Whether it be for aesthetic purposes or simply for protection while walking up your steps at night, having solar step lights covering every step is a necessity. On top of the added protection, these solar lights should also look incredible. There is nothing sleeker than a low spread of protective lighting.
Best Solar Step Lights at a Glance
- XLUX Solar Step Light – Overall Solar Step Light Best
- JACKYLED Stainless Steel Solar Step Lights – Runner Up
- iThird LED Solar Step Lights – Most Energy Efficient Solar Step Light
- GIGALUMI Solar Deck Lights – Best Blending In
- JSOT Outdoor Solar Deck Light – Easiest Installation
- XTF2015 Copper Outdoor Solar Step Lights – Most Aesthetically Pleasing
- SOLMORE Solar Deck Lights – Most Waterproof
- Lightless Solar Lights For Steps or Deck – Best Step Light Waterproof
- GVSHINE Outdoor Solar Step Lights – Brightest Solar Lights
Our Top Solar Step Lights Reviewed
1. XLUX Solar Step Light
No matter the weather, you can always expect quality from the XLUX solar lights. They were built to survive almost any storm and can easily handle many weather conditions. Even the solar panel is built to take a beating with its poly-crystalline silicone build.
We tested the XLUX Solar Step Light light against some of the most strenuous conditions to try to crack it, but it held its own. If you’re looking for a durable, long-lasting solar deck light, then XLUX Solar is the place to be.
One of our favorite features of this device is the auto switch. You can choose your setting, so your light focuses on ease of use or battery preservation. If the switch is in auto, the light will automatically come on once the sun sets. These high-quality solar-powered stair lights will ensure you never miss a step at night again. Switching between manual and auto is quite useful and helps add an air of personalization to this solar-powered light.
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a light that can provide you with soft-warm lighting bright enough to keep your deck safe throughout the night, then this is a fantastic device. They’re easy to install and ensure that you won’t need to replace them soon with their long-lasting lifespan. This might be one of the best solar deck lights in terms of durability and weather resistance. With their 1-year warranty and a money-back guarantee, you don’t have much to lose with this deal.
Pros
- Warm white light is perfect for the night.
- Automatically turn it on at dusk with the auto switch
- Extreme resistance to weather conditions
- 12-month replacement policy
Cons
- No backup battery
2. JACKYLED Solar Step Lights
In 8 hours or less, you’ll get a full charge that lasts up to 10 hours throughout the night.
What the XLUX offers in weather resistance, the JACKYLED Solar Step Light offers battery strength. This Ni-Mh AAA 1000mAh replaceable battery is sure to last you for years and offers one of the quickest charges we tested.
JACKYLED has always been known to make quality, eco-friendly LED solar products, but they’ve outdone themselves with this solar step light.
Not only are you getting a quality solar-powered product, but you’re also receiving resistance to weather conditions and an affinity for solar energy collection. This solar-powered deck light has an IP44 waterproof rating, which lets you know you’ll be protected even in the toughest rain storms. Our favorite feature of this energy-saving light is the brightness it provides. While it’s not a warm white light like the XLUX, it’s more than enough to cover the entire step, so you don’t miss one.
Our Verdict
We love these solar lights and the practicality they offer. Brightness and a long-lasting battery are the clear front runners of these solar step lights, as you’ll be able to see well into the night with even just one of these solar step lights. The solar panels on this light charge it quickly so that you’re ready to go after only 6 hours. There are plenty of mounting options that make this light easy to install. We loved this light and the bright lights it contained and are sure you will too.
Pros
- Powerful Ni-Mh AAA 1000mAh replaceable battery
- Super bright LED lights charged by the solar panels
- Easy to install and eco-friendly
Cons
- Light color can be harsh compared to warm white lights
3. iThird LED Solar Step Lights
It’s certainly ironic that these bright lights take the third spot on our list, right? Like the JACKYLED, they have an IP44 waterproof rating, so you know they won’t easily be compromised. However, unlike the JACKYLED and the XLUX, the iThird Solar Step Light only takes 4-6 hours to charge fully.
The unique feature that stood out to us the most had to be the replaceable LED lights. This solar lighting could be charged in direct sunlight for years on end. However, once they began to fail, you could easily replace the lights, making them extremely eco-friendly. On a full charge, these solar lights could last anywhere from 6 hours to 10 hours, depending on the conditions. They will automatically turn on once the sun sets and solar-powered lights are needed.
