Add Instant Curb Appeal With The Best Outdoor Solar Lights For Your Home (2024)

Add Instant Curb Appeal With The Best Outdoor Solar Lights For Your Home (1)

Need a quick and affordable way to make your outdoor spaces brighter and more inviting? Outdoor solar lights are a great solution, because they are typically easy to install and maintain, and don’t need to be plugged into an electrical outlet, which can be limiting.

Over the past year, we've tested 62 different outdoor lights, including path lights, smart lights, spotlights, lanterns, wall-mounted, and string lights. We put each light to the test either in The Lab in Des Moines, Iowa, where we simulated hail storms and filmed the lights overnight to see if they truly stayed on from dusk until dawn, or installed them at our own homes across the country. After each testing period, each light was evaluated for its ease of assembly, brightness, features, design, value, and durability.

Before selecting your lights, Sheva Knopfler, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Lights.com, a well-known online retailer of all kinds of lights and lightbulbs, recommends asking yourself: "How much brightness do you need? Does the light need to be direct or spread out? The height of your solar lights is also important. Will they be a tripping hazard? Are you able to install them into your pavement or garden?"

Ready to choose the perfect solar lights for your yard? Here are the best outdoor solar lights we tested in a range of styles and sizes.

Editor’s Note: This review was updated in January 2024 based on our latest testing.

Our Top Picks

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In This Article

  • Our Picks

  • Other Options We Tested

  • How We Tested

  • What to Look For

  • FAQ

  • Why Trust The Spruce

Best Overall

AloftSun Solar Motion Sensor Lights

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Our Ratings

  • Ease of Setup

    5/5

  • Design

    3/5

  • Brightness

    5/5

  • Value

    4/5

  • Features

    5/5

What We Like

  • Highest waterproof rating

  • Three easy-to-use modes

  • Bright enough to read by

  • Two installation methods

What We Don't Like

  • Basic design

Our top pick for most outdoor spaces is the AloftSun Motion Sensor Solar Landscape Spotlights. During testing, they withstood all of our durability tests, were easy to use, and were even bright enough to read under! These spotlights can detect motion from as much as 33 feet away, depending on the setting.

The three modes that operate from dusk until dawn—dim light/high light when motion is detected; no light/high light when motion is detected; or medium light/constantly on—give you options to suit your lighting needs and are simple to use. (It did, however, take us a few minutes at first to figure out how to trigger them.) Easy to put together (just two pieces), this two-pack of lights can either be staked into the ground (the method we tested) or mounted onto a wall with the included hardware.

We were impressed at how these lights held up during our durability tests. Since the manufacturer claims these lights have the highest waterproof rating and are frost-resistant, we sprinkled water on them, and then froze them for over an hour. After each test, the lights still worked just as well as before! We also dropped a golf ball on their solar light panel from a distance of 6 feet, and they still held up.

These spotlights feature 30 LED light chips, which help illuminate your pathway, garden, or yard easily, stand up to the elements, and are noted by the manufacturer to have a 40,000-hour lifespan. However, they do have a basic design and are more cool-toned (6500K) than some might prefer for a home. However, if you are looking for durable, bright lights with useful features at a great price, you can’t go wrong with this pick.

Dimensions: ‎11.81 x 5.43 x 4.33 inches | Lumens: Not listed | Charging time: 1-2 days first use, up to 8 hours on cloudy days | Operating time: 6-12 hours depending on setting |Weather Resistance Rating: IP68 | Color Temperature: 6500K

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Best Budget

Home Zone Security Solar Wall Lanterns

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Our Ratings

  • Ease of Setup

    5/5

  • Design

    4.5/5

  • Brightness

    3.5/5

  • Value

    4/5

  • Features

    3/5

What We Like

  • Stylish design

  • Two-pack

  • Can hang or place on table

  • Portable

What We Don't Like

If you are looking for wall-mountable lantern-style lights, this option from Home Zone is the perfect choice. You get a two-pack of preassembled lanterns that include wall brackets and screws (no tools included). We love how versatile this set is—you can place them on a table, on a garden hook, mount them to the wall, or carry them around by their handles when you need extra light. Plus, they come with a 1-year warranty.

Made of stainless steel and glass, these lights stood up to our durability testing, with no damage to the glass or solar panels. They are bright and cheery for an entryway but not as bright as other options we tested—we couldn’t read under them. With a simple, automatic dusk-to-dawn operation, these lights are simple to use but have no other features. They also need two AA batteries to operate, which eventually need replacing. However, we love their farmhouse style, affordable price, and the ability to have wall-mountable lights without needing electricity.

