The Best Solar Pathway Lights to Brighten Your Walkways (2024)

Our Top Picks

Our best overall pick for their brightness and durability, this URPOWER Solar Lights Outdoor set was designed with wet weather and water exposure in mind. It's a great option if you want lights you can leave outside all year without worry. The durable plastic casing protects these lights from all weather conditions. During our tests, water, golf balls, and freezing were no match for this light’s performance—and the adjustable solar panel allows you to switch the panel’s angle on overcast days.

While testing, they stayed illuminated for a full eight-hour period overnight. Simply designed, each light in this set has a power switch and two different brightness settings. We found both to be pretty bright: While it was possible to read a book under the lower setting, we read easily under the higher light setting. We also love that these lights can also be mounted on a wall, rather than a pathway, which makes them a great option for a variety of outdoor lighting needs.

Keep in mind that these lights have a screw that supports the solar panel, but it can be difficult to maneuver to change the angle of the panel when needed. Overall, we appreciated the value of these lights, even if their spotlight design may not be suited for everyone.

_{Dimensions: 10.55 X 4.76 inches | Lumens: 200 | Charging Time: 4-6 hours | Operating Time: Up to 6 hours | Lights in Set: 2 | Weather Resistance: IP64}

If you are willing to pay more for a durable, effective, and sturdy pair of pathway lights that should last season after season, we recommend the Frontgate Pro Series VI Path Light set. These lights feature a weather-proof, cast-aluminum housing that protects the lithium-phosphate battery and lights, and fares better than plastic housing. The aluminum stakes also prevent breakage during installation. While testing in our lab, this light easily passed our “rain” and “hail” tests. However, they did not re-illuminate after being in a freezer for an hour (so they may need to warm up and recharge before they light up again after a freezing cold day).

The tops of these lights measure 7.25 inches in diameter, making the solar panel (larger than other models) better for cloudy days, winter performance, and shaded areas. These lights only come in a set of two, making them an investment to line a full pathway. Despite the limited quantity, these solar lights are a reliable, quality pick, with 60 lumens per light, enough tolight up your yard if spread apart, and have a longer lifetime with an advanced lithium-phosphate battery.

_{Dimensions: 20.5 x 7.25 inches | Lumens: 60 | Charging Time: 8 hours | Operating Time: Up to 8 hours | Lights in Set: 2 | Weather Resistance: Not listed}

The Rayolon Solar Ground Lights are a modern, minimally designed set that can line a pathway, driveway, or pool deck. While testing these lights, they provided a warm white light, with eight LED bulbs in each of the 12 units. However, they were not bright enough to read under independently, so you would want to line them up next to each other for enough light to illuminate a path.

We found that they held up during our water and golf ball tests. Just note that they did not stand up well to being frozen (they wouldn't stay lit for long), so you may want to store them if your area experiences a frigid winter.

We do want to point out a few other small issues to keep in mind: To ensure they reach their maximum brightness, allow three days of charging before installing them in the ground. When installing each light, dig a shallow hole for the stake to prevent breakage.Also, since they are small and low to the ground, avoid stepping on them once installed. Dirt and debris can easily cover them, preventing the solar panels from charging—check on them occasionally, and clean the solar panels if they become covered. Despite these few drawbacks, we think these are a great low-profile choice.

_{Dimensions: 4.72 x 4.92 x 5.2 inches | Lumens: Not Listed | Charging Time: 8 hours | Operating Time: 6-8 hours | Lights in Set: 12 | Weather Resistance: IP65}

Are you looking for a light that can be installed on a wall or used as a ground stake while also acting as a spotlight? If yes, you might be interested in the LEREKAM Solar Spot Lights. We tested these solar lights in our home for over three months and were blown away by how well they illuminated the designated locations. We installed the solar light near the side of our house, facing our gate, and discovered that it provided an impressive 10 feet x 10 feet of lighted area. At 1000 lumens (the highest on our list), we found that the light's maximum range was roughly 25 feet, which is rather good for a solar-powered light.

Setting up the lights was also a breeze. We spent more time deciding where to put the lights than we did putting them together—there are only four basic steps to set up. Even though we only tested the lights on the ground, they may also be screwed to the wall, making it a versatile alternative for your outdoor lighting needs.

While the lights have three brightness levels (high, medium, and low), we found that the high option provided the greatest light in our intended area. Keep in mind, however, that these lights are not motion-censored. Instead, the lights switch on around nightfall, providing a continuous supply of light all night. We did appreciate that they have held up to several storms without any issues.

_{Dimensions: ‎4.3 x 5.7 x 2.4 inches | Lumens: 1000 | Charging Time: Not listed | Operating Time: 8-25 hours | Lights in Set: 2 | Weather Resistance: IP65}

If you want a set of lights to brighten up a longer portion of your sidewalk, path, or around your garden, we love this vintage-inspired set from Hampton Bay. Each light is 15 inches tall when installed, and offers 14 lumens. While it doesn't feature brightness settings or motion detection, the lights have an on/off switch so they automatically turn on at dusk. The charge should last for up to 8 hours.

We love that this set is offered in eight different colors—choose from more traditional options that blend into your landscape, or a fun pop of color. They are weather resistant, but with an IP4 rating, they can't be submerged in water (which shouldn't be an issue unless your area experiences flooding).

