Are you looking for the best solar porch lights? These products are valuable additions to our outdoor spaces including porches. They can provide us with a wide-angle lighting to ensure a better coverage for superior lighting. They also improve security because they keep our front doors illuminated to deter burglars and thieves.
These products are also energy-efficient and long lasting, so they don’t need additional electricity bill spending or replacement. The solar lighting solutions don’t also need electrical wirings to set up, so pretty much anyone can just screw and have them fixed in their preferred location.
But if you want to find the best deals, we have prepared a guide containing the top 10 picks along with the things to consider when buying such lighting solutions. Also, we’re highlighting the answers to the most commonly asked questions about these products for your better guidance. Check them out below.
Top 1 | Top 2 | Top 3 | |
Preview | iThird FBA_IT-55 | JACKYLED Solar Light | Maggift Solar Light |
Bulbs | 21 LEDs | 48 LEDs | 2 LEDs |
Brightness | 330 LM | 1000 LM | 15 LM |
Waterproof | IP44 | IP65 | IP44 |
Runtime | 8-12 hours | 6-12 hours | 8-10 hours |
Details | Details | Details |
Contents
Top-Tier Solar Porch Light Reviews
1. iThird Solar Lights Outdoor
- Easy to set up
- Stainless steel anti-rust
- 3 operating modes
- Motion sensor included
- Improved security
- A bit pricey
Solar outdoor lights might not be the brightest solar porch light but are some of the most reliable. These lights are another not to miss when comparing your choices because they have solid performance features that make them a great pick.
The solar lighting with motion sensor is a decent pick because it is rustproof and waterproof. Both of these things add to the durability and reliability of solar porch lights.
You will be impressed to know that it is IP44-rated, meaning it is waterproof to a certain degree. Solar lighting is one of the top-tier choices if you’re looking for a durable product that can last a long time.
This product is made of stainless steel, which can resist rusting and corrosion. With it, you can be certain of using it for a long time. It will not rust or become brittle or fragile when exposed to harsh weather.
Another thing worth noting it that it comes with an efficient solar panel, which can charge the light for between four and six hours. When fully charged, the light can work between eight to 12 hours.
I would also like to note that the porch light is energy-saving and nature-friendly. It can work efficiently, help you save energy and preserve nature. As it is solar-powered, it doesn’t emit harmful pollutants and contaminants in the air.
This model is also versatile for use in different outdoor spaces, like gardens, lawns, and patios. It can also offer maximum lighting at night, providing your place with better safety and security.
In addition, this product can offer maximum brightness and illumination] for longer hours when charged. Finally, the solar lighting is with a one-year warranty and comes with 30-day money back guarantee.
2. JACKYLED Solar Dusk to Dawn Light
- Efficient 3.5-watt polycrystalline solar panels
- 1000-lumen rating with a 120-degree illumination range
- 5500mAh battery for 12-hour maximum runtime
- The extension cord offers two installation options
- IP65 water-resistant components
- No motion sensor
Families looking for reliable, no-nonsense front porch solar lights should put JACKYLED at the top of their minds. Underneath its straightforward design is a dependable illumination performance to keep the porch safer.
I am not a fan of polycrystalline solar panels, but I am ready to make an exception with these porch lights. The photovoltaic panels are as efficient as my monocrystalline unit, generating 3.5 watts and 5.5 volts. Its nighttime discharge rate is also lower than other solar products with polycrystalline technology, earning my thumbs up.
These solar lights for front porch and garden can produce a 1000-lumen light output, flooding an area with warm and bright light in a 120-degree span. Families and visitors will never miss a step to the porch and have no issues inserting the key to the front door.
I am impressed with these solar lights’ 5500mAh battery. With such a large capacity, these fixtures can illuminate porches for up to twelve hours after a full charge. Therefore, I always fall back on these units when I need dusk-to-dawn landscape illumination.
Families will appreciate the dual installation options thanks to the extension cord. Homeowners can integrate the panel into the same wall mount bracket as the 48-LED light. If the area is shady, users can move the solar panel to areas with more direct sunlight exposure and mount the lighting fixture under the shade as a separate unit.
Rain, wind, and snow are never issues because this solar porch light is IP65-rated. It is not completely waterproof, but its water resistance is sufficient to give homeowners peace of mind.
I only wish these solar panel porch lights also had motion sensor technology like Home Zone ELJ6792V. It should extend the solar light’s runtime.
This solar porch light might not improve a house’s aesthetic qualities, but it can make families feel safer.
3. Maggift Solar Wall Lantern
- 300K LED bulb type with 6 lumens
- Stunning classic style
- With 180 days warranty
- Power saving efficient
- Constructed tough and long lasting
- An insulation trip needs to be unscrewed and removed first before charging.
If you are planning to have some lamps to enhance the lighting and view in an outdoor space at home or a business center, then try to consider the Maggift Solar Wall Lantern. You’ll agree that it is a sure winner among the other brands once you take a look of its features.
