5 best outdoor solar hanging lanterns
Outdoor solar hanging lanterns are quickly becoming a favorite among homeowners and renters in the USA, and for good reason. They offer a unique blend of convenience, beauty, and sustainability that traditional outdoor lighting simply can’t match.
My personal experience with them started as an experiment to add some life to a drab patio. I hung a few Moroccan-style lanterns from the eaves of my porch and a couple from the branches of a nearby tree. The transformation was instant and dramatic. The harsh glare of my single porch light was replaced with a soft, inviting glow that cast intricate patterns on the ground. My patio, which was previously a dark and uninviting space after sundown, became a cozy outdoor room perfect for evening gatherings and quiet relaxation. The best part? No wires, no electricians, no increase in my electricity bill.
My Top 5 Solar Hanging Lanterns: A Personal Review
Solar hanging lanterns are a game-changer for outdoor spaces. They’re a simple, eco-friendly way to add light and ambiance without the hassle of wiring or outlets. Over the past few months, I’ve had the chance to test some of the most popular models on the market. Here’s my take on the best solar lanterns for every need.
5.1 Best Overall Solar Hanging Lantern – MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0
A Versatile and Durable Companion The MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0 isn’t just a lantern; it’s a trusty sidekick for all your outdoor adventures. Its unique inflatable design is a stroke of genius, allowing it to collapse into a compact, packable disc that fits almost anywhere. The lantern is made from a rugged, lightweight plastic that’s tough enough to withstand a fall or a bit of rough handling, and its fully waterproof IP67 rating means you can leave it out in a downpour without a second thought.
On My Patio I’ve used this little powerhouse for everything from a soft glow hanging in a tree during a quiet evening to a surprisingly bright, focused light clipped to my awning for a late-night chat. The four light modes let me easily dial in the perfect brightness for the mood. Its versatility and durability have made it my go-to choice for my backyard.
At a Glance
- Pros: Exceptionally lightweight and portable; built to survive rain, splashes, and drops; provides multiple lighting modes; and boasts an impressive 24-hour battery life.
- Cons: The cool white light and modern look might not appeal to everyone, especially if you’re seeking a more traditional aesthetic.
- Verdict: The perfect all-rounder for anyone who needs a reliable, tough, and portable light for both home and on the go.
5.2 Best Decorative Hanging Lantern – TomCare Metal Flickering Flame Solar Lantern
Creating Ambiance with a Warm Glow If you’re looking to create a magical atmosphere, the TomCare Metal Flickering Flame Lantern is the way to go. Its antique metal frame and hollowed-out design are beautiful, but the real showstopper is the realistic LED flame that flickers inside. When the sun goes down, it casts beautiful, dancing shadows on the ground and walls, creating a truly enchanting effect.
Adding Charm to the Garden I’ve hung these lanterns from the branches of a large tree in my garden, and the effect is nothing short of breathtaking. They don’t provide a lot of light for seeing things, but they’re not meant to. They are a statement piece that adds warmth and a touch of romance to any outdoor space.
At a Glance
- Pros: Stunning antique design; mesmerizing flickering flame effect; perfect for mood lighting and casting intricate shadows.
- Cons: Strictly for decoration—it’s not bright enough for practical tasks; requires a lot of direct sunlight to get a full charge.
- Verdict: A must-have for anyone prioritizing aesthetic appeal and a warm, inviting feel over pure functionality.
5.3 Best Brightness Hanging Lantern – Goal Zero Lighthouse 600
A True Powerhouse When you need serious light, the Goal Zero Lighthouse 600 delivers. This isn’t just a hanging light—it’s a powerful, multi-functional lighting system. It blasts out a huge 600 lumens of light, and you can switch between a 360-degree spread or a more focused 180-degree beam. Plus, it has a built-in USB port to charge your phone and a hand crank for those moments when you’re caught without power.
Illuminating Walkways and Entryways I was blown away by its performance. When I hung it on my front porch, it lit up the entire walkway, making it easy to see where I was going. In an emergency, the hand crank feature provides peace of mind, knowing I can always get some light and a bit of power.
At a Glance
- Pros: Unmatched brightness at 600 lumens; multiple charging methods for ultimate reliability; a handy USB port for charging devices; and adjustable directional light.
- Cons: It’s bulkier and heavier than other models on this list, making it less ideal for backpacking.
- Verdict: The top choice for anyone who needs powerful, dependable illumination for large areas or as a key part of their emergency kit.
5.4 Best Weather-Resistant Hanging Lantern – MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0
Built to Withstand the Elements The MPOWERD Luci Outdoor 2.0 is so weather-resistant it deserves a second mention. Its inflatable body and waterproof materials give it an incredible IP67 rating, which means it can be fully submerged in water and keep on shining. This makes it impervious to heavy rain, snow, or accidental drops in a puddle.
Through Rain and Wind I’ve left this lantern hanging on my patio through several thunderstorms, and it has never failed. I don’t have to worry about running out to grab it when the weather turns. Its lightweight design also means strong winds won’t knock it around or cause damage like they might to a heavier, more rigid lantern.
