Homeowners seeking a sustainable and eco-friendly way to illuminate their outdoor spaces look no further than solar lights. These innovative lights harness the power of the sun, eliminating reliance on traditional electricity and reducing your carbon footprint. This guide explores the top 3 features to consider when selecting the best outdoor solar lights for your needs: number of LEDs, Wide lighting angle, and brightness. Whether you’re illuminating a cozy patio or a sprawling driveway, discover the perfect lights to enhance your outdoor space while embracing sustainability.
- Number of LEDs: It determines the intensity and coverage of the light. High-performing models boast a range of LEDs, typically ranging from 10 to 100 or more. More LEDs often translate to increased brightness and a wider illuminated area, ensuring enhanced visibility in your outdoor spaces.
- Wide Lighting Angle: It ensures that your desired area is evenly illuminated. Top-tier outdoor solar lights offer expansive lighting angles, spanning from 90 to 270 degrees. A wider angle ensures broader coverage, effectively lighting up larger spaces and providing better visibility around your home.
- Brightness: These lights usually have brightness measured in lumens, ranging from 100 to 1000 or more. Higher lumen counts signify brighter illumination, making them ideal for areas that require intense lighting, such as driveways or pathways.
Whether you’re looking for enhanced security, ambient lighting, or functionality in your outdoor spaces, the best outdoor solar lights with enough LEDs, wide lighting angles, and impressive brightness levels provide reliable and eco-conscious lighting solutions. Discover expert tips and insights in our comprehensive “Buying Guide” for selecting the perfect outdoor solar lights!
Best Outdoor Solar Lights Table
| Best Outdoor Solar Lights | No. of Led's | Wide Lighting Angle | Brightness | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hmcity Outdoor Solar Lights | 120 | 270° | 60 Lumens | Check On Amazon Check On eBay |
| Aootek New Solar Lights | 120 | 270° | 450 Lumens | Check On Amazon Check On eBay |
| AmeriTop Solar Lights Outdoor | 128 | 270° | 800 Lumens | Check On Amazon Check On eBay |
| SEZAC Solar Lights Outdoor | 42 | 120° | 80 - 100 Lumens | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| InnoGear Solar Lights Outdoor | 4 | 90° | 600 Lumens | Check On Amazon Check On eBay |
| URPOWER Outdoor Solar Lights | 4 | 90° | 200 Lumens | Check On Amazon Check On eBay |
| Tuffenough Outdoor Solar Lights | 210 | 270° | 2500 Lumens | Check On Amazon Check On eBay |
| Ollivage Solar Lights Outdoor | 30 | 360° | 500 Lumens | Check On Amazon Check On eBay |
| LELSTAR Outdoor Solar Lights | 268 | 120° | 4000 Lumens | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| NYMPHY Outdoor Solar Lights | 56 | 120° | 400 Lumens | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
Best Outdoor Solar Lights Reviews
1. Hmcity Outdoor Solar Lights
The outdoor solar lights from the brand Hmcity are suitable for people who are looking for high quality guaranteed products.
This product comes in a pack of two solar lights with three different lighting modes that include security, permanent and smart brightness control. Each light has adopted monocrystalline silicon solar cells which have high conversion rate that is up to 20.5%.
Each solar light has 120 LED upgraded high power LEDs which ensure excellent wide lighting angle and excellent illumination coverage. These lights come with IP65 technology which makes them waterproof. Apart from that, its construction makes it weather-resistant and heatproof.
Notable Features:
- Has three lighting modes – security, smart brightness and permanent
- High conversion rate up to 20.5%
- 120 degrees sensing angle
Pros:
- Pack of two solar lights
- Easy to install
- Value for money
- Nice and bright
Cons:
- Motion sensors are not up to the mark
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2. Aootek New Solar Lights
AootekSolar lights are made of ABS. It may not look very stylish, but it is one of the best in the market.
It has 3 optional modes. The first one is security light mode, the second one is all night mode, and 3rd one is smart brightness control mode. It has one of the most advanced motion sensor detectors with a greater PIR sensor that is capable of detecting people from 26 feet within a 120-degree angle.
