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Best Outdoor String Lights
Since these types of lights have become increasingly popular, there is now a wide variety of options on the market. Narrow it down by reading through our top 10 picks.
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Features
When deciding on what type of string illuminations you want to get, you’ll really need to feel about a few attributes, including socket types and wire color. We’ll cover these features in more depth below.
Socket Types
There are a variety of socket types available on the market today when you are shopping around for a set of string lights. If you want something a bit fancy, you might want to try something in copper, since you get a feeling of a previous time period when you display them, and they have an antique feel. You can also consider ones that are suspended, and these look great for parties and creating a coffee shop feel. Last, there are in-lines, which sit even with everything else on the wire.
Wire Color
Another feature that is important for you to consider before you make your purchase is wire color. Some people are more particular about this than others. Typically, you can purchase wires that are green, white, or black. Other colors do exist, and how picky you are about wire color is really up to you. You may simply wish to hide the wire.
Bulb Finish
LED lights provide fashionable finishes on their bulbs to help make the light more attractive. Typically, finishes come in either satin or transparent. Bulbs usually come transparent or with a satin finish. Transparent bulbs make your area feel brighter, while satin bulbs do not create as much light. So, which kind you pick really depends on how you want your lighting to look where you hang it. If you want something that is brighter, then you should go with transparent bulbs. However, if you want something that is a bit softer, then satin will work better for you. By picking out the bulb finish choices, you’ll be able to get the feel and ambiance you want where you are hanging your bulbs.
Style
Like footwear and perfume, light bulbs have style fluctuations. About a decade or so ago, the most common types of lights being used by this type of product were larger bulbs, but those have fallen a bit out of fashion. While some people still use these types of lights outdoors, and they can still look amazing, more and more individuals have started purchasing smaller lights to illuminate areas of their residences. Bulbs come in a variety of colors and styles as well, and there are plenty of options out there on the market today for you to easily pick what you want, and match it to the style of the area you plan to decorate.
As far as the arrangement with these types of products is concerned, you won’t have to worry about being limited. These products come in a bevy of different arrangement styles, so you won’t have any issues finding what you need. Also, what’s even better about these products is the fact that these types of lights are made to look fantastic anywhere, so you don’t have to worry about buying specific kinds for certain places. You’ll need to think about how tight you want your product to be hung, or if you want to loosen some slack to create an interesting pattern. After figuring out the arrangement you desire, you need to measure so you keep the lights even whether you place them in a pattern or not. Below we’ll cover four different arrangement choices you may want to consider to give you some ideas.
Straight Lines
If you are big on keeping things precise and even, and you want a type of pattern that can be put anywhere with ease, then you might want to consider hanging your product in straight lines. You can use a single line of lights in a straight line, or double them up so they cover both sides of your surface. If you like the straight line idea but want something a bit different as well, you can hang your product with a checkerboard sequence if you wish.
V Patterns
This style is a bit more complicated to hang up, but it creates a nice overall look. You have to start at a central area of the surface, like on a fence post, drop down at an angle to make one side of the letter V, and then angle opposite back up. You’ll need to measure your angle and the length of the sides, then repeat.
X Patterns
Much like V arrangements look like the letter V, your standard X arrangement looks like the letter X. You’ll be crossing lights in the middle of the letter, and you’ll need to make sure you are pretty taught when you hang this style up. Make sure to measure as you go along.
Drape Designs
If you feel like you need to stick to uncomplicated and simple with this, then you might want a drape design. You’ll just be picking a spot and draping your lights throughout that area. How you drape them is up to you, and you can measure or not measure, depending on the look you want.
Durability
How durable and long lasting your lights are is another important criteria point to consider, along with their energy output.
Electricity effectiveness
LED products use far less electricity, making them almost nine times more energy efficient than incandescent bulbs. LED products do not have a “getting ready” process, either. On the other hand, an incandescent bulb has first get warm to make light, and that eats up a lot of energy. LED products don’t do this, and that is why they are so energy saving. Also, using less heat to give you your illumination means LED products are also much safer, and far less likely to start fires.
