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Best Outdoor Motion Sensor Lights
But, how do you buy them and what do you need to look out for? Well, over the course of this guide, you will learn the answer to both of those crucial questions. Along the way, you will also be witnessed by some of the best options that are currently available on the market. And, as you will see, the choices at your disposal do vary quite a bit.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Effectiveness
You want the lights you buy to be able to perform, right?
There is a lot to cover in this section so buckle your seatbelts. To start, be aware that outdoor motion sensor lights will come equipped with different types of motion sensors. There are really all sorts of types out there (such as microwave, passive infrared, ultrasonic sounds and vibration sensors) and each of them will work a little differently. For the record, the most common sensor you will see is passive infrared and this detects body heat. Past this, though, you will need to assess the specifications. This mostly entails assessing the types of bulbs used, brightness levels of said bulbs and motion sensing capabilities.
To start with the type, most generally you will want to stick with LEDs. They can often be much dimmer than other models but they are extremely energy-efficient and long-lasting. Of course, speaking of dim, all you need to do to ensure this is not an issue is to buy lights that emit enough brightness. And, the best way to assess this is to reference the lumen rating of any given model (as lumens equate to brightness). Oh, and as for the motion sensing capabilities, this will come down to how far away the sensor can detect motion and at what angle. If you want full coverage, you will want to look for nothing less than 40-foot coverage at 270 degrees.
Power Source
You need to be aware that different models will be powered in different ways.
When it comes down to it, there is one of three types of outdoor motion sensor lights that you can buy. They can either be powered via rechargeable or regular batteries, via solar energy or via hardwiring. The question becomes, though, which one is best? Well, only you can answer that question as it really comes down to personal preference. But, to give you a better idea of what each power source entails, let’s break this down for you real quick.
For starters, you have models that can utilize batteries. The advantage here is really the convenience in regard to the fact that no hardwiring will be necessary (more on that later). At the same time, ironically, these models are inconvenient as you will need to either recharge or change the batteries when they have no juice remaining. Secondly, you have solar outdoor motion sensor lights and these are very similar. The only difference is they gather energy from the sun which is then stored in their internal batteries. While these can operate when the power goes out, they will require direct access to sunlight in order to charge. And, lastly, you have the most common power method (hardwiring). This is the most reliable as you will never need to worry about recharging any batteries. At the same time, though, if the power goes out then you are out of luck.
Features
It is up to you as you can either get a model that is packed with features or not.
Here is where everything can change. Only you can decide how much control you want for the outdoor motion sensor lights that you end up buying. But, what you need to know is that not all models will be optimized to provide you with such control. Some models will be fairly basic in their designs and will be devoid of any features. On the contrary, however, other lights will be packed with specific features that will allow you to tailor their performance (in some way) to your liking.
For example, there are some motion sensor lights that will allow you to alter the duration that the light emits after it detects motion. Such systems may allow the light to be on anywhere from 10 seconds to a few minutes. Additionally, some units will come with heads that can be rotated. This can allow you to direct the light where you want it. Furthermore, there are motion sensor lights out there that will be equipped with multiple operation modes. Oh, and speaking for hardwired models exclusively for this last point, they will sometimes be engineered with surge protection technology (which is important as power surges will affect them as they will be hardwired to your home).
Ease of Use
This is all about the installation and how easy it is going to be.
Yes, this section plays directly off of the previous section that discussed power sources. But, they are both important enough to justify them each having their own separate sections. So, let’s talk about the installation (which is what this is all about) for a minute. Going back to what was mentioned earlier, there are three different types of outdoor motion sensor lights. And, out of the three of them, solar-powered and battery-powered models are the easiest to install. Most of the time, this will be as simple as mounting them with the included hardware in a suitable place. But, a quick note about models that are solar-powered, they will need to be installed in a location that is exposed to direct sunlight for optimal performance.
Moving on to hardwire lights, these can get tricky. As the name of them suggests, you will need to literally hardwire these types of lights into your home. Now, doing so can be complicated without good directions or prior knowledge. So, if you have neither one of those at your disposal, you may want to seek assistance from an outside source.
