Solar lights come in various forms, such as garden lights, street lamps, and security lights. They operate by converting sunlight into electrical energy during the day, storing it in batteries, and using it to light up at night. Solar lights are cost-effective, reduce carbon footprint, and are easy to install, making them a popular choice for sustainable lighting solutions.
Here are key factors to consider while buying best solar lights:
- Brightness: Measured in lumens, the brightness of solar lights is a crucial aspect of their effectiveness. Our selected products range from soft, ambient lighting (around 15 lumens) to more intense options suitable for security purposes (over 700 lumens).
- Battery Type and Capacity: The type and capacity of the battery determine how long the lights can operate on a single charge. Our picks include lights with lithium-ion or nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, boasting capacities sufficient for full-night illumination (ranging from 600mAh to 2000mAh).
- Solar Panel Type: The efficiency of the solar panel affects how well the light converts sunlight into energy. We have chosen lights equipped with monocrystalline or polycrystalline solar panels, known for their effective energy conversion rates, ensuring reliable lighting even after a day of indirect sunlight.
By evaluating these critical aspects, we’ve tailored our picks to accommodate diverse preferences and outdoor lighting requirements. For a well-informed choice, our “Buying Guide” stands ready to assist.
The 10 Best Solar Lights in 2024
| Solar Light Kits | Type of Solar Light | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aootek Led Solar lights | Outdoor Security Light | N.A | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| Baxia Technology Solar Lights | Outdoor Security Light | 6 Months | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| Brightech Solar Lights | Outdoor String Lights | 3 Years | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| InnoGear Solar Lights | Landscape Spotlights | N.A | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| Claoner Solar Lights | Outdoor Security Light | 1 Year | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| Amir Solar Lights | Outdoor String Lights | 1 Year | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| Tomcare Solar lights | Landscape Spotlights | 1 Year | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| Jackyled Solar Lights | Outdoor Landscape for Staircases | 1 Year | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| Oxyled Solar Lights | Landscape Decorative Lights | 1 Year | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
| Beau Jardin Solar Lights | Landscape Spotlights | 1 Year | Check On Amazon Check On Walmart |
Check out these different types of common solar lights, which we have described and given detailed information
10 Best Solar Lights Reviews
1. Aootek Led Solar lights
The Aootek Solar Lights offer three modes: security, all-night illumination, and smart brightness control, catering to different needs. Their sensitive PIR motion sensor detects movement up to 26 feet away, enhancing security. Bright LEDs provide wide-angle illumination for outdoor spaces like patios, gardens, and garages.
With a high-efficiency solar panel and IP65 waterproof rating, these lights endure various weather conditions. They ensure consistent performance year-round. Easy installation and robust construction make them a reliable choice for outdoor lighting. Aootek Solar Lights deliver bright, energy-efficient lighting, promising exceptional performance and durability for your outdoor space.
Specifications
- Material: Plastic
- Style: Art Deco
- Light fixture form: Wall
- Power Source: Solar Powered
- Installation Type: Wall Mount
- Special Feature: Motion sensor, 3-way, Rechargeable, Energy Efficient, Waterproof
- Light Source Type: LED
- Number of Light Sources: 182
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
- Brightness: 2500 Lumen
- Mounting Type: Wall Mount
Pros
- Superior motion detection capability.
- Wide-angle illumination for maximum coverage.
- Easy installation process.
- Durable and weather-resistant construction.
Cons
- Quality concerns with instructions.
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2. Baxia Technology Solar Lights
The BAXIA TECHNOLOGY Solar Outdoor Lights feature a PIR motion sensor, offering a range of 10-16 feet and a 120° angle for enhanced safety. Their bright LED lights ensure security without compromising brightness.
Designed to withstand tough weather conditions, they’re both waterproof and heatproof (IP65), guaranteeing durability. Simple to install and eco-friendly, these lights are a cost-effective solution for outdoor lighting, reducing electricity bills while providing reliable illumination powered by solar energy.
Specifications
- Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
- Light fixture form: Sconce
- Power Source: Solar Powered
- Installation Type: Wall Mount
- Special Feature: Energy Efficient, Waterproof, Easy Installation, Solar Powered, Motion Sensor
- Light Source Type: LED
- Number of Light Sources: 30
- Water Resistance Level: Water Resistant
- Brightness: 400 Lumen
- Mounting Type: Wall Mount
Pros
- Powerful motion sensor for enhanced security.
