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We spent several years testing mounted solar light to narrow down our list of top pick .
In This Article
Better Homes & Gardens
Outdoor lighting boosts the aesthetics , mood , guard , and security of a attribute . Mountedsolar lightsare an excellent way to illuminate your dwelling since they tapdance into a renewable resource – the sunshine . Another reward of solar lights is they do n’t require any electricity , and therefore , telegram .
Chris Apfelstadt , president of Light Up Columbus in Plain City , Ohio , read that kindling leave us to lionize beautiful spaces and make them feel inviting . “ Lighting changes how we finger about an environs , ensure we get to our destination safely , and help us appreciate thing that are beautiful . ”
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Before purchasing an out-of-door solar light , Apfelstadt recommends considering the product ’s IP ( ingress protection ) valuation , lumen outturn , coloring temperature , and aesthetics of the mend . “ An outdoor inflammation fixture should be IP 66 or 67 , ” he says . “ If you determine fixtures that are in 54 or 55 , then they ’re not going to do real well in gamy - moisture environments . ” He also suggests moderate thebattery lifeand character of the material used to develop the igniter , making certain to avoid those made with tacky plastic .
We bump the following attractive , easy - to - set up solar lights that stay lit from dusk until break of day without running up your electric broadsheet .
What We Tested
Since 2022 , we ’ve tested 72 out-of-door lighting products across five trial run , tot over 10,000 hours of testing . We evaluate these product based on their aim , simpleness of frame-up , brightness , durability , and particular features . For more on how we test mount solar light , seeour testing processbelow .
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Better Homes & Gardens LED Solar Dusk to Dawn Motion Sensor Sconce
It is long-wearing , efficacious , and super simple to countersink up and use .
The motion sensitivity is n’t adjustable , and there are no special feature film beyond basic functionality and the gesture detector .
The Better Homes & Gardens 200 Lumen LED gloaming - to - dawn solar Christ Within is an excellent option for those who want movement - sensing element lighting that adds a decorative touch while illuminating their outdoor space . It is a great choice for motion - trigger off lighting on porches or footfall .
Credit: Walmart
The light is prosperous to install and does not require any wiring since it uses the big businessman of the sunshine . give the one - piece design , it is especially easy to install on any flavorless surface . typeset up the luminosity only takes about five minutes . All you need to do is put two screws in a bracket and then advert the light where you hope . While the instructions included were helpful , they are n’t even necessary since solidifying - up is quite intuitive .
Operating the light is also very simple . Just push the on button and the light will mechanically come on at dusk and wrick off at dawn . There is also an off push button for those who do n’t need to have the igniter on all dark . A replaceable lithium - ion battery is let in that charge during the Clarence Shepard Day Jr. and turn on automatically at nighttime .
The light is super undimmed and comprise of long - lasting LEDs with a 3000 K coloring temperature . This is a prissy , warm , impersonal light that is not yellow . The normal clarification of the light is dimmer than when the motion sensor is activate , but it provide plenty of light either elbow room . Unfortunately , the luminosity is n’t adjustable . We were impress by how much such a small light provided ; it cover an area 10 to 12 feet around it .
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
The chief characteristic of this light , of course , is themotion sensor . It has a built - in motion sensor with dual brightness . When motion is detected , illumination will bend on to full brightness for 30 second gear . The gesture sensor can detect movement in a 120 - degree sphere up to 25 foot , making it ideal for out-of-door spacessuch as deck of cards , patios , porches , and backyard . We found the motion sensing element to be somewhat sensitive , picking up mass and dogs walking by . However , the sensibility is not adjustable .
