How Do I Choose The Best Security Lighting For My Needs
Security lighting can protect you from bad guys or it can protect you from yourselfor it can do both!
If you’re looking for something that will scare off an intruder, choose a bright, motion-activated light that you can mount up high, preferably with a night light mode to keep it on all evening.
If you’re more worried about seeing your way in the dark, smaller, less powerful lights should serve you just fine. Mount them along fences, railings, and walkways to light up your path at night.
Frequently Asked Questions: Solar Flood Lights
Do solar flood lights really work?
As long as they have consistent daylight for at least a few hours, solar flood lights work exceptionally well. They utilize the same sensor technology as their wired counterparts but require no wiring and have an overall simpler installation thanks to their built-in solar panels.
What is the brightest solar LED flood light?
TBI Pro Super-Bright Outdoor Solar Lights have an impressive 2,500-lumen output. These are some of the best solar flood lights if brightness is your top priority.
How long do solar-powered flood lights last?
As far as runtime, most solar flood lights provide uninterrupted lighting for 8 to 12 hours. Assuming a solar light has no defects and is installed and used as intended, a solar flood light battery will last 3 to 4 years before needing replacement. Other components of a solar flood light can last up to a decade or more.
What is the most powerful solar security light?
TBI Pro Super-Bright Outdoor Solar Lights are the most powerful solar LED security lights on our list.
Christian Yonkers is a writer, photographer, filmmaker, and outdoor junkie obsessed with the intersectionality between people and planet. He partners with brands and organizations with social and environmental impact at their core, assisting them in telling stories that change the world.
Greluna Solar Powered Porch Lights 8 Pack
Greluna is also another Amazon retailer with a slightly more diverse product range. In addition to solar lighting, they also offer flameless LED candles. The Greluna lights are sold in packs of eight and are available in white or yellow variants.
A selling point of the Greluna solar lights is its dual operation mode. You have the warm mode option, where you get either warm white or warm amber depending on the color variant you pick. You also have the color-changing mode, where the lights change into different bright colors. The second mode is great for adding a festive cheer to your front porch, especially during the holiday season.
Another admirable feature of the Greluna is its antique design, which would fit most front porch designs. Its a great classic decorative lighting for any home, be it modern or traditional in design.
Its not only pretty, but its also strong and made to last, too. It is made of high-quality ABS material that is waterproof, heat-resistant, and frost-resistant.
The Greluna wall lights are powered by rechargeable 1.2 bolt AA batteries that take about six hours to fully charge. The average maximum working time is around eight hours, which is pretty impressive considering its relatively small size.
Perhaps a drawback to the Greluna solar lights is that they are not necessarily the brightest set of porch lights out there. They also dont have motion sensors, so theyre not an option if youre after security.
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Advantages And Disadvantages Of Solar Powered Solar Motion Security Lights
In the following, let us talk about the pros and cons of using solar motion security lights that you might want to know, as youre shopping around for these sensor lights.
Off the grid
One of the main advantages of using motion security lights is its independence to conventional power sources. It can run on free solar energy, which is then converted to electrical energy stored in the battery.
The off the grid lighting solution is free forever. It does not add to your monthly bills. For this reason, it might be yours if you want to save on money and use a practical to use solar light that does not require dependence on fossil fuel.
Versatile
The lights are also versatile. Motion sensor lights are not only for security lighting but also for enhancing the appearance of your landscape. It can be used in your patio, garden, yard and wall, to name some.
Functional
The light also works efficiently because it is functional, and it can be used in improving the security of your outdoor space. It can work and turn on automatically when it detects motion, enhancing the security of your property. So when an intruder or a criminal tries to sneak into your property, the motion sensor light will turn on.
Aesthetic appeal
The solar lighting also enhances the appeal of your landscape. It looks classic/modern, depending on the solar motion light you have chosen.
Best Led: Lepower 35w Led Security Light Motion Sensor
Amazon
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No dusk-to-dawn mode
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No always-on option
The LEPOWER 35W LED Security Light Motion Sensor is exceptionally bright, has a great sensor range and detection angle, and is ready to stand up to the elements with a solid IP65 weatherproof rating. It also pumps out 3,500 lumens from three huge LED panels, two of which are adjustable, so we recommend it as the best LED motion sensor light.
This light has a massive 72-foot sensor range directly in front of the sensor. That falls off to the sides, but you can aim the sensor to create an optimal detection area. If you don’t need that wide a range, the sensitivity is adjustable. The LEPOWER also has three huge LED panels that can remain on for up to 10 minutes after activation. The only catch is that it doesn’t have a dusk-to-dawn or always-on mode, so it works better as a security light than a floodlight.
