Lowe's vs Wayfair for October 2023 | Best Light Fixture Stores

Item: Lowe's vs Wayfair
Rating: 4.5
Author: Top Consumer Reviews

Monday, October 2nd

2023 Light Fixture Store Reviews

Lowe's

Over 40,000 light fixtures to choose from
"A+" rated and accredited by the BBB
Free in-store pickup
Free delivery on orders of $45+
90-day return policy; retailer pays return shipping fees or return in-store

As one of two big-box home improvement retailers in our evaluation, Lowe's comes in just a little behind its big-name rival - but it's still a fantastic place to shop for light fixtures. With over 40,000 lighting options that you can order online and get delivered for free or pick up in-store, plus the convenience of a 90-day return policy, Lowe's can definitely help you get your next lighting project done.

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Wayfair

Almost 100,000 light fixtures to choose from
"A+" rated and accredited by the BBB
Free shipping on orders over $35
30-day return policy; customer pays for return shipping costs

You'll have a hard time finding a selection of light fixtures more vast than Wayfair's. This retailer of all things home has everything from basic replacements for your outdoor lights to an antler chandelier you might find at a theme park! There's plenty of shopper feedback on most products, and you'll get free shipping if your order is over $35. The only reason not to shop here for light fixtures is the lack of expert help: if you're not confident in your installation abilities or product selection, you won't get much input from Wayfair before or after your purchase.

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Lights Online

Light in the Box

Where Can You Find the Best Light Fixtures Online?

Whether you're looking for bright, new outdoor lights to increase your home's security or a gorgeous pendant light to update your entryway, there are literally tens of thousands of options - but only when you take advantage of the selection offered by internet retailers. No brick-and-mortar store near you can even come close!

What if I'm not sure which light fixture I need? Is it really a good idea to buy something I haven't seen in person? Rest assured that most online retailers of light fixtures go out of their way to help you get the perfect lighting, with detailed product descriptions, ALA-certified experts on standby for any questions before or after you place your order, and generous return policies that let you get a refund or make an exchange if needed.

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Light Fixture Store FAQ

What is a light fixture?

A light fixture is an electric device used to illuminate a room. They can be used to beautify a space and add to the aesthetic. Buying a nice light fixture is like buying a piece of furniture because they can make such a statement in a room. Some light fixtures are basic and nearly unnoticeable, such as can lights, while other light fixtures are large, hang from the ceiling, contain ornate details, and use multiple light bulbs.

How do I install my light fixture?

Most light fixtures are going to differ in the way they are installed in the ceiling or wall. You'll usually have to assemble the light fixture before you can even begin the installation process. Every light fixture comes with step-by-step details for assembly as well as an inventory of all the parts included and what they are for. Follow the instructions for assembly and installation. If you need additional help, you could look up a video online or hire an electrician.

How much does a new light fixture cost?

The price of a light fixture depends on the brand, materials, size, weight, and style. If you're going for something simple and timeless, you could stay in the $100 price range. However, for a modern, stylish light fixture you could easily spend $500 or more. Some retailers offer crystal or diamond chandeliers that cost upwards of $50,000. There are thousands of light fixtures to choose from in all different price ranges. Whatever you choose, keep in mind that the light fixture will be a staple part of your home that you might have forever. Make sure you select something you love, even if it is priced slightly higher than you planned for!

What styles of light fixtures are there?

Whether the style of your space is farmhouse, modern, chic, industrial, or bohemia, there are light fixtures you can buy online to match. There are eight main categories of light fixtures that you might choose from depending on the design of your walls and ceilings. They include architectural, recessed (like can lights), track, undercabinet, pendants, chandeliers, ceiling, and wall sconces. Selecting which of these designs will work best for your space is one of the first steps when you shop for light fixtures online.

What light bulbs are needed for my light fixture?

Some light fixtures will come with the bulbs they need, so you won't have to make a trip to the store or spend extra money on them. However, most light fixtures have a particular size of bulb they need, but you can choose the temperature of bulb you prefer. The primary colors are soft white, bright white/cool white, and daylight. Depending on if you like a room to have more yellow or white lighting, you can select the type of light bulb that creates the ambiance you like best.

Is it possible to return a light fixture?

Yes, it is possible to return a light fixture. Maybe it doesn't match your decor like you hoped or the size is different than you'd imagined. Either way, most light fixture retailers will offer anywhere between a 30- and 90-day return policy for unused items. You'll usually be able to send it back for a full refund or a store credit so you can exchange it for a new light fixture.

Do I need to reinforce my ceiling if I buy a heavy light fixture?

Some of the most stunning light fixtures end up being big and heavy. To stay on the safe side, it is best to buy a brace to support the weight. The drywall of plaster on a ceiling is not meant to support heavy objects, so to avoid any issues you can purchase a brace for around $20 at your local hardware store. There are plenty of online videos to walk you through the installation process safely.

What rooms of the house are best for fancy light fixtures?

If you have the money and the eye for it, adding a beautiful light fixture to all your rooms will stun everyone who walks through your doors. However, it is not necessary to have unique lighting in every room. Some of the main areas where fancy light fixtures can make a big difference are your entryway, dining room, living room, home office, and kitchen. These are high-traffic areas where the light fixtures will both be used and enjoyed often.

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Of course, if you want the best of both worlds, you can always consider buying your lighting online from a big-box home improvement store near you: better selection with the convenience of local returns!

Best of all, shopping for light fixtures online makes it even more likely that you'll find something you truly love - not just what happened to be in stock at the local hardware store. If you're looking for lighting that's not a carbon copy of everyone else's in your neighborhood or you've got a unique decor you're trying to enhance, you'll definitely want to have as many options as possible.

Which store should you use for buying your light fixtures? There are many excellent retailers out there and it could feel a little overwhelming deciding where to start. Consider the following criteria as you choose which store gets your business:

Easy-to-Use Website. Does the retailer make it quick and painless to sort through the thousands (or tens of thousands!) of light fixtures they carry? Are there buying guides or style recommendations if you need some inspiration or help?
Selection. More inventory means you're more likely to find several light fixtures that you like.
Customer Perks. Some stores sweeten the deal with free shipping, price matching, or generous return policies that even pay for the shipping back to the warehouse if you need a refund or exchange.
Reputation. Have other customers had a good experience with the business? Are there shopper reviews and ratings on individual light fixtures? Does the retailer do a better-than-average job of responding to any customer complaints?

To help you find the right lighting for your home or office, TopConsumerReviews.com has evaluated and ranked the best online retailers of light fixtures available today. We're confident that this information will make it quick, easy, and affordable to change the look and feel of your decor!