Outdoor lights are an important component of our house. They work as safeguards to keep us safe when we are in the yard or garden. Also, they can beautify your house at night. Everyone needs outdoor lights for safety and aesthetics.
And we are all familiar with the traditional outdoor lights that use normal electricity or battery to operate. In contrast, solar outdoor lights are powered by the sun. That is the biggest difference between the two kinds of outdoor lights.
Things to Consider When Buying Solar Outdoor Lights
Solar outdoor lights have a variety of features, also, buyers may have some questions about them, and there are four main factors you need to consider when choosing one.
Water resistance
Water resistance is a significant factor when it comes to equipment that could be exposed to the outdoors. Meanwhile, it is also important for solar-powered products. And a solar outdoor light is not an exception. Being water-resistant is even more significant for solar outdoor lights because they are closely related to your house’s safety at night.
A solar-powered outdoor light operates with power from the sunlight, which means the model has to be powered under the sky. There could be risks of bad weather like rainy days. Bad weather not only affects the solar gathering but also reduces the product’s lifespan.
A perfect solar outdoor light should be outstandingly waterproof.
Brightness modes
The brightness option is another factor that you need to take into account. It can directly affect your user experience. People buy solar outdoor lights for various reasons. For example, if you want to hold a family party in your yard, you may hope the lights are not too bright.
Also, if the lights are too bright at night, you may feel bothered when going to sleep. They can reduce the quality of sleep. On the contrary, if they are too dark, it will be inconvenient when doing something outside.
We recommend you buy solar outdoor lights with multiple brightness modes. In that case, you can choose the brightness level you need.
Automatic on/off
The automatic switch is equally important. This function can help you save effort to turn it manually.
A perfect solar outdoor light should include an automatic on/off switch. When there is sunlight, it turns off, and when the sun goes down, the light turns on automatically. At the same time, it should also come with a manual option as an alternative.
Especially for people who are always forgetting to turn off the lights, this feature is significant to avoid unnecessary energy consumption.
Solar power wattage
Charging is one of the most crucial matters among all the cared factors. You should consider the battery charging time. The charging time is directly determined by the sunlight hours and the solar power wattage.
You should consider where you are located and how many sun hours your location provides. If the sun hours are fewer than six, you should choose the lights with larger power wattage to ensure your battery charging.
Solar Outdoor Lights Frequently Asked Questions
How do solar outdoor lights work?
We all know briefly that solar outdoor lights work with solar power. But the answer is not that simple.
Specifically speaking, solar outdoor lights work with a photo-voltaic cell technology that enables them to get recharged by merely being exposed to the natural light source. Generally, solar cells or solar panels are integrated into the body of outdoor lights. And they can receive and gather sunlight. Then the model can convert the solar power into usable energy for the equipment to use.
Since only when there is sunlight, the model can be charged, you should also consider the power wattage when choosing. So the lights will receive sunlight during the daytime and turn on to work at night.
Why should I buy solar outdoor lights?
Solar outdoor lights provide plenty of benefits. And some important ones are as follows.
Like many other solar power products, solar-powered outdoor lights are environmentally friendly. They can work with power from the sun, instead of traditional electricity. So their batteries neither consume any scarce energies nor generate any toxic emissions. So they can protect the environment, meanwhile, conserve the energies.
Solar-powered outdoor lights offer users better-ensured consistent usage and protection. Once you install them in your garden or yard, they begin to work automatically. Plus, most solar outdoor lights are water-resistant, so they are durable. Therefore, they seldom need special maintenance. You just need to clean the solar panels once in a while.
Besides, they are extremely easy to install. You don’t need to plan complex wiring. Since they simply need to be exposed to the sun to get power and work for you, you can mount them wherever you need around your yard or garden. This is user-friendly.
How many kinds of such models for you choose from?
Different users have different purposes, so the manufacturers provide various options.
Pathway lights – Small lights that are placed along the pathway as a line.
Solar Lanterns – These usually have multiple brightness modes.
Security Lights – They are usually installed on walls.
Driveway Lights – They are much like the security lights to brighten your way.
Garden Spotlights – These small lights are designed to add beauty and atmosphere.
Outdoor Solar Light Reviews
1. URPOWER Solar Lights Outdoor – 4 Pack
The URPOWER solar outdoor lights are designed for your front door, backyard, garage, deck, or other places that need lights. The color of them is cool white, which makes them modern and chic. Buyers who are looking for beautiful outdoor lights should have a try.
One of the most amazing features of this model is the motion sensor modes. They have three motion sensor modes, including dim, medium, and high light modes. The dim light mode works when there is no motion, the medium mode turns on for the whole night, and the high sensor mode turns on when there is a motion for 20 seconds.
