Looking to brighten up your outdoor spaces with the perfect lighting? With so many options, finding the right mix of durability, functionality, and style can feel daunting. Don’t worry—we’ve done the work for you.

In this guide, we’ve tested top outdoor lights to help transform your garden, patio, or other areas into a beautifully lit retreat. From energy-efficient string lights to vibrant RGBIC options and budget-friendly picks, we’ve reviewed them all.

After 50+ hours of testing, we’ve narrowed down our top choices based on durability, ease of use, and overall appeal. Our Editor’s Pick, the Torkase Mains Powered Outdoor String Lights, impressed us with their weatherproof design, warm glow, and simple setup.

For a more colourful and tech-savvy option, the Govee Smart RGBIC Permanent Outdoor Lights are our Runner Up, offering endless colours and smart control. On a budget? The Nextyu Mains Powered Festoon Outdoor Lights deliver customisation and durability at a great price.

We’ve also flagged one to avoid—the JianRui Solar Wall Lights, which fell short on performance despite their stylish design.

Whatever your needs, our guide has something for everyone. Read on to find the best outdoor lights for your space and create the perfect ambience!

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What to Look for in Outdoor Lights

When shopping for outdoor lights, certain features should be considered a given for a quality product. These are the essential elements that ensure you’re getting a reliable and functional lighting solution for your space. Here's what to keep in mind:

Features That Should Be a Given:

1. Weatherproofing: Look for IP65 or higher waterproof ratings for resistance to rain, snow, and dust.
2. Energy Efficiency: LED light bulbs are standard, offering lower energy consumption and a long lifespan.
3. Durability: Shatterproof bulbs or reinforced casing to withstand the elements.
4. Ease of Installation: Pre-attached hooks, clear instructions, and simple mounting options.
5. Reliable Power Source: Options for mains-powered, battery-operated, or solar-powered landscape lights with consistent performance.

Features That Should Be the Norm:

1. Brightness Control: Adjustable settings to match different moods or occasions.
2. Versatile Design: Suitable for both outdoor and indoor use, ensuring multipurpose functionality.
3. Connectivity Options: Ability to link multiple sets for larger coverage areas.
4. Warranty: A minimum one-year warranty is ideal for peace of mind.

Design and Build Quality

The design and construction of outdoor lights play a significant role in their performance, lifespan, and aesthetic appeal. Here's what to evaluate:

1. Material Choice: Opt for materials like rustproof metals, durable plastics, or anti-UV-treated coatings to resist weathering and fading.
2. Compact & Functional Design: Sleek designs that are easy to handle and don’t detract from your outdoor décor.
3. Build Integrity: Strong connectors, properly sealed components, and reinforced wiring to prevent wear and tear.
4. Light Output: Consistent, flicker-free illumination that doesn’t degrade over time.
5. Safety Compliance: Products that meet safety certifications like CE, RoHS, or UL standards.

Advanced Features to Consider

Premium outdoor lights often include additional features that enhance usability, customisation, and enjoyment. While not essential, these extras can make your purchase feel more worthwhile:

1. Smart Controls: App or voice control (Alexa/Google Assistant) for adjusting brightness, colours, or schedules remotely.
2. Colour Customisation: RGB or RGBIC options with millions of colour choices to suit any mood or occasion.
3. Timers and Schedules: Built-in timers to automate lighting based on your routine.
4. Music Sync: Dynamic lighting effects that respond to music, ideal for parties or gatherings.
5. Permanent Mounting: Options for semi-permanent installation to avoid seasonal reinstallation.
6. Expandable Sets: Compatibility for adding multiple sets to cover larger areas.
7. Battery Backup or Solar Charging: For continuous operation even during power outages.
8. Eco-Friendly Design: Recyclable materials or energy-saving features for environmentally conscious buyers.

By prioritising these features across essentials, design and build, and extras, you can ensure you’re investing in outdoor lights that meet your needs and enhance your space.

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Editors Pick

Torkase Mains Powered Outdoor String Lights

We recently tried the Torkase Mains Powered Outdoor String Lights, and they deliver on both durability and functionality. Here's a closer look at what makes them stand out.

Key Features

• Durable & Weatherproof: These lights are crafted with shatterproof plastic bulbs and have an IP54 waterproof rating, making them resilient against outdoor elements.
• Energy-Efficient: With 58 LED G40 bulbs (0.5W each), the lights provide a warm 2200K glow while reducing energy costs by over 90%. The impressive 35,000-hour lifespan ensures they last for years.
• Adjustable Ambiance: Fully dimmable, these lights let you customise the brightness to suit any occasion (dimmer not included).
• Effortless Installation: Each bulb comes with a hook for easy setup. You can secure them with wire ties or hang them creatively for unique arrangements.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for gardens, patios, gazebos, or even indoor spaces like bedrooms or cafes.