Dimensions: ‎8.66 x 6.3 x 10.04 inches| Lumens: 10 each | Charging Time: 8 hours | Operating time:Not listed | Weather Resistance Rating: Not listed | Color Temperature: 3000K

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Best String Lights

Brightech Ambiance Pro Solar String Lights

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Our Ratings

  • Ease of Setup

    5/5

  • Design

    3.5/5

  • Brightness

    4/5

  • Value

    4/5

  • Features

    3/5

What We Like

  • Stylish design

  • Versatile placement

  • Durable, with shatterproof plastic bulbs

  • Simple installation

What We Don't Like

  • Can’t connect multiple strings

  • Lights aren’t as bright or stay on as long as other lights we tested

Outdoor string lights can make your patio more inviting during the summer and add a festive touch during the winter holidays. In fact, we think they are versatile enough to leave up all year! This set from Brightech is 27 feet long, with no electricity required. Just stake the solar panel in the ground or clip it to a balcony or other surface and place the lights where you want them! These shatterproof plastic Edison-style bulbs not only look stylish but are durable as well, holding up well during our tests. Though the solar panel moved a bit when we hit it with a golf ball, it showed no damage. They have a 1,000-hour charge lifespan (around 2.5 years, according to the manufacturer) and are backed by a full 2-year warranty.

We loved the “moody lighting” these lights emitted but noted they were bright enough to read by only when the lights were gathered together and not strung out. Also, these did not stay lit as long as the others we tested (6 hours total). If you are mostly using them for decor or entertaining purposes, this shouldn’t be an issue. And although you can’t connect multiple strands together (as we hoped!), there is a 48-foot strand available if you have the space.

Dimensions: 27 feet long | Lumens: Not listed | Charging Time: 6 hours | Operating time: Up to 6 hours fully charged | Weather Resistance Rating: Not listed | Color Temperature: 3000K

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Best Wall Mount

Better Homes & Gardens Solar Dusk to Dawn Decorative Outdoor LED Light

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Our Ratings

  • Ease of Setup

    5/5

  • Design

    4.5/5

  • Brightness

    4.3/5

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Value

    5/5

What We Like

  • Stylish design

  • Easy installation

  • Detects motion up to 25 feet away

What We Don't Like

  • Can't adjust brightness or other settings

The Better Homes & Gardens Solar Dusk to Dawn Decorative Outdoor LED Light is a simple yet stylish way to add a wall sconce to your entryway. (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by The Spruce's parent company, Dotdash Meredith). We tested this light fixture at home and were most impressed by its easy installation, taking less than 10 minutes. We just had to attach the bracket to the wall with two screws and attach the light to the bracket.

Besides adding curb appeal, the light detects motion up to 25 feet away, which is an added bonus. While this light doesn't offer additional features, or the brightness of an electrical light fixture, we do love its "set it and forget it" qualities. It simply starts working once it is charged and goes on at a lower level of warm, yellow light from dusk to dawn unless motion is detected (it returns to this energy-saving mode 30 seconds after motion is detected). Even in the lower light setting, it was bright enough to illuminate the area up to 10 feet away, including where we parked our car.

During our testing period, there were a number of storms and we are happy to report that the light withstood the rain and wind without any issues.

Dimensions: ‎7.70 x 6.10 x 13.5 Inches| Lumens: 200 | Charging Time: Not listed | Operating time:Not listed | Weather Resistance Rating: Not listed | Color Temperature: Not listed

Best Set

Hampton Bay Solar Landscape Path Lights

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Our Ratings

  • Ease of Setup

    5/5

  • Design

    3/5

  • Brightness

    4/5

  • Value

    4/5

  • Features

    3/5

What We Like

  • Great value for pack size

  • Durable and bright

  • Stylish design

  • 2-year warranty

What We Don't Like

  • Only one setting

  • Only sold in large packs

Solar path lights allow you to illuminate a walkway or driveway without having to worry about having outdoor electricity or extension cords. Aside from being stylish and durable, this 10-pack from Hampton Bay is a great value, especially if you have a longer area to illuminate. We loved the “sparkly effect” these lights display on the ground, as well as their unique crackle look on the glass. Plus, they are as practical as they are stylish: the light they give off is so bright we were able to read under them while testing.