Besides, the lights are IP65 waterproof. With this function, the outdoor model can work without stopping even when the weather is bad. So you don’t need to worry that the lights could be ruined when heavy rain comes. Also, this feature helps to improve the durability of the lights. So the lifespan of the lights can be extended.
Also, this model comes in a four-pack, and they have 270°wide lighting. Plus, they are designed with powerful 24-LED and 3-side. Therefore, when the four lights operate at the same time, the illumination range can be up to 800 square feet. You can see anything clearly when you are in your garden or backyard.
On the other hand, there are negatives too. For example, they need about seven to eight hours to be fully charged, which means that your location must have enough dun hours.
In conclusion, although they require a long time to get fully charged, they are worth buying for they have plenty of useful functions.
Pros
- IP65 waterproof– can work on rainy days
- 3 motion sensor modes– convenient to use
- 4 packs– larger coverage
- 270°lighting– clear to see the corner
- 24-LED– brighter and clearer
Cons
- Long charging time– need more sun hours
- Plastic shell– not sturdy enough
2. Mr Beams Solar Wedge Plus Outdoor Solar Lights
Unlike the last recommendation, the Mr Beams solar outdoor lights are designed as one big pack. This model uses High-strength ABS as its material, and the color is black. It just seems elegant and low-pitched. Also, they can be used in various places like the front door, yard, garage, and deck.
First of all, this unit is armed with advanced 102 LED beads. These super bright lights make it a powerful outdoor light model. With this design, it can offer outstanding illumination of up to 410 lumina. Compared with other similar LED solar lights, this unit is much brighter.
Something else that we would like to talk about is the water-resistance. It is super powerful IP65 waterproof, allowing the lights to work normally in any weather conditions. The model can withstand bad weather like rain, storm, or snow. So you don’t have to add extra protection when bad weather happens.
Another amazing feature is the built-in PIR motion sensor. It has a longer sensor length of up to 26 feet, and it can detect with a wider range of up to 120°, offering a wider range of lighting. So you will have a much broader night view. Besides, it has three working modes to meet your multiple-user requirements.
However, some users complain that the lights are not as bright as was claimed. Some others report that the motion sensor does not very well.
All in all, it is unavoidable that the model has some minor shortages, but they are still worth considering. They provide many user-friendly features. Don’t miss them.
Pros
- IP65 waterproof– better protection
- 102 LEDs– clear at night
- 3 working modes– meet various needs
- 270°lighting angle– larger view
Cons
- Not bright enough– under the expectation
- Only one pack– inconvenient
3. Signature Solar Garden Lights – 6 Pack
Signature Garden 6 pack solar garden lights are particularly designed for gardens. And they are made of super sturdy stainless steel to improve the model’s durability. If you are looking for solar outdoor lights for your garden, don’t miss these.
One of the most wonderful features of the model is the water resistance and weather resistance. The lights can handle any weather conditions. Even when there is heavy rain or a storm, they can keep working with normal efficiency. Their material makes them super tough and long-lasting.
Besides, the model comes in a six-pack. They can be placed along the pathway of your garden in a line. The light is shaped in the round, so the light comes in every direction to brighten your way. You can walk and act safely in the garden at night. Plus, they are decorative, which makes your garden beautiful and romantic.
Another advantage is that the packs are easy to install. They are wireless, so you just need to ground them along your pathway or some other places, and they will start working. Also, the batteries can recharge themselves automatically during the day. That is both energy-saving and effort-saving.
On the other hand, they also have defects. For instance, they have to be charged by direct sunlight, which is demanding for the weather.
In a nutshell, although it has defects, they are too minimal to outweigh the attractive advantages they have.
Pros
- Waterproof– better protection
- 6 packs– more light spots
- Stainless steel material– durable
- Wireless installation– easy to ground
- Round shape– looks beautiful
Cons
- Need direct sunlight– demanding for weather
- Inappropriate LED snug– inconvenient
4. URPOWER Landscape Solar Lights – 2 Pack
URPOWER adjustable solar lights are another product of URPOWER. Like the above-mentioned URPOWER lights, these are also designed in cool white. So these look cool and elegant. But this model comes in two packs, and they are shapes round in dial.
The first feature that we would like to talk about is the installation option. They have two installation options. You can ground them on the ground with sticks. Or you can fix them on the wall using screws. Both the two ways are wireless. And they can work as landscape lights for your decorations, or work as normal lights to brighten your way in the front door or driveway.
Another wonderful function is that they feature two brightness modes: low light mode and high light mode. But the two modes consume different amounts of solar energy. If you use the high light mode, they can work for 6 hours, and if you turn on the low light mode, they can work for 10 hours. To meet the energy consumption, you need wider solar panels.