A swift look at the Maggift Solar Wall Lantern, I notice instantly how gorgeous its overall physique. I imagine it lighting every steps of the way in any landscapes such as on pathways, gardens, decks, fences or even at parks.
The two pieces 3000k LED lights produce warm white light. It will add a simple yet elegant ambiance in your area. On the other hand, its black matte body case brings back the traditional style. They look superb and elegant but without overdoing it. The design is just right for any decoration and theme that you have for your front door or porch.
What seems to be a twist is that this lamp looks classic but it has a modern touch of technology. If you are familiar with the solar energy, you’ll find this Maggift piece a work of art. When most of the commodities and services require fee, you’ll get a nice threat from this Solar Wall Lantern.
Since the lamps purely get power from the sunrays, no need for wiring and electricity supply. It has a solar panel that generates energy from the light and stores it in a one-piece AA 500 mAh Ni-Mh rechargeable battery.
What I like is that the Maggift Solar Wall Lantern has an automatic sensor of day and night time. It starts and stops functioning alone once it detects dusk or dawn. To charge this lamp, you just have to mount it on a sunny location. At least six to eight hours of charging is needed to get a maximum lighting service of eight to ten hours.
I know that you are also concerned if this item can be displayed and utilized for a long period of time. The answer is yes because the Maggift makes sure that it is crafted in exemplary solid materials. Each piece is constructed with a good quality of plastic plus sealed tightly to withstand different climate challenges.
To keep the valued customer satisfied, Maggift offers a 180 days warranty and assistance for their product. It is one of the most useful features to think about when shopping for this kind of lighting. So when comparing your options, you should find the offer in warranty for added peace of mind. It just means you can get assistance when something goes wrong with your solar porch lighting.
4. Home Zone Security Solar Wall Lights
- Vintage-style lantern design
- Easy to set up with included high-quality mounting hardware
- Durable glass and aluminum construction
- With motion detection technology
- IP65 rating for protection against harsh weather conditions
- Only produce ten lumens
A solar porch lantern does not need to look boring. Homeowners who think this way and like to add a touch of vintage elegance to their porches should consider Home Zone Security ELJ6792V. These solar wall-hanging lights make perfect ornaments to welcome nighttime visitors while adding a 3000K warm illumination to the home.
Setting up these solar porch lights is a breeze. The included mounting hardware can be driven through almost any wall material. The wall mount brackets are sturdy enough to tolerate hefty weight, while the hook forms a secure loop to prevent the lantern from falling.
Equipped with motion sensor technology, these lights will automatically turn on when they detect movements. And as the fixtures only light up when necessary, I don’t have to worry about the NiMH batteries running out in the middle of the night.
It did not go unnoticed that these hanging lights strike the perfect balance between durability and lightweight construction. The premium-quality glass and high-grade aluminum forming their shells are incredibly sturdy. However, the two fixtures only tip the scale at 4 pounds.
These solar porch lights look cheap from a distance. I would not be surprised if some folks think these lighting fixtures feature plastic. They do not. Instead, these lights have premium-quality glass and high-grade aluminum forming their shell. It is the perfect combination of strength and lightweight attributes that many families look for today.
Like JACKYLED, these solar porch lights have an IP65 rating. Rain and strong winds can ravage the front porch, and these lights would still function.
I must emphasize that these are decorative solar porch lights, producing only ten lumens. This light output is most suitable for adding accents to landscape features and not to improve safety within an area.
These solar lights might not be ideal for bright illumination, but they can make homes look more charming and inviting.
5. Gama Sonic GS-105FPW-BW Baytown II
- Ideal for all outdoor spaces
- No electrical wiring
- Bright lighting
- Integrated photocell sensor
- Energy-efficient
- Expensive
Do not miss the Gama Sonic lights if you’re looking for a reliable and durable porch lighting that requires low maintenance and offers an easy installation. The solar light is packed with the solid features and heavy-duty performance that you can rely on.
The Outdoor Solar Light is another favorite among property owners because it is bright enough to provide just the right illumination in a space. The lamp only model is a bright white light colored light by Gama Sonic, which is one of the most chosen brands around the world.
The Gama Sonic pole pier and wall mount kits is a top rated solar lights outdoor. It is powered by the sun completely, so you don’t have to worry about spending additional for electricity bills.
I would like to mention that it is also with internal Li-ion battery pack that charges automatically when the sunlight reaches the panel. In addition, this item has three different mounting options.
You can set them up on flat surfaces or as a wall sconce outdoor. If you have columns or pillars, you can also choose to install the light in that area. Finally, you can choose to mount it at the top of a lamppost.
The Baytown II is with 130 lumens of brightness, enough to keep the outdoor space illuminated. It is also with a photocell sensor, working to detect light automatically. It can switch on at nighttime and off once the sun is up, making it a convenient choice.
