Do you have a fence or deck that could use some lighting?
If so, solar post lights are the perfect solution!
Not only are they affordable and light up beautifully, but they also don’t require any wiring!
Just place them on top of your fence or deck posts and let the sun do its thing.
We know how hard and overwhelming it’s to shop for solar post lights, so we’ve done the research for you.
We have over 5 years of experience in the solar lighting industry and have handpicked the 10 best solar post lights for you.
So sit back, relax, and check out our list.
Table of Contents
How to Choose the Best Solar Post Lights
Before getting into our top picks, let’s discuss some important factors to consider when choosing solar post lights.
This section will help you understand the technical specs and find the right fit for your outdoor space.
1. Size
The first and most important thing to consider when choosing solar light is the size of your post.
It doesn’t matter if you have the best solar power light if it doesn’t fit!
So, make sure you measure the diameter of your post and choose a light that is compatible with it.
2. Brightness
The light brightness of solar light is measured in lumens. The higher the number of lumens, the brighter the light will be.
Too many lumens can be overwhelming, so consider the location and purpose of the light before choosing a certain level of brightness.
If you want a light to provide a soft, subtle glow in your garden, choose one with about 10 lumens.
If you want a light to provide ample illumination for your driveway or pathway, choose one with at least 50 lumens.
To learn more, check this article on how to make your solar light brighter.
3. Light Temperature
Solar light also comes in different light temperatures, measured on the Kelvin scale.
- Warm white lights (2500-3000K) have a softer, warmer glow that is similar to traditional incandescent lights.
- Cool white lights (3500-4100K) have a brighter, bluer glow that is similar to fluorescent lights.
4. Light Design
Solar light comes in a variety of designs, from traditional lamp post styles to modern and sleek designs.
Choose one that complements the aesthetic of your outdoor space and personal preference.
Don’t compromise, there is definitely a solar light out there that fits your style!
4. Charge Time
The charge time refers to how long it takes for the light to fully charge in sunlight.
It depends on the wattage of the solar panel and the battery’s ability.
Solar panel work by converting sunlight into electricity and the more efficient and bigger these solar panel, the more electricity it’ll produce and the faster it’ll fully charge the battery.
Most solar post lights should fully charge within 8 hours of direct sunlight.
Notice that I said “direct sunlight,” if your solar light is shaded or if the sunbeam is not intense enough, the lights will take longer to charge.
5. Run Time
The run time refers to how long the light will stay lit after being fully charged.
This duration depends on 2 factors: the battery capacity and the LED wattage.
The more intense the light is, the faster it drains the battery, so you get less run time.
You can always replace your solar light battery with a bigger one but it’s not always an efficient solution because the amount of electricity you generate during the day depends on the solar panels, so if you have weak solar panels, it won’t matter how big the battery is.
Most solar post cap lights last about 8 hours at night after fully charging during the day.
6. Weatherproof Rating
When it comes to solar lights, I put a lot of emphasis on the waterproof rating.
This is because solar light is meant to be used outdoors.
They are exposed to the elements 24/7, so if the light is not properly sealed, it will quickly break and become useless.
The weatherproof rating is usually indicated by an IP followed by 2 numbers.
The first number indicates the level of protection against solid objects (such as dust) and the second number indicates the level of protection against water.
The higher the numbers, the better protected it is.
Here is a list of the most popular solar post cap lights’ IP ratings and what they protect from:
- IP44: Protects from low-pressure sprays (normal rain & water splashes)
- IP65: Protects from low-pressure water jets (heavy rain)
No matter what type of solar light you get, I always recommend you improve the light’s sealing with silicon.
7. Materials
The materials used for the construction of solar post lights also affect their durability and lifespan.
You want a material that won’t rust or lose its color due to sun exposure.
Some materials to look for are stainless steel, aluminum, and plastic with UV inhibitors.
8. Warranty
A good warranty indicates the confidence a manufacturer has in their product.
After all, why would you trust a product that the maker themselves don’t trust enough to provide a safety net for?
Look for solar post cap lights with at least a 1-year warranty, but the longer the better.
