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The Best Solar Garden Lights to Make Garden More Dramatic

Written by Eddie B. Robinson / Checked by Justin Tucker

best solar garden lights

Being aesthetically pleasing and eco-friendly, the best solar garden lights beautify the yard, lawn, patio, or courthouse. They are quick to install and require little to no maintenance. However, no two solar-powered garden lights are alike. That’s why it could be a bit tricky to pick yours if you are unaware of what to check and compare among the sea of different products on the market. Worry not, as help is here! In the following, we’re going to discuss what to know about these garden lights and provide a few tips to help you select the right one for your needs. If you’re ready, let’s get started.

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Preview GIGALUMI 6810

KOOPER ‎SZ-19002

EXCMARK Solar Light

Quantity 12 4 10
Height 14.2 inch 29.5 inch 16 inch
Material ABS, Metal ABS, Metal Hard Plastic
Waterproof IP44 IP65 IP44
Brightness 3 Lumen ‎8 Lumen ‎3 Lumen
Color Temp 6500K 6500K
Runtime 8 hours 8-10 hours 8-12 hours
Details Details Details

Contents

Top-Tier Solar Garden Light Reviews

1. GIGALUMI 6810 Solar Lights

  • 12-pack solar light for outdoor decoration
  • A breeze to install, perfect for DIYers
  • Not too bright or too dim
  • Energy-saving to save on your electricity bill
  • Engineered and built to keep up with the harsh weather
  • Size might be smaller than you would expect

Landscaping isn’t only for professionals but also for beginners, like us. Besides the flowers, plants and hardscaping elements, we can consider using some eco-friendly decorations, such as outdoor solar landscape lights. One top-rated brand for these adornments is GIGALUMI, and no doubt why.

Take, for example, this 12-pack solar light. If you would consider it, you’ll get solar-powered outdoor lights, which do not require additional utility cost on your end. How cool is that? I love solar products like these lights that don’t just beautify my patio, deck or garden but also let me save some dollars.

Now, these solar lights can replace your good old flashlight every time you need to go out at night. No more buying one-time used flashlight batteries.

I also recommend these solar lights because they stay lit and bright for up to eight hours if adequately charged. They are also a breeze to install. All you need is to remove the included isolator tab under each light’s cap, and then push the stake into the ground.

You can also rely on these solar lights to light up automatically at night and off at dawn to start charging as soon as sunrise comes. In addition to ease of use, they’re weatherproof to deal with the changing weather. They can also keep up with a small snowy day!

The product also comes with an efficient solar panel that recharges the integrated battery during the day.

People with solar lighting gardens can also appreciate that these path lights are not overwhelmingly bright and they blend well with any garden design. Plus, they’re functional enough for use in decks, paths, driveways, patios, and much more. You can also use them to light your flower bed! What more can be better than versatile outdoor lights?

However, the size might be smaller than one would expect. Although these are a bit smaller than other solar lights, it is not something to underestimate. They are bright enough to light the walkway or garden, improving the ambience.

2. KOOPER Outdoor Solar Lights

  • Bigger solar panel for better charging capacity
  • Lovely patio or garden decoration to suit any theme
  • 16 large lily flower designs to please the eyes
  • Automatically light up at nighttime
  • Color changing to fit every mood
  • Charging efficiency gets affected on cloudy days.

After a long day, there is nothing more soothing than looking at a lovely garden or relaxing on the patio. And what better way to complete the experience than a nice ambience light. These solar lights for walkway by KOOPER are the perfect solution for homeowners who want to create a haven right in the yard. No matter your garden decoration, these additions are sure to wow anyone that sees them.

If you love flowers (and who doesn’t?), you’ll appreciate the large lily flower designs. But don’t be fooled! These are finely processed fabric, which is not the typical cheap materials used in the manufacture of solar lights. What’s more, you’ll be delighted for the overall pattern of the lily flowers in two shades of purple, white and pink.

For easy arrangements, the leaves and stems are adjustable. In this case, you can position them in any way that your creativity desires. I love this element in the design because it gives users more opportunities to select the overall finished look of the decoration in the garden.

But there’s more to what pleases the eyes in the overall engineering of these solar lights. This model comes with a highly-efficient solar panel, which just translates to a better charging capacity. Of course, though, the performance of the solar panel can be affected by the insufficient sunlight. It’s a common issue for most solar products. Nevertheless, you might not have to worry about it by placing the solar lights where they can receive much sunlight.

What makes this efficiency possible, the monocrystalline silicon that offers an excellent sun energy conversion among all solar cell types. Plus, this model comes with a 1.2V/600mAh Ni-MH AA battery. The best thing, I liked that they can work for up to 10 hours at a full charge.

