How We Picked And Tested
Coming up with a comprehensive list of the best solar lanterns for outdoor use is challenging. One has to consider various factors to arrive at a wise buying decision. We tested the products included and reviewed in this guide based on the following parameters.
Overall Design
It is worth remembering that solar lanterns are mainly decorative. We do not want a lighting fixture similar to the AGPTek solar lantern. While we do not question its functionality, its form may not be ideal for improving landscape aesthetics.
That is why we picked only lanterns with exceptional designs. We included those with intricate light patterns and minimalist silhouettes. We considered various landscaping styles and included lanterns that can complement these designs. Most have a vintage look for adding rustic elegance to any outdoor setting, while some have a more contemporary design.
Solar Efficiency
We always place solar lanterns outdoor to get as much sunlight as possible. Hence, it makes no sense to pick a product with a mediocre energy conversion rating. That is why we try to include some solar powered lamps with a conversion rating of at least 18 percent.
One can gauge a solar systems efficiency by how fast it can charge a battery. Our cutoff for this purpose was eight hours of continuous direct sunlight. We did not include products that took longer to recharge.
Weatherproofing
Materials
Battery Runtime
Other Features
Jysk Canadas Most Popular Outdoor Lights
For those looking for a way to camouflage their outdoor lights, our ROCK LED solar light is the perfect solution, and one of our most popular outdoor solar lights. Another one of our popular outdoor lights is our SLYAN Solar Stake Light, which is all weather resistant and features 6 hours of warm white light when exposed to direct sunlight for 6-8 hours. And finally, we have our third most popular outdoor lights from JYSK: the solar powered MALTHE LED vine lights. Perfect for those who lack a green thumb, these string lights are intertwined with lush faux ivy leaves which create a beautiful outdoor ambiance for your backyard, patio, or balcony.
Whoever said you had to turn in once the sun goes down didnt know about the JYSK outdoor lights selection. For more inspiration for outdoor lights and patio furniture, check out our guides and blogs.
Maggift 2 Pack Hanging Outdoor Solar Lanterns
Key Features:
Designed and manufactured using iron and plastic materials with a white finish, the MAGGIFT 2 Pack Hanging solar lights provide a subtle and soft ambient glow to any patio or garden.
These hanging solar lights have decorative purposes and use three white light LED bulbs with a lighting capacity close to 4 lumens. These lantern lights feature an Arabic style that resembles other models from the Middle East.
Moreover, as a solar rechargeable LED lantern, the MAGGIFT pack uses a single AA 400mAh nickel-metal hydrate battery that, when its fully charged, is able to last for nearly 8 hours or more during the night. Also, they typically take between 6-8 hours to get charged when exposing the solar panels located on top of the lantern.
An interesting feature of this model is that the lights automatically turn on at dusk and off at dawn, which saves you energy every day and avoids the need to constantly turn the lantern lights on and off.
Also Check: Where Is Pine Sol Made
Solar Fluted Marker Light Ten Pack
RRP: £21.99
Cons:
- No on/off switch
Winner of a BBC Gardeners World Magazine Best Buy Award for Best Stake Lights, these lights are ideal for guiding the way or dotting through beds in the garden. The stylish design has a brushed steel finish, and the fluted plastic gives off a lovely star shaped glow around each light. Assembly is easy and each light just needs charging for 48 hours in a sunny spot before use. After this, turn them on and theyll light up as soon as the light fades, staying lit for up to six hours. Our one quibble is the absence of an on/off switch to override the automatic setting, so they will stay on late into the night. The pack generously includes ten lights, and comes with a one-year warranty, so overall theyre great value for money.
