By Glenda Taylor and Jasmine Harding and Jamie Birdwell Branson | Updated Jul 25, 2023 6:11 PM
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Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
Outdoor string lights can brighten a backyard or a patio space and make warm nights more relaxing and festive.
These lights come in a range of styles, bulb types, and colors. To pinpoint which ones light up the night, we selected a variety of the most popular models, testing them in multiple weather conditions, noting their durability, ease of installation, and whether they were made from quality materials.
Ahead, learn what to look for when shopping for outdoor string lights, and find out why the following models made the cut in our hands-on testing for some of the best string lights for outdoors.
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
Our hands-on testing was stringent. We wanted to put these outdoor string lights through their paces to ensure their quality before readers purchase them. We used a testing rubric that followed strict guidelines, including hanging the lights (some models) and leaving them in place for several days. After dark, we attempted to read or perform other activities—such as grilling—with just the illumination from the lights. We scored them on both their brightness and illumination.
If the string lights were billed as shatterproof, we dropped them on a concrete patio from head height to see if they would crack. For the ones advertised as being waterproof, we left them out in a rainstorm or (for those under the umbrella and covered patio) sprayed them with water. Then, we tested them again after they dried. We noted the length of the cord (in case the use of an extension cord was required), the number of bulb sockets, and how easy it was to hang them on a structure. Plus, some of these top picks come with replacement bulbs.
We tested a wide variety of string light sets, and the following models all met our high expectations in a range of categories. We didn’t pull any punches, so rest assured, the string lights in this lineup are durable and up to the challenge of lighting up many types of outdoor spaces. From highly weather-resistant outdoor lights to vintage-style Edison bulbs to mystical fairy lights, this list includes a range of options to illuminate most any outdoor space.
We created a warm and inviting ambience in the backyard with these outdoor string lights from Brightown. The long strand suits an elegant, vintage aesthetic with rounded Edison glass bulbs and a 100-foot length.
This light-string strand is waterproof, energy-saving, and dimmer compatible. With 23 lumens of output and 5 watts of energy use per bulb, these lights made even the darkest hour of the night seem lively. The string light includes 100 G40 incandescent bulbs and four replacement bulbs in case of any accidents. With a 2,700K warm white color, these romantic string lights set the backyard aglow.
They’re effortless to install using the attached gutter clips. Each socket on the string has its own clip, and we hooked them to clotheslines to form an overhead grid pattern. With the grid pattern we selected, we could lounge beneath the outdoor lights long after dark and clearly read our magazines. We did not drop these glass bulbs as we did for the shatterproof bulbs in our tests.
We plugged them into our dimmer cord and were able to adjust the intensity down to a soft glow. With 100 bulbs spaced just 12 inches apart, these Brightown incandescent string lights are well suited to parties, creating outdoor ambience or even adding a measure of security.
Get the Brightown patio outdoor string lights at Amazon or Brightown.
This weather-resistant set of string lights is made to handle inclement weather. Lemontec’s commercial-grade outdoor string lights kept our driveway lit up—even after a rainstorm. With glass Edison-style bulbs on a black rubber cable, they have a classic look suited to a range of decor styles.
These string lights stood up remarkably well to wet weather with their waterproof and tear-resistant materials for all-season use. Made with insulating layers, they are safe to hang in a variety of climates and temperatures. The bulbs are incandescent and come with crystal-clear glass globes.
The heavy-duty rubber cord is substantial yet flexible enough to wind around narrow railings or tree branches. Lemontec’s 11-watt incandescent bulbs provided bright light that illuminated the garage front and concrete driveway long after it was completely dark.
The only downsides—which depend on perspective—are the widely spaced sockets (3 feet apart) and the fact that hooks are needed for hanging the string lights on a structure as we did. However, they could wind around columns or posts without hooks. While we tested just one strand of these lights, connecting a second string for double the illumination is possible.
Get the Lemontec outdoor string lights at Amazon.
Enhance the mood for any season or holiday with this set of color-changing string lights. The Enbrighten string lights have 16 color choices that create up to 120 possible combinations, adding a pop of color to any outdoor space.
The 48-foot weatherproof strand features 24 Edison-style bulbs. Each impact-resistant acrylic bulb uses only 1 watt of power and produces a warm glow. The included remote allows users to switch among single solid colors, two-color combinations, and various preset color modes for festivities like Christmas and Saint Patrick’s Day.
The 2,200K warm glow sets a bright, inviting mood when set to the white-light setting. With the handy remote, we were able to set a 2- or 4-hour timer, choose from 10 dimmable light levels, or select fade and strobe features. We hung the Enbrighten string lights around the inside perimeter of a covered porch—each bulb socket required a small hook inserted in the overhead ceiling to hold the lights. The addition of gutter clips would have been helpful.