This model is also with low maintenance. Once you installed it, you don’t need to perform any maintenance at all. Occasionally, you can just wipe it with a damp cloth from time to time. For the rest of its operation, you can leave it to the sun.
The lighting solution does not require any hard installation. You can install it in a breeze, not requiring hiring any professional to do it for you. You can choose to install one in an outdoor space where you need illumination.
6. BEIDELT Solar Lights
- Bright white light
- Isensitive light sensor
- Sophisticated design
- Long working hours
- Easy installation
- Quality control issues
The BEIDELT solar lights are encased in a durable material made out of high-quality ABS plastic. This makes it heat and waterproof, enabling it to withstand numerous weather conditions such as rain, snow, sleet, hail and the like. The high quality covering also makes it resistant to rust and dust.
I personally like the ABS material since it makes the item lightweight while still providing the same durability as other materials. Aside from that, I also like how it eases the installation process. As it’s durable, you can attach it anywhere without worrying about the consequences and other effects.
Moreover, the BEIDELT solar lights come with a 5-volt and 120MAH solar panel and are equipped with 3 rechargeable 1800 MAH batteries. This combination provides for a fast conversion rate, thereby, a faster charging time as well as longer working hours.
As a consumer myself, fast charging times and long working hours are very assuring since it lets me know that the product is reliable and efficient. In fact, charging only takes about 6-8, provided it is exposed to an ample amount of sunlight.
The BEIDELT solar lights houses a total of 16 LED bulbs, giving off a white light that can sufficiently brighten up surrounding areas. If fully charged, it provides illumination for a period of about 8-10 hours.
These solar lights are also equipped with the company’s advanced isensitive light sensor. The sensor can automatically sense when dusk occurs and thus, automatically turns itself on. Likewise, it can detect when daylight comes and therefore, turns the lights off and starts charging.
The BEIDELT solar lights also come in an elegant and sophisticated design. I personally like Victorian or English-inspired designs since it gives it a regal and charming look and this is what these lights are certainly going for. It adds a touch of sophistication into your home.
The BEIDELT solar lights are also quick and easy to install. The package comes with a set of screws and a user manual. The lights also require no wiring and other special care and instructions. With this, you can install the BEIDELT solar lights anywhere without any difficulties.
What I don’t like is that the product has some quality control issues. However, this can easily be remedied. Nevertheless, many users were pleased with their purchase. Many were surprised of the brightness of the light while others praised it for its design.
If you are looking for a sophisticated, high quality and bright, white lights, then the BEIDELT solar lights might be the one you’re looking for. They’re also extremely easy to use and install and comes with long working times.
7. ALOVECO Decorative Solar Lights Outdoor
- 2-in-1 solar lighting solution
- IP65 protective level
- Can light up porches and decks
- Waterproof and durable
- 3 high-quality solar panels
- Light not as bright
One of the top-rated products in the solar front door light category is the ALOVECO solar lights. They’re versatile and can be used in almost all outdoor spaces, including porches, front doors, walls and so many more. These lights are also rich with the features that we should be looking for when shopping around for this product.
The ALOVECO outdoor lights are perfect solutions for those looking for an efficient lighting and heavy-duty performance. The model is with 2-in-1 motion sensor lights. They work by changing to cool white when they detect motion, and then after 30 seconds become flickering lights when someone passes.
The lights are also with a good battery capacity. It is designed with three topnotch solar panels for speeding up the charging time. The lights can operate for more than 10 hours if its battery is sufficiently charged.
The porch lights are also waterproof, adding to their durability. They are also made of UV engineered plastic for adapting to different weather conditions, including rainy or snowy days. The lights are also tested for being waterproof because they have an IP65 rating.
I’d also like to note that the lights are proven-safe for outdoor uses. They are certified good for outdoor purposes by the RoHS, FCC and CE. In addition, you don’t need to worry about installation difficulty because they are with no wirings needed.
Using these lights, you can be sure that your front door, decks, porches, driveways and gardens will stay illuminated at night. They’re decent choices also if you want your lighting to come with a long warranty.
This model comes with 24 months of warranty and includes 30 days money back guarantee. Choosing a solar light that comes with a good warranty is one of the features to find for peace of mind. It just means that you can get help when something goes wrong with your porch lighting.
GoerTek Solar Lights (Outdated)
- 360 degree rotatable solar panel and spotlight
- Motion sensing
- Durable
- Energy-saving
- 12-month warranty and good customer service
- Charging is dependent on weather condition
If you are looking for solar power porch lights recommendation either to add security for your home or to beautify its landscape, I suggest that you consider installing the GoerTek Solar Lights. This product is perfect for illuminating your yard, garden, garage, patio or deck.
My favorite thing about the GoerTek solar lights is its motion PIR motion detector sensor. This is perfect if you are looking for lights to ward off potential intruders from your house. The lights can detect any movements within 26 feet with a range of 120⁰. If it detects movement, the lights will brighten for 30 seconds then dims after the person or animal is gone.