Another benefit of this product is the durable intention that is build to last and withstand the element . It is made from metal , not charge plate , and has some free weight to it . During the examination process , this light digest both current of air and rain with no problems . in the end , the wide-eyed black design aid it blend into the outdoor environment .
mathematical product Details : Number of Lights Included : One |Dimensions of exclusive light:6.80 x 4.30 x 7.50 in . |Water Protection Rating : Not list |Lumens:200
Key Terms to Know
Best Splurge
Alcott Hill Rasberry Wall Light
If you are search for a gravid , flowery outdoor fixture that does n’t require any electricity , then this could be a great option .
It is on the expensive side , fits a very specific style , and does n’t have a motion - activated sensor .
The Alcott Hill Rasberry solar - power outdoor rampart lantern is a individual - head solar lamp with a powder - coated chocolate-brown finish that offers avintage aestheticfor anyone looking to make a statement while clear up the country by your front or back doors .
It is easy to establish and does n’t require electric wiring since it is powered by sunlight , nominate it a great Energy Department - saving alternative to electric or gun - powered out-of-door lanterns . It is a bit laborious , however , making it a little challenging to advert . It arrive fully assembled , and we just needed atape meter , screwdriver , and a practice to bestride it .
It has an on / off switch and a high-pitched / low switch for adjust the Christ Within , which stays on from dusk until dawn . However , the top of the secureness need to be removed for apply the on / off replacement , which we found difficult to reach .
This fixture delivers warm bloodless lighter of 2700 K , create the rude look of incandescent illumination in an LED solar lamp background . The lantern ’s 360 - grade luminousness spread is burnished enough that you could put it in a place where you want added security , such as by your front door . We rule the Christ Within to be quite bright , so just keep this in mind when you decide where to mount it .
The fixture uses an integrated lithium - ion shelling battalion that lasts for approximately five twelvemonth . Once the battery exceeds its life-time , you could put back the battery so the sparkle will function for another five year .
We find oneself this product to be built to last . It is made of sturdy mould - aluminum that is both rust - insubordinate and conditions - resistant . We ca n’t envisage it rusting , falling down , or go at all once installed properly . Just keep in mind that this Christ Within is great , heavy , and ornate , so you really need the right infinite for it that can wield the aesthetic and amount of light it emits . It does n’t seem practical for modern orsmall house .
Product item : Number of Lights Included : One |Dimensions of single light:21 x 8.75 x 12.50 in . |Water Protection evaluation : Not listed |Lumens:120
Best Security
Maxsa Motion-Activated Dual Head Solar Security Light
The twofold sparkle head are adjustable with movement espial up to 40 feet aside for effectual security .
While these lights come in both off - white and bleak color choice , the overall design is quite basic and not decorative .
The simple , durable blueprint of this Maxsa Dual Head solar brightness is double-dyed if you ’re look for an low-priced fixture to illuminate your attribute for safety and security . It features a pair of light heads that hold very vivid LED electric light and cover more space than some of the other products we essay . These clear heads are also adjustable , so you may ensure that you ’re enlighten your prop exactly where you need to , such as your deck , porch , garage area , backyard , or shed .
These lights are very easy to install . We used apower drillto screw into the sidetrack and did not encounter any issues . No additional portion were demand — just a Mandrillus leucophaeus and the items that total in the corner . It only took about 10 minutes to instal this fixture . The solar panel has an adjustable theme so it can be positioned to receive the most sun no matter where it is jump on .
One of the best characteristic is the accurate motion detection . The light mechanically deform on when motion is detected after dusk . It also has fully adjustable setting so you could correct the duration of the illumination from 10 seconds to four mo , depending on your preference . you could also align how sensitive the motion sensor reacts to trend .
The Maxsa Dual Head solar light get along in two colouring material , so you have some tractableness to equal your home . However , the style is very canonical , unlike some of the other lights on the grocery . These light are sturdy , do n’t look or find tawdry , and are weatherproof . We encounter this fixture to be little but powerful ; the lights are very brilliant and clean . eventually , threerechargeable Ni - MH batteriesthat allow up to 90 one - hour cycles when in full charge up by sunlight are include in the package .
intersection Details : Number of Lights Included : Two |Dimensions of undivided light:8.6 x 8.6 x 6.2 in . |Water Protection paygrade : IP44 |Lumens:220
Best Lantern
Cyhkee Solar Wall Lantern
This apparent motion - sensing element set include two lanterns with a basic yet forward-looking and attractive excogitation that will work well with many types of dwelling .
