10Best.Guide

Outdoor Lights for Patio

Top Picks

Last Updated: April, 2023
Pros
  • Lightweight and easy to install
  • Water and shatterproof
  • Magical warm glow
  • Sturdy and don't break easily
  • Delightful warm glow
Cons
  • Some lights died quickly
  • Not as bright as expected
Bottom Line
These lights are a great value for their magical warm glow, sturdiness, and ease of installation. However, some customers have experienced issues with the lights dying quickly and they are not as bright as expected. Additionally, they are not dimmable without purchasing a separate dimmer and the size may be smaller than expected.
Pros
  • Easy to set up and use
  • Can be controlled by phone, remote control, and Alexa
  • Customer support is responsive
  • Well-constructed and provide shadow-free light
  • Sturdy and well-made
Cons
  • Dummy plug/cover doesn't stay put
  • Bulbs are fragile and shatter easily
Bottom Line
These string lights are easy to use and provide a nice glow, but the bulbs are fragile and may not last long. The cord may also be flimsy and the bulbs are farther apart than expected. However, they are well-constructed and provide shadow-free light, making them a good option for outdoor use.
Pros
  • Sturdy construction
  • Heavy-duty wiring
  • Good quality
  • Detailed diagram on the box
  • Brightness
Cons
  • Flickering
  • Bulbs not warm white
Bottom Line
These outdoor lights are sturdy, heavy-duty, and provide good quality lighting. However, they may flicker, the bulbs may not be warm white, and they may be expensive. Despite these issues, they are a good choice for lighting up patios and outdoor areas.
Pros
  • Bright and clear lights
  • Good value for the money
  • Lightweight and easy to transport
  • Plastic bulbs are durable
  • Provides a nice glow for evening meals
Cons
  • Time-consuming to screw in bulbs
  • Durability is questionable due to squirrels chewing through wires
Bottom Line
These outdoor string lights are a good value for the money and provide a nice glow for evening meals. However, the durability is questionable due to squirrels chewing through wires and the wire/cord could be thicker.
Pros
  • Sturdy and unbreakable bulbs
  • Easy to install and hang
  • Good for outdoor use
  • Durable and long-lasting
  • Good for craft fairs and displays
Cons
  • Circuitry issues with the bulbs
  • Not bright enough for some buyers
Bottom Line
These string lights are a great option for outdoor use, craft fairs, and lighting up a large area. They are durable and easy to install, but may have some issues with circuitry and brightness. Overall, a good value for the price.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Outdoor Lights for Patio - Everything You Need to Know

Overview

Outdoor lights can transform your patio into a stunning and inviting space for entertaining, relaxing, or simply enjoying the fresh air. But with so many different types, styles, and features available, choosing the right outdoor lights for your patio can be a daunting task. That's why we've put together this comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

In this guide, we'll cover the following sections:

- Types of outdoor lights for patio

- Key considerations when choosing outdoor lights

- Features to look for in outdoor lights

- Prices of outdoor lights

- Tips for selecting and installing outdoor lights

- FAQs about outdoor lights for patio

Types

1. String Lights - String lights are a popular choice for patios, as they create a warm, inviting ambiance. They come in a range of styles, including Edison bulbs, globe lights, and fairy lights. They can be hung from trees, pergolas, or other structures, or strung along the perimeter of your patio.

2. Solar Lights - Solar lights are a great option for eco-conscious homeowners, as they rely on the power of the sun to charge their batteries. They come in a variety of styles, including path lights, spotlights, and string lights, and can be placed anywhere on your patio without the need for wiring.

3. LED Lights - LED lights are energy-efficient and long-lasting, making them a cost-effective choice for outdoor lighting. They come in a range of styles, including floodlights, spotlights, and strip lights, and can be used to highlight specific features of your patio.

4. Hanging Lights - Hanging lights can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your patio. They come in a variety of styles, including lanterns, chandeliers, and pendant lights, and can be hung from pergolas, trees, or other structures.

5. Deck Lights - Deck lights are a practical and stylish way to illuminate your patio. They can be installed directly into your deck or stairs, and come in a range of styles, including recessed lights, post lights, and rail lights.

6. Landscape Lighting - Landscape lighting can add depth and dimension to your patio, highlighting trees, shrubs, and other features. They come in a range of styles, including spotlights, floodlights, and path lights, and can be customized to suit your specific needs.

Key Considerations

1. Purpose - Consider the primary purpose of your outdoor lights. Do you want to create a warm, inviting ambiance, or do you need functional lighting for safety and security?

2. Location - Think about where you want to place your outdoor lights. Do you want to highlight specific features of your patio, or do you need general illumination for the entire space?

