Pathways by themselves can be an excellent feature of your home, but why not spice things up with some solar path lights? We put together a guide with all of the best solar path lights.
Solar path lights make a great addition to the exterior of your home. Nothing beats being greeted by beautiful, bright lights as you make your way to your front door. They give off an inviting nature to the home as they illuminate the pathway and light up the house. Not only do they add to your home’s curb appeal, but they are also energy-efficient and cost-effective.
We’ve put together a detailed review of the eleven best solar path lights to help you make a more precise decision that best fits your home.
How We Reviewed Best Outdoor Solar Path Lights
Our mission is to make the world a little greener. And that starts in everyone’s home. So we take our reviews of solar path lights seriously.
We want to share with you our process for reviewing the best solar path lights:
- The solar path lights must have at least 100 reviews and over 4 stars to pass our success criteria.
- Then the company has to have a good return policy.
- Next, we eliminate solar path lights with serious issues coming up in the reviews.
- After combing through the solar path light specifications, we remove any of the cheap products made from cheap materials.
- Last, but now least… we look at price. Each solar path light has to be a good value.
Top 11 Best Outdoor Solar Path Lights
1. OAKLEAF LED Solar Lights
These simple pathway lights complement any garden, making it a great option for your home. They’re easy to install by effortlessly placing them into the ground — no wires, cords, or batteries needed. Featuring a solar panel and built-in battery, the warm white LED light located inside a clear plastic lens allows for the optimal light effect. Created with three different finishes, they’re an excellent choice if you’re going for a more vintage look.
Since they require little to no effort setting up, they’re very cost-effective. Its powerful luminosity makes them easy to spot from far away — a path light that’s sure to turn heads.
OAKLEAF LED Solar Light Pros
- Easy to install
- Waterproof
- Emit a bright “yellowish” light for a more natural look
- Light up automatically for up to 8 hours at night
OAKLEAF LED Solar Light Cons
- Cheaper option
- Plastic may break easily if not handled with care
- While it’s waterproof, it may not hold up in a storm
- Primarily meant as a short-term solution
2. TomCare Flickering Flames Solar Path Lights
If you’re looking for something more eye-catching, check out these 43″ TomCare Flickering Flames Solar Path Lights. They’re waterproof, run entirely on solar power, light up to 12 hours, and if that’s not enough, they’ve received raving reviews by thousands on Amazon.
The LED lights are strategically placed to create an image of a “dancing flame.” With no wiring required, it’s easy to install and can be placed anywhere.
It comes in a pack of 4, but each one is quite large — at 43″ — which allows for a long ground stake. Each also has an on/off switch and takes approximately 8 hours to charge under direct sunlight. These unique and torch-like solar path lights are a great option for any yard.
TomCare Flickering Flames Solar Path Light Pros
- Easy to install
- Large, bright light
- Weather-resistant
- No wires
TomCare Flickering Flames Solar Path Light Cons
- It comes in a set of only 4 lights
- Battery packs are not replaceable, so if the batteries burn out, you have to buy a new set of lights
- Stakes are plastic, making them easy to break if not handles with care
3. Maggift Hanging Shepherd Hook Solar Lights
If you’re going for something a little bit fancier, you may want to consider these Maggift Hanging Shepherd Hook Solar Lights. These unique style lanterns make a perfect solution to your pathway, garden, porch, or yard.
The package includes two 7 x 12 lanterns equipped with 4 lumens LED bulbs. The lanterns can be easily removed from the Shepherd Hook. Not only do they require no electricity, but they’re also built with a light sensor powered entirely by free solar energy. Rechargeable batteries are also provided.
It’s also hands-free — meaning no wiring or extensive set-up is needed. All you have to do is assemble the shepherd’s hooks by screwing the poles together, stake them into the ground under direct sunlight, hang the lights, and you’re done! These lights are sure to add a touch of charming atmosphere to your home.
