What Is the Best Outdoor String Lights for Your Backyard

The best outdoor string lights combine durability, brightness, and smart features to transform your backyard into a stunning nighttime retreat. Top picks like the Brightech Ambience Pro and Philips Hue Outdoor offer weatherproof designs, customizable lighting, and easy installation for year-round use. Choose based on your needs—whether it’s energy-efficient LEDs, app-controlled ambiance, or vintage-style bulbs—to create the perfect outdoor vibe.

Key Takeaways

• Choose weatherproof lights: Ensure durability with IP65 or higher-rated outdoor string lights.
• Opt for LED bulbs: Save energy and enjoy longer lifespan with efficient LEDs.
• Measure your space: Buy 10–20% extra length for flexible installation and coverage.
• Smart features enhance use: Pick dimmable or app-controlled lights for ambiance customization.
• Prioritize shatterproof design: Stay safe with plastic or silicone-coated bulbs in high-traffic areas.
• Layer lighting for depth: Combine string lights with spotlights or lanterns for a dynamic look.

Why Outdoor String Lights Are a Backyard Game-Changer

Picture this: It’s a warm summer evening, and you’re lounging in your backyard with friends. The sun has dipped below the horizon, and the air is filled with laughter and the soft glow of string lights strung overhead. There’s something magical about that ambiance—it’s not just about visibility; it’s about creating a mood, a vibe, a memory. Outdoor string lights can transform even the most ordinary backyard into a cozy, inviting oasis.

But with so many options on the market, how do you pick the *best outdoor string lights* for your space? Are you looking for durability, brightness, energy efficiency, or just plain style? Maybe you’ve had a bad experience with lights that fizzled out after one season or tangled into a knotted mess. Trust me, I’ve been there. The right string lights should be easy to install, weather-resistant, and—above all—enhance your outdoor experience. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to find the perfect fit for your backyard, whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a quiet night, or just want to make your outdoor space feel a little more like home.

What to Look for in the Best Outdoor String Lights

Before diving into specific products, let’s talk about the key features that separate the best outdoor string lights from the rest. Think of this as your checklist—these are the factors that matter most, based on real-world use and common pain points.

Weather Resistance: Built to Last

Outdoor lights face rain, wind, sun, and even snow. Look for IP65 or higher ratings, which mean they’re dust-tight and resistant to low-pressure water jets (like rain or sprinklers). Some brands even offer IP67 ratings for submersion in water up to 1 meter—great if you live in a humid or rainy climate.

Pro tip: Check the plug and connection points. Even if the bulbs are weather-resistant, a flimsy plug can ruin the whole setup. For example, I once bought a set with a cheap plug that corroded after a single summer—lesson learned.

Bulb Type: LED vs. Incandescent

LED bulbs are the clear winner for outdoor use. They’re energy-efficient (up to 80% less power than incandescent), last longer (often 25,000+ hours), and stay cool to the touch. Incandescent bulbs, while warmer in tone, burn out faster and waste energy.

But not all LEDs are created equal. Some have a harsh, bluish glow, while others mimic the cozy warmth of traditional bulbs. Look for 2700K to 3000K color temperature for that inviting, golden light. For example, the Brightech Ambience Pro uses warm white LEDs that feel just like classic Edison bulbs.

Length and Spacing: Fit Your Space

Measure your area before buying. Too short? You’ll need extensions. Too long? You’ll have excess cord to hide. Standard lengths range from 25 to 100 feet, with bulb spacing from 2 to 6 feet. For a patio, 50 feet with 3-foot spacing is often ideal. For a large yard, you might need multiple strands or a 100-foot option.

Example: I once tried to drape a 40-foot strand across a 60-foot patio—it looked sparse and awkward. Now I use two 50-foot strands with a splitter for a fuller effect.

Power Source: Plug-In, Solar, or Battery

• Plug-in: Most reliable, but requires an outdoor outlet. Great for patios and decks.
• Solar: Eco-friendly and easy to install (no wiring), but brightness depends on sunlight. Best for areas with full sun.
• Battery: Portable and flexible, but batteries need frequent replacement. Ideal for renters or temporary setups.

For permanent installations, I usually recommend plug-in. But if you’re in a shaded area, solar is a smart compromise.

Style and Aesthetic: Match Your Backyard Vibe

String lights come in all styles: vintage Edison bulbs, globe lights, fairy lights, and more. Think about your backyard’s theme:

• Rustic: Edison bulbs with exposed filaments.
• Modern: Sleek, clear or frosted globes.
• Bohemian: Colored or twinkling fairy lights.

I love the Twinkle Star 50-LED Globe Lights for a clean, minimalist look. But for a farmhouse vibe, nothing beats the warm glow of Brightech’s Edison-style strands.

Top Contenders for the Best Outdoor String Lights

Now that you know what to look for, let’s dive into some real-world options. These are the lights I’ve tested, used, or heard consistently great things about from fellow backyard enthusiasts. I’ll highlight what works, what doesn’t, and who each set is best for.

