ASDA Garden Solar String Lights Review Brighten Your Outdoor Space

ASDA Garden Solar String Lights deliver impressive brightness and effortless installation, making them a top choice for illuminating patios, fences, or trees without wiring hassles. Powered by efficient solar panels and featuring durable, weather-resistant bulbs, these lights offer eco-friendly, cost-saving ambiance that shines all summer long.

Key Takeaways

• Energy-efficient: Harness solar power for eco-friendly, cost-saving outdoor lighting.
• Easy installation: No wiring needed—set up in minutes with flexible placement.
• Weather-resistant: Durable design withstands rain, wind, and seasonal changes.
• Long battery life: Up to 8 hours of illumination after a full charge.
• Versatile use: Perfect for patios, fences, trees, or event decor.
• Auto on/off: Built-in sensor activates lights at dusk, conserving energy.

ASDA Garden Solar String Lights Review: Brighten Your Outdoor Space

Imagine this: It’s a warm summer evening, and you’re sitting in your garden, sipping a cup of tea or sharing a glass of wine with friends. The sun has dipped below the horizon, and instead of reaching for the light switch, your outdoor space is already glowing softly. That’s the magic of ASDA garden solar string lights—a simple, affordable way to turn your backyard, patio, or balcony into a cozy, inviting haven.

Outdoor lighting doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. In fact, solar string lights are one of the easiest and most eco-friendly ways to enhance your outdoor ambiance. No wiring, no extension cords, no energy bills. Just sunlight during the day, and gentle, ambient light when the stars come out. Over the past few months, I’ve tested several sets of ASDA garden solar string lights, from different lengths and bulb types to various mounting options. Whether you’re planning a garden party, creating a romantic nook, or just want to enjoy your yard after dark, these lights might be exactly what you need. Let’s dive in and see what makes them tick—and where they might fall short.

Why Choose Solar String Lights? The Benefits of Going Solar

Solar lighting has come a long way from the dim, flickering garden stakes of a decade ago. Today, solar-powered options are brighter, more reliable, and far more stylish. But why choose solar over traditional plug-in string lights? The answer is simple: convenience, cost, and care for the environment.

No Electricity Bills, No Wires

One of the biggest perks of ASDA garden solar string lights is that they run entirely on sunlight. The small solar panel charges a rechargeable battery during the day, which powers the LEDs at night. That means no need to run extension cords across your yard or worry about tripping over wires. I remember setting up my first set of solar lights—I just hung them on a pergola and let them do their thing. No electrician, no outlet hunting, no stress.

Eco-Friendly and Energy Efficient

These lights use LED bulbs, which consume up to 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs and last much longer. Plus, by using solar power, you’re reducing your carbon footprint. It feels good to know I’m not adding to my energy usage, especially during peak summer months when air conditioners are already running.

Easy Installation and Portability

Most ASDA garden solar string lights come with a solar panel that can be staked into the ground or mounted on a wall or fence. The lights themselves are lightweight and flexible, so you can drape them over bushes, wrap them around tree trunks, or hang them along a fence. I’ve even moved them from my patio to a gazebo for a garden party—took less than five minutes.

Low Maintenance

Once installed, these lights require minimal upkeep. Just wipe the solar panel occasionally to remove dust or pollen, and you’re good to go. No replacing bulbs or fiddling with timers. I’ve had mine for over six months, and they still work as well as day one.

ASDA Garden Solar String Lights: Design, Build, and Features

ASDA offers several types of solar string lights, but I’ve focused on their most popular models: the 20-bulb warm white string (10m), the 30-bulb multi-color set (15m), and the 50-bulb fairy lights (20m). All are designed for outdoor use and come with weather-resistant casings, but there are some key differences in design and functionality.

Bulb Style and Light Output

The warm white version uses classic globe-shaped LEDs with a soft, golden glow—perfect for creating a cozy, romantic atmosphere. The multi-color set cycles through red, green, blue, and yellow, making it ideal for holidays or festive occasions. The fairy lights are more delicate, with tiny bulbs spaced closely together, giving a starry-night effect.

One thing I loved: the brightness. Even the 20-bulb set gives off a surprisingly strong glow. On a clear night, it lights up a 4×4 meter patio area enough to read by, though it’s more for ambiance than task lighting. The multi-color set is slightly dimmer, but the changing colors add a playful vibe.

Solar Panel and Charging Efficiency

The solar panel is about the size of a small tablet and comes with a 2-meter cable, giving you flexibility in placement. I placed mine on a south-facing fence, angled slightly toward the sun, and it charged fully in about 6 hours on a sunny day. On overcast days, charging took closer to 8–10 hours, and the lights ran for about 4–5 hours instead of the usual 6–8.