Maggift Hanging Shepherd Hook Solar Light Pros
- Easy to install
- Lanterns can be removed from the hook
- Includes a waterproof IP44 solar panel
- Long-lasting
- Thick plastic material makes it suitable for extreme weather conditions
Maggift Hanging Shepherd Hook Solar Light Cons
- May not seem very bright
- While they’re designed to stay lit for up to 8 hours throughout the duration of the night, many reviewers notice they only stay lit for up to 4 or 6 hours
4. BefuTech Outdoor Solar Path Lights
These simple yet charming outdoor solar lights add excellent illumination to your pathway. The 6-pack of entirely solar-powered lights are also weather-resistant; whether it be snow, rain, sleet, wind, or frost, they’re tough enough to withstand any unpredictable weather condition.
Made with higher quality material, the glass material also adds a beautiful kaleidoscope pattern — adding what some reviewers have said is a “magical mood” along your pathway.
Designed to run all night, these solar path lights can be installed under direct sunlight. For optimum performance, let the lights sit for about 10 hours; thereafter, the lights should run for at least 8 to 12 hours.
Make your backyard safer, more comfortable, and add a touch of beauty with these solar path lights. The BefuTech solar power path lights are designed with superior craftsmanship, reliable customer support, and true quality assurance you can trust.
BefuTech Outdoor Solar Path Light Pros
- Wireless and easy to install
- Waterproof IP55
- Rustproof
- Provides long hours of continuous lighting
BefuTech Outdoor Solar Path Light Cons
- Only charge under direct sunlight; indirect sunlight will result in dimmer lighting
- Plastic stakes are very fragile
5. YUNLIGHTS Outdoor Solar Path Lights
If you’re going for a more modern or even sci-fi look, these solar path lights might be the choice for you. They’re unique and easy to install. Just place them in the ground under direct sunlight, and that’s it! This beautiful light resource uses free solar power — no wiring or batteries needed.
Each bulb contains 5 LED light beads to provide optimal illumination. The built-in 400 mAh batteries provide up to 8 hours of light, so your pathway can stay glowing all night long.
The lights are also ensured by an IP65 rating that they’re waterproof and weather resistant. After the solar light soaks up the sun throughout the day, the lights will turn on automatically when it gets dark, so you’ll always have light for your path.
YUNLIGHTS Outdoor Solar Path Light Pros
- Easy to install
- Bright, luminous LED bulbs
- Fully charged after 6-8 hours of sunlight
YUNLIGHTS Outdoor Solar Path Light Cons
- Expensive
- Must be exposed to direct sunlight to charge fully
- LED’s shine directly upwards, rather than scattering light
6. TomCare Dancing Flame Solar Path Lights
Similar to the previous TomCare solar path lights on our list, this selection gives a unique “dancing flame” effect that lights up your pathway, garden, or yard. The powerful lumen encased in the plastic gives off a warm, yellowish colored light that allows for a more natural appearance — a feature that’s sure to add charm to your home.
Made of durable and waterproof ABS plastic, these solar lights can withstand any weather conditions and be installed anywhere. Equipped with high-efficiency solar panels and high capacity battery, the lights will stay activated for up to 10 hours in the summer and 5 hours in winter. Being entirely solar-powered, you can say goodbye to complicated wiring set-up.
It automatically turns off at dawn with a built-in sensitive light sensor and turns on at dusk to give off beautiful flame-like lights.
TomCare Dancing Flame Solar Path Light Pros
- Easy to install
- Waterproof
- Durable material
- Unique, flame design
TomCare Dancing Flame Solar Path Light Cons
- May not last very long; some reviewers said they began to fade after approximately 8 months
- Not as bright, especially on cloudy days
7. Maggift Solar Powered LED Garden Lights for Pathways
For a more unconventional look, these Maggift Garden Lights make a great addition to your pathway. The enclosed lighting allows for a kaleidoscope pattern of scattering light that’s sure to catch your neighbor’s attention.