If you loved the color-changing feature, you’d also be happy to know about its light sensor. It means that the lights work automatically when the night bites to beautify your garden.

This solar light is also built to withstand the harsh weather thanks to its IP65 rating. But then, I recommend taking out and storing in the winter to make them longer lasting.

However, they don’t charge well on cloudy days. The good thing is that the model has a large battery that might store just enough juice to get you through those days. Overall, I love the design, engineering, and solar panel efficiency, and you might want to check on these, too.

3. ExcMark Solar Lights Outdoor

  • Easy installation without wiring needed
  • Ideal as a gift to solar-loving friends
  • Practical and decorative garden lighting
  • Robust and durable construction for longer-lasting use
  • Water-resistant to deal with harsh outdoor conditions
  • Shorter runtime than the others in the same category do
  • Assembly is needed

The outdoor solar lights are money-saving and eco-friendly. They are 100% run by solar power, so you don’t have to worry about higher energy bills. Especially if you want to spruce up the look of your garden with decorative lights, you can have peace of mind for choosing a solar-powered lamp like these 10-pack white garden lights.

Also, these lights are ideal decorative accents in your outdoor space. They blend well with any decoration, without ruining the entire theme. In terms of installation, you’re probably asking if you could install these path lights with ease. The answer is “yes” because they are wireless. Thus, you can set them up in seconds! Without much effort, you can improve your garden’s appearance with their decorative glow.

At a full charge, the lights can run between eight and 10 hours before they require another charge. At nighttime, the lights turn on automatically and off at daytime. Such a smart feature, operating on its own saves you the effort of switching them on when needed.

These lights are also ideal as gifts to friends or loved ones who love solar products.

However, the decorative solar lights have a shorter run time than the others in the same category do. Also, they need assembly that might take some time. Overall, you will not have any issues with the installation because they require no wiring. They also add decoration and practical design to your lawn, patio, or garden. These lights are also affordable, yet they’re high quality and perform excellently.

4. Homeimpro Garden Solar Lights

  • Beautiful moon pattern design creates a romantic ambience
  • Durable construction and weather-resistant materials
  • No wiring or electrical knowledge needed
  • Lights are not too bright or too dim
  • Can be used in different outdoor areas, including patios, courtyards, and flowerbeds
  • Charging can be an issue during cloudy days

If you’re looking to decorate your garden but without spending much money, you can add these solar garden lamps on your to buy list. They’re not only affordable but also easy to set up. The stakes in the design make it possible. Even the DIYers without much experience in installing garden lights will not encounter any issue.

Part of the ease of installation, these lights also don’t require any wires to run. Thus, they also give you more opportunities for where to position them. This can also be used as solar light for flower beds, lawn, courtyard, or any place outdoors where they can receive enough sunlight.

For added flexibility, these garden lights are also ideal for indoor use. They are safe and can offer extended hours of glow. However, ensure that the solar panel is under direct sunlight at daytime for optimal charging.

The lights are warm white, not too bright nor too dim to offer ample lighting even in the walkway. The intricate design also makes it a good ambient light.

Besides, I like the money-saving benefits of these lamps because using them does not add to the electric bill. With that, we can decorate or light up the garden without spending more money on utilities.

These lights also come with intelligent features. They can turn on automatically at night, while its solar panel charges the battery included in the day. There is no more effort required on your end after the installation. Not to mention, it requires little effort to maintain. Just wipe clean the solar panel to remove dust for optimal charging.

However, the solar panel might not be able to charge enough during cloudy days or when positioned in a place where it doesn’t receive direct sunlight. Overall, though, these lights are some of the easiest to install on the market. They also help create a romantic garden ambience with minimal effort.

5. TomCare Solar Lights Upgraded

  • No wiring needed and easy to install
  • Lovely, warm torch-like light for an improved effect
  • The package comes with four pieces of lights
  • Larger battery capacity than others, 2200mAh
  • Can work up to 12 hours on a full charge
  • Smaller than what some users have expected (43 inches)

The garden lighting is another not to miss on your list, especially if you’re searching for flickering flames design. The solar lights can give that classic appeal to your garden, patio, lawn, or yard. You can also use them as additional landscaping features.

Are you looking to enhance the mood in your garden or outdoor space? You’d appreciate these dancing flame lights, which are also safe to use. You don’t need to use matches anymore to achieve a torch lighting effect.

You don’t also need to buy batteries separately because these lights run on solar power. At daytime, the solar panel collects energy and then the lights automatically turn on at nighttime. But for optimal charging, you must position it where the panel can receive sufficient sunlight so that it can store the power to the built-in battery.

