The best solar porch light should do more than lighting your porch and helping you cut the power bills: It should also serve as a valuable addition to your property in terms of décor as well as security.
For this reason, we have included both motion sensor solar lights and conventional spotlights, all in various designs.
The list below comprises the top 7 best solar porch lights, and we have reviewed each in depth, capturing all the key features while also highlighting the pros and cons.
Continue reading to see our top recommendations…
Table of Contents
In a hurry? If you don’t have much time use the links below to quickly find the Best Solar Porch Lights for you on Amazon. You can be assured we only choose the best products…
- Best Value: Gama Sonic GS- 122
- Popular Choice: Litom 12 Led Solar Spotlights
- Premium Choice: Otdair Solar Security Lights
Top 7 Best Solar Porch Lights in 2021
Solar Porch Lights | Name and Brand | Key Feature | Our Rating | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
Gama Sonic GS- 122 | Easy to install | 4.1 | $$ | |
Otdair Solar Security Lights for Porch | Brightness | 4.5 | $ | |
6 pack Towkka Solar Lights for Porch | IP65 waterproof solar light | 4.4 | $ | |
LITOM 12 LED Solar Spotlights for Porch | Easy to assemble | 4.4 | $$ | |
iThird Solar Lights for Porch | Weatherproof | 4.2 | $ | |
JACKYLED 1000 Lumens Solar Lights for Porch | Value for money | 4.2 | $ | |
Otdair Solar Wall Lantern for front porch | Thickness | 4.1 | $$ |
1) Gama Sonic GS- 122 Barn – Best Value
Key Features:
- Gooseneck design
- Auto on at dusk and off at dawn
- 10 hour of lighting
- Separate light fixture and solar panel (8 feet long connecting cable)
- Replaceable battery
Why we like it:
This Gama Sonic Solar light tops our list of the best solar porch lights for a number of reasons:
First, this fixture is built to last. Starting from the mono-crystalline solar panel that features a weather resistant tempered glass for protection, to the cast-aluminum housing that withstands any weather conditions, this light will serve you for a long time.
It is water-resistant and rust-resistant, so it remains in a perfect condition even after years of outdoor exposure.
Second, we like its ease of installation. It’s designed to go on the wall, and even if you have not mounted such a light before, you will have this up and working in no time.
Plus, the light fixture is separate from the solar panel. This gives you the freedom to install the solar panel up to 8 feet away, thus allowing you to find the perfect spot with direct sunlight for quick charging.
Third, this is a super stylish solar light for a porch. The design stands out in a good way, and the finish, a matte brown powder-coat, makes it look even better. And, you will also love the glass dome with a bubble-like appearance.
Lastly, we love the auto on at dusk and off at down feature, because you don’t have to be around to switch it on and off at the right time.
Pros
- Large solar panel (7 x 7 inches) and easy to clean
- Replaceable Li-Ion battery included
- Easy to install on any surface
- Classy design
- Down-to-dusk feature
- It charges fast and stays on all night
Cons
- The light is stationary, so it cannot be tilted, which might be a little limiting for people who would like it facing a certain direction, but you can tilt the solar panel.
Verdict:
There is so much to love about this solar light, and it’s worth buying. It is bright at 120 lumens, and will stay on throughout the night with proper charging. The trick is to get a good spot to install the solar panel for direct sunlight exposure, and this is easy since it is separate with an 8 feet long cable.
Note: This doesn’t have a motion sensor, but you can get the Gama Sonic GS-122PIR01 with a motion sensor. It’s in the same design and features, with the addition of a motion sensor.
2) Otdair Solar Security Lights for Porch – Premium Choice
Key Features:
- 3 head motion sensor lights
- 360° rotatable
- IP65 waterproof
- 70 LED Flood lights
- Built-in light sensor
Why we like it
These porch solar lights by Otdair are not only bright but also 360° rotatable. This gives you the convenience to light whichever direction with ease. If you have a big porch, this is the light to go for because the multi-joint rotatable design gives them a wider coverage, and you can rotate each spotlight independently.