We also found these lights passed all of our durability tests, holding up well during watering, freezing, and being impacted with a golf ball. Made of aluminum, glass, and plastic, they stand 18 inches tall and have only three pieces to assemble, which we found to be easy. Like many of these solar lights, they feature dusk-to-dawn operation and stay lit for 8 hours (after an 8-hour charge). They offer no other settings or special features and only come in packs of 10. However, if you are looking for a great set of path lights, this option stands out.

Dimensions: ‎18.1 x 4.92 x 4.92 inches | Lumens: 10 | Charging Time: 10-12 hours | Operating time: 8 hours | Weather Resistance Rating: IPX4 | Color Temperature: 3000K

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Best Decorative

Brightown LED Solar Powered Fairy Lights

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Our Ratings

  • Ease of Setup

    5/5

  • Design

    3.5/5

  • Brightness

    4/5

  • Value

    4/5

  • Features

    4.5/5

What We Like

  • Includes an extra set

  • Eight lighting modes

  • Durable

What We Don't Like

  • Low ambient lighting

  • Not as many placement options

For anaffordable lighting option that adds ambianceto your outdoor space, we recommend the 33-foot-long Brightown Outdoor Solar string lights. Available in seven colors (we tested white), these fairy lights survived all of our durability tests and were easy to install, with only two stakes needed for the solar panels. And because they are solar-powered, you don’t need electricity for them to work, unlike many other outdoor string lights. Just note that they are not a great option if you want to add bright light outdoors.

However, we especially appreciated the eight lighting modes, including combination, waves, sequential, slow glow, chasing/flash, slow fade, twinkle/flash, and steady-on, so you can choose fun options for gatherings or holidays. After turning on automatically at night, these lights have an up to 10-hour runtime, but inexplicably, they did turn off for 60-second increments during our overnight testing. Also, you have to be sure to place the solar light panels where they can get light, which may limit placement options a bit. However, this two-pack is a great budget option, especially if you are looking for string lights or want to add a fun element to your outdoor decor.

Dimensions: ‎33 feet long | Lumens: Not listed | Charging Time: Not listed | Operating time: 8-10 hours after fully charged | Weather Resistance Rating: IP65 | Color Temperature: 2700K

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Best for Post

Kemeco Solar Post Light

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Our Ratings

  • Ease of Setup

    5/5

  • Design

    5/5

  • Brightness

    5/5

  • Durability

    5/5

  • Value

    4/5

What We Like

  • Bright, beautiful light

  • Stylish design

  • Two placement options

  • Easy to assemble and install

What We Don't Like

  • Post not included

  • Glass could shatter

A light post can add a stylish, vintage look to your decor while illuminating your entryway. And with the Kemeco Solar Post Light Fixture, you have many more options on where to add it to your outdoor space, with no electricity or wires needed. You can mount this light to a post (not included) or to its included mounting base and place it just about anywhere. We tested both installation methods—at our lab, we assembled the light to the mounting base and placed it on a step, and during our at-home test, we assembled and installed the light on an existing round pole. We also noted that screws and a bracket were included for both a round or square pole, which isn't listed on the manufacturer's product description.

In both settings, we found the light easy to put together with just two pieces. While using the mounting base, however, we found it a bit top-heavy. If you choose to use the mounting base, we recommend also using the mounting bracket to screw it securely to a step to correct any concern over top-heaviness. We found both methods easy to install, and once set up, we loved how this aluminum light fixture’s lantern style and ripple glass added a nice glow. Despite the ripple glass, the light shines so brightly that we could even read around it while testing. While it's certainly still bright, this light isn't bright enough to be a security spotlight.

We noted that the only feature, aside from its solar capabilities, is an on/off switch. Our lab testing also revealed some conflicting results. On the one hand, the frosted glass shattered during our golf ball test; on the other, the solar panels still worked. The manufacturer claims the product is weatherproof and wasn’t damaged when we poured water directly above it in the lab. We also haven't noticed any issues with the light being damaged by storms so far in our real-world testing.