When fully charged, I love that the lamps can stay lit for up to 12 hours, and that is thanks to the included power-efficient battery with a 2200mAh capacity. The batteries need charging for eight hours to power the lights at nighttime.

In terms of durability, the construction is weather-resistant, allowing it to deal with all kinds of weather throughout the year.

It has a little drawback, though. Some people reported that these outdoor solar lights were smaller than they expected. Overall, these lamps are some of the loveliest around thanks to their flickering torch design for a classic appeal. You also get four pieces of torch lights in every package.

6. JJGoo Outdoor Solar Garden Lights

  • 40-branch, 120-LED solar garden lights
  • Flexible copper branches for design versatility
  • 12-hour runtime on low brightness setting after 6-hour charging
  • Dual lighting modes in 3000K warm white
  • Quick and effortless installation
  • IP65 water-resistant design
  • Manual operation

Homeowners wanting solar outdoor lights they can shape into their favorite forms should consider the JJGoo. Unlike other solar landscape lights that do not allow for design versatility, this product allows homeowners to unleash their creativity as they decorate their gardens with starburst-like lights.

Forty uber-flexible LED branches form this solar garden light. Along each copper strand are 3 LED lights, meaning the unit features up to 120 bulbs in total. As the fixture casts a pleasant 300K warm white glow, it’s perfect for walkways, patios, porches, and other landscape features.

This solar light’s 12-hour maximum runtime is quite impressive as well–it’s enough to decorate landscapes for most of the night. Surprisingly, it only takes the product 4 to 6 hours to fully charge on a sunny day. This goes to show how highly efficient the product’s solar panels are.

When it comes to mode settings, families have two options–a steady light or a flickering effect. Setting up this fixture is as easy as it can get–I only had to reassemble the parts according to the included instruction. The overall process only took me a minute or two. After toggling the switch, I can rest assured the light will turn on automatically at night.

I also appreciate the solar garden light’s IP65 rating, which gives me peace of mind that snow, rain, and wind will not affect the product. The only thing I need to pay attention to is periodic cleaning to ensure the solar panel’s optimal performance.

Sadly, this solar garden light doesn’t come with remote control. This means that I’ll have to go outside and manually toggle the switch between the two lighting modes.

Overall, its flexible and creativity-inspiring design sets this solar garden light apart from the competition. That is saying something.

7. SUNPO Solar Pathway Lights

  • Offers up to eight hours of light at night with five full hours of charging
  • Many applications on lawns, decks, or patios…
  • Corrosion-resistant materials for long-lasting use
  • Bright six lumens LED with warm white light
  • No wires and no tools required
  • Not as weather-resistant as the others (IP44)

You might have bumped into these pathway lights while reading other solar garden lights reviews. There is no doubt why because these SUNPO path lights are the real deal in saving money. They are useful for many applications such as for lawn, driveway, yard, patio, or deck, you name it! Their versatility gives you more opportunities to use them, even if you’re living in a dark block.

That’s not all, though, because these SUNPO lights are top performers. The high ratings in user reviews say it all! Just like many people looking for an energy-saving lighting solution, I like the performance of these lights, which require only five solid hours of charging and are capable of staying lit for at least eight hours at night.

I also love that these solar lights are with a built-in sensor, allowing them to turn on automatically at night while off and during daytime. The 600 mAh battery helps store power to light them whenever it’s dark enough. Additionally, these lights don’t need much attention at all. Except, for the fact that I recommend you clean the solar panel from time to time to remove the dust and dirt that might affect its charging efficiency.

But then, this product also comes with a drawback. It is not as waterproof as the rest in the category are. During a storm or in the winter, I recommend storing the lights to avoid damage. Nevertheless, these decoration or illumination lights are perfect for anyone looking to improve their outdoor space’s appearance or light up a dark driveway. They are also energy-efficient and require no electricity to operate.

8. Mopha Solar Garden Lights

  • Eco-friendly garden lights that do not require electricity
  • Durable construction for long-lasting use
  • Friendly customer service for concerns and queries
  • Automatically turns on at night
  • Lovely and sleek design
  • Weather affects charging efficiency

One of the high-quality brands that we highly recommend when it comes to solar-powered types of equipment is Mopha. This brand prioritizes both the appearance and durability of their products. If you are looking for beautiful decorative solar lights, these garden lights are for you.

The Mopha solar garden lights give off a warm white color at 15 lumens. A lot of homeowners prefer these lights because they do not have too much glare, so they are not irritating for the eyes. You can use them to illuminate your garden, patio or backyard. Once you turn them on, you will be mesmerized by the delicate flower reflection that they give off.

