Displaying photos around your home is the best way to remind yourself of life’s greatest memories, whether it’s fun times with family, friends, and pets or landscape photos from your favorite vacations. The right picture frame protects your photo while also showcasing your memories in a stylish way.
“Frames not only protect the artwork or photograph from knocks, scratches, ultraviolet light, and dust, they’re also a guide, telling the viewers where to look as the frame often is the first thing our eyes notice before the actual subject of the image,” says wedding and portrait photographer Kari Bjorn.
To find the best picture frames, we researched top-rated options and various styles, considering them based on their size, material, and shape.We also spoke with Bjorn for additional tips and insight on what to look for when shopping for picture frames.
What We Researched
We evaluated 15 picture frames for their size, material, and shape.
Best Overall
upsimples Picture Frame
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Usimples-Picture-Frame-a1a6dcf658944f079af36ee2fc217491.jpg)
Amazon
If you’re looking for simple yet sturdy frames to fill your home with, we recommend the Usimples Picture Frame. With 32 size options and 11 colors, this frame is great as filler for your gallery wall or as a single piece on a console table.
We love that this frame is minimal yet versatile, it can be used with and without a mat, and is sturdy and durable without feeling bulky. It’s important to note that the glazing, or the transparent barrier or window that protects the framed piece, is made of plastic and not glass. While we don’t think it’s a dealbreaker, especially given its sturdiness, it’s something to keep in mind if you prefer a more high end look.
Product Details: Size: From 4×6 inches | Material: Plastic | Shape: Rectangle
Best Budget
PEALSN Picture Frame
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/PEALSN-Picture-Frame-82384ecb4bd24c48a5a6050e471ce0a1.jpg)
Amazon
Creating a large gallery wall can take time, patience, and of course, a generous budget to get all the pieces you need. For an option that’s sturdy, easy to install, and less expensive than other frames, we recommend the Pealsn Picture Frame.
We like the swivel tabs on the mounting backplate that make it easy to switch out photos. We also like the removable mats and attached hanging hardware that allows you to choose a vertical or horizontal hanging. Although this frame doesn’t come in as many color or finish options as others, we still think these are an excellent option.
Product Details: Size: From 5×7 inches | Material: Engineered wood | Shape: Rectangle, square
Best Splurge
Aerin Piero Leather Round Frame
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Aerin-Piero-Leather-Round-Frame-02a4ebf3c8304b10a8fc2de78e13f7a4.jpg)
Aerin
The Aerin Piero Leather Round Frame is a great option if you’re looking for a thoughtful gift or a luxe addition to your space. We love the round shape that makes it perfect for portraits of children and pets. Plus, the gold accent gives it an elegant feel.
This round frame is offered in two colors: blue haze and shadow white. It’s only available in one size, though we think it’s great size for a vanity, nightstand, desk, or other small spaces in your home.
Product Details: Size: 6.1 x 6.1 x 0.9 inches | Material: Italian leather, brass hardware, suede lining | Shape: Round
Best Digital
Aeezo Wi-Fi Digital Picture Frame
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/aeezo-wifi-digital-picture-frame-e162351c5a2646c5be17dea4ec39ca55.jpg)
Amazon
Digital picture frames are an excellent option for those who have dozens of photos to display with not nearly enough room to display them. With 16 GB of memory, the AEEZO Digital Picture Frame can fit thousands of photos and even videos (up to 15 seconds) and displays them in a slideshow format.
We tested this option and liked the high definition touchscreen, easy setup, and wood-like appearance that resembles a traditional photo frame. We also loved the customizable settings and features like weather, clock, brightness, and photo captions, as well as the video playback sound. Just note that the video volume is not as loud as we would have liked it to be.
While the display is clear, the image resolution is not as sharp, particularly when viewed up close, as it is on high-end smartphones. However, it’s still great for displaying your favorite photos and admiring them from afar.