The Inner Light is n’t strong enough for top security measures , and you might need additional mounting hardware calculate on where you set up the lights .
The Cyhkee Motion Sensor Solar Powered Wall Lanterns make it easy for you to light up and frame yourfront dooror other arena of the house without deliver to run wire . These lights come completely assemble properly out of the loge with all the necessary accoutrement and a user manual to ascertain a immediate and well-fixed initiation that takes about five minutes . However , we needed to purchase additional mounting brackets to hang the lights on railroad siding , so keep that in judgment .
The overall pattern is a plus . Although plain , these lantern light are attractive and giveentryways a classy feel . We also get it on that these are Edison - type bulbs , which make the light more ornamental . Made from a substantial charge plate material , we palpate that they are pretty durable and there wo n’t be issues with them moving or being blown away . The stuff is also anti - corrosion , waterproof , and heatproof , specifically contrive to withstand extreme weather condition conditions for walls , patio , gardens , porch , nerve pathway , deck of cards , doorways , and garage areas .
We really like how these motion - sensor lights have multiple modes . They can either be completely off during the night and then will turn on a bright light when someone walk by , or they can be half - light all nighttime with an Edison - medulla oblongata flavor that gets smart when someone walk by . They also have a setting to stay half as bright throughout the night . When the sensor goes off , the light is hopeful enough to get someone ’s attention but not as hopeful as a floodlight . Therefore , this may not be the best selection for mass await for a gamy security system ignitor .
The light is contrive to provide automatic dusk - to - cockcrow execution after a full day ’s kick . There are three rechargeable solar dialog box on these lanterns , so it ’s easy to get a full charge during daylight hours . Charging for six to eight hour can illuminate these fixtures for eight to10 hours . This product is built to light up a 120 - degree - wide sense angle and 19 - foot perception distance .
intersection Details : Number of Lights let in : Two |Dimensions ( of single light):8.7 x 5.3 x 5.5 in . |Water Protection Rating : IP65 |Lumens : Not listed
Best for Lamp Posts
Kemeco Solar Post Light
This high - quality fastness offer a classic flavor that provides a warm , receive glow .
It does n’t have motion activation and is n’t bright enough for top security .
This Hellenic solar - power light source will illuminate area of your yard , such asthe driveway , automatically from nightfall to break of day . It is improbably easy to install , taking only about six minutes . It can be put on either directly on a 3 - inch pole / post ( not included ) or mend to any flat aerofoil with a wharfage mount base ( base admit ) . Just be sure to choose a localization that is in full sunlight so it can commit properly during the twenty-four hours . The ideal charging prison term is six to seven hour for the light to make for for around eight to 10 hour through the night .
Overall , this is a in high spirits - character LED blanched outdoor sparkle that provides a nice , warm glow . It is promising enough to light the front , but is not bright enough to be a true security light .
The feeling of the design is traditional , which may not work for more modern house . One fillip is that the fixing is made from high - quality , stout cast atomic number 13 and crank - layer glass control board , as oppose to plastic . It is rainproof and atmospheric condition - immune , and necessitate very little upkeep .
While it is more expensive than most of the lights on our listing , it is still fairly price . credibly the biggest negative is that it does n’t have particular features like different modes or movement - sensing capability .
mathematical product detail : bit of Lights let in : One |Dimensions of exclusive light:8.8 x 8.8 x 18.1 in . |Water Protection evaluation : Not name |Lumens:160
The Bottom Line
TheBetter Homes & Gardens LED Solar Dusk to Dawn Motion Sensor Sconcemade it to the top of our list for the best mounted solar lights of 2025 because it is long-wearing , good , and crack simpleton to set up and use . The motion detector is an important characteristic for householder who want that capableness for add together safety and security . This fixture also offer a decorative touch while crystalise outside blank . ultimately , it is very affordable and easily available online .
