Whether for aesthetic purposes or 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.
No matter the weather, you can always expect quality from the XLUX solar lights. They were built to survive almost any storm and 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. The light will automatically come on once the sun sets if the switch is in auto. 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 personalization to this solar-powered light.
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a light that can provide soft-warm lighting bright enough to keep your deck safe throughout the night, 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 for 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
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 will 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, 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 can see well into the night with even just one of these solar step lights.
The solar panels on this light charge it quickly, so 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
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 previous two products, 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 simplify mounting and installation.
These solar deck lights are an exciting design 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. These solar deck lights are an exciting design that could work best for your steps. The brown coloring of these 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 we enjoyed in testing.
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.
If you’re looking for one of the most straightforward installation processes, these lights should be on 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 ensure these are in a spot with constant sunlight, as these solar panels are not 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 ready 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
The aesthetic appeal of the Solar Deck Driveway Outdoor Lights is definitely one of its most obvious features. The body of the lights just shimmers while being somewhat hushed; it would go well with various backdrops.
Made of aluminum alloy, these lights are not quite susceptible to rust and water-induced damage. They are even pretty tough, and they can withstand a lot of weight without taking a dent.
One of our favorite features of this product is that it charges pretty fast. We got a full charge in around 7 hours of exposing it to moderate sunshine. Of course, this could be shorter or longer, depending on the sun’s intensity. A full charge typically lasts through the night. So, give or take, the lighting time is around 9 to 12 hours. This is, in part, due to the relatively large battery capacity.
If you love DIY, you’d probably fancy this product. The installation process is straightforward so you can install all 4 lights in the pack yourself.
Our Verdict
The Solar Deck Driveway Outdoor Lights is a blend of style and function. So, if you want to illuminate your driveway and introduce some elegance into the landscape, here’s a choice you should consider strongly.
Pros
Fairly large battery capacity
Stylish design
Waterproof and durable
Rapid charging
Long lighting time
Cons
No motion sensor
7. LED Solar Warm Light Multicolour 2 in 1 Waterproof Lamp
We don’t even have to say it; like us, you definitely think the LED Solar Warm Light Multicolour 2 in 1 Waterproof Lamp is beautiful. And it’s not just the design; the multiple color lights are a sight to behold.
Of course, the beauty and colorfulness were not the only features that highlighted the quality of this product for us. We liked the fact that we could use it in more than one way. So, when we didn’t use it for aesthetics, we lit spaces like driveways with warm light to create a comfy scenery.
The ease of installation was particularly a high point for us. Even though we could screw the lights to a wall, we preferred the second option, which allowed us to stick the lights to the mounting point.
This product is also waterproof, like many others in this review. The sturdiness wasn’t in question – at least under regular conditions.
It takes about 8 hours to get a full charge – not ideal. But then, when fully charged, the lights can stay on for up to 10 hours. So, all in all, the charging and lighting situation is fair.
Our Verdict
Using the LED Solar Warm Light Multicolour 2 in 1 Waterproof Lamp was delightful. The combination of function, flair, and versatility was a beautiful experience.
Pros
Elegant lights
Easy to install
Large battery capacity
Long lighting time
Cons
The charging time could be shorter.
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, these Lightless lights will work 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 want ample protection for your device, this is the best solar light. 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 seemed like another solar light that would be enough to merit a satisfying review. However, the longer we tested this product, the more we fell in love.
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. Solar Deck Lights Solar Fence Lights Outdoor Garden Decorative Lights
If you want a solar step light that is more style than function, the Solar Deck Lights Solar Fence Lights Outdoor Garden Decorative Lights should be your go-to. Depending on how you install them, the lights of this product project a pattern of warm white light on the ground or the wall, creating a tranquil atmosphere.
Beyond the aesthetics, these lights still offer some illumination – just not as much as some of the regular solar step lights. The installation is uncomplicated and quick – you only have to mount the lights on a straight surface.
Regarding charging, it took about 8 hours for us to get a full charge under moderate sunlight. Then the lighting time after a full charge was around 9 hours. While both metrics are okay, we would have preferred the shorter charging time. Perhaps, this would have been the case if the solar panel was monocrystalline instead of polycrystalline.
This product is pretty durable, and it shuts out ingress effectively. So, it can stay outdoors without getting affected by rain, dew, or snow.
Our Verdict
The Solar Deck Lights Solar Fence Lights Outdoor Garden Decorative Lights is undeniably stylish. You can use it for various parts of your home besides the steps – gardens, patios, and other similar locations. It is also cost-effective, and all in all, it is a quality buy.
Pros
Very stylish design
decent lighting time
Durable casing
Quick and simple to install
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.
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 widespread to illuminate the edge. The LEDs on these solar lights point down and at an angle.
Durability
If you’re purchasing these lights, you’ll want to ensure they can last. Many 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 will likely be placed outside, where there will probably be 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 stop 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 lights on our list offer battery replacements, but most products ensure 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 could make or break your decision. All the lights on our list are designed to be effective and aesthetically pleasing.
Why Get Solar Deck Lights?
For many, 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 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. The weather, shading, and solar panel efficiency can also affect this number.
The time will be lower if it’s sunny with the sun facing the lights directly. 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 lights on our list utilize one of these two installation methods.
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, you cannot do much, but avoiding spots where you know the light might not be safe would be a great first step.
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