Aseneat Rain Chain Bird Cage Set
- You can choose between a simpler cup or more ornate wrought iron design to match your style.
You can choose between a simpler cup or more ornate wrought iron design to match your style.
- The chain and clips are weaker and may not stand up to high winds.
The chain and clips are weaker and may not stand up to high winds.
The Aseneat Rain Chain offers a dozen different designs and colors (including links and cups), making it the best rain chain if you’re looking for a statement piece. Made from rust-resistant wrought iron, the 8.5-foot rain chain featuring an ornate iron bird cage design is our favorite. Each of the pieces clip together, so it’s easy to adjust if you’d like less length.
And it’s expert-approved: “I have been consistently impressed by this particular rain chain. It offers a wide variety of designs to choose from and is also quite affordable,” Kantor says. An underrated benefit of a rain chain like this one is the soothing sound the raindrops make when they trickle down (as opposed to listening to the rain slosh through your downspout).
The rain chain weighs 3 pounds and comes with a sturdy hook and stake to anchor it into the ground. You can choose from a variety of colors including gold, blue, cyan, and green. Several users do note that while the cups and links are wrought iron, the chain and clips appear to be made of a weaker metal, and may not be ideal for windy climates.
Product Details: Material: Wrought Iron | Length: 8.5 inches
GreenThings Pure Copper Rain Chain
- The angled cups not only look great, but offer increased protection against splashing.
The angled cups not only look great, but offer increased protection against splashing.
- If you opt for non-patinated copper, keep in mind that it will lose its brightness over time.
If you opt for non-patinated copper, keep in mind that it will lose its brightness over time.
The GreenThings Pure Copper Rain chain is one of the best rain chains if you plan on collecting rainwater in a barrel or directing the flow to a nearby plant bed. The rain chain is about 8 feet long and consists of eleven cups. Although it comes in only one size, the length is adjustable—you can make it shorter by taking out the pins on the sides of the cups, or longer by adding a second chain. There is also a downspout gutter attachment and a hook, so you can easily hang it without purchasing additional equipment.
The cups are slanted, which is not only for aesthetics, but also offers increased protection against water splashing. “This is the rain chain that I personally use at my own home. It offers a great balance of affordability, durability, and aesthetic appeal,” Kantor says.
The rain chain is available in three finishes: copper, copper exterior and a patinated interior, or a fully patinated finish. Copper has the advantage of being rust-proof, but exposure to the elements will cause it to change color over time if you opt for a non-patinated option. Overall, if you are looking for an eye-catching rain chain, we highly recommend this model.
Product Details: Material: Copper | Length: 8 feet
Rain Chains Direct Square Link Rain Chain
- This clean-lined rain chain lends a modern look to your outdoor space.
This clean-lined rain chain lends a modern look to your outdoor space.
- The cups are 1.25 inches wide, which is narrower than other options on our list.
The cups are 1.25 inches wide, which is narrower than other options on our list.
If your home has a contemporary exterior, you need a rain chain that will channel the same aesthetic. This rectangular rain chain features clean lines and a modern look with your choice of three finishes: black, gray, and copper.
The gray and black finishes are made of power-coated aluminum for a lightweight, rust-resistant construction. The copper finish is 100% copper, which will patina over time for a more rustic look.
The rain chain comes in a standard 8.5-foot length as well as a 3-foot extension option, so you can get the exact height you need. A v-hook is included, which allows you to install the rain chain in a standard-sized gutter hole, but you can purchase the brand's gutter installer separately for a more polished look. A ground anchor is also available for stabilizing the rain chain in windy conditions.
This rain chain features cups that are 1.25 inches wide at the top and bottom, which is narrower than the cups of other rain chains on our list. This may cause water to spray out during particularly heavy rainstorms.
Product Details: Material: Aluminum or copper, depending on finish choice | Length: 3 feet and 8.5 feet
Nutshell Stores Fancy Koi Rain Chain
- The large cups with impressive capacity make it easier to collect rainwater for later use, and minimize splashing.
The large cups with impressive capacity make it easier to collect rainwater for later use, and minimize splashing.
- You have to buy a gutter adapter separately for it to work.
You have to buy a gutter adapter separately for it to work.
