Best Overall
Brightown G40 LED Outdoor String Light Set
Best Color-Changing
Enbrighten Color-Changing Vintage LED Cafe Lights
Best Permanent
Enbrighten Eternity Eave Permanent Outdoor Lights
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Outdoor cosmic string lights can brighten a backyard terrace space and make warm nights reposeful and festal . We researched more than 35 sets of lights and tested 14 Seth in our own yards , and while many are excellent , a few put up out from the pack . Brightown ’s G40 extend Outdoor String Light Settook the top spot base on its quartz - exculpated shatterproof medulla oblongata , clip - on hangers , and attractive price point . This is a unspoilt beginner set for anyone with basic outdoor lighting need .
However , our try lineup offer so much more than the basic principle . There are mess of greatbackyard ignite ideasin this roundup . find permanent string Inner Light ( you translate that aright ) , color - changing hues , Wi - Fi connectivity , and even cafe lights with script - scratch bronze cages . We also consult Rafi Friedman , president ofCoastal Luxury Outdoorsin Jacksonville , Florida , who partake in some expert wind on how to get the most out of your outdoor lighting . Read on to instruct what to look for when shopping for outdoorlighting , and find out how the conform to models earned a spot in our lineup of the good outside chain light .
Our Top Picks
Our list admit a range of options to illuminate most outdoor blank , from extremely conditions - resistant lights and vintage - style Edison bulbs to programmable sets of string lights . One is certain to suit your outdoor inflammation needs .
Our Ratings : Light Quality5/5 ; Durability3/5 ; Appearance5/5 ; Value5/5
Using these out-of-door string lights from Brightown , we make a warm and inviting ambiance in our backyard . The 100 - foot - long strand with rounded Edison glass bulbs creates an graceful throwback aesthetic .
This loose - string strand is waterproof , energy saving , and dimmer compatible . These light made even the darkest minute of the night seem lively . The string light includes 50 LED bulb and two replacement bulbs . With a 2700 kelvins ( K ) lovesome ashen color , these quixotic string lights coiffure the backyard aglow .
We like that the attached trough time made them leisurely to cling on an overhead clothesline . With the power grid blueprint we make , we were able-bodied to lounge beneath the outside lights long after wickedness and take our magazines . We did not cast off these glass bulb as we did the shatterproof bulb in our tests .
We plugged the lights into a dimmer cord and adjust the strength to a soft glow . These Brightown bowed stringed instrument lights are well suited to parties , creating out-of-door ambiance , or even add a touchstone of protection .
Get the Brightown out-of-door string light atAmazonorBrightown .
Our valuation : Light Quality4/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Appearance4/5 ; Value5/5
Enbrighten ’s string lights allow the substance abuser to customize the bulb ’ tripping colour — enabling up to 120 likely combination — to tot a pop of vividness to any out-of-door space . For those who desire to choose specific colors to set a mood , the Enbrighten visible light do not let down .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
These are impressive strong acrylic paint LED incandescent lamp . Because they ’re placard as “ shatterproof , ” we screen that title by dropping them from straits height to the concrete patio below . Not only did none of the acrylic bulbs break up or chip , but we could n’t even find a scuff Saint Mark .
Since we hang them on a handle patio ceiling , they were somewhat protected by a rainstorm that sham most of the other set we tested . These medulla still get dripping squiffy , but it did n’t seem to feign their carrying into action at all .
Each impact - resistant acrylic electric light that produce up these outside terrace lights use just 1 watt of power and produces a lovesome glow . The include remote appropriate us to switch between single solid colors , two - color combinations , and various predetermined color modes forChristmasand Saint Patrick ’s Day .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
We were capable to set a 2- or 4 - hour timer , take from 10 dimmable light levels , and select fade and strobe feature .
Get the Enbrighten color - change outdoor cosmic string lights atAmazonorThe Home Depot .
Our Ratings : Light Quality4.8/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Appearance5/5 ; Value4.8/5
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
If you have n’t heard of lasting string lights , you ’re in for a treat . These lights are design to be installed on a house ’s eaves ( the bottom of a roof ’s overhang ) . hang these lights adopt longer than other sets we test , but it was deserving it . We install a 50 - foot fibril of Eternity lights on the eaves of our hatch front porch in about 1 hour . Each button - determine LED light snaps into a base that must be do it into the eave . It was n’t hard — just time - consuming .
After installing the Enbrighten lights , we downloaded the app and synced the visible light to our wireless electronic web . That ’s when the playfulness begin . We institute that we could pick out from nearly infinite vividness combinations . We were able to change each LED lighting to a specific color , blue-ribbon presets like July 4th ( red , livid , and grim Light ) , and choose color melodic theme like Mardi Gras or Fall . We were able to programme the light to issue forth on at a predetermined time . We also care that , during the solar day , the twinkle were barely noticeable thanks to their low - visibility design .