These are impressive solid acrylic LED bulbs, and because they’re billed as “shatterproof,” we tested that claim by dropping them from head height to the concrete patio below. Not only did none of the acrylic bulbs crack or chip, but we couldn’t even find a scuff mark. For those who want to select specific colors to set a mood, the Enbrighten lights do not disappoint. Since we hung them on a covered patio ceiling, they were somewhat protected by a rainstorm that affected most of the other sets we tested. But they still got dripping wet—yet it didn’t seem to affect them at all.
Get the Enbrighten outdoor string lights at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
Fairy lights bring an instant warm ambience to a garden or patio space. This 99-foot fairy light strand from Twinkle Star is an excellent pick for decorative accent lighting.
The long strand includes 300 tiny LED string lights on a copper wire. The copper wiring can be wrapped around trees, bushes, and columns, or strung along walls and ceilings, but we obtained the best effect by concentrating them in a small space.
These are tiny little specks of LED bulbs woven along the surface of a coated copper wire. Some of the other light sets we tested were bright enough to allow reading after dark; this set is not. Its best feature lies in creating a magical effect when the copper string is kept in a compact space. We created a nighttime centerpiece by looping the copper wire inside a glass vase. The result was spectacular—a romantic centerpiece perfect for a memorable outdoor dinner for two.
The Twinkle Star fairy lights are advertised as water-resistant, so we misted the entire coil with water from a spray bottle and let it dry. Then, we turned on the fairy lights again, and they came right on. While the remote has eight lighting options, a couple of the flashing ones are pretty annoying and distracting. The others, which feature slow on/off fading effects and solid illumination, made the Twinkle Star lights the star of our nighttime table.
Get the Twinkle Star outdoor string lights at Amazon.
For a classic cafe or bistro lighting look, choose a strand of globe string lights. These outdoor string lights from Brightown not only look stylish but are also a durable and energy-saving option.
The 50-foot strand features 50 plastic LED string lights to provide a shatterproof and low-cost outdoor lighting option. Each bulb uses only 1 watt of energy for beautiful outdoor lighting without a huge electric bill.
Each G40 bulb provides 40 lumens of light with a 2,200K color temperature for a warm wash of light. Users can connect up to seven of these waterproof strands to create a range of pretty outdoor lighting layouts, ideal for outdoor events or entertaining at home.
This is the second Brightown pick that made it into our lineup. The difference between this set and the Best Overall set is that these are made with shatterproof LED globe lights rather than incandescent glass bulbs. As such, they’re well suited for display even in harsh winds and weather. Dropping the string of lights on the concrete from head height didn’t faze them—no cracks and just one tiny scuff that might have already been there.
The acrylic globe lights are as clear as glass, and the LED filaments emit a warm, goldish-yellow luminosity. Like the other Brightown set, these string lights are dimmable—we connected them to a dimmer cord and took them down to barely a glow. Plus, they come with gutter clips for easy hanging on the edge of a rain gutter, cable, wire, or string.
Get the Brightown solar outdoor string lights at Amazon.
These waterproof, solar-powered string lights from Brightech ended up being one of our favorites. Not only can they be hung anywhere because they don’t require an electrical outlet, but we also found them still glowing brightly the next morning. The 27-foot strand on these solar string lights features 12 shatterproof plastic LED bulbs. Each G40 bulb gives off a warm 3,000K light.
These solar-powered string lights are advertised as needing 6 hours of direct sunlight to power the bulbs for 6 hours of illumination, but in our experience, they emitted light for at least 10 hours on a single solar charge.
The solar panel can be installed just about anywhere using the included stake or clip, as long as it receives direct light during the day. The solar string lights come with commercial-grade WeatherTite technology, meaning they can withstand rain, snow, heat, and winds up to 50 miles per hour.
These solar LED string lights weathered a rainstorm without any problems and then lit up the following evening. They also survived our drop test without any cracks. While some solar-powered lights emit only soft illumination, the Brightech lights were just as bright as any other string of lights we tested—quite an achievement for solar-powered lights. After a sunny day, they emitted sufficient light for us to sit beneath and read our magazines long after the sun went down.
Get the Brightech outdoor string lights at Amazon or Lowe’s.
Battery-powered outdoor string lights are easy to install and maintain. This two-pack of battery-powered LED lights from OxyLED is a versatile option for small apartment balconies or spacious backyards. Using only six AA batteries (three per strand—not included), they provide a gentle glow for any outdoor space.