Durability
The option you go with should be durable and possibly even weatherproof.
First and foremost, you need to analyze the housing of any model that you are looking at. This is basically in reference to the outer shell and it is the portion that protects all the internal components. For the most part, housings on outdoor motion sensor lights will be made out of plastic or metal. If they are made out of metal, typically it will be some type of aluminum alloy as aluminum is known for its corrosion-resistant properties (and it will not rust). As for plastic, do not be afraid of it. While some plastic can be extremely cheap, most motion sensor lights that sport plastic shells will utilize some sort of high-quality plastic (such as ABS, polyethylene or polypropylene).
Looking past this, you also need to worry about inclement weather. After all, you are looking for outdoor lights and these may be exposed to rain and other such forms of precipitation. And, the best way to assess the weather resistance of any model is to look at its IP rating. This consists of two numbers with the first representing the object’s resistance to solids and the second water. The higher the numbers (with six, seven and eight being the best), the more weather-resistant a model is going to be.
OUR TOP PICKS FOR THE BEST OUTDOOR MOTION SENSOR LIGHTS
1. RAB LIGHTING STL360H
The STL360H is packed with several useful and convenient features for you to utilize. But, it is also a sensor light that needs to be powered via wires (and that means that the installation will be a bit more complex).
Read morePerformance
The LED bulbs that are equipped into this light constantly rotate back and forth to detect motion. And, when motion is detected, these can emit for up to eight hours after dusk.
Power Source
Indeed, this is not solar powered nor is it powered via batteries. Instead, you will need to partake in some electrical work as this utilizes the power from your home.
Features
This is simply packed with features such as built-in surge protection, the ability to adjust the time, and the ability to switch its maximum capacity to 1000 watts.
Installation
For the record, the lamps are not supplied with your purchase so you will need those. As for the installation, this does come with a universal plate.
Build Quality
It is specifically noted that this is ideal for wet locations. But, for extra precaution, you may want to install this under an awning or other such objects to protect it from harsh storms.
Overall
Yes, this is a bit of a pricey selection and you will need additional lamps. However, the performance is worth it as this provides 360 degrees of motion sensor capabilities.
2. HYPERIKON
This light is actually equipped with three separate lights to cover a wider area. All in all, this is one of the best performing models on this entire list (thus justifying its higher ranking).
Read morePerformance
In addition to the 30 to 40-foot motion range and the 150-degree infrared motion sensor that is equipped, these lights can emit 90 lumens of brightness (which is good but not amazing).
Power Source
This is another option that is corded and that means it will not run off of batteries or anything like that.
Features
Looking past the fact that you can rotate the head, you can also adjust the head of this model. This can allow you to completely alter the direction of the light to better suit your needs.
Installation
Though it is advised to buy a junction box with this model, the installation is relatively straight forward. With that said, you still may want to be somewhat knowledgeable about what you are doing.
Build Quality
Despite the IP65 weatherproof rating of this outdoor light, it has been known to have an issue with the lens filling up with water. On another note, it can withstand temperatures from -22 to 120 degrees.
Overall
The triple head design of this model will sell quite a lot of people. While some of you may like the fact that it draws electricity from your home, it holds up extremely well in the performance end of things.
3. LEONLITE
In addition to the fact that this floodlight can cover 360 degrees, it is also engineered with three different operation modes that you can choose from. All in all, it is an incredible design.
Read morePerformance
This is rated to output nearly 2000 lumens (1800, to be exact) of light (which is incredible). Additionally, this can cover 360 degrees and only uses 20 watts of power.
Power Source
Yep, this is yet another outdoor motion sensor light on this list that is wired.
Features
Even though it is really nice to have the ability to toggle between three different operation modes, this really lacks the ability to effectively adjust the sensitivity of the light range.
Installation
The good news is this does come with an advanced mounting box. However, as some users have noted, the included directions are abysmal.
Build Quality
Let’s just say this is built to withstand the nature of the outdoor world. After all, it is complete with a die-cast aluminum housing and an IP65 weatherproof rating.