If you ’re look for a classy way to add porch lights or outdoor patio lights without dangling cord that disorder from the look , ensure out Enbrighten ’s timeless existence lights . You wo n’t be let down .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
Get the Enbrighten Eternity outdoor string lights atAmazon , Costco(100 pes ) , orEnbrighten .
Best Solar
Brightech Ambience Pro Solar Outdoor String Lights
Our paygrade : Light Quality5/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Appearance4/5 ; Value5/5
These waterproof , solar - powered string lights from Brightech became one of our favorites . Not only can they be hang anywhere because they do n’t require an electrical way out , but we also come up them glowing brightly the next morning . The 27 - foot strand on these solar twine lights features 12 shatterproof charge plate LED bulbs . Each G40 bulb emits a warm 3000 K light .
These solar LED string lights brave a rainstorm without any problems and then lit up the next even . They also survived our drop trial run without any cracks . While some solar - power lights emit only soft miniature , the Brightech light were just as hopeful as any other string of igniter we tested — quite an accomplishment for solar - powered lights . After a gay day , they breathe sufficient light for us to sit beneath and learn our magazines long after the sun move down .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
These solar - powered string lights are advertised as requiring 6 hours of direct sunshine to power the bulb for 6 time of day of light , but during our exam , they emitted sparkle for at least 10 hour on a single solar guardianship .
Get the Brightech solar outside string lights atAmazon .
Best for Large Spaces
Govee Outdoor String Lights 2
Our Ratings : Light Quality4.8/5 ; Durability4.8/5 ; Appearance5/5 ; Value4.8/5
We tested three 48 - foot connectable strand of Govee String Lights 2 , and we loved them . We strung 144 foot of lights from Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree to tree in a wooded spot behind our house . The gist was nothing curt of magical .
Like other smart string light , these Govee lights are customizable via an app that we found very intuitive . Not only were we capable to choose from a host of preset musical mode , but we could also pick out our own colors to make a exceptional temper . Then , we discovered these little decorative lights could be synced to music , and we had our own minuscule discotheque . If you ’re depend for especial light gist for an outdoor saltation , the Govee string lights wo n’t disappoint .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe
It did n’t rain while we were test this exercise set of light , but we sprayed them down with the garden hose and they come through just ok . We did not spray the controller box because it is n’t as waterproofed . The only hitch we encountered — and it was probably the fracture of our router — was that we needed to place the controller loge within 15 feet of the outside of our domicile to use the app . Any farther than that and we were out of luck . Keep that in mind when choosing where to turn up this wanton string .
Get the Govee out-of-door cosmic string lights atAmazonorGovee .
Best Flickering Flame
Brightech Ambience Pro Flaming, Flickering LED Bulbs
Our Ratings : Light Quality4/5 ; Durability4/5 ; Appearance4.5/5 ; Value4.3/5
If you screw the ambiance of a campfire but do n’t have a fire pit or fires are forbid where you inhabit , see out Brightech ’s flickering drawing string luminousness that reckon a whole lot like picayune flames trip the light fantastic toe inside the bulbs .
We found the essence very realistic , and , skilful of all , we did n’t have to run an extension corduroy to set them up at our makeshift campsite because they ’re solar powered ! measure out just 27 foot long and with 12 bulbs , this is a relatively short drawstring of lights , but it ’s just right for provide an enticing incandescence to the quick environment . We also felt these hang string light would add together a nice hint to a tailgating party — just remember to leave the solar panel out in the Lord’s Day the 24-hour interval before using them .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe
On the days we try these lights , there was a mix of sun and clouds . We ground they would last out lit for up to 6 hours after a sunny daytime and about 4 hour after a cloudy twenty-four hour period . However , the back of the solar dialog box has an on / off switch , and we were able to turn it off if we wanted to maintain the assault and battery boot for later .
We sprayed down these lights ( include the solar control panel ) with body of water and drop them on the concrete . This did n’t faze them — they came on faithfully at dusk every evening . This is a keen little set of flicker lights that soothe and tranquil while providing some illumination .
Get the Brightech flame outside string lights atAmazon .
Photo: Amazon
Best Cafe-Style
Enbrighten Vintage LED Cafe Lights
Our valuation : Light Quality4.5/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Appearance5/5 ; Value4.8/5
Enbrighten has done it again . Its 48 - foot Vintage LED coffee shop lighter emit a warm glow , and their old - fashioned Edison - way bulbs create a nostalgic ambience perfect for outdoor dining . But we did n’t just prove the drawing string of light ; we also tested Enbrighten ’s oil - fray bronze shades , which lend the twinkle a romantic confidential information of Tuscany .
