There are hundreds of options available for solar deck lights, making it challenging to find the best ones for your specific needs.
To help you narrow your search, I’ve tested up to 50 different solar deck lights and carefully evaluated their performance, durability, brightness, and overall value.
After thorough testing, I have identified the best solar deck lights that excel in various categories.
In this article, I’ll cover a range of options, from budget-friendly choices to high-end models, ensuring there’s something for every preference and budget.
The Best Solar Deck Lights Selection
Editor’s Choice: Aootek Solar Deck Lights
Features
- Material: Plastic
- Charge Time: 7-9 hours
- Waterproofing Rate: IP65
The Aootek Solar Deck Light boasts 120 LEDs that produce a warm and inviting light, striking a perfect balance between potency and comfort.
Each LED has a built-in reflector that captures and redirects the light in a broad and even manner with a 270-degree wide angle.
This wide coverage ensures that the light reaches every corner of your deck, preventing harsh spots of concentrated brightness that cause glare.
I’ve been using these lights for about 5 years now, and it makes every nook from the staircase to the patio seating area well-lit, ensuring that my kids can play and run around freely without the risk of tripping or stumbling.
This model also has 3 lighting modes which are:
- The security light mode lights up when motion is detected
- The Permanent On all Night Mode offers a consistent glow
- The Smart Brightness Control Mode adjusts the brightness according to movement
I prefer the Permanent On all Night Mode to keep my deck bathed in a soothing and constant glow throughout the evening.
However, if you want to use it as a security light, you can turn on the security light mode which can detect movement within 26 feet and with a wide 120-degree coverage angle.
The solar panel’s 20.5% conversion rate is enough to fully charge the lights in 4-5 hours for security light mode and 7-9 hours for permanent on all-night mode.
It takes me around 8 and a half hours of direct sunlight to fully charge the lights permanently on all-night mode.
The waterproofing rate of IP65 makes the light handle water projected from a nozzle without any damage or water seeping inside.
My lights had already gone through a crazy rainstorm last Christmas, and they stood up to the challenge without any issues.
My only issue with this model is the plastic construction.
While they may handle normal wear and tear, they might not be as resistant to accidental drops or impacts.
Overall, the Aootek Solar Deck Lights are reliable, with the bright 120 LEDs, versatile lighting modes, and robust performance.
What We Like
- 120 LED lights with 120-degree wide coverage
- 3 versatile lighting modes
- High solar panel conversion rate
- Excellent IP65 waterproofing
What We Don’t Like
- The plastic body feels a bit fragile
Runner up: SOLPEX Solar Deck Lights
Features
- Material: Plastic
- Run Time: Up to 10 hours
- Charge Time: 4-5 hours
- Waterproofing Rate: IP44
SOLPEX Solar Deck Lights come with 16 LEDs that produce a warm, inviting glow with a color temperature of 3,000K.
I use these lights for the stairs leading to my deck, and they’re just enough to create a subtly illuminated pathway without being too intrusive.
The solar panel is also efficient enough to charge the lights in only 4-5 hours, even on days with moderate sunlight.
I’ve tracked the lights’ charging performance for a week to test this feature.
On partly cloudy days, the lights took about 6 hours to charge fully and continued to operate for approximately 8 hours.
However, on sunny days when the sun was shining brightly, I noticed an even faster charging time of around 4 hours, and they lasted for up to 10 hours.
The installation process is also worth mentioning. I had to attach the lights using the provided screws and ensure they were firmly secured.
One issue I have with this model is the brightness level.
While the warm glow is aesthetically pleasing, the lights could benefit from having more lumens to provide brighter illumination.
Despite this minor issue, the SOLPEX Solar Deck Lights still offer numerous valuable features that make them reliable for illuminating deck stairs.
What We Like
- Efficient solar panel charging (4-5 hours)
- Long runtime for up to 10 hours
- Easy installation with included screws
What We Don’t Like
- Lower brightness level
- The plastic body is a bit fragile
- Low waterproof rating (IP44)
Best Bang for the Buck: Lightique Solar Moroccan Lights
Features
- Material: Copper wire & silver metal
- Run Time: Up to 8 hours
- Charge Time: 6-8 hours
- Waterproofing Rate: IP65
Lightique Solar Moroccan Lights are small, shimmering golden balls that cast a lovely starry lighting effect, creating a cozy and festive mood for your home.