Overall
In spite of the minor flaws with this design, it is breathtaking in spots. Arguably most impressive is its rugged core and ultra-high brightness output.
4. HERRYSHOME
Right from the get-go, what makes this model unique is the fact that it is solar powered. It is also pretty darn powerful as it can emit up to 1100 lumens of light (at 100 percent charge).
Read morePerformance
As noted, the 48 LED bulbs can emit up to 1100 lumens of light. But, this is only at 100 percent charge as when this drops down to 80 percent, they drop to around 800 lumens. Also, this can detect motion up to 32 feet away and can do so at 360 degrees. However, some users have noted that the motion detection can be inconsistent at times.
Power Source
This is equipped with a polycrystalline silicon solar panel and it allows it to better absorb sunlight. All in all, this can last for up to 12 hours if the battery is fully charged.
Features
The main additional functionality present here are the four different working modes. With the push of a button, you can change between emergency lighting, constant lighting, off-bright, and dim-bright modes.
Installation
The general consensus is that this bad boy is easy to install. There is no wiring involved so for those of you who are concerned about that, the worry is not present here.
Build Quality
In addition to the fact that this is engineered with an aluminum alloy housing, this same housing has been anodized for enhanced protection. Also, the lampshade is resistant to UV rays from the sun.
Overall
In spite of the inconsistent motion detection, this really is an excellent design overall. It is just something you will have to put up with is all.
5. HEATH/ZENITH MISSION-STYLE LIGHT
Unlike the other options on this list, this sucker is a decorative outdoor motion sensor light. After all, it is built with a combination of oil rubbed bronze metal and glass.
Read morePerformance
Utilizing pulse-count technology, this is able to cut down on the number of false triggers by simply reading movement and heat in pulses. Also, this can detect motion from up to 30 feet away.
Power Source
What you will need is an incandescent light bulb to power this (though one is not included). Due to the fact that LED bulbs are not used (though you can use dim ones), though, this will consume bulbs much quicker.
Features
All in all, you can choose between three different auto modes. Additionally, this can be used as a primary source of light thanks to the built-in manual override mode.
Installation
Yes, this does come with a wall mount. Again, though, this will take a little bit of knowledge to install (though it should not be anything too tricky).
Build Quality
One of the best aspects of this model is its construction. It is built with oil rubbed bronze metal and also sports clear seeded glass. Oh, and it has also been coated with a weather-resistant finish.
Overall
Due to the simple fact that this does not utilize LED bulbs (only dim ones), it may not be for everyone. But, it is an excellent decorative piece that also serves its purpose well as an outdoor motion sensor light.
6. MAXSA INNOVATIONS
With the use of three NiMH batteries, this spotlight is able to detect motion up to 40 feet away. What is also nice is this is versatile in its design (as you can adjust many settings and features).
Read morePerformance
Overall, this spotlight is excellent for smaller more contained areas. But, it can detect motion up to 40 feet away within a 180-degree area (it is just not very bright).
Power Source
Even though this looks like another wired model, it actually runs off of three rechargeable NiMH batteries. When fully charged, these batteries are rated to last 90 minutes (or 90, one-minute activations).
Features
There are definitely some features that you can mess around with here such as the ability to alter the light duration after the motion stops and the direction of the heads.
Installation
The same batteries previously alluded to receive their energy from the solar panels which gather said energy from the sun. So, this means that the installation process will be quite simple.
Build Quality
Even though the IP44 rating is not the best it means that this can withstand certain types of weather conditions. Also, this sports a high-density polyethylene housing.
Overall
About the only real “disappointing” aspect of this model is the fact that it does not emit much brightness. Outside of that, it really is a fantastic motion sensor light to install.
7. RAB LIGHTING STL360HBW
Yes, this option from RAB Lighting is very similar to the other one that is on this list. While that one is slightly superior in quality, you also can’t go wrong with this model either.
Read morePerformance
This lighting system has the capability of sensing 180 degrees straight out and 360 degrees down. Also, it can run at 1000 watts for total detection of motion.
