Best Solar String Lights For Garden & Outdoors

String lights and fairy lights are a unique way to turn any standard garden or backyard into a magical place for your whole family to enjoy—regardless of season and weather.

Of course, opting for solar-powered lights allows you to do something marvelous for both your outdoor area and the planet. However, picking the right type is crucial.

The best solar string lights for outdoors provide a run time of at least 6 hours per charge. They should also be water and weatherproof to be suitable for outdoor use. The best models include Brightech Ambience Pro Solar Powered Outdoor String Lights and MagicPro Solar String Lights. Both of them are very durable and highly rated. We recommend these to our users. You can also choose from the list of top solar string lights. They are,

1. Brightech Ambience Pro Solar Powered String Lights
2. Sunlitec Solar String Lights
3. MagicPro Solar String Lights
4. Brightown Outdoor Solar String Lights
5. AMIR Upgraded Solar Powered String Lights
6. PerfectDay Solar String Lights
7. Keshi Solar Star String Lights
8. Lalapao Solar String Lights
9. ER CHEN 30 Honeybees Solar Powered String Lights
10. GIGALUMI Hanging Solar Mason Jar Lid Lights

Below you will find all the best solar string lights models on the market and a concise buying guide that can help you make an informed choice if you prefer to shop at your local store. Let’s get started!

1. Brightech Ambience Pro Solar Powered String Lights

The Brightech Ambience Pro string lights are among the most popular solar-powered models on the market. These boast a charming Vintage Edison-bulb style that fits perfectly any garden or patio’s style without compromising budget or efficiency.

These bulbs are weatherproof and tested to withstand up to 50 mph (80 kph) winds, high temperatures (122°F or 50℃), rains, and snow. Additionally, the heavy-duty plastic that wraps each bulb is added as an extra layer of protection to increase the bulbs’ lifespan. So, you can set them up outdoors and enjoy the light throughout the year. 

Brightech Ambience Pro looks like incandescent Edison lights, but they boast a powerful LED technology that allows them to be extremely energy efficient and operate at lower—and safer—temperatures.

Nonetheless, you won’t need to compromise on style or light quality. Indeed, the warm white 3000K light produced by these bulbs is just as ambiance-making as one of the incandescent lights.

Lastly, these lights represent unparalleled value for money. Indeed, while being affordable, each string is 27ft (8.22m) long, boasting 12 bulbs located at 20in (50.8cm) distance from each other. The solar panel is located at a suitable distance of 6ft (183cm) from the first bulb, which allows you to position the solar panel out of sight and in a place where it receives the most sunlight.

2. Sunlitec Solar String Lights

Sunlitec is one of the best-renowned brands in the international lighting system, and its products range from indoor lights to industrial and outdoor bulbs. These solar string lights are some of the best ones on the market in terms of durability and energy efficiency. 

Their power backup of 4500mAH is much larger than the one usually fitted on solar-powered string lights and allows you to count on working outdoor lights even after a cloudy day! Indeed, when exposed to sunlight, these lights take around 5 to 6 hours to charge, providing a run time of approximately 8 to 10 hours. 

However, you also have the option to charge them through a USB port. This charging method allows you to enjoy your lights again in less than 4 hours. While you might not need to use the USB charging daily, it can be an excellent replacement on a rainy day. 

The strings are 27ft (8.22m) long and include 25 bulbs at a distance of 10in (25 cm) from each other. The light produced by these bulbs is 3000K or soft, warm white. 

These solar-powered string lights are versatile and elegant but designed to live through 50,000hrs of charge and use. Additionally, they are waterproof and shatterproof, and Salitec provides a 1-year warranty you can enjoy for free. 

In terms of installing these lights, the rubber strands make the job much more manageable, making these lights tangle-free.

3. MagicPro Solar String Lights

MagicPro Solar String Lights are a timeless solution for all gardens, patios, backyards, or outdoor areas. They can be used as an elegant decoration for a special event such as a wedding or gathering. Additionally, because of the bright light they emit, you can just use them as year-round illumination for your outdoor area. 

The strings, which are connectible for a seamless result, boast 15 LED bulbs each, with the solar panel located further from the first bulb, which allows you to hide the panel or locate it where it receives the most sunlight. 