Solar Energy Hackers Best Solar Post Lights Selection
Most Popular
Davinci Flexfit Solar Post Cap Light
Key Features
- Material: ABS plastic
- Dimensions: 6.3″L x 3.54″W x 6.3″H
- Base Size: Adjustable base that fits 4″, 5″, and 6″ posts
- Brightness: 25 Lumens
- Light Color: Warm White
- Run Time: 8 Hours
- Charge Time: 8 Hours
- Waterproof Rating: IP44
Most Popular
Davinci Flexfit Solar Post Cap Light
Key Features
- Material: ABS plastic
- Dimensions: 6.3″L x 3.54″W x 6.3″H
- Base Size: Adjustable base that fits 4″, 5″, and 6″ posts
- Brightness: 25 Lumens
- Light Color: Warm White
- Run Time: 8 Hours
- Charge Time: 8 Hours
- Waterproof Rating: IP44
- Warranty: 30 Days
The Davinci Flexfit solar light is -undoubtedly- one of the best solar post cap lights out there.
Its adjustable base allows it to fit any 4×4, 5×5, and 6×6 posts, making it a versatile option for any fence or deck. It’s actually one of the best solar fence lights out there.
The light emits 25 lumens of warm white light that is truly beautiful and you would feel calm and soothed just by watching it illuminate the area around you.
With a running time of up to 8 hours, you are assured to get bright light for almost all night. However, you need to charge it for about 8 hours too.
While this ratio isn’t the most optimal, it would suffice for most people.
The installation process is really easy. All you need to screw the base into your post and snap on the light – it’s that simple!
Davinci also manufactured this light with industrial grade plastic with a layer of UV protection to prevent the light from fading and cracking in the sun.
Although these solar lights are absolutely great, they aren’t perfect and still have downsides.
The first downside is the IP44 waterproof rating, which will only protect from splashing water, so I have to advise you to opt for higher waterproofing solar post lights if you get a lot of heavy rains.
The second downside is the warranty, at only 30 days it’s not the best but I assure you that the quality and performance of these solar post lights more than makeup for it.
Overall, the Davinci Flexfit solar post cap light is a great option for anyone looking to add some beautiful, energy-efficient lighting to their fence or deck.
No wonder it’s the solar post lights of choice for more than 10,000 homeowners.
Pros
- Sleek design
- Adjustable base fits 4×4, 5×5, and 6×6 wood posts
- 25 lumens output
- Great value for the money
- Loved and trusted by more than 10,000 homeowners
- Available in both pearl white & slate black colors
Cons
- Small solar panel
- IP44 waterproof rating
Runner up
Twinsluxes Solar Post Lights
Key Features
- Material: ABS plastic
- Dimensions: 5″L x 2.4″W x 5″H
- Base Size: Adjustable base that fits 4″, 5″, and 6″ posts
- Brightness: 25 Lumens
- Light Color: 2 Modes (Cool & Warm White)
- Run Time: 8 Hours
- Charge Time: 8 Hours
- Waterproof Rating: IP44
- Warranty: 30 Days
Ok, so these solar post lights by Twinsluxes are very similar -if not identical- to the Davinci Flexfit Solar Post Cap Light.
The only difference is that this one comes with 2 light modes: cool white and warm white.
It has the same lumens output, the same size, and even the same price as the Flexfit.
So, why did I include it as a runner up and not just go with the Flexfit solar post cap light?
Well, it’s because of the color.
I really like this bronze color option, like seriously just look at it. It’s gorgeous.
The bronze color gives it a more rustic vibe compared to the regular black or white options, which can go well with certain outdoor decor styles.
But aside from that, it’s basically the same light and just as good of a choice.
Best Accent
Siedinlar Solar Post Cap Lights
Key Features
- Material: Metal
- Dimensions: 6.22”L x 6.22″W x 3.54”H
- Base Size: Fits all sizes of posts
- Brightness: 15 Lumens
- Light Color: Warm White
- Run Time: 10 Hours
- Charge Time: 8 Hours
- Waterproof Rating: IP65
- Warranty: 1 Year
If you are looking for a decorative solar post cap light that will emit an amazing pattern onto your outdoor space, then the Siedinlar solar lights are the way to go.
These solar post lights have a beautiful patterned design on the sides that will add some character to your space while still being subtle enough to not overwhelm it.
The lumens output is on the lower end (15 lumens,) but it’s still enough to provide a soft glow for your outdoor space.
