Want to spruce up your outdoor area? Try solar-powered rope lights! They’re simple to set up, available in different lengths and colors, and eco-friendly as they run on solar energy!
Here are some key factors to consider while buying:
- Length: You can choose from lengths of 10 to 100 feet, catering to spaces ranging from small balconies to large gardens. This ensures that you have enough coverage and flexibility for your design needs.
- Number of LEDs: Each rope offers a varying number of LEDs, ranging from 50 to 500. This affects both the brightness of the lights and their energy consumption. This range allows you to customize the lighting based on whether you prefer a subtle or bold illumination.
- Lighting Modes: With multiple lighting modes available, you can create the perfect ambiance for any occasion, whether it’s a quiet evening or a festive celebration. Options range from a steady glow to twinkling stars, giving you the flexibility to set the mood just right.
To understand rope lights better, we’ve created a thorough “Buying Guide”. We’ve also picked out some top Solar Powered Rope Lights and provided quick reviews of each, highlighting their features, advantages, and disadvantages.
Keep reading to learn how to select the right option for your needs.
Best Solar Powered Rope Lights – Comparison Table
| Solar Powered Rope Lights | Length | No of LEDs | Lighting Modes | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brightown solar string lights | 20 meters | 200 | 8 | Check On Amazon |
| GIGALUMI Solar Rope Lights | 10 meters | 100 | 8 | Check On Amazon |
| JMEXSUSS Solar Powered Light | 12 meters | 120 | 8 | Check On Amazon |
| ANJAYLIA Solar Outdoor Rope Lights | 20 meters | 200 | 8 | Check On Amazon |
| LiyuanQ Solar Outdoor Rope Lights | 10 meters | 100 | 8 | Check On Amazon |
| IMAGE 8 Modes Solar Rope Lights | 24 meters | 200 | 8 | Check On Amazon |
| SOCO Solar Rope String Lights | 10 meters | 100 | 8 | Check On Amazon |
| KUshopfast Solar Rope Lights | 10 meters | 200 | 8 | Check On Amazon |
| LairtPOW Solar Powered Rope Lights | 11.88 meters | 100 | 8 | Check On Amazon |
Best Solar Powered Rope Lights – Reviews
1. Brightown Solar String Lights
The Brightown Solar Powered Rope Lights offer a range of lighting options with 8 modes like combination, sequential, and steady-on, perfect for any occasion. This package contains 4 sets of lights, spanning 132 feet in total, ensuring broad coverage for your porch, garden, yard, or patio.
They charge quickly in 4-6 hours and last 8-10 hours, providing consistent illumination throughout the night, thanks to their efficient solar panel. Easy to install and with an IP65 waterproof rating, these lights are durable and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, capable of withstanding various weather conditions.
Specifications
- Brand: Brightown
- Waterproof: IP65
- Length: 33 feet per pack
- Charging Time: 4-6 hours
- Battery Capacity: 800mAh
- Light Modes: 8
Pros
- Versatile lighting with 8 different modes.
- Efficient solar panel for quick charging.
- IP65 waterproof rating for durability.
- Easy installation with tangle-preventing reel.
Cons
- Size may not be sufficient for larger areas.
2. GIGALUMI Solar Rope Lights
The GIGALUMI Solar Powered Rope Lights offer 8 different lighting modes, including options like waves, flashing, and steady illumination, allowing you to create the perfect atmosphere for any occasion.
They’re built to withstand various weather conditions thanks to their waterproof design, and the flexible PVC material makes them easy to position around trees, tents, or umbrellas. With 100 LED lights per 35.75 ft. length, these solar rope lights provide ample coverage and emit light in all directions. Whether you want to spruce up your garden, patio, gate, or event space, these lights are simple to set up and make a striking visual statement.
Specifications
- Brand: GIGALUMI
- Waterproof: IP65
- Length: 35.75 feet per strand
- Battery: AA Size, 800mAh
- Charging Time: 6-8 hours
- Working Hours: 8-10 hours
Pros
- Versatile lighting modes for customizable ambiance.
- Waterproof design for durability in any weather.