We tested the Torkase Mains Powered Outdoor String Lights and found them to be a fantastic addition to any space. Their sturdy, weatherproof design (with shatterproof bulbs and an IP54 rating) ensures reliability in all weather conditions.

The warm, inviting glow they provide creates a cosy ambience, making them ideal for gardens, patios, or even indoor spaces.

The energy-saving LED bulbs are highly efficient, reducing electricity costs significantly and offering an impressive lifespan. Installation is simple and convenient, with each bulb featuring a hook for easy hanging and creative arrangements.

There are a couple of minor considerations, such as tightening some bulbs on arrival and limited compatibility for connecting multiple sets, but these don’t diminish the overall experience.

For anyone seeking durable, energy-efficient lighting that elevates the atmosphere of any setting, the Torkase string lights are an excellent choice. They combine functionality, style, and ease of use beautifully.

Runner Up

Govee Smart RGBIC Permanent Outdoor Lights

We recently tried the Govee Smart RGBIC Permanent Outdoor Lights, and they live up to their reputation for quality and functionality. Here’s what stood out:

Key Features

• Vivid Lighting Options: Choose from 72 scene modes and 16 million colours to suit any occasion. Perfect for holiday displays or year-round ambience.
• Durable Design: With IP67 waterproofing and anti-UV materials, these lights handle tough weather conditions, from -4°F to 140°F.
• Smart Control: The Govee app allows you to control individual lights, set timers, and switch between modes. Voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant is a nice bonus.
• Simple Installation: The included VHB glue and clips make setup straightforward, though proper preparation (e.g., cleaning surfaces) is essential for a strong hold.

We tested the Govee Smart RGBIC Permanent Outdoor Lights, and they’ve proven to be a fantastic lighting solution. These lights are incredibly versatile—perfect for Christmas, Halloween, parties, or creating ambience throughout the year.

The permanent installation is a game-changer, saving time and effort season after season. The Govee app makes customisation easy, offering millions of colours and pre-set modes to match any occasion.

Voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant adds convenience, and the weatherproof design ensures they can withstand various conditions reliably.

One thing to consider is the price. While it’s an investment, the durability, functionality, and stunning effects make it worth every penny.

Overall, the Govee Smart RGBIC lights deliver a durable, customisable, and visually stunning lighting experience. They combine practicality and beauty, making them a brilliant year-round option.

Budget Pick

Nextyu Mains Powered with APP & Remote Festoon Outdoor Lights

We recently tested the Nextyu Mains Powered Festoon Outdoor Lights and found them to be a versatile and reliable choice for outdoor lighting. Here's what stood out:

Key Features

• Customisable Lighting: With 60,000 colours via app control, these lights are ideal for tailoring your space. Adjust brightness from 1%-100% and choose from 20+ rhythm and scene modes.
• Music Sync Feature: The integrated microphone syncs lights with music, creating dynamic effects for parties or quiet evenings.
• Durability: IP68 waterproof and shatterproof, these lights withstand tough weather year-round. The bulbs have double-layer protection for extra resilience.
• Convenience: The app and remote make operation easy. Schedule lighting times or adjust settings directly from your phone.
• Versatile Application: Perfect for gardens, patios, and events like weddings. Connect two sets for expanded coverage.

We tested the Nextyu Mains Powered Festoon Outdoor Lights and found them to be a fantastic option for vibrant, customisable lighting. The app and remote are user-friendly, and installation is simple with the included hanging hooks.

The lights are impressively durable, with waterproof and shatterproof bulbs that withstand harsh weather. The wide range of colours and brightness settings make them perfect for parties or quiet evenings.

The music sync feature was a highlight, adding a fun, dynamic element to gatherings by matching the lights to music.

While the app setup process could be more straightforward, and replacing the remote might take extra effort, these are minor considerations compared to the overall functionality and performance of the lights.

Overall, the Nextyu lights deliver on durability, versatility, and stunning effects, making them a reliable choice for enhancing any space.