With or without the bronze shade , this is an attractive lot of string lights for patio or porch use . It comes with 24 strong acrylic fiber bulbs that are splinterproof and water - tolerant . The bronze shades were well-to-do to install — we just unscrewed a bulb , slipped an upper shade over the socket , screwed the lightbulb back in , and then snapped the bronze John Cage into shoes . The cages held fast , and none popped off when we flatten the light onto the concrete .
Photo: Amazon
The lights number with a grueling - obligation rubber electric cord , and each bulb hangs from a 3 - inch pendant socket , offering a stylish look . The bronze shades deal separately in sets of six , but if you ’re looking for that small extra cutaneous senses of charm , consider tote up them for a ruined flavour .
Get the Enbrighten vintage outdoor string illumine atAmazon . Bronze shades available separately atAmazon .
ALSO TESTED
The following outdoor string lights are top performers tested in old year . While our current card has been update , it would n’t be right not to cite these models that fared well in earlier tests and just narrowly missed the cut this time around . They keep on to be extremely range by users .
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Outdoor String Lights
When selecting outdoor string lighting for our tests , we speedily discovered 12 of highly shop production . We see sword epithet to an extent — after all , manufacturing business like Govee are highly respect in the kindling diligence . We also looked at medulla type . According to theU.S. Department of Energy , opting for light-emitting diode ignition instead of incandescent can save the ordinary family more than $ 200 annually . We did n’t try result light exclusively but center powerfully on that type .
To begin our examination , we hung the string light and leave them in position for several daytime . After shadow , we seek to read or perform other activity — such as grilling — with just the illuminance from the lights . We used a examination rubric , mark each product based on miniature , light quality , and overall ambience . We tested every feature , include syncing thesmart outdoor lightswe examine with a wireless mesh and controlling the light via an app .
If the string light were marketed as shatterproof , we dropped them on a concrete terrace from drumhead summit to see if they would crack up . For the single advertised as waterproof , we left them out in a rainstorm or spray them with water . Then , we tested them again after they dried . We noted the cord ’s duration , the issue of bulb socket , and how well-situated they were to hang .
Photo: Amazon
What to Consider When Choosing Outdoor String Lights
A simple strand of strand lights can transmute a sheer backyard into an invite outdoor space . compare with many other types of exterior house lights , train lights are among the most affordable and easiest to install . If you desire to hang string lights outdoors , consider low-cal character , size and frame , brightness , and color . A weather - insubordinate pattern , a prolonged cord , and a remote or app control can make the lights safe and light to expend .
Type
Most outside string lights feature LED , incandescent , solar , or assault and battery - run bulbs . Each type vary in durability , Energy Department efficiency , and lifespan . When shopping for outdoor drawing string lights , deal whichtype of lightingis most suitable for the infinite .
Weather Resistance
Since outside twine light source are exposed to the elements , it ’s of import to pick out a set that can resist rainy conditions and heavy gusts of twist . It ’s inconvenient to take the string lights down every time inclement conditions is count on .
First , check the mathematical product verbal description to determine if the lights are mean for outdoor use . Using indoor inflammation outside make a potential fire jeopardy . secondly , ensure the merchandise is water - resistant ( or rainproof , as even billet under a porch or gazebo ceiling can grow dampish in tough weather ) . Weather - resistant spark can handle direct photograph to water supply and feature watertight seals to protect their interior components from accumulating moisture and causing safety issues .
Style and Bulb Shape
String Christ Within bulbs are available in a variety of dash and shapes , which can give the strands a unique aesthetic .
allot to Friedman , “ You ’ll also want to take care for shatterproof bulbs , ideally LED , since they ’re cool and more effective . ”
Bulb Size
When choose a bulb sizing , deliberate the available outdoor space , relief of induction , and desired facial expression .
Small bulbs are a in effect pick for small outdoor spaces or garden lighting ; they wo n’t overpower a space or other outdoor decorations . These bulbs are generally more subtle , providing patrician background lighting . They provide less light and are commonly chosen for cosmetic use .
Large bulb are more dramatic and bid a bolder look . Their larger size can provide more unmediated illumination . broadly shiny , they ’re well suitable to larger space that need more lighting . declamatory cosmetic bulbs , such as globe bulbs and Edison bulbs , can make a style statement .
Photo: Amazon
Keep in mind that bulb size can impress installation . twine twinkle with small bulb are generally lightweight and easier to guide . They may be easier to set up than string visible radiation with larger , grueling , and bulkier bulbs .