These outdoor solar-powered lights also boast four modes: slow flash, quick flash, steady light, and pulsating light. You can switch from one lighting mode to another whenever you want, allowing you to create precisely the atmosphere you want. 

The solar panel can fully charge these lights’ batteries when exposed to continuous sunlight for 6 to 8 hours, producing 8 to 10 hours of light. Even in this case, if it has been a cloudy or overcast day, but you need to use the lights in the evening, you can make the most out of the USB charging option. 

While elegant and producing a vintage effect, the bulbs and string are highly technological and suitable for various conditions and climates. Indeed, they boast an IPX5 shatterproof and waterproof rating that allows you to use them all year round, independently from weather conditions and outdoor temperature.

4. Brightown Outdoor Solar String Lights

Brightown products are lighting solutions designed with the needs of garden—or patio owners in mind. They are affordable, versatile, easy to set up, and created to suit any outdoor area’s style.

These lights are UL/ETL certified, making them extremely safe for indoor and outdoor use. With each order, you will receive a 2-pack lighting system with a solar panel to power the lights. 

Each pack will have a 33ft (10m) copper string with 100 LED bulbs. The bulbs run on a low voltage of 2 volts and emit a soft-glow light suitable for most outdoor areas or gatherings.

One of the best aspects of these lights is the 8-mode system that allows you to set your lights on:

• Waves
• Fading
• Combinations
• Fireflies
• Chasing
• Twinkle
• Steady light
• Slowly-fading

Additionally, since the copper wire is foldable and durable, you can move, wrap, and unwrap your lights whenever possible. 

Regarding the solar panel’s specs, you should know that this is a Monocrystalline silicon solar panel, one of the most efficient ones on the market today. Alternatively, you can charge the batteries through an alternative USB port. 

These lights will need to charge in direct sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours during the day; then, they will automatically switch on when the sensors detect less sunlight (such as at sunset or on a cloudy day).

It is also worth noting that these lights’ IP65 rating makes them highly waterproof and resistant to heavy rains or strong winds. In any case, you can leverage the company’s 1-year warranty included in the purchase.

5. AMIR Upgraded Solar Powered String Lights

These lights are among the best ones if you are looking for a versatile and discreet solution to improve the lighting in the whole outside area. The strings boast 100 LED lights each, located at a distance of 3.93in (10cm) from each other. 

The copper wire that connects them becomes almost invisible at nighttime, which is perfect if you need a solution that won’t interfere with your area’s decor. 

The bulbs emit a warm white light, perfect for lighting the Christmas tree or adding a focal point to your patio. The IP65 rating tells us that these lights are waterproof and shatterproof, which means you can hang them all year around in your garden, independently from weather and weather conditions. 

6. PerfectDay Solar String Lights

PerfectDay lighting solutions are a beautiful addition to any backyard or Outdoors, whether you are looking for a vibrant decoration for your upcoming party or you need a long-lasting solution to illuminate that area functionally. 

The strings are 27ft (8.22m) long and boast 25 Led bulbs each. Multiple Solar Strings can be connected with each other. This feature can be useful if you need additional lights on your patio or to illuminate a larger area. 

The bulbs also boast rubber strand strings that ensure the lights are tangling-free. This feature makes it much easier to move the solar lights around or just set them up in the best location for your needs.

Some of the best features of these lights include:

• Four lighting modes (flash, steady light, slow flash, and pulsating light)
• 4500mAH backup battery that can reach a full charge in 5 hours
• Alternative USB charging options
• The bulbs are shatterproof and waterproof for increased durability.

7. Keshi Solar Star String Lights

If you wish to have a more exclusive alternative to standard solar string lights, these star-shaped bulbs can create exactly the atmosphere you want while offering you the highest standards in terms of energy efficiency and style.

Each of these solar-powered, 40ft-long (12m) string lights boasts 100 LED star-shaped bulbs ready to create a magical atmosphere anywhere you decide to set them up. The company tells us that these bulbs’ lifespan is around 30,000 hours, so you won’t need to replace the battery for many years to come!