Dimensions: 8.8 x 8.8 x 18.1 including 5.5-inch mounting base| Lumens: 130-145 | Charging Time: At least 8 hours | Operating time: 6-8 hours | Weather Resistance Rating: Not listed | Color Temperature: 3000K

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Best Floodlight

LEPOWER Solar Security Light 1000LM

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Our Ratings

  • Ease of Setup

    5/5

  • Design

    4/5

  • Brightness

    4/5

  • Durability

    4/5

  • Value

    4.5/5

What We Like

  • Easy to set up

  • Detects motion up to 72 feet away

  • 15-foot cord for solar panel

What We Don't Like

  • No additional features

A floodlight is a great way to increase the visibility around your home. Solar-powered floodlights, like the Lepower Solar Security Light 1000LM, are a great option if you don't have access to an electrical outlet, since they can be installed anywhere. It took us only 20 minutes to install this floodlight on a tree facing our backyard gate (where we did not have the option for wired lighting). While we noted that it wasn't as bright as a wired floodlight we've used in the past, we appreciated the extra lighting on an otherwise dark part of our yard.

This light has a 15-foot cable that gives you the flexibility to install the light anywhere while making sure the solar panel is in a place that gets adequate light. Although we didn't experience extreme weather during testing, the light has a weather resistance rating of IP 65, so it should be able to handle inclement weather. We also appreciate that it can detect motion up to 72 feet away. Just keep in mind that it doesn't offer extra features, like the smart capabilities of the Ring Solar Flood Light, our best smart pick. For example, it doesn't even have an on-and-off switch. But we think it is a simple, budget-friendly way to add a floodlight to your property.

Dimensions: ‎10 x 8.5 x 4.8 inches| Lumens: 1000 | Charging Time: Not listed | Operating time: Not listed | Weather Resistance Rating: IP65 | Color Temperature: 5500K-6000K

Best Motion-Sensor

Linkind StarRay Solar Spotlights

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Our Ratings

  • Ease of Setup

    5/5

  • Design

    3/5

  • Brightness

    4/5

  • Value

    4/5

  • Features

    3/5

What We Like

  • Two motion detection modes

  • Bright for large spaces and pathways

  • Simple, all-in-one design

  • Can wall mount or stake in ground

What We Don't Like

  • Not a lot of features

Solar-powered lights with motion sensors allow you to add lighting when and where you need it. The Linkind StarRay LED Solar Motion Sensor Landscape Spotlights have two modes to suit your needs. You can choose to have them turn on for 25 seconds when motion is detected or to operate constantly at half light and only brighten for 10 seconds when motion is detected. (We noted that on the second mode, the difference between half-light and full-light was hardly detectable, although both modes are bright enough that we could read under them.) Although they are powered during the day, these lights do not automatically turn on at dusk unless you select one of those modes.

Aside from their motion sensor feature, we also love their versatility and streamlined design. You can stake them in the ground or mount them on a wall with the included hardware. The light and solar panel are on the same unit and can be pivoted up to 90 degrees vertically (180 degrees horizontally), so you can angle the light exactly where you want it to shine. Also, we found that these lights withstood our water and golf ball tests without sustaining damage. But when frozen, they strobed three times before turning off.

The price for the Linkind StarRay LED seems a little high for a single light, but we found it works as described and feels sturdy. We recommend it either for landscape lighting or for lighting pathways and security.

Dimensions:‎11.4 x 6.26 x 3.94 inches | Lumens: Not listed | Charging Time: Not listed | Operating time: 6-12 hours | Weather Resistance Rating: IP67 | Color Temperature: 6500K

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Best Hanging

Derynome Solar Lantern Outdoor Lights

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Our Ratings

  • Ease of Setup

    5/5

  • Design

    4.5/5

  • Brightness

    4/5

  • Durability

    4/5

  • Value

    5/5

What We Like

  • Small footprint

  • Easy to install

  • On and off switch

  • Durable and stylish

What We Don't Like

  • Tips over easily on a table

Wall-mounted lights can help you save space, but they can be a little intimidating and time-consuming to install. Plus, there could be many reasons you can’t install them in the location you want to, including lack of sunlight or surface space. Requiring a small footprint for the hanging bracket, the Derynome Solar Lantern Outdoor Lights give you all of the benefits of wall-mounted lights with little effort—you will need a drill and need to make sure the holes are level, but only two screws are needed.

We installed both of these lights at one of our homes (one on an enclosed side porch and the other on a front porch post) in less than 15 minutes, not including the time it took to locate a drill. Once the brackets were installed, it only took seconds to hang the lantern on the hook. Keep in mind, though, that the lantern feels sturdy and durable but is lightweight (just over 3 pounds) and can swing around on the hook—make sure you hang it at a height that is accessible for when you need to remove it. We did note after rainy and windy weather (although not extreme), the lantern never blew off. The on/off switch is located inside the lantern, but it was easy to twist the lantern to access it. When on, the lantern will go on and off automatically (dusk until dawn).