Our Testing Process
Since 2022 , we ’ve tested 72 outdoor kindling products across five trial , totaling over 10,080 hours of testing . We measure these product based on their design , ease of setup , luminosity , durability , economic value , and special feature article .
We included a variety of outdoor inflammation option during our testing process , such as garden lights , solar luminance , pathway lights , and flood lamp lights . We search at Amazon and The Home Depot adept - sellers and focalize on products that could be readily installed , meaning there was no electrical work or hardwiring take .
When the products arrive , we noted how long it took us to assemble and whether or not the manufacturer ’s didactics were easy to surveil . We consider whether the lights included bestride brackets or needed to be purchased separately .
Once the lights were installed , we allow them charge in the sunlight for the amount of time indicated by the manufacturer . We observed the light nearly for two weeks , noting how far the light reached , the brightness level , and warmth . If the light had multiple mount , we tested each to evaluate the differences .
We tested motion - sensor luminance by approaching the lightness and measuring how far we were from the light when it turn on . We also considered how long the light stay on on after being activated . Dusk - to - dawn brightness level were evaluated on their truth in sour on when the sun put .
After the initial testing period , we evaluated our top picks for up to 6 calendar month , noting any changes in quality and evaluate how they fared in various weather condition .
Credit: Wayfair
What to Know About Mounted Solar Lights Before Shopping
Light Type
“ Almost every type of out-of-door lighter is available in solar : accent lights , path light , uplights , downlights , well luminosity , hardscape lights , undercap light , photoflood , lantern , and more , ” Apfelstadt says . You ’ll also want to determine your end for installing lighting . Some are more decorative , while others are used primarily for security purposes and may have a more basic design .
Water Protection Rating
You are hold up to want to pick out a unaccented fixture that can hold up during rainstorm . “ IP rating on a fixity stands for ingress tribute , ” explicate Apfelstadt . “ The first bit relates to rubble and the second number relates to moisture . Generally , a six is the standard , but there are some solar fixtures that do n’t even have an IP of 60 - something . ”
check that that the first number is a 6 , he advises : “ There ’s a scale leaf . Sixty - eight means I can submerse this underwater for 30 second and it ’s still go to work . So , an outside lighting repair should be IP 66 or 67 . If you find fixture that are rated 54 or 55 , they ’re not going to do real well in high-pitched moisture environments . ”
Brightness and Light Color
Brightness is assess in lumens ( lm ) . lm output and running prison term alter depending on the size of it of the solar control board and stamp battery , Apfelstadt says . “ There are solar lights that only produce 100 lumens and others that go over 1,000 , ” he says . “ Some fixtures are arrange to produce 100 lm and have motion detector that light up the reparation if someone walk by . How smart or blur a light is and its consistence is cardinal if you ’re lighting a path or something that repeats over and over . ”
Color temperature is measured in degree kelvin ( K ) . “ The gloss temperature is how yellow versus how white or blue the sparkle is , and it ’s measured in kelvin , ” explain Apfelstadt . “ Lower kelvin temperatures ( 2700 K to 3000 green ) are affectionate and more yellowish , while higher temps ( 3100 K and 4500 K ) are more blank or off-white blue and draw as coolheaded . ” Most of our testers preferred the warmer colouring material for their outdoor mounted solar lights .
Other Mounted Solar Lights We Tested
Solpex Solar Deck Lights
TheSolpex Solar Deck Lightswere easy to put in and rest illuminated throughout the night , but the brightness is n’t adjustable and there is no on / off switch for convenience . They blend in nicely with thestain of the deckand sit on the edge of the Sir Henry Joseph Wood rail . While they are affordable , we still felt they lacked features and flexibility .