- Effortless installation with no wiring required.
- Durable and weatherproof construction.
- Energy-efficient operation saves on electricity bills.
Cons
- Some issues with brightness consistency.
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3. Brightech Solar Lights
The Brightech Ambience Pro Solar Powered Outdoor String Lights offer a stylish solution for outdoor lighting needs. They come with 12 Edison bulbs that emit a soft, romantic glow, ideal for creating a cozy atmosphere for various events. These lights are 27 feet long and equipped with durable LED bulbs, ensuring resilience against harsh weather conditions for long-lasting use.
The detachable solar panel allows for flexible installation options, while the convenient on/off switch simplifies operation. Whether for weddings, parties, or everyday outdoor lighting, these lights elevate the ambiance with elegance. Enjoy energy-efficient illumination and make lasting memories with these reliable string lights.
Specifications
- Material: Rubber
- Power Source: Solar Powered
- Light Source Type: LED
- Number of Light Sources: 12
- Voltage: 120 Volts
- Wattage: 1 watts
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
- Brightness: 400 Lumen
- Mounting Type: Wall Mount
Pros
- Elegant design enhances outdoor ambiance.
- Durable construction withstands harsh weather conditions.
- Easy installation with detachable solar panel.
- Energy-efficient operation saves on electricity costs.
Cons
- Some durability issues with the strand.
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4. InnoGear Solar Lights
InnoGear Solar Lights for Outdoor Use offer flexibility with a 180° adjustable solar panel and a 90° rotatable light head, maximizing sunlight exposure and illumination coverage. They feature High Mode (up to 6 hours) and Low Mode (up to 12 hours) for consistent nighttime lighting.
Constructed from durable high-impact ABS plastic, these lights withstand various weather conditions, ensuring long-term use. Easy to install with two mounting options, they’re ideal for pathways, gardens, and driveways. Experience reliable brightness and durability with InnoGear Solar Lights for Outdoor Use.
Specifications
- Material: High-impact ABS Plastic
- Style: Spotlight, Pathlight, In-ground Light
- Light Fixture Form: Spotlight
- Power Source: Solar Powered
- Light Source Type: LED
- Water Resistance Level: Waterproof
- Brightness: 600 Lumen
- Mounting Type: Stake in ground/ Mount on wall
Pros
- Adjustable solar panel and light head for optimal sun exposure.
- Improved brightness with two working modes for extended lighting.
- Durable construction withstands various weather conditions.
- Easy installation with two mounting options.
Cons
- Some issues with water intrusion affecting performance.
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5. Claoner Solar Lights
The CLAONER Solar Lights Outdoor provide wide-angle illumination of 270° and enhanced PIR motion sensitivity, offering brighter and broader coverage compared to standard solar lights. They come with three modes: continuous medium light, dim light sensor, and strong light sensor, giving you flexibility in lighting according to your needs.
Made from durable ABS material and boasting an IP65 waterproof rating, these lights ensure durability and performance even in harsh weather conditions. Installation is easy with two options: screws or double-sided tape, making them suitable for illuminating various areas such as fences, patios, and driveways. Experience increased security and customizable lighting solutions with CLAONER Solar Lights Outdoor.
Specifications
- Material: Plastic, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
- Light Fixture Form: Wall
- Power Source: Solar Powered
- Light Source Type: LED
- Motion Angle: 120°
- Illumination Angle: 270°
- Motion Distance: 12-20ft
- Water Resistance Level: IP65 Waterproof
Pros
- Wide-angle illumination provides extensive coverage.
- Versatile lighting modes cater to different preferences.
- Durable construction withstands outdoor elements.
- Easy installation options with screws or double-sided tape.
Cons
- Inconsistent charging and battery life.
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6. Amir Solar Lights
AMIR has launched an upgraded version of their Solar String Lights. These lights feature 120 LED bulbs along 39 feet of copper wire, offering uniform 360-degree illumination. Perfect for gardens, patios, weddings, and parties, they add ambiance to any space. The flexible yet durable copper wire allows for custom designs, encouraging creativity.