I also really recommend the GoerTek solar lights if you are looking for durable, long lasting light. The lifespan of these lights is up to 50000 hours. It has a waterproof rating of IP65. Its material is also heat-resistant and frost-resistant.
The lights are low maintenance and can certainly withstand any extreme weather such as extreme heats, heavy rains and the snow. You don’t have to worry about constantly changing your lights because the GoerTek solar lights are resilient and durable.
What I also like about GoerTek solar lights is its 360⁰ rotatable solar panel and spotlight. I like how you can conveniently rotate the light fixture to any direction you want it to shine and adjust the solar panels to any angle where it receives maximum exposure to sunlight.
Adding to the list of things that I like about the GoerTek solar lights and why I highly recommend this to you is that it is energy saving with a higher 17% conversion rate. Its solar panels efficiently converts energy, even on a gloomy weather it can still generate energy. It has a 2000 mAh battery which if charged all day gives your home illumination for the night.
On top of a three easy installation steps, I also like how conveniently the lights automatically works automatically. Its built-in sensor detects light and powers up the lights when it’s dark and shuts it down to charge during daytime.
The only thing you need to do is to use the pin to press the light switch before installing. After that, you can leave the lights to function on its own saving you from any hassle.
On the cons, the charging time depends on the weather condition just as the others featured here. I am recommending this product to you with confidence because of those amazing features that I mentioned.
But what adds more to that confidence is its 12-month warranty period their friendly customer service. With that, I highly recommend the GoerTek solar lights to anyone who is looking for an eco-friendly, energy-saving, affordable and resilient outdoor lights.
Gama Sonic Solar Lights (Outdated)
- External solar panel
- Durable
- Stylish lights
- Easy to install
- 2-year warranty
- Some longevity concerns
Do you need lights for your barn, shed, greenhouse or garage? I would like to recommend the Gama Sonic Solar Lights. Gama Sonic USA is your trusted brand in providing your home with attractive, reliable and resilient solar outdoor lights. You can choose between their two models, the GS-122 without the motion sensor or the GS-122-PIR with the motion sensor.
The Gama Sonic solar light runs completely with just the energy from the sun. One of the reasons why I am recommending this to you is because this light is energy-efficient and eco-friendly. Even during a power outage, it can still provide your home with bright illumination.
The powerful monocrystalline silicon solar panel of this solar light efficiently absorbs energy from the sun. Even when it is cloudy outside, the panels can still generate its own power. But what I really like about the panels is that it can be placed independently from the light itself. You can place the panel as far as 8 feet from its light and position it where it can receive maximum sun exposure.
These lights have a rust-resistant cast-aluminum material. Its solar panel is protected by a weather-resistant tempered glass. I can assure you that this light can withstand outside conditions and will last for a long period.
I also like how you can easily install these lights. They provide you with an instruction manual without the need to call for a professional to do the job. I find this light very convenient. You don’t need to trouble yourself with turning the lights on/off because it does that by itself. It automatically lights up when it gets dark and charges itself at daytime.
The bright LEDs of the GS-122 model shines at 100 lumens while the GS-122-PIR model shines regularly at 75 lumens and brightens to 150 lumens for 45 seconds after some movement is detected within its 15 feet perimeter. I really like how it is just the right amount of light and not a bother to the eyes.
You don’t need to look far for a stylish light fixture. The rustic look of the Gama Sonic solar light and with the matte brown powder-coated finish, this light is perfect for adding a sophisticated touch for your outdoors.
To top all of those amazing features, these solar lights have a 2-year warranty so you can be confident with your purchase.
Hikeren Solar Lights (Outdated)
- Consist of brighter 30 LEDs
- Quality certified
- 100% money back warranty within 60-days and 36 month warranty if problems arise with the solar lamps
- Waterproof
- Made of durable ABS plastic
- Charging speed is depend on the weather condition
Another top-tier value outdoor lighting is manufactured by Hikeren. Their solar light is a favorite among smart shoppers due to its wide lighting range and flexible installation. You’ll learn more about its outstanding features through this review.
As I’ve mentioned above, the Hikeren solar lights has a larger lighting capacity. Three-meter patch cords of said lights can provide illumination for every corner of the garden, post, fence, pillars and pathways.
I am really amazed upon knowing that it has a numerous 30 LEDs that are ultra-bright. It can provide ultimate glow into an area with a 180 degrees motion angle. But if you like to rest your eyes because too much light can be overwhelming at times, this Hikeren lights is perfect for you. Solar lights is dimmable so you can mellow its shade depend on your mood.
Another reason I recommend the Hikeren outdoor solar lights is its independence from electricity source. It gains power straight from the sunlight. If you notice, it has a unique solar panel separated from the lamp. It has a good overall design that makes it more functional and convenient to use. You might want to take a second look at it if you want your solar porch light to have these features and benefits.
