Choosing the right outdoor patio string lights can make your backyard cozy and inviting. Whether you're hosting a party, having a quiet evening, or just want to add some charm, the right lights can set the perfect mood. This guide will help you pick the best options for your outdoor space.
Key Takeaways
- Brightown LED Outdoor String Lights offer great overall performance and durability.
- Lemontec Commercial Grade Outdoor String Lights are highly weather-resistant and bright.
- Enbrighten Color-Changing Vintage String Lights add a fun and colorful touch to any space.
- LampLust Mini Lantern String Lights provide a unique and charming lantern look.
- Twinkle Star 300 LED 99 Ft. Copper Wire String Lights are perfect for a fairy light effect.
Brightown LED Outdoor String Lights
For a classic cafe or bistro lighting look, choose a strand of globe string lights. These outdoor string lights from Brightown not only look stylish but are also a durable and energy-saving option.
The 50-foot strand features 50 plastic LED string lights to provide a shatterproof and low-cost outdoor lighting option. Each bulb uses only 1 watt of energy for beautiful outdoor lighting without a huge electric bill.
Each G40 bulb provides 40 lumens of light with a 2,200K color temperature for a warm wash of light. Users can connect up to seven of these waterproof strands to create a range of pretty outdoor lighting layouts, ideal for outdoor events or entertaining at home.
This is the second Brightown pick that made it into our lineup. The difference between this set and the Best Overall set is that these are made with shatterproof LED globe lights rather than incandescent glass bulbs. As such, they’re well suited for display even in harsh winds and weather. Dropping the string of lights on the concrete from head height didn’t faze them—no cracks and just one tiny scuff that might have already been there.
The acrylic globe lights are as clear as glass, and the LED filaments emit a warm, goldish-yellow luminosity. Like the other Brightown set, these string lights are dimmable—we connected them to a dimmer cord and took them down to barely a glow. Plus, they come with gutter clips for easy hanging on the edge of a rain gutter, cable, wire, or string.
Lemontec Commercial Grade Outdoor String Lights
The Lemontec Commercial Grade Outdoor String Lights are a top choice for those seeking durable and bright outdoor lighting. These lights feature 15 incandescent bulbs, each 11 watts, providing ample illumination for any outdoor space. The string is 48 feet long and can be connected to additional sets for even more light.
Key Features
- Bulb Type: Incandescent
- Number of Sockets: 15
- String Length: 48 feet
- Connectable: Yes
Pros
- Bright 11-watt bulbs offer excellent lighting
- Heavy-duty cord ensures long-lasting use
- Expandable for larger areas
Cons
- Widely spaced sockets may not suit everyone's taste
- Requires hooks or nails for hanging
- Glass bulbs are not shatterproof
These weather-resistant string lights are designed to withstand various weather conditions, making them perfect for year-round use. The heavy-duty rubber cord is flexible enough to wrap around narrow railings or tree branches, providing versatile installation options. While the widely spaced sockets might not appeal to everyone, the overall durability and brightness make these lights a solid choice for any outdoor setting.
Enbrighten Color-Changing Vintage String Lights
The Enbrighten Color-Changing Vintage String Lights are a fantastic choice for those looking to add a splash of color to their outdoor spaces. These lights come with 16 different color options and can create up to 120 unique color combinations, making them perfect for any season or holiday.
Product Specifications
- Bulb Type: LED
- Number of Sockets: 24
- String Length: 48 feet
- Connectable: Yes
Pros
- Solid acrylic LED bulbs provide ample light
- Impact-resistant construction withstands heavy-duty use and weather
- Customizable for different ambiences; dimmable by remote
- Heavy-duty cord withstands abrasions
Cons
- Hooks required for hanging are not included
Enhance the mood for any season or holiday with this set of color-changing string lights. The Enbrighten string lights have 16 color choices that create up to 120 possible combinations, adding a pop of color to any outdoor space.
The 48-foot weatherproof strand features 24 Edison-style bulbs. Each impact-resistant acrylic bulb uses only 1 watt of power and produces a warm glow. The included remote allows users to switch among single solid colors, two-color combinations, and various preset color modes for festivities like Christmas and Saint Patrick’s Day.
