Outdoor string lights are a fun and functional way to add ambiance and illumination to your outdoor space. Our top pick for the best outdoor string lights is Brightever LED.
Whether you’re looking to create a cozy atmosphere for an intimate gathering or light up your backyard for a festive party, outdoor string lights can help you achieve your desired effect.
When shopping for outdoor string lights, there are a few key factors to keep in mind.
First and foremost, you’ll want to consider the length and number of bulbs on the string. This will determine how much coverage you’ll have and how bright the lights will be.
Additionally, you’ll want to think about the quality of the bulbs themselves, as well as the durability of the string and any weather-resistant features it may have.
After researching and testing various outdoor string lights, we’ve identified the top options for a variety of needs and preferences.
Whether you’re looking for energy-efficient LED lights, classic Edison-style bulbs, or a string that can withstand harsh weather conditions, we’ve got you covered.
So let’s dive in and explore the best outdoor string lights available on the market today.
Contents hide
Best Outdoor String Lights
1. Brightever LED Outdoor String Lights
2. GPATIO 120FT Outdoor String Lights
3. Addlon LED Outdoor String Lights
4. GLUROO Outdoor String Lights
5. addlon 48 FT Outdoor String Lights
6. KDEEIE Outdoor String Lights
7. GUDDL 100FT LED Outdoor String Light Waterproof
8. XMCOSY+ Outdoor String Lights
Buying Guide
Bulb Type
Length and Number of Bulbs
Weather Resistance
Power Source
Style and Design
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we choose the best outdoor string lights for durability and weather resistance?
What features should we look for in energy-efficient outdoor string lights?
Which outdoor string lights offer the best illumination for large spaces?
What are the top-rated outdoor string lights for ease of installation?
Are there outdoor string lights that provide both ambiance and functionality?
How do solar-powered outdoor string lights compare to traditional plug-in options?
Best Outdoor String Lights
We all love spending time outside, whether it’s a summer evening or a cozy winter night. And what better way to enhance the ambiance of your outdoor space than with beautiful string lights?
With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve done the research and testing to bring you the best outdoor string lights available.
From classic globe lights to colorful LED options, our roundup has something for everyone. So, without further ado, here are our top picks for the best outdoor string lights.
1. Brightever LED Outdoor String Lights
If you want to create a cozy and inviting outdoor atmosphere, the Brightever LED Outdoor String Lights are a great choice.
Pros
- The 100ft length and 52 shatterproof edison bulbs make it easy to cover a larger area without worrying about frequent replacements.
- The weatherproof technology allows you to leave them outside year-round confidently, withstanding rain, wind, snow, and extreme temperatures up to 158 degrees Fahrenheit.
- The vintage string lights come with st38 tear-drop E12 bulbs which provide a nice, soft yellow glow without being too bright or too dark.
Cons
- The bulb shells are made of hard anti-drop plastic, which may not be as aesthetically pleasing as glass for some users.
- Some users have reported issues with bulbs failing soon after installation, but this may be due to socket contact issues.
- The lights are corded electric, which may limit placement options for some users.
We recently used the Brightever LED Outdoor String Lights to create a cozy atmosphere on our balcony, and we were impressed with the quality of the lights.
The bulbs emit a warm, inviting glow that isn’t too bright or too dim, and the 100ft length allowed us to cover our entire balcony without needing to purchase additional strands.
The weatherproof technology also gave us peace of mind, knowing that we could leave the lights up year-round without worrying about weather damage. The installation process was easy, and we appreciated the built-in hooks and improved sockets and cords.
Overall, we would recommend the Brightever LED Outdoor String Lights to anyone looking to add a cozy and inviting atmosphere to their outdoor space.
2. GPATIO 120FT Outdoor String Lights
If you’re looking for outdoor string lights that can withstand harsh weather and provide a warm, romantic ambiance, the GPATIO 120FT Outdoor String Lights are a great choice.
Pros
- The fully sealed and IP45 waterproof design socket and shatterproof bulbs with hooks make these lights durable and able to withstand terrible weather conditions like rain, snow, wind, and storms.
- The 2700K warm glow hanging string lights create the best ambiance for your outdoor spaces, and you can connect up to 16 strings (960ft) end to end, making them suitable for any scene.
- The dimmable globe Edison bulbs are compatible with various dimmers on the market, allowing you to customize different atmospheres by adjusting the brightness of your outdoor lights to meet your desired brightness.
Cons
- The bulbs are spaced out a little more than some people might prefer.
- The product doesn’t come with a remote or dimmer, so you’ll need to purchase those separately if you want to control the brightness and other features.