Dimensions: 14 x 8.3 x 5.2 inches | Range: 72 feet | Detection Angle: 180 degrees | Wattage: 35 watts | Power Source: AC
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Aootek 182 Led Solar Outdoor Motion Sensor Light
The Aootek 182 LED Solar Outdoor Motion Sensor Light is a straightforward choice for the best outdoor motion sensor lights. Thanks to its three modes, which include Permanent, Security, and Smart to cover all your outdoor light needs and give you some variety. Additionally, it uses PIR technology that is reliable, while the wide-angle and ultra-bright lights make sure that anyone trying to creep onto your property is blinded in their tracks. The high-efficiency solar panel absorbs lots of sunlight to keep them working throughout the year, and the rechargeable battery also helps with this. It is waterproof and durable, guaranteeing years of safety, security, and peace of mind.
How We Reviewed Solar Security Lights
We researched the top solar-powered security lights on the market and studied the pros and cons of each to narrow down our list to the best of the best.
To understand how we rank and review products, visit our methodology page. To find out more about how to beef up the outdoor security around your home, check out our guide to the best outdoor security cameras.
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Qwoo Solar Front Porch Lights 2 Pack
QWOO is also an Amazon retailer but without a specific product niche. This is because their product offerings include desk fans, solar lights, selfie sticks, and more.
The QWOO falls on the relatively affordable price range when it comes to the solar porch light market. This, including the fact that they have an excellent warranty, was why they made it to our list. QWOO offers a 90-day money-back guarantee and a 12-month free replacement warranty on this particular product. This is always a great reassurance when making online purchases, so you know you can always get them replaced when you get faulty ones.
Hopefully, you may not need to, however. As the QWOO solar lights are meant to be of high-quality materials. They are also IP64 certified, which means they are waterproof and all sorts of weatherproof.
In terms of battery, this brand of solar porch lights is powered by 1200 mAh lithium-ion batteries. An average charge time is about 8 hours, and this should achieve a working time of 8-10 hours.
The only thing you need to know about the QWOO solar lights is that its meant to be warm-colored lights. Therefore, it wont be too bright if glaring brightness is what you are after. It also doesnt have a motion sensor, and the environment needs to be relatively dark for the light to be triggered.
In short, the QWOO is a good choice if youre after a relatively affordable porch light with the most basic features.
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Summarized Tips On Why You Should Buy From An Online Marketplace
In the year 2022, you have a multitude of options everytime you look to buy a new product. You have traditional retailers, department stores, online marketplaces, etc. We believe that for your next purchase, you should seriously consider online marketplaces.
Online platforms come with loads of facilities designed to make your entire shopping experience better. They are reputable, well regarded, and provide you with the opportunity to shop from your home and get the best deals.
A very important thing you get when buying from an online platform is flexibility and convenience. In our busy lives, it is quite hard to find the time to visit a physical store. Meanwhile, you can buy anything you want, including solar motion sensor outdoor lights from an online store, while you are taking a break at work or doing your chores.
As it should be clear to you by now, there are a multitude of benefits when you go with an online platform over physical stores. Some of the benefits are summarized below in a few key points:
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Why Trust The Spruce
This article was written by Jeremy Laukkonen, a freelance writer and product tester for The Spruce. Hes had experience installing and using motion sensor lights around his own homes and business for over 20 years. In addition to The Spruce, his reviews can be found in other outlets, including Lifewire and DigitalTrends.
Relying on firsthand experience, tests performed by The Spruce, and research, Jeremy considered ease of use and installation, brightness, detection range and angle, and several other factors to identify the best outdoor motion sensor lights. To gain a better understanding of what to look for in outdoor motion sensor lights, Jeremy also spoke with Edward Jones, a home lighting expert and founder of HomeCareHow. Using those expert insights into the best brightness for different applications and different use cases for outdoor motion-sensing lights, he was able to identify the best general use lights and great options for specific areas like pathways and stairs.
Q: How Do Outdoor Motion Sensor Lights Work
A: Wireless outdoor motion sensor lights work like any other type of motion sensor product, and its almost certain you have encountered lights like this before. However, just because you have encountered them before and have an idea of how they work doesnt mean you actually know how they work. Unfortunately, they sense motion and switch on, is not a sufficient answer, so whats really going on with motion sensor lights?
To put it simply, motion sensor lights use little eyes that identify infrared waves. When something that radiates heat, such as a person, cat, dog, rabbit, or any other type of animal, and cars, moves within range of these lights, the sensors recognize the movement. This triggers an activation that switches the lights on.
However, the sensors have a finite range, so dont expect to trigger the lights from across the street. Instead, there are sensor ranges. The maximum range for a motion sensor is typically around 72 feet, although this varies by brand.
Motion sensor lights come with both positives and negatives. They are useful for lighting the path after dark, and they are also useful for stopping potential thieves in their tracks. Despite this, they can also be a nuisance, such as when neighborhood cats or dogs trigger the sensors, which can be irritating, especially if the light is bright enough to illuminate the entire street at unsociable hours.