The lights are very user-friendly and hassle-free. The installation can be done in just a few simple steps, and charging is automatic. The lights will charge during the day and work at night for up to 8 hours. The lights automatically turn on once it gets dark outside. So even if you are not home, your garden lights will still work to light up your backyard.

In terms of quality, these Mopha solar garden lights are right up there on the list. They are made from high-quality stainless-steel and feel very sturdy. Added to that, they are waterproof and corrosion-resistant. You can trust these lights to survive and work even in the rainy season.

The friendly and responsive customer service of Mopha is a plus. You can always count on their customer support to answer any queries you have.

However, there is also a downside to these beautiful lights. Charging is dependent on the amount of sunlight received by the solar panel. Charging may not be that efficient on a cloudy or rainy day and the lights may not be as bright and will not last the whole night, if not adequately charged.

Despite that, these solar garden lights from Mopha are a total bang for your buck. They are beautiful, durable, eco-friendly, and affordable.

9. OxyLED Solar Garden Lights

  • Does not require much supervision because they automatically turn on and off
  • Eco-friendly lights that do not depend on fossil fuel power source
  • Easy to use and install even without electrical experience
  • Colorful lights add beauty to the outdoors
  • Elegant crystal design does not ruin any existing outdoor theme
  • Not ideal for shady areas

If you are thinking of a more vibrant and colorful garden light, you might want to consider OxyLED solar garden lights. These lights come in different colors like yellow, red, blue and green, that automatically cycle, which are perfect for those who just love colors for their gardens, backyard, and fence at night.

I also like the unique crystal glass globe design of these solar garden lights that look like balloons. Aside from adding colors, the elegant design of these lights improves the scenery of your home, especially during nighttime. Any visitors or passersby who will see your garden lights will surely be impressed.

These solar garden lights are also effortless to install and use. Everything you need is in the package, including the LED lights and stakes. There are no complicated wirings involved. You only need to attach the stake and push it into the ground. That is really simple and easy.

Charging is automatic. These lights charge during the day using the energy from the sun. They automatically light up at dusk. If fully charged,they can offer up to 8 hours of runtime, lighting up your whole yard all night.

The durability of these lights is also impressive because they are made from stainless steel, durable plastic, and glass. With IP65 waterproof rating and corrosion-resistant design, they can easily withstand harsh outdoor conditions. So, if you want lights that are built to last, you might want to add these garden lights on to your list.

However, they might not work that well during the rainy season when sunlight is scarce. They are also not for shady areas. Still, these solar garden lights are of high-quality and work well as advertised. The design and durability are top-rated, not to mention that they are also reliable, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly. If you want to invest in beautiful solar garden lights, you should consider these.

10. URPOWER Solar Lights

  • Easy to install and use even beginners can set them up
  • Fully adjustable solar light to receive optimal sunlight
  • Two mounting options for better flexibility
  • Two lighting modes to adjust the lighting effect
  • Energy-saving and affordable lights
  • Charging is dependent on the weather condition

Another trusted brand on our list is URPOWER, which is known for making high-quality solar-powered products that are affordable. If you want beautiful but budget-friendly solar lights, try these solar garden lights.

These solar garden lights generate a total of 200 lumens in intensity with 4 LEDs and give off a cool white color. There is not much glare, and the lights are pleasing to the eyes. I also like that they give two lighting options for variety. You can choose between the high or low brightness mode. These lights are also functional and can be used in various locations, such as on your pathway, patio, garden or backyard at night.

You can charge these lights using just the energy from the sun. Solar power is off-grid, meaning no added utility cost. And even if you have no electrical experience, you don’t have to worry because this product can be installed without any complicated wiring. No wires also mean less messy appearance in the garden.

The installation process is straightforward. It does not require any unique tool and can be done in a few minutes. Everything is already in the package, including the mounting spike and screws. These lights give you two mounting options, too. You can either choose to stick them onto the ground using the stakes or mount on to a wall using screws.

They are also fully adjustable, so you have more options on how you wish them setup. For optimal charging, you can adjust the angle of the lights to receive the maximum amount of sunlight. These lights are also weather-resistant to last long and keep up with the harsh outdoor conditions.

However, the bulbs may be dimmer on gloomy or rainy days when there is scarce sunlight. So, it would be top-tier if you placed these in an area directly exposed to sunlight for optimal charging and brighter lights at night. Overall, these solar garden lights are top-rated and work well. You can rely on their safety measures and performance, too.