- The bulbs are small, which some people might find less visually appealing than larger bulbs.
We recently purchased the GPATIO 120FT Outdoor String Lights for our backyard, and we’ve been very happy with them.
They were easy to install using cup hooks or guide wires with built-in loops, and they look beautiful hanging from our pergola. The warm glow of the bulbs creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for entertaining or just relaxing outside.
One of the things we love about these lights is how durable they are. We’ve had some pretty harsh weather lately, with strong winds and heavy rain, but the lights have held up perfectly.
The fact that they’re waterproof and shatterproof gives us peace of mind that they’ll last for many years to come.
Another great feature of these lights is that they’re dimmable. We’ve connected them to a dimmer switch, and it’s been great to be able to adjust the brightness to suit our needs.
Whether we’re having a romantic dinner outside or just hanging out with friends, we can create the perfect ambiance with these lights.
Overall, we highly recommend the GPATIO 120FT Outdoor String Lights. They’re a great investment for anyone who wants to create a beautiful, inviting outdoor space that can be enjoyed year-round.
3. Addlon LED Outdoor String Lights
If you’re looking for outdoor string lights that are both energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, then the Addlon LED Outdoor String Lights are a great option.
Pros
- These LED bulbs are super energy-saving, reducing your electricity bill by up to 98% compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.
- The LED bulbs have an extra-long 15,000-hour lifespan, eliminating the need for frequent replacements and saving you time and money.
- These weatherproof patio lights can withstand rain, sun, wind, snow, humidity, and extreme outdoor temperatures.
Cons
- These string lights have an extra-long 15,000-hour lifespan, eliminating the need for frequent replacements and saving you time and money.
- These string lights have an extra-long 15,000-hour lifespan, eliminating the need for frequent replacements and saving you time and money.
- These string lights have an extra-long 15,000-hour lifespan, eliminating the need for frequent replacements and saving you time and money.
We highly recommend the Addlon LED Outdoor String Lights for anyone looking to upgrade their outdoor lighting.
The LED bulbs are energy-efficient and long-lasting, and the lights are weatherproof and durable.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or creating a cozy ambiance on your patio, these string lights are perfect for extended indoor and outdoor use (here are the best patio umbrella lights).
The Addlon LED Outdoor String Lights are easy to install and use. Simply install them as a canopy on your porch or gazebo for a vintage bistro look and a delightful party atmosphere (we’ve covered the best hardtop gazebos here).
You can even use them with dimmer switches (not included) for greater mood lighting flexibility and a soft glow.
The Addlon LED Outdoor String Lights are also shatterproof and safe to touch, ensuring worry-free use.
The individual wick process provides an extra layer of protection for added safety and durability, so you don’t have to worry about broken bulbs. Plus, with their low heat generation, these LED outdoor lights are safe to touch, ensuring worry-free use.
Finally, Addlon offers 3-year product support, so you can rest assured that your purchase is backed by exceptional customer service.
In summary, the Addlon LED Outdoor String Lights are a great investment for anyone looking for energy-efficient, long-lasting, and environmentally friendly outdoor lighting.
4. GLUROO Outdoor String Lights
If you’re looking for durable, energy-saving outdoor string lights, the GLUROO Outdoor String Lights are a great option.
Pros
- The LED bulbs are energy-saving, using only 1 watt per bulb.
- The lights are durable and shatterproof, made with thick, unbreakable PET material.
- The lights are waterproof and can withstand extreme temperatures, rain, wind, and humidity.
Cons
- The lights are not dimmable unless you purchase a separate dimmer.
- The bulbs are smaller than expected.
- The wire is very light.
We recently purchased the GLUROO Outdoor String Lights for our backyard and have been impressed with their durability and brightness.
The LED bulbs are energy-saving, using only 1 watt per bulb, which has helped to reduce our energy bill.
The lights are also shatterproof and waterproof, making them perfect for outdoor use. We’ve had some heavy rain and wind since we installed them, and they’ve held up perfectly.
One downside is that the lights are not dimmable unless you purchase a separate dimmer, which we haven’t done yet.
Additionally, the bulbs are smaller than we expected, but they still provide plenty of light. Finally, the wire is very light, which makes it easy to install, but we worry about its durability over time.
Overall, we’re happy with our purchase of the GLUROO Outdoor String Lights. They’re bright, energy-saving, and durable, making them a great choice for outdoor use.
5. addlon 48 FT Outdoor String Lights
We highly recommend the addlon 48 FT Outdoor String Lights for anyone looking to add some ambiance to their outdoor space.
Pros
- The 18 Edison bulbs provide bright and ideal illumination for any occasion.