With two switch buttons for power and mode selection, users can choose from 8 lighting modes like combination, flashing fireflies, waves, and steady on, catering to various decorative needs. Additionally, their IP65 waterproof design ensures durability in all weather conditions, making them ideal for year-round outdoor use.
Specifications
- Brand: AMIR
- Power Source: Solar Powered
- Light Source Type: LED
- Length: 39ft with 120 LED bulbs
- Controller Type: Button Control
- Water Resistance Level: IP65 Waterproof
- Number of Batteries: 1 Lithium Ion battery required.
Pros
- Versatile lighting modes offer customizable decorative effects.
- Durable copper wire construction allows for flexible shaping.
- Solar-powered operation eliminates the need for batteries or electricity.
- IP65 waterproof rating ensures reliable performance in any weather.
Cons
- Some issues with lights turning off unexpectedly.
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7. Tomcare Solar lights
The TomCare Solar Lights have been upgraded for better performance. Standing at 43 inches tall, these torches simulate flickering flames, adding charm to any setting. Waterproof and hassle-free, they emit a soft, warm glow, enhancing the atmosphere. Powered by solar energy, they automatically turn on at dusk and off at dawn, ensuring convenience and energy savings.
Equipped with cutting-edge monocrystalline silicon solar panels and long-lasting rechargeable batteries, these lights boast a 30% faster solar energy conversion rate. Once fully charged, they can illuminate for up to 12 hours. With an IP65 waterproof rating, they withstand diverse weather conditions, perfect for gardens, patios, yards, and seasonal decor.
Specifications
- Power Resource: Solar powered
- Solar Panel: Advanced monocrystalline silicon; 20% conversion rate
- Battery Type: 1500mAh rechargeable battery
- Lumen: 35 lumen
- Product Height: 43 inches
- Charging Time: 8 hours (influenced by weather condition)
- Working Time: Up to 10 hours in summer and 5 hours in winter after fully charged
Pros
- Stunning flame effect enhances outdoor ambiance.
- Hassle-free automatic operation with solar power.
- Durable construction withstands various weather conditions.
- Easy installation with no wiring required.
Cons
- Limited battery life in colder weather conditions.
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8. Jackyled Solar Lights
The JACKYLED 7 LED Solar Step Lights feature 3-sided lampshades housing 7 LEDs each. Emitting a bright 5000K Cool White light, they enhance the appearance of steps, fences, decks, and pathways. With a large battery capacity and monocrystalline silicon solar panel, they offer up to 12 hours of illumination on a 6-hour charge.
Built with stainless steel housing and ABS lampshades, these lights withstand diverse outdoor conditions, from rain to snow. Installation is easy with included screws and adhesive tape for mounting on wood or concrete surfaces. These solar lights are eco-friendly and cost-effective, reducing electricity expenses while beautifying outdoor spaces.
Specifications
- Material: Stainless steel + ABS plastic
- Battery: 1000mAh
- Solar Panel: Monocrystalline
- Waterproof Rating: IP65
- Lumen: Not specified
- Charging Time: 6 hours
- Working Time: Up to 12 hours
Pros
- Brighter illumination with 3-sided lampshades and 7 LEDs.
- Durable stainless steel construction for long-lasting use.
- Versatile mounting options for easy installation.
- Environmentally friendly and cost-effective solar-powered operation.
Cons
- Some issues with lights dimming prematurely.
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9. Oxyled Solar Lights
The OxyLED Solar Garden Lights come in a pack of three, featuring beautifully designed figures like butterflies, dragonflies, and hummingbirds, all glowing with color-changing LEDs. Made from high-quality materials, these lights are light yet sturdy, boasting a waterproof rating of IP65 to withstand various weather conditions while creating a magical atmosphere in your outdoor space.
Powered by solar energy, they automatically charge during the day and light up at dusk, offering up to 8 hours of enchanting illumination overnight. Installation is easy with no wiring required; simply place them in the ground wherever you like and watch as they add delightful colors to your garden. Whether illuminating pathways, highlighting flower beds, or decorating fences, these solar garden lights are a charming addition to any outdoor area.
Specifications
- Material: Plastic
- Power Source: Solar
- Dimensions: 15.82 x 4.09 x 2.83 inches
- Waterproof Rating: IP65
- LED Type: Color-changing
- Battery: Rechargeable
- Working Time: Up to 8 hours
Pros
- Beautiful color-changing LED lights add a magical touch to any garden.
