10 Best Solar String Lights of 2026
Ten solar LED string lights for patios, fences and pergolas compared on lit length, bulb count, panel and USB charging, remote and timer, and weather rating, with honest expectations on brightness and runtime.
By Ethan Cole
Updated October 23, 2026
Solar string lights hang like regular patio lights but charge from a small panel during the day and switch on at dusk, so they work on a fence, pergola or tree far from an outlet. The trade-offs are real: a solar set has fewer and dimmer bulbs than a plug-in strand of the same length, and how long it lights depends on how much sun the panel gets. Several sets here add a USB port so you can top up the battery after cloudy days.
This list covers solar bulb strings (Edison and globe shapes). For thin twinkle wire, see solar fairy lights; for plug-in strands, see Edison bulb string lights. Every type is compared in the best outdoor string lights, all within Outdoor LED String Lights; other solar fixtures are in Solar Outdoor Lights. Runtimes and charge times below are the makers’ claims and will vary with sun and season.
All Products Compared
| Product | Best For | Length / Bulbs | Bulb | Charging / Control | Weather Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brightech Ambience Pro Solar, 27 ft | Best Overall | 27 ft (20 ft lit) / 12 | S14 Edison LED, 1W | Solar; panel switch | WeatherTite, no IP rating |
| Brightown Solar String Lights with Remote, 108 ft | Best Long Solar Set | 108 ft / 50 + 2 | G40 LED, 0.15W, 2700K | Solar 3W panel + USB; remote, timer | IP65 |
| addlon Solar String Lights with Remote, 52 ft | Best Mid-Length with Remote | 52 ft (48 lit) / 16 + 1 | Edison LED, 2700K | Solar + USB; remote, timer | Weather resistant, no IP rating |
| Brightown Solar Globe String Lights, 2 Pack | Best Multicolor | 2 x 36 ft / 120 mini globes | Mini globe LED, multicolor | Solar; 8 modes | IP65 |
| Brightech Ambience Pro Solar, 48 ft | Longer Brightech | 48 ft (42 ft lit) / 15 | Edison LED, 1W, 3000K | Solar; panel switch | WeatherTite, no IP rating |
| addlon Solar String Lights, 54 ft | USB and Solar, 54 ft | 54 ft / 16 + 1 | Edison LED, warm white | Solar + USB; remote, timer | Weather resistant |
| Brightown Solar String Lights, 100 ft | 100 ft Edison Solar | 100 ft / 31 + 2 | Edison LED, 2700K | Solar + USB-C; remote, timer | IP65 |
| Skoiuc 100 ft Solar String Lights, ST38 | Continuous 100 ft ST38 | 100 ft / 30 | ST38 LED, 2700K | Solar + USB-C; remote | IP65 per listing |
| addlon 100 ft Solar String Lights, G40 | Largest Listed Battery | 100 ft / 50 + 4 | G40 LED, 2700K | Solar + USB; remote, timer | Weather resistant |
| Jnaurb Hemp Rope Solar String Lights, 2 Pack | Rustic Look | 2 x 20 ft | Mini bulbs, warm white | Solar; 8 modes | 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 |
Brightech Ambience Pro Solar String Lights 27 ft
|
8.6/10 | $21.99 | Buy |
| Best Premium |
Brightown 108FT Solar String Lights with Remote
|
8.4/10 | $39.99 | Buy |
| Best Budget |
addlon 52FT Solar String Lights Outdoor
|
8.3/10 | $19.99 | Buy |
Brightown 72Ft 120 LED Solar String Lights
|
8.3/10 | $27.99 | Buy | |
Brightech Ambience Pro Solar String Lights (48 ft)
|
8.3/10 | $39.99 | Buy | |
addlon 54FT Solar String Lights Outdoor
|
8.3/10 | $21.99 | Buy | |
| Best Value |
Brightown 100FT Solar String Lights
|
8.3/10 | $34.99 | Buy |
Skoiuc HCP080 100FT Solar String Lights
|
8.1/10 | $32.99 | Buy | |
addlon 100FT Solar String Lights with Remote
|
8.1/10 | $29.99 | Buy | |
Jnaurb 20ft Solar String Lights (2-Pack)
|
8.0/10 | $35.99 | Buy |
Brightech Ambience Pro Solar String Lights 27 ft
These solar-powered string lights from Brightech offer a convenient, outlet-free way to add warm ambiance to patios, pergolas, and gardens. With shatterproof Edison bulbs and WeatherTite technology that withstands wind, rain, and snow, they are built for year-round outdoor use. Ideal for those seeking an easy-to-install, budget-friendly lighting solution with a classic bistro look.