Longevity
LED products have a lot of life in them, giving you double to triple the time of incandescent bulbs. Plus, with LED products, you get a lighter item that also won’t break or get damaged as easily, which is also a nice bonus.
Brightness
Incandescents are the brighter of the two lights, but LED products still have an advantage here that can counterbalance this. LED products allow for more bulbs, and thus more light, on their chords, and that means this factor is about equivalent between the two light types.
Top 10 Picks
1. G40 Patio Globe
A lot of colors options are available with these exterior string light device that is constructed strongly to endure all weather conditions. If they are too long, you can splice the lights to fit your illumination requirements. G49’s lights look beautiful when set up, and can really do the trick if you are looking to add ambiance for your next party.
Read moreFeatures
This exterior string light arrives with a sticky tape that helps it effortlessly affix to surface areas. It additionally offers you two copper layers for resilience. The copper appeal and tone variety of LED colors combination work consistently. This exterior string light is additionally very inexpensive.
This set remains efficient even following lengthy hours of functioning. This helps to make it optimal for not only outdoor use but also indoor environments where thermostat regulation is vital.
Style
This set of lights is visually appealing and features a nice, unique, round shape. It includes a remote selection for simple regulation. You’ll also get a couple of nice settings. The first setting is strobe, which functions like strobe lights. You’ll also get fade as the second selection for decreased lights.
Durability
This product was constructed of strong versatile content that helps to make it simple to adjust so it can accommodate numerous environments. It additionally arrives with a guarantee from the merchant allowing you to get the product fixed if anything happens. This is an assurance provided to you from the supplier in case an element fails, you’ll have support from the company and get the lights back to working with a simple phone call.
2. Lampart Exterior
Enriching your exterior dining vicinity or patio right now? Then the Lampart Exterior String Light might be for you. This vibe lighting device is optimal for your easygoing spring suppers under the evening sky. You’ll get plenty of relaxing ambiance anytime you sit outside at night, and you’ll also be able to impress at your next party.
Read moreFeatures
This exterior string light offers you a strong case on the outside that seals out water, and its design makes it suitable for enduring all weather conditions. You’ll get a string light set plus the fittings you need to install it.
You get two light selections with this kit. The first selection is called a flashlight and allows the lights to function similar to a flashlight. The second is called steady light, and that is what most users claim is the normal selection. Plus, you get plenty of energy savings in each mode since this kit runs on solar power.
Style
It is constructed to be strong and resilient, meaning its design allows it to be utilized in exterior environments while offering the promise of long-lasting durability. The design content is additionally very versatile, which means the kit can be adjusted to accommodate numerous environments.
Durability
Plus, this product set is automated. It comes on after sunset and goes off at sunrise. You’ll also receive a guarantee covering several of its elements. The guarantee promises excellent performance and productivity are ensured by the manufacturer. If any element of this exterior string light goes awry, the supplier can assist the servicing process, exchanging it, or refunding it based on their warranty and guarantee.
3. Proxy Lighting
You can add some playfulness to your outdoor setting with these neat lights, brightening up your backyard at night, You’ll get a versatile product you can utilize wherever you’d like, either to light up your house’s interior or exterior. Also, this kit is very energy efficient and uses solar power. Plus, you’ll also get plenty of color variety with the lights.
Read moreFeatures
You’ll enjoy the automation, and you’ll have lights that turn off during the day and come on in the evening. You can kick back and enjoy because the exterior string lights to stay on then turn off even if you decompress all night outside and accidentally fall asleep.
Style
If you like your exterior lighting relaxing, and you also want to impress your friends, then consider this product choice. You can produce a very tranquil and relaxing evening environment that you’ll enjoy showing off. When you think of outdoor string lights, this is probably the style that comes to mind. They are simple and best for simple hanging.