Brightech Ambience Pro: The All-Around Winner

Why it’s great: These are the best outdoor string lights for most people. They’re durable (IP65 rating), use warm white LEDs, and have a classic Edison-bulb look. The 48-foot strand has 15 bulbs spaced 3 feet apart—perfect for patios or pergolas. Plus, they’re dimmable with a remote (sold separately), so you can adjust the mood.

Real-world test: I’ve used these for two summers. They survived heavy rain, 100°F heat, and even a squirrel chewing on the cord (the squirrel lost). The bulbs are shatterproof, and the cord is thick but not stiff.

Minor gripe: The plug isn’t as rugged as the rest of the strand. I wrapped it in waterproof tape for extra protection.

Twinkle Star 50-LED Globe Lights: Best for a Modern Look

Why it’s great: These sleek, clear globe lights are perfect for a clean, contemporary vibe. The 50-foot strand has bulbs spaced 1 foot apart, creating a dense, twinkling effect. They’re IP65-rated and come with a 24-month warranty.

Real-world test: I used these for a friend’s backyard wedding. The even spacing made the space feel luxe and intimate. They’re also great for wrapping around trees or railings.

Minor gripe: The bulbs are plastic, not glass, so they’re less “premium” feeling. But they’re lightweight and shatterproof—a fair trade-off.

Litom Solar String Lights: Best for Off-Grid Areas

Why it’s great: No outlet? No problem. These solar-powered lights have 200 LEDs on a 72-foot strand, with 8 modes (steady, twinkle, wave, etc.). The solar panel charges in 6-8 hours of sun and lasts 8-12 hours.

Real-world test: I installed these in a shaded corner of my yard. On sunny days, they’re bright enough for evening reading. On cloudy days, they’re dimmer but still functional.

Minor gripe: The solar panel is bulky and needs direct sun. If your backyard is heavily shaded, consider a plug-in alternative.

Philips Hue Outdoor String Lights: Best for Smart Home Nerds

Why it’s great: These are the best outdoor string lights for tech lovers. They connect to your Wi-Fi via the Hue Bridge, so you can control color, brightness, and schedules with an app or voice assistant (Alexa, Google Assistant). The 20-foot strand has 10 color-changing bulbs.

Real-world test: I used these for a Fourth of July party. We changed the colors to red, white, and blue—it was a hit! The app is intuitive, and the lights sync with music.

Minor gripe: They’re expensive (around $150 for 20 feet), and you need the Hue Bridge ($60 extra). But if you’re already in the Hue ecosystem, it’s worth it.

Feit Electric 24-Foot LED String Lights: Best Budget Pick

Why it’s great: These are the best outdoor string lights under $30. They’re IP65-rated, use warm white LEDs, and have 12 bulbs on a 24-foot strand. The cord is thin but durable.

Real-world test: I bought these for a temporary setup on my deck. They’re not as bright as premium options, but they’re perfect for subtle ambiance. I’ve had them for 18 months with zero issues.

Minor gripe: The bulbs are fixed (not replaceable), so if one goes out, the whole strand might need replacing. But for the price, it’s a fair compromise.

Installation Tips: How to Hang Your String Lights Like a Pro

Even the best outdoor string lights won’t look great if they’re poorly installed. Here’s how to get it right—no tangled cords or sagging strands.

Step 1: Plan Your Layout

Sketch your backyard and decide where to hang the lights. Common options:

• Overhead: Between trees, posts, or a pergola.
• Along edges: Railings, fences, or walls.
• Wrapped: Around trees, poles, or furniture.

Pro tip: Use masking tape to mark anchor points before drilling. This helps you visualize the spacing and avoid mistakes.

Step 2: Choose the Right Hardware

Don’t just nail into wood—it can split or rust. Instead, use:

• Eye hooks: For wood or concrete (screw in with a drill).
• Clips or adhesive hooks: For vinyl siding or stucco (no drilling).
• Zip ties: For temporary setups or wrapping.

I prefer stainless steel eye hooks for permanent installs. They’re rust-proof and can hold a lot of weight.

Step 3: Hang with Tension

Sagging lights look sloppy. To keep them taut:

• Stretch the strand between anchor points before securing.
• Use a turnbuckle (a metal loop that adjusts tension) for long spans.
• For overhead setups, add a middle support (like a pole or tree branch).

Example: I once hung a 50-foot strand between two trees without a middle support. It sagged in the middle and looked like a hammock. Adding a third anchor point fixed it instantly.

Step 4: Manage the Cord

Hide or secure excess cord to avoid tripping hazards:

• Use cord covers (plastic sleeves) for floor-level wires.
• Tuck the cord behind furniture or along walls.
• For solar lights, place the panel in a sunny spot and run the cord discreetly.