Power Source
Due to the fact that this accepts 120 volts of input power, anybody in North America should be able to install it as this is the standard.
Features
The STL360HBW sports many of the same features that the STL360H does such as surge protection technology and time delay adjustments. At the same time, this does not come equipped with a dual bright function.
Installation
If you wanted to, you could have this installed by your electrician to err on the side of caution. After all, it will need to be wired into your home.
Build Quality
The white cast aluminum housing is really nice as this helps to prevent corrosion. Yet, there is a plastic joint that allows the unit to tilt and it is not well-made.
Overall
Several of you may be looking to avoid wired outdoor motion sensor lights and that is completely understandable. At the same time, though, this does deliver the goods.
8. LITOM
This is a very popular brand of lights so it is no surprise to see it make an appearance on this list. This pack of four solar lights, while small in size, is energy-efficient and packed with long-lasting LED bulbs.
Read morePerformance
While these are quite small and do not emit that much light, they can detect movement up to 26 feet away and can also detect 270 degrees around.
Power Source
Indeed, these are solar lights and that means that they draw their power from the sunlight (more or less). But, the integrated battery still will not last that long once it is fully charged.
Features
While the premise behind these lights was to make them as simple as possible, it can be a little disappointing to know that only one mode is built into these suckers.
Installation
Installation of all four of these lights is quick and simple. There is no hardwiring to worry about and all you need to perform is some basic steps.
Build Quality
While these are made out of plastic, it is not cheap plastic (both ABS and polypropylene). Also, each light is weatherproof to IP65 standards.
Overall
If you can get over how small these are and understand their limitations in that respect, you should be able to enjoy them. They are well-built and convenient, after all.
9. SENGLED
Be aware that this is not going to work by itself. Instead, it is a LED bulb that needs to be installed into preexisting fixtures. This makes it ideal, though, as it can be installed virtually anywhere.
Read morePerformance
Let’s just say this bad boy can perform. It can emit up to 1050 lumens of light, sports an LED bulb rated to last 25,000 hours and can detect motion within 30 feet of the sensor. Of course, the 100-degree detection zone is quite limited.
Power Source
Indeed, as mentioned, this needs to be installed into preexisting fixtures either inside or on the outside of your home.
Features
For whatever reason, this was not designed with a sensor to prevent it from turning on during daylight hours. Without question, that is the biggest downside of this model.
Installation
This is about as easy as it gets for installation assuming you have a fixture that is already installed in an appropriate location.
Build Quality
It is noted in the product description that this is rated for outdoor placement. It is also rated to handle wet environments.
Overall
If you want an individual light source that can be installed anywhere you please you may be disappointed with this option. For what it is, however, it is very useful.
10. MR BEAMS
While some users have questioned the weatherproof design that this claims to have, it is still a solid spotlight that can perform quite nicely as an outdoor motion sensor light.
Read morePerformance
In addition to the fact that this can detect motion within 30 feet and provides 350 square feet of coverage, it can emit 140 lumens of brightness.
Power Source
It is worth noting that the D batteries needed for this spotlight do not come with your purchase. Also, it is claimed that this works best with Polaroid D Batteries.
Features
This seems to be pretty basic in its design as it turns off and on automatically once it detects motion.
Installation
As this is a wireless model, the installation process is going to be quick and straightforward. You should have too many issues with it.
Build Quality
Though this is advertised to be weatherproof, it most certainly is not (based on user feedback). Excess rain seems to get inside and this will then cause corrosion. Now, to prevent this, install this under an awning or anywhere outside that can provide protection for it.
Overall
The non-weatherproof design does hurt this outdoor motion sensor light. Yet, there are ways around it if you still wanted to buy this affordable and practical spotlight.
Sources
- , LED Wireless Motion Sensor Light FAQ, Article
- , The 8 Best Outdoor Motion Sensor Lights of 2019, Review
- , TOP 10 BEST OUTDOOR MOTION SENSOR LIGHT REVIEWS, Review