Dimensions: 36cm x 4.7cm
Buy the Solar Fluted Marker Light Ten pack from Crocus, The Glow Company, and Waitrose Garden
- Can be slow to switch on
- Conspicuous solar panel
Dimensions: 29.01cm x 9.5cm x 34.01cm
Buy the T-SUN LED Solar Spotlight from
Steadydoggie Js0310 Classic Bronze Solar Lantern
- Unique candle-in-a-housing design for a more elegant look
- Glass and metal construction for durability
- Clear glass for better light transmission
- Ideal for indoor and outdoor use
- Push-button power switch for improved control
- Stable on desks and tabletops
- Included battery is only 300mAh
- A bit expensive
I love the SteadyDoggie JS0310 solar lantern. It has a vintage design that can give the garden a more rustic and natural look.
Unlike other solar lanterns, this product has a synthetic candle inside a retro housing. The light flickers with its warm glow, giving a sense of being in a tropical resort where the only nighttime light sources are kerosene lamps and candles.
I also admire its durable all-metal and glass construction, unlike the plastic design of other solar powered lanterns. The bronze work is exceptional, lending the product a more authentic feel. The clear glass ensures better light transmission, illuminating a wider area in the garden.
One can use it indoors or outdoors, thanks to the lanterns large base and integrated handle for hanging. It will never tip over because it is heavy enough to secure itself in its place.
I like the addition of a push-button switch, perfect for deep-charging the device and improving its overall performance.
Read Also: How Long Are Solar Panels Good For
Intelligent Solar Polaris Bollard Post Light
RRP: £24.95
- Buy now from Glow.co.uk and
Pros:
- Made from aluminium, so wont rust
Cons:
- Comparatively expensive
- No on/off switch
The Solar Polaris Bollard Post Light comes almost entirely pre-assembled – you just need to attach the spike to the base of this light, peel off the plastic sticker protecting the solar panel, and its ready to place in position. Charge for 48 hours in the off position, and youre ready to go. Made from aluminium, which wont rust, this light feels solid and well-made. Its also designed to produce eight hours of light every night regardless of the weather, though expect the glow to be dimmer if its been overcast, as the battery wont have fully charged. Its worth noting you cant override the automatic on/off mode, which is an issue if youre concerned about disrupting wildlife or neighbours during the small hours. Unlike other post lights on test, the Polaris is sold individually rather than in packs, which means it becomes a pricey option if you need several lights to illuminate a path or drive, but it does come with a one-year warranty.
Dimensions: 49cm x 7cm x 7cm
Buy the Intelligent Solar Polaris Bollard Post Light from Glow.co.uk and
How To Place Solar Hanging Lanterns Around Your Backyard
There are three ways to placed hanging lanterns.
The first and most simple one is spreading them across the backyard in a sitting position. You dont have to worry, they wont fire up your garden. You can also sit them on small wooden boards installed on the walls.
The second one implies using the metal handles or loops to place them on the walls or exterior sides of the garden . You will have to install hooks or use moldable glue to hang them.
Finally, the last choice is using string lights designs by crossing wires through the backyard and hang the solar LED lanterns by using the clips or hooks on top of the lantern.
The choice is up to you and to your taste.
Also Check: How Much Would It Cost To Get Solar Panels
Outdoor Lights That Are Eco
If consuming less energy is important to you, JYSK solar lights and outdoor LED lights are a perfect outdoor lighting option. We carry a wide rage of outdoor lights and many of them come as solar lights and LED lights. Choose between, colour changing solar lights, solar lanterns, solar light stakes, LED string lights, and LED solar lights. Whatever you chose, JYSK outdoor lights help you create the look you while saving you money on your electric bills.
Lutec Solar Superspot Led Spike Light With Integrated Solar Panel
RRP: £17.00
Buy now from Wickes and Outdoor-Lights.co.uk
Pros:
Cons:
This tough, no-frills spotlight has a large solar panel that produces a bright white light ideal for uplighting a tree, illuminating a sign or positioning near a path or steps. Available in inconspicuous black, it just needs the stake and spike putting together and its ready to go. Theres a choice between steady light and flashing mode and a large on/off switch if you need to turn the light off when youre away, or at the end of the day. It comes with screws to give you the option of attaching it permanently to a deck but the bulbs in this light are not replaceable, so once theyre gone you will need to buy a new light, and this light has no warranty.