- Bendable PVC construction for easy placement.
- Ample coverage with 100 LED lights per strand.
Cons
- Some issues with battery life.
3. JMEXSUSS Solar Powered Light
JMEXSUSS Solar Powered Rope Lights offer versatile lighting with 8 modes including waves, twinkling, and steady-on. They’re built to last with an IP65 waterproof rating, making them durable against rain, snow, and sunlight, perfect for year-round use.
The flexible PVC tube and copper wire design make shaping and installation easy, great for decorating trees, fences, or special occasions. Powered by solar energy for efficiency and boasting a long-lasting working time of over 8 hours, these lights provide reliable and beautiful illumination.
Specifications
- Brand: JMEXSUSS
- Waterproof: IP65
- Length: 39.4 feet
- Battery: AA Size, 800mAh
- Charging Time: 6-8 hours
- Working Hours: 8 hours or more
Pros
- Versatile lighting modes for various atmospheres.
- Durable and waterproof construction for year-round use.
- Flexible PVC tube and copper wire for easy shaping and installation.
- Energy-saving solar power with long working hours.
Cons
- Durability concerns.
4. ANJAYLIA Solar Outdoor Rope Lights
ANJAYLIA Solar-Powered Rope Lights is designed to elevate your outdoor space with ease. These lights boast a 66-foot rope with a 6-foot extension cord, ensuring ample coverage for any area. Powered by a high-quality solar panel and a 1200mAh battery, they recharge during the day and provide reliable illumination for 8-12 hours at night.
Featuring various lighting modes and adjustable brightness settings, you can customize the ambiance to suit any occasion. With convenient memory functionality and timer settings, these lights are perfect for weddings, parties, or simply enhancing your surroundings daily. ANJAYLIA Solar-Powered Rope Lights offer both practicality and versatility for all your outdoor lighting needs.
Specifications
- Brand: ANJAYLIA
- Special Feature: Dimmable
- Waterproof: IP67
- Length: 66 feet
- Controller Type: Remote Control
- Voltage: 3.7 Volts (DC)
- Wattage: 4440 Milliwatts
Pros
- Eight lighting modes and adjustable brightness levels for customized ambiance.
- Long-lasting illumination with a high-quality solar panel and advanced battery.
- Convenient memory function and timer options for easy operation.
- Waterproof design and durable construction ensure reliability in various weather conditions.
Cons
- Some issues with water resistance.
5. LiyuanQ Solar Outdoor Rope Lights
LiyuanQ Solar-Powered Rope Lights are designed with 1000 LEDs enclosed in a flexible PVC tube, providing bright light for your garden or patio. They come with a durable battery and a solar panel that can keep them running for over 12 hours continuously, making them perfect for events like parties or weddings.
You can choose from 8 lighting modes, including twinkling fireflies or steady light, to create various atmospheres. These waterproof lights are suitable for weddings, window decorations, or commercial buildings.
Specifications
- Brand: LiyuanQ
- Special Feature: Waterproof
- Material: Copper, Polyvinyl Chloride
- Number of Light Sources: 1000
- Control Method: App
Pros
- Durable PVC tube cover for flexibility and protection.
- High battery capacity ensures long-lasting illumination.
- 8 lighting modes offer versatility for different occasions.
- Waterproof design suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
Cons
- Occasional difficulties in setting up the app control.
6. IMAGE 8 Modes Solar Rope Lights
IMAGE Solar-Powered Rope Lights with 8 different flashing modes and an adjustable brightness setting, providing personalized lighting for any atmosphere or event. Enhanced with larger, more efficient solar panels and a 2400mAh battery, they efficiently charge in overcast conditions and deliver prolonged illumination for up to 10 hours.
Their detachable feature enables separate charging, while their waterproof build guarantees resilience against diverse weather conditions. Ideal for enhancing outdoor spaces during weddings, Christmas festivities, or everyday decor needs.
Specifications
- Brand: IMAGE
- Special Feature: Dimmable
- Material: Polypropylene
- Controller Type: Button Control
- Number of Light Sources: 200
- Voltage: 5.5 Volts
- Wattage: 20 watts
Pros
- Dimmable feature allows for customizable brightness.
