9 Best Edison Bulb String Lights of 2026
Nine LED Edison bulb string lights for patios compared on length, bulb shape (S14 or ST38), color temperature, dimming, weather rating and link limits, with who should skip each.
By Ethan Cole
Updated October 23, 2026
Edison bulb string lights are the bistro and cafe lights you see strung over patios: a heavy cord with a socket every 2 to 3 ft and a vintage-shaped bulb in each one. The bulb shapes have names. S14 is the classic straight-sided cafe bulb, ST38 (also sold as ST40) is the taller teardrop with a visible filament look. Today almost all are LED in a shatterproof plastic shell, which is what every set in this list uses.
For round globe bulbs, see globe string lights; for very long runs, see long outdoor string lights; for no wiring at all, see solar string lights. Every type is compared in the best outdoor string lights, and all are in Outdoor LED String Lights. Lengths, ratings and run limits are the makers’ own figures.
All Products Compared
| Product | Best For | Length / Bulbs | Bulb | Dimming / Control | Weather Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Banord Outdoor String Lights, 96 ft (2 x 48 ft) | Best Overall | 96 ft / 30 | S14, 2W LED, 2700K | Banord dimmer (sold separately) | Sealed sockets, no IP rating |
| Lakumu Outdoor String Lights, 96 ft (2 x 48 ft) | Best Built | 96 ft / 30 + 3 spares | S14 LED, 2700K | Most dimmers (not included) | IP65 |
| Brightech Ambience Pro LED, 48 ft | Best Known Brand | 48 ft / 15 | Vintage Edison, 2W LED, 2500K | Dimmable (dimmer not included) | Weatherproof, no IP rating |
| VIPAR Outdoor String Lights, 100 ft | Best ST38 Long Strand | 100 ft / 50 + 2 | ST38 LED, E12, 2700K | Most dimmers (not included) | IPX5 |
| addlon 100 ft Outdoor String Lights with Remote | Best with Remote | 100 ft (2 x 50) / 30 | ST38 LED, 2700K | Remote: dimmer, modes, timer | Weather resistant, no IP rating |
| Svater Outdoor String Lights, 105 ft | Best S14 Long Strand | 105 ft / 33 + 2 | S14 LED, 1W, 2700K | Most dimmers (not included) | IP65 |
| Achin Outdoor String Lights, 150 ft (2 x 75 ft) | Warmest Light (2200K) | 150 ft / 46 + spares | S14 LED, 1W, 2200K | Most dimmers (not included) | IP65 |
| Brightever LED Outdoor String Lights, 100 ft, 24V | Best Low Voltage | 100 ft / 30 + 2 | ST38 LED, 2700K | Remote: stepless dimming, modes, timer | Listed as waterproof, no IP rating |
| MGVIH Outdoor String Lights, 100 ft | Remote with IP65 | 100 ft / 37 + 2 | ST38 LED, E12, 2700K | Remote: 4 levels, modes, timer | IP65 |
| Award | Product | WikiHomeLED Score About WikiHomeLED ScoreThe WikiHomeLED Score is our own rating from 0 to 10, calculated the same way for every product from Amazon buyer ratings, adjusted for how many ratings each product has. It is never influenced by manufacturers, retailers, or affiliate commissions. Learn more › | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall |
Banord Outdoor String Lights 96ft with 30 S14 LED
|
8.9/10 | $79.99 | Buy |
| Best Premium |
Lakumu 96 ft Heavy Duty Outdoor String Lights
|
8.8/10 | $69.89 | Buy |
| Best Value |
Brightech Ambience Pro 48 ft LED Outdoor String
|
8.8/10 | $44.99 | Buy |
VIPAR Outdoor String Lights,100FT LED Patio Lights
|
8.6/10 | $32.99 | Buy | |
| Best Budget |
addlon 100FT Outdoor String Lights ST38 LED
|
8.5/10 | $26.99 | Buy |
Svater 105 ft Outdoor String Lights
|
8.5/10 | $62.99 | Buy | |
Achin 150Ft S14 LED String Lights
|
8.3/10 | $79.99 | Buy | |
Brightever 100FT 30-LED Outdoor String Lights
|
8.2/10 | $23.39 | Buy | |
MGVIH CMC-O37XA 100ft LED String Lights
|
8.0/10 | $22.99 | Buy |
Banord Outdoor String Lights 96ft with 30 S14 LED
Spanning 96 feet with 30 warm white LED bulbs, these Banord string lights offer a commercial-grade solution for outdoor lighting. The shatterproof plastic bulbs and waterproof sockets ensure durability through all seasons, while dimming via the Banord app (with a separate dimmer) lets you set the perfect mood. Ideal for patios, gardens, and gatherings, they combine heavy-duty construction with easy connectability.
