The Best Solar String Lights

There’s something enchanting about stepping outside and seeing your yard bathed in a warm, twinkling glow. Solar string lights add instant charm and turn everyday outdoor spaces into cozy spots for evening hangouts, late-night chats, or romantic dinners under the stars. We tested bestselling models in our own yards and found a favorite: the Brightech Ambience Pro, which caught our attention with its heavy-duty build and attractive vintage look.

You can drape solar string lights across your pergola, wrap them around tree trunks, or suspend them above your patio to effortlessly elevate your backyard’s ambiance—no outlet required. Compared to standard outdoor string lights, solar-powered options are useful if you don’t have a conveniently placed electrical outlet. They’re also an energy-efficient option because solar panels don’t add to your electricity bill. 

With that in mind, keep reading for our tips on selecting the best solar string lights for your outdoor space and to find out the pros and cons of the ones we tested.

1. BEST OVERALL: Brightech Ambience Pro Solar String Lights
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Brightown 60 LED Flower Solar String Lights
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3. BEST BISTRO STYLE: 17 Stories Outdoor Solar String Lights
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4. BEST WATERPROOF: MagicPro Waterproof Heavy-Duty Solar String Lights
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5. BEST FOR COLOR: Usokyo Outdoor Waterproof 2-Pack Solar String Lights
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6. BEST WITH REMOTE: Daybetter Outdoor Waterproof Solar String Lights
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7. BEST WITH BRASS SOCKET: Brightech Glow LED Edison Bulb Solar String Lights
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Solar String Lights Comparison

Our Top Picks

We tested the following solar string lights with key features like length, brightness, bulb style, and runtime. These picks offer a variety of choices for a top-notch string of solar lights that will suit your needs, style, and budget. 

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Light Quality 4.6/5; Appearance 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.3/5 

Featuring 12 bulbs each spaced 20 inches apart, this set’s Edison-style LED bulbs have a vintage look and last 5 to 6 hours on a full charge. A 6-foot wire connects to the solar panel to allow for placement in the sunniest location, and the solar panel only needs 6 hours of direct sunlight to fully charge. The bulbs are protected with shatterproof plastic shells that resist heat up to 122 degrees Fahrenheit.

We were impressed by the heavy-duty feel and classic appearance. Although we had to use a few extra fasteners to hang them in order to eliminate unwanted sagging, we preferred the sturdy feel and refined look of this LED light set for a semipermanent patio or deck installation. And we appreciated the ability to easily replace broken or burnt-out bulbs individually.

From an operational standpoint, the large solar panel was a nice addition. It easily recharged the battery over the course of a single sunny day, providing enough electricity for the advertised 5 to 6 hours of runtime. Also, in testing, we noted an important but subtle difference between this light set and some of the others we tested: this solar panel had a sliding on/off switch that made it much easier to know the status of the lights, compared to those with push-button switches. The panel included an adjustable-angle mounting bracket with built-in options for mounting on a ground stake, onto a squeeze clamp, or onto other surfaces via a screw mount. 

This is an elegant light set that offers heavy-duty hardware, bright light for the advertised 6-hour runtime, and installation flexibility to adjust to your needs. Measuring 27 feet long and featuring just 12 bulbs, one string may not be enough for a complete patio installation, but it’s a great starting point, and the price is right for adding on more as needed.

What our tester says: “This was a really nice-looking light set with plenty of installation flexibility, providing bright light for the advertised 6-hour runtime and equipped with heavy-duty hardware for a long working life.”—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer

Read our full review: Brightech Ambience Pro Solar String Lights

Get the Brightech Ambience solar string lights at Amazon, The Home Depot, Target, Oriental Trading, or Brightech.

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Light Quality 4.5/5; Appearance 5/5; Durability 4.5/5; Value 5/5

Brightown’s 60-bulb LED flower-type fairy string lights are proof you don’t have to spend a lot to cultivate a magical ambience in your evening landscape. We wound the Brightown solar string lights around a post and placed the small solar panel on the ground where it would receive a full day of sunlight.

The set of solar fairy lights also comes with clips for hanging on trees, clotheslines, or wires. We were able to turn the lights on and off and scroll through eight color modes that included slow-fade, blinking, alternating bulb lighting, and a solid glow. 