Durability
Its guarantee covers several weather conditions. And even if something goes awry or isn't just functioning, the specialists are ready to help you when you call. Not only are you getting a durable set, they additionally are very versatile. So, you can adjust them to accommodate numerous exterior environments.
4. SHINE HAI Weatherproof
If you like color in your set, this product is a great selection because it is functional. This product offers durability and a nice appearance. It arrives complete, giving you many colors allowing you to constantly have the look and lighting you want. It also offers many setting selections that means you can swap colors.
Read moreFeatures
This exterior light set can handle water so it works great for your exterior environment. You can utilize it in patios, yards, trees and pretty much anywhere outside you want to place them. It is so decently priced and can be utilized throughout the day and at evening. It is accessible in the reputable online retail store, Amazon.
This product has a long lifespan when compared to other light sets, which is a huge plus. This efficiency guarantees toughness and a cost-effective product that is built to last. It also brings you a sticky part for simple repairing on surface areas when you need to touch up.
Style
These lights are very versatile. You can, for that reason, utilize it in numerous exterior environments. They are also versatile and easy to adjust for simple manipulation to accommodate your needs in your exterior environments.
Durability
If you purchase this product, you’ll also wind up with something that provides a wonderful guarantee. It covers several parts of the lights and different elements within the guarantee period.
5. Brightech Ambience Pro
If you are looking for an innovative product that looks great and uses less electricity, this may be the perfect solution for you. The vintage style of the lights looks great in any outdoor space and is also great for events.
Read moreFeatures
You’ll get plenty of versatility with this product. You can utilize for security if you’d like, by setting them to automatically come on at dusk until dawn. However, the most striking feature of this set is the fact that they are solar powered and do not require an electrical outlet. Not only is this convenient, but it will also save you money. If you live in an area without a lot of sun, you can also use two AA batteries to charge the lights. They let off a warm-light and a 6-hour charge (full) will give you solar energy light for about 5-hours. Perhaps the second most impressive feature is the fact that they are also quite weatherproof. These lights can stand up to temperamental climates, rain, and winds up to 50mph.
Style
These small, round Edison style lights will add the perfect ambiance to any area. Per 27 foot strand, there are 12 bulbs, which are each spaced 20” apart. The solar panel has a clip that you can clip onto the deck, a window, or anywhere that is convenient.
Durability
The thick black cord is attractive and strong, holding your bulbs in place in any situation. As mentioned, the set is weather resistant and can handle winds up to 50mph. On top of all of this, there is also a 3-year warranty included. Some customers have mentioned that they received a few duds, which can be quite frustrating, but the problem was quickly resolved.
6. Brightown Globe
Durable products mean saving money in the long run and provide plenty of quality, and this product won't let you down. Cost efficient and power effective, this product not only saves you money with durability but also won’t raise your bills since they operate on solar power. The kit comes with a cable and closely- room roped illuminations.
Read moreFeatures
It's a very simple set of illuminations that will guarantee a very effective ambiance where you reside or where you work. The battery holder is designed to last through rain showers, as are the lights so they work well on any exterior.
Style
These lights look similar to traditional lights but slightly rounder. The glistening illuminations are so brilliant, you can even turn them on when it is light outside to highlight products or concepts in demonstrations. Your outside patio will have that enchanting atmosphere you’ve been wanting to create.
Durability
The LED illuminations are extensively designed to maintain coolness and they have a charming appearance. This product also comes with a manufacturer's warranty. So, even if something does fail, all you need to do is call in and you’ll get assistance right away.
7. Minetom Clear Glass
Small and soft in appearance, this product is made to be efficient and effective. If you select this set, you’ll get plenty of durability along with a nice variety of options to match your backyard décor.