Pros
- Dimmable with optional Banord dimmer
- Shatterproof plastic bulbs
- Waterproof for all-weather use
- Connectable up to multiple sets
- Commercial grade heavy duty construction
Cons
- Requires separate Banord dimmer for dimming
- Only warm white color (2700K)
- App control requires smartphone
Lakumu 96 ft Heavy Duty Outdoor String Lights
Spanning 96 feet with 30 shatterproof plastic bulbs, this Lakumu string light set is built for large outdoor areas. Its IP65 weatherproofing and heavy-duty cable withstand rain and wind, while the dimmable warm white LEDs create a cozy ambiance. Ideal for patios, gardens, and commercial settings like cafes or wedding decorations.
Pros
- IP65 weatherproof rating
- Shatterproof plastic bulbs
- Dimmable with standard dimmers
- Linkable for large coverage
- Cable withstands 50 MPH winds
Cons
- Dimmer not included
- Only warm white (2700K) color
- Requires outdoor power outlet
Brightech Ambience Pro 48 ft LED Outdoor String
Brightech's Ambience Pro is a 48-foot outdoor string light set with 15 dimmable 2W LED Edison bulbs spaced 3 feet apart. The WeatherTite rubberized cord is IP65 rated and built to withstand wind, rain and snow, so it can stay up year-round. Its warm 2500K glow makes it a strong fit for patios, pergolas, gazebos and cafe-style backyard settings.
Pros
- Commercial-grade WeatherTite rubberized cord
- IP65 rated and UL listed core
- Warm 2500K Edison-style glow
- Dimmable with a separate dimmer
- Up to 20 strands connectable
Cons
- Dimmer sold separately
- Unlit gap where strands connect
- No spare bulb or end plug included
VIPAR Outdoor String Lights,100FT LED Patio Lights
Enhanced Durability: These 100ft outdoor lights come with 50 shatterproof bulbs and 2 spares, connectable up to 15 strands. Built for lasting performance, its commercial-grade heavy-duty wiring prevents voltage drop for steady brightness IPX5 Waterproof: With sealed sockets and durable construction, these string lights withstand rain, snow, and wind for year-round outdoor use. ETL certified bulbs offer verified protection and peace of mind for both residential and commercial applications Easy Installation: Featuring ST38 edison bulbs with E12 bases, these string lights for outside emit a comfortable warm white glow (2700K), perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere. Universal E12 connectors work with most dimmers (dimmers not included)
addlon 100FT Outdoor String Lights ST38 LED
A 100-foot, 30-bulb outdoor string light set with a retro Edison look, dimmable remote control, and IP65 weather resistance. It is a budget-friendly choice for patios, decks, and backyards, with timer modes and expandability up to 200 feet. It suits anyone wanting a long, connectable warm-white string without glass breakage concerns.
Pros
- IP65-rated for outdoor weather resistance
- Shatter-resistant PET plastic bulbs
- Remote dimming, timer, and lighting modes
- Connectable to 200 feet total
- Two spare bulbs included
Cons
- Corded electric setup needs a nearby outlet
- Remote range limited to 50 feet
- Warm white only, no color options
Svater 105 ft Outdoor String Lights
Spanning 105 feet, these Svater outdoor string lights provide a warm 2700K glow for large areas. They are IP65 rated and ETL listed for weather resistance, and each bulb works independently. Dimmable with most dimmers, they suit patios, gardens, and commercial settings.
Pros
- 105 ft long coverage
- IP65 weatherproof
- Shatterproof bulbs
- Dimmable
- Individual bulb replacement
Cons
- No remote control included
- Warm white only
- Plastic bulbs may feel less premium
Achin 150Ft S14 LED String Lights
These 150-foot string lights from Achin cover very large outdoor areas with a soft 2200K warm glow. The set includes 50 shatterproof, dimmable LED bulbs and can connect up to 15 strands, making them a practical choice for patios, gazebos, and wedding tents.
Pros
- Long 150-foot length with 50 bulbs covers big spaces.
- 2200K warm white light is soft and cozy, not harsh.
- IP65 weatherproof rating for year-round outdoor use.
- Bulbs are shatterproof plastic, safer than glass.
- Dimmable with most external dimmers for adjustable ambiance.
Cons
- Some users reported early bulb failures, though seller support resolved issues.