If you want a fancy rain chain with a capital F, this koi-shaped pick will be the pick for you. Instead of traditional cups, it features large copper koi fish to catch the water, with intricate fin and scale embellishments. Plus, it’s made out of pure copper which turns into a richer tone over time.
This is the best option for your home if you intend to collect water to use in your garden and around your home—it scored a 4 out of 5 on Nutshell’s Waterflow Index, a scale that measures a rain chain’s capacity. Each fish cup is 9 inches long, with a 4-inch opening at the top. This means that not only will you experience minimal splashing because the cups collect more water, but you’ll be able reuse it more easily as well.
The length is impressively adjustable, ranging from 8 to 20 feet. You can pay extra to have the chain extended further. “If you are seeking a more luxurious rain chain, this is the ideal choice for you,” Kantor says. Although it comes with a v-hook to install it, you’ll also need an adaptor accessory for your gutter, which is sold separately.
Product Details: Material: Copper | Length: 8 to 20 feet
Topadorn 72-inch Metal Decorative Lotus Rain Chain Bell Rain Chain
- This affordable pick is weather and corrosion resistant despite being cheaper than other options.
This affordable pick is weather and corrosion resistant despite being cheaper than other options.
- The shorter length is best-suited to single-story houses.
The shorter length is best-suited to single-story houses.
Why not grab a rain chain that’s functional, fashionable, and affordable? This pick from Topadorn checks all three factors. It is budget-friendly, with eight lotus flower-shaped cups. At only 6 feet long, it gives you a little less length compared to others on the list. Still, it should be sufficient for a single-story house.
Each flower has a 2.6-inch opening, so it can efficiently catch some water, though not as much as the options with larger cups. While the metal may not be as durable as copper, it’s still weather-resistant and won’t corrode easily.
The downside is that it’s lightweight, meaning it’s probably not the best option for stormier climates. Still, it should be totally sufficient for moderate rain storms. And the biggest upside is that, since it’s so affordable, you can likely buy several for your home and still stay within budget.
Product Details: Material: Metal | Length: 6 feet
Nutshell Stores Double Loops Rain Chain
- Thick, interlocking loops add weight and decrease splashing experienced with most link-style chains.
Thick, interlocking loops add weight and decrease splashing experienced with most link-style chains.
- Prices fluctuate depending on the material you choose.
Prices fluctuate depending on the material you choose.
This is the ideal pick if you live in a windy climate where other options may be too light. “Although this rain chain deviates from the typical cup-style design, its advantage lies in the short length of the links and the presence of multiple links in one spot,” Kantor says. “This helps to decrease excessive splashing commonly associated with link-style rain chains.”
Each loop measures 2 inches in diameter. You can choose different lengths between 6 and 20 feet. Custom sizes are also available for an additional cost per foot. Just be aware that prices also fluctuate depending on the rain chain material, with copper and stainless steel being the most expensive.
It has 2.5 out of 5 on the Waterflow Index, which indicates more splashing than you’d get with cups, but less than most link-style chains. The rain chain is available in aluminum, black, bronze, stainless steel, and unfinished copper. As always, copper will patina over time.
Product Details: Material: Copper, Aluminum, Black, Bronze, Stainless Steel | Length: 6 to 20 feet
Nutshell Stores Origami Rain Chain
- The weighty chain can withstand heavy downpours better than more delicate options, making it a nice choice for rainy and tropical climates.
The weighty chain can withstand heavy downpours better than more delicate options, making it a nice choice for rainy and tropical climates.
- It requires more assembly than other options.
It requires more assembly than other options.
This stainless steel rain chain’s gorgeous origami-inspired design pays homage to the rain chain’s Japanese origins. “While this rain chain may not be made of the usual materials I would choose, I am particularly drawn to its unique shape,” Kantor says. “I believe it would function effectively as a rain chain while adding a delightful touch to a home without overly standing out.”
The cups measure 4 x 4.5 inches and the chain comes with a c-shaped hook that conveniently hangs from any rooftop gutter. The sturdy design can potentially withstand heavy downpours better than more delicate chains, which is especially useful if you’re living in a tropical or rainy climate. The rain chain scored a 5 out of 5 on Nutshell’s Waterflow Index scale, which means it can collect water with minimal splashing.