Something else you may be interested in is an automatic on/off switch. They can automatically turn on when the sun goes down, and turn off when there is bright sunlight. So you don’t have to turn them on or off manually. You just need to enjoy their service without care.
However, there are shortcomings too. Some users complain that the lights go fade after using them for a long time. And the working hours can be heavily influenced by the direct sunlight hours.
All in all, there are always two sides to a coin. If you pay attention to the functions they provide, you can check them out.
Pros
- IP65 waterproof– better protection
- 2 packs– more light spots
- Two installation options– user-friendly
- 2 brightness modes– easy to use
- Automatic on/off switch– effortless
Cons
- Need direct sunlight– demanding for weather
- Shorter lifespan– need to change after a while
5. Luposwiten Outdoor Lights
Luposwiten Bright Path Garden lighting is another model manufactured by Luposwiten in the recommendation list. They are colored typically black and made of high-strength ABS. If you want to buy Luposwiten lights, these are highly recommendable.
First of all, they have 5 packs, and there are 28 LED lights. So these lights are super bright and they provide a large range of illumination. If you want the lights to work as a safeguard, these are the right ones to choose.
Another amazing feature of this unit is the working modes. They have three working modes for you to choose from. The full-on mode is the brightest, and it works for the front door, back door, deck, or backyard. Reduced light mode is designed for balcony railing, side, back yard, and so on. Motion detector-only mode works better for garage, driveway, path, and fence. You can choose any light mode according to your needs.
Besides, the integrated motion sensor is extremely sensitive. And the cover range can be up to 26 feet. If anything walks by, the motion sensor can detect it, even if it is just your cat or dog. Plus, the model can work for about eight to ten hours as long as it is fully charged.
On the other hand, sometimes the lights are not sensitive to the settings, and they can stick to one mode.
In a word, small defects are always unavoidable, but the multiple functions are still attractive to many shoppers. If you like them, you can try them.
Pros
- Waterproof– better protection
- Easy installation– user-friendly
- 3 working modes– easy to use
- Long working hours– convenient
Cons
- Can get stuck in one mode– insensitive
- Shorter lifespan– need to change after a while
6. JMEXSUSS Outdoor Solar String Lights
If you are looking for solar outdoor lights that are suitable for decorations, the JMEXSUSS Outdoor Solar Decor Powered Lights are the perfect option. Manufactured by JMEXSUSS, you can relax, for the brand is famous and reliable. So why not have a try?
First of all, these powerful outdoor lights are specially designed for decorative purposes. You can install them for patio, lawn, garden, wedding, outdoor Christmas party. The 200 solar string lights can decorate the area marvelously.
Besides, there are two switches and eight light modes. Compared with other outdoor lights, they are attractive and powerful. One switch is an on/off switch, and the other is the mode button. You can choose the light mode by pressing the button, and the solar string lights will shift to combination, waves, sequential, slow-glow, chasing/flash, slow fade, twinkle/flash, and steady on modes.
Another wonderful feature is the water resistance. It is IP44 waterproof. So the lights can deal with the common bad weather, such as rain. You don’t need to worry that the model can be ruined by the rain. This feature makes them durable.
However, they also have disadvantages. They are not very bright, so if you need high brightness, these are not for you.
In summary, as decorative lights, they are not very bright. But they provide plenty of practical functions to meet your requirements.
Pros
- Waterproof– better protection
- 200-LED– more light spots
- Easy installation– user-friendly
- 8 working modes– more choices
- Beautiful color– good-looking
Cons
- Not bright enough– limited use
- Manually switch– inconvenient
7. Enchanted Spaces Outdoor Solar Walkway Lights
Are you looking for some solar outdoor lights for your garden, lawn, patio, yard, walkway, or driveway? If so, we recommend these enchanted spaces solar lights. They are manufactured by Enchanted Spaces, and they are made of stainless steel. So the lights are durable to use.
Among their various amazing features, the most attractive one is the design. There are four colors for you to choose from: black, bronze, copper, and silver. You can make choices according to the color of your place so that the lights can match the location. Also, they come in 6 packs, so they can bright a quite large space. Plus, the glass lens and LED make them beautiful at night.
Besides, there comes a large solar panel and a 1200mah rechargeable battery. The solar panel is powerful enough to produce considerable solar power to charge the battery and the lights. The battery is rechargeable to ensure that there is enough power for backup.
Moreover, they are designed water-resistant. With the help of the waterproof, these lights can be left outside without worry. They can keep working during rainy days. Also, the stainless steel material is unlikely to be damaged. So the lifespan can be extended.
However, the negative is that these small lights can only provide dim brightness. So if you want those that can be extremely bright, you can go and look for others.
In conclusion, while the light is not bright enough, it can be a good decoration and light for your pathway.