- The UL-listed weatherproof commercial design makes these lights durable enough to withstand any weather condition.
- The dimmer compatibility allows for greater mood lighting flexibility and the ability to create the perfect atmosphere for any event.
Cons
- The distance between bulbs is approximately 3.11 ft, which may be too far apart for some users.
- The dimmer switch is not included and must be purchased separately.
- The bulbs are incandescent, which may not be as energy-efficient as LED bulbs.
We were impressed with how easy it was to install these lights. The hanging sockets have hooks above them, making it easy to hang the lights with hooks, guide wires, or zip ties.
Plus, the lights can connect with another strand simply by using grounded cord plugs into any standard outlets. We also appreciated the fact that the package comes with three spare bulbs.
The addlon 48 FT Outdoor String Lights are perfect for any occasion, including weddings, BBQ parties, banquets, and tree-lighting like Christmas trees. The lights are also suitable for bistros, decks, porches, patios, gardens, backyards, terraces, pergolas, café, restaurants, or malls.
Overall, we believe that the addlon 48 FT Outdoor String Lights are a great investment for anyone looking to add some charm and warmth to their outdoor space.
6. KDEEIE Outdoor String Lights
If you’re looking for outdoor string lights that are shatterproof, durable, and waterproof, then you might want to consider the KDEEIE Outdoor String Lights.
Pros
- The acrylic bulb shell ensures that the lights are shatterproof, making them a safer option for outdoor use.
- The lights are easy to install and connectable, allowing you to customize the length according to your needs.
- The UL-certified lights are waterproof and can withstand various weather conditions, making them perfect for outdoor use.
Cons
- The dimmer kit is not included in the package, so you’ll have to purchase it separately if you want greater lighting flexibility.
- Some customers have reported that they received only one spare bulb instead of two, as advertised.
- The distance between each lightbulb is not specified, which could be a concern for some customers.
We recently had the chance to try out these outdoor string lights and were impressed by their durability and ease of installation. The acrylic bulb shell is a great feature as it ensures that the lights won’t shatter, making them a safer option for outdoor use.
We also appreciated how easy they were to install, and the fact that they are connectable allowed us to customize the length according to our needs.
Another great feature is that these lights are waterproof and can withstand various weather conditions. We left them outside during a rainy day, and they still worked perfectly fine. We also liked how they added a warm and cozy ambiance to our outdoor space.
One thing to note is that the dimmer kit is not included in the package, so you’ll have to purchase it separately if you want greater lighting flexibility.
Additionally, some customers have reported that they received only one spare bulb instead of two, as advertised. Lastly, the distance between each lightbulb is not specified, which could be a concern for some customers.
Overall, we think that the KDEEIE Outdoor String Lights are a great option for those looking for shatterproof, durable, and waterproof outdoor string lights. They’re easy to install, connectable, and add a warm and cozy ambiance to any outdoor space.
7. GUDDL 100FT LED Outdoor String Light Waterproof
If you’re looking for a reliable, energy-efficient, and beautiful outdoor string light, the GUDDL 100FT LED Outdoor String Light Waterproof is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The 50 shatterproof G40 bulbs made of clear plastic are safer and more durable than traditional glass bulbs, making them perfect for outdoor use.
- The LED bulbs are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, saving you up to 90% on electricity bills.
- The vintage hanging lights create a charming bistro atmosphere, providing a nice, soft yellow glow that’s not too bright or too dark.
Cons
- While the bulbs are shatterproof, they’re not completely break-proof, so you still need to handle them with care.
- The remote control is not included, so you need to purchase it separately.
- The warm white color of the bulbs may not be suitable for everyone’s taste.
We’ve used these lights for several outdoor gatherings, and they’ve never disappointed us.
The bulbs are easy to install and hang using hooks, making it possible to hang them anywhere you need. They’re also waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about them getting damaged in the rain.
The lights have a lifespan of over 25,000 hours, which means they’ll last for years to come. We also appreciate that they’re compatible with most dimmers on the market, although you need to purchase the dimmer separately.
Overall, we highly recommend the GUDDL 100FT LED Outdoor String Light Waterproof for anyone looking for a reliable and beautiful outdoor string light. Plus, with a 12-month warranty, you can purchase with confidence.
8. XMCOSY+ Outdoor String Lights
If you’re looking for colorful outdoor string lights that can be controlled through an app and voice commands, the XMCOSY+ Outdoor String Lights are a great option.
Pros
- The 16 million colors and dimmable brightness/saturation, along with the color wheel/white palette on the XMcosy App, allow for easy customization to fit any occasion.