Said solar panel is made of polycrystalline silicon. It means fast charging for up to 20% to ensure that the lamps never lose energy when it is most needed in dark times. It stores power during the daytime through a 4400mAh battery to allow the solar lights to function up to 18 hours.
The Hikeren outdoor solar lights are also made resilient against heavy rains and other weather conditions. I appreciate that the entire housing is made of strong ABS plastic; hence, it is IP65 waterproof. It is also very easy to mount in any space with good exposure to the sun.
To make you feel more secure, Hikeren solar lights is humbly certified by FCC, ROSH and CE, MSDS and UN38.3. It is not just it passed quality standards, all valued customers may also enjoy triple the most suitable customer service from Hikeren. It offers a full refund policy within 60 days in case the lamp doesn’t work plus a 36-month warranty and 24-hour reliable assistance from their customer service.
QWOO Solar Lights (Outdated)
- Durable construction
- Unique design
- High conversion rate
- Easy installation
- Excellent customer service
- May be a bit dim
The QWOO solar lights are encased in a solid and durable ABS plastic material that is designed to withstand various weather conditions. It has an IP64 rating, making it both heat and waterproof. Aside from weather, these lights are also resistant to rust and dust. What I like most is that because of this heavy-duty casing, you can use and install these lights anywhere without worry.
Moreover, the QWOO solar lights have a wide solar panel that comes in 2 volts and 0.7 watts. Along with this is the rechargeable and replaceable 1200 MAH battery. For me, this is actually a good combination. With its features, the solar panel boasts a high conversion rate, meaning that you can charge and store electricity faster.
On the other hand, the 1200 capacity of the battery stores enough electricity for all night-use. Charging usually takes about 6-8 hours.
The QWOO solar lights come in 2 pieces that have 10 LED bulbs. Each LED bulb gives a brightness of 9 lumens, adding to a total of 90 lumens. If fully charged, the QWOO solar lights works for about 6-10 hours, depending on the lighting mode.
If you were using the dim mode, then the light would last for about 8-10 hours while the full brightness mode only gives light for about 6-8 hours.
These solar lights are also equipped with a light-sensing system. As soon as dusk comes, the lights automatically turn on. Likewise, it automatically turns itself off at dawn and starts charging.
The QWOO solar lights also boast a simple yet unique design. Its shape allows it to render the brightest possible light while also enhancing the surrounding area. For me, I think it gives off a kind of charming and homey vibe that will surely improve your home’s aesthetic.
The design of the solar light for front door also makes it super easy to install since it also comes with a set of screws and hinges. There is no wiring required since these are solar lights.
Aside from that, the QWOO solar lights are backed up by a responsive customer service and support team. The product comes with various warranties and guarantees such as 1-year warranty and a 90-days money-back guarantee.
If you have any complaints and qualms, you can just contact customer support and they’ll be happy to assist you.
What I don’t like about this product is that it’s a bit too dim, especially when you’re using this for security purposes. Nonetheless, many users were satisfied with their purchase. They were impressed by the item’s durable and aesthetic design. The also like the ambience the lights give to the atmosphere to the place.
The QWOO solar lights is worth considering if you are looking for a warm, white glow encased in a high-quality, beautiful design. They’re also heavy-duty in performance and look stylish to match any outdoor design.
LITOM Original Solar Lights Outdoor (Outdated)
- Three optional settings available
- Wide-angle coverage
- Can be used outdoor and on any weather conditions
- Waterproof IP65 rating
- Easy to set up
- Not as bright as other models are
The solar powered front door light is one of the top recommendations among homeowners, hotel owners and resort operators when shopping around for this product. The LITOM original outdoor lights are trendy yet classic in appeal. It is one of my top recommendations when it comes to porch or outdoor lights because of its design and brightness, too.
One of the things that impress me much about the front door lights is its optional modes available in three settings. It gives us the freedom and chance to use it the way we like it. And yes, versatility is a great feature not to miss when comparing such kind of products. So if you would like your solar lights to have that, you should not miss but check out the LITOM solar lights.
Another thing I would like to commend about the outdoor lights is that they are by a top brand. It is a world-renowned leader in terms of innovation and reliability of their solar products.
This brand focuses in providing its consumers with great lighting for their outdoor spaces. In fact, I found out that this brand was able to sell more than five million lights and counting.
This product is also a top seller in the category for solar light outdoor. One of the things that people liked about the solar lighting is its wider and brighter lighting, and that is thanks to the newest energy management chip and LED technology LITOM has used in designing it.
In addition, the porch lights can offer up to 50 percent increased area illumination due to its top technology. A light can cover up to 200 sq. feet, which is a plus when shopping around for this kind of product.
I would like to note that the product could offer us with an all-night operation. At day, it can absorb sun energy to convert to electricity that could be used at night to work.