LampLust Mini Lantern String Lights
The LampLust Mini Lantern String Lights are a charming addition to any outdoor space. These lights are designed to bring a delicate, paper-lantern look to your patio or garden. Each string is 10.5 feet long and features 12 incandescent bulbs, each surrounded by a white lantern. The lightweight design makes them easy to install in most places.
Key Features
- Power Source: Plug-in
- Length: 10.5 feet
- Total Lights: 12
- Light Source Type: Incandescent
- Wattage: 0.84/bulb
- Connectable: Up to 25 strands
Pros
- Delicate, paper-lantern look
- Lightweight design is easy to install
- Casts a soft, cool light suitable for most spaces
Cons
- Short string offers limited design options
- No clips—must be taped or tied up
These lights are perfect for those who want to add a touch of whimsy to their outdoor decor. The nylon stocking-like cover over the wire frame ensures durability, making them suitable for extended outdoor use. However, the short length means you might need multiple strands to cover larger areas.
Twinkle Star 300 LED 99 Ft. Copper Wire String Lights
The Twinkle Star 300 LED 99 Ft. Copper Wire String Lights are perfect for adding a magical touch to your outdoor space. These fairy lights are designed to create a warm ambiance, making them an excellent choice for gardens or patios.
Product Specs
- Bulb type: LED
- Number of bulbs: 300
- String length: 99 feet
- Connectable: No
Pros
- Controlled by remote; easy to adjust for different moods
- Battery operated; can be used anywhere and easy to install
- Creates a uniquely stunning effect unlike other string lights
Cons
- Copper wires are delicate and can tangle easily
- Batteries not included; requires 6 AA batteries to operate
The long strand includes 300 tiny LED string lights on a copper wire. The copper wiring can be wrapped around trees, bushes, and columns, or strung along walls and ceilings, but we obtained the best effect by concentrating them in a small space.
These lights are water-resistant, so they can handle a bit of mist or light rain. However, the remote has eight lighting options, and some of the flashing ones can be a bit annoying. The slow on/off fading effects and solid illumination are the best options for a cozy atmosphere.
Brightown Solar G40 LED String Lights
The Brightown Solar G40 LED String Lights are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their outdoor space. These lights are not only stylish but also durable and energy-efficient. Each G40 bulb provides a warm, golden light that creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for any gathering.
Key Features
- Bulb Type: LED
- Number of Sockets: 50
- String Length: 50 feet
- Connectable: Yes
Pros
- Clear, shatterproof acrylic globes withstand weather and long-term use
- Warm golden light creates a welcoming glow
- Compatible with a dimmer, ideal for setting the mood
- Comes with 2 extra bulbs for quick replacement
Cons
- Cord tangles easily, making it difficult to hang neatly
These lights are a durable and energy-saving option, perfect for enhancing gardens and patios. They offer easy installation and weather resistance, making them ideal for any outdoor setting.
Brightech Ambience Pro Solar Outdoor String Lights
The Brightech Ambience Pro Solar Outdoor String Lights are a top choice for those seeking a blend of durability and brightness. These lights are solar-powered, meaning you don't need batteries or an electrical outlet to use them. The 27-foot strand includes 12 shatterproof LED bulbs, each emitting a warm 3,000K light.
Key Features
- Weatherproof and Shatterproof: These lights can withstand rain, snow, heat, and winds up to 50 miles per hour.
- Long-lasting Illumination: A full solar charge provides up to 10 hours of light.
- Easy Installation: The solar panel can be installed anywhere with the included stake or clip.
Pros
- No need for batteries or an outlet
- Very bright compared to similar options
- Attractive Edison-shape bulbs
Cons
- Only 12 bulbs, which may not cover large areas
- No clips for attaching
These lights are perfect for creating a cozy glow in your outdoor space, even in harsh weather conditions. They are one of our favorites for their combination of brightness and durability.
Banord 102 Ft. Outdoor String Lights
The Banord 102 Ft. Outdoor String Lights are perfect for large spaces like backyards or big events. These lights are 102 feet long and come with 34 S14 Edison-style bulbs that give off a warm, golden light. The bulbs are dimmable, so you can adjust the brightness to fit the mood.
Product Specs
- Bulb type: LED
- Number of sockets: 34
- String length: 102 feet
- Connectable: Yes
Pros
- Produces a warm, golden light with dimmable bulbs for ample adjusting
- Shatterproof and waterproof for long-lasting use
- Cord comes with replaceable fuse and a spare bulb
Cons
- No clips for attaching; installation could be easier
With a waterproof and weather-resistant design, these sturdy outdoor string lights are suitable for year-round use. You can connect up to 12 strands if you need more length to create a striking lighting layout.