Pros
- Solar powered for flexible placement
- Weather resistant to wind, rain, snow
- Shatterproof plastic bulbs
- Long LED lifespan of 20,000 hours
- Easy installation with included stake and clip
Cons
- Solar panel lifespan about 2.5 years
- Full charge requires direct sunlight
- Only 12 bulbs on 27 ft string
Brightown 108FT Solar String Lights with Remote
A 108-foot solar string light set with 52 warm white G40 LEDs, a remote control, and both solar and USB charging. It offers three lighting modes and adjustable brightness, making it a versatile choice for patios, gardens, and outdoor events. The IP65 weatherproof rating and shatterproof bulbs add durability.
Pros
- Dual charging via solar panel and USB Type-C port for flexible use indoors or on cloudy days.
- Remote control allows dimming (25% to 100%) and timer settings (6H/8H) for customized ambiance.
- IP65 waterproof and shatterproof bulbs withstand rain, wind, and heat.
- Includes 55 cable ties, a mounting clip, and 2 spare bulbs for easy setup and maintenance.
- Auto on/off with dusk-to-dawn sensor saves energy and hassle.
Cons
- String lights cannot be connected to extend length beyond 108 feet.
- Solar panel requires direct sunlight for optimal charging; performance may drop in shaded areas.
- Some users report the light sensor can be overly sensitive, causing lights to turn on in dim indoor conditions.
addlon 52FT Solar String Lights Outdoor
These addlon solar string lights combine remote control dimming and timer with dual solar/USB charging for flexible outdoor lighting. The shatterproof PET plastic and IP65 weather resistance make them suitable for year-round use on patios, gardens, and campsites. They are a budget-friendly choice for creating warm ambient glow without the need for nearby outlets.
Pros
- Remote control with dimming and timer
- Dual solar and USB charging
- Shatterproof and weather resistant
- Easy setup with included accessories
- Warm white light (2700K)
Cons
- Not bright enough for task lighting
- Solar charging depends on weather
- Plastic bulbs may feel less premium
Brightown 72Ft 120 LED Solar String Lights
Brightown's 72-foot solar string lights bring multicolor ambiance to patios and gardens with 120 LEDs and 8 lighting modes. The IP65-rated design withstands rain and snow, while the auto on/off sensor and memory chip simplify daily use. A budget-friendly choice for outdoor decoration.
Pros
- Solar powered with auto on/off
- 8 lighting modes for variety
- Memory function remembers last setting
- IP65 waterproof for outdoor use
- 72ft total length covers large areas
Cons
- Requires direct sunlight for charging
- Plastic globe construction
- No warm white color option
Brightech Ambience Pro Solar String Lights (48 ft)
Solar-powered and outlet-free, this 48-foot Brightech string light set brings 15 Edison-style LED bulbs to porches, patios and pergolas. The shatterproof, weather-resistant design and automatic dusk-to-dawn sensor make it a low-fuss choice for year-round outdoor use.
Pros
- Solar powered, no outlet needed
- Dusk-to-dawn auto on/off
- IP65-rated, shatterproof plastic bulbs
- 48 foot length, 15 Edison bulbs
- LED bulbs rated for 20,000 hours
Cons
- Needs direct sun for a full charge
- About 5 to 6 hours of light per charge
- Single soft white color temperature
addlon 54FT Solar String Lights Outdoor
For outdoor spaces without easy access to an outlet, these 54-foot solar string lights from addlon provide a flexible lighting solution. They include a remote control for adjusting brightness and setting timers, and the solar panel can be supplemented with USB charging for cloudy days. With a runtime of up to 20+ hours on a full charge, they are a practical choice for evening ambiance.
Pros
- Remote control with timer and brightness settings
- Solar and USB dual charging options
- Up to 20+ hours runtime on full charge
- Weather-resistant and rust-resistant
Cons
- Initial charge required via USB before first use
- Solar charging depends on sunlight availability
Brightown 100FT Solar String Lights
This 100-foot solar string light set covers large patios, gardens, or pergolas without needing an outlet. It features 31+2 shatterproof LED bulbs with a warm 2700K glow, a remote control for brightness and timer adjustments, and dual charging (solar and USB) for reliable operation even on cloudy days. With an IP65 weather rating and dusk-to-dawn sensor, it's a durable, low-maintenance option for year-round outdoor lighting.
Pros
- 100-foot length covers large outdoor areas without needing an outlet
- Shatterproof PET bulbs with IP65 rating withstand rain, snow, and wind
- Remote control offers 4 brightness levels and 2 timer settings
- Dual charging (solar and USB) ensures power even on cloudy days
- Dusk-to-dawn sensor enables automatic on/off operation
Cons
- Solar panel performance depends on direct sunlight; USB charging required for cloudy periods
Skoiuc HCP080 100FT Solar String Lights
This 100-foot solar string light set from Skoiuc covers large patios, fences, and campsites in one continuous run. It features dual charging (solar plus USB-C backup) and a dusk-to-dawn sensor for hands-free operation. The shatterproof ST38 bulbs and IP65 waterproofing make it a durable choice for year-round outdoor use.