Dimensions: 15.6xm x 35.5cm x 10.2cm
Buy the Lutec Solar Superspot LED Spike Light with Integrated Solar Panel from Wickes and Outdoor-Lights.co.uk
Also Check: How To Start A Solar Panel Cleaning Business
Maggift Hanging Solar Lantern
This pair of solar-powered hanging lanterns melds style with affordability. The round outdoor lanterns feature ornate cut-outs that cast a pretty pattern when illuminated, and they provide up to eight hours of light when fully charged. Reviewers rave about how beautiful they are as accent lighting when placed around a garden.
My aunt and uncle gave me four of these for Christmas. I fell in love and ordered another four sets, writes Brian Rozzi, a verified Amazon reviewer. I have them decorating my perennial garden on one side of the house, my front garden and my stairs. They provide a soft, gentle light.
How Does It Work
Solar lanterns have four principal parts: solar panel, lighting fixture, enclosure, rechargeable batteries.
The integrated solar panel gathers light energy, converts the solar power to DC electricity, and stores the current in batteries. When the built in light sensor detects the absence of visible light, the solar panels stop working and automatically activates the light bulb or bulbs. The solar lights stay lit as long as there is power in the battery.
When there is light again, the solar panel kicks in to gather and store energy in the batteries while turning off the light.
Outdoor solar gardens are suitable for anyone who wants to add a more elegant look to their landscape at night. They are also cost-efficient, saving the household hundreds of dollars in landscape lighting-related electric bills annually.
Read Also: How Long Are Solar Panel Loans
Arzerlize Flickering Flame Solar Lantern
- Minimalist vintage design for aesthetics
- IP65 rating for enhanced dust and moisture protection
- High-capacity rechargeable battery for extended use
- Dual charging options solar and USB
- ABS plastic body
The issue with many outdoor solar lanterns for patio is that they only rely on sunlight to charge their batteries. The Arzerlize lantern does not limit ones battery recharging options to the sun. It also allows people to plug this solar lantern into an AC electrical outlet.
I find this feature ingenious, allowing homeowners in cloudy and sunless areas to enjoy this solar lanterns beautiful flickering effects. One can plug a USB cable into a port underneath the solar lantern and connect it to an electrical outlet.
This solar powered light has a large battery capacity of 1500mAh. Most solar lantern batteries I know have a 600mAh rating. The solar lanterns panels are also efficient in gathering light energy and charging the battery. Nonetheless, I still laud the company for including a USB port.
Many solar lanterns I know have an IP44 rating others do not have any. I am glad this product comes with an IP65 rating, giving owners confidence and a feeling of security, knowing this lighting fixture will never balk under the pressure of the elements.
I like the flickering light effects through the vintage brick-style housing. It has a minimalist design, perfect for hanging as string lights or a decorative piece on the table or cabinet top.
Things To Consider When You Buy Solar Lights
It should go without saying, but be prepared for your solar lights to struggle in the winter months or if you live in a particularly cloudy climate. The more sun they get, the longer they will last â ideal if you live somewhere like Phoenix, but not so much if you live in Seattle. The same goes for if you plan to place them in a particularly shaded location they may not give you the performance youâre hoping for.
Donât be seduced by the online images before you buy. These can make the bulbs look brighter and bigger than they actually are so look over the specs for accurate information. Be sure to check how many bulbs you actually get and the length of any cable, if you need it to cover a specific area.
Think about what tone of lighting you want in the garden as well. Most solar lights use LED bulbs which project a white light. Some may find this too harsh, especially if itâs lighting where you plan to entertain guests! If you want a warm or soft tone, invest in solar lights with tinted covers.