- High-quality, waterproof design ensures durability and longevity.
- Easy installation with no wiring required.
- Solar-powered operation saves energy and eliminates the need for batteries.
Cons
- Some issues with damaged or non-functional units upon arrival.
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10. Beau Jardin Solar Lights
The BEAU JARDIN Solar Pathway Lights consist of eight modern lights crafted from stainless steel and glass, emitting a cozy warm white glow to elevate your outdoor ambiance. Made from robust materials like metal and stainless steel, these lights are designed to withstand various weather conditions, ensuring longevity.
Utilizing solar power, these pathway lights automatically turn on at dusk and off at dawn, promoting energy conservation and lowering electricity expenses. Easy to set up with no wiring required, simply insert the stakes into the ground and let the sunlight do the work. With an IP65 waterproof rating, these lights assure reliable performance regardless of weather conditions, guaranteeing consistent illumination year-round.
Specifications
- Material: Metal, Stainless Steel
- Power Source: Solar
- Dimensions: 17″ in height x 5.4″ in diameter
- Waterproof Rating: IP65
- LED Type: Warm White
- Battery: 600mAh
- Charging Time: 6-8 hours
- Working Time: 8-12 hours
Pros
- Sleek and modern design adds a touch of elegance to outdoor spaces.
- Durable stainless steel construction ensures longevity and resilience.
- Easy assembly and installation with no wiring required.
- Energy-efficient solar-powered operation saves on electricity bills.
Cons
- Limited warranty coverage.
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What are Solar Lights?
Solar Lights are the modern and alternative source for powering up indoors and outdoors without consuming any natural resources. This advanced technology is efficient and special compared to the conventional lighting method – because it uses sunlight for powering up the lights.
As Solar energy is a renewable source of energy, these lights are considered environment friendly. Now-a-days, so many people are choosing solar-powered lights to power up outdoor areas like driveway, porch and garden.
How Does a Solar Light Work?
The working mechanism of solar lights is actually very simple. A core component of solar light is a photovoltaic panel also known as PV panel. This component will absorb the energy from sunlight during day time. After collecting the energy, it will be transformed into electrical energy and stored in a battery. Usually, batteries provided with solar lights are rechargeable ones.
When sunsets, the solar power lights will automatically detect it and switch on the lights. As sunlight is their main energy source, you have to install these lights where there is more sun exposure. Apart from PV panels, solar lights also have a controller. This component is specially designed to sense the sunlight and automatically turn on/off the LED lights using the energy stored from sunlight.
If you want to know how the PV panels work, then here’s how – they contain several layers of crystalline silicon and some chemicals. These layers have negatively charged electrons and positively charged spaces. Once the sunlight passes through the PV panel, the light energy will excite the negatively charged electrons and pressures them into positive spaces.
Different Types of Solar Panels
As technology advanced, solar panels have also evolved. Now solar lights are available in three types – indoor, outdoor and security lights. We have mentioned these types clearly below for your reference.
1. Outdoor Solar Lights
Now-a-days, these lights have become very popular. Because outdoor lights can not only illuminate the area but also acts a security guard. They will discourage any chance of theft or robbery. As you already know solar lights are powered using sunlight, if these outdoor lights will get more Solar energy, then the lights lasts for a longer time with brighter lights. On full charge, outdoor lights can last up to 10 hours continuously.
There are several outdoor solar light types. We have mentioned brief explanation of them below…
- Solar String Lights – These lights are also referred to as Christmas lights or fairy lights. They are mostly used as decorative lights as you can hang them or wrap them around the trees, shrubs, and backyard.
- Solar Deck Lights – They are also referred to as solar patio lights. They can be installed on patios, staircases, siding, walls, and others to create a vibrant and rich effect.
- Solar Spot Lights – This type of light can be placed above the doors, walls, high areas, and every focal point you want to illuminate.
- Solar Post Lights – If you want to beautify your garden or lawn, then post lights are suitable.
- Solar Flood Lights – These lights can be used to illuminate certain areas and floods like around the house, parking lot, streets, garages, and backyard.