- Larger solar panels ensure efficient charging, even in cloudy weather.
- Long-lasting 2400mAh battery provides extended illumination.
- Waterproof design for durability in outdoor settings.
Cons
- Some issues with product longevity and durability.
7. SOCO Solar Rope String Lights
The SOCO Solar Powered Rope Lights have been improved, now featuring two 39.5ft ropes equipped with 120 LEDs each, delivering increased brightness and wider coverage. Designed to withstand water and endure, these lights are ideal for brightening up various outdoor areas such as trees, patios, and pathways. Offering 8 different lighting modes, including options like fireflies flashing and steady-on, you have the flexibility to set the ideal atmosphere for any event.
Thanks to the adjustable solar panels and rechargeable batteries, these lights guarantee lasting performance, automatically illuminating for 8 to 12 hours following a full day of sunlight exposure. Transform your outdoor space with these adaptable and delightful solar rope lights.
Specifications
- Brand: SOCO
- Special Feature: Waterproof
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride
- Controller Type: Remote Control
- Number of Light Sources: 120
- Control Method: Touch
Pros
- Upgraded version with longer and brighter rope lights.
- Waterproof design ensures durability in outdoor settings.
- Versatile application for accentuating various outdoor spaces.
- Adjustable solar panels and rechargeable batteries for convenient operation.
Cons
- Occasional difficulties in setting up and configuring the lighting modes.
8. KUshopfast Solar Rope Lights
The KUshopfast Solar Powered Rope Lights come with a 66-foot silver wire and 200 LED lights. They’re designed to emit low heat, making them energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. These lights are flexible, making it simple to wrap them around trees, balconies, or furniture, adding charm to outdoor areas.
They offer 8 lighting options like combination, twinkle, and steady-on, allowing you to adjust the ambiance for any occasion. Plus, they have a built-in memory chip that remembers your last mode choice, making them easy to use.
Specifications
- Brand: KUshopfast
- Special Feature: Waterproof
- Material: Polyvinyl Chloride
- Controller Type: Button Control
- Number of Light Sources: 200
- Wattage: 3 watts
- Control Method: Remote
Pros
- Moldable shape for versatile decoration options.
- Eight lighting modes offer customizable ambiance.
- Energy-efficient solar power eliminates the need for electricity.
- Waterproof design ensures durability in various weather conditions.
Cons
- The size may not be suitable for all outdoor spaces, depending on personal preferences.
9. LairtPOW Solar Powered Rope Lights
LairtPOW’s Solar-Powered Rope Lights feature 100 LED bulbs that emit minimal heat, offering an energy conversion rate of 20% for efficient and environmentally friendly operation. The durable PVC tube cover spans 39 feet and is flexible, allowing you to shape it around objects like trees, furniture, or signs.
These lights are rated IP65 waterproof, making them suitable for various weather conditions and perfect for occasions like garden parties, weddings, or home decor enhancement. With 8 lighting modes including options like fireflies flashing and twinkling, they provide the versatility to create captivating atmospheres for any event.
Specifications
- Brand: LairtPOW
- Special Feature: Waterproof, Solar powered
- Material: Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene, Polyvinyl Chloride
- Color Temperature: 3000 Kelvin
- Number of Light Sources: 100
- Voltage: 3.6 Volts
- Wattage: 5 watts
Pros
- High energy conversion rate for efficient operation.
- Malleable PVC tube cover allows for flexible shaping.
- IP65 waterproof rating ensures durability in various weather conditions.
- Versatile usage for indoor and outdoor decoration.
Cons
- Some issues with the size of the product.
Buying Guide for the Best Solar Powered Rope Lights
When selecting the best solar-powered rope lights for your needs, there are several crucial factors to consider:
1. Outdoor Vs. Indoor Use
Why It Matters: The intended use of solar-powered rope lights greatly affects their design and durability. Outdoor lights are exposed to various weather conditions, including rain, extreme temperatures, and UV radiation, necessitating robust construction and weatherproofing. Indoor lights, while not subjected to harsh weather, may require different aesthetics or brightness levels to complement interior decor.
