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The Best Metal Mailboxes To Have On Your Front Yard

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By Old House Journal Review Team
Last updated: 17 Jan 2023

Is it time to replace your mailbox? Are you looking for a reliable yet fashionable mailbox to adorn your front lawn? If so, you should consider installing a metal mailbox. These mailboxes are durable, strong, weather-resistant, and stylish. Plus, they come in a variety of shapes and designs so you’re sure to find the one that matches your personal style.

As for the material, metal is a durable, strong choice for a mailbox. It’s tough, attractive looking, and great for long-term use. You’ll be able to use your metal mailbox for years and even decades to come. Many of these mailboxes are weatherproof and rust-resistant, allowing them to last even longer. So, if you’re in the market for a metal mailbox, we’ve put together this comprehensive buyer’s guide to the leading metal mailboxes of 2023. Let’s take a look!

Best Overall
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ARCHITECTURAL MAILBOXES Metal Mailbox
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Most Durable
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ShoppingOnBed Metal Mailbox
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Secure Design
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Mail Boss Metal Mailbox
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Retro Design
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Gibraltar Mailboxes Metal Mailbox
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Best Wall-mounted
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KYODOLED Metal Mailbox
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Show contents
What Are the Best Metal Mailboxes in 2023?
  • 1 ARCHITECTURAL MAILBOXES Metal Mailbox
  • 2 ShoppingOnBed Metal Mailbox
  • 3 Mail Boss Metal Mailbox
  • 4 Gibraltar Mailboxes Metal Mailbox
  • 5 KYODOLED Metal Mailbox

Buying Guide: Metal Mailbox

Mailboxes should be built to last if you want to use them for years to come. This guide covers what you need to know about metal mailboxes and how to choose one for your home.

Why Metal Is Great for Mailboxes

Metal is a very sturdy material that’s been around for many, many centuries. It can be used in many fields and is malleable when hot but can be molded into durable solid shapes when cooled. Metal is a great choice in particular for mailboxes for the following reasons:

It’s tough

The weather almost always has an effect on mailboxes. Over time this can cause wear and tear to the mailbox, causing it to deteriorate. Metal is a good choice because it’s a lot stronger than other materials and can handle wind, rain, and UV exposure fairly easily. Plus, you don’t need to clean or maintain the material too often.

Rust is the main drawback that prevents metal from being the perfect material. Not all metal rusts, but many mailboxes use materials that do. Eventually, your sturdy metal box will be difficult to open and dirty to look at. There are solutions to this, of course. You could purchase a mailbox made from a metal that doesn’t corrode, such as aluminum. You could also apply a coating that prevents rust. But as long as your mailbox is made out of metal, expect it to lose its color and shape over time.

It’s more secure

Security is a very important feature when it comes to mailboxes. Many people steal letters and packages in the hopes of finding something of value. This can be a problem if you’re expecting to receive important letters or items in the mail. Some mailboxes come with built-in security and anti-theft mechanisms, but these don’t mean much if you can simply break the mailbox.

With metal mailboxes, breaking a mailbox is much more difficult. Even simply prying the mailbox open can be a challenge. There are even mailboxes designed to handle such forced entries.

It looks more attractive

In an age where plastic is present in just about everything, metal is seen as the more luxurious alternative. This is the case with many products across various industries, mailboxes included. Metal mailboxes give off a premium feeling and look that ties your front yard together. 

Things To Consider When Buying a Metal Mailbox

Color

Metal mailboxes are available in a variety of colors. Some of the colors are fairly plain such as black or white whereas others are more pronounced like red, green, or blue. Different colors can suit different homes, so you’ll want to pick a mailbox in a color that suits your home’s overall style. 

Security 

Some mailboxes have built-in security mechanisms that make it difficult for people to snoop in and steal your items. These features are great to have if you’re worried about theft, and while they may come at a premium they’re well worth the extra cost if it means your items stay safe.

What Are the Types of Metal Mailboxes?

Classic mailbox

A classic mailbox features a single arched wall. This mailbox design was commonly used throughout the 20th century. While it’s not seen nearly as often today, many homeowners still prefer this classic look.

Square mailbox

This type of mailbox emphasizes the box part of the mailbox. It’s square in shape and usually comes with extra security features that make it difficult to pry open. Square mailboxes don’t look particularly stylish, but they offer more space for small packages that have odd dimensions.

Wall-mount mailbox

Wall-mount mailboxes are mounted on the wall of your house. If you don’t have a lot of space for a dedicated mailbox in your front yard, or if you don’t have a front yard at all, then a wall-mount mailbox can be a decent option.

