Best Outdoor Solar Step Lights

Renewable Systems independently researches, tests, and reviews products following our editorial guidelines. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Outdoor solar step lights are a sustainable and eco-friendly way to light up your steps at night. According to the US Energy Information Administration, the US can save money and energy by embracing options like outdoor solar step lights.

Outdoor solar step lights consist of solar panels, LED light sensors, rechargeable batteries, and bulbs. The solar panel absorbs solar energy during the day and stores the energy in the batteries, and at night, upon detection of darkness, the light sensors switch on the lights.

One of the benefits of outdoor solar step lights is that no wiring is needed. Additionally, there’s no need to involve professionals, and the installation process is easy. Also, the most significant advantage of outdoor solar step lights is that they are low maintenance and cost, helping cut monthly electricity bills.

There are several factors to consider when purchasing outdoor solar lights, including step lights. Some of these factors are warranty, durability, budget, battery capacity, and design.

We spent weeks researching and comparing outdoor solar step lights to find the best. We put each of the lights’ features, like brightness, durability, charge time, and run time to the test. Below is what we discovered.

BEST VALUE FOR MONEY: Aootek new outdoor solar step lights

aootek-new-outdoor-solar-step-lights
Aootek new outdoor solar step lights / Aootek

CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON

CHECK THE PRICE ON WALMART

What we liked;

Has three optional light modes.
Has a sensitive PIR Motion Inductor.
Waterproof IP65 feature and heatproof.
Comes with a 1-year warranty.
Has an automatic on/off feature.

What we didn’t like;

Only sold in packs (2-pack minimum)

The first feature we liked in the Aootek outdoor solar step lights is that they have three light modes; security light mode, Permanent On all-night mode, and smart brightness control mode.

The security light mode enables the lights to automatically turn on and off for 15 seconds whenever motion is detected. The Permanent On all-night light mode enables the solar step lights to automatically turn on at night and stay on throughout the night.

The smart brightness control mode enables the step lights that are already on to turn even brighter whenever motion is detected. We were impressed by the Sensitive PIR Motion Inductor that detects motion up to 26 feet within a 120 degrees angle. These lights also come with a lithium-ion battery. With only 5-6 hours of charging time, Aootek lights have a 10-hours running time.

These solar step lights have an IP65 waterproof feature that can withstand harsh and extreme elements. Besides the steps, these lights are versatile and can also be used on walls, porches, patios, lawns, pathways, and gardens.

Considering all these features and the price of these lights, you can be confident of striking a perfect balance between affordability and quality. The only downside is that you can’t purchase these lights individually. They are only sold in packs.

Material: Plastic | Product dimension: 7.08” L x 4.64” W x 3.74” H | Special features: Motion sensor, IP65 waterproof and weatherproof feature | Number of light sources: 120 | Batteries: Lithium-ion batteries required (included)

BEST FOR MULTI-PURPOSES: JSOT Super bright solar-powered step lights

jsot-super-bright-solar-powered-step-lights
JSOT Super bright solar-powered step lights / JSOT

CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON

CHECK THE PRICES AT WALMART

CHECK THE PRICES ON WAYFAIR

What we liked;

Has up to 10 hours of running time.
Has 30 lumens.
Has an automatic on/off mode.
Manufactured with high-quality stainless steel.

What we didn’t like;

The lights do not come with a warranty.
The IP44 waterproof and weatherproof feature only protects the lights from splashing water.

We were at first worried that the small size of these lights would affect their brightness, but we were wrong. We were impressed by the 30-lumens brightness of JSOT solar step lights.

These solar step lights are also conveniently versatile. JSOT solar step lights can be installed on walls, terraces, balconies, or fences. Their classic and simple design allows them to fit almost everywhere perfectly. The only condition is that the area of installation gets enough sunlight.

The easy installation of these lights, which required only two screws and double-sided tape is impressive. There’s no need to involve any electrician since no wiring is required. Also, no special knowledge is required to operate JSOT lights.

With a charge time of only 6 hours, you can get up to 10-12 hours of lighting from these lights. The JSOT solar step lights are also conveniently independent as they come with an automatic light sensor. This sensor turns the lights on at nighttime and off during the day.

Our all-time favorite feature is the stainless steel material used to manufacture JSOT lights, which increases their durability, especially under harsh elements.

The only downside, although not a big deal, is that they don’t have a warranty. However, this is made up for by the 30-day return policy offered. Also, although the IP44 waterproof feature suffices in most cases, it won’t be enough for those living in areas that experience extreme weather conditions.

Material: Stainless steel | Product dimension: 3.94” L x 1.18” W x 3.23” H | Special features: Stainless steel material, versatile Number of light sources: 12 | Batteries: 1AA batteries required.