It also has 8 different lighting modes, so you can choose the perfect lighting style for any occasion. These lighting modes are:
- Waves
- Combination
- Sequential
- Gradual
- Chasing flash
- Slow fade
- Twinkle flash
- Steady on
I hang these lights on the railing of my deck to add a touch of elegance and charm to my outdoor space.
I usually prefer using the slow fade mode that creates a gentle and subtle transition between light and dark, resembling the soft fading of stars.
These lights also have a built-in memory function, which remembers the last lighting mode you selected, eliminating the need to reset it each time you turn the lights on.
The 10-foot length of the lights provides versatility in installation options.
Whether you want to drape them along the entire length of your deck railing or create a focal point in a specific area, the generous size allows for flexibility in design.
This long wire made it easy to weave the lights through railings, wrap around posts, or suspend across beams with the provided cup hooks.
These solar string lights have an IP65 waterproof rating to withstand rain, moisture, and even light water splashes.
They have already endured the scorching heat of July and the cold of January without any issues.
One problem with these lights is the small battery capacity of only 600mAh.
While the lights can operate for up to 8 hours in ideal conditions, the battery may not store enough energy to operate for a long time or on cloudy days.
However, Lightique Solar Moroccan Lights still provide a charming and decorative lighting effect for your deck at a fraction of the cost of other solar lighting options.
What We Like
- 8 versatile lighting modes
- Built-in memory function for convenient use
- Easy installation and flexible 10-foot length
- IP65 waterproof rating for durability
What We Don’t Like
- Small 600mAh battery capacity
Best Fence Light: OTHWAY Solar Fence Light
Features
- Material: Plastic
- Run Time: Up to 9 hours
- Charge Time: 6-8 hours
- Waterproofing Rate: IP65
- Warranty: 1-year
The OTHWAY Solar Fence Lights have 6 LED bulbs that emit a charming glow, providing just enough brightness without being too intense or disturbing to neighbors.
Their compact size of only 2.52 x 3.5 x 2.05 inches makes it easy to space them evenly along the top of the deck fence without appearing bulky or out of place.
I use these lights for my deck fence to add a serene, moonlit setting ideal for late-night discussions, alfresco dining, or simply unwinding after a long day.
I was setting up a romantic dinner for my wife just last week. I cooked her favorite meal, set the table on the deck, and the OTHWAY Solar Fence Lights created the perfect, intimate ambiance.
The dim glow from the LEDs mimicked the soft glow of candlelight without any fire risk or the need to replace candles.
With a 2V 0.26W solar panel integrated into each unit, the lights can last up to 9 hours after about 6-8 hours of direct sunlight.
On gloomy days, I noticed that these lights can still fully charge in about 9 hours, providing up to 7 hours of soft light, which is still good for the battery capacity.
Installing these lights is also a breeze – I had to remove the plastic cover, use the included screws to securely mount the lights along the fence, and then replace the cover.
The IP65 waterproofing rate ensures the lights can withstand various weather conditions, including rain and moisture.
I’ve already tested these lights during heavy rain showers, and they have proven to be resilient and reliable.
The 1-year warranty also provides added assurance and peace of mind.
If I encounter any issues or defects with the lights within the warranty period, I can easily reach out to the manufacturer for assistance and resolution.
The only downside of these lights is their relatively low brightness.
While the soft glow they emit is aesthetically pleasing and creates a serene atmosphere, it may not be sufficient to serve as a primary source of bright light.
Overall, I still highly recommend the OTHWAY Solar Fence Lights for anyone seeking to enhance their deck or outdoor space with elegance and tranquility.
What We Like
- Compact size for easy spacing
- Efficient solar panel with up to 9 hours of light
- Easy installation with removable cover
- IP65 waterproofing for durability
- 1-year warranty for peace of mind
What We Don’t Like
- Relatively low brightness
Best Path Light: SIEDiNLAR Solar Step Lights
Features
- Material: Metal
- Brightness: 15 lumens
- Run Time: Up to 12 hours
- Charge Time: 6-8 hours
- Waterproofing Rate: IP68
- Warranty: 1-year
The SIEDiNLAR Solar Step Lights boast 15 lumens with a color temperature of 6,000K that gives off a tranquil, crystalline glow.