- Solar Fence Lights – As the name implies, they are used for illuminating fence areas for visibility from both inside and outside.
- Solar Lanterns – They are also known as hanging solar lights or garden lanterns. They are compact and portable making it perfect for providing light in remote places, especially in the backyard.
- Solar Wall Lights – If you want to illuminate outdoor walls, then this option is perfect.
- Solar Driveway Lights – As the name implies, they are installed in the driveway so that you can drive or walk safely to your home.
- Solar Walkway Lights – If you want to brighten the walkway making sure the outdoor is not scary or dark, these lights are perfect.
- Solar Porch Lights – These are affordable and reliable lights to illuminate your porch.
- Solar Step Lights – These lights add sufficient lighting to staircases and steps. So, you can happily climb stairs even at night.
- Solar Lawn Lights – These lights add the perfect ambiance to your garden or yards.
- Solar Emergency Lights – They are perfect for emergency cases and power outages.
- Solar Camping Lights – If you go camping a lot, then these lights are a reliable source.
2. Indoor Solar Lights
Just like outdoor lights, indoor solar lights also come in different models. But the main difference between indoor and outdoor lights is that – solar panels in outdoor options are present within them, while for indoor lights, solar panels are installed separately on the terrace or where there is ample sunlight exposure. They are usually used as alternative power backup purposes. Below, we have mentioned several types of indoor lights.
- Solar Shed Lights – If you don’t want to add lights used in the shed to increase your utility bills, then these lights are the right option.
- Solar Desk Lights – These lights don’t come with any cords; so you can carry them anywhere you want.
3. Security Solar LED Lights
These are the most common and popular solar lights. Most of them are installed outside the houses like in the driveways, around the house, entry gate, in front of the houses, and other areas. These lights may look like normal lights, but they double up to be security lights as well. They have in-built sensors with a detection range of certain angle.
When someone walks in the coverage area, then the lights will detect it and automatically turn on the lights. If inactivity is detected, then they will turn off automatically in a few minutes or seconds. They are quite handy and economic as well.
Buying Guide for Best Solar Lights
1. Brightness
Why It Matters: Brightness, measured in lumens, is a critical aspect to consider because it directly affects the effectiveness and purpose of the solar light. A light’s brightness determines its ability to illuminate an area adequately, enhancing visibility, safety, and the overall aesthetics of the space. Selecting the appropriate brightness level ensures that your lighting solution meets your specific needs without being excessively bright or too dim.
What to Look For: Look for a lumen output that aligns with the intended use of the solar light. The guidelines provided offer a useful starting point:
- Step Solar Lights: 12 to 100 lumens for subtle lighting.
- Landscape Solar Lights: 50 to 300 lumens for accentuating features.
- Hardscape Solar Lights (on wall): 50 to 185 lumens for wall illumination.
- Path Solar Lights: 100 to 200 lumens for clear pathway visibility.
- Pond/Pool Solar Lights: 200 to 400 lumens for underwater use.
- Motion Sensor Solar Lights: 300 to 900 lumens for security.
- Flood Solar Lights: 700 to 1300 lumens for extensive area coverage. Choose a lumen rating at or above your requirements for optimal performance.
2. Battery Type and Capacity
Why It Matters: The type and capacity of the battery in solar lights are pivotal for determining the longevity and performance of the lighting. Higher capacity batteries provide longer illumination times, while the type of battery affects the lifespan and efficiency of the light. Opting for the right battery type ensures a balance between performance, durability, and cost.
What to Look For: Consider solar lights with lithium-ion or lead-acid batteries for their high capacities and longer operating times. Specifically:
- Lead Acid Batteries: Opt for these if you need 4000 mAh to 6000 mAh capacity for extended use.
- Lithium-Ion Batteries: Choose between 2000 mAh to 6000 mAh for a good balance of size, capacity, and lifespan.
- NiMH and NiCad batteries offer alternatives with specific benefits, such as cost-effectiveness and moderate capacities. Prioritize models with higher mAh within your budget for longer-lasting light.
3. Solar Panel Type and Efficiency
Why It Matters: The type and efficiency of solar panels are crucial because they determine how effectively the solar light can convert sunlight into electrical energy. Higher efficiency panels can harness more power in a shorter amount of time, enhancing the reliability and performance of the solar light, especially in areas with varying sunlight conditions.