The plastic flowers that surround the 60 tiny bulbs are made from flexible plastic, so they didn’t break when we accidentally dropped the lights off a second-story patio. While these small string lights don’t illuminate a large area (they’re not made to do that), they’re designed to create a magical feel, and in our testing, they came on at dusk and stayed on until dawn—long after some of the more expensive strings went dark. 

For the best design effect, consider using two or more strings of these whimsical solar string lights to create a focal point. These are on the small side for solar landscape lighting, but they make excellent accent lights. 

What our tester says: “I really got a kick out of these flower-style solar fairy lights. They were absolutely enchanting, and for the price, they were a great bargain.”—Glenda Taylor, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Brightown solar string lights at Amazon. 

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Light Quality 4.3/5; Appearance 4.5/5; Durability 4/5; Value 4/5

The delicate filaments inside the 17 Stories solar-powered string lights offer classic appeal, and we were impressed with how well-made and durable the lights were. 

We strung them atop a courtyard wall for testing. During an especially strong spring thunderstorm, they were pelted with large hail and blown off the wall. But they were none the worse for the experience. That was impressive. The sizeable solar panel absorbed enough sunlight to keep the lights lit longer than their advertised 6 hours—we found them still lit after 7 hours.

This string comes with 12 warm white Edison-style bulbs, making it a good choice for hanging from a covered patio or stringing along the rafters of a pergola. The bulbs didn’t provide enough illumination to read a book, but they allowed us to see one another clearly while chatting on the back patio. 

If you’re looking for more illumination, try hanging two or more strings in close proximity. We also think these would be perfect strung under a patio umbrella for a romantic evening dinner. 

Get the 17 Stories solar string lights at Wayfair. 

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Light Quality 4.3/5; Appearance 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.5/5

If you’re looking for a set of solar string lights with solid acrylic bulbs, look no further than this set of two outdoor waterproof string lights, which together cover a whopping 110 feet, making them well-suited for decorating outdoor trees or providing ample illumination for a sitting area. 

We liked that the solid bulbs were permanently attached to the cord, as this meant we didn’t have to worry about a bulb falling out. Tiny air bubbles in the bulbs created a festive effect and a sparkly inner glow. 

We strung the lights around a pine tree, and when dusk came, they lit up in a rainbow of colors and stayed lit until morning. The solar panel comes with a stake for securing in the ground. We were able to select from eight modes, including rapid flashing, slow fade-in and fade-out, and alternate bulb lighting. 

With two strings of lights, you’ll have enough to cover larger entertainment areas, and no tools are needed—these lights are ready to go right out of the box. 

Get these Usokyo solar string lights from Amazon. 

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Light Quality 4/5; Appearance 4/5; Durability 4/5; Value 4/5

A few splashes shouldn’t put the damper on this versatile set of string lights from MagicPro thanks to an excellent waterproofing rating of IPX5, meaning it can withstand even strong water jets. Capable of being charged via solar power or with a micro-USB cable, both indoors and outdoors, these lights feature a string length of 44 feet, with 15 charming Editson-style LED bulbs running the length. If that isn’t long enough for you, you’ll be pleased to know that you can buy multiple sets and connect the strands to each other.

The solar panel and integrated rechargeable battery take 6 to 8 hours of continuous sunlight to charge completely, after which point they can power the lights for up to 8 hours. The lights have four modes: steady, slow flash, quick flash, and pulsating. The solar light bulbs are also shatterproof. 

We installed the MagicPro waterproof solar string lights over an outdoor seating area by attaching them to overhead tree branches with cable ties. Each bulb fixture had its own hang loop, making it easy to secure the lights. 

We liked that the S14 bulbs were replaceable, and the overall construction of this set felt substantial, much like our Best Overall pick. However, the lights were spaced 34 inches apart along the wire, reducing the overall lighting effect. Those with a large outdoor space to light will appreciate the spread lighting effect, but they might consider adding supplemental lights where added brightness is needed.

Get the MagicPro solar string lights at Amazon.

Our Ratings: Installation 5/5; Light Quality 4.5/5; Appearance 5/5; Durability 4/5; Value 4.8/5

The bulbs of the Daybetter solar string lights are so crystal clear that they look like real glass, which is great, considering that in reality, they’re made of affordable, shatterproof plastic. The string is 50 feet long and features 25 Edison-style bulbs, plus one more in the box in case a replacement is needed. 

