These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (2024)

These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (1)

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Solar pathway lights are becoming a favorite garden light among homeowners, and with good reason. They don’t require outlets, they're eco-friendly and energy-efficient, plus, thanks to the array of options flooding the market, they're increasingly easy on the eyes. You'll find mini adjustable spotlights and flush-mount disks, as well as attractive lanterns and floral and celestial designs. Compared to conventional outdoor lights, solar lights can also be much brighter, and you don’t need to worry about turning them on and off.

    What to Consider

    Solar pathway lights come in an incredible range of styles and sizes, so it will be easy to match them to your home’s architectural style. These lights are easy to install, without the hassle of wires and attachments. Simply stick them in the ground in a sunny area and they take care of themselves. Most models collect light throughout the day and automatically turn on at dusk, which adds to the overall security and safety of your property. If you want very bright lights, then seek out a higher number of lumens; landscaping ambience will clock in around 5 lumens, and a floodlight will deliver about 350 lumens.

    Before you click the “buy” button, assess the space you want to put the lights in, determine how many you’ll need, and decide where you can anchor them in the ground. Also, keep in mind that light duration hours represent averages taken during longer days of the year; expect wintertime run-time average to hover around 5 hours.

    How We Selected

    We reviewed hundreds of options, and have included lights in a number of sizes and styles, keeping a range of budget needs in mind. We also looked for lights that have a long battery life, solid construction, and get top ratings from customers. All of our lights are also made by companies with excellent customer service ratings.

    1

    Best Lantern

    Gigalumi Star and Moon Solar Pathway Lights

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (12)

    1

    Best Lantern

    Gigalumi Star and Moon Solar Pathway Lights

    Key Specs

    • Lights Per Pack: 6
    • Total Height: 6.3 inches
    • Run-Time: Up to 8 hours
    • Options: 1 finish; 1 light color (warm white)

    This 6-pack of solar-powered pathway lights features star and crescent moon cutouts, which cast a pattern on the ground when the lanterns are illuminated.

    Stakes are included, and you also have the option of placing them directly on pavement (they look particularly festive lining steps). Without stakes, the lanterns measure just over 6 inches tall, and in-ground they're just over a foot high. They're made of rust-resistant metal and plastic, with a black powder-coated finish, and you can expect them to last for roughly 8 hours on a full charge.

    Reviewers say they’re “spectacular” and “magical at night.”

    2

    Traditional Style

    Beau Jardin Solar Pathway Lights

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (13)

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (14)

    2

    Traditional Style

    Beau Jardin Solar Pathway Lights

    Key Specs

    • Lights Per Pack: 8 (4-pack available)
    • Total Height: 16.5 inches
    • Run-Time: Up to 12 hours
    • Options: 3 finishes; 1 light color (cool white)

    These decorative solar pathway lights are ideal for homes and gardens with a more traditional aesthetic. Their extra-bright, high-contrast cool white LEDs boast up to 12 hours of brightness per charge, and they look vibrant in the dark thanks to their lamps, which are made of glass, not plastic, and feature a pretty lattice pattern.

    They come eight to a pack and the lights run on 900mAh batteries, plus they have a IP65 waterproof rating. They also get a big thumbs-up from customers, with more than 11,000 reviewers awarding the lights an average 4.6 stars. Choose from silver, bronze, or the black that's shown.

    3

    Best “Moon” Light

    Homeimpro Moon Crackle Stake Light

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (15)

    3

    Best “Moon” Light

    Homeimpro Moon Crackle Stake Light

    Key Specs

    • Lights Per Pack: 1
    • Total Height: 40 inches
    • Run-Time: Up to 6 hours
    • Options: 1 finish; 1 light color (warm white)

    This Moon Crackle light is a 40-inch-tall stainless steel garden staff, topped with a crescent moon cradling a glass LED dome. It's designed to be more of a solo garden accent piece than to light a long pathway, and its run time is roughly 6 hours on a full charge. Still, reviewers adore it, with an average rating of 4.6 stars from nearly 8,200 customers.

    One says it’s “everything I had hoped it would be. It’s bright, yet subtle, and nothing short of beautiful.”

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    4

    Mega Wattage

    Aponuo Solar Pathway Spotlights

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (16)

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (17)

    4

    Mega Wattage

    Aponuo Solar Pathway Spotlights

    Key Specs

    • Lights Per Pack: 4 (2-pack available)
    • Total Height: 2.2 inches (light); 6.1 inches (panel)
    • Run-Time: Up to 12 hours
    • Options: 1 finish; 3 light colors (multi; warm or cool white)

    With an output of 150 lumens each, these solar pathway lights will deliver serious brightness wherever they're installed. You can expect them to shine for up to 8 hours on high and up to 12 hours on low.

    Customers say they use them to showcase sculptures, fountains, and other landscaping features, in addition to providing much-needed illumination for navigation in extra-dark areas.

