Lighted makeup best of best vanity mirror usually come with a couple of different features you need to consider. Here are the features you're most likely to come across, along with some information about each feature that'll help you decide on the right mirror for you.
Magnification of Mirrors
If you look at products online, you'll often see that there's a feature that's listed as "1x/5x/10x" or something like that. They're usually talking about the magnification of the mirror. A 1x mirror is what you're used to seeing---a mirror that reflects your image at 1x. A 3x mirror will magnify your image three times, a 5x will magnify your image five times, and so on.
Magnification is useful for a couple of different reasons. If you're applying makeup that requires a steady hand and some precision (such as eyeliner), having a close-up of what you're doing can be very helpful. If you apply foundation or concealer, a magnifying mirror can show you how the colors meld together. And if you're plucking your eyebrows, magnification can be REALLY helpful so you don't blind yourself.
There are some situations where you can have TOO MUCH magnification, though. At a certain magnification, your face can look distorted and out-of-focus, and you'll need to get very, very close to the mirror in order to see yourself at all.
So, what's the right magnification for you? It actually depends on what kind of mirror you're looking at. Here's how it plays out:
Every mirror should come with 1x magnification. You'll need that as a baseline, so don't buy a mirror that doesn't have 1x magnification (note: most mirrors have 1x magnification, but always check just to be sure).
For a table top mirror or desktop mirror, 3x to 5x magnification is usually enough. Some people appreciate 7x and 8x, but many say 10x for a table top mirror is a little bit too much for a desktop mirror. As with all things, though, it's a matter of personal preference.
Because you can bring wall-mounted mirrors and travel mirrors very, very close to your face, those mirrors tend to go to 10x magnification and beyond, and that's a great feature of those types of mirrors.
We'll talk more about magnification in each of the product reviews below.
Regular Light Bulbs vs. LED Lights
Lighting is a major consideration when it comes to choosing a makeup mirror. Because most bedrooms and bathrooms have a yellow-ish light---one that makes makeup application challenging---a makeup mirror usually has a lighting scheme that mimics natural sunlight. Some makeup mirrors even have multiple lighting schemes and mimic indoor light, sunlight, evening light, and so on. Those are kind of rare, and most mirrors---even the high-end ones---product one kind of light, which is usually a bluish white light.
So, makeup mirrors usually come with two different kinds of lights: regular light bulbs (like the kind you probably have around the house), and LED lights, which are super-bright and last forever (and are environmentally friendly, which is always a plus). LED lights are preferable, because they last forever, and never need to be replaced. However, if you find a mirror that you like and it has regular lights, that's fine, too.
Batteries vs. Plug-in Mirrors
This, too, is a matter of personal choice. Mirrors with batteries are easier to move around, but you need to replace (or recharge) the batteries every so often; plug-in mirrors clutter up a room a little bit because of the cord that goes to the electrical outlet, but you never need to worry about them running out of juice. Again, a totally personal choice, and one that doesn't really affect the quality of the mirror, but something to keep in mind as you look at different models.
High-Tech
Gotofine LED Lighted Best Vanity Mirror/Natural Bright Light Makeup Mirror ($35)
This 4-star–rated LED makeup mirror is designed to closely resemble natural light, emitting a soft yet bright glow similar to that of sunlight. While this portable mirror also features magnification up to 10 times, Amazon reviewers seem to love this mirror for its nice glow.
Vanity-Approved
Zadro 1x/10x Dimmable Touch LED Lighted Makeup Mirror With Magnification ($120)
If a mirror is going to be sitting on your vanity, you likely want it to be both pretty and effective, right? Not only is Zadro's mirror easy on the eyes, but it also features dimmable LED lighting and both 1- and 10-times magnification, making it easy to both apply makeup and tweeze your brows. (I should know—this is a personal favorite of mine.)
User-Friendly
Sanheshun 7X Magnifying Lighted Travel Makeup Mirror ($22)
While this makeup mirror might be the tiniest of the bunch, it is quite powerful. This six-inch, battery-operated mirror illuminates with natural white LED light, perfect for "tweezing eyebrows or anything of that nature," and it also comes with a dimming feature that "helps with making sure your makeup will look good when going out," says Amazon reviewer Chrissy.