Again, this is a solar motion sensor light with a low light sensor. It makes a great alternative to Gama Sonic GS-122PIR01 with a sensor and it comes at a lower price.
It can sense motion from as far as 33 feet and at a range of 120°. The lights go on for 30 seconds, after which they will automatically go off.
The design and construction
The most appealing part for this solar light’s design is the independently adjustable spotlight and solar panel. It features a multi-joint 360° rotatable design that allows you to effortlessly illuminate whichever side of your porch.
Again, the entire construction is IP65 weatherproof, meaning the lights are suitable for use in any weather condition.
Also, as long as the solar panel is getting enough and direct sunlight, these lights can remain on for 30 hours. And, because the solar panel is strong, the battery, Lithium 2200mAh, will be fully charged in no time even at low light.
Pros
- Motion sensor solar light
- Dusk to dawn lighting feature (Auto on/off at dusk and dawn)
- Charges fast and lasts longer (up to 30 hours)
- IP65 waterproof
- Built-in battery
Cons
- It’s a motion activated solar light, thus doesn’t stay on all night. It might not be ideal for people who want their porch lit throughout.
Verdict
This solar light is definitely fit for a porch. It is bright with the convenience of rotating either light in a different direction for more coverage. It is also ideal to use in any weather condition and no doubts about the durability. However, if you want a porch light that will remain on throughout the night, this might not be the best fit since it’s only motion-triggered.
3) 6 pack Towkka Solar Lights for Porch
Key Features:
- 270° lighting angle (three side luminescence)
- IP65 waterproof solar light
- Solar motion sensor feature
- 3 optional lighting modes
- 120 LED solar lights
Why we like it
These are super bright solar porch lights with 2200mAh Li-ion rechargeable batteries to provide stable lighting for long once fully charged.
With a 270° maximum illumination range, these lights will cover a wider area thus eliminating the need for extra lights.
Again, they have 3 different lighting modes to meet various lighting needs. You can have them at the “constant on” mode where they remain on at a medium light. You can also choose the “dim light” mode where they only change to strong light once they detect motion. And lastly, you can choose just the “motion sensor” mode where they turn on brightly when motion is detected.
And, these lights have enhanced PIR motion sensor that enables them to detect motion up to 19.6 feet and at 120° range, hence providing better safety and convenience when you come back late.
When at the motion sensor mode, the lights will automatically go off after 15 seconds if no motion is detected, thus saving energy.
The design and construction
To ensure that they are ideal for all-weather use, the lights are IP65 waterproof rated, which means that you can use them throughout the year, as long as the batteries are charged.
Also, they are made of high-impact and durable ABS material, which also enables them to withstand harsh weather conditions such as extreme heat, snow, rainstorms, etc.
When it comes to installation, these lights are super easy to install and they come with everything needed for installation.
Pros
- Three side luminescence (270°)
- Three optional lighting modes
- Motion sensor
- Comes with the batteries
- Easy to install
Cons
- They need enough sunlight to remain on throughout the night.
Verdict
These lights work well and are bright. The three different lighting modes gives you the convenience of choosing what works best for you. They are also waterproof, heatproof, and frostproof. This means you can use them anywhere, throughout the year. For the price, functionality, and durability, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t invest in them.
4) LITOM 12 LED Solar Spotlights for Porch – Popular Choice
Key Features:
- 18650 lithium rechargeable battery
- 120° lighting angle
- 2 different lighting modes
- IP67 waterproof rated
- Two installation options
Why we like it:
The package includes a 4 pack of nice warm white solar porch spotlights with 12 LEDs for brighter illumination. They are also designed to cover up to 120° lighting angle, which is wide enough for most porches.
Moreover, these lights are IP67 waterproof rated, meaning they are ideal for outdoor use. They will still work even when it’s raining or snowing, and they will also withstand strong sun heat. Again, the design is just unique in a good way, and also more practical.
