Joybuy Insights

Buying LED string lights: what to consider when choosing, safety and where to use them

LED string lights can add a decorative touch to your living room, balcony, children’s bedroom, patio or garden. But when you’re buying, it’s not just the colour of the globes and the lighting effect that matter. Unclear length measurements, misjudged IP ratings or missing batteries can all lead to unnecessary costs. Check a few technical details before you buy, and you’ll find it easier to choose the right option for your home, parties, weddings or Christmas decorations.

Common pitfalls when buying LED string lights

1. The total length isn’t always the illuminated length

Many product listings include the lead-in cable in the stated length. For example, a 435 cm string light may have an illuminated length of 385 cm, plus a 50 cm power cable. So if you’re planning to hang it along a shelf, window or balcony railing, the illuminated length is what matters.

The distance between the LEDs also affects the overall look. A string light with 10 LEDs spaced 50 cm apart will look different from one with 20 globes spaced 15 cm apart.

2. “For outdoor use” doesn’t automatically mean waterproof

Always check the IP rating. IP44 generally protects against water splashes from different directions, but it isn’t suitable for immersion in water. The battery box, plug and connections shouldn’t be left out in the rain or allowed to become submerged.

An IP20 string light, on the other hand, is designed for dry indoor spaces. It’s suitable for rooms such as living rooms, bedrooms or children’s bedrooms, but not for an unprotected balcony, garden or patio.

3. Additional features can be described in confusing ways

Eight lighting modes, a memory function, remote control and a timer may sound useful, but not every decorative string light includes them. Before you buy, check:

  • Does it have just an on/off switch, or several lighting modes?
  • Is a remote control included?
  • Does the timer, for example, switch the lights off automatically after six hours?
  • Are batteries included?
  • Can you actually dim the lights, or can you only change the lighting mode?

Batteries are often not included with battery-powered LED string lights, so remember to factor them into the ongoing cost.

The key things to consider when buying

Power supply: batteries or mains?

Battery-powered LED string lights can be used away from plug sockets, on shelves, beds and balcony railings, or when you’re out on a picnic. However, the batteries will need replacing regularly. Check how many you need and what type, such as 2 or 3 AA batteries at 1.5 V.

Mains-powered string lights are a good choice for a permanent spot indoors. For example, an Atmosphera string light with 20 globes is listed as using 0.9 W of power and requiring a mains connection. This means you won’t need to keep changing batteries, but you will need a socket within reach.

Light colour and design

A warm white string light at around 3000 K gives off a soft, slightly yellow decorative glow. It works well with wood, textiles, home accessories and traditional Christmas decorations. Multicoloured globes or RGBY LEDs are better suited to parties, children’s bedrooms or seasonal decorations.

With globe string lights, the size and material of the globes are also worth considering. Models with 6 cm globes make more of a statement than delicate wire lights. A compact string light with 10 LEDs may be enough for a small shelf or bedside table, while one with 20 globes can cover a larger area.

IP rating and installation location

For outdoor string lights, make sure the stated IP rating is suitable for where you plan to use them. IP44 models are suitable for sheltered outdoor areas such as a balcony, patio or garden, provided the battery box and connections are protected from direct contact with water. IP20 models are intended for dry indoor spaces only.

Before putting up your lights, check that the lead reaches the socket or battery box and that any hooks, branches or railings can safely support the weight. Don’t trap or modify the cable, or run it near naked flames.

Our picks for different types of shopper

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers
Battery-Operated LED Garland 10 Balls Diam. 6 cm Light pink

Battery-Operated LED Garland 10 Balls Diam. 6 cm Light pink

Why this product suits this shopper: This compact, battery-powered design can be placed on a shelf, sideboard or in the bedroom without needing a socket.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details specify 10 LEDs, two AA batteries, 15 cm between LEDs and a total length of 165 cm, making it easier to work out how much space you’ll need.

Key benefits and features

10 warm white LEDs, 6 cm globes and cordless installation for dry indoor spaces.

Ideal for: Buyers looking for high quality
Atmosphera LED Garland - 20 Balls, 6 cm, Celadon

Atmosphera LED Garland - 20 Balls, 6 cm, Celadon

Why this product suits this shopper: With 20 globes and mains power, this string light is designed to provide lasting decoration in a living room or bedroom.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product details clearly distinguish between indoor and outdoor use: its IP20 rating and “for indoor use” label mean it shouldn’t be used outdoors without protection.

Key benefits and features

20 warm white LEDs, a total length of 435 cm and a stated two-year statutory warranty.

Ideal for: Specific uses and frequent users
M.TK 10m Light Tube LED 100 LEDs Light

M.TK 10m Light Tube LED 100 LEDs Light

Why this product suits this shopper: Its long light strip is suited to gardens, patios, party lighting and larger indoor spaces where lighting needs may vary.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The product description lists a total length of 10.3 m, 100 LEDs, 10 cm spacing and an IP44 rating. It also specifies eight modes and a memory function.

Key benefits and features

100 warm white LEDs at 3000 K, eight lighting functions and IP44 splash protection; three AA batteries are required and not included.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and fully comply with the safety regulations in force in the EU.

LED string lights FAQs

How long do LED string lights last?

Their actual lifespan depends on the LED technology, build quality, how long they’re used, the batteries and the environment. Outdoor models may be put under greater strain by damp, frost and direct sunlight. Store string lights in a dry place. If you have a battery-powered model, it’s a good idea to remove the batteries if you won’t be using it for a long time.

How much does it cost to run LED string lights?

For mains-powered models, the stated power rating is the key figure. A 0.9 W string light uses 9 Wh over ten hours of operation. With battery-powered models, costs come from regularly replacing the AA batteries they need. A timer and memory function can help you plan daily use, but they don’t tell you how long the batteries will actually last.

Which LED string lights are suitable for a balcony or garden?

For a balcony or garden, the product description should specify that the lights are suitable for outdoor use and give an appropriate IP rating, such as IP44. Make sure the connections are sheltered and the battery box isn’t left in a puddle. IP20 string lights are designed for dry indoor spaces and shouldn’t be used outdoors without protection.