Each bulb comes with its own hook, so all we had to do was slip the hooks over an overhead cord and the lights were ready to go. They emitted a soft ambient glow that we found perfect for garden patios and even camp setups. It’s an atmospheric glow rather than one suitable for task lighting, so it’s better for relaxing and conversation than for reading. 

The Daybetter lights came with a large 3W solar panel that charged quickly (even on partly cloudy days). The lights provided full illumination all night long. 

An unusual but appreciated perk was an included remote control. We were able to turn the lights on and off using the remote, but we had to be within about 25 feet for the remote to work. That would be handy for someone who needed to turn the lights off before morning, but we enjoyed letting them come on at dusk and go off at dawn. 

Get the Daybetter solar string lights at Amazon. 

Our Ratings: Installation 4/5; Light Quality 5/5; Appearance 4/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.3/5

Brightech’s Glow range of Edison-bulb LED solar string lights includes many of the same features as our Best Overall pick, but with the addition of attractive brass bulb sockets. Featuring 12 bulbs and a 28-foot length, this set is built for all-weather, all-season use with shatterproof bulbs and a commercial-grade rubberized cord. They emit warm white light for up to 6 hours per charge.

The Brightech Glow solar string lights performed very well in our tests. This selection features closely spaced (20 inches) Edison-style LEDs, which makes them a great choice for linear applications. And we really liked the look of the brass sockets. The system charged and ran as advertised and lit the space very well. The bulbs were replaceable, which isn’t always the case, and the whole package felt sturdy and durable. We also liked the sliding on/off switch on the heavy-duty solar panel. 

We weren’t so thrilled about the lack of hang loops above the individual bulbs. This was the only Edison-style string light we tested that did not offer that feature. Other than that, these are great-looking lights with a sturdy build and bright lighting capability.

Get the Brightech Glow solar string lights at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Brightech.

How We Tested the Best Solar String Lights

Many of the solar string lighting sets in this guide are constructed for year-round usage and can be used indoors, if desired. Some solar string light sets stand out for their extra features as well, including multiple lighting modes and USB charging. We tested the solar string lights for sun-charge time, runtime, and brightness. 

After unboxing them, we switched on the solar panels and laid them in the sun for 12 hours to fully charge. We hung the lights close enough to one another so that we could compare brightness and installed the solar panels in a location where they would receive direct sunlight for at least 8 hours a day. After observing and recording the results on three different nights, we noted our impression of the appearance and quality of each set. Then we tested real-world value by hanging them over patios, winding them to create flagpole lights, and decorating outdoor tree boughs. 

We awarded points based on a rubric. The better a string of lights did on a test, the higher the points. After testing, we averaged the points and used the scores to select the best overall pick and to categorize the others according to their best uses. 

What to Consider When Choosing Solar String Lights

To create an inviting, illuminated outdoor space, consider the size and shape of the bulbs as well as brightness and color. A weather-resistant design, a lengthy cord, and remote or app-control features can make outdoor solar lights safer and easier to use. 

Style and Shape

Solar string light bulbs are available in a variety of styles and shapes, including globe bulbs, Edison bulbs, lantern bulbs, fairy lights, and rope lights.

• Globe: These spherical bulbs, which come in a range of sizes, are commonly used in hanging pendants, modern chandeliers, and outdoor string lights. Their classic, timeless style complements a range of outdoor decor setups, from angular modern seating areas to cozy bohemian patios. Globe bulbs add a touch of glamour and charm to an outdoor space. 
• Edison: Edison bulbs are designed to look like Thomas Edison’s original invention. Thanks to their visible internal filaments, these traditional incandescent bulbs have a warm, glowing, vintage appearance. Modern LED Edison-style bulbs offer this classic light bulb look but in an energy-saving LED design. 
• Lantern: Lantern bulbs are covered with a lantern made of paper, plastic, nylon, or tarpaulin (a durable, waterproof material that resembles canvas). Lanterns come in different colors, patterns, and shapes. 
• Fairy: These tiny bulbs, which are usually no larger than a grain of rice, resemble fireflies shimmering on a wire. These are ideal for background or Christmas lights, and you can create a magical effect by draping strands of fairy lights over tree branches, in bushes, or along a fence. 
• Rope: Rope lights are mini bulbs encased in a transparent cover to protect them from the elements. Often made with LED bulbs, rope lights can be wound around deck posts, hung from fences, or used to illuminate garden spaces.

