Snow, mistletoe, and lots of Christmas décor make for a good holiday season. It just isn’t December without Christmas lights everywhere. However, this does come at the expense of the shocking electricity bill in January. Eliminate this by opting for solar lights this year – sure, the up-front cost is higher, but you’ll be saving on electricity costs, the time it takes to manage them, and you’ll even be helping the environment. Read on to see our picks for the best solar Christmas lights you can buy.
1. Joomer Solar Christmas Lights
ASIN Number: B07L885X7F
These Joomer fairy lights are perfect for any kind of Christmas decoration, and come with 200 LED lights. The 72 ft. length ensures that your decorations won’t be sparse or lackluster. Users can pick between 7 different colors, including white and multi-colored options – you can definitely find something to match existing décor or a theme. Additionally, they have 8 different modes so that users can take advantage of customization. If users are fond of a particular mode, they don’t have to keep resetting it – the in-built memory chip saves the last mode setting and uses it until the user decides to switch to a new mode.
Buyers also don’t have to worry about weather conditions when purchasing these lights – they’re IP65 waterproof and can withstand heavy rain and snow. An adjustable design is used to make sure that your light is able to charge efficiently – just angle it toward the sun and wait for it to charge. Charging time is only 6-8 hours, and full charge for 6 hours will result in more than 8 hours of running time – you won’t have to worry about these turning off in the middle of the night. Even installation is easy – the lights come with a 6 ft. cable so that you can place the panel where you feel is best.
Pros:
- Affordable
- 8 different modes
- IP65 waterproof
- Memory chip saves settings
- 6 ft cable, 72 ft length
- 8+ hours running time
Cons:
None.
2. Vmanoo Solar Powered LED String Lights
ASIN Number: B0759CMCT1
These lights are perfect for anyone who is a fan of the winter wonderland theme since they’re shaped like hanging icicles. Even if you’re not having a white Christmas, you can still use these to emulate one. The blue LED light emitted further adds to this illusion. If you’re not a fan of the color, you can choose from 7 others as well.
At 23.6 ft., they don’t lack in length either. However, what makes these one of the best solar Christmas lights is the fact that that the running time lasts anywhere from 8 to 12 hours. This is despite the charging time remaining the same as other options, i.e., 6-8 hours. As outdoor lights, they’re certified IP65 waterproof and can withstand rain and snow.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Up to 12 hours running time
- IP65 waterproof rating
- 6 ft. length
Cons:
- Fragile
3. KeShi Solar Star String Lights
ASIN Number: B07T1K2Q5F
If you’re bored of regular fairy lights, these star-shaped lights are the perfect solution. This long, 40 ft. string consists of 100 star-shaped lights that, after being charged, can work for 8-12 hours. Since it switches on automatically (upon detecting darkness), this is a hassle-free solution to your Christmas lighting needs.
These lights are both, IP65 waterproof and heatproof, and are able to weather the elements. The KeShi star lights are also meant to last, and have a lifespan of 30,000 hours, ensuring that you won’t have to keep buying lights over and over.
With the money-back guarantee and replacement policy, the purchase is zero-risk. The warm, white light emitted by these starry lights will make any outdoor space much cozier than it was previously.
Pros:
- Affordable
- IP65 waterproof and heatproof
- 8 different modes
- Up to 12 hours running time
- 30-day money back guarantee
- 2-year replacement guarantee
- 40 ft. length
- Long lifespan (30,000 hours)
Cons:
- Short initial charge
Factors to Consider
In order to purchase the best solar Christmas lights, you must keep the following factors in mind.
Type
There are many different types of Christmas lights available from fairy lights and globe lights to tree lights and pathway lights. You can also opt for lights in shapes like stars, flowers, and even icicles.
Durability
The material will affect the durability of the lights – plastic, for example, won’t last as long as tempered glass.
Weatherproofing
Because the lights are going to be used outdoors, they need to be weatherproof. You should look for waterproofing, heatproofing and snow-proofing depending on the weather conditions in your area. An “IP65 waterproof” claim is a must since this will ensure that the lights last through rain. However, while IP65 waterproof lights can withstand showers and snow, they should never be fully soaked. To determine whether the lights are waterproof, look for the IP Code.
Length
It is important to pay attention to length when buying Christmas lights – with short strings, you will need more of them to cover the area fully. Always double check length so that you don’t have to resort to placing a second order.
Color
Some prefer a warm, white glow while others prefer multi-colored lights. This depends on your personal style.
Modes
Lights can also come with options for different modes, including constant (steady on), twinkling, fading, etc.
Charging Time
Opt for low charging times since you won’t have much sunlight in the winter. If the light takes too long to charge and sunlight is scarce, you won’t be able to enjoy your Christmas lights properly. They simply won’t have enough power to keep your house alight at night.
Runtime
This refers to the amount of time that the lights will stay on after a full charge. Checking this is important to make sure that your Christmas lights are on all night.
Our Final Thoughts
Whether you’re looking for simple string lights or lights in different shapes, this list of the best solar Christmas lights has covered a variety of lights that are sure to make your holidays festive without having to face the consequences come January. Happy decorating!