Each waterproof strand measures 49 feet in length and features 100 LED mini lights. The bulbs give off a warm white glow and are encased in a durable plastic globe. To set the ambience, choose between eight lighting modes. Options like steady lighting, slow fade, and twinkle mode add a fun twist to these basic outdoor string lights.
We opted to enjoy the OxyLED string lights as a nighttime centerpiece rather than wind them around columns or tree branches. These are small LED lights; each white globe light is just ½-inch in diameter, and the plastic globes mimic white frosted glass.
We scrolled through the lighting modes using the remote, but we didn’t care for the flashing strobe effect that seemed better suited to a dance party than the calm outdoor ambience we desired. The other modes are soft and soothing. We test-dropped the strings, and none of the globe lights cracked. Then, we misted the lights with water, and they continued shining. These are not super-bright lights, so don’t expect to hang them up and read late at night. They’re better suited as groupings to create a pleasing effect.
Get the OxyLED outdoor string lights at Amazon.
Measuring 102 feet in length, these dimmable string lights from Banord are well suited to spacious backyards or large events like a wedding or a big barbecue. The heavy-duty strand features 34 S14 Edison-style bulbs, providing an ambient 2,700K warm white light.
The LED plastic bulbs are shatterproof and energy-saving. They’re also dimmable, so users can adjust the lighting level depending on the occasion. Users can connect up to 12 strands if more length is needed to create a striking lighting layout. With a waterproof and weather-resistant design, these sturdy outdoor string lights are suitable for year-round use.
We hung the Banord string lights under a metal arch that frames a pathway between cedar trees. With a hefty 102 feet to work with, the Banord lights spanned the length of the arch three entire times and we still had a few feet left over. At full illumination, the three overhead strings lit up the whole walkway so well, that we were able to put lounge chairs out after dark and read our books and magazines with ease. We were also able to dim the lights to a soft golden glow, which created an intimate romantic effect.
The Banord lights, like other Edison-style bulbs we reviewed, don’t come with clips, but they do feature a hole above each socket where users can attach a wire. We cut 4-inch pieces of baling wire and used those to attach each socket to the metal bars of the arch. The Banord lights were left outdoors for a few nights and were unaffected by a rainstorm. We dropped them on the concrete patio to simulate accidental dropping or being tossed about in strong winds, and all the lights survived without a single crack. Although we tested just one strand, users can connect up to 12 strands of light—enough to illuminate a large area.
Get the Banord outdoor string lights at Amazon.
The first thing we noticed about the Feit Electric String Lights is the box’s weight. It was heavy for containing just a 48-foot string. While it weighs just under 9 pounds, the bulk of that weight comes from its super-duty cord made from thick flexible rubber.
We started by hanging the Feit lights on the gable of an exterior outbuilding, but to get the bulbs close enough together to have a real visual impact, we had to loop the cord in between attachment points. The bulb sockets are 24 inches apart, which is well suited for installing in multiple rows overhead but too far apart for most accent lighting. The light strand uses 24 watts of electricity, and additional sets can be connected if more light is desired.
For a more concentrated lighting effect, we then coiled the Feit lights over a horizontal bar, arranging the bulbs closely, and the effect was stunning! In this configuration, we were able to read our books and magazines after dark. We were able to dim the string of lights by connecting them to a dimmer cord, and at their lowest illumination, they offer just a hint of light that’s soft and soothing.
The Feit lights survived both the rainstorm and our drop test and kept working. In addition to evaluating this string of light for this lineup, we chose this particular model for more extensive testing, and it can be read on our Feit Individual String Light Review.
Get the Feit outdoor string lights at Amazon or Costco.
A simple strand of string lights can transform a plain backyard into an inviting outdoor space. Compared with many other types of outdoor and patio lights, string lights are among the most affordable and easiest to install. When choosing the best string lights for your space, consider the light type, the size and shape, brightness, and color. A weather-resistant design, a lengthy cord, and remote or app control features can make outdoor string lights safer and easier to use.
Most outdoor string lights feature LED, incandescent, solar, or battery-operated bulbs. Each type varies in durability, energy efficiency, and lifespan. When shopping for outdoor string lights, consider which type of lighting is most suitable for the space.
Since outdoor string lights are exposed to the elements, selecting a set that stands up to rainy conditions and heavy gusts of wind is important. It’s inconvenient to take the string lights down every time there’s inclement weather in the forecast.
First, check the product description to determine if the lights are intended for outdoor use. Using indoor lighting outside creates a potential fire hazard. Second, make sure the product is water-resistant (or waterproof—even spots under a porch or gazebo roof can grow damp in bad weather). Weather-resistant lights can handle direct exposure to water and feature watertight seals to protect their interior parts from accumulating moisture and causing safety issues.