Functionality
When it comes to lighting your porch, these lights offer two options. The lights will always be on but you can choose the low lighting mode that stays on for up to 12 hours or go with the high lighting mode that stays on for up to 6 hours.
Also, apart from the two lighting modes, these lights also have the auto on/off feature where they automatically switch to energy storage mode once the sun is up, and automatically on at night. This is a very convenient feature because you will always have an illuminated porch even when you are not around.
Further, the lights are super easy to install. They allow for two installation options where you can choose to mount them on the wall or stick them into the ground if you don’t want to drill holes on your wall. For the wall installation, the lights come with the required screws.
Pros
- Two installation options
- Two lighting modes
- Auto on/off
- IP67 waterproof technology
- Simple and functional design
Cons
- Has no motion sensor, but has a high light mode and low light mode
Verdict:
If you are looking for an easy to install and highly functional solar porch light, this is a great option.
The lights are very durable, ideal for outdoor use, and easy to select either mode. The lighting angle also gives enough coverage for a porch and the battery lasts long whilst you always ensure that the solar panel is properly exposed to direct sunlight.
5) iThird Solar Lights for Porch
Key Features:
- 3 optional motion activated lighting modes
- Dusk to dawn sensor light feature
- IP44 waterproof rated and rustproof
- Made of stainless steel and ABS material
- Replaceable 2200mAh lithium battery
Why we like it:
First, this solar light charges very fast as it takes just 4.5 hours, which gives you 8-12 hours of lighting.
Second, it has three adjustable motion activated lighting modes: dim light mode that remains dim throughout the night until motion is detected where it becomes brighter for 37 seconds then goes back to dim.
The second mode is the sensor mode that remains off throughout the night until motion is detected then it becomes brighter for 37 seconds and then it goes off.
The third mode is the “always on mode” where the light remains brightly on for five hours then goes to dim mode for the next five hours.
And, setting the different modes is easy since they are all in different colors, green, blue, and red, respectively.
The second thing that we like about this solar light is the auto dusk-to-dawn motion sensor feature as you won’t have to switch the light on or off manually in the morning and night, which helps save the stored solar energy.
The design and construction
We like this light’s simple, but classy design. It doesn’t have much going on, so if you already like your porch as it is and don’t want to interfere with the overall décor, this is a nice and quiet addition.
It is made from stainless steel and ABS materials, thus it won’t rust even when exposed to the outdoor weather for long, and it’s generally durable. The light is waterproof and rustproof, thus it will do okay in any weather condition.
Pros
- Very bright
- Highly responsive motion detector
- The solar panel is big for faster charging
- Comes with a large capacity battery
Cons
- 37 seconds of lighting once motion is detected might not be enough in some instances. It could be better if there was a way of making adjustments.
Verdict
This is a nice solar porch light to invest in. When installing it, you have the option to have it point down or sideways such that the light spreads across for a longer coverage. However, you must ensure that the solar panel gets the best exposure to the sunlight for better charging.
Again, this light features an upgraded motion sensor version for a better detection angle. As such, it is more effective. And, the installation process is easy plus the batteries are replaceable.
6) JACKYLED 1000 Lumens Solar Lights for Porch
Key Features:
- 55oomAh battery
- 48 LED solar lights
- Allows separated installation
- IP65 weatherproof rated
Why we like it
This solar light for porch gives you the convenience of installing the solar panel and the LED lamp panel separately. This way, you will have an easier time installing the solar panel where it will get maximum sunlight exposure, and the lamp where you want the most light.
Again, the solar panel is wider, thus has a larger surface area for more sunlight absorption. Also, it has an ultra-large battery, 5500mAh, which stores enough solar energy to brightly light up your porch for up to 12 hours when there is enough sunlight.
What’s more, this solar light is super bright as it features 48 LED beads, ultra bright, giving out 1000 lumens. It also has 120° coverage angle, and you can easily rotate the lamp horizontally to illuminate the desired direction.
Design and construction
This is another solar light with a simple yet practical design. It is rotatable horizontally and you can install it separately as mentioned earlier.