The lights are ultra-bright, and it has a rechargeable 2200 mAh lithium-ion battery. The solar panels are high efficiency. The conversion rate is 20.5%. It is IP65 waterproof and capable of withstanding the harshest weather conditions.
Notable Features:
- 3 distinct modes
- Sensitive PIR Motion Indicator
- Ultra-bright light
- IP65 waterproofing
Pros:
- Motion Sensors are built-in
- A wide array of LEDs
- IP65 water resistance
- 2200mAh battery
Cons:
- Not the most attractive looking solar lights on the market
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3. AmeriTop 128 LED Solar Lights Outdoor
Ameritop is a professional company that deals with indoor and outdoor LED lights. The company’s aim is to provide highly efficient, eco-friendly and long lasting lighting options to the customers.
In its outdoor lighting range, this LED solar light has caught our attention as its enormous brightness is far brighter than other similar LEDs. This is due to the presence of 128 bright LEDs and three heads that can produce up to 800 lumens, 6500K highly bright light output. The lighting is sufficient enough to provide clear vision for up to 27 feet.
The three heads are adjustable and can be moved upwards, downwards and also horizontally. So, they can provide up to 270 degrees wide lighting, eliminating the trouble for you to install extra lights.
Importantly, these heads have motion sensors that can sense any movement up to 27 feet. So, you can use these lights for gardens, parking areas, entrance, driveways and patios.
Also, the lights will turn ON only when there’s movement and in the remaining time they remain OFF. So, you will save much of the battery power.
Speaking of batteries, these solar lights have a 2200 mAH lithium ion battery that lasts longer than expected.
Notable Features:
- Automatic turn off after 30 seconds of no movement detection.
- Polycrystalline silicon solar panels can be used even in winter.
- Made of ABS material and has IP65 waterproof coating to withstand extreme weathers.
Pros:
- Easy installation without wires and adapters.
- Easily adjustable heads.
- Bright lighting.
- Affordable.
Cons:
- Nothing specific to mention.
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4. SEZAC Solar Lights Outdoor
The SEZAC is excellent. The design is different, but it is equipped with 42 LED lights, and it is one of the best outdoor solar lights in the market.
It has 3 intelligent lighting modes. The first one is a dim long light mode, the second one is light sensor mode, and 3rd one is motion sensor mode. It has a powerful motion sensor ball that detects people up to 10-16 feet.
The lights are ultra-bright, and it has a rechargeable 2000 mAh lithium-ion battery that allows it to illuminate for a long period. It has an IP65 waterproofing.
Notable Features:
- 3 intelligent lighting modes
- Ultra-bright light
- IP65 waterproofing
Pros:
- Motion Sensors are built-in
- 42 LED lights
- IP65 water resistance
- 2000 mAh battery
Cons:
- Not good in dense fog
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5. InnoGear Solar Lights Outdoor
Our 3rd pick is from InnoGear. It is a very different looking outdoor solar light made of ABS plastic and high-efficiency Monocrystalline. It is also a 2-in-1 light.
This outdoor solar light has independently adjustable light and panel. The panel can be rotated up to 180 degrees and the light-head up to 90 degrees. It has 2 different modes available. In the high mode, it runs for 6 hours, and in the low mode, it runs for 12 hours. Due to its Monocrystalline solar panels, the energy conversion rate is 30% faster.
Installation is simple, and it is resistant to jet water. It comes with a 2200 mAh rechargeable Lithium-ion battery.
Notable Features:
- 2 working modes
- 2-in-1 solar light
- Resistant to jet water
Pros:
- 2-in-1 application
- Modern design
- 2200 mAh battery
Cons:
- Not good for bad weather
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6. URPOWER Outdoor Solar Lights
URPOWER’s, these lights merge solar efficiency with durable performance, offering long-lasting brilliance while saving both energy and money. Whether you aim to accentuate your garden path, porch, or driveway, these versatile spotlights seamlessly blend functionality with stylish design. Featuring a versatile 2-in-1 design, these lights can be effortlessly wall-mounted or staked into the ground, adapting flawlessly to your specific needs. Their dusk-to-dawn automation ensures hassle-free operation by automatically activating at dusk and providing up to 6-9 hours of illumination after a full charge.
