How to choose outdoor solar string lights: what to consider for your garden, patio or balcony

Outdoor solar string lights don’t need a mains connection, so you can place them wherever you like in your garden, on your patio or balcony. However, models vary considerably in their IP rating, charging conditions, run time and controls. If you focus only on the number of LEDs or an attractive product image, you could miss some important details.

Three common buying pitfalls are worth watching out for:

• Misreading the IP rating: IP65 means protection against dust and water jets. The solar panel and battery compartment must not be submerged.
• Assuming the quoted run time applies in all conditions: Claims of 8 to 14 hours usually assume plenty of direct sunlight for charging. Shade, short winter days and dirty solar panels all reduce the energy available.
• Confusing the length with the area actually lit: The lead cable, spacing between LEDs and shape of the lights all affect how much of an area is illuminated.

Key things to consider when buying solar string lights for your garden

1. Check the IP rating and where you’ll use them

For waterproof outdoor string lights, the IP rating is an important factor. The first digit describes protection against solid objects, while the second indicates protection against water.

• IP44: Protection against solid objects larger than 1 millimetre and splashing water. Suitable for sheltered areas, such as under an eaves.
• IP65: Dust-tight and protected against water jets from different directions. This is a suitable rating for many exposed outdoor areas.
• Important: The stated IP rating may differ for individual product components. With solar lights, the solar panel and battery compartment must not be submerged.

According to the product information, the IP65 string lights from Aigostar Solar LED String Lights G50 are designed for gardens, patios and festive decorations. The model has 160 LEDs, a 10-metre string and a stated run time of up to 12 hours.

2. Consider the solar panel, charging time and battery

Solar-powered LED string lights work reliably only when the solar panel gets enough light during the day. Direct sunlight is usually better than a spot that’s in constant shade. Keep the panel free from leaves and dust, and avoid placing it behind glass where possible.

Check the following:

• stated charging time in direct sunlight,
• battery type and capacity,
• whether the lights switch on automatically at dusk,
• achievable run time depending on the weather and time of year,
• the position of the panel and the cable length between it and the lights.

A claim such as ‘up to 12 hours’ isn’t guaranteed every night. It describes the maximum run time under the conditions specified by the manufacturer.

3. Choose the right light colour, LED spacing and modes

Warm white solar string lights at around 2,700 Kelvin give off a soft, yellow-toned glow and are often a good choice for seating areas or decorative lighting. Multicolour solar string lights are better suited to seasonal decorations, garden parties and festive occasions.

It’s also worth considering the spacing between the LEDs and the shape of the lights:

• Globe-shaped lights create distinct points of light.
• Copper wire string lights can be wrapped around branches, railings or plants.
• Multiple lighting modes let you switch between effects, although energy use varies depending on the setting.
• For an even outline, the length of the string and the spacing between LEDs matter more than the total number of LEDs.

Our picks for different uses

Ideal for: Budget-conscious first-time buyers

Aigostar Solar Pendant Light Bubble Stick Warm White 2700K IP44 Stainless Steel Decorative Solar Light Garden

Why this product suits this profile: This compact solar light is ideal for adding a subtle accent to flowerbeds, balconies or sheltered outdoor spots. Its warm white light at 2,700 Kelvin makes for understated decoration.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The IP44 rating is clearly stated, so you won’t mistake this light for one that’s suitable for every weather condition. Its stated operating temperature range is -10 °C to 50 °C.

Main benefits and strengths

Warm white light, a built-in 40 mAh Ni-MH battery and a stated run time of 8 to 12 hours.

Ideal for: Buyers with high quality standards

VIVREAL Solar Bubble Ball String Lights – 7M, 50 LEDs Warm White

Why this product suits this profile: These warm white globe lights are designed for gardens, patios, balconies and festive decorations. The product information lists eight lighting modes and automatic activation at dusk.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The information distinguishes the string lights’ IP65 rating from the guidance for the solar panel and battery compartment. That makes it clear that not every component can be submerged.

Main benefits and strengths

7 metres long, 50 LEDs, IP65 rating and a stated run time of 8 to 14 hours, depending on charging conditions.

Ideal for: Specialist uses and frequent use

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

Why this product suits this profile: Two flexible copper wire strings, each 12 metres long, are ideal for larger areas, railings, trees, parties and seasonal decorations.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The information gives the length, number of LEDs and IP65 rating for each string, as well as the required charging time of 6 to 8 hours. This makes it easier to work out how much area they’ll cover before you buy.

Main benefits and strengths

Two strings with 120 LEDs each, eight lighting modes, a memory function and a stated run time of 8 to 14 hours.

Frequently asked questions about outdoor solar string lights

How should you position outdoor solar string lights?

Place the solar panel in as sunny a spot as possible, away from shade cast by house walls, trees or parasols. Before using the lights for the first time, switch them to ‘On’ if the instructions require it. Clean the panel regularly with a soft, dry cloth.

How long do solar string lights last?

Run time depends on the battery capacity, charge level, lighting mode and weather. Product claims of 8 to 14 hours are estimates based on suitable charging conditions. After several overcast days, the lights may stay on for considerably less time.

Do solar string lights use electricity?

Solar string lights don’t need to be connected to the mains while in use. The LEDs run on a built-in battery, which is charged by the solar panel during the day. Their energy use therefore depends mainly on the sunlight available, rather than on a continuous mains electricity supply.