When it comes to improving security, I would also like to recommend the product that can light up to 20 seconds when motion is detected.
More so, the time of lighting will be longer if the motion happened once again while light is provided. This feature means that we can have lighting for use all night.
There are also three working modes available, making it reliable for different usage situations. Another thing worth mentioning about the solar lights is that they are rated for a long lifespan up to three years.
On the cons, the light is not as bright as other lights on the market are. But overall, it is reliable, elegant and easy to install. This product is also made of high quality materials, ensuring it can keep up with the changing weather conditions and outdoor elements.
Choosing it, you can look forward to long-term use and performance. So if you want your outdoor lighting to have all these features, you might want to check out the LITOM solar lights.
Why You Should Trust Us
CleanEnergySummit.org is a team of clean energy, like wind and solar power, enthusiasts. We believe that each person can make a difference to make this world a better and cleaner place to live by using clean energy products like solar porch lights.
Trusting us, you can be certain that you’ll make a better decision because we’re supportive of solar energy products such as lighting solutions that can help us make our outdoor space brighter but without adding to our energy bills.
Referring to our guide, you can also rest assured that you’d be able to pick only reliable brands and solar-powered front porch light models because we implement a systematic process in choosing the products to review. We selected top picks by considering the things to look for when buying this kind of lighting.
In the reviews, we have highlighted the lights’ pros and cons along with their top-tier features. In this case, you can make a better comparison when studying your options on what to buy.
We do hope that you’ll make a great decision in finding your solar lights after reading today’s reviews.
What Is A Solar Porch Light And Who This Is For
Because of the rising environmental pollution and crisis, experts are pushing renewable energy as a solution. There is no doubt that the industrial production of energy is using all of our resources rapidly, that is why it is not as sustainable and, in the future, it may cause problems of a larger scale.
This is why solar energy is a great, environmentally friendly alternative. It is an effective energy source that can be used in numerous places, even in your own home.
Solar porch lights are made so that houses can still have their lights without having to use electrical wirings that can add up to the household’s electrical bill and cause danger especially during bad weather.
A solar porch light is powered by sunlight, so it stores and uses its own energy. It is an inexpensive and easy way to put lights in your patio, porch or in any part of your home.
These porch lights are ideal for those who want to brighten their homes without having to go through the hassle of installing outlets and wires. Solar porch lights are also ideal for those who want to add color to their patio, porch, balcony and other parts of their home.
How Does It Work
A solar light works because of the photovoltaic effect; it is the most important part of a solar light. The photovoltaic or solar cell is the part of the light that can convert sunlight into an electrical current.
You can see the solar cell in the lights because it is a dark panel placed at the top of the solar light.
The cell consists of different layers of chemicals and crystalline silicone that makes layers of positively charged spaces and negatively charged electrons.
As the solar energy passes, it activates the electrons, and it pushes it into the positively charged spaces.
The positively charged spaces then move the electron stream as electricity through wires that are in the cell to a battery where power is kept until the solar lights are used.
The battery of the charges of the light in the morning until sunlight can be converted into electricity.
In the evenings, the cell stops storing the energy from the sunlight because it weakens and disappears.
A photoreceptor detects when there is no sunlight anymore, and it turns the light on automatically, which is made up of LEDs. The battery supplies electricity to the light all through the night.
During rainy days and winter, the solar light may not be able to get enough sunlight to charge the battery fully and to make it stay lit all evening.
This happens because during rainy days, there is little sunlight, and during winter, the nights are longer and the days are shorter; thus, there is fewer hours of sunlight to charge the battery fully.
What Are The Different Types Of Solar Porch Lights
There are different types of solar front porch lights. One of the most common solar porch lights is the wall mount type, much like the Gama Sonic GS-122 Barn. This type of porch light has a gooseneck design mounted on the wall. It has an external solar panel and LED white lights.
Since it is activated through solar energy, it turns on in the evening and turns off in the morning automatically. Another type of solar porch light is the spotlight type, like the GoerTek Solar Lights Outdoor.
It can be installed on the ground or mounted on the walls; this light works like a spotlight and is very bright. This type of light is used to focus on a certain area in your home.
The bollard is a type of solar porch light that has short units, and they are usually mounted on the ground.
The lights will emit from either the sides of the top, and they are used to illuminate not just the porch but also the steps, pathways, or walkways.
Bollards come with many elegant options that are made from metal and concrete.
The decorative type of solar porch light is not just used to illuminate areas in your home, but they can also be used to add style and aesthetic in the area where you install them.
There are numerous styles available in the market, and you can choose the style that most suits your home.
If you wish to get a decorative solar light, you must remember that since they are made to be an attractive addition to your house, a lot of them glow instead of illuminating bright lights.
This is why they are only good for decoration but not a great option for providing light on your porch, yard, pathway, or walkway.
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Solar Porch Lights
The most efficient and renewable source of energy is solar power, and the outdoor solar porch lights are used by people for outdoor lighting that does not require electricity use.