- The smart app and voice control make it easy to control the lights from anywhere, and the variety of smart features, like Schedule, Automation & Grouping functions, allow for easy customization.
- The IP65 weatherproof and shatterproof design with flexible, heavy-duty cable wire and tough plastic bulbs make these lights durable and able to withstand any bad weather.
Cons
- Some users have reported connectivity issues with the app and voice control.
- The lights may not be as bright as some users would like.
- The lifespan of the LED bulbs may not be as long as some other outdoor string lights.
We recently had the chance to use the XMCOSY+ Outdoor String Lights for a backyard party, and we were impressed with their versatility and ease of use.
The ability to easily change the colors and brightness through the app made it easy to create a fun and festive atmosphere. The app was easy to use and we had no issues with connectivity.
Installation was also a breeze, with the hanging hooks and stainless steel guidewire making it easy to set up the lights.
We were able to connect multiple strings within an adapter, which was extendable up to 60 bulbs, making it easy to customize the length of the lights to fit our needs.
Overall, we would highly recommend the XMCOSY+ Outdoor String Lights for anyone looking for colorful and versatile outdoor string lights that can be controlled through an app and voice commands.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best outdoor string lights, there are several factors that you should consider before making a purchase.
In this section, we will discuss the key features that you should look for when shopping for outdoor string lights.
Bulb Type
The first thing that you should consider is the type of bulb that the string lights use.
There are several types of bulbs available, including LED, incandescent, and fluorescent. LED bulbs are the most energy-efficient and long-lasting, while incandescent bulbs are the most traditional and have a warm, inviting glow.
Fluorescent bulbs are the least common, but they are also energy-efficient and long-lasting.
Length and Number of Bulbs
The length and number of bulbs on a string light will determine how much area it can cover and how bright it will be. Longer strings with more bulbs are ideal for larger outdoor spaces, while shorter strings with fewer bulbs are better for smaller areas.
Weather Resistance
Since outdoor string lights will be exposed to the elements, it is important to choose lights that are weather-resistant.
Look for lights that are rated for outdoor use and can withstand rain, wind, and other weather conditions.
Power Source
Outdoor string lights can be powered by electricity or solar power. Electric-powered lights are more reliable and consistent, but they require access to an outlet.
Solar-powered lights are more eco-friendly and can be placed anywhere, but they may not be as bright or consistent as electric-powered lights (check out our guide on the best solar lights).
Style and Design
Finally, you should consider the style and design of the outdoor string lights.
There are many different styles available, including vintage, rustic, modern, and more. Choose a style that complements your outdoor space and adds to its overall aesthetic.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best outdoor string lights for your needs and create a beautiful and inviting outdoor space.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do we choose the best outdoor string lights for durability and weather resistance?
When selecting outdoor string lights, it is important to consider the materials used in their construction.
Look for lights made with weather-resistant materials such as heavy-duty plastic, metal, or rubber.
Additionally, check for an IP rating, which measures the level of protection against water and dust. Lights with an IP65 rating or higher are ideal for outdoor use.
You might also be interested in checking out the best outdoor rope lights.
What features should we look for in energy-efficient outdoor string lights?
Energy-efficient outdoor string lights can help reduce your electricity bill while also being environmentally friendly.
Look for lights with LED bulbs, which use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.
Additionally, consider lights with a timer or sensor that can automatically turn them on and off, further reducing energy usage.
Which outdoor string lights offer the best illumination for large spaces?
For large outdoor spaces, it is important to choose string lights with a high-lumen output.
Look for lights with a lumen output of at least 1000 to ensure adequate illumination. Additionally, consider lights with a wider beam angle to cover a larger area.
What are the top-rated outdoor string lights for ease of installation?
Easy installation is a key factor when choosing outdoor string lights.
Look for lights with simple installation instructions and hardware included. Additionally, consider lights with a plug-and-play design that requires no electrical wiring or professional installation.
Are there outdoor string lights that provide both ambiance and functionality?
Yes, there are outdoor string lights that can provide both ambiance and functionality. Look for lights with adjustable brightness or color temperature settings to create the desired ambiance.
Additionally, consider lights with additional features such as built-in speakers or USB charging ports for added functionality.
How do solar-powered outdoor string lights compare to traditional plug-in options?
Solar-powered outdoor string lights offer the advantage of being environmentally friendly and cost-effective in the long run. However, they may not provide as much illumination as traditional plug-in options and require adequate sunlight to charge.
Consider the location and amount of sunlight in your outdoor space before choosing solar-powered string lights.
Here is a list of the best solar hanging lanterns.