What to Look For
- Monocrystalline Solar Panels: Choose these for the highest efficiency (15 to 21%), ideal for areas with less direct sunlight.
- Polycrystalline Solar Panels: Opt for these if you’re looking for a balance between cost and efficiency, with a typical efficiency of around 16%.
- Amorphous Solar Panels: Consider these for budget installations where space isn’t a constraint, as they offer lower efficiency (around 10%) but are more affordable. Selecting the right solar panel type involves balancing between efficiency, cost, and the physical installation space available.
4. Wattage
Why It Matters: Wattage is a measure of the solar panel’s capacity to generate electricity, directly influencing the brightness and efficiency of your solar lights. Higher wattage panels can convert more sunlight into electricity, powering brighter lights for longer periods. This makes wattage an essential factor for achieving the desired illumination level and efficiency in solar lighting systems.
What to Look For: Opt for solar lights with higher wattage ratings if you need bright, powerful lighting. For low-power needs like pathway or step lights, panels rated between 1 to 5 watts are sufficient. For more demanding applications, such as floodlights, look for panels with 10 to 20 watts. Consider the size of the solar panel and its surface area, as larger panels can typically generate more wattage, providing more energy for high-capacity batteries and brighter lights.
5. Recharge Time and Run Time
Why It Matters: The recharge time determines how quickly your solar lights can convert sunlight into stored energy, while the run time indicates how long the lights will stay illuminated. Efficient recharge capabilities ensure your lights can power up even on cloudy days, and longer run times guarantee continuous lighting throughout the night. Both factors are crucial for reliable, consistent solar lighting performance.
What to Look For: Seek solar lights with a recharge time of 6 to 7 hours to ensure they can fully charge during daylight. For run time, aim for models that offer 10 to 12 hours of light, ensuring overnight illumination. Consider local solar exposure and seasonal variations, opting for lights with efficient charging and sufficient battery capacity to maintain performance year-round. Models designed for less sunny climates with efficient charging technology are preferable for areas with lower solar exposure.
6. Bulb Types
Why It Matters: The type of bulb used in solar lights affects their energy efficiency, durability, and the quality of light they emit. LED bulbs are favored in solar lighting due to their low energy consumption, long lifespan, and compact design, making them ideal for various applications, from accent lighting to security floodlights.
What to Look For: Prioritize solar lights equipped with LED bulbs for their superior energy efficiency and durability. LEDs offer a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours, significantly reducing maintenance needs. Their compact size allows for more innovative and less obtrusive light fixture designs. Choose LED solar lights for a cost-effective, long-lasting, and versatile lighting solution.
7. Color Temperature
Why It Matters: Color temperature influences the ambiance and visual comfort of illuminated spaces. It affects how colors are perceived and can enhance the aesthetics of an area. Warm lights create cozy, welcoming environments, while cool lights provide clear, bright illumination suitable for security and task lighting. Understanding color temperature is essential for matching the light to the intended mood and functionality of the space.
What to Look For: Determine the desired ambiance for your space and choose bulbs accordingly. For a warm, inviting glow, look for bulbs with lower color temperatures (2000K to 3000K), mimicking the soft, orange tint of sunset or candlelight. For brighter, more alerting light, opt for higher color temperatures (5000K to 6500K), resembling daylight. Assess the intended application of your solar lights to select the appropriate color temperature, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
8. Coverage Angle and Length
Why It Matters: The coverage angle and length are crucial for ensuring efficient and effective illumination by motion sensor solar lights. These factors determine the area within which the sensor can detect movement, directly affecting the light’s ability to provide security and illumination where needed. Adequate coverage ensures that the light activates when necessary, without being overly sensitive to distant or irrelevant movement.
What to Look For
- Angle of Coverage: Opt for a PIR sensor with a minimum coverage angle of 120 degrees to ensure broad detection range. While a wider angle offers more coverage, be mindful that angles beyond 170 degrees might cause the light to activate too frequently, leading to potential nuisances.
- Distance of Coverage: A distance coverage of at least 5 to 6 meters is desirable for effective motion detection. Greater distances offer more extended coverage but be cautious of settings that are too far-reaching, as they can lead to false triggers and unnecessary energy consumption.