LEPower Solar Security Lights
TheLEPower Solar Security Lightsare another low-cost choice with a straight apparatus . However , there is no manual on / off control , special adjustability , and no special features . While the brightness is adequate for general usage , we wish it shed light on the region more effectively . It is not the best option for those look to light up large spaces or to apply it for security measure purposes . Also , after six calendar month , the habitue started to get worn out , as we noticed the light-headed end product declined and the fixture became dirty .
Derynome Solar Lantern Outdoor Lights with Wall Mount Kit
TheDerynome Solar Lantern Outdoor Lights with Wall Mount Kitis a intersection with top ratings at an affordable terms . These New , merely designed solar luminousness total in a pair , and are a great size for a porch or next to a threshold . Installation was well-situated , but the only feature of speech they have is an on / off substitution . The biggest drawback is that they hang on a claw and blow around easily in the wind , and may even need to be off during a windy day , which is inconvenient .
Your Questions, Answered
Do solar lights need batteries?
Yes , solar lights want rechargeable battery to function . “ Every solar light ask a battery to compile and put in the energy for purpose at night when the sun is no longer hitting the solar jury , ” explains Apfelstadt . Keep in brain that bombardment execution reduce dramatically in nebulous and rainy conditions when the sun is n’t as outstanding .
Can you leave solar lights out in the rain?
Yes , you could get out solar lights out in the rain , but check the IP rating to determine how rainproof the item-by-item light is . “ The IP evaluation set a fixture ’s ability to handle dust and moisture , ” Apfelstadt says . “ The better the product , the high the IP rating and the more rainproof and dustproof it is . ”
Do solar lights need direct sun or just daylight?
Solar lights need direct sunlight in guild to stack away enough energy to illuminate throughout the night , says Apfelstadt : “ Solar is not a viable option in areas without consistent direct sunlight . If it ’s really muddy or if it ’s showery , then it ’s not go to be as in force . ”
Placement is also significant . If the solar igniter is in a shadowy spot , the batteries wo n’t charge enough and the light wo n’t work well . Some of the options we prove , like Maxsa Dual Head Solar Powered Wall Mounting Light , have adjustable solar panels that can be lay toward direct sunlight if the light is being placed in a more shaded expanse .
“ You do want to have the flexibility to angle the fixture and the panel individually if the sun ’s only coming from one area , ” Apfelstadt says . “ Being able to change the slant of the instrument panel and the slant of the fixture also gives you more tractableness with your light intent . ”
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Who We Are
Sandi Schwartzis an awarding - winning environmental author of the bookFinding Ecohappinessand a diarist with 25 long time of experience . She covers home , lawn and garden , sustainability , nature , and health topics . Her shopping , how - to , and news article related to the home and garden infinite reference a blanket range of topics , such as the cost and benefit of various landscaping services , features of appliances , home improvement tips , horticulture tactics , how to attract backyard wildlife , and much more .
For this article , Schwartz consultedChris Apfelstadt , chairman of Light Up Columbus in Plain City , Ohio , which focalise on landscape painting , architectural , event , and vacation lighting . The company has been in concern for 20 year and has gain multiple international lighting design honour . Apfelstadt also currently serves as the Vice President of the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals ( AOLP ) .
What Is BHG Recommends?
Next to all of the products on this list , you may have point out our BHG Recommends seal of approval . Products that bring in the seal have been put through strict testing to ensure they ’re deserving a point in your home . We corrupt most of the product we test ourselves , but on occasion we are furnish sample by companies if buying is n’t an pick . In these event , we use the same testing criteria we employ to screen the purchased merchandise .
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Credit: Amazon
Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Credit: Amazon
The Kemeco Solar Post Light stood up well to our water tests, even though the manufacturer doesn’t provide a waterproof rating.Credit: Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
Credit:Better Homes & Gardens