Siedinlar also designed the light with a pyramid reflector that will evenly distribute the warm white light, so you don’t get glaring spots or dark areas.
It’s just a very warm, soothing light that adds a bit of charm to your yard.
The solar part is also quite good. These lights can stay lit for up to 10 hours at night after about 8 hours of direct sunlight.
In terms of durability and longevity, this one is better than the last 3 options with a waterproof rating of IP65, which can handle heavy rain and snow with no problem.
Also, the metal, corrosion & UV resistant frame is meant to last for years without rusting or fading.
And the best part? These solar lights come with a 1-year warranty, so you are covered in case of any defects or malfunctions.
When it comes to drawbacks, first of all, the lights are made of very thin metal, so it can be bent if not handled carefully during installation.
Also, the base fits 5×5 posts perfectly but if you have a 6×6 post, then you’ll need to remove or flip the base and install it directly onto the post, which takes away a lot of the light’s beauty and make it look unfinished.
Overall, I highly recommend these lights for anyone who wants a decorative accent to their outdoor space.
Pros
- Beautiful, decorative pattern
- Pyramid reflector for even light distribution
- IP65 waterproof rating
- 1-year warranty
Cons
- Thin metal material can be bent easily
- Can be installed on all sizes of posts but you’ll need to remove or flip the base for 6×6 posts
Long Lasting
Fooyancho Round Post Light
Key Features
- Material: Aluminum
- Dimensions: 6.3″L x 6.3″W x 6.3″H
- Base Size: Fits all sizes of posts
- Brightness: 400 Lumens
- Light Color: 3 modes (White, Warm White, and Warm)
- Run Time: Up to 5 days
- Charge Time: 8 Hours
- Waterproof Rating: IP65
- Warranty: 3 Years
If you are looking for solar post lights that will last for a long time, then look no further than the Fooyancho round post light.
Not only does it have one of the highest lumens output on this list at 400 lumens, but it also has the longest run time.
The Fooyancho light can stay lit for up to 5 days with just 8 hours of direct sunlight, which is really impressive.
But that’s not all, the light also has 3 different lighting modes (white, warm white, and warm,) so you can choose the perfect ambiance for your outdoor space.
And it has a durable, aluminum frame with an IP65 waterproof rating, so it can withstand rain or snow without any problem.
The installation is also quite easy with a universal base that fits all sizes of posts.
Plus, it comes with a 3-year warranty for added peace of mind.
One minor downside is that the light isn’t as decorative as some of the others on this list, but it’s still an excellent option for anyone who values long-lasting, dependable lighting for their outdoor space.
Pros
- High lumens output at 400
- Long run time of up to 5 days
- 3 lighting modes
- Durable, aluminum frame
- Universal base fits all sizes of posts
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Less decorative than some other options on the list.
- On the expensive side.
Best Modern Design
Maggift Solar Post Cap Light
Key Features
- Material: ABS plastic
- Dimensions: 5″L x 2.4″W x 5″H
- Base Size: Adjustable base that fits 4″, 5″, and 6″ posts
- Brightness: 15 Lumens
- Light Color: Warm White
- Run Time: 8 Hours
- Charge Time: 6 Hours
- Waterproof Rating: IP44
- Warranty: 30 Days
If you want a solar post light with a modern and futuristic design, then the Maggift Solar Post Cap Light is the perfect choice for you.
Similar to the Davinci lights, the Maggift lights feature an adjustable base that fits 4×4, 5×5, and 6×6 posts.
It also emits a warm white light that adds a cozy ambiance to your outdoor space.
However, the main difference is the light brightness.
The Maggift solar post cap lights emit only 15 lumens of brightness compared to Davinci’s 25 lumens.
It’s almost half the brightness, so if you want a brighter light then this might not be the best option for you.
It’s more like an accent light to help guide the way rather than a strong source of light for your outdoor space, which is something you might prefer if you don’t want overly bright lights.
But, the good news is that it only requires 6 hours of charge time and has a run time of 8 hours, which is better than the Davinci lights.
The Maggift solar post cap light also has a weatherproof rating of IP44, which will protect against splashing water, but not heavy rains.
There are 2 drawbacks to these lights.
The first one is the lack of light diffusers.
Diffusers work by spreading the light, creating a softer and more even light effect.