Our Verdict
The only drawback we found with these lights was that the brightness level could not be adjusted, which could be a deciding factor for many people. The LED lights are super bright and automatically turn on no matter what. Besides that, these are nearly flawless lights. They offer many mounting options and are bright enough to cover your whole deck should you need to. The solar deck lights come with screws that make mounting simple and installation easy.
Pros
- Full charge in only 4-6 hours
- Replaceable lights are energy-saving.
- It automatically turns on at dusk.
Cons
- Super bright solar lighting isn’t adjustable.
4. GIGALUMI Solar Powered Stair Lights
These solar deck lights are an exciting design, but one that could work best for your steps. The brown coloring of the GIGALUMI Solar Deck Lights will either make them blend in perfectly with your steps or stick out like no other.
The 36 lumens, entirely powered by the internal solar panel, emit a warm white light to keep your space well-lit and appealing throughout the night. These solar step lights come with screws that provide many different affixing options and plenty of placement choices. GIGALUMI has made some high-quality lights that shine in the installation process. Few other solar-powered lights are as easy to install as these, and that’s something that we love to encounter with solar-powered deck lights.
Our Verdict
While they might not offer too many unique features, such as the iThird does, this certainly is a dependable product. You’re buying these solar-powered stair lights for the design and how easy they are to use. The many mounting options are also an appealing feature that we were a fan of in the testing process. If you’re looking for a device that charges quickly in direct sunlight and blends in perfectly with almost any deck, this is a fantastic product to light up your night.
Pros
- Warm, bright light with 36 lumens offered
- Two mounting options
- It blends in well with many outdoor step designs
Cons
- Mounting can be easily compromised.
5. JSOT Outdoor Solar Lights
If you’re looking for one of the most straightforward installation processes, these lights should be at the top of your list. The official listing on Amazon has the jSOT Solar Deck Step Lights being installed in less than 4 minutes for a complete beginner, and we were able to install them in three. The same can be said about the charging options with a quick 8-hour charge for 10 hours of night-time use.
These high-quality lights include durable solar panels that collect direct sunlight for an ample charge throughout the day. Just make sure these are in a spot with constant sunlight, as these solar panels do not seem to be as efficient in shaded conditions.
Our Verdict
The feature that solidified our admiration of these solar-powered deck lights was the ease of installation. Even if you’ve never touched solar lights, you’ll have this device up and ready to go in less than five minutes. The internal solar panel will give you the charge you need to get through the night with ease, and the energy-saving you’re bound to do will be well worth the initial price.
Pros
- One of the easiest installation processes on our list
- Quick charge when the sun is out
- It automatically turns on at dusk.
Cons
- It doesn’t charge well with indirect sunlight
6. XTF2015 Copper Outdoor Solar Step Lights
One of the first things you’ll notice will be the copper casing during the day. It’s aesthetically pleasing and will work just as well as the GIGALUMI for pairing any wooden deck. However, at night, you won’t be able to see anything but the brightness of the light.
You can adjust the brightness of the XTF2015 Copper Outdoor Solar Deck Light to reach up to 100 lumens with this amazing solar-powered step light. It is useful to note that this is not a motion sensor, just a solar-powered step light. While easy to install, it’s surprisingly heavy-duty.
Our Verdict
We can’t recommend this solar deck light enough. It’s built to last and puts out some of the brightest light we’ve seen. This deck light comes with a broad solar panel that collects solar energy in hours and can light up the night like no other. The copper casing is stunning, and the design of the light itself is unlike any other we’ve seen. Your solar deck step lights will be the envy of the neighborhood. You can adjust the brightness so that your yard is covered when the step light automatically turns on.
Pros
- 100 lumens of brightness
- Beautiful copper casing
- Surprisingly durable
Cons
- No motion sensor
7. SOLMORE Solar Deck Lights
The hidden secret about these SOLMORE Solar Deck Lights is that they are deck lights. Most solar step lights are called deck lights as a form of classification, but the SOLMORE was initially designed to be used as deck lights. We’ve included them in our list because they work well for decks and steps. The main difference between these and your classic solar step lights is the waterproof rating. Most solar step lights have an IP44 waterproof rating, but the SOLMORE is up to IP68.