What to Look For
- For Outdoor Use: Seek rope lights rated as waterproof (IP65 or higher) and UV-resistant to ensure longevity and performance in all weather conditions. The materials should be durable, such as heavy-duty PVC or silicone, to withstand environmental stress.
- For Indoor Use: Prioritize lights with flexibility in brightness and color options to match your indoor ambiance. Look for lights with a lower IP rating, which are still durable but perhaps not as heavily fortified against weather, making them more suitable and cost-effective for indoor environments.
2. Length
Why It Matters: The length of the rope light determines how much area you can cover. Whether you’re decorating a large outdoor garden, a balcony, or indoor spaces, having the right length ensures a seamless and continuous lighting effect without the need for multiple sets, which can complicate installation and increase costs.
What to Look For: Measure the area you intend to decorate and consider purchasing rope lights slightly longer than your measurement to accommodate any miscalculations or design adjustments. Rope lights typically come in lengths ranging from 10 to 100 feet. For larger projects, look for options that allow multiple sets to be connected end-to-end without exceeding the solar panel’s capacity.
3. Number of LEDs
Why It Matters: The number of LEDs within a rope light directly influences its brightness and energy efficiency. A higher count can provide more luminance and a more vivid appearance but may consume more power. Conversely, fewer LEDs can mean reduced brightness but greater energy efficiency and longer lighting durations on a single charge.
What to Look For
- Brightness Requirements: Consider the level of brightness you need for your intended space. For accent lighting, a lower LED count may suffice, whereas areas requiring significant illumination may benefit from a higher count.
- LED Spacing: Pay attention to the spacing between LEDs. Closer spacing can offer a more continuous light effect, while wider spacing may result in a dotted line appearance, which might be desirable for certain aesthetic effects.
- Energy Consumption and Solar Panel Size: Check the specifications for the solar panel size relative to the number of LEDs. A well-balanced system ensures that the solar panel can adequately recharge the battery for nightly use, even with a high number of LEDs.
4. Lighting Modes
Why It Matters: Lighting modes in solar-powered rope lights dictate the versatility of the product. Multiple lighting modes allow you to adjust the ambiance according to the occasion, whether it’s a gentle, steady glow for a quiet evening outdoors or a flashing pattern for a festive celebration. The variety in lighting modes can greatly enhance the functionality and appeal of the rope lights.
What to Look For: Look for rope lights that offer a range of lighting modes — typically, these include options like steady on, slow glow, flashing, and slow fade. The numerical value here refers to the number of modes available, with many products offering between 2 to 8 modes. Some advanced models might feature a greater variety, enhancing their adaptability to different moods and settings. Additionally, consider the ease of switching between modes, ideally through a remote control or a built-in switch on the solar panel.
5. Flexibility
Why It Matters: The flexibility of the rope lights affects installation and the types of shapes or patterns you can create. Highly flexible rope lights can be easily bent and wrapped around trees, poles, furniture, or architectural elements without breaking. This is particularly important for intricate designs or when you need to navigate tight corners or spaces.
What to Look For: Evaluate the material and design of the rope lights for flexibility. Some rope lights are made with materials that can withstand being bent to a certain degree without damage. Look for mentions of “high flexibility” or “360-degree flexibility” in the product specifications. The flexibility is often influenced by the material of the casing, with some silicone or rubber casings offering superior bendability compared to harder plastics.
6. Automation
Why It Matters: Automation features such as timers and light sensors enhance the user experience by reducing manual effort and increasing energy efficiency. A timer allows you to set specific hours for the lights to turn on and off, ensuring they’re only in use when desired. Light sensors automate the process even further by detecting ambient light levels, turning the rope lights on at dusk and off at dawn, which optimizes power usage and prolongs the life of the solar battery.