The panel has a built-in light sensor, so the lights turn on automatically at dusk and off at dawn. No manual switching needed. However, the sensor is quite sensitive—if you cover it during the day, the lights will come on even if it’s still light outside. A minor quirk, but worth noting.

Durability and Weather Resistance

All models are rated IP65, meaning they’re protected against dust and low-pressure water jets—perfect for UK weather. I left mine out during a heavy rainstorm, and they kept working. The bulbs are sealed, and the wire is coated with a flexible, rubber-like material that resists UV damage. After six months of use (including a rainy spring and a hot summer), there’s no sign of corrosion or fraying.

One small caveat: the solar panel itself isn’t fully waterproof. It’s splash-resistant, but I’d recommend placing it under an eave or in a sheltered spot to prolong its life.

Real-World Performance: How Do They Hold Up?

Let’s talk about real-life use. I tested the ASDA garden solar string lights in a variety of conditions—sunny days, cloudy weeks, windy nights, and even during a light frost. Here’s what I found.

Charging and Runtime

On a sunny summer day, the lights charged fully and ran for about 7–8 hours. That’s enough to cover dusk until midnight—perfect for evening relaxation. On a partly cloudy day, runtime dropped to 5–6 hours. And during a week of heavy rain and overcast skies, they barely made it past 4 hours. This is typical for solar lights, but it’s something to keep in mind if you live in a region with frequent cloud cover.

Tip: If you know the weather will be poor, charge the lights fully on a sunny day and use them sparingly. Or, consider a model with a backup USB charging option (ASDA doesn’t currently offer this, but some third-party brands do).

Brightness and Ambiance

The warm white lights are my personal favorite. They give off a soft, inviting glow—like candlelight, but without the fire risk. I used them to line my garden path, and it made walking outside at night feel safe and magical. The fairy lights are even more delicate; I wrapped them around a small birch tree, and it looked like a scene from a fairy tale.

The multi-color set is fun for parties. I used it for a birthday celebration, and the color-changing mode added a festive, playful energy. But for everyday use, I prefer the warm white. The colors are a bit intense if you’re just trying to unwind.

Mounting and Flexibility

These lights are incredibly easy to install. The bulbs come with small loops or clips, so you can hang them from hooks, nails, or even zip ties. I used garden wire to string them across a pergola, and it took less than 15 minutes. The wire is flexible enough to bend around corners, but not so stiff that it’s hard to work with.

One tip: avoid wrapping them too tightly around thin branches. The bulbs can get stuck or damaged. Instead, use the clips to secure them at intervals, or drape them loosely.

Winter Performance

I tested them through a mild winter (temperatures down to -2°C). The lights still worked, but runtime dropped significantly—about 3–4 hours, even after a full day of sun. The batteries don’t hold charge as well in cold weather, which is a common issue with all solar lights. If you live in a colder climate, consider bringing the solar panel inside during winter months or using a protective cover.

Comparing ASDA Garden Solar String Lights to Competitors

ASDA isn’t the only brand selling solar string lights. So how do they stack up against other popular options like B&Q, Amazon Basics, or Philips?

Price and Value

ASDA’s lights are very competitively priced. The 20-bulb warm white set costs around £12–£15, which is about £2–£3 less than similar sets from B&Q or Amazon. For the price, the build quality and brightness are excellent. I’ve seen cheaper lights that use flimsy wires or dim LEDs, but ASDA’s feel solid and well-made.

However, brands like Philips offer more advanced features—like app-controlled color settings, higher IP ratings, or longer battery life—but at a significantly higher price (£30+). For most people, ASDA strikes a great balance between cost and quality.

Brightness and Light Quality

Compared to Amazon Basics’ 20-bulb set, ASDA’s lights are slightly brighter and have a warmer, more natural tone. Amazon’s version leans a bit more toward cool white, which can feel clinical in a garden setting. B&Q’s “Outdoor Living” range is comparable in brightness but uses larger bulbs, which might not suit everyone’s aesthetic.

One advantage of ASDA: the fairy lights are among the most delicate I’ve seen. Many brands use bulkier bulbs, but ASDA’s are tiny and subtle—perfect for creating a soft, dreamy effect.

Durability and Warranty

ASDA offers a 1-year warranty, which is standard for this price range. Some premium brands offer 2–3 years, but again, at a higher cost. In terms of real-world durability, ASDA’s lights hold up well. I’ve had no issues with water ingress or battery failure, which is a common complaint with cheaper brands.