Additionally, the upgraded solar panels charge the battery in around 6 hours and provide you with 8 to 12 hours of light throughout the evening. These lights are fully automated, and the lights will turn on as soon as the sun is setting. Just make sure to turn the button on the “on” setting when you wish to start charging the batteries.

Additionally, the IP65 rating certifies that these lights are waterproof, heatproof, and shatterproof, making them perfect to use in any environment. 

8. Lalapao Solar String Lights

These multi-colored lights are perfect for adding a little more fun to the decor of your garden or patio or for completing your Christmas tree. Lalapao is an innovative company ready to provide you with all the help you need throughout the process of setting up, moving or even replacing your lights. 

While these fairy lights won’t be extremely bright in a room, their purpose is more decorative. Within each order, you can enjoy two packs of solar string lights. Each string is 72ft (22m) long and yields 200 LED bulbs. When fully charged, these solar-powered lights are perfect for providing an environmentally-friendly lighting solution to any party for up to 10 hours at a time. 

Like the other best models on the market, these lights boast a certified IP65 waterproof and shatterproof rating, increasing the lights’ lifespan and durability in any environment. 

9. ER CHEN 30 Honeybees Solar Powered String Lights

Whether you wish to add a special touch to your small garden or transform a bland-looking patio into a magical place that is in harmony with the surrounding nature, these solar-powered honey bee-shaped lights are perfect for you. 

Just like the lights seen above, they are entirely powered by solar power, which means that they won’t impact your electricity bills. They might not provide the bright light you can enjoy with bulbs, but they can create a unique atmosphere. 

With just 7 to 9 hours of charge under direct sunlight, these honeybees come to life and brighten up your backyard from dusk to sunrise. Unlike many other models, they can be just as charming when they are off during the day. 

10. GIGALUMI Hanging Solar Mason Jar Lid Lights

For a more compact solution for your outdoor lighting system, you might opt for these mason jars, filled with very bright strings of LED bulbs, and topped with a small solar panel each. 

These mason jars are perfect if you are trying to give your driveway, garden, or patio a vintage, country vibe that is too difficult to achieve with more modern solutions. 

However, with individual panels powering the lights in each mason jar, you can set them up around the garden, ensuring that at least some receive the light needed to be fully charged at nighttime.

Solar String Lights for Outdoors: A Buying Guide

The models above are the best solar string lights for the outdoors on the market today. If you prefer to shop at your local store or explore other options that are not on this list, you can follow this concise buying guide to decide on the best product for your garden. 

Number of Bulbs

The number of lightbulbs included in the box of solar lights you have picked is a factor of extreme importance. Indeed, in this case, the price might be deceiving; regardless of it, you should ensure that the bulbs included are enough to light up your outdoor area. 

Essentially, a higher number of bulbs will help you cover a large surface area. If you are the owner of an extensive backyard or garden area you wish to light up, you might need to opt for more lights. 

Bulb Type

The solar-powered bulbs might come in different shapes and sizes depending on the type of lights you picked. While you will need to choose bulbs that enrich your outdoor area’s atmosphere, it is crucial to know what lighting options are available to you. 

In terms of systems, you should always opt for LED lights, as these are often the ones to offer you a longer lifespan and increased energy saving.

In terms of shapes and styles, you might opt for: 

• Fairy lights: These are the most common type of string lights, and they are often composed of small LED bulbs that don’t need any covering to be protected against the elements. Among the benefits of these lights is that they often support different modes (such as producing steady or twinkling lights).
• Edison bulb strings: These classic old-school light bulbs are ideal for creating an exclusive atmosphere in your garden. While they resemble classic light bulbs, the light source used is usually LEDs. This improves the bulbs’ durability and resistance.
• Lantern strings: These lights are ideal when you wish to enjoy a higher level of customizability. Indeed, you can leave empty space around them and wrap them with the material or color you prefer.
• Ropes: These are extremely common over Christmas and winter festivities, and small light bulbs constitute them. Usually, LEDs are wrapped in plastic. This allows them to withstand colder temperatures.

String Configuration

Once you are set on the type of light to have in your outdoor area and the light’s color, you can then focus on the string configuration. This is a crucial aspect to consider when picking string lights.

Depending on the string configuration, you can decorate your patio, garden, or outdoor area differently. Indeed, the string’s length, the distance between each bulb, and the number of bulbs along the strings might impact the overall look you are trying to give your patio. 