String light bulbs are available in a variety of styles and shapes, which can give the strands a unique aesthetic. For example, tiny circle fairy lights make an outdoor area feel whimsical, while larger oval-shaped Edison bulbs add a vintage look. Globe bulbs, Edison bulbs, lantern bulbs, fairy lights, and rope lights are among the most popular styles.
When choosing a bulb size, consider the available outdoor space, ease of installation, and desired look.
Small bulbs are a good pick for small outdoor spaces; they won’t overpower a space or other outdoor decorations. These bulbs are generally more subtle, providing gentle background lighting. They provide less light and are commonly chosen for decorative purposes.
Large bulbs are more striking and offer a bolder look. Their larger size can provide more direct illumination. They are generally brighter and are well suited for larger spaces that need more lighting. Large decorative bulbs, like globe bulbs and Edison bulbs, can make a style statement.
Keep in mind that bulb size can affect installation. String lights with small bulbs are generally lightweight and easier to maneuver. They may be easier to install than string lights with larger, heavier, and bulkier bulbs.
Most globe outdoor string light bulbs come in one of three bulb sizes:
Most Edison-style string light bulbs are an S14 bulb size, which is a medium-size, oval-shaped bulb that’s 32 millimeters (just over 1.25 inches) in diameter.
Brightness and color temperature are two of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the appearance of outdoor string lights.
Lumens measure the amount of light output from a bulb—the more lumens, the brighter the bulb. When deciding on bulb brightness, take into account the desired lighting effect. String light bulbs can range from 5 to more than 100 lumens per bulb. Users often choose string lights for their glowy appearance rather than their brightness, so lower lumens often do just fine to set the mood. Lumens are different from wattage, as wattage measures how much power a bulb consumes and not necessarily how bright a light appears.
Lighting color temperature is measured using the Kelvin (K) temperature scale. This scale measures how warm or cool the light appears. Lower numbers on the Kelvin scale look warmer, and higher numbers look cooler.
Most home lighting falls between 2,000K and 6,000K. Bulbs around 2,700K have a cozy, warm white color with a yellow hue, while bulbs over 5,000K offer stark, crisp lighting with a blue hue. Warm lighting makes a space look more cozy and inviting, while cool lighting can often appear harsh, especially at night. For this reason, warmer bulbs are generally preferred for ambient outdoor lighting.
Outdoor string lights typically come in lengths of 10, 25, 35, 50, and 100 feet. Consider the size of the outdoor space and the lighting layout when choosing the ideal wire length.
Patio string lights can outline garden borders, wrap around banisters and trees, or suspend over seating spaces. The best way to determine the necessary wire length is to use a piece of twine to measure where the lights will go. Make sure to include enough length to reach the outlet if it requires corded power, or keep an extension cord handy.
For lining one side of an average balcony or small porch, a 10-foot string of outdoor patio lights may do the trick. A small 6-by-8-foot patio space typically requires 25 to 50 feet of string lighting. A medium 12-by-12-foot outdoor space may need 50 to 100 feet of string lighting, depending on the desired layout. For more spacious areas or to illuminate a large event, more than 100 feet of string lighting is usually necessary.
For those who want to upgrade from basic string lights, consider a product with extra features like color-changing bulbs, dimming options, and remote control or app operation. As we found in our tests, by selecting different bulb colors, we could create entirely different moods.
String lights can instantly transform a typical yard or patio into a warm and inviting space, but choosing the right set of lights is a must for creating the desired ambience. Still considering the best outdoor string lights for your space? Read on for answers to some frequently asked questions about selecting and installing outdoor string lights.
White light is the most effective lighting color since it is closest to natural light. Warm white lights have a glowy yellow tinge that is cozy and inviting, making them a popular pick for outdoor lighting. Colorful bulbs, such as the Enbrighten LED Color Changing String Lights, are often chosen for their ambience rather than their lighting ability. These lights add a decorative flair and can be a fun addition for different seasons and holidays.
Lemontec Commercial Grade Outdoor String Lights offer fifteen 11-watt incandescent bulbs and are one of the best options in the lineup for those seeking a brighter set of outdoor string lights. Plus, additional sets can be connected for even more illumination.
Yes, some weather-resistant and weatherproof string lights can be left outdoors. Be sure to check their specifications to make sure the lights can handle changing weather and temperature conditions year-round.
The easiest way to hang lights is to use existing fixtures or wrap them around columns and railings that surround a patio. If necessary, create hanging options by using heavy-duty sticky hooks, metal hooks, or nails where needed.
Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.
Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.
Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. She and her husband own a general contracting company, and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial building applications. She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.
Additional research provided by Jamie Birdwell-Branson and Jasmine Harding.
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