11. Ulmisfee Solar Garden Lights

  • Decorative and pleasing to the eyes
  • Withstands most weather conditions
  • Eco-friendly and energy-saving lights
  • Quick and straightforward installation
  • Smart features, including automatic switching
  • Not the brightest solar garden lights

Shopping around for quality garden lights, don’t fail at including Ulmisfee, a brand that ensures their garden lights pass strict quality and safety standards before bringing out their offers on the market. Among its popular products are these decorative olive lights, which can be used in the lawn, patio, yard, or walkway.

The design of these lights is one of its main features. They are in a lovely olive shape with a metal iron housing. The pattern looks very elegant, too. The lights give off soft and subtle warm white color, adding a cozier and calmer atmosphere for your home or garden. Their appearance makes them an instant attraction among guests or passersby.

But its highlight is not only in the design but also in the quality and durability. They are made from metal and durable plastic material, making them suitable for the outdoors. They can keep up with the harsh conditions and weather changes.

The operation of these lights is straightforward and completely hassle-free. From its easy installation process to its automated feature, the Ulmisfee solar garden lights are designed to be user-friendly. Everything you need for the installation is already inside.

However, the lights can be quite dim for some people. It might happen if they are not adequately charged or placed in a shady area. Still, these beautiful decorative lights are worth the investment for many reasons, including their stunning design and durability.

LITOM Solar Garden Lights (Outdated)

  • Installation can be done in minutes
  • Bright garden lights for efficient illumination
  • Bigger adjustable solar panels with higher efficiency
  • Durable construction to serve you for years
  • Two lighting modes allow flexibility
  • Charging power deteriorates over time.

If you still haven’t found the perfect garden lights for you, check out LITOM outdoor solar spotlights. LITOM is a reliable brand, consistently ranking as one of the top choices among solar products. These lights are durable and functional so that you can expect long-lasting use.

When it comes to durability, you can depend on these lights because they are made of high-impact ABS plastic material. It also has a water-resistant rating of IP67, impressively higher than others in the category. Thanks to this these lights are ideal for harsh weather conditions, especially during the rainy season.

Compared to other lights in the market, these lights have a much bigger solar panel, translating to better charging power. This model also comes with a 18650-lithium battery that packs much power to run between eight- and 12-hours once fully charged. The solar panels are also adjustable, so you can position and angle them to receive optimal sunlight. Thus, you can also have peace of mind of efficient charging performance.

These landscape lights can be installed in two ways. You can choose to use the stakes and plug the lights onto the ground, or mount the lights on your walls with screws. These accessories are already in the package, so you have nothing to worry about, too. Not just quick to set up but also functional that you can use them in multiple situations, including in the fence, patio, walkway, or pool.

You also don’t need to trouble yourself with turning on or off your garden lights because they automatically do it. They automatically charge during the day and turn on during the night. Once you’ve installed them, these lights can work on their own.

However, some people complained about the reduced charging efficiency over time. But then, it can be a common issue just like in other solar lights. Still, the LITOM solar landscape lights are such a steal with its quality and durability garden lights. These most trusted solar lights for the garden are eco-friendly, affordable, and high-quality.

WOHOME Garden Solar Lights (Outdated)

  • Automatically light up at nighttime
  • IP65 waterproof design makes it longer lasting
  • Multiple color changing LED offers an outstanding sight
  • Butterfly design adds color and life to the garden
  • Includes a 600mAh rechargeable battery that works up to eight hours
  • Not the most durable around

If you’ve been reading a solar garden light review trying to find a suitable solar-powered path light, you might have stumbled upon these WOHOME garden lights. Especially if you’re an earth hero trying to use environment-friendly products in your home, you’ve probably checked out what others are saying about these lights, which are not dependent on traditional electricity sources because they’re solar-powered.

Another thing I like is its design of the lights that mimic real butterflies, which add color and life to the garden or patio. The lighting effect is unique, offering a romantic feel at night. Furthermore, the lights are also waterproof with an IP65 rating that can withstand even harsh weather, adding to its longevity and more value for the money.

The lights are changeable to seven different colors. They don’t only illuminate the garden and walkway but also give a fantastic view of the surroundings.

These lights are also flexible on where they can be installed. They can be in flower beds, walkways, fences, gardens or trees. And if you don’t have experience in installing this decoration, no worries! You can just remove the protective film and plug the lights into the soil. Make sure that you turn them on before, though. These lights do not also require an external power source and feature a smart power control.

Maybe you’re asking how many hours could these lights run? The built-in battery is very energy efficient and can keep them lit for up to eight hours at night. And during daytime, it charges automatically.