Product Details: Size: 11.46 x 8.31 x 1.3 inches | Material: Not listed | Shape: Rectangle
Best Large
Studio Décor Belmont Frame
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Studio-Decor-Belmont-Frame-cfcc33b294024bb3a440ecca6b776c87.jpg)
Amazon
If you have a poster or large format photo you want to nicely display in a frame, you need the Honey Belmont Frame by Studio Décor. Available in five large sizes, this picture frame is perfect for displaying bigger pieces in a stylish way.
We like the attached hanging hardware that works both vertically and horizontally and that it’s made of a sturdy medium density fiberboard (MDF). It’s also offered in several colors and sizes, so you can choose which works best in your space.
Since this does not come with a mat, it can also work as a floating frame if your picture is smaller than the frame. If you’re not in need of a mat, however, we think this frame is a great value and the best large picture frame for anywhere in your home.
Product Details: Size: From 8×10 inches | Material: MDF and polystyrene | Shape: Rectangle
Best Floating
Mutellstory Floating Acrylic Picture Frame
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Mutellstory-Floating-Acrylic-Picture-Frame-71ae8c298e2e4773a04fda26932f6755.jpg)
Amazon
We chose the Mutellstory Floating Acrylic Picture Frame as one of our favorite frames for its thick acrylic construction and bold neon color options. This frame is durable and can be used in either orientation, while the inner frame has a magnetic patch to keep your photo in place.
If you prefer a more minimal look, these frames may not be for you. We love the 10 different colors to choose from that can either be the focal point of a space or easily part of a colorful gallery wall. Just note that they’re only offered in one shape.
The frames can either be mounted or used as freestanding frames on a mantel, nightstand, vanity, or dresser. However you decide to use these, they’ll definitely make an eye-catching statement no matter where they are in your home.
Product Details: Size: From 4×6 inches | Material: Acrylic | Shape: Rectangle
Best Collage
Songmics Collage Picture Frame
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Songmics-Collage-Picture-Frame-13f2e9b1c5c04ab88d9a96a40c26f3f2.jpg)
Amazon
Whether you have a ton of wedding pictures to display or a bunch of memories from a recent vacation, we recommend the Songmics Collage Picture Frame. This frame fits 12 4×6 photos in a mix of vertical and horizontal orientations.
We like that the frame is made of a sturdy MDF and has a glass window to protect your photos as well. Plus, the frame is available in four finishes. While we do like that the back panels on each frame have 360-degree rotating tabs to easily change out photos, it’s important to know that the overall piece requires assembly by attaching all 12 frames together.
Product Details: Size: 24.8×24.8 inches | Material: Engineered wood | Shape: Rectangle collage
Best Oval
Victorian Frame Company Messina Oval Frame
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Victorian-Frame-Company-Messina-Oval-Frame-05355a1bbd154ec9857a07946bbdbd05.jpg)
Victorian Frame Company
Oval photo frames are perfect for displaying certain portraits, hand embroidery art, and personalized silhouettes. We love the Victorian Frame Company Messina Oval Frame for its high quality wood, hand finished frame, and customizable features.
You can choose from 19 sizes, glass window types, and backings so you can have it as a traditional frame to display a photo, or as an empty frame to showcase a wall-mounted plant or a taxidermy bug. This frame is available in a distressed bronze, rubbed black, and mocha finish.
It’s worth noting that some of the larger sizes are more expensive than other options. However, we think the quality and versatile style make it worth the splurge.
Product Details: Size: From 3.5×5 inches | Material: Wood | Shape: Oval
Best Farmhouse
Craig Frames American Barn Picture Frame
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Craig-Frames-American-Barn-Picture-Frame-84f3319ee922404995f7552948764e38.jpg)
Amazon
We recommend the Craig Frames American Barn Picture Frame for those who prefer farmhouse decor. We love the distressed barnwood-esque MDF frame that comes in six finishes and dozens of sizes so you can choose exactly which ones will fit into your home.
We also like the rigid black backing and pre-attached stamped hanging hardware that works vertically and horizontally. Just keep in mind that this option can only be wall-mounted, so it’s a great frame to consider for gallery walls.