It is also weatherproof, which is a must have for outdoor fixtures for it to withstand any weather condition. It’s also very durable since it’s made from strong ABS & PC material.
Lastly, the light is very easy to install and uninstall, plus it comes with the needed bracket and screw.
Pros
- 2 ways installation
- IP65 waterproof rated
- Made of quality materials
- Very bright
- Rotatable horizontally
Cons
- Has no motion sensor
- Has no different lighting modes
Verdict
A few things stand out for this solar light: a wider solar panel for faster charging, a larger capacity battery (5500mAh) that lasts longer, the option for separate installation, and the rotatable lamp. Generally, this is a great solar porch light if motion sensor is not a priority.
7) Otdair Solar Wall Lantern for front porch
Key Features:
- 2 Pcs glass hanging solar lantern
- Waterproof
- High-sensitive light sensor (Auto on/off)
- Lights for 8-10 hours once fully charged
Why we like it
This solar light is perfectly designed for outdoor use.
First, it’s a premium quality construction with high quality materials, making it an all-weather solar light. The light will perfectly withstand all the rain and snow, plus all levels of temperatures. Once installed, the light remains in a great condition because it can’t rust.
Second, it features a super effective dusk to dawn light sensor. The light will automatically turn on at dusk, then go off once the sun rises. With this light, you don’t need a timer or a separate extension. This one feature will not only save you from the manual operation hassle, but also help you save more energy.
Again, the light is bright with a wide angle coverage.
The design and construction
This solar light is designed using the one-piece molding technology. As such, it leaves no room for rusting or damage by harsh weather conditions. Also, as mentioned before, it is made from stainless steel plus a perfectly done glass housing, meaning it will remain just as you bought it even after using it for a long time.
More so, the light is weather resistant and it is tested and qualified as waterproof, heat resistant, and frost resistance. Thus, this is a good choice for people living in areas that experience all sorts of weather conditions.
When it comes to installation, this light is super easy to install and it looks great. It has a classy look especially because it has a clear coat finish, which also means less dust. The design is also great and fits a porch perfectly.
Pros
- It’s a hanging wall light
- Very easy to install and comes with the needed brackets and mounting screws
- Charges fast, 6-8 hours, and lights longer, 8-10 hours
- Has an auto on/off feature
Cons
- It’s not a motion sensor light, but it compensates this with the dusk-till-dawn feature
Verdict
The light works well as a porch solar light, especially for people who like bright porch light. It doesn’t have a motion sensor nor different lighting modes like the Gama Sonic GS- 122PIR01, but the dusk to dawn sensor feature appeals to most.
It features a great design that goes well with a porch, and it’s weather resistant.
Wrapping up
The search for the best solar porch lights is worth it because these lights are actually valuable additions to your home. They are the best option when you want efficient and energy-saving lights. Some options are also very convenient since they have the auto on/off features and different lighting modes.
From our list above, our overall winner is the Gama Sonic GS-122 outdoor solar light for no motion sensor option, and the Gama Sonic GS-122PIR01 for those who need an outdoor solar light with a motion sensor.
First, if you need a stylish solar light for your porch, this product will be the perfect fit. The gooseneck design and the matte brown finish gives it a classy look.
Second, this is a super durable solar light. It is water-resistant and rust resistant. Even when exposed to harsh weather conditions, this light will withstand them all and still provide an optimal performance.
Third, for Gama Sonic GS-122PIR01, the motion sensor is very sensitive since it detects any movement from 15 feet away, where the brightness goes up to 150 lumens.
Lastly, it’s a bright light and when properly charged, it will stay on throughout the night.
As a side note, you should ensure that your solar panel is installed and positioned in a way that it will obtain enough sun rays for quick charging… Also, the battery capacity matters if you want your solar light to stay on throughout the night. And, check to see if the solar panel and the light fixture are built to withstand outdoor exposure plus all the different weather conditions.
We hope that you will get the right porch light from this list, and if you do, let us know how it’s working for you in our comment section.