Read moreFeatures
This set of lights brings you several choices to fit and match your backyard’s current appearance. They will blend right in and provide you with the illumination you’ll enjoy having. This product is built to last and quite durable, but just in case anything does happen, you’ll get a manufacturer's warranty for any elements that fall short within the service warranty period.
Style
These bulbs are not tinted and have a very clear, clean look. You get a bevy of lighting assortment options with these lights so that you wind up with the style and colors to match your tastes. You’ll get the perfect lighting set, and it will look just as you imagined it in your head.
Durability
It is produced from very durable, strong, and reliable material components so it will come out unharmed even during the most severe predicaments outdoors, no matter where you live and what you might encounter that day. This product gives you an illuminating product for your specific abode, then search no further. This product is waterproof and dependable. Plus, this set is verified to endure hours of subjection to sunrays without weakening its performance.
8. Deneve Illumination
While appearance is always important when picking out this type of product for your needs, for some people, finding something that is also a breeze to install is just as important. This product brings you lights that not only have a nice look to them, but they are also very uncomplicated to use in your yard.
Read moreFeatures
If you’re trying to find something that will last through pouring rain, then this product might work for you. It will work fine even if it gets soaking wet, and snow won’t bother it, either. Plus, with the product’s ease of use and easy adjustability, you can set it up just about anywhere.
Style
This product brings you simple round lights on a thick cord. If you enjoy having parties and gatherings at your house, this product can really add a nice touch of ambiance with its first-class illumination. You’ll also get a cost-effective product that is durable. You get well-designed components that will keep performing well for months, and a nice look in your yard.
Durability
You’ll also get a great warranty with this product that covers it for thirty-six months. That’s a nice, long-lasting warranty, showing that the product is extremely durable as well. So, even if anything does go wrong, you’ll be able to fix your setup easily with a phone call.
9. Fulton’s Outside Set
If you’re in the market for a kit that really impresses others with its ability to create an impressive lighting design at your residence, then you might want to think about this product. If you want a product that can light up your yard at night and even during the day, then this light set can do it all for you while looking very good.
Read moreFeatures
If energy efficiency with this product is another one of your goals with your purchase, then this product fits that requirement. You won’t wind up with a huge monthly increase in your electricity bill. You can also automate them to set them up to work as you want them to. So, these lights can meet your needs,
Style
It is constructed from strong and reliable components that also guarantee durability. Plus, with this product, you’ll get a cord that features insulation on top of it, which makes it very strong. It's very versatile and can be utilized just about anywhere because it is very flexible and simple to adjust.
Durability
You’ll get a product that can withstand rain and snow via its design, and it is built to handle all climates. Also, that means you can put the lights literally anywhere you pick to illuminate your home.
Besides the built-in durability, you also get a manufacturer's warranty. If something fails you, you’ll be able to call and get them replaced or fixed. That should give you some peace of mind if you decide to purchase this product.
10. Mpow
If your goal with lights is to enhance the exterior area of your residence with a product that works well with anything, then you should think about owning this set. This product is durable as well as weather tight, connectable, and creates a relaxing ambiance.
Read moreFeatures
This back yard string illumination is able to handle water while being susceptible to weather issues. This product offers you an uncomplicated item that you can put up without complications.
Built with an extra layer of protection, this product has a coating that helps protect the lights from exposure to hot weather as well as protecting them during rain showers. So, you’ll get a product that is designed to last in any climate.
Style
These lights have an attractive style that allows them to hang a little bit longer than traditional lights. You’ll get that enthralling atmosphere that will enhance the experience as well as the ambiance of your outside patio.
Durability
If you purchase this product, you’ll get a socket to help you hang, and several bulbs made to be energy efficient. You’ll also get a strong stand comprised out of rubber. The product is durable, but if anything goes wrong with it, you’ll get a warranty with it. So, you’ll be able to get assistance from the company with repairs.
Sources
- , The 6 Best Outdoor String Lights, Buying Guide
- , The best LED string lights you can buy, Buying Guide