I installed these lights on the path to my deck about 6 months back.
My buddy, Mike, took a tumble one evening when we were grilling out back.
It was nothing serious, but the thought of my friends or family getting hurt didn’t sit right with me.
Especially because the path is a bit uneven, and in the dark, it’s just an accident waiting to happen.
So, I got these solar lights, and the cool white light they throw is just enough to make the path visible without being blinding.
The solar panel is also so efficient that it can charge the light in about 6-8 hours of direct sunlight, providing up to 12 hours of cool bright light.
I remember a series of gloomy, overcast days last winter – we hardly saw the sun for a week, but those solar lights held up, illuminating the path every night.
That was a relief since my in-laws were visiting, and my father-in-law uses a cane to walk, but knowing the path was well-lit gave me great peace of mind.
Of course, they don’t operate as efficiently on those darker days, but even then, they cast a soft glow – enough to guide our steps.
I like that these lights can resist up to 20 tons of pressure.
It seems like overkill for a deck light, right? But let me tell you, during a particularly stormy night last spring, my gas grill got knocked over and rolled right onto one of the lights.
I thought the light would be crushed, but it survived without a scratch.
The IP68 waterproof rating means that these lights are completely resistant to dust ingress and can withstand long periods of immersion in water.
Last summer, we had a sudden flash flood. Rain was pouring down like crazy, and the whole yard was waterlogged.
But these lights kept shining even when the water levels rose above them for a while.
Even the next day, when everything else in the yard was still drying out or damaged, these little troopers lit the path like another day.
My only problem with this model is the quality of the included screws.
While installing the lights, I found they easily stripped or didn’t provide a strong enough hold, especially when installing them on harder surfaces or in areas with strong wind gusts.
Despite this minor issue, the SIEDiNLAR Solar Step Lights are an excellent choice for illuminating deck paths for their reliable performance, durability, and beautiful illumination.
What We Like
- 15 lumens with a color temperature of 6,000K
- Long-lasting battery life of up to 12 hours
- Ability to withstand up to 20 tons of pressure
- IP68 waterproofing for durability
- 1-year warranty for peace of mind
What We Don’t Like
- The included screws feel cheap
Best String Light: Brightown Solar String Light
Features
- Material: Plastic
- Run Time: Up to 20 hours
- Charge Time: 12 hours
- Waterproofing Rate: IP45
The Brightown Solar String Lights feature a vintage filament design, giving off a warm, ambient glow that can transform your deck into a classic, nostalgic atmosphere.
I weave these lights across the roof of my deck whenever I want to set up a cozy outdoor dinner party or a casual gathering with friends.
The twinkling lights against the dark sky create the perfect ambiance for an evening of laughter, conversation, and shared memories.
I also love how it’s easy to adjust the brightness level (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) of these lights, thanks to their built-in dimmer.
This feature allows me to create the perfect atmosphere to match the mood of the occasion, whether I want a dimly lit romantic setting or a bright space for a lively celebration.
It’s also useful to conserve energy or extend the battery life.
In the evenings, when you don’t need full brightness, you can dim the lights to 25% or 50%, giving you extra hours of illumination.
The timer allows me to set the lights to automatically turn off after 6 hours, 8 hours, or even after midnight.
I appreciate this convenience, particularly when I’m hosting and have so much on my plate or those nights when I want to relax and forget about everything else.
The battery is large enough to offer up to 20 hours of continuous light after about 12 hours of direct sunlight.
The 180-degree adjustable solar panel allows me to adjust the solar panel’s angle according to the sun’s position throughout the day.
Whether it’s a clear summer day or a partially cloudy winter afternoon, I can make the most out of the available sunlight to charge the battery effectively.
I tracked the lights’ performance on different brightness levels and on different days.
On the brightest setting, the lights stayed on for around 10 hours after a full charge, while on the dimmest setting, the lights lasted the full 12 hours, which is still good.
On cloudy days, the performance dipped a bit, but the lights still lasted through the night for about 8 hours at a reduced brightness setting.