The 100% solar-powered lights include a “box” enclosure surrounding the LEDs, producing up to 8 hours of light. With no electricity required, the stylish lights automatically come on at night and automatically turn off dawn. They’re also weather-resistant, so you don’t have to worry about rain, snow, or frost ruining your lights.
Maggift Solar Powered LED Garden Lights for Pathways Pros
- Pack of 8
- Unique design
- Easy to install
- Durable
- Emit warm light
Maggift Solar Powered LED Garden Lights for Pathways Cons
- Primarily designed for decoration
- Only 3 lumens, so they’re not meant to be very bright
8. Plow & Hearth LED Bronze Solar Path Lights
If you’re looking for guaranteed quality, look, performance, and feel of a product, the Plow & Hearth Solar Path Lights could be a great option. Made with 50 lumens, these lights are sure to be a bright solution to your pathway.
Considering the lumen count is far above most solar path lights (nearly 10x more), this option is primarily for those looking to provide as much light as possible. It’s made with high-quality material, with a tiered ripple glass covering for optimal illumination. The heavy-duty aluminum construction ensures they’re durable and worthy of withstanding any weather conditions.
When fully charged, the extra-large solar panels allow for up to 10 hours of nighttime lighting. The lights automatically come on at night and automatically turn off at night.
Plow & Hearth LED Bronze Solar Path Light Pros
- 100% solar powered
- Easy to install
- Heavy-duty material
- 50 lumens
Plow & Hearth LED Bronze Solar Path Light Cons
- Requires more direct sun to charge fully
- Expensive
- Many reviewers commented they do not last very long through the night
9. Signature Garden Solar Path Lights
For a simple yet charming look, these Signature Garden Solar Path Lights contain 15 lumens in each bulb to ensure your path is brightly lit. The 6-pack allows you to place the lights along your pathway to provide both beauty and safety.
The 100% solar-powered lights require no installation; no wires = no hassle! Since the sun’s power comes freely, you don’t have to worry about overspending on the electricity bill.
Made with ABS plastic and high-quality stainless steel construction, there’s no need to worry about the durability of your lights; rain, snow, sleet, and frost won’t affect their functionality. And in the case they stop working, they come with a 100% Lifetime Replacement.
These solar lights also come with an auto on/off switch — they automatically turn on at night, and after 8 hours, automatically turn off at dawn. Simply push the stake into the ground, let the solar panels charge in the sunlight, and admire their luminosity at night. Beautify your garden or pathway with these simple, easy to install, and durable solar lights.
Signature Garden Solar Path Light Pros
- Easy to install
- No wiring
- Waterproof
- Weather-resistant
- High-quality material
Signature Garden Solar Path Light Cons
- Many reviewers experienced the lights to stop working after about 1 year
- Not rustproof
- Lasts under 8 hours during the night
10. GIGALUMI Outdoor Solar Powered Path Lights
These solar lights offer superior quality, sufficient luminosity, and a unique vintage design — making them a great option for your pathway.
Add a bit of class to your yard with these Gigalumi lights. Each light has a unique framework encasing the LED bulb. The solar-powered light ensures they’re energy-efficient and helps you save money on the electricity bill.
Each lantern is easy to install and simple to use. Place the stake in soft soil and make sure the solar panels receive sufficient sun (up to 8 hours) to stay fully charged throughout the night.
Arrange your solar path lights along the pathway for a charming, glowing lighting effect. The warm, soft light emitted creates a romantic atmosphere that’s sure to fascinate passersby.
GIGALUMI Outdoor Solar Powered Path Light Pros
- Easy to install
- Waterproof
- Weather-resistant
- Durable material
GIGALUMI Outdoor Solar Powered Path Light Cons
- Primarily for decoration
- Due to the powder-coated windows, the lanterns do not emit very bright light
- Illumination depends on the geographical location, weather conditions, and seasonal light availability
11. Aityvert Flickering Flame Outdoor Solar Lights
Last but not least, the Aityvert Flickering Flame solar path lights add a little bit of pizzazz to your yard with a distinct flame-like design. Rather than buying tiki torches, these flickering flame solar lights make a safer alternative. Each LEDs casts a soft, warm glow to create the perfect optical illusion of a real flame.