However, some users reported the lights being broken after a month or so. But then, these were isolated reports on quality control issues. Overall feedback from solar landscape lighting reviews was excellent. Plus, if you’re looking to decorate your garden without spending a fortune, you might as well check out these garden lights that offer efficient performance.

What Is A Solar Garden Light And Who Is This For

best-garden-solar-lights

Plants and flowers in your garden bring so much life to your home. They are natural decorative pieces that can lighten up your mood all day long. A solar garden light can add elegance and beauty to your living work of art. Solar energy keeps them lit up. At daytime, the lights absorb sunlight through its solar panels, which then is converted into electricity that can supply the light for night time use.

This kind of lighting system is easy to install and use. They are usually added to the garden bed and emit a bright light when dark. And because these lights are powered by solar energy, they won’t add financial liability to your electrical bills.

There are a lot of options to choose from commercially. The market today offers simple solar garden lights and some well-decorated ones that fit perfectly in any garden. Some have housing designs, such that when it emits light, patterns come glowing at night.

When you plan to add a subtle ornament in your garden, this can be the top-tier choice you can make. In the daytime, these lights blend perfectly well with the plants and flowers. And at night, they can make your garden glow without effort.

These garden lights are perfect for homeowners who are planning to decorate their own space. Porches, balconies, and patios can also make use of these garden lights. Beyond that, these lights are not limited to residential use. Companies and commercial spaces can also add these garden lights outside their buildings or their lawn. These lights are versatile, and they can easily blend in various open areas.

How Does It Work

Solar garden lights work systematically without additional electrical demand. Since they are powered by the sun, they have components that are like any other solar-powered devices. A typical solar garden light has three significant components: the solar panel, the battery, and the light bulb.

The solar panel is the one that absorbs the sunlight. It has photovoltaic cells that can convert solar energy into an electrical one. Once it has transformed this energy, it then passes on to the system’s battery for storage. The more the solar panels are exposed to sunlight, the longer the light can stay lit. Of course, this also depends on the maximum capacity of the built-in battery.

LEDs are widespread and are the ones that are commonly used in these solar garden lights.

Aside from that, you don’t need further electrical connections nor wiring systems to keep these lights up at night. Each garden light has a switch that can automatically turn on and off, depending on the surroundings’ brightness. By day, it absorbs energy and then habitually turns on at night. Most of these lights also have energy-saving mode wherein they turn themselves off at dawn.

What Are The Different Types Of Solar Garden Lights

decorative-solar-lights

The popularity of solar-powered outdoor appliances has taken the world by a storm. These can be found easily, and most manufacturers have made variations in these solar garden lights. According to its usage, there are three basic types of the best solar garden lights

Path Lights

The name itself gives way to how these lights are used. They work in the same way as the other solar garden lights. But these path lights are typically placed along a pathway. They are usually bordered by the garden bed and the path. It also helps guide a walker’s every step to keep his or her feet off the grass and plants.

These path lights also add safety and security to the place. They light the part so we can see where we’re going without tripping, and provide a bright environment that keeps burglars away. These lights are customarily brighter than other garden lights, and their designs are generally straightforward.

Decorative Lights

Garden lights are great decorative pieces. But these decorative lights bring out the creativity in you as these lights are unique. They are usually made of mosaic tiles or sculpted metal. A decorative pattern is produced when these lights radiate at night. Most colorful garden lights also fall into this category of solar garden lights. Although they are not as bright as the path lights, they can together make your garden look more elegant and uplifted. They complement the lighting system in most houses and commercial spaces.

Accent Lights

These lights are not as fancy as those as the decorative ones. They subtly add a lighting effect that won’t steal the spotlight of your garden’s beauty. They typically add a glow in flower beds, and there are even outdoor solar lights for trees. As the name implies, it adds an accent on what your garden already showcases.

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using A Solar Garden Light

Solar garden lights are great for home and personal use. They are very versatile as they décor your patio, balcony, terrace, and the garden itself. There are many reasons you should invest in this kind of light because its advantages outweigh a few of its drawbacks. Yes, these lights can keep you back for a few reasons. But overall, they are perfect for garden use without hurting your pockets.

Advantages

  • They are cost-effective

Using lights every night can burden you with its power consumption. Switching to solar energy is a cost-effective choice. Since these lights are powered by the sun, they don’t add any additional charges to your electrical bill. Besides, installation is extra easy as it won’t need additional wiring or electrical power.

  • Solar energy is a great alternative

The sun shines every day, so you don’t have to worry about recharging the batteries of these lights manually. Solar energy is a great eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuel. You don’t contribute to pollution, and you leave a lesser carbon footprint day by day. You don’t only benefit your garden with this choice, but you also keep the environment a whole lot cleaner.