    These lights are highly reviewed by those seeking “powerful lights,” but note that they must be installed with a small solar panel that's included. (Each spotlight has a 9.8-foot connecting cord.)

    5

    Best for Color

    Nupostai Color-Changing Solar Pathway Lights

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (18)

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (19)

    5

    Best for Color

    Nupostai Color-Changing Solar Pathway Lights

    Key Specs

    • Lights Per Pack: 6 (8-pack available)
    • Total Height: 16.4 inches
    • Run-Time: Up to 13 hours
    • Options: 1 finish; 2 light colors (multi; warm white)

    This six-pack of solar pathway lights is a great way to add a splash of color to your property year-round—not just during the holidays. They feature two lighting modes, so you also have the option of switching to warm-white LEDs, and both cast a sunflower-style design on the ground.

    The pathway lights are said to stay bright for up to 13 hours, with an average charging time of 6 to 8 hours. They also have an IP67 waterproof rating, which is higher than some other sets we cover, and they are frost-resistant.

    6

    Best Modern Design

    Sunwind Bollard Solar Pathway Lights

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (20)

    6

    Best Modern Design

    Sunwind Bollard Solar Pathway Lights

    Key Specs

    • Lights Per Pack: 6
    • Total Height: 15.7 inches
    • Run-Time: Up to 8 hours
    • Options: 1 finish; 1 color (warm white)

    A bollard is a squat, wide pole attached to quays and ships to moor boats, but it's become a catchall term used to describe short, cylindrical posts installed vertically in the ground—just like these mini solar pathway lights.

    They have a sleek, modern look, with a brushed chrome finish and a warm white frosted light that's roughly 6 lumens bright. The lights come in a six-pack and will stay on for up to 8 hours on a full charge.

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    7

    Best Hanging Lanterns

    Home Zone Solar Pathway Lights

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (21)

    7

    Best Hanging Lanterns

    Home Zone Solar Pathway Lights

    Key Specs

    • Lights Per Pack: 4 (2-, 6-, and 8-pack available)
    • Total Height: 24 inches
    • Run-Time: Not provided
    • Options: 1 finish; 1 light color

    These solar pathway lights feature an attractive, crackled glass fixture hung on a 2-foot-tall stainless steel black powder-coated post. They're incredibly easy to install and cast a warm white glow, and each have an output of 10 lumens. The lights pair well with traditional and rustic homes, though their design is versatile enough to work in more contemporary settings, too.

    8

    Best Starburst Lights

    Epic Gadget Solar Pathway Lights (2-Pack)

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (22)

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (23)

    8

    Best Starburst Lights

    Epic Gadget Solar Pathway Lights (2-Pack)

    Now 35% Off

    Key Specs

    • Lights Per Pack: 2
    • Total Height: 10.5 inches
    • Run-Time: Up to 8 hours
    • Options: 1 finish; 1 light color (multi)

    If you are hoping to spark conversation with your pathway lights, this two-pack of firework solar lights may be the way to go.

    The multicolor string lights are solar-powered and waterproof, with flexible branches that can be shaped as desired. Each measures 10.5 inches in diameter, and features 105 small lights. They add brightness and fun to walkways, and party hosts love to set them up around the yard for whimsical touches of sparkle.

    9

    Most Subtle Lights

    VeRosky Disk LED Solar Pathway Lights

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (24)

    9

    Most Subtle Lights

    VeRosky Disk LED Solar Pathway Lights

    Key Specs

    • Lights Per Pack: 8
    • Total Height: 5.3 inches
    • Run Time: Up to 10 hours
    • Options: 1 finish; 1 light color (warm white)

    This 8-pack of solar pathway lights provides enough brightness— without drawing attention to themselves—and get an impressive average rating of 4.8 stars from more than 4,000 reviewers. The silver disks sit flush with the ground and have an IP65 waterproof rating, and shine for up to 10 hours after a full day of charging.

    Each disk has two ground spikes, a 5.4-inch panel, and warm white LED bulbs. They run on replaceable built-in 600 mAh batteries.

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    10

    Best Tiki-Style

    Aityvert Solar Flickering Flame Torch Lights

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (25)

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (26)

    10

    Best Tiki-Style

    Aityvert Solar Flickering Flame Torch Lights

    Key Specs

    • Lights Per Pack: 4 ( 1- and 2-pack available)
    • Total Height: 43 inches
    • Run-Time: Up to 12 hours (summer); 5 hours (winter)
    • Options: 1 finish; 1 light color (warm white)

    This four-pack of tiki-torch-style lights is a wonderful way to welcome guests up your pathway, but many also use these lights as a decorative element at outdoor barbecues or while camping.

    The LED “flames” cast a safe, moody glow. The solar torches can be installed at two heights: roughly 30 inches, and 43 inches with an included extension pole. They come with a built-in rechargeable battery that gives light for 12 hours in summer and 5 hours in winter, when fully charged.

    Reviewers “LOVE these lights,” calling them “amazing,” “realistic” and “beautiful."