_{Dimensions: 5.25 x 15 inches | Lumens: 14 | Charging Time: Not listed | Operating Time: 8 hours | Lights in Set: 4 | Weather Resistance: IPX5}

If you want to add just one light to your landscape, but want it to stand out, we love this option from Better Homes & Gardens. It has a different style than the other options on our list and almost looks like overhead lighting. But in this case, it is tall enough at 17 inches to draw focus to a favorite plant, ground cover, or walkway. (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by The Spruce's parent company, Dotdash Meredith).

This lighting fixture is made of metal with a black matte finish, and has an IPX4 rating, meaning it can handle water splashed at it from all angles. It might not withstand the heaviest rain, so you might want to store it in stormy weather to be safe. It provides 20 lumens of light, so it's bright enough to illuminate part of a path.

While it doesn't offer any brightness settings or other features, it's easy to install and operate—it has an on/off switch, and when on, it should operate for up to 8 hours at night. Keep in mind that it might be top-heavy compared to lantern-style lights, so make sure you are securing it on firm ground.

_{Dimensions: 7.99 x 6.30 x 17.32 inches | Lumens: 20 | Charging Time: Not listed | Operating Time: 8 hours | Lights in Set: 1 | Weather Resistance: IPX4}

For a multicolored set of solar lights that can add cheer on even the gloomiest winter days, check out UMICKOO Solar Outdoor Lights. Made of weather-resistant materials, this set lights up the darkest night with a colorful display. Choose between two settings on each light: warm, white light, and multicolored lights that gently transition among seven colors.

These lights operate after six to eight hours of charging and last eight to 10 hours. But let them sit out in direct sunlight for at least five hours before their first use. When installing them, gently press the stake into the ground with the pole rather than pressing your hand on the solar panel.

One drawback: The settings and operating instructions can be confusing. For example, the “On” switch turns on the warm white light, while the “Fade” switch gently blinks the multicolored lights. Also, you can't choose which colors to display (which would be nice during certain holidays). It's either all white or all different colors.

_{Dimensions: 18.5 x 4.9 inches | Lumens: 25 | Charging Time: 6-8 hours | Operating Time: 8-10 hours | Lights in Set: 8 | Weather Resistance: IP65}

Want to illuminate an area at night that doesn't get much sunlight during the day? Each of the two T-SUNNUS Solar-Powered LED Spotlights in this set comes with a separate, corded solar panel, so you can easily install them in a shaded area and guarantee a full charge every day. You can adjust the angle of the solar panels and the light heads to aim them in the desired directions. Two brightness settings offer up to 200 lumens each, enough brightness to see the details of your yard. You can switch between a bright spotlight and a dimmer pathway light.

While they can be placed in the shade during the day, avoid placing the solar panels under any porch or security lights that come on at night (the spotlight won't turn on if light is detected). Also note that the cords between each light and solar panel are about 10 feet long, which can limit your placement options, especially when covering a particularly large pathway. Despite these few placement concerns, we think these lights are an excellent option for shady areas, especially if you don't mind the traditional spotlight shape.

_{Dimensions: Not Listed | Lumens: 200 | Charging Time: 8-10 hours | Operating Time: 8-10 hours on high light mode; 14-18 hours on low light mode | Lights in Set: 2 | Weather Resistance: IP65}

Large solar pathway lights can be especially helpful if you have a long footpath and want each light to cover more area. The GIGALUMI Solar Pathway Lights aren’t as bright as other models (only 5 lumens, the lowest on this list), but their height and larger structure make them a strong pick for anyone hoping to brighten a large area with fewer lights.

The pack includes six 19-inch-tall lights (including the stakes)—it's the second larger pick on our list, and the largest that comes in a set. Their traditional lantern design casts a crystalline pattern that beautifully lines any walkway or garden area. We also appreciate the large solar panels that allow for a fast charge, and the path light's waterproof- and rust-resistant design.

_{Dimensions: 19 x 5.3 inches | Lumens: 5 | Charging Time: Not listed | Operating Time: 8 hours | Lights in Set: 6 | Weather Resistance: IP44}

Final Verdict

Our best overall pick is the URPOWER Solar Lights Outdoor set. This pair of bright lights held up well to all of our durability tests, and offers two brightness settings, as well as two placement options (wall-mounted or staked into the ground). If you want to splurge on a pair of lantern-style lights that add curb appeal, we also love the Frontgate Pro Series VI Solar Path Light, our best splurge pick.

FAQ

• How do solar pathway lights work?

  Solar lights absorb sunlight through solar panels that store electricity, which powers the bulbs. Some solar lights operate on rechargeable batteries. Others have batteries that can last as long as four years before needing to be replaced.

• How do you install solar pathway lights?

  While each style of our recommended solar pathway light has different assembly instructions, all install in the ground via stakes. If your purchased lights’ stakes seem fragile, we recommend digging shallow holes before pressing them into the ground to prevent breakage. Be sure to install solar pathway lights in an area that enjoys direct sunlight and isn’t covered by other lights in the evening; panels don’t activate if they’re exposed to other light.

• How do you clean and maintain solar pathway lights?

  Solar lights don’t absorb sunlight if the solar panel is dirty or covered with ice or snow. “Prior to cleaning your solar pathway lights, review your manufacturer’s instructions,” Kunkle says. “However, most solar pathway lights can be cleaned with a soft dryclothwithout any cleaners that have chemicals, solvents or harsh abrasives.” Keep in mind that low-profile lights need more frequent checking.

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