If youâre about to throw away your current lights, before doing so check they really are broken. If you donât have much sunny weather, they may be struggling to charge. Bring them indoors and leave them under your regular lights. This will actually charge them! Some also come with a USB charger which you can use.
Check out more of our appliance coverage:
Don’t Miss: Does Solar Still Work When Power Goes Out
The Best Solar Lights You Can Buy Today
Want to make your patio look like an outdoor bistro or Italian cafe? Brightechâs solar-powered string lights will do the trick. This string of LED bulbs are designed to look like retro Edison-style lights, which will cast a warm, gentle glow on your deck in the evening. The bulbs are made of shatterproof plastic, and are designed to withstand winds up to 50 miles per hour, as well as rain, snow, and temperatures up to 122 degrees Fahrenheit. When put to the test, these lights delivered in every respect here enduring two severe rainstorms, one tropical storm, heavy rainfall in a shower and four hours in the freezer, with no sign of damage.
The 12 Brightech Ambience Pro lights are connected on a 27-foot cord, with 20 inches between each light. . At the end is a solar panel, which can be clipped to a railing or some other platform, or staked into the ground. Thereâs no ambient light sensor, but the lights last for up to six hours on a full charge. The lights also come with a 3-year warranty.
These small flat disks lie flush with the ground, and provide accent lighting for garden beds and walkways. Each Aogist Solar Ground Light has a small 600 mAh battery that can provide illumination for up to eight hours. When we tested these solar lights, one didn’t work straight out of the box, which seems like an issue with quality control, but the other seven functioned effectively.
These lights are $30 apiece, but youâll also need the Ring Bridge to use them.
Warm White Carnival Solar Festoon Lights
RRP: £29.99
- Buy now from Lights4fun
Pros:
- Slow to turn on
These string lights are good quality and although the bulbs look like glass, theyre made of tough plastic and more than capable of holding up to accidental knocks. The solar panel is discrete, and theyre easy to control through an on/off switch and eight lighting modes. Theres also generous three metre lead of cable between the panel and the first light, so theres a lot of slack to play with when youre setting these up. However, despite being a white light we found these lights a little dim, especially from a distance. They could also sometimes be slow to turn on, and have a weather resistance rating of IP44.
Dimensions: 7.75m
Buy 20 Warm White Carnival Solar Festoon Lights from Lights4fun
You May Like: What’s The Cost Of Solar Panels
Set Of 2 Atlas Solar Spotlights
RRP: £39.99
- Buy now from Lights4Fun
Pros:
- Fiddly to set up
These lights are fiddly to set up, requiring them to be screwed into the solar panel as well as to the stakes. However, theyre hard-wearing and showed no signs of rust weathering after months outside. They offer fantastic brightness, but unlike some of the other spotlights we tested, theyre a golden colour, so theyre bright but never harsh to look at. We love the generous 4m cable, which means you have a lot of options with where you can put your lights. They switch on early, about half an hour after sunset, and look great in the dusk. We also love the generous two-year warranty. However, £40 is a lot of money for two solar lights.
Dimensions: 4cm x 4.5cm x 8cm for each light 17cm x 13cm solar panel 4m cable
Buy a Set of 2 Atlas Solar Spotlights from Lights4Fun
How We Tested The Best Solar Lights
We tested all of these lights over the course of a month at a coastal home in New England. To keep things consistent, we first unboxed all of them and left them outside to charge in various spots around the yard â in doing this, they would all receive the same amount of sunlight at the same angles. After a week, we placed each light in the freezer for four hours before dusk and then returned them to the yard to monitor which ones functioned as usual and how long they stayed illuminated. We also tested water resistance, rinsing each under a shower head for two minutes.
Following the initial tests, we installed each of the lights in appropriate positions to monitor how they stood up to various weather conditions. Over 14 days, each solar light was subjected to a tropical storm, hot and humid days, overcast days and rainy days. We monitored how well they stayed in place throughout.
Recommended Reading: Does Tesla Install Solar Panels