With the development of different types of technologies, numerous uses of renewable source of energy are being created.
The solar light is one of the most effective uses of solar energy, and it is also one of the largest industries in the world.
The rise in the demand for these products is because of two factors: saving money and controlling environmental pollution. There are a lot of advantages and disadvantages linked with solar lights.
One of the advantages of solar lights is zero energy costs. As solar lights get their energy from sunlight, it can work without electricity.
It is used in pathways, walkways, parking lots, and other areas where lighting is needed all the time. It can help you save energy and money.
Solar lights are also low maintenance. These systems are known to last for a long time because it does not need much maintenance or repairs.
The system of solar lights gets its power from the sun, and it recharges automatically every day. But the panels of these systems need to be cleaned at least once a week to avoid the accumulation of dirt.
These lights are also environmentally friendly because they do not use chemicals or gases to create energy. They get their energy from sunlight, and it is considered safe for humans.
There are also no wires needed because each light has a rechargeable battery and a photovoltaic panel. The lights can be installed easily, and you do not need to call a professional for the lights to be installed.
Even though these lights have many advantages, there are also disadvantages that you need to take note of. The most common disadvantage of using solar lights is the initial cost of buying one.
Solar lights are expensive, even though it requires less maintenance and repairs. It is considered as a huge investment to change the lighting systems.
Also, the batteries of these systems depend so much on the energy from the sun. There are instances wherein the weather is not great enough for your lights to be able to store energy, like storms and overcast skies.
They prevent your light’s battery from recharging. Solar lights are ideal for places where they can get an ample amount of sunlight. There are also solar lights that only glow, but do not give the brightness that you need. These types of lights are for decorative purposes, so it is top-rated to watch out for those.
Nevertheless, you can choose from one of the featured products we have above so that you can make a better decision. These lights are by reputable brands and are made of quality and durable materials.
At the end of the day, solar porch lights offer plenty of benefits that outweigh any cons of such products. They are energy saving and provide better security to households, resorts and other places where they’re installed for lighting.
How We Picked And Tested
Solar lights are affordable and eco-friendly and you do not have to worry about setting up any wiring and other electronics to make it work.
For a solar led porch light, there are many choices that you will encounter.
As for the design, you can go with whatever solar lights would match your home’s aesthetic, but that not the only thing that is important.
There are numerous features that you need to consider before buying a solar porch light.
Lighting functions
The light’s function is the biggest part that you must consider in purchasing solar lighting. The more functions that the lights offer, the more expensive it is. Also, if you want an atmospheric light, it will just glow instead of giving a bright light that you may need at night.
LED lights with motion sensors can give you the right level of brightness, so they are ideal for pathways, walkways, garage, and patios.
Lighting effects
After researching about the descriptions of solar lights, you may have noticed that a lot of them claim to create a cozy and amber glow, which is great for highlighting some parts of your home.
On the other hand, LED solar lights are made to give a brighter light and long-lasting brightness. These effects are used for security and safety purposes because they keep your home’s pathway lit.
It is also important to pay attention to the hue because all solar lights nowadays would use LED bulbs and their light is mostly bright white shade.
So, in case you need incandescent bulbs, look for those with tinted covers. They are mostly labeled as soft white lights or amber glow.
Brightness
Most of the solar lights use LED bulbs, and the brightness is measured by lumens. This factor depends on light to light, because some solar lights produce only 15 to 35 lumens, which gives warm and soft lighting.
Some models produce 700 to 800 lumens, which gives brighter and harsher lighting.
If you need lights for security purposes, it is most useful to get those with brighter lights. They are most suitable for pathways, walkways, and driveways.
Meanwhile, gardens, ponds, and other landscapes are better with gentle, softer lights because it adds a bit of decor.
Battery type and capacity
It is most useful to know which kind of battery must be used for the solar light. Some solar-powered batteries should be exposed to the sun so it could be fully charged.
Some models can recharge even when they are not fully exposed to the sun.
It is also important to consider the capacity of the battery; it is not an excellent choice to go with the one that can’t work for more than 8 hours especially if you want to purchase solar lights for security purposes.
Intelligent feature
There are intelligent lights available in the market, and they have more up-to-date processors that can adapt to the surrounding.
A solar bollard light has a microprocessor that can adjust the light output solely based on weather patterns.
Basically, the more intelligent the lights are, the more functional they will be. If the lights can adjust based on the surrounding environment, it can save solar energy so it can last longer.
These models will be more expensive, but they offer you more functions. If your budget allows you to get one, it is most suitable to do so.
Get what you paid for
The brightness of your solar lights can be affected by the brightness of the sun and the amount of daylight that it is exposed to.
The brightness is also based on the PV cell’s quality and the size of the light’s LED bulbs. Decent PV cells and bigger bulbs would cost more.
It is safe to say that expensive solar lights work better and they produce brighter light.