Luxurious
Simplehuman Sensor Mirror Pro Wide-View, 1x Magnification ($400)
The next best thing to natural light is this rechargeable tru-lux LED light system mirror that simulates natural lighting for correct color-swatching and makeup application day after day. While it does cost a pretty penny, one Amazon customer claims it's worth it, saying, "the magnification and lighting are unparalleled in comparison to other mirrors."
Everyday Option
Simplehuman Sensor Makeup Mirror, 6.5", 7x Magnification ($160)
Not ready to splurge $400 on a makeup mirror? This round mirror by simple human uses the same LED tru-lux light system as the Simplehuman Pro Wide-View mirror—which means that this 6.5-inch version simulates natural light just as well. However, it doesn't feature side panels for all over angle coverage.
Euph, Lighted Best Vanity Mirror
The 18pcs LED lighted mirror from Euph comes with the decent warm lighting that is free of glare and protects your eyes from too much lighting.
People love its simplicity that makes installation easy and quality illumination even in dark areas. It boasts of 10X magnification for improved application and features 3 adjustable lighting: mixed, warm and cold light to match your preference.
The LEDs mirror is easy to operate using only simple ON/OFF switch button and the touch screen function. It is powered by 4x AA batteries (not included) or USB cabled.
NANAMI, LED Lighted Vanity Wall Mount Mirror
If you desire quality lighting Best Vanity Mirror with space saving, then the NANAMI LED lighted Best Vanity Mirror should be a good option. The well-styled oval mirror will look good in your bedroom and bathroom.
It comes with 2 lighting modes (high, low) for selecting the preferred lighting by using touch sensor button. To save power, the mirror automatically turns off after 15 minutes ensuring the built-in 4000mAH lithium battery serves you for a long time. A single of the battery can last up to 5 days. The installation is easy and quick using only 1 screw (not included).
Jerdon, 8-Inch Lighted Wall Mount Makeup Mirror
This wall-mounted Best Vanity Mirror by Jerdon is ideal for the bathroom as with its attractive bronze finish that protects against moisture and condensation.
The 2-sided circular mirror features 1x and 5x magnification options to make sure you got the best makeup. An on/off rotary knob on the oval base allows you to activate the halo lighting around the perimeter of the mirror.
It is relatively light and comes with a 14-inch extension from the wall and the 360-degree swivel mechanism for smooth rotation to any angle. The bronze finish of the mirror brings out a modern-contemporary look that suits different décors.
Magnification of Mirrors
If you look at products online, you'll often see that there's a feature that's listed as "1x/5x/10x" or something like that. They're usually talking about the magnification of the mirror. A 1x mirror is what you're used to seeing---a mirror that reflects your image at 1x. A 3x mirror will magnify your image three times, a 5x will magnify your image five times, and so on.
Magnification is useful for a couple of different reasons. If you're applying makeup that requires a steady hand and some precision (such as eyeliner), having a close-up of what you're doing can be very helpful. If you apply foundation or concealer, a magnifying mirror can show you how the colors meld together. And if you're plucking your eyebrows, magnification can be REALLY helpful so you don't blind yourself.
There are some situations where you can have TOO MUCH magnification, though. At a certain magnification, your face can look distorted and out-of-focus, and you'll need to get very, very close to the mirror in order to see yourself at all.
So, what's the right magnification for you? It actually depends on what kind of mirror you're looking at. Here's how it plays out:
Every mirror should come with 1x magnification. You'll need that as a baseline, so don't buy a mirror that doesn't have 1x magnification (note: most mirrors have 1x magnification, but always check just to be sure).
For a table top mirror or desktop mirror, 3x to 5x magnification is usually enough. Some people appreciate 7x and 8x, but many say 10x for a table top mirror is a little bit too much for a desktop mirror. As with all things, though, it's a matter of personal preference.
Because you can bring wall-mounted mirrors and travel mirrors very, very close to your face, those mirrors tend to go to 10x magnification and beyond, and that's a great feature of those types of mirrors.
We'll talk more about magnification in each of the product reviews below.
Regular Light Bulbs vs. LED Lights
Lighting is a major consideration when it comes to choosing a makeup mirror. Because most bedrooms and bathrooms have a yellow-ish light---one that makes makeup application challenging---a makeup mirror usually has a lighting scheme that mimics natural sunlight. Some makeup mirrors even have multiple lighting schemes and mimic indoor light, sunlight, evening light, and so on. Those are kind of rare, and most mirrors---even the high-end ones---product one kind of light, which is usually a bluish white light.