At a Glance
- Pros: Completely waterproof; a durable build that shrugs off drops and impacts; and it’s lightweight, so it holds up well in windy conditions.
- Cons: The modern design and cool light color might not be to everyone’s liking.
- Verdict: The ultimate “set it and forget it” lantern for any climate or for use around water.
5.5 Best Budget-Friendly Hanging Lantern – Goal Zero Crush Light
Affordable Charm and Function The Goal Zero Crush Light proves that you don’t have to spend a lot to get a great solar lantern. This compact, collapsible lantern provides a respectable 60 lumens of light and has four light modes, including a charming candle flicker. It’s a scaled-down version of the Lighthouse series, offering a lot of bang for your buck.
A Smart, Affordable Pick While it doesn’t have the sheer power of its bigger siblings, the Crush Light is perfect for lighting up a small outdoor table or a tent. The candle flicker mode is a delightful feature, adding a cozy vibe for a fraction of the cost of other decorative lanterns. This lantern is a great example of getting both style and function on a budget.
At a Glance
- Pros: Extremely affordable; lightweight and portable; includes a fun candle flicker mode; and charges via both solar and micro-USB.
- Cons: Low lumen output is not suitable for illuminating large areas, and its battery life is shorter than some premium models.
- Verdict: The ideal choice for anyone on a budget who wants a simple, stylish, and functional light for casual outdoor use.
The surge in popularity is driven by three key benefits:
- Eco-friendly: They harness the sun’s energy, reducing reliance on the power grid and your carbon footprint.
- Wireless: The lack of wiring makes them incredibly easy to install and move, offering unparalleled flexibility in design.
- Stylish Lighting: They come in a vast array of designs, from modern minimalist to rustic farmhouse, allowing you to easily complement your outdoor decor.
Why Choose Solar Hanging Lanterns
Solar hanging lanterns offer distinct advantages that make them a smart choice for any outdoor space.
- Energy Savings and Sustainability: By running entirely on solar power, these lanterns eliminate ongoing electricity costs. They are a one-time purchase that provides free light for years, making them an economically and environmentally sound choice.
- Decorative and Functional Lighting in One: Unlike simple pathway lights, hanging lanterns serve a dual purpose. During the day, they are stylish decorative objects that add visual interest to your garden. At night, they become a source of soft, ambient light that transforms the space.
- Portable and Versatile: The lack of wires means you can place them anywhere the sun shines. Hang them from pergolas to define an outdoor dining area, suspend them from tree branches to create a magical canopy, or use them to add a welcoming glow to a porch or gazebo. Their portability also allows you to easily change up your lighting design as often as you like.
How We Tested Outdoor Solar Hanging Lanterns
To provide a comprehensive review, we conducted a multi-night, real-world test of various solar hanging lanterns in different outdoor settings.
- Testing Locations: We placed a variety of lanterns in a backyard to see how they performed. This included hanging them on a patio pergola for general ambiance, from a shepherd’s hook along a garden pathway, and from tree branches to see how they illuminated a larger area.
- Evaluation Criteria: We assessed each lantern based on:
- Brightness: We measured the light output and evaluated how well the light diffused to create the desired ambiance.
- Design: We considered the aesthetic appeal of the lantern and how its style contributed to the overall outdoor decor.
- Durability: We checked the materials and construction, specifically looking at how well they withstood wind, rain, and direct sunlight.
- Runtime: We monitored how long each lantern stayed lit after a full day of charging, noting if they maintained a consistent brightness throughout the night.
- Testing Timeline: Each product was tested over several consecutive nights, including both sunny and overcast days, to get a clear picture of their performance in varying weather conditions.
4. Quick Comparison Table
Buying Guide: Choosing Outdoor Solar Hanging Lanterns
When you’re shopping for solar lanterns, the first thing you’ll want to think about is the **design**. They come in all sorts of styles to match any outdoor aesthetic. **Moroccan** lanterns, with their intricately cut metal or colored glass, cast beautiful, patterned light and are perfect for creating a bohemian or exotic feel. **Rustic** farmhouse designs, often made from wrought iron or distressed metal, provide a cozy and timeless look. For a clean, contemporary space, **modern** and **minimalist** lanterns made of sleek stainless steel or simple geometric shapes offer a sophisticated touch. The design you choose should complement your outdoor space and reflect your personal style.
Next, consider your preferences for **brightness and ambience**. A lantern’s brightness is measured in lumens. For a subtle, decorative glow, look for lanterns with a low lumen output of 5 to 20 lumens. For lighting a path or adding functional light to a seating area, you’ll need a brighter lantern in the 50 to 100+ lumen range. A light’s color temperature is also important; warmer tones (2700K-3000K) create a cozy, inviting atmosphere, while cooler tones (4000K+) feel more modern and functional.
