Joybuy Insights

Buying multicolour LED string lights: a guide for gardens, balconies and living spaces

Multicolour LED string lights can add decorative lighting to a balcony, garden, living space or celebration. However, many products look similar at first glance. Differences often only become clear when you install them, connect the power supply or use them outdoors.

Three common buying pitfalls are worth keeping in mind:

  • “Waterproof” doesn’t automatically mean suitable for submersion: An IP rating such as IP44 or IP65 describes protection against certain levels of water and solid objects. It doesn’t mean you can simply put the product in water.
  • The stated length isn’t always the illuminated length: Check whether the connection cable and the gaps between LEDs are included in the total length.
  • Lots of lighting modes won’t make up for the wrong power supply: Solar string lights need enough direct sunlight. For battery or USB models, make sure batteries or a power socket are available where you plan to use them.

Technical details to check before you buy

1. Protection rating for your intended use

If you’re looking for outdoor LED string lights, the IP rating is an important point of comparison. The first digit describes protection against solid objects, and the second describes protection against water.

  • IP44: Protected against solid objects larger than 1 mm and splashes of water from all directions. Suitable for sheltered outdoor areas such as a balcony or covered patio, provided the manufacturer approves this use.
  • IP65: Dust-tight and protected against water jets. Rain and splashes are suitable within the intended conditions, but the product isn’t designed for permanent use underwater.

When choosing waterproof string lights, also check whether the protection rating applies to the entire light, just the LED wire or only certain components. Solar panels, battery compartments, power adapters and plugs may have different requirements.

2. Length, number of LEDs and spacing

A 12-metre string light with 120 LEDs distributes light differently from a 4-metre model with 50 LEDs. A shorter option is often enough for railings, small balconies or table decorations. Trees, hedges and longer façades need more reach.

Check the:

  • Total length and connection cable
  • Number of LEDs per metre
  • Spacing between LEDs
  • Number of string lights included
  • Options for attaching the lights without causing damage

Copper wire string lights can usually be wrapped flexibly around branches, railings or decorations. However, avoid sharply bending the thin wire or leaving it under constant tension.

3. Power source and lighting controls

Solar-powered lights are suitable for places without a power socket. How long they stay lit depends on sunlight, the time of year, the panel’s position and the weather. The VIVREAL models mentioned here are specified as needing 6 to 8 hours of charging time, with a lighting duration of 8 to 14 hours depending on the weather.

Battery-powered models don’t depend on sunlight and can be positioned flexibly for camping, parties or indoor use. Check whether batteries are included. For example, the M.TK model requires 3 AA batteries, which aren’t included.

An LED strip light 5 m with a 24-volt power adapter is designed for indoor use. The RGB model mentioned here has an IP20 rating, so it shouldn’t be used in the rain, on an unprotected balcony or in damp areas. A remote control, dimming function and choice of colours offer flexible options for living rooms, bedrooms, shelves or party decorations.

Our picks for different needs

Best for: budget-conscious first-time buyers
M.TK MOVETECK 4m Fairy Lights Outdoor Battery 50LEDs

M.TK MOVETECK 4m Fairy Lights Outdoor Battery 50LEDs Waterproof Fairy Lights Multicolor

Why this product suits this profile: This battery-powered model is ideal for short decorative runs, balconies, camping, parties and rooms without a power socket. Remember to buy the 3 AA batteries separately.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The total length of 4.3 metres and the 50 LEDs are clearly stated. The IP44 rating indicates protection against splashes, not suitability for use underwater.

Key benefit & strengths

50 LEDs, 8 functions with memory mode and flexible battery placement.

Best for: buyers with high expectations of quality
VIVREAL 2PCS Solar Copper Wire String Lights 12M 120 LEDs

VIVREAL 2PCS Solar Copper Wire String Lights – 12M, 120 LEDs Multi-Color

Why this product suits this profile: Two long solar string lights, each 12 metres long with 120 LEDs, are ideal for larger gardens, patios, trees or festive outdoor spaces.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The IP65 rating and solar charging time are specified. The panel needs direct sunlight; neither the panel nor the LEDs should be submerged.

Key benefit & strengths

8 lighting modes with memory function, copper wire and automatic on/off.

Best for: specific uses & frequent use
LED Strip Light Light Chain 3-in-1 RGB 5m

LED Strip Light, Light Chain, 3-in-1 RGB, 5m

Why this product suits this profile: This 5-metre RGB strip light is designed for indoor spaces such as living rooms, kitchens and bedrooms, or for the area behind a television.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The IP20 rating makes it clear that this product is for indoor use. This helps prevent it being used outdoors without protection.

Key benefit & strengths

150 LEDs, RGB colour selection, dimming function, infrared remote control and 24-volt power adapter.

Looking for more options?

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

Practical tips for installation and use

Before buying, plan how you’ll attach the lights and where you’ll place the power source. The solar panel should face south, or another sunny direction, with as little shade as possible. Clean it occasionally with a soft, dry cloth.

For Christmas lights and decorative string lights, don’t trap cables under doors, carpets or heavy objects. Keep battery compartments closed. If you have children at home, make sure cables are routed safely, as thin wires can pose a tangle risk.

FAQs about multicolour LED string lights

How long do multicolour LED string lights last?

Their actual lifespan depends on the LED components, rechargeable or standard batteries, weather conditions, storage and physical wear. For outdoor models, storing them somewhere dry over winter and regularly checking the cables and casings can help extend their useful life. It’s not possible to give a reliable lifespan without specific information from the manufacturer.

How much electricity do LED string lights use?

Consumption depends on the number of LEDs, power rating, how long the lights are on and the model. Solar and battery-powered models don’t draw power directly from your home’s mains supply. The 5-metre LED strip light mentioned here is rated at around 12 to 18 watts. To calculate running costs, multiply the power in kilowatts by the number of hours used each day and your electricity tariff.

Can I leave solar string lights outside in winter?

That depends on the design and the manufacturer’s instructions. Cold weather, shorter days, snow and less direct sunlight can reduce charging performance. Don’t let the solar panel become covered by water or snow. If you won’t be using the lights for a long time, it’s a good idea to switch them off and store them somewhere dry, following the manufacturer’s instructions.