Pros
- Extra-long 100-foot continuous strand eliminates the need for multiple connections.
- Dual charging (solar + USB-C) ensures reliability even on cloudy days.
- Dusk-to-dawn sensor and remote control with multiple lighting modes offer convenient operation.
- Shatterproof plastic ST38 bulbs and IP65 rating provide durability for outdoor conditions.
Cons
- Plastic ST38 bulbs may lack the premium look of glass Edison bulbs.
- Fixed warm white color temperature (2700K) with no option for cool or adjustable white.
- Solar charging performance depends on sunlight; USB-C backup requires access to a power outlet.
addlon 100FT Solar String Lights with Remote
This 100-foot solar string light set from addlon covers large outdoor areas with 50 warm white G40 bulbs. Its standout feature is the 5000mAh battery that can run up to 28 hours and recharges via USB when sunlight is scarce. The included remote offers dimming, timer, and mode control, making it a versatile choice for patios, pergolas, and parties.
Pros
- Long battery life up to 28 hours with 5000mAh capacity
- USB backup charging for cloudy days
- Remote control with brightness, timer, and lighting modes
- Shatterproof LED bulbs and IP65 waterproof rating
- Includes 4 spare bulbs and 1-year replacement service
Cons
- Solar panel must be positioned for direct sunlight to maximize charging
Jnaurb 20ft Solar String Lights (2-Pack)
A set of two 20-foot hemp-rope string lights with 16 shatterproof bulbs each, powered by solar panels for automatic dusk-to-dawn operation. The warm white glow and 8 lighting modes (including twinkle and fade) make it easy to create a cozy bistro or party atmosphere on patios, decks, or balconies. Verified buyers praise the brightness and reliability, though initial setup may require adjusting the solar panel for consistent charging.
Pros
- Delivers bright, warm white light with 320 LEDs total across two strings
- 8 lighting modes with memory function remember your last setting
- Weatherproof IP65 design with shatterproof plastic bulbs
- Solar powered and auto on/off eliminates wiring and electricity costs
- Rustic hemp rope adds vintage charm to outdoor spaces
Cons
- Solar panel needs direct sunlight for 6-8 hours to fully charge; performance drops in shade
- Some users report lights not turning on initially until the solar panel is repositioned
Top 3 Solar String Lights Reviewed
#1 Brightech Ambience Pro Solar String Lights, 27 ft, 12 Bulbs: Best Overall
Why We Picked It
Brightech’s solar Ambience Pro has the highest WikiHomeLED Score in this list and by far the most ratings, more than 26,000 on Amazon at a 4.5-star average. It is a compact set: 12 shatterproof S14 Edison-style LED bulbs at 20-inch spacing over a 20 ft lit section, with 6 ft of lead from the panel to the first bulb.
The panel is detachable, with an on/off switch on the back, and mounts with the included stake or clip. Brightech says the cord withstands winds up to 50 mph, the bulbs handle heat up to 122°F, and it backs solar purchases with a two-year limited warranty, the longest here.
Key Specifications
- Length: 27 ft total, 20 ft lit, 20 in spacing, 6 ft panel lead (per Brightech)
- Bulbs: 12 shatterproof S14 LED, 1W, soft white
- Panel: detachable, stake or clip, on/off switch
- Weather: WeatherTite cord, winds up to 50 mph per Brightech
- Warranty: 2-year limited
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Things to Consider
At 20 ft lit, it covers a small balcony, a pergola beam or one side of a deck. For larger spaces, Brightech’s 48 ft solar set or the 100 ft Brightown below cover more.
Best For
Balconies, small patios and pergola beams with good sun.
Skip It If
Skip it if you need long coverage or a backup way to charge on cloudy days.
Check current pricing and availability for the Brightech Ambience Pro Solar String Lights, 27 ft, 12 Bulbs.
#2 Brightown Solar String Lights with Remote, 108 ft, 52 G40: Best Long Solar Set
Why We Picked It
Brightown’s 108 ft set has more than 10,000 Amazon ratings at a 4.4-star average and covers a large patio from one panel: 50 G40 globe bulbs plus 2 spares at 2 ft spacing, 2700K warm white.
A remote sets brightness (25 to 100%), a 6 or 8-hour timer and three modes, and the lights switch on at dusk and off at dawn. The 3-watt panel tilts 180°, and a USB port lets you charge from a power bank or adapter on cloudy days. Brightown claims more than 36 hours of continuous light and rates the set IP65.