- Dimmer not included, requires separate purchase.
- Plastic bulbs may feel less premium than glass alternatives.
Brightever 100FT 30-LED Outdoor String Lights
A durable 100-foot outdoor string light set with 30 ST38 bulbs and a remote that offers dimming, three lighting modes, and a timer. Designed for patios and gatherings, it stands out for its 24V low-voltage safety and energy efficiency, though some users report intermittent flashing in cold weather.
Pros
- Built with heavy-duty wires and reinforced PVC coating for long-term outdoor durability
- Remote control with stepless dimming from 25% to 100% plus 3 lighting modes for versatile ambiance
- 24V low voltage with overload protection reduces risk of electric shock
- Includes 3H and 5H auto-off timer for convenience
Cons
- Bulbs may flash randomly in cold temperatures (around 32°F or below) per user feedback
- Bulbs are spaced 30 inches apart, which may be wider than expected by some buyers
- Only 30 bulbs on a 100-foot string (approximately 3.3 ft per bulb) leaves significant gaps
MGVIH CMC-O37XA 100ft LED String Lights
A 100-foot string of shatterproof ST38 bulbs with a warm 2700K glow, dimmable via remote and rated IP65 for year-round outdoor use. Verified buyers praise the inviting ambiance and easy installation, though some note the wiring feels less durable and a missing remote can occur.
Pros
- Shatterproof PET bulbs resist breakage if dropped
- IP65 waterproof rating withstands rain, snow, and extreme temperatures
- Remote control with 4 brightness levels, 3 modes, and timer (3/5 hour)
- Energy efficient LED reduces electricity use up to 98% vs. incandescent
- Includes 2 spare bulbs and built-in hooks for simple hanging
Cons
- Wiring is thinner than some competing models
- Occasional missing remote control reported in multi-box purchases
- Bulb size (1.5 x 3.2 inches) smaller than typical ST38 string lights
Top 3 Edison Bulb String Lights Reviewed
#1 Banord Outdoor String Lights, 96 ft (2 x 48 ft), 30 S14 LED: Best Overall
Why We Picked It
Banord’s set has the highest WikiHomeLED Score in this list, a 4.7-star average across more than 5,200 Amazon ratings. It comes as two 48 ft strands with 30 shatterproof S14 LED bulbs (2 watts each, per the listing title) at 3 ft spacing, in warm 2700K.
The cord is heavy-duty rubber, ETL listed, and the sockets are fully sealed for year-round outdoor use, per Banord. The strands link end to end, and brightness can be adjusted with Banord’s own dimmer, sold separately.
Key Specifications
- Length: 96 ft as 2 x 48 ft strands, 3 ft spacing (per Banord)
- Bulbs: 30 shatterproof S14 LED, 2W, 2700K
- Cord: heavy-duty rubber, ETL listed
- Sockets: fully sealed
- Dimming: with Banord dimmer (not included)
- Connect: end to end
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Things to Consider
Banord does not publish an IP rating or a maximum number of linked strands; it says only that the sockets are sealed. Keep the plug connection off the ground and use a GFCI outlet.
Best For
Patios, pergolas and decks where you want the classic cafe look over two runs.
Skip It If
Skip it if you want a remote and timer in the box; see the addlon or Brightever sets below.
Check current pricing and availability for the Banord Outdoor String Lights, 96 ft (2 x 48 ft), 30 S14 LED.
#2 Lakumu Outdoor String Lights, 96 ft (2 x 48 ft), 30 S14 LED: Best Built
Why We Picked It
Lakumu’s set has a 4.7-star average across more than 3,000 Amazon ratings and the most detailed build specs here: a 5/16-inch cable that Lakumu rates for winds up to 50 mph, ETL listing, an IP65 weather rating and a parallel circuit so one failed bulb does not darken the rest.
It comes as two 48 ft strands with 15 E26 sockets each, 30 shatterproof S14 LED bulbs and 3 spares. Up to 35 sets can be linked end to end, the highest link limit in this list, and it works with most standard dimmers.
Key Specifications
- Length: 96 ft as 2 x 48 ft strands, 15 E26 sockets each (per Lakumu)
- Bulbs: 30 shatterproof S14 LED plus 3 spares, 2700K
- Cable: 5/16 inch; rated by Lakumu for winds up to 50 mph
- Weather rating: IP65, ETL listed
- Connect: up to 35 sets
- Dimming: compatible with most dimmers (not included)
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Things to Consider
Lakumu notes that each bulb must be screwed in fully for the waterproof seal to work; check them after hanging.