The bracket extends 5 inches from the wall, so even with a small overhang, the solar panel is more likely to get sun. In fact, we installed them under a little overhang, and they were still able to get the sunlight they needed to remain lit overnight. But since they are so easy to install, if you find you need a sunnier spot, it’s relatively easy to rehang. Although a little brighter, this pick is very similar in style, price, weight, and durability to our lab-tested, best budget option, the Home Zone Solar Wall Lanterns. However, the Derynome Solar Lantern Outdoor Lights have an on/off switch and are available in three different colors (black, white, and bronze). We also like that the battery lasts longer. If you are looking for a lantern you can place on a table though, the Home Zone pick is the better choice, with a wider base.

Dimensions: ‎11 x 6 x 6 inches | Lumens: 15 each | Charging Time: 6 hours | Operating time: 8 hours | Weather Resistance Rating: IP65 | Color Temperature: 3000

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Best Smart

Ring Solar Floodlight

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Our Ratings

  • Ease of Setup

    5/5

  • Design

    5/5

  • Brightness

    4.5/5

  • Durability

    4/5

  • Value

    4/5

What We Like

  • Plenty of settings controlled via app

  • Easy to set up

  • Large solar panel

  • Works with Alexa

What We Don't Like

  • Requires Ring Bridge

The Ring Smart Lighting Solar Floodlight is a great way to upgrade your existing floodlight and tap into the benefits of smart home features. We did just that in one of our homes: We removed a traditional motion sensor light (keeping the existing plate) and quickly installed this Ring Smart Light, utilizing the easy-to-follow, illustrated directions (which are also helpful if you are installing a light for the first time). Keep in mind, you will also need to buy and install the Ring Bridge to utilize all of the smart features (if you don't have it already), although it was easy to plug in, install the app, and set up.

As with other solar lights, you need to ensure that the solar panel on this smart outdoor light gets enough sunlight to fully charge each day. Since the Ring Smart Floodlight has a solar panel that hangs on a long cord, you have more options on where you can install the light. The solar panel is large and matches the color of the floodlight. Since this light is available in both black and white finishes, we found the white finish helped the solar panel to blend into the siding of a home. You can also choose to recharge the battery separately using the USB cord.

After setting up the app, you will be impressed with the abundance of features you can use with this smart home product. Not only can you turn the light on and off via the app, but you can also schedule when the light will be activated, adjust motion sensitivity, adjust the brightness, and more. We found all of these features to be very useful but do wish the light was as bright as the previous floodlight installed at one of our homes (although we did appreciate the warmness of this Ring light). It was bright enough to serve its purpose as a floodlight and think this floodlight is the ideal choice for homeowners who already have multiple smart devices integrated in their home. This light can also work with other Ring devices and lights through the Ring app.

Dimensions: 5.51 x 10.43 x 4.68 inches | Lumens: Up to 1200 (adjustable) | Charging Time: Not listed | Operating time: Not listed |Weather Resistance Rating: IP66 | Color Temperature: 3500

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Compare

Ease of SetupDesignBrightnessValueFeatures

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Best Overall:

AloftSun Solar Motion Sensor Lights

$25 at Amazon53545

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Best Budget:

Home Zone Security Solar Wall Lanterns

$30 at Amazon54.53.543

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Best String Lights:

Brightech Ambiance Pro Solar String Lights

$30 at Amazon53.5443

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Best Wall Mount:

Better Homes & Gardens Solar Dusk to Dawn Decorative Outdoor LED Light

$50 at Walmart54.54.355

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Best Set:

Hampton Bay Solar Landscape Path Lights

$28 at Home Depot53443

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Best Decorative:

Brightown LED Solar Powered Fairy Lights

$14 at Amazon53.5444.5

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Best for Post:

Kemeco Solar Post Light

$100 at Amazon55544

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Best Floodlight:

LEPOWER Solar Security Light 1000LM

$42 at Amazon5444.54.3

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Best Motion-Sensor:

Linkind StarRay Solar Spotlights

$33 at Amazon53443

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Best Hanging:

Derynome Solar Lantern Outdoor Lights

$39 at Amazon54.5454

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Best Smart:

Ring Solar Floodlight

$90 at Amazon554.545

Final Verdict

Durable and versatile, the AloftSun Motion Sensor Solar Landscape Spotlights are our best overall pick with three easy-to-use lighting modes and two installation methods, so you can have bright light when and where you need it. We also love our best budget pick, the Home Zone Solar Wall Lanterns, 2-Pack, a stylish and affordable way to brighten up your doorway without worrying about electricity. Easy to mount on the wall, this set is built to withstand the elements and features an on/off switch.