Keep in mind that the chain is not pre-assembled and will require a bit more work than other options. While the brand says no tools are required, it might be a good idea to keep a pair of pliers handy because there are small nuts and bolts that need to be screwed on. Besides stainless steel, there is also a powder-coated black model available, too.
Product Details: Material: Stainless Steel, Black Powder Coat | Length: 8 feet to 20 feet
Zeckos Verdigris Finish Metal Umbrellas Rain Chain with Attached Hanger
- The verdigris finish makes it look weathered straight out of the packaging.
The verdigris finish makes it look weathered straight out of the packaging.
- It’s very short and likely a better fit to hang off a shed or patio.
It’s very short and likely a better fit to hang off a shed or patio.
We like this pick from Zecko because the cute umbrella design stands out from other rain chains. Each of the ten cups is 4.5 inches in diameter and it comes in a verdigris finish, so it looks like it has been weathered over time straight out of the box.
From top to bottom, it is 53 inches (the chain alone is 4 feet) which might be a little short, even for a one-story home. That said, it’s still a fantastic option to hang from a shorter structure such as a shed, gazebo, or patio. You can also put a container at the bottom of the chain to collect water and reuse it again.
Because it’s so slim, it likely won't work well in the event of a heavy downpour. Other than that, if you’re looking for a playful design and a way to efficiently direct water flow to the ground, it could be the best option for you.
Product Details: Material: Verdigris | Length: 4.4 feet
Ancient Graffiti Lily Cup Rain Chain
- Although it comes in a standard 8-foot size, additional length is included so you can adjust the size.
Although it comes in a standard 8-foot size, additional length is included so you can adjust the size.
- The color looks more brown than copper.
The color looks more brown than copper.
If you’re searching for a rain chain with an intricate design that can efficiently drain water, this is a nice choice. It’s also excellent to have around when you want to enjoy the meditative sound of the rain filtering through its flower-shaped cups.
Although it’s 8 feet long, the length can be adjusted as needed. It also comes with a clip attachment to string it up. One negative is that, though it’s supposed to be copper plated, several users say it looks more brown. Also, the link chain is very slim, so it may not make much of a difference if you experience wet weather all the time.
Nevertheless, it’s a beautiful sight when hanging from your gutters. Even if you doubt its effectiveness against the rain, we still give it points for ornamental value. Just watch out for freezing weather—ice can weigh it down, causing it to break if it becomes too heavy.
Product Details: Material: Copper-plated metal | Length: 8 to 19 feet
Nutshell Stores Square Cups Rain Chain
- This option comes in a range of metals including copper and weathered steel.
This option comes in a range of metals including copper and weathered steel.
- You have to assemble the individual cups yourself.
You have to assemble the individual cups yourself.
The Medium Square Cups Rain Chain has a straightforward, no-frills look that suits just about any home. The rain chain is available in a wide range of materials including copper, powder-coated, and weathered steel options.
What we like the most about this rain chain is that the materials are designed to give each chain a unique look. For example, the copper rain chains come in two variations: a shiny, polished version or an aged look. The weathered steel finish is designed to rust only on the surface.
The parts don’t come pre-assembled, but you don’t need tools nor do you have to be a DIY expert to hang off the gutter. A V-shaped hook is also included with the rain chain. The brand offers custom lengths and samples for all rain chains.
Product Details: Material: Various metals | Length: 8 to 19 feet
Monarch Rain Chains Aluminum Hammered Cup Rain Chain
- This aluminum rain chain is lighter than alternatives made of different metals and can therefore be longer without risking damage to the gutter.
This aluminum rain chain is lighter than alternatives made of different metals and can therefore be longer without risking damage to the gutter.
- Anchor stakes are sold separately.
Anchor stakes are sold separately.
This aluminum rain chain from Monarch is a nice option for your home, shed, or pergola. Aluminum rain chains are generally lighter than copper, and therefore can generally be longer without damaging the gutter. Another selling point of aluminum is that it is rust-resistant and will not change color due to oxidation.
The rain chain has a matte black finish and attractive hand-hammered design. It measures 8.5 feet in length, with a 5-inch attachment included. The cups are 2.5 inches tall and the opening is 3.5 inches.
Bear in mind that only the gutter attachment comes with the rain chain—the brand sells anchoring stakes to help weigh it down, but these are sold separately.
Product Details: Material: Aluminum | Length: 8.5 feet