The 9 Best Mounted Solar Lights, Tested and Reviewed

Final Verdict

Overall, we recommend the Maxsa Solar-Powered Dual-Head LED Security Spotlight for its 160 lumens of brightness, motion sensor capabilities, and light activity time, which allows you to tailor the light’s functionality depending on your needs. For a budget-friendly pick, we recommend the HMCity Outdoor Mounting Solar Lights, which includes motion sensors, too. 

Our Testing Process

We tested 19 outdoor mounted solar lights and assessed each model based on ease of installation, features, design, brightness, durability, and value over two weeks. First, we unpacked the lights and noted whether any assembly was required, then evaluated the quality of the parts and how easily they connected during the process. We also timed the assembly process from start to finish. 

After assembling the lights, we followed the manufacturer’s instructions for installation—observing how challenging the instructions were, whether the light included the required mounting hardware, and the duration of the entire installation process, again using a timer from start to finish. 

Once we installed the lights, we spent the following two weeks reviewing the functionality of each model. We took note of whether the light dimmed or faded, recharged reliably, and if we had to make adjustments to properly recharge the solar panels. While the brightness of solar lights depends partially on the type of fixture and whether they’re ambient or security lights, we also considered whether the illumination was in alignment with each type.

Many of the outdoor mounted solar lights we reviewed have unique features, like multiple settings and colors, motion sensors, dusk-to-dawn modes, and smart capabilities. We utilized each of these additional functions (when applicable) and noted their ease of use and effectiveness. If there were any significant weather events or adverse conditions during the testing period, we evaluated each product’s durability—like whether the lights were damaged or became less effective over time. 

After evaluating the mounted solar lights for two weeks, we reviewed the price of each product and scored its overall value, factoring in its performance in the above tests.

How to Shop for Mounted Solar Lights Like a Pro 

Brightness

Before selecting mounted solar lights for your yard, consider how bright you want your outdoor space to be. Brightness is typically measured in lumens, and the higher the number, the brighter the light will be. If you’re adding solar lights for ambient or accent lighting, opt for a product with a maximum of 100 to 200 lumens. But for those who are in search of a security light, we recommend significantly bumping up the brightness to between 700 and 1,300 lumens.

Space

You’ll need to consider the size of the outdoor space you want to illuminate. The larger the space, the more lights (or brighter lights) you will typically need. While lighting up a pathway or steps won’t require as much light, areas like a large patio could benefit from more light, depending on your desired effect.

“Lighting can really help make an outdoor space come alive at night,” Freda says. “It adds soft ambient lighting that can turn beautiful plants or trees into interesting focal points in the garden.”

You should also think about how your solar lights will mesh with your existing decor and color palette. “I would look for a color that goes with the trim or furniture that’s usually in the space already,” Freda adds. “The most common colors are black or brown, so take a look at the space ahead of time and make sure you find a good match that makes sense with the aesthetic.”

Sun Exposure 

How well your mounted solar lights function greatly depends on the amount of sunlight they get every day, so the more sun exposure, the better. For lights to stay on for eight hours, they’ll need at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight during the day. That said, solar lights can still charge with indirect sunlight or even in shade, though their output will decrease. If you plan on using your solar lights daily, we recommend installing them in places with as much direct sunlight as possible. 

Weather-Resistance Rating

Most outdoor mounted solar lighting is designed with materials that can withstand inclement weather, low temperatures, water, and direct sunlight. But if durability and quality are high on your list of considerations, look for products with high weather-resistance ratings. This is often listed on product listings as an Ingress Protection (IP) rating, like IP65. The first number is how well it can stand up to dust and debris, while the second number refers to how airtight it is. The higher the number, the more durable the light. And if you see an X in the IP rating, keep in mind that the light does not offer any protection in that category. 

Special Features

While these features aren’t a must on outdoor mounted solar lights, they can add functionality and enhance your user experience.

Multiple Modes: Creating a dreamy outdoor landscape can be as simple as installing outdoor solar lights with various patterns and/or color modes. This feature can transform the ambiance of your patio, garden, or deck by simply pressing a button. "It can also be used to highlight other features, such as a fountain or statue," Freda says.

Smart Capabilities: For those who want to seamlessly set timers and adjust brightness from their phone, mounted solar lights with smart capabilities can allow you to remotely toggle between settings. The Ring Solar Floodlight stood out in our testing for its smart capabilities that can be integrated into your existing smart-home setup, with either a Bridge (sold separately) or a compatible Echo device.

Motion Sensors: Whether you’re lighting a pitch-black pathway or integrating an outdoor security light, a motion sensor will come in handy. Rather than burning through the charge, motion sensor solar lights turn on only when necessary, ensuring they don’t run out of battery. Most solar lights with motion sensors can be toggled to a traditional mode, so you can opt for either function depending on the occasion. 

Dusk-to-Dawn Modes: Rather than turning on your solar-powered lights every night, some options come with a convenient dusk-to-dawn mode that will automatically turn on the lights around sunset and turn them off around sunrise. This is especially helpful for people who would rather “set and forget” their solar lights.

More Mounted Solar Lights to Consider

Gama Sonic Solar Barn Light: These mounted solar lights were very easy to install, however we found that they were lacking in terms of features and brightness settings. We also wished that there was a way to hide the unsightly 7-foot cord.

Tuffenough Outdoor Solar Lights With Wall Mount and Motion Sensor: These motion sensor lights have multiple modes and an impressive brightness of 2,500 lumens. While they are a quality option for those who want solar lights for security purposes, they don't have any additional standout features.

Questions You Might Ask

What are the brightest outdoor solar lights? 

The brightness of most lights is communicated in lumens, which measure how much light is emitted per second. The brightest lights on this list are the Aootek Mounted Outdoor Solar Lights, with 2,500 lumens, according to the manufacturer. 

Are mounted outdoor solar lights worth it?

Since mounted outdoor solar lights don’t use electricity, they might help you save money in the long run—especially since they don’t require an electrician or expert assembly. “Solar lights are usually pretty reasonably priced compared to electric lights, and they are also better for the environment, two factors which make them worth the investment,” Freda says.

Plus, there are plenty of benefits to using solar lights outside your home. “Lights can deter home invaders and pests like raccoons,” Knopfler says. “Outdoor lighting is great when you come home late and need to find your keys, or safely make your way up pathways and stairs.”

How long do solar lights last?

Once installed, outdoor solar lights can function for years to come with very little maintenance, making them an ideal choice for any backyard, garden, patio, or path. The batteries can last for two to three years before they need replacement, while the LED bulbs used in solar lights can last for 10 years or more. 

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Quinn Gawronski, associate commerce editor for Real Simple, who has three years of experience writing and editing product reviews and roundups. To compile this list, we tested 19 outdoor mounted solar lights and evaluated them on setup, brightness, bonus features, durability, and overall value. We observed the functionality of these outdoor mounted solar lights for two weeks before providing feedback based on their experience. For expert tips, we consulted with Amber Freda, a New York City-based landscape designer, and Sheva Knopfler, co-founder and creative director of Lights.com, for their tips for selecting the best outdoor mounted solar lights for your space.

What Is Real Simple Selects?

Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn't an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company.

Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.