Despite my overall satisfaction with these lights, there are 2 areas where they could improve.
Firstly, these lights come with an IP45 rating, which means they are protected against solid objects and water spray from any direction but might not fare as well in heavier rain or snow.
I live in a region that gets quite a bit of rainfall, and during particularly harsh weather, I have noticed that the lights can occasionally flicker or dim.
Secondly, the lights are primarily plastic, including the bulb covers and the solar panel housing.
While this construction is lightweight and resistant to rust, it might lead to the plastic becoming brittle or discolored, affecting the performance of the lights.
I’ve had mine for only a few months now, and while they’re holding up well, I’ll keep an eye on it.
However, despite these two concerns, I still consider these lights a great investment for their beauty, functionality, and efficient performance.
What We Like
- Vintage filament design
- Multiple brightness levels
- 180-degree adjustable solar panel
- Long battery life of up to 20 hours after about 12 hours of sunlight
- Easy to install and arrange as per the required aesthetic
What We Don’t Like
- The plastic body is flimsy
- Low waterproof rating (IP45)
Best Lantern: TomCare Flickering Flame Solar Light
Features
- Material: Metal & plastic
- Brightness: 25 lumens
- Run Time: Up to 10 hours
- Charge Time: 8 hours
- Waterproofing Rate: IP65
- Warranty: 1-year
The TomCare Flickering Flame Solar Light emits a brightness of 25 lumens casting a warm, inviting glow that beautifully mimics the allure of dancing flames.
This flickering flame effect, coupled with a warm yellow glow, creates a cozy ambiance and saves the hassle of dealing with actual candles.
I don’t need to worry about safety issues associated with open flames, nor do I have to contend with the mess of melted wax.
The vintage design also adds to its appeal. Its elegant bronze finish exudes an aesthetic sense of classic elegance.
Last Halloween, I hung these lights from the railings and casually placed a few on the tabletops to create a spooky setup.
The warm, flickering glow created the perfect backdrop for the kids’ ghost stories and the adults’ conversation, all while we enjoyed the cool fall evening.
As the night wore on, the allure of the subtle, dancing flames caught our guests’ eyes and sparked the curiosity of trick-or-treaters who passed by our house.
The solar panel boasts a conversion rate of up to 20%, fully charging the rechargeable battery in about 8 hours to keep operating for up to 10 hours.
But I must admit, when I used them in the fall, the days were a bit shorter, and the sunlight was not as intense.
Under these conditions, they took approximately 9 hours to charge, fully lit for around 6 hours.
However, it was still enough to keep the Halloween spirit alive, with the lights gently dimming out just as the last trick-or-treater waved us goodbye.
With an IP65 waterproofing rating, this model can withstand anything from gentle rain showers to heavy downpours.
I was initially worried about leaving them out during the fall season when we, in California, might experience occasional rainfall, but they handled the weather well.
And let me tell you, buddy; it’s truly a comforting feeling to sit on my deck on a chilly fall evening, wrapped in a cozy blanket, with these lights flickering like little stars in the night.
The only setback is the steep price. Investing in these solar lights might seem costly initially, especially if you’re on a budget.
But I believe in the saying, “You get what you pay for.” The superior quality, impressive durability, and captivating flame effect make the TomCare Flickering Flame Solar Lights worth every penny.
What We Like
- Realistic dancing flame effect
- 25 lumens
- Up to 10-hour run time
- Waterproofing rate of IP65
- 1-year warranty
What We Don’t Like
- A somewhat steep price compared to other models
Best Rope Light: Brightown Solar Rope Light
Features
- Material: Plastic
- Run Time: Up to 10 hours
- Charge Time: 4-6 hours
- Waterproofing Rate: IP65
The Brightown Solar Rope Light has 200 LED bulbs strategically placed along 72 feet of high-quality copper wire.
This design gives you plenty of flexibility to wrap them around deck railings, drape them over bushes, or coil them around tree trunks.
Two months ago, we celebrated my little sister’s engagement party at my home, and I decided to use these lights to add a festive ambiance.
I carefully wrapped them around the deck railings and draped them over our favorite maple tree next to them.
As the sun went down and the lights’ soft glow created a dreamy and intimate atmosphere, which added a memorable charm to her special day.