Customize your lighting experience with adjustable brightness settings, allowing you to select between high or low settings to suit your desired ambiance. Crafted to withstand the elements, these IP64 waterproof lights guarantee year-round use in any weather conditions, ensuring durability and consistent performance. Each spotlight hosts 4 powerful LEDs, collectively emitting 200 lumens of cool white light, effectively illuminating your chosen space. Installation is easy there’s no need for wiring or complex setup.
From yards to stairs, garages to front porches, decks, walkways, driveways, camping sites, pathways, fences, walls, landscapes, grass areas, gardens, and more, these spotlights cater to various outdoor spaces. They offer both functionality and aesthetic appeal, transforming any outdoor area into a beautifully lit and welcoming space. These represent a smart, efficient, and versatile lighting solution that not only enhances your outdoor space but also contributes to a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle.
Notable Features:
- 2-in-1 Design wall mount or stake options
- Dusk-to-Dawn Automation
- Adjustable Brightness with High or low settings
- IP64 waterproof rating
- 4 Powerful LEDs emit 200 lumens of cool white light
- Easy Installation
Pros:
- Versatile lighting for various outdoor spaces
- Efficient solar-powered operation
- Durable and weather-resistant design
- Customizable brightness settings
- Simple, hassle-free installation
Cons:
- Limited angle adjustment for optimal lighting direction
7. Tuffenough Outdoor Solar Lights
Tuffenough’s, high-performance lights are tailored with an array of cutting-edge features, making them the ultimate choice for illuminating expansive outdoor spaces like courtyards, garages, swimming pools, and more. Featuring an impressive 210 super-bright LEDs per light, they collectively emit a powerful 2500 lumens of cool white light, ensuring exceptional clarity and visibility across large areas. It has comprehensive coverage and enhanced security with a 270° wide angle and a 26-foot sensing distance. The lights activate automatically upon detecting movement, and their adjustable heads enable you to personalize the light’s direction for optimized illumination.
Convenience meets customization with the included remote control, allowing you to manage the lights effortlessly from a distance. Tailor your lighting experience with three modes: strong light sensor mode, dim light sensor mode, or strong long light mode, adapting to your specific needs. Powered by a robust 2000mAh rechargeable battery and a high-efficiency solar panel, these lights offer enduring operation. They recharge during the day, ensuring hassle-free nighttime illumination.
Built to withstand the elements, their IP65 waterproof design ensures durability in harsh weather conditions, enabling year-round use. Their wireless, user-friendly design facilitates easy installation without the hassle of wires or batteries. This solar motion sensor lights represent a sophisticated yet practical lighting solution, combining powerful brightness, wide coverage, versatile modes, and durable construction.
Notable Features:
- 210 super-bright LEDs, 2500 lumens
- 270° wide angle, 26ft motion detection
- Remote control, 3 lighting modes
- 2000mAh rechargeable battery
- IP65 waterproof, wireless design
Pros:
- Exceptionally bright illumination
- Wide coverage, adjustable heads
- Convenient remote control
- Long-lasting, efficient power
- Durable, all-weather build
Cons:
- Shorter-than-expected battery life
8. Ollivage Solar Lights Outdoor
The Ollivage solar lights have an excellent motion sensor that rotates 360 degrees, and the dual head spotlight comes with 30 LEDs.
The solar lights get activated automatically at night. It has 2 modes. It is usually on the DIM mode for the entire night but becomes brighter when motion is detected. It has good coverage and can be rotated 360 degrees.
The lights are super-bright, and it has a rechargeable 2200 mAh lithium-ion battery that allows it to illuminate for a long period. It has an IP65 waterproofing.
Notable Features:
- 2 working modes
- Super-bright
- IP65 Waterproof
Pros:
- 360-degree rotation
- Super-bright
- IP65 waterproofing
- 2200mAh battery
- 30 LED lights
Cons:
- The motion sensor is not very reliable.