Product Details: Size: From 4×5 inches | Material: MDF, plexiglass | Shape: Rectangle, square
Best Ornate
Anthropologie Victoria Frame
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Anthropologie-Victoria-Frame-57a09680152648ae88a124a806a89475.jpg)
Anthropologie
For those with a maximalist, vintage, Victorian, or art deco style, we think the Anthropologie Victoria Frame deserves a spot in your home. The frame features an elegant floral design with intricate vining details and we love that it looks like a keepsake or heirloom, so it also makes for a perfect gift.
This frame is available in various sizes and two colors: a darkened gold hue and a bronzed black. While these frames don’t come with any hanging hardware, we didn’t think it was a dealbreaker since these frames are better suited on a fireplace mantle or dresser.
Product Details: Size: From 4×4 inches | Material: Polyresin, glass | Shape: Rectangle, round
Best Modern
West Elm Modern Champagne Lacquer Frames
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/West-Elm-Modern-Champagne-Lacquer-Frames-47bdea9ae98347638aaa56338da9bcad.jpg)
West Elm
If you like sleek and minimal decor with a modern touch, then you’ll love the West Elm Modern Champagne Lacquer Frames. These frames feel sophisticated with their metallic finish yet versatile with their various size options.
Each one has mounting hardware included and a kickstand, so you can display them flat or as wall hangings in an orientation.
One thing to keep in mind is that the 4×6 and 5×7 frames have more of a shadow box display, while the 8×10 frame is flat. However, we do think that they all still have a uniform look when purchased as a set and also look great on their own.
Product Details: Size: From 4×6 inches | Material: Engineered wood with lacquer finish | Shape: Rectangle
Best Set
Pottery Barn Eclectic Bone Frames
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Pottery-Barn-Eclectic-Bone-Frames-298e1bd1fc5640f1b184f7eb1c72f6af.jpg)
Pottery Barn
We think the Pottery Barn Eclectic Bone Frames are the best picture frame set particularly for their different sizes, bold yet coordinating colored patterns, and handcrafted quality. Each frame is made of MDF, resin, and bone inlay that give it a polished look.
The cream and blue color scheme also complements black and white photography so you can easily create a memorable and sophisticated display of memories. While this picture frame set is definitely a splurge compared to other sets, we think their quality construction and chic color patterns are worth adding to any part of your home.
Product Details: Size: From 4×4 inches | Material: MDF, resin, bone, glass, and steel hardware | Shape: Rectangle and square
Best Scalloped
Handicrafts Home Indigo Picture Frame
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Handicrafts-Home-Indigo-Picture-Frame-0f74b18fd96e4f41a075a8506e6849bf.jpg)
Amazon
Scalloped picture frames add a unique and textural touch to your home decor while also highlighting your favorite artwork or photograph. We love the Handicrafts Home Indigo Picture Frame for its triple layered scalloped frame that comes in either natural and white, both in a checkered style.
Made of a bone inlay and pine MDF blend, this picture frame can be wall mounted or placed vertically or horizontally on a console table, desk, or nightstand using the sturdy kickstand. We like the metallic rotating paddles in the back that make it a breeze to change out photos.
Although we did wish the frame window was made of glass instead of plastic to match the elegance of the frame, we didn’t think it was a dealbreaker.
Product Details: Size: 4×6 inches | Material: MDF, bone inlay | Shape: Rectangle
Best Decorative
Rifle Paper Co Picture Frame
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/garden-party-4-6-picture-frame-df35117660724a99a9166b6282e98cd3.jpg)
Rifle Paper Co
If you want a frame that pops as much as the photograph you put in it, we recommend the Rifle Paper Co Picture Frame. With its signature colorful and floral pattern options, this frame adds a spring-inspired touch to your favorite memories.
We love the soft velvet backing, gold framing accent, and sturdy kickstand that makes it easy to display on any flat surface. Although this picture frame does not have mounting hardware, it can still be displayed on a wall using sturdy adhesive picture hanging strips.
It’s also important to keep in mind that this frame can only hold a 4×6 size photo. Still, we think its overall quality and elegant patterns make this frame more than worth it.