Most globe outdoor strand spark bulbs get in one of three incandescent lamp sizes :
Most Edison - flair string Inner Light bulbs are an S14 bulb size of it , which is a average - size , oval - form bulb that ’s 32 millimeter ( just over 1.25 inches ) in diameter .
Photo: Amazon
Brightness and Color Temperature
When it comes to the appearing of outdoor string lights , luminance and color temperature are two of the most important factors to regard .
Lumens assess the amount of light output from a incandescent lamp — the more lumens , the lustrous the bulb . When deciding on bulb brightness , take into account the desired lighting effect . String illumination bulb can run from 5 to more than 100 lm per medulla . Users often choose string light for their glowy show rather than their brightness , so lower lm often do just fine to specify the mood . Lumens are different from wattage , as wattage touchstone how much power a incandescent lamp consumes and not necessarily how bright a light source seem .
light color temperature is measure using the Kelvin temperature scale leaf . This scale measures how affectionate or cool the light appear . modest numbers racket on the Kelvin scale appear warm , and higher number look cooler .
Photo: Amazon
Most home firing falls between 2000 K and 6000K. Bulbs around 2700 K have a cozy , warm white color with a yellow hue , while light bulb over 5000 K offering stark , crisp lighting with a blue chromaticity . Warm ignition makes a blank space look more cozy and bid , while coolheaded light can often seem harsh , especially at dark . For this intellect , warm bulbs are generally favour for ambient outdoor lighting .
Wire Length
Outdoor train lighting typically derive in lengths of 10 , 25 , 35 , 50 , and 100 foot . When choosing the idealistic telegram length , view the size of the outdoor blank space and the kindling layout .
terrace bowed stringed instrument light can outline garden borders , wrapping around bannister and tree diagram , or suspend over induct spaces . The best style to determine the necessary wire length is to apply a bit of string to measure where the spark will go . If the lights require corded power , check that to admit enough length to reach the wall plug , or keep an extension cord handy .
To line one side of an mediocre balcony or low porch , a 10 - metrical foot string of outdoor terrace lightness may do the john . A belittled 8 - pes - long by 6 - foot - wide terrace space typically requires 25 to 50 animal foot of string lighting . A medium 12 - fundament - solid outdoor place may call for 50 to 100 foot of string light , depending on the want layout . For more spacious area or to illuminate a large issue , more than 100 feet of twine lighting is unremarkably necessary .
Photo: Amazon
In terms of wire specialty , Friedman recommends commercial - grade stringer with dense - gage wire . “ This will hold tension much well , and the extra insulation will provide prophylactic and durability . ” He adds that “ these stringer are much heavier than your average consumer chain lights , so ensure you mount them securely . ”
Additional Features
For those who want to upgrade from basic cosmic string lights , consider a product with extra features like colouring material - changing medulla , dimming options , and outback ascendence or app operation . As we come across in our test , drug user are able to make whole dissimilar moods by select different bulb colors .
FAQs
String lights can instantly transmute a typical pace or patio into a ardent and ask round space , but choose the right stage set of Light is a must for creating the desire standard pressure . Still considering the best out-of-door string light for your outer space ? Read on for resolution to some ofttimes asked questions about select and installing out-of-door train lights .
White light is the most effective firing colour since it is closest to natural light . Warm white luminance have a cozy , inviting yellow-bellied tinge , make them a democratic pick for outdoor kindling . colored bulbs are often choose for the ambience they make rather than their lighting power . These light add a decorative flair and can be a fun addition for dissimilar seasons and holiday .
TheLemontec Commercial - Grade Outdoor String Lightsoffer fifteen 11 - watt incandescent bulbs and are one of the best options in the lineup for those seeking a brighter set of outdoor string lights . Plus , additional sets can be relate for even more light .
Yes , some weather - resistant and weatherproof string light can be left alfresco . Be sure to check their specification to ensure the Inner Light can treat changing atmospheric condition and temperature conditions year - round .
The wanton way to hang lights is to use be fastness or to wrap them around column and railing fence a terrace . If necessary , produce hanging alternative by installing metallic element claw , heavy - duty viscid hook , or nails where needed .
No , outdoor string lights typically habituate very picayune electricity — especially light-emitting diode models , which are more energy efficient than incandescent .
Meet the Tester
Glenda Taylor is a production quizzer and writer specialise in the construction , remodeling , and tangible estate industries . She quiz a broad range of great power tools as well as other home plate betterment , house , and lawn - and - garden products .
extra inquiry provided by Jamie Birdwell - Branson and Jasmine Harding .
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