One downside: ASDA doesn’t sell replacement solar panels or batteries. If the panel fails after a year, you’ll need to buy a whole new set. Some competitors offer modular designs, where you can replace individual parts.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your ASDA Solar String Lights

Want to make your lights last longer and shine brighter? Here are some practical tips based on my experience.

Optimize the Solar Panel Placement

The key to good performance is sunlight. Place the solar panel where it gets at least 6 hours of direct sun per day—ideally south-facing (in the Northern Hemisphere). Avoid shady spots under trees or eaves. If your yard is shaded, consider mounting the panel on a fence or pole that extends into a sunny area.

Tip: Tilt the panel slightly toward the sun. A 30–45 degree angle works best in the UK. You can use a small wooden block or adjustable stake to get the angle right.

Clean the Panel Regularly

Dust, pollen, and bird droppings can block sunlight. Wipe the panel with a damp cloth every few weeks, especially during spring and summer. I use a microfiber cloth—it’s gentle and doesn’t leave streaks.

Use Them Strategically

Don’t just drape them randomly. Think about the mood you want to create:

• For a romantic dinner, hang warm white lights above a patio table or around a gazebo.
• For a festive party, use multi-color lights in trees or along fences.
• For safety, line pathways or steps with fairy lights—they’re subtle but effective.

Store Properly Off-Season

If you live in a cold climate, consider storing the lights indoors during winter. Remove the solar panel and keep it in a cool, dry place. This helps preserve the battery life. When spring comes, just reinstall and let it charge for a day before use.

Combine with Other Lighting

Solar string lights are great for ambiance, but they’re not bright enough for task lighting. Pair them with solar lanterns or motion-sensor floodlights for a balanced outdoor setup. I use ASDA’s solar string lights for mood lighting and a separate solar spotlight for my front door.

Final Verdict: Are ASDA Garden Solar String Lights Worth It?

After months of testing, I can confidently say that ASDA garden solar string lights are a fantastic choice for most homeowners. They’re affordable, easy to install, and deliver beautiful, ambient light that transforms your outdoor space. Whether you’re lighting up a small balcony or a sprawling garden, they offer great value for the price.

The warm white and fairy light versions are my top picks for everyday use—soft, inviting, and perfect for relaxing. The multi-color set is a fun addition for parties or holidays. And while they’re not the most advanced solar lights on the market, they strike a smart balance between performance, durability, and cost.

Yes, they have a few limitations: runtime drops in cloudy weather, the solar panel isn’t fully waterproof, and replacement parts aren’t available. But for most people, these are minor trade-offs for the convenience and charm they bring.

If you’re looking for a simple, eco-friendly way to brighten your garden, patio, or outdoor dining area, I’d recommend giving ASDA garden solar string lights a try. They’ve become a permanent part of my outdoor setup, and every time I see them twinkle in the evening, I smile. After all, the best outdoor spaces aren’t just about plants and furniture—they’re about light, warmth, and the joy of spending time outside, even after the sun goes down.

Model	Bulb Count	Length	Color	Runtime (Full Charge)	Price (Approx.)
Warm White String	20	10m	Warm White	7–8 hours	£12–£15
Multi-Color String	30	15m	Red, Green, Blue, Yellow	6–7 hours	£15–£18
Fairy Lights	50	20m	Warm White	6–8 hours	£18–£20

Frequently Asked Questions

How bright are the ASDA Garden Solar String Lights?

The ASDA Garden Solar String Lights provide a warm, ambient glow ideal for outdoor spaces. They’re not designed for task lighting but perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere on patios or in gardens.

Do the ASDA solar string lights stay lit all night?

Yes, fully charged ASDA Garden Solar String Lights typically last 6-8 hours, depending on sunlight exposure and weather conditions. Performance may vary in winter or cloudy climates.

Are the ASDA Garden Solar String Lights weatherproof?

These lights come with an IP65 waterproof rating, making them durable against rain and humidity. However, avoid submerging the solar panel in water for extended periods.

Can I connect multiple sets of ASDA solar string lights together?

No, the ASDA Garden Solar String Lights aren’t designed for end-to-end connections. Overloading may damage the solar panel or reduce performance.

How long do the batteries last in ASDA solar lights?

The rechargeable batteries typically last 1-2 years before needing replacement. Battery life depends on usage frequency and charging conditions.

Where should I place the solar panel for best results?

Install the solar panel in direct sunlight, ideally facing south, with no shade or obstructions. This maximizes charging efficiency for your ASDA Garden Solar String Lights.