What to Look For: Search for rope lights with built-in light sensors and adjustable timers. The numerical values here refer to the number of timer settings available (e.g., 3-hour, 5-hour, 8-hour intervals) and the sensitivity levels of light sensors. These features allow for a hands-off approach to managing your lighting, making them convenient and efficient. Additionally, confirm that these automation features are easy to program and adjust according to your preferences and seasonal changes in daylight hours.
7. Weather Conditions
Why It Matters: Solar-powered rope lights are often exposed to the elements, making their ability to withstand various weather conditions a crucial consideration. The durability of your rope lights in facing rain, wind, snow, and extreme temperatures will determine their lifespan and performance over time. Weather resistance ensures that your investment is protected against common outdoor hazards.
What to Look For: Key numerical values to consider include the IP (Ingress Protection) rating, which indicates the level of sealing effectiveness of electrical enclosures against intrusion from foreign bodies and moisture. Look for rope lights with an IP rating of at least IP65, which means they are dust-tight and protected against water jets from any direction. Additionally, consider the temperature range the lights are rated for, ensuring they can operate in your local climate extremes, typically ranging from -20°C to 50°C (-4°F to 122°F).
8. Battery Specifications
Why It Matters: The battery is the heart of solar-powered rope lights, storing the solar energy collected during the day to power the lights at night. Battery specifications determine how long your lights can operate on a full charge, how well they perform in less-than-ideal sunlight conditions, and their overall lifespan. Adequate battery capacity is essential for consistent, reliable lighting, especially in areas with shorter daylight hours or during overcast weather.
What to Look For: Pay attention to the battery type, capacity (usually measured in milliampere-hours, mAh), and quality. A higher capacity battery, for example, 1000 mAh or more, will typically offer longer illumination times, allowing your rope lights to stay lit throughout the night on a full charge. Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used for their efficiency and longevity. Additionally, check the charging time needed to reach full capacity, which should ideally be within 6 to 8 hours of sunlight, and the operational time, which can range from 8 to 12 hours or more, depending on the battery’s efficiency and the lighting mode used.
Benefits of Using Solar Powered Rope Lights:
Here are some of the advantages you can grab by using solar-powered rope lights.
Safety – The use of solar rope lights will reduce the need for dangerous extensions, as they won’t overheat while using and thereby reduce the risk of getting fire.
Easy Installation – It is easy and simple to install these solar rope lights (even for the novice), as they come without any power cords and outlets. So, you can freely and easily decorate your space as per your requirement without concerning more about the power bill.
Cost-Effective – Initially, the purchasing cost is a bit higher, yet it’s running, and maintenance cost is very low compared to traditional electric lights. This means they are very much cost-effective in the long run.
Convenience – Solar string lights are convenient to use for several reasons. Among them, providing excellent lighting even in a power outage, and offering a high-waterproof rating to work well in any weather conditions (snow or heavy rains) outdoors are a few reasons.
Durability – Generally, incandescent lights are made of glass and filament, which might burn and easily break. While durable plastic is used to build/construct these solar rope lights, which makes them last a minimum of 10 times longer compared to incandescent lights.
Eco-Friendly – These solar lights won’t emit any pollution gases like carbon dioxide or nitrous oxide. Also, these are more long-lasting than their counterparts (electric lights) reducing the need to replace them frequently. Thus, it reduces the number of light strands thrown out into landfills. Moreover, it runs with a solar light that indicates less energy consumption.
Decorative – These string lights come in various colors and allow you to mold or bent them to provide any shape to decorate your area/place. Though these are brighter enough, yet won’t attract insects or bugs. So, decorate your space peacefully and aesthetically without any worry about these creatures’ attacks.
Free Energy – Since these lights are powered by solar energy, they won’t need any power outsource (electricity). Traditional lighting costs you approximately $10 per 300 hours of its working, but you can save this cost and energy by using these solar rope lights.
Different Options are Available – Solar lights come in various shapes, sizes, or colors, which let you choose the best one that sets your ambiance, as per your aesthetic purpose. For instance, you can wrap these string lights around furniture, trellis, trees, branches, over decks, and shrubbery to create an ideal and excellent outdoor retreat.
