Best Outside Mount Blackout Blinds for Better Light Control
The best outside mount blackout blinds extend beyond the window frame to help reduce light entering around the edges. For sizing guidance, the LazBlinds cellular shade recommends a width 1–4 inches wider than the window, while AOSKY advises making its 23-inch roller shade 4 inches wider than the window for outside mounting. The picks below include cordless rollers, cellular shades, and a model with a valance, so you can compare light control, construction, and installation needs.
| Product | Best For | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|
| AOSKY 23-inch Roller Shade | Narrower windows | Outside-mount sizing guidance |
| LazBlinds Cellular Shade | Doors and no-drill installation | Adjustable length and mounting options |
| SUNOFF Roller Shade | Top-edge light control | Valance and blackout fabric |
| AOSKY 34-inch Roller Shade | Windows suited to a 34-inch shade | Free-stop cordless operation |
| MYshade Cellular Shade | Bedrooms and nurseries | Honeycomb insulation |
AOSKY 23-Inch Cordless Roller Shade
Best for: Narrower windows where a 23-inch shade can provide enough coverage. This AOSKY roller shade is 23 inches wide and 72 inches high, with fabric listed as 22 inches wide. Its sizing guidance says an outside-mount shade should be 4 inches wider than the window, making measurement especially important.
The polyester fabric has a thermal-insulated coating and is described as blocking sunlight and UV rays. Its cordless, spring-loaded mechanism can stop at different heights. Choose this model if you want a simple roller design and need explicit outside-mount sizing advice.
Consider: The fabric is 1 inch narrower than the overall shade, so the fabric width—not just the listed shade size—matters when estimating edge coverage.
LazBlinds No-Drill Cellular Shade
Best for: Doors or renters who want multiple installation approaches. This 25-by-40-inch cordless cellular shade has an adjustable length from 0 to 40 inches. For outside mounting, the listed guidance recommends choosing a shade 1–4 inches wider than the actual window for better light blocking.
A silver-plated layer inside the cells is intended to block sunlight and UV rays. The product includes two sets of mounting accessories and describes installation with foam glue or brackets and screws. Its cordless lift avoids dangling cords, which may suit homes with children or pets.
Consider: The listing notes that light gaps may occur. Check the window measurements and mounting surface before choosing the no-drill method.
SUNOFF Cordless Blackout Roller Shade
Best for: Buyers who want a roller shade with a finished top. The 34-by-72-inch SUNOFF model has blackout fabric with a thermal-insulation coating, a cordless free-stop system, and a matching aluminum-alloy valance. The listing says the valance conceals the roller mechanism and is designed to block light from the top.
The free-stop system lets you set the shade at different heights without a traditional cord or chain. This makes it a useful option when comparing straightforward roller shades with models that include more top-edge coverage.
Consider: The provided product details do not specify an outside-mount width allowance. Measure the window and confirm the shade’s overall width before ordering.
AOSKY 34-Inch Cordless Roller Shade
Best for: Windows that suit a 34-inch-wide, 72-inch-high shade and buyers who value simple height adjustment. The AOSKY roller shade uses a free-stop system, so it can be set at a preferred height without a chain. Its cordless design is also described as suitable for homes with children and pets.
The fabric includes a heat-insulation coating and is intended to provide light blocking, UV protection, and thermal insulation. Choose this option if you prefer a basic roller format over the pleated structure of cellular shades.
Consider: This model’s supplied features do not state a specific outside-mount sizing allowance. Check the window width and product dimensions to avoid ordering a shade that leaves excessive side gaps.
MYshade Cordless Cellular Blackout Shade
Best for: Bedrooms, nurseries, and rooms where insulation is a priority. This 34-by-72-inch shade has 1.5-inch honeycomb cells that the manufacturer says trap air to help reduce heat transfer and soften outside noise. Its cordless lift can stop at different positions.
The cellular construction makes this a different choice from a flat roller shade: it adds a structured layer while providing blackout coverage and privacy. Consider it if you want a cordless shade with stated thermal and noise-reduction features.
Consider: The provided details do not give an outside-mount width allowance. Measure for adequate overlap beyond the frame before selecting this size.
Buying Guide
How wide should outside mount blackout blinds be?
Measure the window opening, then compare that measurement with the manufacturer’s overlap instructions. LazBlinds recommends a shade 1–4 inches wider than the window. AOSKY’s 23-inch model advises adding 4 inches to the window width. Wider coverage can help reduce side light gaps, but confirm the available wall or trim space first.
Should you choose roller or cellular blinds?
Roller shades have a simple flat-fabric design and are easy to compare by overall width and height. Cellular shades use honeycomb construction; the MYshade listing highlights insulation and noise reduction, while LazBlinds offers an adjustable length. Choose based on the features you need and the exact mounting dimensions.
Does blackout fabric eliminate all light?
Blackout material can block light through the shade itself, but gaps around the sides or top may still let light through. Outside mounting can extend coverage beyond the frame. Check fabric width, overall shade width, and any valance or overlap details before buying.
Are cordless blackout blinds a good choice for families?
Each product described here uses a cordless design. The listings present cordless operation as avoiding dangling cords and being suitable for homes with children or pets. Follow the included installation and operating instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an outside mount blind?
An outside mount blind is installed on the wall or trim outside the window opening rather than inside the frame. It can cover more of the surrounding area when sized with sufficient overlap.
Are these products all cordless?
Yes. The five selected products are described as cordless, with roller or cellular lift mechanisms.
Which option includes no-drill installation accessories?
The LazBlinds cellular shade listing describes foam-glue installation and brackets-and-screws accessories. Check that the chosen method suits the installation surface.
What should I measure before ordering?
Measure the window width and height, available wall or trim space, and the intended mounting area. Compare those measurements with the shade’s overall dimensions and stated outside-mount guidance.