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9. LELSTAR Outdoor Solar Lights with 268 LEDs
LECLSTAR is a global brand which focuses on building and creating new tech-infused home products to provide a delightful experience to customers.
This outdoor solar light from the brand comes with a single head with 268 LEDs in it that provide an illumination of up to 1800 lumens. So, this single piece solar light is efficient enough to spread the lighting for up to 26 feet. This means you can use it for surveillance of pathways, backyards or any outdoors that need protection.
It comes with a lithium battery with a whopping capacity of 4400 mAH. So, it can work all night without stopping. So, we feel this can be installed where you keep your security camera for seamless monitoring of your house proximity.
Moreover, the PIR motion sensor detects any motion within its range and automatically turns on the light. When there’s no motion, it automatically turns off within 30 seconds.
Notable Features:
- Bright lighting of 1800 lumens for clear visibility of strangers.
- Wide lighting angle of 120 degrees.
- Pure silicon solar panels decrease the charging time of the battery from 8 hours to 4 hours.
- Lifetime warranty.
Pros:
- Easy to install with only the given 2 screws.
- Great illumination.
- Easy to use.
Cons:
- Nothing specific to mention.
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10. NYMPHY Outdoor Solar Lights
NYMPHY’s eco-friendly lights redefine convenience by harnessing solar power to brighten your garden, yard, or any outdoor space. Depend solely on the sun for vibrant, long-lasting illumination, liberating you from electrical constraints and wiring hassles. Featuring 56 powerful LED bulbs per light, these fixtures emit a crystal-clear, cool white light, effectively illuminating your chosen area. Tailor brightness with three modes: low light (20 hours), medium light (10 hours), or high light (6 hours), effortlessly adjusted based on your needs. The intelligent solar panel seamlessly shifts between charging and lighting modes based on ambient light conditions.
Crafted from high-strength ABS plastic, these lights are built tough to withstand rain, snow, frost, and extreme temperatures, ensuring year-round reliability. Enhanced by an IP68 waterproof rating, they remain resilient against various weather elements. Equipped with high-efficiency polycrystalline silicon solar panels, these lights boast a 20% efficiency rate, ensuring extended and brighter illumination compared to standard solar lights. Installation flexibility reigns supreme easily set them up as landscape spotlights with stakes or wall lights using screws. An anti-fogging lens preserves light intensity and extends the lights’ lifespan.
Simplicity meets functionality with a user-friendly push-button operation for mode selection. It comes with a 45-day full refund policy and a reassuring 12-month warranty. Illuminate gardens, yards, driveways, patios, decks, walkways, and more with these versatile, eco-conscious solar landscape lights.
Notable Features:
- 56 LED bulbs per light
- 3 brightness modes: low, medium, high
- Weatherproof ABS plastic, IP68 rating
- High-efficiency solar panels
- Versatile installation options
Pros:
- Vibrant, clear illumination
- Customizable brightness settings
- Durable in harsh weather
- Efficient, long-lasting power
- Easy installation choices
Cons:
- Occasional issues with mode switching
Buying guide Features For The Best Outdoor Solar Lights
1. No.of LEDs
The number of LEDs in outdoor solar lights determines their brightness and coverage. Lights with more LEDs, like those with 100 or more, emit brighter light and cover larger areas effectively. For instance, some models boast up to 200 LEDs, ensuring powerful illumination for expansive outdoor spaces. Higher LED counts often mean increased brightness and better visibility without needing additional energy sources.
2. Wide Lighting Angle
The wide lighting angle in outdoor solar lights determines how broadly the light spreads. Lights with a wide angle, such as 120 to 270 degrees, cover more ground, illuminating larger areas effectively. For example, some models offer a wide 270-degree angle, ensuring enough coverage for gardens or pathways. A broader angle means better visibility across your outdoor space, enhancing safety and security without requiring multiple light installations.
3. Brightness
It is measured in lumens, indicating how intense the light is. Lights with higher lumens, like those reaching 1000 or more, emit brighter light. For instance, some models boast 800 lumens, offering powerful illumination for driveways or pathways. Higher brightness ensures clearer visibility in outdoor spaces, making them ideal for areas needing intense lighting without relying on conventional power sources.