Without it, the light can be super harsh and bright in one spot while leaving other spots dark.
In other words, the light can’t illuminate the area around it efficiently and can cause glare.
The second is the warranty.
This light used to come with a 6-month product warranty not so long ago but Maggift removed that and now only offers a 30-day warranty, which isn’t great.
I’m not sure why they did that, but overall, the Maggift solar lights are a great choice for anyone looking for an accent post light.
Pros
- Modern, futuristic design
- Adjustable base fits 4×4, 5×5, and 6×6 wood posts
- Warm white light that isn’t too bright
- Only 6 hours of charge time
- Available in white and black colors
- There is an RGB color-changing option available
Cons
- They removed the 6-month warranty
- The installation holes are too big for the screws
- The lack of light reflectors
Best Effect
BlueYang Solar Post Light
Key Features
- Material: Tempered glass & ABS plastic
- Dimensions: 5.51″L x 10.75″W x 5.51″H
- Base Size: Installed directly into 4″ posts but for posts bigger than 5″, you’ll need the base
- Brightness: TBC
- Light Color: Warm White
- Run Time: 12 Hours
- Charge Time: 8 Hours
- Waterproof Rating: IP55
- Warranty: 30 Days
If you are looking to add a romantic touch to your garden, yard, or walkway, then the BlueYang solar post light is the way to go.
The light features real looking flames that give off a warm, mesmerizing glow, making it the perfect addition to any outdoor gathering or dinner party.
This light has a unique design with a beautiful, tempered glass top and elegantly curved frame made of ABS plastic.
In terms of run time, these beautiful flames can dance for up to 12 hours at night, creating a perfect campfire atmosphere that is really mood-enhancing.
However, you should expect the light to have a lower brightness compared to other options on this list as it is mainly meant for decorative purposes.
The installation is also a bit more complicated.
If you have a 4″ post, then you can just place the light directly on top of the post and screw it from the sides.
But for posts bigger than 5″, you’ll need to screw the included base into the post, then secure the light into the base.
Overall, it’s one of the best solar flicker flame lights on the market and you’ll definitely love it.
Pros
- Unique, mode-enhancing flame design
- Tempered glass top and elegant ABS plastic frame
- IP55 waterproof rating
- Up to 12 hours of run time
- There are 3 flame color options (blue, yellow, and purple) and 2 frame colors (white & black)
Cons
- Only 30 days warranty
Best Crackle Glass
SunnyPark Solar Globe Post Light
Key Features
- Material: Tempered glass, stainless steel, and ABS plastic
- Dimensions: 4.17″ L x 4.17″ W x 5.1″ H
- Base Size: 4″
- Brightness: 5 Lumens
- Light Color: 3 Options (Cool White, Warm White, Color Changing)
- Run Time: 10 Hours
- Charge Time: 8 Hours
- Waterproof Rating: IP44
- Warranty: 30 Days
The SunnyPark solar post light is quite unique, they look terrific and the light pattern produced is really really calming to the body and soul, they are perfect after a stressful day.
The light has a beautiful crackle glass design with a stainless steel and ABS plastic frame that adds an elegant touch to any outdoor space.
The globe is made from high quality crystal glass that gives off a stunning, multi-colored glow (if you choose the color changing option) or cool white and warm white options for those who prefer a more classic look. It also works really well with other solar crackle glass lights.
This light isn’t as bright as some other options on this list with only 5 lumens, but it does have a decent run time of up to 10 hours after 8 hours of outdoor lighting charging.
In terms of installation, it’s quite simple as it just fits onto 4″ posts without the need for any additional tools or accessories.
However, note that the IP44 waterproof rating means that the light is only protected against splashing water, not heavy rain or submersion.
Pros
- Up to 10 hours of run time
- Unique fairy tail look
- A beautiful light pattern
- 3 lighting color options
- Simple installation on 4″ posts
Cons
- Lower brightness at 5 lumens
- Only 30 days warranty
Best Quality
Kemeco ST4311AQ Solar Post Fixture
Key Features
- Material: Tempered glass & stainless steel
- Dimensions: 8.8″ L x 8.8″ W x 18.1″ H
- Base Size: Installed directly into 3″ posts but for posts bigger than 5″, you’ll need the base
- Brightness: 135 Lumens
- Light Color: Warm White
- Run Time: 8 Hours
- Charge Time: 5 Hours
- Waterproof Rating: IP43
- Warranty: 1 Year
Kemeco gives a wonderful example of elegance and class with its premium solar LED post lights.