Other Options We Tested

The following are additional products we tested and stand by; though they didn’t quite meet our rigorous standards, we think they’re still worth considering.

Aogist Solar Ground Lights

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While there wasn't anything particularly wrong with this set of lights, they just didn't impress us as much compared to other designs. Frankly, we found them a bit boring, and we questioned their durability against a work boot or a bike tire. They did survive and function after our water, freeze, and golf ball drop tests, but we still think there are better sets available that will last multiple seasons.

Beau Jardin 4-Pack Solar Pathway Lights

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With the number of rave reviews online, we had high hopes for this pathway light set. The ground spikes on these lights felt loose, and our suspicions were confirmed when we attempted to remove the lights from styrofoam after our water tests. They are also very dim, so we were not able to read with the amount of light they put out.

How We Tested The Outdoor Solar Lights

Over the last few years, we've tested 62 different outdoor lights, including over 30 solar-powered options. After testing in our lab or at one of our own homes across the country, each light was evaluated on ease of assembly, brightness, features, design, value, and durability.

  • Ease of assembly: We set up a timer and assembled each light according to the manufacturer's instructions. We noted the clarity of the instructions (if they were easy or difficult to follow) and if hardware was included or needed to be purchased separately. We also noted the installation process, whether they were pathway lights that were staked into the ground or wall-mounted or hanging lights that we installed on our homes.
  • Brightness: After putting them together, we let all the lights charge in full sunlight for the time specified in their instructions. For lights tested at our lab, we then took each to a dark room to run through all of their features, including any motion sensors and lighting modes and noted how easy it was to cycle through those. (If the lights didn't turn on automatically, we searched for an accessible and functioning on/off switch.) For lights with motion sensors, we exited the room, waited 2 minutes, then re-entered, and we noted whether the lights turned on without any prompting. Then, we evaluated each light's brightness by attempting to read a book under it. We evaluated the brightness similarly at home, noting if the color and brightness were as expected for the type of lighting and if it turned on and off when expected (including for motion sensors).
  • Features: For lights tested in our lab, after making sure the lights were on the appropriate setting (dusk-to-dawn mode, turned on, or left alone if automatic), we set up a video camera and recorded each overnight. We then reviewed the recording, noting when each light turned on and off and any anomalies. For those tested at home, we noted if the lights turned on at sunset and off at sunrise, and if they stayed on all night or turned on and off intermittently. We also noted and tested any other features, including smart capabilities, and other settings.
  • Design and durability: We wanted to see how each product withstood the elements, including rain, hail, and winter's subfreezing temperatures. To simulate rain in our lab, we sprinkled water on them from a watering can; "hail" took the form of a golf ball, dropped from 6 feet above the fixture and 4 feet above the solar panel. Then, we froze each light for an hour. After each test, we noted any changes and checked to see that all the features were still working.For lights we used in our homes, we noted how the lights have faired against any inclement weather over the testing period.
  • Value: After the testing period, we noted what we liked and didn't like about each product and if we felt that the price was reflective of its features.

Watch Behind-the-Scenes Action From Our Solar Light Testing

What to Look For in Outdoor Solar Lights

Type

Outdoor solar lights fall into three general types based on their light output: motion-activated, dusk-to-dawn, and timer-controlled. Because of solar cell size and battery capacity, the gathered solar energy is a limited resource, so consider when you want the lights to shine and for how long. Timer-controlled solar lights give you the most control since you can specify the time they turn on and for how long.

Dusk-to-dawn solar lights use sensors to automatically illuminate when daylight dwindles and should have the lights remain on until sunrise. In regions with more limited sun, especially during winter, dusk-to-dawn lights may have trouble storing enough solar energy to stay bright for an extended period each night.

Motion-activated lights turn on when triggered by movement and conserve solar energy reserves, such as theAloftSun Motion Sensor Solar Landscape Spotlights, our best overall pick for its bright lighting, three modes, and two installation methods. This style is often used for floodlights or for specific lighting needs, such as outside your back door.

Our best smart pick, the Ring Smart Lighting Solar Floodlight, offers all of the benefits of a smart home device, including being able to set the lighting schedule, adjust the brightness, and adjust the motion detection settings, all from an app.