4. Battery Capacity
It determines their runtime and efficiency. Lights with higher capacities, like 2000mAh or more, ensure longer operation after charging. For instance, some models feature 4000mAh batteries, offering extended illumination throughout the night. Higher capacities mean sustained performance, allowing lights to store more solar energy for extended use, ensuring reliable lighting without relying on constant sunlight for recharging.
5. Power Source
The power source for outdoor solar lights is sunlight, converted into electricity through solar panels. These lights rely solely on the sun, storing energy in built-in batteries for nighttime use. Some models may also feature backup batteries or USB charging options for additional power sources. However, the primary source remains solar energy, ensuring eco-friendly and cost-effective illumination without relying on traditional electricity grids or constant battery replacements.
6. Controller Type
The controller type in outdoor solar lights manages their operation and functionality. Lights may feature simple on/off switches or more advanced controllers, regulating brightness levels or motion sensing. For instance, some lights have dusk-to-dawn sensors, automatically turning on at night. Others offer remote controls for customizable settings. Various controllers ensure lights adapt to specific needs, providing options like motion sensors, timers, or brightness adjustments, enhancing convenience and efficiency in outdoor lighting.
7. Material
The material of outdoor solar lights determines their durability and weather resistance. Lights often use sturdy materials like ABS plastic or aluminum alloy, ensuring resilience against elements like rain, snow, or heat. For instance, some models feature high-strength ABS plastic for weatherproofing, while others use corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy for longevity. Robust materials safeguard lights from damage, allowing for year-round outdoor use without deterioration or susceptibility to harsh weather conditions.
8. Brightness Modes
Bright modes in outdoor solar lights offer various lighting options for different needs. Lights may include modes like high, medium, or low brightness settings. For example, some models feature modes for strong or dim light sensing, adapting to ambient conditions. Others offer extended illumination with a constant bright mode. These modes provide flexibility in adjusting brightness levels, catering to diverse scenarios such as security, ambiance, or energy conservation, enhancing versatility in outdoor lighting.
Solar Light Maintenance
Maintaining a solar light is a simple and easy task, which you have to perform a couple of times a year. Here are a few guidelines on its regular maintenance.
- Regularly check the solar panel. Irrespective of its size (small or big), one has to clean the panel to make it free of dust and debris.
- For a thorough cleaning of the panel, simply hose it off to clear loose material. Then use soapy water and a soft-bristled brush to clean the panel. Rinse off carefully that no soap scum remains, and completely dry them by using a towel.
- After cleaning the panels, ensure that sunlight is hitting properly on them. Trim back overhanging bushes or excess foliage on trees that block sunlight from hitting the panel.
- Check out the protective shield around the LED along with its inside reflectors (if any) and ensure it is clean and aids in better illumination.
- If you observe the solar lights are running on for a shorter time every night, then you have to check your battery connection. For this, remove the batteries and test them to check them for any damages or corrosion. If needed, then replace these inexpensive lights with new ones.
- Upon regular usage, the batteries will slowly wear down. Generally, rechargeable batteries won’t last forever and thereby its storage capacity will less fractionally with each solar charge. So, replace them if necessary.
Benefits of Using Solar Outdoor Lights
Here is the list of benefits that we get by using solar-powered outdoor lights.
- No Messy Wires – There are no wires required for the installation of these solar lights. A few models need a cable from the solar panel to light. So, it is safer, easy to install and attractive without messy wires.
- Wide Variety of Styles – There are wide varieties of solar lights available in different patterns like lamps, lanterns, string lights, bulb lights, street lamps, or uniquely designed novelty lights (for elegant garden parties). So, choose them as per your need.
- Easy Arrangement – These solar-powered lights offer ease of arrangement/move, especially when their placement is not right. You can easily move the lanterns, lights, lamps or security lights within less time and effort.
- Eco-Friendly – They use the natural source (sun’s UV rays) to create the essential energy used to power up various lighting options. They won’t require any electricity and thus considered energy-efficient and eco-friendly.
