Lighted vs Non Lighted Wall Mounted Vanity Mirrors Compared

Key takeaways

• Lighted wall mounted vanity mirrors offer built-in task lighting that makes makeup, shaving and skincare easier, especially in bathrooms with weak or uneven overhead lights.
• Non lighted mirrors are simpler to install, often cheaper upfront and ideal if your bathroom already has good lighting or you prefer a minimal, frameless look.
• Backlit designs create a soft glow and reduce harsh edges, while front-lit mirrors put light directly on your face for more precise grooming.
• Many modern LED mirrors, such as the Crownhsop 70 x 50 cm illuminated mirror, include dimming, colour temperature control and anti-fog features that improve everyday usability.
• Consider wiring access, bathroom size, humidity level and your main bathroom routines when deciding whether a lighted or non lighted wall mounted vanity mirror is the better long-term choice.

Lighted vs non lighted wall mounted vanity mirrors: quick overview

At a glance, the difference seems obvious: one mirror has built-in lighting, the other does not. In practice, the choice affects installation, bathroom layout, energy use and how comfortably you can see your face. Lighted mirrors combine reflective glass, LEDs and often anti-fog film in a single unit. Non lighted mirrors are simply the mirror surface (with or without a frame), relying on existing room lighting.

Lighted mirrors shine in bathrooms where a single ceiling light throws shadows or where natural light is limited. They place light close to your face and can sometimes replace wall sconces entirely. Non lighted mirrors shine (figuratively) when you already have carefully planned lighting or when you want the flexibility to change lighting without swapping out the mirror.

Installation, wiring and IP ratings

Installation is one of the biggest differences between lighted and non lighted wall mounted vanity mirrors. A simple non lighted framed or frameless mirror usually needs only secure fixings into the wall and careful levelling. In most cases, a confident DIYer can handle it with basic tools, making it a fast, low-stress upgrade.

Lighted mirrors, by contrast, usually require a power connection. Some plug into a nearby socket; others are designed to be hard-wired into the bathroom circuit, often linked to a wall switch. In many homes, especially in bathrooms, that means involving a qualified electrician to comply with safety rules and to keep any warranty intact.

IP ratings and bathroom safety zones

Because bathrooms are humid and often wet environments, any electrical product near water should have a suitable IP (Ingress Protection) rating. An IP rating tells you how well the enclosure keeps out dust and moisture. For most mirrors near a basin, an IP44 or higher rating is a sensible benchmark, as it indicates protection against splashes.

Some lighted vanity mirrors are specifically rated for bathroom use. For example, the Crownhsop 70 x 50 cm LED bathroom mirror carries an IP54 rating, meaning it is protected against dust and water splashes from any direction. Non lighted mirrors do not need such ratings because they contain no electricity, making them inherently simpler from a safety perspective.

As a rule of thumb, if the mirror has built-in lighting and is anywhere near a basin, shower or bath, look for an IP rating and follow the manufacturer's recommended installation zones.

Backlit vs front-lit lighted mirrors

Lighted wall mounted vanity mirrors typically fall into two visual camps: backlit and front-lit. Backlit mirrors have LED strips hidden behind the glass, casting a halo of light on the wall. This looks sleek and modern, creates a floating effect, and gives a soft, ambient glow that is excellent for mood lighting and general visibility.

Front-lit mirrors place the LEDs around the perimeter of the glass or integrated into the surface itself. This design pushes light directly onto your face, which is far better for detail work like eyeliner, precise shaving and skincare checks. The ChillCruiser 700 mm round LED mirror is a good example of a backlit-style mirror that also delivers strong face lighting thanks to its light spread.

Which design suits which bathroom?

If your bathroom already has good overhead lighting or wall sconces, a backlit mirror can add depth and style without needing to do all the lighting work. It is especially effective on light-coloured or tiled walls where the halo effect is more visible. In small bathrooms, the glow can make the room feel larger and less boxy.

If you rely heavily on the mirror for daily grooming or have poor natural light, a front-lit or hybrid design will generally serve you better. Light coming from the front reduces the under-eye shadows often caused by ceiling lights. Some magnifying lighted mirrors, such as the Auxmir 30x magnifying wall mirror, mount to the wall on an extendable arm, placing the light exactly where you need it without changing your main vanity mirror at all.

Day-to-day usability: makeup, shaving and more

From a practical perspective, the main reason many people consider a lighted mirror is usability. If you struggle with patchy lighting during makeup, or you often find yourself leaning into the mirror for a closer look while shaving, getting light closer to your face can be transformative.

Lighted mirrors typically provide more consistent illumination than relying on a ceiling light alone. Dimmable and colour-temperature-adjustable models let you tune the lighting to your task: cooler, whiter light for detailed work and warmer light for a more flattering everyday look. This flexibility is particularly useful if more than one person uses the bathroom, each with slightly different preferences.

Non lighted mirrors with good room lighting

There are many situations where a non lighted mirror still performs perfectly. If your bathroom has a combination of ceiling spots and wall lights placed on either side of the mirror, you might already have very even, shadow-free lighting. In these cases, adding an LED mirror could be unnecessary complexity and cost.