Installation

Where you want to use solar lights determines how you install them. Some outdoor solar lights mount like traditional light fixtures, using screws. For path lighting, solar lights with stakes are quick and easy to install—just push them into the ground, and you’re ready to go. "Brick lights are great for illuminating gardens and pathways, as they can be installed into pavement or dirt," says Knopfler. Another option that is typically easy to install is solar-powered string lights. These typically have a solar panel that needs to be placed where it can receive a good amount of sun daily. For example, theBrightech Solar LED String Lights, our best string lights pick, can provide ambiance to your outdoor space all year long. Wall lights, which are similar to string lights in effect, are also an option some retailers offer. "Wall lights are great for general lighting around the perimeter of your space," Knopfler adds.

Brightness

Lumens determine brightness: from 5 lumens for landscaping ambiance to 350 lumens or more for a strong spotlight or floodlight. For example, our best floodlight pick, the Lepower Solar Security Light 1000LM has 1000 lumens, while our best smart pick, the Ring Solar Floodlight has 1200 lumens. Your needs depend on your desired location and application. During testing, we noted that not all products listed their lumen ratings on the package.

Keep in mind that different retailers will offer different solar brightness options, which are all designed for different purposes. "Depending on size, color, and placement in relation to the sun, most of our solar lights could produce up to 20 lumens," Knopfler says. "These lights are meant to be layered, so you can customize your brightness by placing them closer or further away from each other."

FAQ

  • How do outdoor solar lights work?

    Typically, outdoor solar lights contain several key components, including solar cells, rechargeable batteries, photoresistors, and lightbulbs. During the day, solar cells convert the sun’s rays into electricity, which the batteries store. At night, photoresistors detect the absence of ambient light and switch on the units. The light stays on until the batteries run out or the photoresistors detect light in the morning.

  • Do outdoor solar lights need direct sunlight?

    Solar lights placed in bright, direct light collect more energy in their batteries, which means your light stays on longer. For best results, place your solar light in a location that gets several hours of direct sunlight. However, solar lights still work in indirect light or on cloudy days—they just won’t collect as much energy and may not stay on as long.

  • How do you install outdoor solar lights?

    To install solar lights, follow the product instructions. Some lights are designed to be mounted to the wall using screws, while others have stakes that you stick in the ground. For the best results, arrange your product's solar panel in a way that it gets several hours of sunlight throughout the day.

  • Where’s the best place to install outdoor solar lights?

    To get the best results from your outdoor solar lights, place them where they get 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight. If they’re designed to be wall-mounted, consider placing them up high, so they’re closer to the sun. Ensure that your lights aren't in an inconvenient location, like in the path of your lawn mower, blocking a window, or encased in shadow.

  • How long do outdoor solar lights last?

    In general, batteries in outdoor solar lights last 3 to 4 years before needing replacement. Some manufacturers sell replacement batteries, while others require you to buy an entirely new fixture. You can help increase your solar lights' life span by cleaning the panels regularly and protecting them from harsh winter weather. "LED lights can last up to 10 years, so if your solar lights are properly cared for and protected from extreme elements, they could last a decade," Knopfler adds.

Why Trust The Spruce?

Jenica Currieis an editor who covers outdoor, gardening, holiday, gift guides, and home improvement topics and joined The Spruce in 2020. She has tested dozens of products at home and in the Lab, including artificial Christmas trees, clothing racks, bean bag chairs, fans, and vacuums. She spends her weekends gardening and working on other projects to improve the outdoor space around her home (including adding path lights along her driveway!). For this article, she used our test results and researched dozens of top-rated outdoor solar lights to compile this list of the best available options. She also personally installed and tested the Derynome Solar Lantern Outdoor Lights on her front porch (which has held up over a year and counting!)

Our Experts:

  • Sheva Knopfler, Co-Founder and Creative Director ofLights.com
  • Emma Phelps, an associate editor for The Spruce

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FAQs

How do you get the best out of solar lights? ›

Reposition the light

Your solar light may not be receiving the amount of sunlight it needs to charge. Try repositioning it so it can receive the most sunlight throughout the day. The best position is south-facing.

Do outdoor solar lights really work? ›

Outdoor solar lights provide light where your power source won't reach. There are a variety of solar lights to meet the needs of any space. Pathway lights, like the ones we tested, are excellent for providing safety and visibility to a walkway or driveway.