- Low Maintenance – The maintenance of these solar lights are simple and easy. All you need is to regularly clean the panel/solar cells after their installation and usage. Thus, it is quite a great option for people with busy schedules.
- Easy to Install – The solar powered outdoor lights are easy to install. Simply, unpack them and put them in a location where you desire to have these lights. One can hang from a shepherd’s hook in the yard, mounted to a garage wall or staked along the driveway.
- Cost-Effective – The high lumen path lights, deck lamps, or garage lights won’t need much investment, as they cost the same as standard outdoor lights (mostly under $50). Coming to its installation, it is simple to do without hiring an electrician. Also, it runs with power, which is free of cost (natural sunlight yet not electricity).
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: Generally, the battery of outdoor solar lights will last for about 3 – 4 years before you need to replace it. One can find replacement batteries sold by some brands, while the others need to purchase a whole new fixture. Regular cleaning of the panels and protecting the solar lights from harsh weather will help to increase their lifespan.
Ans: Outdoor solar lights come with various essential components, that includes a rechargeable battery, solar cell, photoresistor, and a light bulb. They simply work by grabbing solar energy from the daylight on the solar panel. Here its solar cell will convert the sun’s rays into electricity and store them in the battery. Its photoresistor detects the light absence at night and switches on the light automatically. The light will remain on still either the photoresistor detects lights in the morning (sunshine) or the battery runs out.
Ans: Yes, solar lights work irrespective of the weather conditions. We observe all solar lights are weatherproof up to some degree, yet some lights are made more durable than others. Simply, check out the IP of your solar light to know how durable it is. As it will let you know how effectively it works against liquids (water) and solids (dust).
Ans: The solar lights have to collect more sunlight to store more energy in their batteries. Thus, they lit longer at night. So, they have to be placed in a location where direct sunlight hits for several hours during the daytime. Some solar lights still work on cloudy days or indirect light yet they won’t collect as much energy and won’t stay/illuminate for a long time.
Ans: It is quite useful in the evening time when the sun goes down, which makes you unable to see thing properly without any lighting source. But why outdoor solar lights, and what makes them different from other lighting sources. Let’s check it out.
*It would be quite a complex process to wire a yard. So, the usage of solar lights will let you install anywhere in the yard, where normal lighting is not possible. All you need is to pick a sunny area and place them there for its effective working.
*Do you like to spend most of your evening time in the garden? Then regular lights will consume more power (electricity). If you use solar lights all around your yard, then it reduces your power bill, as it powers itself with natural sunlight.
*The solar-powered path lights will mark the way with its solar pavers or bricks, which allows you to create travel pathways. It is a safe path to go through the yard at night (or at dusk).
*Motion sensing solar lights is the best option for your safety and security, as they deter large animals and criminals. These lights will turn on only when they detect any movement, so a sudden shining of light will scar people and make them go away.
*With the availability of a vast array of solar lights option, it would let you place a solar lantern in a prime seating area or decorate with strings of solar lights. This will help to live up to the night-time environment.
Conclusion
So, there is a wide range of options available when it comes to purchasing. While street lights are expensive, they are bright and will stay lit up for the entire night. The security lights are also good, and they are cheap too. But go for them, only if you need them. The security lights usually stay dim-lit and get brighter only when someone is around.
So, depending on these discussions and the recommended products, it will be easier for you to select an outdoor solar light that suits your need the most. But if still are struggling, unable to be specific, then let us recommend 3 choices for you.
- You should look deeper into the Aootek lights. They are available at an affordable price. The look may not be to your liking, but it has IP65 waterproofing, 3 different modes, and ultra-bright lights with an advanced built-in motion sensor.
- Our second pick is the solar lights from InnoGear. These are water-resistant lights with an attractive design and 2 working modes.
- Our last pick is the solar lights from AmeriTop 128 LED Solar Lights Outdoor. The installation might be a bit too complicated for some people, but these are excellent lights. It has a unique 3-sided illumination design with 270-degree exposure, and of course, it has IP65 certification.
One Response
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