Non lighted mirrors also work well when you prefer a large statement mirror or a particular framed style. You can then pair it with adjustable wall lights or ceiling fixtures that you can replace or reposition without disturbing the mirror. For example, in a traditional scheme with a framed mirror, separate sconces often look more authentic while still giving excellent task lighting.

Controls, dimming and colour temperature

Modern lighted vanity mirrors often come with touch controls, dimming and colour-temperature adjustment built into the glass. This lets you tap or long-press the logo or small icon to cycle through warm, neutral and cool white, and to increase or decrease brightness. Many models also include memory functions to remember your last setting.

The Crownhsop LED bathroom mirror and the ChillCruiser round LED mirror both offer three colour modes and dimmable brightness with memory, meaning once you find a setting that suits your bathroom and skin tone, you can keep returning to it effortlessly.

When simple is better

While these features are genuinely helpful, they do add complexity. If you prefer intuitive, physical switches or you do not like touch-sensitive surfaces, a non lighted mirror plus a conventional dimmable wall light might suit you more. It avoids potential confusion for guests or children, who may not realise the mirror has built-in controls at all.

Another scenario where simple wins is in guest bathrooms or cloakrooms that see lighter use. In these spaces, a well-placed non lighted mirror supported by a single ceiling or wall light is usually more than enough, and you can reserve lighted mirrors for the main family bathroom or en-suite where the extra control is genuinely needed.

Energy use and LED longevity

LED technology is designed to be energy-efficient, and most lighted bathroom mirrors draw relatively modest power compared with older bulbs or even some ceiling fittings. Many mirrors use low-wattage LED strips that deliver bright, even illumination without significantly increasing running costs.

Over the lifetime of the mirror, LEDs are generally long-lasting. They can be rated for many tens of thousands of hours of use. However, unlike a standard bulb, the LEDs and driver are often built into the mirror. When the lighting eventually fails, you may not be able to replace individual components easily, which means potentially replacing the whole mirror.

Non lighted mirrors and separate lighting

With a non lighted mirror, any energy use comes from the separate lighting you choose. This can be an advantage if you already have LED ceiling lights or wall sconces, because you can upgrade those independently over time. It also means you are not locked into the mirror's specific light output or efficiency.

Battery-powered or rechargeable lighted magnifying mirrors, such as the Auxmir 30x magnifying model with extendable arm, are another option. They add focused light only when you need it, without adding permanent electrical consumption to your main mirror.

Cost: upfront price vs long-term value

Non lighted wall mounted vanity mirrors usually win on upfront price. Because they are essentially glass and a frame (or just glass with polished edges), they are simpler to manufacture and install. If you are updating a bathroom on a tight budget, a good-quality non lighted mirror plus carefully chosen lighting can be very cost-effective.

Lighted mirrors cost more initially, both for the product and for any electrical work. However, they can sometimes replace separate wall lights, reduce the need for extra fittings and provide better day-to-day usability. Over the long term, this can feel like good value, especially if you use the mirror heavily for grooming and want consistent results.

When comparing prices, include the cost of any extra lights, electrician time and potential future upgrades. A slightly higher upfront investment can be worthwhile if it solves multiple problems at once.

Troubleshooting glare and shadowing

Glare and awkward shadows are common complaints, and they can affect both lighted and non lighted setups. With lighted mirrors, glare often comes from LEDs that are too bright or not diffused enough, especially at eye level. Dimmable models help here, allowing you to lower brightness for comfort while still getting good clarity.

Shadowing tends to appear when the only light is above your head or behind you, creating dark patches under the eyes, nose and chin. Front-lit mirrors and side lighting are the best fixes. If you choose a non lighted mirror, adding a pair of sconces on either side of it usually gives a far more flattering, shadow-free effect than a single central fitting.

When a non lighted mirror is the better choice

Despite the appeal of LEDs, simple non lighted mirrors are still the best choice in many bathrooms. If your space has large windows, good natural light and a ceiling layout that already offers even illumination, an unlit mirror keeps the wall clean and uncluttered. It is also ideal if you favour traditional frames or want the freedom to change your lighting scheme over time without touching the mirror.

Non lighted mirrors also avoid the need for wiring and maintenance. In rental properties, listed buildings or spaces where chasing cables into walls is difficult or prohibited, a non lighted mirror plus plug-in or surface-mounted lights may be the only practical option. For a deeper dive into style choices, have a look at our comparison of framed vs frameless bathroom vanity wall mirrors.

When a lighted wall mounted vanity mirror wins

A lighted mirror comes into its own when bathroom lighting is limited, your daily routines demand clarity, or you enjoy a sleek, hotel-style look with minimal visible fittings. In compact en-suites without room for wall sconces, a backlit or front-lit mirror can replace separate lighting and keep the wall visually tidy.