These lights have one of the best weather resistances on our list. The aluminum alloy casing ensures no single drop of water will get in and disrupt the internal solar panels on these solar deck lights. They’re just as easy to use as the other solar-powered step lights on our list, and the installation process is also simple.
Our Verdict
While they might not technically be solar step lights, they function similarly and even bring some extra features to the table. This product is one of the best solar step lights for not being step lights. Waterproof to a fault and durable beyond belief, the SOLMORE 4-pack is sure to keep your steps protected long into the night. We highly recommend these solar-powered deck lights for almost any occasion, but you should look into this device in certain areas where water can be a big issue.
Pros
- Highest level of waterproofing on our list
- Aluminum alloy casing is almost as durable as stainless steel
- The battery charges quickly and holds the power
Cons
- The design stands out in many cases
8. Lightess Solar Powered Lights for Steps or Deck
While the name Lightess can be confusing for a solar step light, the Lightess Solar Lights are anything but. On a full charge, these solar deck lights can get you up to 12 hours of proper coverage. When properly taken care of, you’ll have these Lightless lights working for you for over 50,000 hours. That’s one of the longest lifespans on our list. And, if they don’t live up to the lifetime promise, you can return them for a full replacement with a 1-year warranty.
While they aren’t as waterproof as the SOLMORE, they have the highest rating amongst the pure step lights on our list. With a rating of IP55, not a single drop will find its way into these solar deck step lights. If you’re looking for ample protection for your device, then this is the best solar light for you. This solar light is encased in a stainless steel exterior and ample solar panel protection. No matter how many storms this thing has to endure, it will overcome them all.
Our Verdict
At first glance, this just seemed like another solar light that would be just enough to merit a satisfying review. However, the longer we tested this product, the more we fell in love with it. Lightess might not be as popular as JSOT or JACKYLED, but their products are definitely on par with the competition. The pure strength of this light alone was enough to keep us around, and the length of use was what tipped us over the edge. We loved these solar deck step lights and are sure you will too.
Pros
- Stainless steel casing provides an added layer of durability
- One of the best waterproof levels for step lights
- Small and easy to install almost anywhere
- Long battery life
Cons
- It might need some modifications for all screws to fit
9. GVSHINE Outdoor Solar Step Lights
Their two LED models did not make our list, but with their latest upgrade and the addition of a third LED solar light, we couldn’t skip over GVSHINE any longer.
The only competitor that GVSHINE Outdoor Lights actively goes head to head-with is itself. This rivalry constantly spurs them to make their products better with every model.
Protect your space at night with the solar light that protects itself. With the durable stainless steel casing, your silicon solar panels will be safe from damage and can last you for years of active use. GVSHINE markets these solar deck lights as “more than just a light” as they offer an aesthetic use as well. They look great on any step and provide a stunning, modern feel to your yard. With the upgraded LED solar lights, your whole yard can be covered, not just the steps.
Our Verdict
We went into this product with high expectations as we enjoyed their two LED solar-powered lights, and we weren’t disappointed. Their three LED lights model is something to be reckoned with and not overlooked. It’s one of the best solar lights for pure light spread. Your steps will be thoroughly covered and fully protected. We loved these solar deck step lights and are sure you will.
Pros
- Extremely weather-resistant
- Durable casing
- Includes three LED solar lights
Cons
- Charging takes a long time
Buyer’s Guide
Solar Power Efficiency
Utilizing solar power is an important factor of any great solar light. If the efficiency of the solar panels for turning the UV rays into energy is not good, then your batteries will take a while to charge up. Solar-powered lights should charge within a few hours – eight at the most – and last throughout the entire night on a full charge.
Average Light Lifetime
Many solar-powered lights on our list can last up to 50,000 hours of active use. You shouldn’t replace your light every year or so, as that’s a major waste of money. Find a light that can last you for years and will be with you for the long run. Solar lights shouldn’t be simple to toss out and replace. They should become a permanent fixture in your yard, lasting years.
Brightness Level
This comes down to your situation. For some people, a well-lit step is a necessity. For others, these solar lights are more for the look than practicality. Whatever the case, the brightness level that the light emits should play a major factor in your decision. Remember that some solar lights offer different brightness levels that can be adjusted when needed.