Outdoor Wall Mounted Pick

HLFVLITE 2 X Black Aluminium Outside Wall Light

The HLFVLITE outdoor wall light is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a balance of style, functionality, and durability. Here's what stands out:

Key Features

• Sleek and Modern Design: The rectangular shape and matte black finish, paired with tempered glass lenses, deliver a contemporary look. It casts light beautifully above and below, enhancing any space.
• Indoor and Outdoor Use: Made of die-cast aluminium with a powder-coated finish, the light is resistant to heat, impacts, and chemicals. The IP44 waterproof rating ensures reliable performance in various weather conditions.
• Easy Installation: Installation is straightforward. The mounting plate, wiring, and fixture setup can be completed in just three steps, saving time and effort.
• Energy-Efficient Compatibility: Designed for GU10 LED or halogen bulbs (not included), it supports up to 35W per bulb.

We tested the HLFVLITE Black Aluminium Outside Wall Light and were impressed by its sleek, modern design. The matte black finish and tempered glass lenses create a stunning up-and-down lighting effect, perfect for contemporary or industrial homes.

The lights are highly durable and perform well even in harsh weather (thanks to their IP44 waterproof rating and die-cast aluminium body). Installation was simple, though the connector box could be slightly larger. Once installed, the quality and aesthetic impact were worth it.

Versatility is another strength. These lights complement various home styles and offer great value for money. While they lack motion detection, this static feature didn’t bother us. Installing the bulbs was slightly tricky, but the end result—beautiful and efficient lighting—made it worthwhile.

In short, the HLFVLITE wall light delivers style, durability, and affordability, making it a great choice for enhancing your space with ease.

Solar Sensored Pick

KIBTOY Solar Sensor Outdoor Light

If you're looking for an efficient and user-friendly outdoor lighting solution, the KIBTOY Solar Sensor Outdoor Light offers a mix of functionality and reliability. Here's what you can expect:

Key Features

• Adjustable Lighting: Three adjustable heads offer a 270° lighting angle, covering wide areas. Bright LED beads are ideal for pathways and patios.
• Motion Detection: A PIR motion sensor detects movement up to 40 feet within a 120° range, activating the lights for 25–30 seconds only when needed (a great security light).
• Solar Powered: The built-in rechargeable battery charges in 6–8 hours, providing up to 8 hours of wire-free illumination.
• Durable Design: With an IP65 waterproof rating, it handles rain, snow, and extreme weather, ensuring reliable performance.

We found the KIBTOY Solar Sensor Light to be a reliable and versatile outdoor lighting option. Its brightness and simple installation stood out, with adjustable heads making it easy to customise the lighting angle for pathways and patios. The included screws and wall plugs made setup quick and effortless.

The motion detection worked effectively, activating the light when movement was detected and staying on for 25–30 seconds. The solar-powered battery provided hours of light after a full charge, even on cloudy days, offering a practical, wire-free solution.

While rare, we noticed that some solar panels might underperform, but the warranty provides peace of mind. Despite this, the light’s durable, weather-resistant design ensures it performs well in rain or snow.

Overall, the KIBTOY Solar Sensor Light delivers excellent brightness, efficiency, and durability, making it a strong choice for enhancing outdoor security and convenience.

One To Avoid

JianRui Solar Wall Lights Outdoor Dusk-to-Dawn Motion

We tested the JianRui Solar Wall Lights Outdoor Dusk-to-Dawn Motion, and while it has a few positive features, we found it ultimately disappointing.

The lamp does have some strong points. It is visually appealing and provides a pleasant ambient light. The casing is of decent quality and includes seals to ensure it is watertight, which is a nice touch for outdoor use.

Installation was straightforward, even for those with limited DIY experience, thanks to its simple wiring. However, the cons outweigh the pros. The illumination is minimal, making it more decorative than functional—hardly ideal for those who need a proper light source.

Additionally, the lamp is smaller than we expected, and given its performance, it feels overpriced. What frustrated us the most was trying to get the lamp to work. The manual's suggestion to “remove and replace the battery” was confusing, considering this is not a battery-powered product.

While the lamp looks stylish and might suit someone looking for purely decorative lighting, its lack of practicality and confusing instructions make it a poor choice overall. For the price, there are far better and more functional options available.

How We Evaluated and Chose the Best Outdoor Lights on the Market

Testing outdoor lights goes beyond simply turning them on and off. We examined every critical aspect to ensure reliability, functionality, and value. Here’s how we did it:

Brightness and Lumens Output

We measured the brightness in various outdoor settings, verifying that the claimed lumen levels matched actual output. This included testing for consistent illumination and ensuring the lights provided sufficient brightness for pathways, patios, and security applications.