  • They usually come in pairs or sets

One of the things that hold homeowners in having these lights is that they might need to invest in more than one garden light. At the same time, that is true, most of the ones that are sold commercially come in pairs or sets. Of course, some unique ones are sold individually, but many accent garden lights come in 4 pieces. This can already save you from future spending on garden decorations.

  • They are great accessories to plants

You may think that these lights can only be beneficial at night. But even by daytime, these decorative pieces are great accessories for your plants. Most of the ornamental garden lights complement plants and flowers by the day. When the sun sets, and as they slowly glow, your garden uniquely shines with its own customized set of lights.

  • They keep the ambiance relaxed and unique

Outdoor parties and intimate dinners by the garden are better with great lights. Solar garden lights keep the atmosphere calm. Most light patterns also keep the mood of the party up and alive. If dinners with family and friends frequently happen in your place, this might be the one that will perk your dinner party up.

How We Picked And Tested

solar-lights-for-flower-beds

Online internet reviews on solar-powered devices are widespread in this era of technology. Plus, the solar energy industry has made its way to be very accessible for public consumption. We can’t blame the manufacturers because these solar-powered lights have greatly helped many homeowners and businesses.

We understand that the market can provide you with a ton of options. The construction of these solar-powered garden lights can be very similar to each other, but the materials and the design can vary from one manufacturer to another. Aside from that, there are a few features that can be unique to each brand and model.

The internet’s views on a lot of products can shape your opinions on these solar garden lights. You can keep calm, knowing that the products in these reviews are superb in quality. The manufacturers have been in the solar energy game for quite some time. They have established their brand through the years for their customers. Rest assured that most of their customer’s concerns and apprehensions were noted. The longevity and the quality of these garden lights were deliberated to keep you updated with the top-tier ones in the market today.

Design

Many of these garden lights are for decorative purposes. We understand that the design can be a primary concern for the purchase. The style of these lights are unique and are varied depending on your taste. Some of the lamps included are very inimitable, as they can come as a single decorative piece. Some of the lights also have mosaic glass as a housing of the light bulb. These lights emit a beautiful glowing pattern at night.

Light

LED lights are mostly used in the reviews done. This kind of light usually shines bright at night without taking too much energy from the battery. Aside from that, some of the lamps included not only emit white light. We understand that ambiance can be changed with the set of lights used. There are also warm white lights included in the reviews.

Installation

Since solar garden lights do not need any other electrical support outside its system, the reviewed products are effortless to install and set up. They usually come with a manual that shows their installation process. They are commonly installed on the ground. Professional skill in light installation is usually not required.

Solar Panel

The power that shines the light at night originates from the sun. That is why these lights’ solar panels are one of the most integral parts of the system. These panels are of high-quality. Some of them can even be adjusted to different angles to make sure that they absorb the maximum amount of light by the day.

Price

The price range greatly varies per light or set of lights in this review. Most can be on the pricey end, depending on the material and the design. Some of these lights are also affordable. Rest assured that you are getting your money’s worth with the beauty and quality of these solar garden lights in this review.

Frequently Asked Questions

clean-energy-faq

Do solar garden lights need direct sunlight?

No, garden solar lights do not need direct sunlight to charge their built-in batteries and power the bulb at night. Like other solar powered outdoor lights, solar garden fixtures can recharge their batteries in several ways.

First, you can place the outdoor solar lights for trees near windows where they can absorb sunbeams. Alternatively, bouncing sunlight off a mirror or other reflective object can recharge the solar batteries.

Second, artificial lighting can recharge your solar lights for yard applications. Incandescent or LED bulbs should work nicely in this instance. However, it is worth mentioning that artificial lighting will extend solar light charging time by two to five hours.

Lastly, some solar lights for outdoor use have dual charging options featuring a USB port for charging cables. You can plug this into a power bank or an electric wall outlet and never worry about sunlight not charging the solar yard lights again.

How long do solar garden lights last?

Backyard solar lights have four essential components: the light bulb, solar panel, battery, and circuitry. Each has a definite lifespan impacting the solar light’s longevity.

Solar panels can last 20 to 40 years, depending on the type. Monocrystalline solar panels have a longer lifespan (25 to 40 years) than polycrystalline versions (20 to 35 years). Meanwhile, LED bulbs can produce light for 50,000 to 100,000 hours. Hence, solar garden lights that stay on all night will have LEDs lasting at least 13 years.

Nickel-metal-hydride rechargeable batteries can last five years or less, while lithium-ion units have a lifespan of only two to three years. You might need to replace the battery several times before the solar panels give up.