So, makeup mirrors usually come with two different kinds of lights: regular light bulbs (like the kind you probably have around the house), and LED lights, which are super-bright and last forever (and are environmentally friendly, which is always a plus). LED lights are preferable, because they last forever, and never need to be replaced. However, if you find a mirror that you like and it has regular lights, that's fine, too.
Batteries vs. Plug-in Mirrors
This, too, is a matter of personal choice. Mirrors with batteries are easier to move around, but you need to replace (or recharge) the batteries every so often; plug-in mirrors clutter up a room a little bit because of the cord that goes to the electrical outlet, but you never need to worry about them running out of juice. Again, a totally personal choice, and one that doesn't really affect the quality of the mirror, but something to keep in mind as you look at different models.
High-Tech
Gotofine LED Lighted Best Vanity Mirror/Natural Bright Light Makeup Mirror ($35)
This 4-star–rated LED makeup mirror is designed to closely resemble natural light, emitting a soft yet bright glow similar to that of sunlight. While this portable mirror also features magnification up to 10 times, Amazon reviewers seem to love this mirror for its nice glow.
Vanity-Approved
Zadro 1x/10x Dimmable Touch LED Lighted Makeup Mirror With Magnification ($120)
If a mirror is going to be sitting on your vanity, you likely want it to be both pretty and effective, right? Not only is Zadro's mirror easy on the eyes, but it also features dimmable LED lighting and both 1- and 10-times magnification, making it easy to both apply makeup and tweeze your brows. (I should know—this is a personal favorite of mine.)
User-Friendly
Sanheshun 7X Magnifying Lighted Travel Makeup Mirror ($22)
While this makeup mirror might be the tiniest of the bunch, it is quite powerful. This six-inch, battery-operated mirror illuminates with natural white LED light, perfect for "tweezing eyebrows or anything of that nature," and it also comes with a dimming feature that "helps with making sure your makeup will look good when going out," says Amazon reviewer Chrissy.
Luxurious
Simplehuman Sensor Mirror Pro Wide-View, 1x Magnification ($400)
The next best thing to natural light is this rechargeable tru-lux LED light system mirror that simulates natural lighting for correct color-swatching and makeup application day after day. While it does cost a pretty penny, one Amazon customer claims it's worth it, saying, "the magnification and lighting are unparalleled in comparison to other mirrors."
Everyday Option
Simplehuman Sensor Makeup Mirror, 6.5", 7x Magnification ($160)
Not ready to splurge $400 on a makeup mirror? This round mirror by simple human uses the same LED tru-lux light system as the Simplehuman Pro Wide-View mirror—which means that this 6.5-inch version simulates natural light just as well. However, it doesn't feature side panels for all over angle coverage.
Euph, Lighted Best Vanity Mirror
The 18pcs LED lighted mirror from Euph comes with the decent warm lighting that is free of glare and protects your eyes from too much lighting.
People love its simplicity that makes installation easy and quality illumination even in dark areas. It boasts of 10X magnification for improved application and features 3 adjustable lighting: mixed, warm and cold light to match your preference.
The LEDs mirror is easy to operate using only simple ON/OFF switch button and the touch screen function. It is powered by 4x AA batteries (not included) or USB cabled.
NANAMI, LED Lighted Vanity Wall Mount Mirror
If you desire quality lighting Best Vanity Mirror with space saving, then the NANAMI LED lighted Best Vanity Mirror should be a good option. The well-styled oval mirror will look good in your bedroom and bathroom.
It comes with 2 lighting modes (high, low) for selecting the preferred lighting by using touch sensor button. To save power, the mirror automatically turns off after 15 minutes ensuring the built-in 4000mAH lithium battery serves you for a long time. A single of the battery can last up to 5 days. The installation is easy and quick using only 1 screw (not included).
Jerdon, 8-Inch Lighted Wall Mount Makeup Mirror
This wall-mounted Best Vanity Mirror by Jerdon is ideal for the bathroom as with its attractive bronze finish that protects against moisture and condensation.
The 2-sided circular mirror features 1x and 5x magnification options to make sure you got the best makeup. An on/off rotary knob on the oval base allows you to activate the halo lighting around the perimeter of the mirror.
It is relatively light and comes with a 14-inch extension from the wall and the 360-degree swivel mechanism for smooth rotation to any angle. The bronze finish of the mirror brings out a modern-contemporary look that suits different décors.