If you are still undecided about investing in LEDs, it can be helpful to read a broader discussion such as our guide on whether LED wall mounted vanity mirrors are worth it. In many cases, the added clarity, anti-fog features and cleaner aesthetic tip the balance in favour of a lighted design, especially in the main bathroom where you spend the most time.

Lighted vs non lighted: quick decision checklist

To make the decision fast and clear, use these prompts as a mental checklist.

Choose a lighted mirror if:

• Your current bathroom lighting creates shadows on your face.
• You apply detailed makeup, shave daily or follow a skincare routine at the mirror.
• You like modern, minimal design and want to avoid extra wall lights.
• You are happy to involve an electrician (or have an accessible socket) for installation.
• Features like anti-fog, dimming and colour temperature control appeal to you.

Choose a non lighted mirror if:

• Your bathroom already has well-planned task lighting.
• You prefer classic or decorative frames or a large frameless panel.
• You want the simplest, most budget-friendly installation.
• You are in a rental or building where wiring changes are difficult.
• You would rather upgrade lighting separately from the mirror in future.

Spotlight on example products

Seeing how specific mirrors approach lighting and usability can help clarify what might work in your own bathroom. Below are three contrasting examples representing common choices.

Crownhsop 70 x 50 cm LED bathroom mirror

This rectangular mirror is a good example of an all-rounder lighted vanity mirror. It combines an IP54 rating with three colour temperatures, dimming and a memory function. The anti-fog feature means the central viewing area stays clear even after a hot shower, making it practical in busy family bathrooms.

It can be mounted horizontally or vertically, giving flexibility over how you pair it with your basin. The built-in touch controls keep the design clean, and the integrated LEDs remove the need for separate wall lights in many layouts. You can explore the full details of the Crownhsop illuminated bathroom mirror to see how these features come together in practice.

ChillCruiser 700 mm round LED mirror

The ChillCruiser mirror shows how a backlit, round design can soften a bathroom with hard lines. Its backlit halo adds atmosphere while still providing enough forward-facing light for everyday routines. Like the Crownhsop, it offers three colour modes, dimming and a memory function, plus anti-fog for consistent clarity.

This kind of round backlit mirror is particularly effective above a floating vanity or in contemporary en-suites. If you like the idea of a statement piece that also handles lighting, looking at the ChillCruiser 700 mm LED vanity mirror can help you visualise the effect.

Auxmir 30x rechargeable magnifying mirror

The Auxmir magnifying mirror with 30x zoom and an extendable arm illustrates another approach: combining a simple main mirror with a smaller, lighted accessory. It is double-sided, with one standard and one magnifying surface, and its built-in rechargeable lighting is ideal for precision work such as tweezing or eyeliner.

Because it mounts to the wall separately, you can keep a non lighted primary mirror and add the Auxmir only when you need close-up clarity. Its rechargeable design avoids permanent wiring, and the extendable arm lets you position it comfortably. You can see how this works in practice by viewing the Auxmir lighted wall mounted magnifying mirror.

Conclusion: which should you choose?

Lighted and non lighted wall mounted vanity mirrors each have a clear place in modern bathrooms. Lighted models excel when you need reliable, shadow-free illumination and appreciate added features such as anti-fog, dimming and adjustable colour temperature. Non lighted mirrors keep things straightforward, flexible and often more budget-friendly, especially where good lighting already exists.

If you lean towards a clean, hotel-style space and want your mirror to work as both a reflective surface and a primary light source, a lighted design like the Crownhsop LED bathroom mirror or the ChillCruiser round LED mirror is likely to suit you. If you value simplicity, decorative frames or long-term flexibility in how you light the room, a well-placed non lighted mirror combined with separate lighting and, if needed, a focused accessory like the Auxmir magnifying mirror may be the better long-term fit.

FAQ

Is a lighted wall mounted vanity mirror bright enough to replace other bathroom lights?

In many small to medium bathrooms, a good-quality lighted mirror can provide enough task lighting for the basin area, but it may not fully replace general ceiling lighting. For shaving and makeup, front-lit or bright backlit mirrors work very well. For overall room illumination, you will usually still want a ceiling light or additional fixtures.

Do lighted vanity mirrors use a lot of electricity?

Most modern lighted mirrors use efficient LEDs, so their energy consumption is relatively low. Features like dimming also help you use only as much light as you need. Over time, the running cost is typically modest, especially compared with older halogen or incandescent fittings.

Can I fit a lighted bathroom mirror myself?

You can often mount the mirror itself if you are comfortable drilling and fixing securely into the wall. However, any hard-wired electrical connection in a bathroom should be handled by a qualified professional. Plug-in or rechargeable mirrors, such as the Auxmir rechargeable magnifying mirror, avoid the need for permanent wiring.

How long do LED bathroom mirror lights last?

LEDs in bathroom mirrors are usually rated for many years of typical household use. While the exact lifespan varies by product and usage patterns, they are generally much longer-lasting than traditional bulbs. Because the LEDs are often built in, it is worth choosing a reputable mirror and installing it carefully so you get the full benefit of its expected life.