
Solar light has improved by leaps in the last few years. You can harness the sun’s power in your backyard, patio, or balcony. The location where you plan to hang your lights only needs a few hours each day of sunshine. They will do most of the work themselves.
LEDs powered by sunlight have many advantages. High-quality LED bulbs last longer than incandescent lights. Since they don’t require external outlets or wiring, they are much easier to install. They are highly efficient and add no cost to your electric bill. They may cost more upfront, but over five years (they should last for that long), you’ll only pay half what traditional bulbs would.
Best Overall
Pearlstar Vintage Solar Lamp
This light is a combination of style, character, and efficiency. The white Edison-style LED bulb gives it a vintage look perfect for decks and porches. Copper framing has a weather-resistant and waterproof finish, so leaving it in the rain or snow is safe.
It is slightly over 14 inches long with the handle or 8.5 inches without. The light has an automatic sensor that turns it off during the daylight and on at night. Whether you purchase a single light or several to frame your patio is a great conversation piece.
Best Motion Sensor Lights
Baxia Technology 28 LED solar motion sensor security wall lights.
These motion sensors can be used as security lights or spotlights. They provide peace of mind without buying expensive systems or running extra cables. Solar panels can convert up to 17% of their energy into 24 LEDs.
This sensor will illuminate the lights for 30 seconds if it detects movement up to 5 meters. The four lights in this pack are easily installed on any flat surface, fence post, or wall.
Best Path Light
Hampton Bay Solar Warm white Landscape Path Lights 10-Pack
The crackled look of these path lights is very sparkly and attractive at night. However, one tester noted that the style may need to be fixed at first glance. Despite their easy installation and excellent durability, Hampton Bay’s Solar Lights made our list. The lights worked well even after being hit by a ball and a freeze test. These lights are bright and of good value.
Best Fairy Lights
Brightown Solar Powered LED Fairy Lights
These fairy lights will not disappoint. Seven different colors are available, and each strand is 33 feet long. Each strand has 100 LED bulbs. Eight modes are available, such as waves, fireflies, and twinkle.
The rotating panel allows you to point the light at the sun quickly. The lights should last six to ten hrs after a full recharge. The lights have an IP65 weather rating, and they performed well even after being exposed to freezing temperatures.
Best String Lights
Brightech Ambiance Pro Solar String Lighting
The style of miniature Edison bulbs will enhance any room. This 27-foot LED light string will create a warm, soft ambiance for any outdoor area. These are some of the strongest, most durable, and weatherproof string lights. They also feature shatterproof S14 bulbs to be left up all year round.
A 3-year warranty also covers the lights. They performed well in our durability test. Lights can last for up to 6 hours with a single battery charge. The bulbs, although plastic, look good and feel high quality. The only downside is that multiple strings cannot connect these lights.
Best Step Lights
Bell + Howell Solar-Powered LED Pathway Lighting Pack
Another LED light that doesn’t require an on/off button. The LED lights are flush with the ground and shine upwards. The initial switch is turned on, and the spike is pushed into the ground. A light sensor automatically turns on the stainless steel lights at dusk and then off again at dawn.
Each light is 4.5 inches in diameter and offers 10 hours of illumination on a full battery. These lights are easy to move and can be placed anywhere. These lights are perfect for pathways, gardens, and stairs. You can even take them camping. The lights are suitable for lighting walkways but could be better for lighting trees or taller landscape features.
Best Wall Lights
Greluna outdoor solar wall lights
Another one with color options built in. Choose from six different colors or the warm white (3000 Kelvin).
The individual lights (in a set of eight) are only 4.7″ long by 3.5″ wide. The built-in battery is robust, with 1.2 volts and 600 milliamps. The light can remain lit for up to 8 hours after six hours of sun exposure. They are stylish, quick, and easy to install.