Size

When choosing bulb size, consider the available outdoor space, ease of installation, and desired look. Small bulbs are a good choice for small outdoor spaces as they won’t overpower the space or other outdoor decorations. They’re generally more subtle, providing gentle background lighting. Because they provide less light, they are commonly chosen for decorative purposes. 

Large bulbs are more striking and offer a bolder look. Moreover, their larger size provides more direct illumination. They are generally brighter and are suitable for larger spaces that need additional lighting. Decorative solar lights, such as globe bulbs and Edison bulbs, make a style statement. 

Brightness

Lumens measure the amount of visible light emitted by a bulb—the more lumens, the brighter the bulb. Don’t confuse lumens with wattage, though; wattage measures how much power a bulb consumes, but not how bright a light appears. When deciding on bulb brightness, consider the desired lighting effect. 

Solar string light bulbs can range from 5 to over 100 lumens per bulb. Buyers often choose solar lights for their glowy appearance rather than their brightness, so lower lumens often work well to set a mood. Typically, they’re not as bright as decorative solar lights for yard and landscape use.

Color Temperature

Lighting color temperature is measured using the Kelvin temperature scale. This scale measures how warm or cool the lighting appears. Lower numbers on the Kelvin scale look warmer, while higher numbers appear cooler. 

Most outdoor home lighting falls between 2000K (kelvins) and 6000K. Bulbs around 2700K have a cozy, warm white color with a yellow hue, while bulbs over 5000K provide stark, crisp lighting with a blue hue. 

Warm lighting makes a space look more cozy and inviting, while cool lighting may appear harsh, especially at night. As a result, warmer bulbs are generally preferred for ambient outdoor lighting. 

To determine the warmth of a light bulb, find the color temperature in kelvins. The lower the number, the warmer the light. 

Wire Length

Consider the size of the outdoor space and the lighting layout when choosing the ideal length of solar string lights. The best way to determine the required wire length is to use a piece of twine to measure where the lights will go. Consider the following recommendations, based on the size of the outdoor area:

• For lining one side of a balcony or porch, plan for about 10 feet of string lighting per side.
• A small 8-foot-long by 6-foot-wide patio space typically requires 25 to 50 feet of string lighting. 
• A medium 12-foot-square outdoor space may need 50 to 100 feet of string lighting, depending on the desired layout. 
• For more spacious areas or to illuminate a large event, more than 100 feet of string lighting is usually necessary. 

Weather Resistance

Since outdoor solar lights are exposed to the elements, selecting a set that stands up to rainy conditions and heavy gusts of wind is important. Having to take down the string lights every time they face inclement weather is not ideal.

First, check the product description to determine if the lights are intended for outdoor use. Using indoor lighting outside creates a potential fire hazard. Secondly, make sure the product is water-resistant or waterproof, as even spots under a roof can become damp in bad weather. 

Weather-resistant outdoor solar LED lights can handle direct exposure to water and feature watertight seals to protect their interior parts from accumulating moisture and causing safety issues. 

Additional Features

For those who want to upgrade from basic solar lights, consider a model with extra features like color-changing bulbs, dimming options, and controllability via an app or remote. 

• Color-changing bulbs: For a fun pop of color, look for patio string lights with color-changing bulbs. These solar string light options can set the mood for different events, seasons, and holidays.
• Dimming options: Whether for a romantic outdoor dinner or patio drinks with friends, dimming the lights can add to a cozy ambience. Some outdoor solar string lights include built-in dimmers, while others are compatible with a dimmer.
• Remote/app controls: A remote control allows for the operation of different lighting settings within a certain vicinity of the lights. App controls add even more convenience. WiFi-enabled options make it easy to switch lights on and off, even when away from home. Some outdoor night lights also integrate with smart-home devices, like Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

FAQs

To be sure that you’re using your solar string lights correctly, safely, and effectively, read the questions and answers below and learn more about selecting the best option for you. 

Meet the Tester

Glenda Taylor is a contractor, product tester, and writer focusing primarily on construction, DIY tools, and home appliances. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.

Mark Wolfe is a writer and product tester with an extensive background in the nursery and landscaping industry. For more than 20 years he mowed, edged, planted, pruned, cultivated, irrigated, and renovated beautiful landscapes. Now he tests and writes reviews about the latest outdoor power equipment, hand tools, lawn-care products, and other outdoor-living goods.

Additional research provided by Savannah Sher and Debbie Wolfe.

 

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