Don’t forget to check the **runtime and solar charging efficiency**. A good solar lantern should have a high-quality solar panel, often made of monocrystalline silicon, which can charge efficiently even on partly cloudy days. The battery should be large enough to power the lantern for at least 8 to 10 hours on a full charge, ensuring it lasts through the night. You’ll also want to look at the **materials** they’re made from. Lanterns made of durable metal (like powder-coated steel), rugged plastic (like ABS), or thick, shatter-resistant glass will hold up better to the elements and last longer.
Key Features to Look For
There are a few key features that can really make a difference in a solar lantern. The most common is an **automatic dusk-to-dawn sensor**, which uses a light-sensitive resistor to turn the light on at sunset and off at sunrise, saving you the hassle of having to do it yourself.
Another incredibly useful feature is a **replaceable battery**. Over time, all batteries lose their ability to hold a charge. Look for lanterns that use standard rechargeable batteries, like AA or AAA NiMH batteries, which you can easily swap out to extend the life of your lantern for years. This is a much more sustainable and cost-effective option than having to replace the entire unit. You should also decide if you want a **flickering flame effect vs. a steady LED**. The flickering flame effect uses a unique LED array to mimic the dance of a real flame, adding a lot of cozy ambiance, while a steady LED provides a consistent, reliable light source.
Finally, consider the **hanging options**. Most lanterns come with a simple hook, but others might include carabiners, chains, or shepherd’s hook stands that allow you to place them in a variety of spots, from hanging from a tree branch to being a focal point in your garden bed.
Installation Tips for Hanging Solar Lanterns
For the best performance, you’ll want to place your lanterns in **ideal places** that receive a minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight. Great spots include hanging from a **pergola**, from **tree branches**, or along a **porch ceiling**. The goal is to **maximize sun exposure** for charging, so avoid placing them under eaves or in shaded areas. You can also get creative by **layering multiple lanterns** at different heights and with different designs to create a dynamic and inviting atmosphere. For example, hang a few brighter, functional lanterns from a pergola, then place a few decorative, lower-lumen lanterns in a nearby tree for added visual interest.
Maintenance and Care
To keep your lanterns working at their best, a little regular maintenance goes a long way. Make sure to **clean the solar panels** every so often to remove any dirt, pollen, or dust that might block the sun. You can simply wipe them down with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. If you live in a place with harsh winters or frequent storms, it’s a good idea to **protect your lanterns** by bringing them inside or storing them in a shed to prevent damage from freezing temperatures, heavy snow, or high winds. As mentioned earlier, if your lantern has **replaceable batteries**, swapping them out every year or two will ensure it stays bright for years to come.
Who Should Buy Solar Hanging Lanterns
Solar hanging lanterns are a great choice for a wide variety of people, thanks to their versatility and ease of use.
- **Garden and patio lovers:** If you spend a lot of time tending to your garden or relaxing on your patio, solar lanterns are a perfect way to extend your enjoyment into the evening hours. They add a magical, enchanting glow to plants and seating areas without any messy wires.
- **Homeowners who host outdoor dinners or parties:** When you’re entertaining, solar lanterns create instant ambiance. You can hang them from pergolas, trees, or awnings to provide beautiful, soft lighting that makes guests feel welcome and comfortable.
- **Renters looking for portable and stylish lighting:** Since solar lanterns don’t require any electrical wiring, they are the ideal solution for renters. You can easily set them up without a landlord’s permission and take them with you when you move. Their portability also makes them great for camping and other temporary outdoor setups.
FAQ Section
How long do solar hanging lanterns stay lit at night?
Most quality solar lanterns, after a full day of direct sunlight, will stay lit for at least 8 to 10 hours, which is typically enough to last from dusk until dawn.
Can they withstand heavy rain?
Yes, most outdoor solar lanterns are designed to be weather-resistant. Look for an IP (Ingress Protection) rating, such as IP44 or higher, which indicates they are protected against splashing water and rain.
Do they work in shaded areas?
While they can still charge in shaded or cloudy conditions, their performance will be greatly reduced. For best results, they need 6-8 hours of direct sunlight to get a full charge and provide maximum runtime.
Can they be used indoors?
Solar lanterns cannot be used indoors for regular lighting because they require sunlight to charge. However, if they have an alternative charging method, such as a USB port, you can use them indoors as a temporary light source.
How long do solar lantern batteries last?
The rechargeable batteries in solar lanterns typically last for about 1 to 2 years before their capacity starts to diminish. If your lantern has a replaceable battery, you can easily swap it out to extend the life of the unit.
Final Verdict
After exploring the different types of solar lanterns, it’s clear there’s a perfect one for every need. For versatility and durability, a compact, waterproof lantern is the top pick, while for pure ambiance and charm, a decorative flickering flame lantern is the way to go. If you need powerful, functional light for a large area, a high-lumen, multi-functional lantern is your best bet. My personal favorite would have to be a multi-functional lantern with a high-lumen output for its all-around usefulness and reliability.
Ultimately, the right lantern for you depends on what you value most. Consider your style, your lighting needs, and how you plan to use it to choose the perfect solar hanging lantern for your outdoor space.
