Outdoor solar lights have become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to illuminate gardens, pathways, driveways and other outdoor areas without the need to run electrical wiring. Choosing the right solar lights for your needs can seem overwhelming with all the different brands and models on the market. This article will examine some of the top solar light brands and provide an overview of what to look for when selecting outdoor solar lighting.
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Factors to Consider When Choosing Solar Lights
There are several key factors to take into account when shopping for the best solar lights for your unique needs:
- Brightness – How much light do you need? Look at lumens to determine brightness.
- Durability – Consider weather resistance and construction materials if lights will be exposed to elements.
- Size – Choose appropriately sized lights for intended use, such as pathway lighting vs. security lighting.
- Style – Select solar lights that fit your outdoor décor – modern, rustic, etc.
- Battery performance – Higher quality batteries last longer and recharge efficiently.
- Sensor options – Some solar lights have motion sensors or adjustable timers.
- Cost – Prices range considerably so set a budget and look for value.
Keep these factors in mind as we review some of the top solar lighting brands on the market.
Top 6 Solar Outdoor Lighting Brands
Brightown
Brightown is a leading manufacturer of outdoor solar lighting. They offer a wide selection of solar powered lights including pathway lights, flood lights, spot lights, string lights and more.
Some key features of Brightown solar lights:
- High quality mono-crystalline solar panels for efficiency.
- Durable polyethylene and aluminum housing.
- Waterproof IP65 rating.
- Wide range of styles including modern, rustic, and decorative.
- Bright LED bulbs last up to 20,000 hours.
- 1-2 year warranties.
- Competitively priced.
Brightown is a good option for those seeking an affordable range of solar lighting to meet different outdoor needs.
Moonrays
Moonrays focuses on creating stylish solar lights known for their unique and decorative designs. They offer pathway markers, spot lights, post caps, step lights, and more with handcrafted metalwork and art glass accents.
Key features of Moonrays solar lights:
- Attractive designs from metals, glass, acrylic.
- Weather resistant for outdoor use.
- LED bulbs create a warm, pleasant light.
- Some styles have adjustable angles and heights.
- Prices are moderate to high.
Moonrays are a great choice for adding elegance and flair with creatively designed solar lighting.
Hampton Bay
Hampton Bay offers a variety of affordable solar lighting options including pathway lights, spotlights, post lights, lanterns and more. As Home Depot’s house brand, they are widely available.
Key features of Hampton Bay solar lighting:
- Low to moderate pricing.
- Simple, functional styles.
- Good selection of general purpose solar lights.
- 1 year warranties.
- May not be as durable as more expensive brands.
Hampton Bay is a budget-friendly solar lighting line with lots of variety in stock at Home Depot stores.
URPOWER
Known for its solar-powered landscape lighting, URPOWER offers path lights, step lights, spotlights, wall lights and more. Their products are designed to be bright, waterproof and long-lasting.
Key features of URPOWER solar lighting:
- Durable waterproof designs.
- Bright illumination from LEDs.
- Simple but attractive styles.
- Affordable prices.
- 1 year warranties.
- May not last as long as pricier models.
URPOWER solar lights are a budget-friendly option worth considering for outdoor path or spot illumination.
TaoTronics
TaoTronics solar lights feature sleek contemporary designs perfect for modern outdoor spaces. They manufacture path lights, spot lights, wall lights and more with advanced solar panels and LEDs.
Key features of TaoTronics solar lights:
- Sleek and stylish modern designs.
- Strong solar panels and bright LEDs.
- Durable aluminum and plastic housing.
- 1-2 year warranties.
- Motion sensor options available.
- Higher pricing than basic models.
TaoTronics are ideal for installing solar lighting with a contemporary look and outstanding performance.
Maximus
Known for its premium quality solar lights, Maximus manufactures sturdy die-cast aluminum lights featuring artistic styles and advanced solar technology. Their products include pathway lights, spot lights, wall mounts and well lights.
Key features of Maximus solar lights:
- High-end materials like die-cast aluminum.
- Artistic, luxury designs.
- Advanced mono-crystalline solar panels.
- Lifetime LED bulbs.
- Up to 15 hours of light on one charge.
- Expensive but built to last.
Maximus is the choice for superior construction and top-tier solar technology paired with beautiful design accents.
Comparison of Top Solar Light Brand Specifications
Here is a comparison of key specifications for the top outdoor solar light brands:
| Brand | Materials | Brightness (Lumens) | IP Waterproof Rating | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brightown | Polyethylene, Aluminum | 450-800 | IP65 | 1-2 years |
| Moonrays | Metal, Glass, Acrylic | 200-600 | IP44 | 1-2 years |
| Hampton Bay | Plastic | 300-500 | IP44 | 1 year |
| URPOWER | Plastic | 300-800 | IP65 | 1 year |
| TaoTronics | Aluminum, Plastic | 400-900 | IP65 | 1-2 years |
| Maximus | Die-cast Aluminum | 600-1000 | IP65 | Lifetime |
This table illustrates the range of materials, brightness, waterproofing and warranties offered by the top solar lighting brands.
What to Look for When Buying Solar Lights
Now that we’ve compared some of the top outdoor solar lighting brands, what are the key factors to consider when making a purchase? Here is an overview of what to look for in solar lights:
Solar Panel Strength
A solar light is only as strong as its solar panel. Look for solar panels made from mono-crystalline silicon which is the most efficient type. The panel size should be proportional to the lighting unit.
LED Light Brightness
LED bulb brightness is measured in lumens. Determine how much light you need for the space and look at lumen output. Pathway lights may only need 200-400 lumens, while spotlights used for security require 1500+ lumens.
Battery Life and Type
Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries provide the longest battery life. Lower quality NiCd batteries don’t last as long. Look for at least a 1 year battery life from reputable brands.
Durability and Weatherproofing
Look for aluminum or high-density polyethylene housings with weatherproof ratings of IP44 or IP65. The fixtures should be impact and rust resistant.
Style and Design
Choose solar fixture shapes and styles that fit your outdoor space. Pathlights tend to have simple contemporary styles while spotlights come in a variety of designs.
Warranties
Look for at least 1 year warranties from reputable solar lighting brands. Higher end products may have lifetime warranties.
Extra Features
Some solar lights have handy bonus features like adjustable angles and heights, motion sensors, and timers. Determine if these are useful for your purposes.
Cost
Outdoor solar light prices range from $10-$300+ depending on materials, technology, size, design and features. Set a budget and look for the right balance of quality, durability and appearance.
Conclusion
After reviewing some of the leading solar lighting brands and the key factors in choosing outdoor solar lights, Brightown emerges as an excellent choice for affordable, high quality solar lighting. Their lights offer great performance at moderate prices. URPOWER and Hampton Bay also make reliable solar lights on a budget. For advanced solar technology and contemporary style, TaoTronics is a leader while Maximus provides superior construction paired with artistic flair. Moonrays offer uniquely creative solar lights at moderate prices. Any of these brands can provide excellent outdoor solar lighting when thoughtfully selected to match your specific lighting needs and budget.