Once you choose the right solar lights for you, make sure that you clean them regularly to help expand their battery life.
A dusty solar panel will have difficulties in charging the battery. Even though solar lights are capable of handling weather conditions, you still need to store the lights indoors during winter.
But if you purchased lights with glass solar panels, it is most suitable to turn them off during extreme weather to save their batteries.
You can also put them away on dark sites or in closed containers. You can also replace the batteries once every two years to ensure bright lights.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many lumens does a bright solar porch light need?
For illumination purposes, a solar porch lamp should have 200 to 400 lumens to enhance visibility. Ideally, the solar entry light needs to offer a lumen rating of 400 to make it safer to access the front door.
That said, accent lights for decorating the decks or fences can have lumen ratings as low as 5. You’re recommended to combine various types of lighting for a bright solar porch.
Are 300 lumens bright enough for outside?
Three hundred lumens is bright enough for most landscape or outdoor purposes. For example, pathway lights and step lights only require about 100 lumens to guide folks moving along these areas. Similarly, solar outdoor porch lights only need to shine about 200 to 400 lumens to ensure safer access to the front door.
Wall lights have variable lumen ratings (from 50 to 185), depending on how much landscape texture you want to showcase in the landscape. Most homeowners use 300-lumen lighting fixtures to showcase their landscape features.
However, 300 lumens might be insufficient for floodlights or security lights. The ideal for these lighting fixtures is 700 lumens.
How long do solar porch lights last?
Like any solar-powered lighting fixture, solar lights for porch units feature four fundamental parts. Solar panels collect photons and transform them into DC electricity for storage in batteries that power the light bulb via a simple circuit.
Solar panels vary in lifespan depending on the type. For instance, polycrystalline photovoltaic panels have a 20- to 35-year operating expectancy. Meanwhile, monocrystalline versions last longer by five to ten years.
Most solar lights have LED bulbs with a minimum lifespan of 50,000 hours. More advanced LEDs can double the longevity, potentially serving your family for the next 27 years when used for ten hours nightly.
Batteries have the shortest lifespan among solar light components. Lithium units can power solar lights for only two to three years, while nickel-metal hydride batteries can extend it to five.
What are the most trusted solar porch light brands?
Choosing among the tons of available brands is time-consuming and overwhelming. For this reason, we’ve picked the top brands for solar porch lights so that you can make a better decision as to which is the most dependable of all. A few of them include the ITOM, iThird, Gama Sonic and ALOVECO. For the rest of them, you can refer to our buying guide earlier.
Are solar porch lights weatherproof?
Yes, the solar powered porch lights are specifically created for outdoor exposure. They can deal with all types of weather and commonly have waterproof abilities. They can keep up with harsh weathers and extreme outdoor conditions.
Do these lights need direct sun to charge?
Yes, they do. As they’re solar-powered, they’re sun dependent for operation. That is why you need to install them in places where they can receive enough sunlight for charging at daytime. For this reason, they might not be ideal to install in dim and shady spots where they could not receive sun energy.
Do these lights automatically turn on/off?
Yes, these light turn on automatically at night and off at day. It adds to the convenience of use of such lights that do not add anything to our monthly electricity bill.
What is the warranty?
There is no one warranty for all manufacturers. Some of them may offer only 1-year warranty and the others up to three years. Thus, warranties are not the same across all manufacturers and models.
What are the most trusted places to buy?
You can find these solar lights in clean energy stores, home supplies shops and other places where to buy lighting solutions. But if you want the most suitable deals, you might want to check out Amazon, the largest online marketplace to find and buy the best solar porch lights. It offers top-tier deals at affordable prices and by reputable brands themselves.
How to install and use?
There is no special installation required to start using the solar porch lights because they’re wireless. They don’t need any electrical wires to set up. But nevertheless, you can check the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific lighting you ended up buying.
How to care & maintain?
These products require low maintenance. Once you set them up, all you have to do is to check them occasionally and wipe with a damp cloth. Other than that, you don’t have to perform much maintenance on them.
Conclusion
Overall, the best solar porch lights are valuable additions for our properties, residential or commercial. They’re low in maintenance and easy to set up. As they don’t need wirings, they can be installed anywhere you deemed light is necessary for decorative or security purposes. They are versatile lighting solutions that you can count on for anywhere installation.
These products are also energy saving and efficient. They can turn on at night and off at day automatically without you having to do anything.
In order to get started choosing the right porch lights, you can get started referring to our guide with the top 10 picks and features to consider when shopping around. Buy your porch or outdoor solar lights today!
Hi, I am Eddie, Cleanenergysummit’s content editor. It’s so much joy to work alongside Justin, as the idea of providing knowledge about using clean energy excites us.
I’ve been working to address any concerns or questions you may have as you transition to using solar electricity to power your home. Tune in to hear our advice and suggestions on anything clean energy. Welcome!