Constructed with an IP65 waterproof design, these lights are tough enough to last through whatever the weather has in-store. Also, the lights automatically turn on at dusk and off at dawn.
With a built-in rechargeable 2200mAh battery entirely powered by solar energy, these lights are sure to keep your path lit for up to 10 hours. The easy installation allows for a more enjoyable experience, as well. Simply install the lights outside, allow for 8 hours of charging time, and sit back and enjoy the charming ambiance of your flickering flame solar lights.
Aityvert Flickering Flame Outdoor Solar Light Pros
- Easy to install
- Waterproof
- Long-lasting
- Excellent customer service
Aityvert Flickering Flame Outdoor Solar Light Cons
- Light pole is considered short
- Rather pricey
- Stake is made of plastic, meaning its prone to break easily
Shopping For The Best Outdoor Solar Path Lights
There are still many things to consider prior to purchasing the best solar landscape lights. Let’s look at some of the key factors.
Design Of Solar Lights
First, we must consider the desired design of your path lights. Solar path lights come in a variety of designs. Whether it’s a modern, vintage, rustic, or flame-like design, there’s sure to be a solar path light set on the market that suits your taste.
However, if you’re going for a more ornamental design, you may have to sacrifice the bulbs’ brightness or luminosity. Most decorative path lights aren’t known for their brightness, but rather, their design and appeal.
Solar Light Brightness
Your solar path lights’ brightness will depend on two things: its lumen count and how much direct sunlight it receives.
Before purchasing a set, keep in mind that it’s recommended you place your lights under direct sunlight. People who experience dark or dimmer lighting often make the mistake of placing their lights near shaded or bushy areas of the yard.
Regarding lumen count, most solar path light sets will range anywhere from 1 to 30 lumens. The higher the lumen count, the brighter the bulb. You would need less lumens for solar lights indoors. And more lumens for outdoors.
Another contributing factor (but slightly less significant) to brightness is the size of the bulb. But keep in mind that, in some cases, a light can have a smaller bulb and higher lumen, depending on the lumen count.
Battery Charge Capacity
The charge depends on the type of bulb; for example, many solar path lights on the market have LED lights known to emit longer and brighter light compared to fluorescent or incandescent lights.
For a longer-lasting charge, always double-check the description to make sure you’re getting LED lights.
Color Of Light
Before buying a set, compare and contrast different light colors. The coloring depends entirely on personal preference. Are you looking for a bright, white light? Or perhaps a soft, warmer illumination?
Many don’t realize how big of an impact color can have on the overall appearance of light. If you plan on sticking to solar-powered lights, keep in mind that they tend to give off amber hues.
Cost Of Solar Light
Lastly, there’s the cost to consider. Your price point will determine the quality of your path lights. A more expensive set will generally be composed of higher-quality stainless steel, aluminum, or glass. A less expensive set will often be constructed with cheaper materials, such as plastic.
In the case of solar pathway lights, you want to search for something catered to your personal taste while also being realistic. Don’t expect to find top-notch quality lights for cheap. There’s also repairs or replacement to consider. If your lights stop working, make sure ahead of time you’re willing to be a little flexible with your budget.
Conclusion
Solar path lights always make a great addition to the exterior of your home. With the dozens of options on the market to choose from and the variety of factors to consider, choosing the best outdoor solar path lights can seem overwhelming. Thankfully, we’ve made things easier for you and provided a detailed list of the best outdoor solar path lights we could find.
Any one of these options is sure to add to your home’s charm and curb appeal. And even better, they’re all solar-powered, making them cost-effective and an overall better option for the environment.
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