How can I make my outdoor solar lights last longer? ›

If you own solar lights, here are five ways to make them last longer:
  1. Tip 1: Choose the Right Season and the Right Place. ...
  2. Tip 2: Keep Your Solar Lights Clean. ...
  3. Tip 3: Install Your Solar Lights in an Open Space. ...
  4. Tip 4: Protect Your Solar Panels From Freezing Temperatures. ...
  5. Tip 5: Turn Them off When Not Needed.

Are solar street lights worth it? ›

They offer significant energy and cost savings, as well as improved safety and easy installation. However, they may not be the best option in areas with low sunlight or that require high levels of illumination. It is important to consider your specific lighting needs and budget before choosing a lighting solution.

What are the disadvantages of solar outdoor lights? ›

Disadvantages of Solar Lighting
  • They're Weather Dependent. If it's usually sunny blues skies where you live, solar lights are without question a fantastic choice for many applications. ...
  • You Can't Put Them Anywhere You Like. ...
  • They Have a Higher Initial Cost.

Why do solar lights stop working so quickly? ›

The most likely cause is the battery. For one reason or another, it's not holding or receiving enough charge. There are a few things that you can try here... The first is the same as above: switch off and allow them to charge for 36-48 hours before turning them back on again.

What is the lifespan of outdoor solar lights? ›

Generally speaking, the batteries in outdoor solar lights can be expected to last about 3-5 years before they will need to be replaced. The LEDs themselves can last ten years or more.

Do solar lights need sun or just daylight? ›

Solar LED lights needs sunlight to work but they do not necessarily need direct sunlight. In fact, these lights can still get charged and work on cloudy days or in areas with partial shade. The solar panel will still collect energy from the sun even if it is not exposed directly.

Are solar or LED outdoor lights better? ›

Power Source – LEDs draw their power from a battery or main power supply, while solar lights are powered by energy from the sun. Energy Efficiency – Both systems would effectively cut down monthly expenses in terms of electricity consumption. However, investing in LEDs will pay back much faster.

Why do my solar lights not stay on all night? ›

In most instances of solar powered lights not working, it is the batteries at fault. Either they are not receiving charge or they are not holding it. If the lights work using normal batteries then it is clear that the problem is with either the rechargeable batteries or the solar panel.

Does clear nail polish help solar lights? ›

Now, you are wondering whether it's possible to fix solar lights with nail polish or not. Well, in that case, the answer is yes. You can use clear nail polish to fix the solar lights. The clear nail polish acts like a conductor which helps the light to work again unless the light is physically damaged.

How do I choose the best solar street light? ›

The quality and performance of solar street lights are critical factors to consider. Evaluate the materials used, construction quality, and efficiency of the solar panels, LED lights, batteries, and control systems. Opt for manufacturers that use premium components and adhere to stringent quality standards.

Why is there an on-off switch on solar lights? ›

To keep a solar light's battery from running out too fast, there is an on/off switch. This switch makes sure you can use the light when you need it. Turning off your solar lights when they're not needed helps save energy. That way, the battery stays full for longer.

What is the best height for solar street lights? ›

Along national highways: Height should not be less than 12m, with a spacing of at least 40m; City side roads: Height should not be less than 10m, with an installation distance of 30m; Rural roads: Heights of 6m or more, with an installation distance of 25-30m.

How can I maximize my solar panel output? ›

9 Ways to Improve Solar Panel Efficiency and Output
  1. Clean your solar panels regularly. ...
  2. Avoid shaded areas. ...
  3. Orient your solar panels for maximum exposure. ...
  4. Use monitoring tools to track performance. ...
  5. Insulate your home to prevent air leaks. ...
  6. Install solar batteries to store energy. ...
  7. Use different appliances at different times.
Jun 27, 2024

How do I maximize my solar charge? ›

To maximize the solar energy being absorbed by the panels, you must, if possible, have them tilted to: A 45-degree angle facing South if you are in the Northern hemisphere. A 45-degree angle facing North if you are in the Southern hemisphere.

Why are my solar lights not very bright? ›

The most common reason for dimming solar lights is that the rechargeable batteries are dying. If the battery is low, it's important to remove the battery right away. A defunct battery can erode, leak acid, and damage electrical components.

Are you supposed to leave solar lights on all the time? ›

If you want the outdoor solar light to continue to work all day every day, you can simply leave the on/off switch in the on position. If you want to charge the outdoor solar light and use the light at a later time (such as a weekend party), you can turn the on/off switch to off until you are ready to use it.

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