Best Solar Powered Rope Lights – FAQs
Ans: Its installation is simple. Attach and set a panel to a ground stake, and then attach these rope lights to the panel with the help of a connector. All you need is to check that you set the panel in a place where it collects maximum exposure to the sunlight.
To use these lights, you have to hang or shape these lights alike Christmas lights or electric-powered lights on whatever design you intended to set. Yet avoid placing the solar panels under a tree, where they won’t expose to sunlight.
Ans: Usually, these solar rope lights won’t require any specific care and maintenance. We suggest you read and follow the instructions mentioned in the user manual. The reason is that the care and maintenance tips will vary a lot from one brand/manufacturer to another one.
Ans: It is quite common for any form of lighting to generate some heat while operating/illuminating. But these LED solar rope lights won’t get any noticeable hot, and it is cool to touch when you install them properly.
Ans: How long will these solar rope lights last? It is a common question that arises in every user. Its answer is simple, these rope lights will generally last for around 25 – 30 years depending on the durability and quality. This means you can use these lights for many years without any issues.
Ans: We suggest you allow the solar panels to charge for a couple of days before you connect and use them. So, charge these panels by placing them under the sunlight without connecting the string lights till the panel is fully charged.
Ans: Yes, of course. Most of these lights are waterproof with an IP67 rating that allows you to submerge the lights into the water at a certain depth or meters. But ensure to check the lights before making its purchase to know whether they are waterproof or not.
Ans: The higher the number of LEDs, the better will be its coverage. In general, a rope light of around 30 feet in length will come with 100 LEDs (or more). Also, it would be pleasing when the LEDs get clumped to close together. Avoid too many of these LEDs (if they are efficient) when you need to get decent lighting.
Ans: Unlike traditional lights, these solar-powered rope lights don’t need any power outlet, why because they function with the help of sunlight. They come with a smart light sensor and a rechargeable battery that mostly turns on automatically after sunset by charging the panel & battery during the day.
Ans: These solar rope lights consist of LED light bulbs, which are energy-efficient and last longer. You can find a light model with a high-quality built and reputable brand. So, choose the correct lights by checking their built quality, number of LED’s, warranty, and online reviews & ratings on a particular product.
Ans: Yes, its batteries are replaced. Yet you have to find the correct battery replacement for its proper functioning. After that, you have to locate the old worn-out battery and take it out to replace it with a new battery. Then continue using them for its perfect illumination.
Ans: No, not all these light models will allow you to cut them. Some are fixed, which won’t allow you to cut. But we suggest you check the user manual to know whether the rope lights you brought can be cut or not. Ensure not to cut if it won’t allow you, otherwise it damages the overall rope lights. In case, it can be cut, then refer to the instructions mentioned in the manual to know how to perform this action.
Ans: When it comes to charging time, some premium solar rope lights will take around 6 – 8 hours to charge, whereas others might take a bit longer. However, it is based on specific manufacturer instructions. So, check out the models to find out.
How long it lasts – They won’t be any specific answer to this question on its runtime/longevity, as it depends on your usage level and the quality of the material used.
Conclusion
These lights use a lot of power, which could raise your electricity bill. But you can avoid this by choosing solar-powered rope lights, which are a popular option.
We have the best solar-powered rope lights here, along with all the information you need to make a decision. If you’re still unsure after reading our buying guide, we have some recommendations for you.
- If you’re looking for an affordable option, consider the Brightown Solar String Lights. They’re 20 meters long with 200 LEDs and offer 8 different lighting modes.
- For larger areas, the IMAGE 8 Modes Solar Rope Lights are a great choice. They’re nearly 24 meters long with 200 LEDs and come with a one-year warranty.
- Outdoor LED lights can be damaged by sunlight, moisture, and dust. But the ANJAYLIA Solar Outdoor Rope Lights have a 1 ½ year warranty, so you won’t have to worry about replacing them soon. They’re also 20 meters long with 200 LEDs.
One Response
Thanks for useful article!
Having rope solar lights installed is ideal and practical for holiday adornments and other various occasions. Aside from their safety of use, these solar rope fixtures are energy-saving. 🙂