Type of Lighting
The variations in step lights are based on how you will use them. There are two main types of solar lights that you can choose from. The first is more of a path light that lays flat and positions its LEDs upwards for a wider spread of light. These are durable and can take a beating. The second type affixes to the stairs and creates a wide spread to illuminate the edge. The LEDs on these solar lights point down and at an angle.
Durability
If you’re going to be purchasing these lights, you’ll want to make sure that they can last. Many types of solar lights are placed flat on the surface where they can easily be stepped on or driven over. You don’t want a light that will easily crumble at the first sign of contact, especially for the light path style of step light. Many lights on our list are made of stainless steel, which allows them to withstand tons of pressure before the first signs of cracking.
While the step lights that affix to the step themselves might not be run over any time soon, they are still within the range of many shoes and boots that can accidentally come in contact with them. One kick shouldn’t be enough to shatter the solar panel. 100 kicks shouldn’t, either. Find a solar light that is durable and can withstand plenty of contacts.
Weatherproof
These lights are likely going to be placed outside, where there is probably going to be some rain. While some locations might get more of it than others, everybody experiences rainfall, and your light should be able to withstand the weather. The solar deck lights on our list have a higher IP rating, but that’s only because they need it, as they’re likely to be less covered by the rain than a step light. We suggest a light with a waterproof level of at least IP44. Anything less could leave your device exposed to the elements.
Battery Power
The strength of your light is only as good as the strength of your batteries. If the batteries die quickly, then your light will too. It’s important that you find a device that either has durable batteries or can easily be replaced when they die. Some of the lights on our list offer battery replacements, but most products ensure that their batteries will last you for years before you even need to replace one.
How They Look
Aesthetics goes a long way in deciding the power of any great backyard. If your lights don’t look good or match the steps well, they’ll stick out like a sore thumb, and you’ll wish there wasn’t enough light to see them. Finding the perfect light based on how it might not feel intuitive, but it certainly is something that could make or break your decision. All of the lights on our list are designed to be both effective and aesthetically pleasing.
Why Get Solar Deck Lights?
For many, the idea of a solar device could seem a bit cumbersome. Wired lights might work better and are more reliable, right? We wanted to take a moment to look at the pros and cons of purchasing a solar step lightly. Let’s start with the negatives of solar products.
Cons
There is certainly some truth to the idea that solar lights can be unreliable. They require the sun’s energy to work, and a single cloudy day could leave you without light for the entire night. There is no guarantee that you will have ample light throughout the night. Not only does this affect how much light you’ll get, but it also places you on a leash as to where you can put the lights. If your steps don’t have access to sunlight, then chances are you won’t get a full charge.
Pros
Now let’s look into why one should buy a solar device. For starters, to combat the idea of a “location” leash, with solar lights, you won’t be reliant on the closest available outlet. On top of this, eliminating wires makes the installation process a breeze, and your yard looks even better.
Another reason for purchasing solar lights is the eco-friendly aspect of them all. Because they use the sun’s power, there is no carbon footprint tied to these magnificent devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Will it Take to Charge My Solar Deck Lights?
The time it takes to charge your solar lights fully will vary from product to product. Most lights take anywhere from 4 to 8 hours for a full charge. This number can also be affected by the weather, shading, and solar panel efficiency. If it’s a sunny day with the sun facing the lights directly, the time will be lower. Cloudy days will cause the charging time to take much longer.
How to Install Solar Step Lights?
Most solar step lights can easily be installed via screws that can be inserted into holes that are placed in the light itself. Other lights include a sticky back that can be affixed directly to the surface where you want to keep the light. Installation is simple and will likely be accompanied by easy-to-follow instructions. All of the lights on our list utilize one of these two methods of installation.
How Can I Take Care of and Maintain My Lights?
For the most part, the lights will take care of themselves. Certain devices can be dismantled, and the battery can be removed when it needs to be replaced. Once every month or two, it would be wise to clean the solar panel of any dirt or residue build-up to maximize exposure to the sun. However, if you’re looking to take care of your solar light continuously, so its lifespan is increased, the best thing you can do is look into placement. Once the light is affixed, there’s not much you can do, but avoiding spots where you know the light might not necessarily be safe would be a great first step.
