Solar String & Fairy Lights

Solar string lights are an easy way to light a patio, pergola or porch with no outlet needed.

• Bulb style. Edison-style and globe bulbs suit patios; fine copper-wire fairy lights suit trees, railings and planters. Shatterproof plastic bulbs are safer than glass in windy spots.
• Length. Measure the run, including the drop to the panel. Check whether strings can be linked; many solar sets cannot.
• Panel. A panel on a stake or with a mounting bracket and a long lead gives more placement options.
• Modes and switch. Look for a steady-on mode and an on/off switch.
• Weather rating. IP65 for the panel and IP44 or better for bulbs are good minimums.

Most solar strings give soft ambient light rather than task lighting. For festive sets, see solar Christmas lights; for portable light, see solar lanterns.