Pros
- Waterproof– better protection
- Glass lens– beautiful
- Easy installation– user-friendly
- Stainless steel– durable
- 4-color– more choices
Cons
- Not bright enough– limited use
- No multiple modes– inconvenient
8. Nekteck Outdoor Solar Lights – 2 Pack
Nekteck 2-in-1 outdoor solar spotlights are much like the URPOWER adjustable solar lights that we recommended previously. But they are a little cheaper than the former ones. These lights include two packs, and the lights are warm white. If you like them, you can check them out.
One of the most wonderful features of this model is the brightness mode. They have two working brightness modes: high light mode and low light mode. You can choose one mode according to your needs. And they can keep operating for 6 to 10 hours after being fully charged. What’s more, they have an automatic on/off switch. When there is sunlight, they will automatically turn off, and when the dawn comes, they just turn on without manual operation. So the lights can save energy during the daytime, and you don’t have to switch them by yourself.
Moreover, both the light and the solar panel can be adjusted. You can adjust the angle of the solar panel to allow it to receive the most sunlight and generate more power. Also, you can adjust the angle of the solar light to a degree of up to 180°, so that they can offer the best illumination to brighten your house.
Furthermore, they are IP64 waterproof. Such good water resistance makes the lights outstanding for night workers. They can withstand any terrible weather conditions like rain, snow, or frost. Thus you don’t need to worry that they can be broken on rainy days.
On the other hand, there are also defects. Some users report that the color of the light is too yellow, which makes it dimmer.
All in all, if you don’t mind the dim light, you can buy them because there are plenty of marvelous features to satisfy your demand.
Pros
- IP64 waterproof– better protection
- 4-LED– powerful light
- Easy installation– user-friendly
- Adjustable solar light– convenient
- Automatic switch– effortless
Cons
- Too yellow light– dim
- Just two light modes– under the expectation
9. Gama Sonic Outdoor Solar Lights
Manufactured by Gama Sonic, the GS-94C-D Victorian Bulb-Double headlamps are the perfect choice for your front door or backyard. They are two-pack, and an elegant black. If you are looking for decorative solar outdoor lights, don’t miss these.
The first feature we would like to talk about is the automatic dusk-to-dawn lighting. They are designed with an integrated photocell sensor. So when the included battery gets charged fully during the daytime, it can automatically turn on at night. Also, when the sun comes up, it just turns off. So they are both eco-friendly and energy-saving.
Besides, the installation is simple and easy. They are wireless. So you can just hang them on the pole and fix them, and they will start working. And the nice appearance makes them a good accessory for your front door. Meanwhile, they brighten your way when it is dark.
Plus, they hardly need special maintenance. As long as you install them on the poles, they will operate by receiving sunlight. You merely need to wipe the solar panel occasionally. So there is no extra money for regular maintenance. You will love them.
However, the brightness modes need you to switch manually. That might be annoying for some people.
To conclude, in general, they are the ideal option for people who are looking for the right front door solar lights.
Pros
- Waterproof– better protection
- Nice appearance– beautiful decoration
- Easy installation– user-friendly
- Adjustable solar light– convenient
- Automatic switch– effortless
Cons
- Not bright enough– dim
- Need to choose the modes manually– inconvenient
10. Alpha 180X Solar Flagpole Light
After recommending so many good outdoor solar lights for your house, we now recommend this special one for you. The Alpha 180X flagpole light is mainly designed for a flagpole. So if you are looking for such special-use lights, you’d better check this out.
First of all, this model has three levels of brightness modes for you to set. They are low light mode, normal light mode, and high light mode. And the light range is from 60 lumina to 230 lumina. The corresponding working hours are between 6 and 12 hours. This is a practical function, for it helps people to save energy.
Besides, it includes 35 packs of white LED, which can radiate a normal white beam at a 60-degree beam angle, providing optimal space coverage. Combined with the adjustable brightness modes, your flagpole can be brightened fairly. Plus, you can also install it in your front door or backyard to light up your way.
Moreover, they are water-resistant. You just ground it on the pole, and leave it working automatically. Never worry that it could be damaged by the bad weather. It is tough and durable.
On the other hand, some buyers report that the light is not bright enough. And some others complained the mounting way is limited.
In a nutshell, even if there are some minor shortcomings, this flagpole light is still worth considering. After all, it has multiple useful features, and they are durable.
Pros
- Waterproof– better protection
- 35-pack– brighter
- Easy installation– user-friendly
- 3 brightness modes– convenient
- Automatic switch– effortless
Cons
- Not bright enough– under the expectation
- Limited mounding way– inconvenient
Many great options
As you can see, there are many great solar outdoor lights on the market to suit almost any requirements. If you have decided you’d like to purchase one but are having trouble choosing, any of the picks in our review would be a great place to start your search.