The rope light also features 8 distinct lighting modes:
- Combination
- Waves
- Sequential
- Gradual
- Chasing flash
- Slow fade
- Twinkle flash
- Steady on
These modes provide various choices to set the desired mood for any occasion.
For instance, during my sister’s engagement party, we set the lights to ‘slow fade,’ and the gentle transition from bright to dim created a dynamic yet soothing ambiance.
When the evening turned into a more festive celebration, we switched to ‘twinkle flash’ mode to add a playful touch that could match the upbeat music and laughter.
This model also comes with an adjustable solar panel and an in-built 1,200mAh battery that charges fully under sunlight in just 4 to 6 hours and can function for up to 10 hours.
Despite the extensive use and switching between different lighting modes, the lights maintained a consistent brightness and didn’t falter for about 8 hours.
This model provides the rope light with an IP65 waterproof rating, where the copper wire is wrapped with an ultra-thin waterproof membrane.
This thoughtful detail ensures that the lights withstand various weather conditions, from gentle drizzles to heavy downpours.
We had a slight drizzle during the party, but the lights kept glowing, undeterred.
However, the thin profile of the rope, while making it flexible and easy to maneuver, could also be a point of concern for some.
We found that we had to ensure they weren’t stretched too tight or tangled to avoid potential damage.
Despite this minor hiccup, the Brightown Solar Rope Light still stands out for its easy adaptability, range of lighting modes, and efficient solar panel system.
What We Like
- 200 super bright LEDs
- 72 feet of flexible, slender copper wire
- Up to 10-hour run time
- Waterproofing rate of IP65
What We Don’t Like
- The thin profile of the rope makes it a bit fragile
Best Wall Light: Greluna Solar Wall Light
Features
- Material: Plastic
- Brightness: 10 lumens
- Run Time: Up to 8 hours
- Charge Time: 6 hours
The Greluna Solar Wall Light is another superb option for lighting your deck space with its 10 lumens, offering a balance of subtle illumination that isn’t too harsh or too dim.
With 2 distinct modes – Warm White and Color Changing – this light adds versatility to your deck setup.
With its 3,000K color temperature, the Warm White mode gives off a cozy and inviting light that’s perfect for everyday use.
On the other hand, the Color Changing mode can bring a festive feel to your deck, making it especially fit for special occasions.
I remember how I installed these lights last year on the edges of my deck for my son’s birthday party.
We had switched to the Color Changing mode, and the dynamic play of colors gave the party an extra layer of joy and excitement, which the kids loved.
This light’s battery can also provide up to 8 hours after about 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Although this working time might not sound very impressive, it was more than sufficient for my needs.
For instance, during my son’s birthday party, the lights were on from late afternoon till past midnight, and they never faltered.
However, I was not too fond of the plastic construction of these lights. While the design is elegant, and the lights are weather-resistant, the plastic didn’t feel as robust as I would’ve liked.
Anyways, the Greluna Solar Wall Light is an excellent addition to any deck setup. Its blend of aesthetic appeal, easy installation, weather resistance, and functional versatility makes it a worthwhile investment.
What We Like
- Two lighting modes: Warm White and Color Changing
- Up to 8-hour run time
- Easy, wire-free installation
- Weather-resistant design
What We Don’t Like
- Brightness might not be enough for some
- Plastic construction feels less durable
Best Post Light: VOLISUN Solar Post Light
Features
- Material: Plastic
- Brightness: 16 lumens
- Run Time: Up to 10 hours
- Charge Time: 5-6 hours
- Waterproofing Rate: IP44
- Warranty: 2-year
The VOLISUN Solar Post Light has a classic Edison bulb design that adds a touch of vintage charm to your deck, creating a cozy ambiance.
It also features 2 lighting modes, allowing you to set the right atmosphere for any occasion, whether a late-night dinner party or a quiet evening in your garden.
A few months ago, I installed 4 units of these lights on my patio’s wooden posts.
It was during my parent’s anniversary celebration that these lights truly shone.
The warm Edison bulb design added an element of warmth to the event.
For the latter part of the night, I switched to the brighter setting to give our late-night conversations an extra dose of vivacity and spark.
I love the efficient solar panel, which only requires 5-6 hours of sunlight to fully charge, after which it can provide up to 10 hours of illumination.