9. Movability
Why It Matters: Movability in solar lights enhances their versatility and application, allowing you to adjust the direction of illumination based on changing needs or preferences. This feature is particularly beneficial for optimizing light placement and coverage without the need for reinstallation, making it possible to adapt to various outdoor lighting scenarios efficiently.
What to Look For: Seek solar lights with adjustable heads or mounts that can rotate or pivot. This flexibility lets you fine-tune the direction of the light beam, catering to different uses such as highlighting specific landscape features, enhancing security, or improving path visibility. Consider lights that offer easy adjustment and secure positioning to ensure consistent performance.
10. Settings
Why It Matters: The availability of different setting options in solar lights provides control over their operation, allowing for automatic or manual management based on your specific needs. Automatic settings offer convenience and energy efficiency, while manual settings provide flexibility for personalized control over the lighting.
What to Look For
- Automatic Setting: Ideal for hassle-free operation, ensuring lights turn on at dusk and off at dawn automatically. This setting is perfect for everyday lighting needs and energy conservation.
- Manual Setting: Suitable for those who prefer direct control over their lighting, including the ability to turn lights on or off as needed. Look for models that also offer brightness adjustment features for added versatility.
11. Lifespan
Why It Matters: The lifespan of solar lights affects their value and performance over time. A longer lifespan means less frequent replacements, reduced waste, and better investment. LED lights, solar panels, and batteries each contribute to the overall durability and longevity of the solar lighting system.
What to Look For
- LED Lifespan: Choose LED lights known for longevity, typically offering 50,000 hours of operation or equivalent to 7-15 years of usage.
- Solar Panel Lifespan: Look for high-quality PV cell panels that can last around 20 years, ensuring sustained energy capture and conversion.
- Battery Lifespan: Since batteries have shorter lifespans, usually 2-3 years, opt for models with easily replaceable batteries to prolong the life of your solar lights.
How to Fix Solar Lights?
Common reasons that stop the solar lights from functioning are bulb failure. Battery failure and panel failure. Below, we have mentioned ways to fix these problems.
- Bulb Failure – Almost all the solar light bulbs come with a simple screw mechanism. LED bulbs are readily available in the market so you can easily purchase and replace them.
- Battery Failure – If the battery is not able to charge, then you have to place the dry battery directly in sunlight and try to recharge it. If this doesn’t work, then you have to replace the batteries with appropriate ones.
- Panel Failure – Sometimes, water inside the panel screen can cause excessive trauma to the solar panels can a failure. If this is the reason, then instead of changing the entire season you can get the solar panels checked by a professional in a DIY electronic store. In some cases, individual cells can be replaced with new ones. If this doesn’t work, then you have no other option but to purchase a new one.
Benefits of Using Solar Lights
There are several advantages of solar lights. We have mentioned some of them below for your reference.
1. Environmental Friendly
Needless to say, solar lights are the most energy efficient ones because they use renewable energy source – sunlight. Apart from that, they play a major role in cutting off the carbon footprint which is usually released daily by industries and factories around the world. By using solar energy, we can slowly decrease the issues caused by using planet’s natural resources.
2. Cost Effectiveness
Compared to conventional lights, solar lights usually cost much more. But when you consider long term usage, they are cost effective solution. When you calculate the price and monthly maintenance of both solar and electrical lights, you will release that the price you invested for solar lights will cover up within few months.
3. Maintenance
Actually, maintaining solar lighting system is pretty simple as they don’t need much. Because you don’t have to deal with wires, replacing them or installing an outlet for powering up. All you have to do it just check them once in a while throughout the year so that they can last long.
4. Several Styles
Solar lights are available in several designs and styles. They are available in different colors, shapes, sizes and types as well. Some solar lights are designed specifically for certain purpose. Some of designed to enhance the areas aesthetically. So, it will not be too difficult to find the right option for your requirements and expectations.
5. Unlimited Source
As sun will stay as long as earth lives, you will never go out of sun energy. However, during cloudy days and snowy months, it may be difficult to charge up the solar lights.
6. Convenient Choice
If you live in a locality with severe storms, then blackout or power outages are pretty common. Living in darkness can be difficult. Though candles or oil lamps are temporary solution, they pose fire hazard. If you want a permanent solution, then go for solar lights. They are a much safer option in desperate times.