Product Details: Size: 4×6 inches | Material: Zinc alloy, glass, and velvet backing | Shape: Rectangle
The Bottom Line
Overall, our favorite photo frame is the Usimples Picture Frame. We like that it’s offered in various sizes and colors, and think the minimal style would work well in a variety of homes.
What to Know About Picture Frames Before Shopping
Size
Depending on your space and where you plan to place the frame, it may be important for you to consider size when choosing a picture frame. For Bjorn, however, playing around with size can be a benefit by exploring depth and dimension.
“Frame size can possibly be something to experiment with,” he says. “A small 5×7-inch matted image in a much larger 12×16-inch frame signifies more importance to the viewer than a more traditional 8×10-inch matted frame. It tells the viewer to take a closer look.”
Material
Picture frames can come in a variety of materials, like plastic, wood, resin, and bone inlay. Choosing the right one can depend on a few factors such as budget, preference, and whether you want to wall mount it. According to Bjorn, the material of the frame and glazing, whether it’s plastic or glass, is important to consider in relation to how important the artwork is to you.
“A poster size reprint of a famous image might not be something you’d want to preserve for life so a plastic poster frame is probably ideal,” he says. “On the opposite end, you should consider investing in more durable materials like hardwood frames and UV-protective glass for artworks you deem worthy of preserving. These offer a better viewing experience as they reflect much less than regular glass while protecting the artwork from fading when exposed to sunlight.”
Additionally, certain materials are better suited for colors, patterns, and textures. Wood can feel more rustic and have hand carved details while acrylic is transparent, but can come in bright neon colors.
Shape
Although a rectangle is the standard shape for most picture frames, you can certainly find them in various shapes including oval and arch. Bjorn says that some photos or artwork are better suited for specific shapes or orientations.
“A wide angle landscape photo will work best in a horizontal rectangular frame as it allows the viewer to enter the image from both sides and to read it from either left to right or vice versa, depending on the composition,” he says. “A portrait of a person has many options for frame shapes such as a vertical rectangle for a full-body portrait or square frame for a closer portrait. Circle and oval frames can also work for closer portraits of children.”
Your Questions, Answered
How much can I expect to spend on a picture frame?
Picture frames vary in price, and their cost is usually dictated by the type of frame and glazing material, extra detailing, and overall size. It’s common to find good quality, sturdy frames in the mid range from $15 to $50, but Bjorn says the range itself can be quite wide.
“Small plastic frames with acrylic glazing as opposed to glass tend to cost very little, from under $10 for a 4×6 frame,” he says. “On the opposite end, a larger, custom size ornate frame made from hardwood like teak with museum grade glass can cost upwards of $1,000.”
Do all picture frames need matting?
Matting is an extra piece of thick paper that acts as a border around your photo, and while it can come in many colors, it’s most commonly found in white. Many frames include a mat that can be removed, but as Bjorn explains, not all photos require it and some frames may not even come with it.
“Poster frames tend to come without matting, as do most small frames that are meant to stand and not be hung on a wall,” he says. “Matting does two things, it further protects the artwork as it is not pushed up against the glass or acrylic glazing. It also enhances the viewing experience and gives more weight to the image.”
Can all picture frames be hung up?
Even if you choose a photo frame without hanging hardware on the backing, Bjorn says you can still hang it up with solutions like adhesive strips. Otherwise, you will need nails, a hammer, and a stud finder to hang a picture frame on the wall.
“With d-rings or sawtooth hangers, they will sit on the nail in the wall. Larger and heavier frames are typically hung with a wire that is attached to d-rings on both sides of the frame,” he says. “The heavier the frame, the more important it is to nail the nail or picture hanger into a stud in your wall. This method divides the weight of the frame to two vertical points of the frame as opposed to a single horizontal point. If you ever see a frame with the top side slightly bulged, it means it is hung with one point and the frame is likely too heavy.”
Who We Are
L. Daniela Alvarez is a contributing writer for Better Homes & Gardens with three years of experience specifically writing lifestyle content and product reviews for a variety of publications. For this article, she spent several hours researching the best picture frames and reading customer reviews. She also consulted wedding and portrait photographer Kari Bjorn.
link