Although it might not perform as well during cloudy or rainy days, it still manages to gather enough power to keep the lights on for a significant part of the evening.
For instance, I recorded their performance during a particularly overcast week last fall.
Even with only 4 hours of indirect sunlight daily, the lights could function for about 6 hours every night, which is still good.
VOLISUN backs these post lights with a 2-year warranty, covering any defects or issues within that period.
This commitment gives me peace of mind, knowing that the company stands behind its product and is ready to address potential issues.
When it came to the installation process, I was a hurdle. The product claimed compatibility with 4×4 vinyl posts, which matched my deck’s setup.
However, I had to add some padding to secure them onto these posts. It wasn’t a major issue, but it did add to the installation time.
The plastic construction and the IP44 waterproof rating provide decent resistance to weather elements, but they are not entirely waterproof.
This implies that they may not hold up well under heavy rain or snow, making them less ideal for living in areas with such weather conditions.
I also wish this model had higher brightness so I could rely on it to read or engage in detailed tasks comfortably during the evenings.
Despite these issues, the VOLISUN Solar Post Light is a worthwhile addition to my outdoor space, providing a touch of vintage charm and reliable illumination.
What We Like
- Classic Edison bulb design
- Two lighting modes
- Up to 10 hours of operation after 5-6 hours of charging
- 2-year warranty
What We Don’t Like
- Brightness might not be enough for some
- Installation can be challenging on certain types of posts
- Low waterproof rating (IP44)
What Are the Benefits of Using Solar Deck Lights?
Solar deck lights have become increasingly popular due to their ease of use, environmental friendliness, and efficiency. Here are several benefits of using solar deck lights:
- Eco-Friendly: Solar lights harness energy from the sun, a clean, renewable energy source. By using solar deck lights, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to environmental sustainability.
- Cost-Effective: Once installed, solar deck lights generate power and require no electricity, saving you money on energy bills over time. They also have few moving parts, meaning there’s less to break or replace, saving you money on maintenance and repairs.
- Easy to Install: Solar deck lights are usually very easy to install since they don’t require wiring. This makes them perfect for DIY projects.
- Low Maintenance: Solar lights require minimal maintenance. You should only replace the batteries every few years and clean the photovoltaic cells periodically to ensure maximum sunlight absorption.
- Safety: They are safer than traditional lights because there’s no wiring involved, eliminating the risk of electrocution or fire from faulty wires.
- Automatic Operation: Most solar deck lights have light sensors that enable them to turn on and off automatically based on the surrounding light conditions. This means they’ll turn on at dusk and off at dawn, providing hassle-free operation.
- Variety of Styles: Solar deck lights come in a variety of styles, sizes, and brightness levels, giving you the flexibility to choose what’s best for your aesthetic needs and preferences
What to Consider Before Buying Solar Deck Lights?
1. The Type of Deck Light You Want
When considering the purchase of solar deck lights, it’s essential to determine the type of deck light that suits your needs best.
There are a variety of styles, each serving a unique function and offering a different aesthetic appeal.
For instance, if you want to illuminate the corners of their decks or fence posts, you need a post light.
These lights are designed to sit atop these posts, casting a wide pool of light like our pick VOLISUN Solar Post Light.
If you’re after a more decorative lighting option, rope lights might be just what you’re looking for.
These lights are flexible and can be strung along railings or laid around the edges of your deck, such as the Brightown Solar String Lights I discussed earlier.
That’s why I included various styles of solar lights in my selection, so you can choose the light that suits your needs.
2. Brightness
The brightness of a light is usually measured in lumens. Higher lumens equate to a brighter light, while a lower lumen count yields a more subtle glow.
For instance, suppose you’re looking to create a warm, intimate setting for evening gatherings or want a peaceful, softly lit ambiance for relaxation.
In this case, a lower-lumen light, such as the TomCare Solar Lights, would serve you best with its flickering flames.
Conversely, a higher-lumen light would be more fitting if you need to illuminate an area brightly for safety.
The Aootek Solar Deck Light with its 120 LEDs and 270-degree coverage angle, ensures a wide and vibrant light spread.
