows when lit. It does not need a power cord, works in the sunlight and looks impressive on decks and patios.
Features
Specifications
Our Decorative Lantern Buying Guide
Flickering, decorative candle lanterns that use wax candles can be beautiful, but they have a downside: cleaning up the melted and hardened wax can be a tedious, time-consuming chore. Not only does the mess tend to get onto the glass, but it can also flow into the nooks and crannies of the lantern, possibly requiring the whole thing to be thrown out.
There’s no reason to deal with all that, since you can achieve nearly the same look and atmosphere with battery-powered LED lantern candles. They come in different sizes and finishes, but they all create a calming ambience without a mess. Best of all, there is no need to worry about these lanterns causing a fire.
Vintage-themed lanterns are trendy, but lanterns of any aesthetic can be made from metal, plastic or wood. Look for options with unadorned glass panes or with cross grids. It’s handy to get the types that have hooks on top, as they can be easily suspended or displayed on tables. Some feature solid panels with cut-outs, allowing the light to shine out in splendid, flickering patterns.
It is also wise to buy battery-powered decorative lanterns that have automatic shut-off features or timers. This way, if you forget to turn the lantern off — which you will definitely do — the batteries are less likely to die in a hurry. Kerosene-style LED lanterns have a more rustic look, and some also have dimmer features.
For maximum eco-friendliness and power efficiency, there are also solar-powered decorative lamps on the market that may or may not require batteries. These may also have automatic shut-off features built in.
DWYM Fun Fact
Lanterns have been used for centuries but these handy devices got their time in the spotlight (pun intended) thanks to a superhero.
DC Comics’ Green Lantern first appeared in a comic book back in 1940. The hero, everyday dude Alan Scott, finds a green railroad lantern containing a mystical orb called “Starheart.” The globe directs Scott to create a ring out of its magical material and gives him the power to fly and create all manner of things using the power of the ring.
In later incarnations, the character Hal Jordan replaces Scott’s Green Lantern, and instead of a lantern, his powers come from the alien Abin Sur, who is from the planet Ungara.
The Decorative Lantern Tips and Advice
- Some, but not all, battery-powered decorative lanterns come with batteries. Read the product description carefully to know for sure. Either way, it makes sense to buy some extra batteries when you buy the lantern as they will inevitably run out.
- Solar-powered decorative lanterns have batteries that can work indoors or outdoors, making them more versatile.
- Portable battery-powered lanterns can also be functional. You can bring them out to your deck or on camping trips. They are also good to have on hand in case the power goes out.
- If you plan to use the lantern outdoors, verify that it’s made of waterproof materials.
- Some lanterns even have built-in Bluetooth speakers, making them perfect for gatherings or outdoor lounging.
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About The Author
Danielle Smyth is a writer and content marketing expert based in New York. She has been writing on business and finance, home and garden, DIY, travel and tourism, and a variety of other topics for over a decade, and she holds a Master of Science in Publishing from Pace University. Danielle loves working on product reviews and helping others find the highest quality items and the best values. An avid gardener and home improvement fanatic, she is always looking for new products to make life easier.