Best For
Large patios and permanent installations where the lights stay up all year.
Skip It If
Skip it if you want remote control; you will need to add a dimmer or smart plug.
Check current pricing and availability for the Lakumu Outdoor String Lights, 96 ft (2 x 48 ft), 30 S14 LED.
#3 Brightech Ambience Pro LED, 48 ft, 15 Edison Bulbs: Best Known Brand
Why We Picked It
The Brightech Ambience Pro is one of the longest-running names in patio lights, and this LED version has a 4.7-star average across more than 2,500 Amazon ratings. It uses 15 vintage Edison-style 2-watt LED bulbs at 3 ft spacing on 48 ft of rubberized heavy-duty cord with a UL listed core.
Brightech says its WeatherTite construction handles winds up to 50 mph, rain and snow, and that up to 20 strands can be linked. The 2500K color is the warmest of the mainstream sets here, closest to old incandescent bistro lights.
Key Specifications
- Length: 48 ft, 3 ft spacing (per Brightech)
- Bulbs: 15 vintage Edison LED, 2W, 2500K
- Cord: rubberized heavy-duty, UL listed core
- Weather: WeatherTite, winds up to 50 mph per Brightech
- Connect: up to 20 strands
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Things to Consider
At 48 ft per strand, a typical patio needs two or three sets. Brightech also sells an incandescent version under the same name; this listing is the LED model.
Best For
Buyers who want an established brand and the warmest light color here.
Skip It If
Skip it if you need long coverage from one box; the Svater or VIPAR sets cover about 100 ft each.
Check current pricing and availability for the Brightech Ambience Pro LED, 48 ft, 15 Edison Bulbs.
How to Choose Edison Bulb String Lights
S14 or ST38
S14 bulbs are straight-sided and give the classic cafe look; they usually use a standard E26 base. ST38 bulbs are taller teardrops with a filament look and often use the smaller E12 base. Check the base before buying spares.
Color Temperature
Most sets here are 2700K, a warm white close to household bulbs. Brightech (2500K) and Achin (2200K) are warmer and look more like candlelight or old incandescent bistro bulbs.
Length, Spacing and Link Limits
Measure each run, including the drop to the outlet. Bulb spacing ranges from about 2 to 3 ft. Link limits range from four strands (addlon) to 35 (Lakumu); low-voltage and remote-controlled sets usually link fewer.
Dimming and Remote
120V sets like Banord, Lakumu, Svater and VIPAR work with a plug-in dimmer that you buy separately. addlon, Brightever and MGVIH include a remote with dimming and a timer.
Hanging Safely
Use a guide wire for long spans so the cord is not carrying its own weight, and attach to solid structure, not gutters. Plug into a GFCI-protected outlet and use outdoor-rated extension cords. Each strand’s maker lists its own connection limit; do not exceed it.
How We Evaluate Edison Bulb String Lights
We did not install these lights. We compared manufacturer specifications and Amazon listing details and ranked the products by the WikiHomeLED Score, which adjusts the Amazon star rating for the number of ratings. To qualify, a set had to use LED Edison-style bulbs (S14, ST38 or similar) on a string sold for outdoor use and reach a minimum rating count on Amazon. Incandescent sets were excluded. The full method is on our How We Review page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Edison string lights stay up all year?
Several sets here are sold for year-round outdoor use, including Banord (sealed sockets), Lakumu and Svater (IP65). Check that bulbs are screwed in tightly, and take the lights down if your area gets ice storms.
How far apart should patio string light poles be?
It depends on the strand. Keep spans short enough that the cord does not sag heavily, and use a guide wire for long spans.
Can I use a dimmer with LED string lights?
Only with sets the maker lists as dimmable, and ideally with the dimmer the maker recommends. Banord sells its own; Lakumu, Svater and VIPAR say they work with most dimmers.
What is the difference between E12 and E26 bases?
E26 is the standard household base; E12 is the smaller candelabra base. Replacement bulbs must match the socket on your strand.
Final Verdict
For most patios, the Banord set is our first pick: top score, two 48 ft strands of S14 bulbs and sealed sockets. If you want the toughest build and the clearest weather rating, the Lakumu set is IP65 with a thick cable and links up to 35 strands. For remote control in the box, the addlon set dims and times every linked strand from one remote, and for the warmest glow, the Achin set runs at 2200K.
About the author
Ethan Cole leads research and editing at WikiHomeLED, comparing LED lighting for the home through manufacturer specs, manuals, safety listings and owner feedback. Every product is scored against the criteria on our How We Review page, and picks are updated when models change.