What Are the Best Metal Mailboxes in 2023?

1

ARCHITECTURAL MAILBOXES Metal Mailbox

– Best Overall
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With a name like ARCHITECTURAL MAILBOXES, you know you’re in for a treat. This metal mailbox comes in a medium-size that’s great for most homes. It provides enough room for all sorts of letters and small package deliveries. Coming in a variety of colors, including orange, gray, white, red, blue, and pewter, you’re sure to find one that matches your home’s aesthetics. Plus, the design is very reminiscent of a classic mailbox, which is perfect for those who are into retro or nostalgic vibes. We’ve chosen this mailbox as the best overall pick for its durability, style, and impressive number of color options.

Pros
  • Durable design and build
  • Classic retro look
  • A variety of colors to choose from
Cons
  • Looks out of place in modern neighborhoods
2

ShoppingOnBed Metal Mailbox

– Most Durable
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The ShoppingOnBed Metal Mailbox features a classic design and comes in a range of neutral tones and finishes. Featuring ample screws to give it extra durability, this mailbox has a sturdy galvanized steel frame and can handle all sorts of weather conditions with ease. With a flap-style opening that makes retrieving letters and packages a breeze, this mailbox is sure to be a win-win with your mail carrier. This metal mailbox even has the iconic mail indicator that you can use to indicate outgoing items when necessary. While you may need to do a bit of assembly, once it’s done this metal mailbox is sure to be a solid, long-lasting product.

Pros
  • Construction is durable and sturdy
  • Comes in multiple sizes and colors
  • Includes a red mail indicator
Cons
  • Requires a bit of assembly
3

Mail Boss Metal Mailbox

– Secure Design
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With more and more people snooping into the mail of others these days, it’s never a bad idea to upgrade your mailbox with added security. This metal mailbox by Mail Boss is the perfect way to safely keep your packages and store them for you to retrieve later on. The design is approved by USPS and features a lockbox-type mechanism that requires you to open it to access the contents. While the mail carrier can easily deliver mail, you’ll need a key to actually take the mail out. This metal mailbox even has a patented anti-pry mechanism that prevents would-be thieves from forcibly opening the mailbox.

Pros
  • Securely stores items inside
  • Features a lock to prevent access
  • Includes an anti-pry mechanism
Cons
  • Not the most attractive mailbox
4

Gibraltar Mailboxes Metal Mailbox

– Retro Design
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The single-wall mailbox is a very unique, iconic design, but many brands have put a modern spin on the design to keep up with the times. This is not the case with the Gibraltar Mailboxes Metal Mailbox. The aluminum-based box features a retro, classic look that makes it feel like it came from a previous century. The embossed features are also a nice touch. This metal mailbox comes in two attractive colors — black and white — and is a decent, sturdy mailbox that’s worth investing in if you prefer a more traditional style. Made of rust-proof aluminum, you can rest assured that this metal mailbox can weather any storm.

Pros
  • Unique door design keeps rain out
  • Made of rust-proof aluminum
  • 60% thicker than most mailboxes
Cons
  • Only two colors to choose from
5

KYODOLED Metal Mailbox

– Best Wall-mounted
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Some people may not have the space to install a mailbox in their front yard. Instead, they need another way to receive mail. This wall-mounted metal mailbox by KYODOLED is a great alternative. This metal mailbox is available in five colors, making it the perfect choice for those who want to match the mailbox to their home’s color scheme. While the design of the mailbox is rather plain, it fits in with a variety of home aesthetics. The painted finish on the mailbox prevents rust, which keeps the box in good condition for much longer. A more modern alternative to the classic mailbox, this is a great choice for anyone who lacks the space for a dedicated mailbox.

Pros
  • Features a rust-resistant finish
  • Modern and minimalist design
  • Multiple colors to pick from
Cons
  • Product is fairly low-quality

People Also Asked

Q: Are metal mailboxes durable?

A: Metal mailboxes are thick and sturdy, with some even featuring anti-theft measures for secure mail storage.

Q: Is it legal to put non-USPS items in my mailbox?

A: With the exception of outgoing mail, it’s generally illegal to put anything inside a mailbox if you aren’t an authorized Postal Service employee.  

Q: How often should I clean my mailbox?

A: It’s best to clean your mailbox regularly. We recommend cleaning your mailbox at least once a month. 

Exterior Design Outdoors
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By Old House Journal Review Team
The Old House Journal Review Team’s product reviews and in-depth guides are here to help you restore, repair, update, and decorate your home. The content is created by The Old House Journal Review Team. The Old House Journal editorial staff is not involved. Old House Journal is reader-supported: When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
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