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (27)

    Kathleen Willcox

    Kathleen Willcox is a journalist who writes about parenting, technology, shopping, food and wine. Her work appears in a variety of publications, including Popular Mechanics, Wine Enthusiast and SevenFifty Daily. She is based in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., where she lives with her husband and twins.

    These Solar Pathway Lights Will Make Any Outdoor Space Brighter and More Brilliant (2024)

    FAQs

    How do I make my outdoor solar lights brighter? ›

    First, try pointing the light in a different direction. It won't be as bright if it's not pointed directly at the sun. Next, try moving it to a spot that gets more sun exposure. If that doesn't work, try changing the angle of the light.

    Are solar powered pathway lights worth it? ›

    Unlike with wired landscape lighting, solar powered landscape lighting won't affect your monthly utility bill. Those savings may seem minimal, but add up over time: For example, it could cost about $60 per year to power a 100-watt street light.

    How do solar pathway lights work? ›

    They capture the sun's rays during the day to charge a battery, then run lighting off that battery when the sun goes down. It's a simple concept, but there are tradeoffs, lighting professionals told CNET. These lights are simple to place around your yard, because you don't have to run a power cord to them.

    How effective are solar outdoor lights? ›

    Solar lights are designed to be energy-efficient, balancing brightness with the need to conserve stored power, which can result in lower light output compared to their wired counterparts.

    What is the best and brightest outdoor solar lights? ›

    Best Overall

    Our top pick for most outdoor spaces is the AloftSun Motion Sensor Solar Landscape Spotlights. During testing, they withstood all of our durability tests, were easy to use, and were even bright enough to read under!

    What is the best wattage for outdoor solar lights? ›

    For applications with moderate mounting heights, such as residential driveways or medium-sized outdoor areas, solar flood lights with wattages between 30 and 80 watts are recommended. These lights offer a wider coverage area and increased brightness.

    How many years do solar pathway lights last? ›

    How long do solar lights last? Solar lights typically last for between 6 and 10 hours each night and operate for 2 to 5 years. By bringing your solar lights inside during the winter, it is possible to extend their expected lifespan.

    What is the downside of solar lights? ›

    In conclusion, solar street lights offer a number of advantages, including cost-effectiveness, reliability, and ease of installation. However, they also have some disadvantages, such as being weather dependent, having limited brightness, and requiring some maintenance.

    What is the best brand of solar lights? ›

    If you are looking for the best brand of solar lights, look no further than Brightech. They offer a wide variety of high-quality solar lights that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations. We highly recommend Brightech for all of your solar lighting needs!

    Where should solar path lights be placed? ›

    Other Tips for Placing Walkway Lights
    • Don't place solar lights too close to each other. ...
    • Don't place a light right on a corner where a pathway turns on an angle. ...
    • Look for ways to use solar lights to highlight an interesting bush, garden element or group of plantings.
    Apr 19, 2023

    Should you leave solar lights out in winter? ›

    If you have a long winter or extreme weather conditions in your area, it would be better to change the battery every year. Solar lights for garden can be left outside year round, even in cold weather.

    Do solar lights need sun or just light? ›

    Solar LED lights needs sunlight to work but they do not necessarily need direct sunlight. In fact, these lights can still get charged and work on cloudy days or in areas with partial shade. The solar panel will still collect energy from the sun even if it is not exposed directly.

    What is the best brand of solar lights for outside? ›

    Urpower Outdoor Solar Lights

    Our best overall pick for their brightness and durability, this URPOWER Solar Lights Outdoor set was designed with wet weather and water exposure in mind.

    Is it OK to leave solar lights on all night? ›

    The beauty of solar lights is that they can remain lit the entire night. They are maintenance-free and it is absolutely okay to leave them on all night. They automatically switch on at dusk and switch off at sunrise without any manual operation.

    Why are my solar lights not very bright? ›

    The most common reason for dimming solar lights is that the rechargeable batteries are dying. If the battery is low, it's important to remove the battery right away. A defunct battery can erode, leak acid, and damage electrical components.

    Why are my solar lights not as bright anymore? ›

    Firstly, battery problems are one of the most common reasons why solar lights become dim. Over time, the batteries lose their ability to hold a charge, which can lead to dim or non-functioning lights. Secondly, dirty solar panels can prevent the light from charging efficiently, which can lead to dimming.

    How do you restore cloudy solar lights? ›

    Method 2 – Restoring Cloudy Panels

    If you have a soft cloth or sponge available, use it to wipe away any foreign matter from the solar panel. If you need more heavy-duty cleaning, we recommend using distilled water with a soft cloth or sponge to remove stubborn dirt and grime from your solar lights' surface.

    How can I boost my solar lights? ›

    Turn off the lights and let them charge more efficiently for 72 hours. Your solar lights will charge much more efficiently when they're turned off. Be sure to leave them outside in a place where they'll still receive as much sunlight as possible.

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