Feit Electric Heavy-Duty Indoor Outdoor String Lights
The Feit Electric Heavy-Duty Indoor Outdoor String Lights are a top choice for those seeking durability and performance. These lights are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, making them perfect for any outdoor setting.
Key Features
- Heavy-duty rubber cord: The cord is thick and flexible, allowing it to wrap around narrow railings or tree branches easily.
- Edison-style bulbs: These bulbs provide a bright, warm glow that enhances the ambiance of any space.
- Connectable: You can connect multiple sets to cover larger areas.
- Dimmable: The lights can be dimmed to create a soft, soothing light.
Pros
- Durable and weather-resistant
- Bright, warm light
- Flexible installation options
- Includes two extra bulbs
Cons
- Wide spacing between sockets
- No clips for hanging
The Feit Electric String Lights are ideal for creating the perfect ambiance for outdoor events like weddings. Their durability and bright light make them a reliable choice for any occasion.
OxyLED 2-Pack Battery-Operated LED String Lights
The OxyLED 2-Pack Battery-Operated LED String Lights are a versatile and convenient option for enhancing your outdoor spaces. Each pack includes two strands, each measuring 49 feet in length and featuring 100 LED mini lights. These lights are perfect for small apartment balconies or spacious backyards.
Key Features
- Battery Operated: No need for an outlet; runs on six AA batteries (three per strand, not included).
- Multiple Lighting Modes: Choose from eight different lighting modes, including steady lighting, slow fade, and twinkle mode.
- Durable Design: The bulbs are encased in durable plastic globes that mimic white frosted glass.
- Remote Control and Timer: Easily adjust settings with the included remote control and timer.
Pros
- Soft, white light creates a bright ambient glow.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Waterproof and durable, perfect for outdoor use.
Cons
- Does not come with clips for hanging.
- Not bright enough to illuminate a large area.
These lights are better suited as groupings to create a pleasing effect rather than for tasks like reading late at night. They are ideal for adding charm and sophistication to your outdoor spaces.
Brighten up your home with the OxyLED 2-Pack Battery-Operated LED String Lights! These lights are perfect for any room, adding a warm and cozy glow. Easy to use and battery-operated, they are ideal for decorating without the hassle of wires. Don't miss out on this great addition to your home decor. Visit our website to grab yours now!
Conclusion
Choosing the best outdoor patio string lights can truly transform your outdoor space into a cozy and inviting area. Whether you're hosting a party, enjoying a quiet evening, or simply adding some charm to your backyard, the right string lights make all the difference. Remember to consider factors like power source, bulb type, and weather resistance to find the perfect set for your needs. With so many options available, you're sure to find lights that fit your style and create the perfect ambiance. So go ahead, light up your patio and enjoy the magic of outdoor string lights all year round.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of light color is ideal for outdoor spaces?
White light is the best for outdoor areas because it resembles natural light. Warm white lights have a cozy yellow tint, making them popular for outdoor settings. Colorful bulbs like the Enbrighten LED Color Changing String Lights add a decorative touch and can be fun for different seasons and holidays.
Which outdoor string lights are the brightest?
Lemontec Commercial Grade Outdoor String Lights are among the brightest, featuring fifteen 11-watt incandescent bulbs. You can also connect additional sets for even more brightness.
Can outdoor string lights be left outside all year?
Yes, some string lights are weather-resistant and can be left outside all year. Always check the specifications to ensure they can handle different weather conditions.
How do you hang string lights on a patio?
The easiest way is to use existing fixtures or wrap the lights around columns and railings. If needed, you can also use heavy-duty sticky hooks, metal hooks, or nails to create hanging points.
What should I consider when choosing outdoor string lights?
Think about your space and power options. Decide if you need an extension cord or if a solar-powered or battery-powered set would work better. Also, consider the number of strands you'll need for the desired effect and any accessories like poles or clips for hanging.
Are LED bulbs better than incandescent bulbs for outdoor string lights?
Yes, LED bulbs are more energy-efficient and last longer than incandescent bulbs. Although they cost more upfront, they are a better long-term investment and are also more durable.