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How To Choose The Best Solar
A single doorway doesnt need 2,500 lumens, nor is a single solar-powered flood light sufficient for lighting up a driveway. Before choosing the best solar-powered flood light, consider the following factors:
- Brightness: In general, brighter is better, but if you only need to light a small area, you might not have to fork over the extra cash for a higher-output unit. If you want to cover a large area with a single bright light, go for at least 1,600 lumens. Or, install multiple lights with a smaller output.
- Features: Todays solar-powered flood lights are ripe with features. Most have multiple brightness settings and weatherproofing as standard features, but consider other important elements such as remote controls, adjustable/modular solar panels, tilt and pan adjustments for lights and sensors, and metal constructions. As always, the more features, the higher the price, but the investment will be worth it.
- Durability: All of our picks are waterproof, but you may want a light thats truly built to last. The RuoKid Solar Street Light has an all-metal design and is made to take a beating. Look for weatherproof lights that will hold up through multiple seasons.
- Ease of installation: Compared to their wired counterparts, solar-powered flood lights are a breeze to install. Some require more assembly and mounting than others, so if youre not on friendly terms with your toolbox, pick a solar flood light that requires little more than a screw to install.
How We Picked And Tested
If youre shopping around for a good motion sensor light, you probably know by now that there are so many brands and models, along with different features each of them has. To what you really need, it pays off that you check for the factors to look into. Keep reading and take a look closely.
Range or coverage
You might want to consider a motion sensor light if you would like to improve your property or home security.
The lights are easy to install and a breeze to use. More importantly, they can prevent intruders and unwanted people from sneaking into your garage, porch, front door and other outdoor spots.
In this case, you might want to check if the light can detect movement that is located as far away as possible or that is within the corresponding feet of coverage.
Intensity of the light
How bright is the light intensity you need? Remember that the amount of light that it can generate is also important especially if youre also looking for a sensor light that can keep illuminating an area.
To start with, you should refer to the lumens capacity of the product you want to buy, and compare with the others. One basic rule of thumb is that higher lumens mean brighter light.
Weatherproofing
The solar lights to buy must have waterproofing and weatherproofing abilities, as they will be exposed to harsh outdoor elements, such as rain and snow.
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Capacity of the battery
Flexibility
Lifespan
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Why Does A Solar Light Have A Battery
As the light’s solar panel sucks up energy from the sun, it has to have somewhere to store it until it gets dark, so solar lights use a rechargeable battery to bank the energy.
But just like the rechargeable battery in your phone, over time the battery in your solar light will start to deteriorate and not hold a charge very well.
If you notice that your solar light isn’t staying on as long as it used to, trying putting in a fresh battery. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to make sure you get the right battery for your light.
Ameritop Solar Motion Sensor Lights
The AmeriTop solar motion sensor lights are ideal for front gate security for their exceptional brightness. See motions and their causes as clearly as broad daylight, and do not worry about weathers and seasons with this modern style light.
Features
Wide Angle Design
This light incorporates not only the wide-angle design for immense day-like light but also extensive solar energy absorption. This wide design increases the lights surface area, allowing it to have a larger motion sensor area covering about 16-26 feet. The lights design works as a productivity, efficiency, and effectiveness advantage.
Weather Resistance
Do not worry about the longevity of your outdoor light when it is made of materials meant to last. Made of ABS plastic, this light is completely corrosion-free, scratch and impact resistant. With an IP65 rating, this light will withstand water, rain, sleet, and snow without issues.
Ultra-Bright
As a floodlight, this product has to be extremely illuminating. However, it is worth mentioning that the 128 bulbs can come together to offer 800 lumens of light. Therefore, no matter how minuscule the object of detection might be, this light will not miss it.
Smart On/Off Functions
The motion and light detection in these lights allow them to turn on as soon as its dark and theres motion. No more will you waste precious energy throughout the day when theres plenty of motion but no need for your floodlights to get triggered.
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Brimmel Solar Front Porch Lights
Brimmel is an Amazon retailer of outdoor solar lighting technologies.
Design is the winning feature of the Brimmel outdoor solar porch light. It comes in a simple yet elegant-looking rectangular lantern-like lighting fixture meant to mount on walls. The design elements are neutral and minimalistic. It will suit any type of front porch design.
The second thing that drew our attention towards the Brimmel was its impressive battery life. Powered by a single lithium-ion battery, it only requires 6-8 hours of direct sunlight exposure to achieve a full charge. This full charge lasts the unit a maximum illumination time of 10 hours.
Brightness-wise, the Brimmel outdoor solar wall lights are extremely bright at 600 lumen capacity at its brightest. If youre only after dim lighting, dont be too quick to dismiss the Brimmel as it allows you to choose from three lighting modes. The always-on mode keeps a steady 60-lumen night from dusk till dawn. The second mode does the same but then increases to 25-seconds of a brighter 240-lumen once motion is sensed. Finally, there is the motion only mode where 600 lumens of light are activated once motion is detected.
Switching the lighting modes is also super easy because the light modes are located at the units front panel. The operation is very user-friendly without any complicated buttons or instructions.
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