7. No Need for Electrical Wires
Conventional lighting needs power cables for working which can be trip-hazard, especially in wet weather conditions. However, with solar lighting solutions you don’t have worry about that. Standard silicon wafers used in solar panels are sealed in plastic which makes them safe. And there is no need of electrical wiring for installing solar panels.
Best Solar Lights – FAQs
Ans: Most of the issues with solar lights is not due to the panel but due to the batteries. If your solar lights stopped working abruptly, you might want to check out the batteries for their function. If they are well enough, check the panels. If not, change the batteries with new ones.
Ans: Cleaning solar lights is actually a simple and easy to perform. As there are wires or cords, the maintenance is pretty simple. As they are self-sufficient, they are much easier to maintain than other devices.
Most of the solar lights are made up of IP 65 water resistant materials, you can clean them easily using a damp wash cloth or damp paper tower. Before that, we recommend to remove any dust from the surfaces and exteriors and surface of the solar lights. Apart from that, you can also use warm water or dish soap for cleaning. This cleaning process is applicable for solar panels as well.
However, while cleaning the internal bulbs, you have to be very careful. You should not apply pressure as it will break the bulb.
Ans: Of course, yes. Solar lights can still charge up even if it is cloudy or stormy outside. Though clouds can still transmit some sunlight, the panels may not receive the same sunlight exposure as they normally would. On a regular cloudy day, power received by the solar lights can be reduced to half. In winters, there can be less hours of sunlight and more clouds. In those days, solar lights may run with 30% to 50% less capacity than they would normally do in summer or warmer months.
Ans: It is possible to charge the batteries without sun. You can recharge them separately or use any household light for charging it up. For that, you have to simply place the solar panels near the light. The light will act as the sun and panels will convert the light energy into power. Though this source may not be as effective as sun, an incandescent bulb can still charge up to some extent.
Ans: When the solar lights are going to be used for some time, we recommend to remove the batteries, charge them up and store. While storing them, make sure to place them in dark place so that they can lose the charge very slowly.
Ans: Solar lights can, technically, work in shade as well but not as highly effective as they do in the sun. This is because, in shade, they will not receive as much light ( but if it’s not too dark, they will absorb the available light) to turn into power and store it. But not as much.
Ans: In the Solar Light terminology, the F stands for Flashing Lights whereas the ‘S’ stands for static lights. Static is for regular use whereas flashing lights are well, for flashing lights.
Ans: Nail Polish can be a good agent for cleaning off solar cells in the solar panel. Clear solar panels will help in capturing more light and thus help store more energy in the batteries.
Conclusion
With a wide variety of solar lights available, selecting the right ones can be overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of three top options, each catering to specific needs:
- For comprehensive security lighting: Opt for the Aootek Led Solar lights (product 1). Their 182 LEDs and wide-angle motion sensor provide excellent coverage and illumination, ideal for deterring unwanted visitors.
- For broader ambiance and decoration: Choose the Brightech Solar Lights (product 3). These commercial-grade lights offer a warm, inviting glow with 12 shatterproof Edison bulbs, perfect for creating a festive or relaxing atmosphere in your outdoor space.
- For pathway and garden accents: Consider the Jackyled Solar Lights (product 8). These compact and stylish lights provide illumination along walkways and steps, enhancing safety and adding a touch of elegance to your garden.
Remember, the “best” solar lights depend on your individual needs and preferences. Consider factors like desired brightness, coverage area, functionality, and aesthetic appeal when making your choice.
4 Responses
I received beau jardin solar lights as a gift for my birthday. These solars are bright and beautiful! These lights are well made and are indeed stainless steel and glass. They are lovely and give off a bright, beautifully patterned light. Very easy to install, simple but quite elegant.
I just bought these Aootek Lights to light up very dark area on the side of our house. Installed these lights today right as the sun was setting so I had a chance to see them in action. The sensor range is excellent and they detect movement very well especislly considering that I have the mounted about 8 to 9 feet off the ground and they even detect movement from my dogs.
Thanks for useful article!
These lights of InnoGear are amazing! They are really nice looking in daylight and super bright at night. It provides outstanding lighting from dusk ’till dawn. Good choice! 🙂
Great article, very informative.
Thank You
GiGi