Additionally, if one string of lights is not enough to achieve the desired results, you might need to check that you can connect more than one Solar light string. Not all models allow for this opportunity, but some support the connection of multiple strings.

Run Time

Solar string lights can be an excellent way to decorate your outdoor area with environmentally friendly details. However, checking how long these lights will be able to illuminate your garden is crucial. 

Solar string lights need a minimum charge of about 6 hours. This refers to the time they are exposed to sunlight. They will automatically switch on around dusk when natural light becomes weaker. From this point, they will likely stay on for around 8 hours. 

Nonetheless, checking the box and instructions of your lights will allow you to know how long you can count on them illuminating your garden. Remember that this figure can change depending on the solar power specs (learn more below) and the amount of sunlight your outdoor area naturally receives.  

Solar Panels Specifications

Your string lights are powered by a solar panel, which can usually be fixed to the ground and act as your lights’ main energy source. Since the quality and type of solar panel you have picked will greatly influence the lights’ performance, it is essential to understand what works best.

Here are the characteristics to keep in mind:

• Charging time: This indicates how long the solar panel will need to be exposed to sunlight to illuminate your garden after sunset. The models seen above are those that can get your lights fully charged in less than 10 hours, but it is worth checking how many hours of sunlight your area receives.

• Dual Charging: If you have checked the power backup of your lights and the run time, they are likely to yield on a full charge; you have a clear idea of what to expect on a sunny day. However, your lights might not be able to charge on a cloudy or rainy day, thanks to just sunlight fully. In this case, having the option to charge them through a USB can help you use them even after a few cloudy days.
• Technology: In brief, solar panels are built on two technologies: Monocrystalline and Polycrystalline. Monocrystalline technologies are superior to Polycrystalline, yielding better performances and increased durability. However, they can be more expensive. You can find out more about the technology behind a solar panel in this video: 

• Best Flexible Solar Panels
• How do Solar panels work?
• Three types of Solar Panels
• How much do Solar Panels Cost?

Durability and Weatherproofing

Solar string lights for outdoors are not only beautiful and ambiance-making details. They are also extremely durable pieces of technology that will withstand most weather conditions, including rain, snow, dust, or heat. 

You might not require your lights to withstand all of these conditions: depending on the type of climate you live in, you will only need to worry about some specific conditions. Nonetheless, it is always worth checking what conditions suit your lights.

You can check your lights’ waterproof rating (IP or Ingress Protection Rating). Some good indicators include:

• IP65: An IP65 rating refers to the fact that the product is fully protected against dust and solid objects. Additionally, it can withstand water splashing and medium-strength jets from any angle.
• IP44: IP44 rating refers to the lights’ characteristic to be tested solid objects ingress again, even for items larger than 1mm. Additionally, it is protected against water splashing from all directions.
• IPX5: This only refers to a layer of protection against jest and splashes projected by a nozzle of 6.3mm (¼ inch) from any direction.
• Shatterproof: you should also check whether your lights are shatterproof. Of course, making sure that water, rain, or dust don’t penetrate or damage the lights is crucial. However, you also need to ensure that if they are shaken by the wind and hit nearby surfaces, the light bulbs won’t shutter—as this would create a significant safety hazard for you and your guests.

Conclusion

Solar string lights for your outdoor area are an excellent way to create a magical atmosphere in your garden or patio. Since they won’t require you to run them on electricity, they can be a kind choice for both the wallet and the environment. They also automatically come on at sunset, so you won’t need to remember to put them on or charge them. 

When selecting the best model for your garden, pay attention to the technology behind the solar panel, the string configuration, the number of bulbs included, weatherproofing ratings, and the lights’ run time. 

Sources

• Super Bright LEDs: UL and ETL Certifications: What Are They, and Why Should You Care?
• The Solar Advantage: 6 Tips To Make Solar Lights Last Longer – How Long Do They Last?
• Energy Sage: Monocrystalline and polycrystalline solar panels: what you need to know
• The Enclosure Company: IP-Rated Enclosures Explained
• Nostalgic Bulbs: Are Edison Bulbs LED Bulbs?