Key Specifications
- Length: 108 ft, 2 ft spacing (per Brightown)
- Bulbs: 50 G40 LED plus 2 spares, 0.15W each, E12, 2700K
- Panel: 3W, 180° adjustable
- Charging: solar and USB
- Control: remote with 4 brightness levels, 6/8-hour timer, 3 modes; dusk to dawn
- Weather rating: IP65
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Things to Consider
The bulbs are rated at 0.15 watt each, far below the 1 watt typical of plug-in globes, so expect a soft glow rather than light to eat by.
Best For
Large patios, long fences and campsites where there is no outlet.
Skip It If
Skip it if you want plug-in-level brightness; solar strings cannot match it.
Check current pricing and availability for the Brightown Solar String Lights with Remote, 108 ft, 52 G40.
#3 addlon Solar String Lights with Remote, 52 ft: Best Mid-Length with Remote
Why We Picked It
addlon’s 52 ft set has more than 13,700 Amazon ratings at a 4.3-star average. It has 16 sockets with shatterproof Edison-style LED bulbs (plus a spare) over 48 ft of lit length, a common size for a patio or deck edge.
The remote offers three brightness levels, three modes and a 2, 4, 6 or 8-hour timer. addlon says 8 hours of sun charges it fully and USB charging takes 4 hours, and recommends charging by USB before first use and during long cloudy spells.
Key Specifications
- Length: 52 ft (48 ft lit plus 4 ft lead), 16 sockets (per addlon)
- Bulbs: 17 shatterproof Edison LED including 1 spare, 2700K
- Charging: solar (about 8 hours of sun) or USB (about 4 hours), per maker
- Control: remote with 3 brightness levels, 3 modes, 2/4/6/8-hour timer
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
|
|
Things to Consider
addlon says to charge by USB when the lights arrive and to detach the panel for USB charging after cloudy days.
Best For
Patios and decks of medium size where you want a remote and timer.
Skip It If
Skip it if you need a published weather rating; the Brightown sets are IP65.
Check current pricing and availability for the addlon Solar String Lights with Remote, 52 ft.
How to Choose Solar String Lights
Sun at the Panel
Everything depends on where the panel sits. Makers here quote 7 to 8 hours of sun for a full charge. A panel under trees, on a north-facing wall or in winter sun will not reach the claimed runtimes. Detachable panels with a long lead (Brightech, Brightown) let you place the panel in sun and the lights in shade.
USB Backup Charging
addlon, Brightown and Skoiuc sets add USB or USB-C charging, useful after a run of cloudy days or for camping. Brightech’s sets are solar only.
Brightness Expectations
Solar bulbs draw very little power (Brightown lists 0.15W per bulb on its 108 ft set), so they glow rather than light a table. Use them for atmosphere, and plug-in strands where you need to see.
Length and Bulb Count
Lit length and bulb count vary widely: Brightech’s 27 ft set has 12 bulbs over 20 ft, Brightown’s 108 ft set has 50. Compare the lit length, not the total including the panel lead.
Remote and Timer
A timer stops the lights from draining the battery after midnight, which helps them last into the next evening. Most sets here include a remote with a timer; the Brightech sets run dusk to dawn with an on/off switch only.
How We Evaluate Solar String Lights
We did not install these lights or measure their runtime. 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; among equal scores we put the most distinct options in the top three. To qualify, a set had to be a solar-powered LED bulb string sold for outdoor use and reach a minimum rating count on Amazon. Runtime and charge times are the makers’ claims. The full method is on our How We Review page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do solar string lights stay on?
Makers here claim anywhere from about 18 to 36 hours on a full charge, but a full charge needs about 7 to 8 hours of direct sun. In practice, expect shorter runtimes in winter, in shade and after cloudy days.
Do solar string lights work in winter?
Yes, but with less sun they charge less. Sets with USB charging can be topped up indoors. Point the panel south and clear snow off it.
Can I put the solar panel in the sun and the lights in the shade?
Yes, if the panel is detachable with a lead long enough, as on the Brightech and Brightown sets. Brightech’s 27 ft set has 6 ft between the panel and the first bulb.
Why did my solar lights stop working?
Most often the panel switch is off, the panel is shaded, or the battery is depleted after cloudy days. Several makers here recommend a first charge by USB or a full day of sun with the switch on.
Final Verdict
For a balcony or small patio, the Brightech Ambience Pro solar set is our first pick: top score, the largest rating base here and a two-year warranty, though it lights only 20 ft. For a large space, the Brightown 108 ft set covers five times as much with a remote, timer and USB backup, at a softer brightness. The addlon 52 ft set is a solid middle option with a remote and USB charging.
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.