What really sets them apart from other models that have the same look is that they went for a full cast-aluminum metal lamp thus giving it the full premium look and durability.
The look is pretty authentic and is really eye-catching, despite being on the expensive side, I highly recommend getting them.
They are worth every penny, and would definitely make you feel like you are some sort of Duke or Duchess in the olden times.
The running time is about 8 hours, and the Kemeco solar post lights need about 5 hours to fully charge, which is very nice.
Also, they come with a 1-year warranty, as expected from such a high-end product.
Pros
- Premium, elegant design
- Full cast-aluminum metal lamp
- 135 lumens
- 1 year warranty
Cons
- Expensive price point
- Lower waterproof rating at IP43
Best for Pillars
Gama Sonic Outdoor Solar Post Light
Key Features
- Material: Tempered glass & stainless steel
- Dimensions: 9″L x 9″W x 18″H
- Base Size: Installed directly into 3″ posts but for posts bigger than 5″, you’ll need the base
- Brightness: 120 Lumens
- Light Color: Warm White
- Run Time: 10 Hours
- Charge Time: 6 Hours
- Waterproof Rating: IP65
- Warranty: 2 Years
If you need some solar pillar lighting for your outdoor area, the Gama Sonic Outdoor Solar Post Light is definitely worth checking out.
Not only does it provide a warm white light with 120 lumens of brightness, but it also has a sleek and modern design that will enhance any space.
You would love their breathtaking appearance and how they look marvelous in the morning and at night as well.
Gama also offers you plenty of different solar post lamp shapes including the Wall Scone Lamp, Double Lamp, and the Triple Lamp to suffice all your decoration needs.
This solar post light can be installed directly into 3″ posts, but for posts bigger than 5″, you’ll need to install the separate base.
It has a run time of up to 10 hours and a charge time of 6 hours, so you are getting 1.5 hours of lighting for every hour of sunlight, which is one of the best ratios on this list.
Plus it boasts a waterproof rating of IP65 and a 2-year warranty.
The only downside is the price.
Yes, it’s a top-notch product that will last for many years to come, but for some, it might be a bit too expensive.
But if you have the budget and want to make a statement with your outdoor lighting, definitely go for the Gama Sonic Outdoor Solar Post Light.
Pros
- Sleek and modern design
- Last up to 10 hours at night
- IP65 waterproof rating
- 120 lumens of brightness
- 2 year warranty
Cons
- Quite expensive
FAQs
How Long Does a Solar Post Cap Light Last?
Solar post cap lights last anywhere between 1 and 8 years depending on the manufacturer and the quality of your solar lights.
Do Solar Post Cap Lights Work in Winter?
Solar post cap lights work in winter, however, they won’t last as long since there is less sunlight for them to charge during the day.
During the winter months, you should expect your solar led lights to last only 4-5 hours at night.
Do Solar Post Lights Come with Batteries?
All solar lights come with rechargeable batteries.
Do Solar Post Lights Work If It’s Cloudy All Day?
Solar lights will work if it’s cloudy but since clouds can block and scatter sunlight, the solar light won’t be able to fully charge and may not last as long at night.
Why Do Solar Post Cap Lights Have an on/off Switch?
The on/off switch on solar post lights is used to turn the solar lights off in case you want to deep charge the battery or store your lights during the winter months.
Why Is My Solar Post Light Not Working?
Your solar powered post light is not working because the switch is off or the battery has a pull tab in it.
Last Words
As promised, in this article, we have provided you with the 10 best solar post cap lights currently on the market.
From traditional style to modern design, brightness levels, waterproof ratings, and even planters, there is a solar post light for everyone’s taste and needs.
So start saving energy and money by investing in one of these solar post lights today.
Hi Kami. Your explanations are really clear and helpful. The lights you recommend won’t work for us. We get a ton of rain here, not much sun in winter, and are looking for a modern looking, dark colored housing post cap solar light. Most on your list are for dryer climates, or are white housing, or more traditional looking. Would you have any recommendations for us? Thank you!