I’ve included a diverse selection of solar deck lights in this guide, ranging in brightness levels, so you can find the perfect solution for your lighting needs.
3. Charge Time
You won’t like it if your solar lights don’t fully charge, leaving your deck in the dark when you need them.
The time a solar light takes to fully charge is determined by the efficiency and size of its solar panel.
The more efficient the panel, the less time it will take to absorb sunlight and convert it into electricity for storage.
Similarly, larger panels have more surface area to capture sunlight, speeding up the charging process.
While testing the lights in this guide, I paid close attention to their charging times and efficiency to ensure they all offer at least 1 hour for every hour of sunlight.
4. Run Time
Two factors affect the run time of a solar deck light: the battery capacity and the number of LEDs.
The battery capacity determines how much energy the light can store and use.
A higher battery capacity will typically provide a longer run time.
The number of LEDs also plays a role, as each LED consumes a certain amount of energy.
More LEDs will require more energy to operate, which can reduce the overall run time.
However, you should know that the advertised run time is the maximum time the model can last, so take the numbers with a grain of salt.
So, I’ve tested every model I included in this guide to ensure they all offer at least 6-8 hours after a full charge.
5. Material & Quality
The material and quality of solar deck lights are crucial factors that determine their durability, lifespan, and overall performance.
Materials like aluminum or stainless steel can withstand exposure to various weather conditions, including rain, snow, humidity, and UV rays.
Plastic can also offer good weather resistance and durability. They can withstand moderate rain, snow, and humidity exposure without easily deteriorating or becoming brittle.
However, it’s important to note that plastic may not have the same strength and longevity as aluminum or stainless steel materials.
I’ve tested each model on this list, and I can assure you that all of them are made of quality materials that won’t break during installation or shipping.
6. Waterproofing Rate
Any outdoor lighting, including solar deck lights, should have a high waterproofing rate to ensure reliable operation and longevity in outdoor environments.
Waterproofing is essential to protect the lights from rain, snow, and other forms of moisture.
When considering solar deck lights, checking their waterproofing or IP (Ingress Protection) rating is important.
The IP rating consists of two numbers, with the first indicating the level of protection against solid particles and the second indicating the level of protection against liquids.
Here are a few examples:
- IP44: A light with this rating is protected against solid objects larger than 1mm and splashing water from all directions.
- IP45: A light with this rating is protected against solid objects larger than 1mm and low-pressure water jets from all directions.
- IP65: This rating offers complete protection against dust and can withstand low-pressure water jets, making it suitable for heavy rain.
- IP68: A light with this rating is fully dustproof and can withstand continuous submersion in water, making it highly durable even in adverse weather conditions.
Considering the outdoor nature, I recommend not settling for a solar light with less than an IP65 rating.
Anything lower might not hold up well under heavy rainfall or prolonged exposure to the sun.
7. Warranty
You should always look for a solar deck light with a warranty.
The warranty serves as a guarantee from the manufacturer that they stand behind the quality and reliability of their product.
When buying solar deck lights, take the time to review the warranty terms and conditions.
Look for details such as the warranty duration, what it covers, and any specific requirements or limitations.
Some warranties may cover the entire light fixture, while others may have separate coverage for components like solar panels or batteries.
A warranty may also offer financial security by providing options for repair, replacement, or refunds if the solar deck light fails to perform as expected.
Remember to keep your purchase and warranty information documentation in a safe place. This will be helpful in case you need to make a warranty claim in the future.
That’s why in this guide, I’ve made it a priority only to include solar outdoor lights that offer at least a 1-year warranty or a 30-day money-back guarantee.
FAQs
Do Solar Deck Lights Need Direct Sunlight?
Solar deck lights need direct sunlight to charge efficiently and provide optimal performance.
How Do I Choose the Best Solar Deck Lights?
To choose the best solar deck lights, consider factors such as brightness, battery capacity, durability, and waterproofing to ensure the best fit for your needs.
Conclusion
As promised, we’ve covered the top 10 solar deck lights that have been rigorously tested and evaluated for their performance, durability, brightness, and overall value.
And if you ask me for my recommendation, I would go for the Aootek Solar Deck Light for its easy installation, reliable performance, and long run time.
Do you still have any questions? Feel free to leave them in the comments below.