3. Power Source - Consider the power source for your outdoor lights. Do you want to use solar lights, which are eco-friendly and easy to install, or do you prefer wired lights, which may offer more options and control?

4. Weather Resistance - Make sure your outdoor lights are weather-resistant, especially if you live in an area with harsh weather conditions. Look for lights with an IP rating of at least 44, which means they are protected from water and dust.

Features

1. Dimmable - Dimmable lights allow you to adjust the brightness of your outdoor lighting, creating the perfect ambiance for any occasion.

2. Remote-Controlled - Remote-controlled lights offer convenient control from anywhere on your patio, without the need for additional wiring or switches.

3. Motion Sensor - Motion sensor lights can provide added security and safety, turning on automatically when someone approaches your patio.

4. Energy Efficiency - Look for energy-efficient outdoor lights, such as LED lights, which can save you money on your energy bills over time.

Prices

The price of outdoor lights for patio can vary widely depending on the type, style, and features. Here's a rough price range for each type:

- String Lights: $20-$100

- Solar Lights: $10-$50

- LED Lights: $20-$200

- Hanging Lights: $50-$500

- Deck Lights: $20-$200

- Landscape Lighting: $50-$500

Tips

1. Consider the size and layout of your patio when selecting outdoor lights.

2. Use a mix of different types of outdoor lights to create a layered and dynamic lighting scheme.

3. Keep in mind the color temperature of your outdoor lights, as warmer tones can create a more inviting and cozy atmosphere.

4. Make sure your outdoor lights are properly installed and secured to prevent damage or accidents.

FAQs

Q: Can outdoor lights be left outside all year round?

A: Yes, most outdoor lights are designed to withstand the elements and can be left outside all year round.

Q: How do I install outdoor lights on my patio?

A: Installation methods can vary depending on the type of outdoor lights you choose. Some lights may require wiring and professional installation, while others can simply be hung or placed in the desired location.

Q: How do I maintain my outdoor lights?

A: Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prolong the life of your outdoor lights. Make sure to clean them regularly and replace any burned-out bulbs or damaged components.

Q: Can outdoor lights be used for security purposes?

A: Yes, outdoor lights with motion sensors or other security features can help deter intruders and provide added safety and security for your patio.

Q: Are LED lights better for outdoor use?

A: LED lights are a popular choice for outdoor use, as they are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and durable.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right outdoor lights for your patio can have a huge impact on the look and feel of your outdoor space. By considering the types, key considerations, features, prices, tips, and FAQs outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect outdoor lights for your needs.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Lights are very bright.
  • Lightweight and durable.
  • Can attach multiple strings together.
  • Great for event lighting.
  • Attractive bulbs.
Cons
  • Not dimmable.
  • Brighter white light than expected.
Bottom Line
These outdoor string lights are a great option for those looking for bright and durable lighting for events or outdoor spaces. However, buyers should be aware that they are not dimmable and may have durability concerns.
Pros
  • Well-made and durable.
  • Easy to install and hang up.
  • App-controlled with many features.
  • Bright and provide a nice ambiance.
  • Great for outdoor use and camping.
Cons
  • Some bulbs may stop working or fall off.
  • May not be able to sustain a long span.
Bottom Line
These string lights are a great addition to any outdoor space and provide a nice ambiance. They are well-made, easy to install, and app-controlled with many features. However, some units may have issues with non-working bulbs or falling off, and they may not be completely waterproof.
Pros
  • Nice soft warm light
  • Good quality and durable
  • Affordable price
  • Dual lights inside each bulb
  • Comes with replacement bulbs
Cons
  • Bulbs are too far apart
  • Some bulbs stop working over time
Bottom Line
These lights are a good quality and durable option for outdoor lighting at an affordable price. However, some customers have experienced issues with bulbs stopping working over time and replacements can be hard to get. The remote is not programmable and the bulbs are too far apart for some customers' liking.
Pros
  • Perfect for large trees
  • Gorgeous copper fairy lights
  • True orange color
  • Dainty but bright
  • Long cord
Cons
  • Dimming issues
  • Uneven brightness
Bottom Line
These fairy string lights are perfect for large trees and adding sparkle to anything else. They are dainty but bright, with a long cord. However, they have some dimming issues, uneven brightness, and are not good for twinkle mode.
Pros
  • Creates a beautiful ambiance
  • Affordable
  • Good medium lighting for a relaxed feel
  • Great for mood lighting
  • Provides the right amount of ambiance for any outdoor activity
Cons
  • Some bulbs were already out and needed replacing
  • Several bulbs went out after a short time
Bottom Line
These outdoor string lights are affordable and create a beautiful ambiance for any outdoor activity. However, they may not be durable in windy conditions and some bulbs may need replacing.
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