Are solar garden lights eco-friendly?

Yes, solar garden lights that work in winter and all year round are environmentally friendly. These solar landscape lights do not run on electricity, contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gases.

To give you an idea, an acre of solar arrays can produce 394 to 447 megawatt-hours annually, reducing carbon emissions by 121 to 138 metric tons yearly. Simple math leads to 679 pounds of carbon dioxide for every megawatt-hour of power generation.

A typical solar garden light is 40 watts or less. This fixture, on average, only uses 400 watt-hours daily (if it runs ten hours daily) or 146 kWh annually. Multiplying this by 0.679 gives us 99 pounds of carbon dioxide annually.

Our calculation shows that the higher the solar garden light’s wattage, the more significant the carbon emission reduction. Increasing the number of solar-powered lighting can also have a similar effect, underscoring these fixtures’ eco-friendliness.

What are the most trusted solar garden light brands?

A few of the most trusted brands in this category include KOOPER, GIGALUMI, SUNPO and WOHOME, among the ones featured here. Check them out and compare their features based on your preferences.

How to install and use?

Solar lights are perfect for garden lighting. Aside from being an affordable option, they are also easy to install and use. Since there are no wirings required, installation is a breeze, and here are some installation guides to point you to the right direction

  • Get the placement right: Solar garden lamps should be exposed to the sun during the day to store the energy it needs to work during the night. Make sure that when you decide on the location, the panels are exposed to the maximum amount of sunlight. Before settling on the positioning, mark the spot where each of the lights will be placed. This is to balance your garden’s landscape.
  • Install your foundation stakes: Position the foundation stakes firmly into the ground using a hammer or a rubber mallet to push it down without damaging any component. Measure the distance and make sure that the depths are uniform.
  • Attach your light posts: If your lights come in separately from your post, then securely attach the lights to the stake.
  • Position your solar panels: Attach the solar panels to the garden lights that will not be receiving the needed amount of sunlight. You can do this via a wire. The solar panels will allow the lights positioned in shady areas to work during the night and maintain your garden lights’ illumination.

If your solar garden lights have enough power, you can use them during the night and admire its subtle and moody effect on your outdoors.

How to care & clean?

Cleaning your solar garden lights is a hassle-free and straightforward activity. It is essential to do this maintenance because it will impact your light’s functionality and help with its longevity. Your main problem with solar garden lights would be the dust layer that accumulates in the bulb and on the solar panel, so it would be most suitable to clean your lights using a soft cloth and soapy water. Should there be stubborn debris or mud, you can use a soft brush to clean it.

Do your regular cleaning early in the morning or late afternoon because you want these lighting fixtures to absorb as much solar energy as possible during the day. You also want to clean them when they are not scorching hot.

You should clean your garden lights at least once a month, but if your area is prone to dust and debris, you can do your maintenance cleaning more frequently as necessary.

Don’t just focus on your lightings’ globes but also the plastic or metal parts that come with it. While cleaning, you can also check for cracks or dented portions. Do regular checks on your battery and watch out for signs of corrosion. If your battery needs to be replaced, go ahead and do so.

How to make garden solar lights brighter?

Solar panels are dependent on the sun. The stronger the sunlight that the panels are exposed to, the brighter the lights will shine, within the LED’s capacity, of course. But in cases where even if it is exposed to the sun for eight hours and your solar garden lights are still not as bright as you want it to be. There might be interventions that you can do to make it brighter.

Here are the things you can do and check, and hopefully, you can add to the intense brightness of your lights:

  • Clean your solar panels, including the bulbs and the fixtures: This might be a little obvious, but if you have a layer of dust on your solar fixtures, then the light won’t shine brightly as it should because the extra shimmer gets blocked by the debris and dirt.
  • Check the batteries: Your battery packs are vital because this is where you store the sun’s energy. Ideally, these batteries last for a long time. But just like anything, it is also subjected to wear and tear. Look out for corrosions and do a battery replacement if the decline cannot be arrested.
  • Reposition your lights: Although it is evident that solar garden lights need to be exposed as much as possible to the sun, there is still a chance that the installation and position of the lights are wrong. If this is likely to contribute to why your lights are not shining as expected, you may want to reconsider their placing and try a new spot for the lights.

Conclusion

Picking among the top-rated solar-powered patio or garden lights can be easier with a clear picture of what to expect. Hoping you’re able to decide which among the best solar garden lights are for you based on these reviews and buying guide. And remember, consider the features you want your garden lights to have, including their durability, waterproof design, and overall quality. Buy your solar garden lights today!

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