I love using zip ties to bundle the cord along a fence or railing. It’s clean and easy to remove.

Common Mistakes to Avoid (and How to Fix Them)

Even experienced DIYers make mistakes with outdoor lights. Here are the most common—and how to fix them.

Mistake #1: Overloading the Circuit

Too many lights on one outlet can trip the breaker. Check the total wattage of your setup. Most outdoor outlets support 15-20 amps (1,800-2,400 watts).

Solution: Use an outdoor-rated power strip or split the load across multiple outlets. For example, I run two 50-foot strands on separate circuits to avoid overloading.

Mistake #2: Using Indoor Lights Outside

Indoor lights aren’t weatherproof. Even a light rain can ruin them.

Solution: Always check the IP rating before buying. IP44 is minimum for outdoor use; IP65 or higher is better.

Mistake #3: Poor Spacing

Bulbs too far apart look sparse. Too close, and they’re blinding.

Solution: For ambient light, space bulbs 2-3 feet apart. For task lighting (like over a grill), go closer (1-2 feet).

Mistake #4: Ignoring the Warranty

Some brands offer 1-year warranties; others go up to 5 years. Check the fine print—some cover only manufacturing defects, not weather damage.

Solution: Register your purchase online. I once got a free replacement for a defective strand because I kept the receipt and warranty info.

Mistake #5: Forgetting Maintenance

Dust, pollen, and bugs can dim your lights over time.

Solution: Wipe bulbs with a damp cloth every few months. For solar lights, clean the panel with glass cleaner to maximize charging.

Comparing the Top Picks: A Quick Reference Guide

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the lights I recommend. This table highlights the key specs so you can choose based on your needs.

Model	Length	Bulb Type	Weather Rating	Power Source	Price Range
Brightech Ambience Pro	48 ft	Edison-style LED	IP65	Plug-in	$40-$60
Twinkle Star Globe Lights	50 ft	Clear globe LED	IP65	Plug-in	$35-$50
Litom Solar String Lights	72 ft	Mini LED (200 bulbs)	IP65	Solar	$30-$45
Philips Hue Outdoor	20 ft	Color-changing LED	IP65	Plug-in (smart)	$120-$150
Feit Electric 24-Foot	24 ft	Warm white LED	IP65	Plug-in	$20-$30

Final Thoughts: Which String Lights Are Right for You?

So, what is the best outdoor string lights for your backyard? It depends on your priorities. Here’s my quick cheat sheet:

• Best overall: Brightech Ambience Pro—durable, stylish, and versatile.
• Best budget: Feit Electric 24-Foot—great for short-term or low-key setups.
• Best for shade: Litom Solar—no outlet needed, but needs sun for the panel.
• Best for tech lovers: Philips Hue—smart features, but pricey.
• Best modern look: Twinkle Star Globe Lights—sleek and even lighting.

Remember, the “best” lights are the ones that fit your space, budget, and lifestyle. Don’t overthink it—start with a small set, test it out, and expand later. And if you’re ever in doubt, go for warm white LEDs. They’re universally flattering and create that cozy, inviting glow we all love.

At the end of the day, outdoor string lights are about more than just illumination. They’re about creating a space where you want to spend time—whether it’s with family, friends, or just a good book under the stars. So take the plunge, hang some lights, and let your backyard shine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best outdoor string lights for a cozy backyard vibe?

The best outdoor string lights for a cozy ambiance are warm white LED Edison-style bulbs, like the Brightech Ambience Pro or Govee Outdoor String Lights. They offer soft, inviting glows and are durable for year-round use. Look for weatherproof ratings (IP65+) and dimmable features for customization.

Which best outdoor string lights are the most energy-efficient?

Solar-powered or LED string lights, such as the LITOM Solar String Lights, are the most energy-efficient options. They use up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs and can last 25,000+ hours. Solar models also cut electricity costs entirely.

Are there weatherproof outdoor string lights for rainy climates?

Yes! Opt for lights with IP65 or IP67 waterproof ratings, like the addlon Outdoor String Lights. These resist rain, snow, and humidity, making them ideal for harsh weather. Always check the manufacturer’s durability claims before buying.

What type of outdoor string lights work best for large patios?

For large spaces, choose longer strands (48+ ft) with higher lumens (500+), like the TaoTronics LED String Lights. Connectable sets let you cover expansive areas, while shatterproof bulbs ensure safety. Ensure the wattage supports your desired brightness.

Do the best outdoor string lights come with smart features?

Absolutely! Smart string lights (e.g., Philips Hue or Twinkly) offer app control, color-changing options, and voice assistant compatibility. They’re pricier but perfect for customizable lighting scenes and automation via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.

Can I install outdoor string lights without drilling holes?

Yes! Use adhesive hooks, zip ties, or tension rods for damage-free setups. Brands like Mpow offer no-tools mounting solutions. Just ensure your lights’ weight and length are compatible with the installation method.