Different lighting conditions, such as dusk, complete darkness, and cloudy weather, were also considered to assess performance.

Weatherproofing

Each light was exposed to rain, dust, and temperature fluctuations to confirm its ability to handle diverse weather conditions. Products with IP ratings were tested rigorously to ensure they lived up to claims of waterproof and dustproof protection.

This testing simulated real-world exposure to harsh environments over time.

Energy Efficiency

We monitored power usage across both solar and mains-powered options to confirm energy efficiency. Solar lights were tested for battery charge retention and performance under varying sunlight conditions, from bright sunshine to overcast skies.

Mains-powered lights were assessed for their impact on electricity consumption, ensuring they met modern energy-saving standards.

Ease of Installation

Installation was evaluated for simplicity, considering whether the lights included hooks, mounts, or required additional tools. We also examined the clarity of the instructions, time taken for setup, and adaptability to different mounting surfaces.

Products with user-friendly designs and straightforward setups scored higher in this category.

Durability

Materials were tested for resilience against wear, shattering, and fading due to prolonged exposure to UV rays and moisture. We checked the integrity of connectors, wiring, and bulb construction to ensure each product could withstand daily use.

This phase also included testing for resistance to accidental drops or impacts.

Functionality

Advanced features like dimming, motion sensors, colour customisation, smart light bulbs and smart controls were tested for reliability. Lights with app connectivity or voice control were reviewed for ease of integration and responsiveness. Features that consistently worked without glitches earned higher ratings.

Aesthetics

We assessed how well the lights improved outdoor spaces by blending with existing décor while providing functional illumination. The light temperature, from warm white to cooler tones, was considered for its ability to create ambience.

Overall visual appeal and adaptability to various styles were prioritised.

Longevity

Simulating long-term use, we ran the lights continuously or in intervals over several weeks, observing their performance and stability. For solar lights, we tracked battery degradation to identify products that maintained their efficiency.

The durability of materials and components was also checked for wear and tear.

Value for Money

Finally, we compared the price of each product with its features, performance, and durability to determine its overall value. Products that balanced affordability with exceptional quality stood out.

We also considered how well the lights catered to specific needs, such as security, decoration, or multi-functional use whilst at a decent price.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Solar or LED Outdoor Lights Better?

When comparing solar and LED outdoor lights, it depends on your needs. Solar lights are eco-friendly and cost-effective, requiring no wiring but relying on sunlight for power.

LED lights, on the other hand, are more reliable and brighter, with lower energy consumption and longer lifespans, making them ideal for consistent lighting.

What Colour Light Is Best for Outdoors?

The best colour light for outdoors depends on the intended use. Warm white (2700K-3000K) creates a cosy and inviting atmosphere for patios and gardens. Cool white (4000K-5000K) is better for security or task lighting, as it offers a brighter, more focused illumination for visibility.

What Is the Recommended Brightness for Outdoor Lights?

The recommended brightness for exterior lighting depends on their purpose. For ambient lighting, 100-300 lumens is sufficient. Security and task lighting may require higher brightness, ranging from 700 to 1300 lumens, to ensure adequate visibility and safety in the area.

How Many Lumens for Outdoor Light?

The number of lumens needed for outdoor lighting varies by location. Pathway lights typically need 100-200 lumens, while flood lights for security may require 700-1300 lumens. Deck and patio lights often fall in the 300-600 lumens range, balancing brightness with ambience.

How Do I Choose an Outdoor Light Fixture?

To choose an outdoor light fixture, consider the purpose, style, and materials. Look for weatherproof, durable materials like aluminium or plastic with high IP ratings. Ensure the design complements your space and matches the brightness, power source (solar or wired), and ease of installation to your needs.

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Final Word

We hope our guide to the best outdoor lights has helped you find the perfect option for your space. With so many great choices, it can be hard to pick, but we’ve highlighted the top contenders.

Our Editor’s Pick, the Torkase Mains Powered Outdoor String Lights, shines for its weatherproof build, warm glow, and simple setup.

For vibrant customisation, the Govee Smart RGBIC Permanent Outdoor Lights offer stunning effects and smart controls, making them a strong Runner Up. Budget-conscious shoppers will love the Nextyu Mains Powered Festoon Outdoor Lights, which provide durability and colourful options at a great price.

However, not all products impressed us. The JianRui Solar Wall Lights look stylish but fall short on illumination and practicality, making them one to avoid.

What did you think of our guide? Are you ready to brighten your space, or do you still have questions? Drop a comment below—we’d love to hear from you!