BEST FEATURES: Jackyled stainless steel solar step lights

jackyled-stainless-steel-solar-step-lights
Jackyled stainless steel solar step lights / Jackyled

CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON

CHECK THE PRICE ON JACKYLED

CHECK THE PRICE ON EBAY

What we liked;

Has a 1-year warranty.
Has up to 10 hours of running time.
It is bright.
The installation screws needed are included.
Available in several colors.

What we didn’t like;

The IP44 waterproof feature will only be helpful against splashing water.

The Jackyled solar step lights made it to our list because of their brightness, installation simplicity, and available color options.

The 30 lumens in Jackyled stainless steel solar step lights are super bright. These solar step lights’ light options include bright white, warm white, orange, and blue.

The solid stainless steel material used and its durability will be worth the purchase. Additionally, Jackyled solar step lights’ versatility in installation is pretty impressive. Aside from steps, these solar-powered lights can also be installed on fences, poolsides, or even walls.

You will appreciate the 10-hour run time of these solar step lights, given that you only need to charge them for 6 hours. Additionally, the installation is easy and quick by simply screwing the solar lamps onto a surface (screws are included).

Note that the IP44 waterproof feature will only protect these lights from splashing water and other mild elements. Those in areas with extremely harsh conditions can benefit more from solar step lights with the IP65 feature.

Material: Stainless steel | Product dimensions: 3” L x 3” W x 1” H | Number of light sources: 8 | Special features: White, warm white, orange, and blue light options, no batteries are required| Batteries: Not needed.

BEST WARM LIGHTING: SOPLEX outdoor solar step lights

soplex-outdoor-solar-step-lights
SOPLEX outdoor solar step lights / SOPLEX

CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON

CHECK THE PRICE ON WALMART

What we liked;

Has an auto feature.
Has a 1-year warranty.
Has up to 9 hours of running time.
These lights are versatile.
Has warm, non-glaring light.

What we didn’t like;

The IP44 waterproof feature won’t be enough in very harsh weather conditions.

What stood out the most about these lights during our test is that they are perfectly bright and warm without the blinding glare that most bright white lights usually have.

These solar lights have a well-detailed manual that makes the installation easy. Thanks to the polypropylene material, you will be fascinated by how well these lights can withstand harsh outdoor conditions, including corrosion. The solar panels are protected by a strong ABS material.

We, however, didn’t like that these lights have an IP44 waterproof feature. Although not a big deal, the IP44 waterproof rating may not be effective enough under harsh weather.

These solar step lights also have an auto feature that automatically switches them on/off, saving you the manual work. The 5-6 hours needed to charge these lights for them to run for at least 9 hours is another highlight of these lights.

Because they are versatile, the Solpex outdoor solar step lights can also be installed on other surfaces like walls or fences in patios, gardens, and driveways.

Material: Polypropylene | Product dimensions: 3.94” L x 0.91” W x 3.27” H | Number of light sources: 6 | Special features: Batteries: AAA batteries required (not included)

BEST CHARGING TIME: DenicMic multi-color solar step lights

denicmic-multi-color-solar-step-lights
DenicMic multi-color solar step lights / DenicMic

CHECK THE PRICE ON AMAZON

CHECK THE PRICE ON EBAY

What we liked;

Has an IP45 waterproof feature.
Has 10 hours of running time.
Has several color modes.
Has 10 lumens per light.
The charging time is only 4-5 hours.

What we didn’t like;

Has no warranty.

The wide solar panels and 10 lumens per light of DenicMic solar step lights contribute to their brightness. Unlike most step lights that take 6-10 hours to charge, with only 4-5 hours of charging time, you can get ten hours of running time from these lights.

These lights function and look great even on a wall, fence, porch, or patio. The DenicMic solar step lights also have two light modes; 7RGB changing light mode and warm light mode.

The IP45 waterproof and weatherproof feature is enough to sustain the lights under extreme weather conditions.

Unfortunately, the DenicMic solar step lights don’t have a warranty. However, the company has a 30-day return policy if you’re dissatisfied with the product (which we doubt you will be).

Material: Plastic | Product dimensions: 3.51” L x 2.36” W x 2.88” H | Number of light sources: 6 | Special feature: 3-way switching | Batteries: 1AA batteries required (included).

What to look for in outdoor solar step lights

Design

Outdoor solar step lights come in numerous designs. Therefore, consider your design preference before making a purchase.

Brightness

Always select solar step lights that are bright enough to illuminate your steps perfectly. Look out for lights with 10 lumens per light and above.

Durability

Of course, you’d want long-lasting solar step lights, so go for solar lights made with durable materials like stainless steel, ABS, and polypropylene.

Run time

Consider how long the step lights will serve you after a full battery charge, and go for those with the highest running time. A decent run time is over 10 hours.

Price

Just like any other commodity, consider the cost of the solar step lights you’re eyeing and ensure that they are within your budget. However, strike a balance between the price and the quality of the lights you intend to purchase.

FAQ SECTION

How do I care for and maintain my outdoor solar step lights?

Most outdoor solar step lights do not require much care and maintenance, just a quick, occasional wipe with a damp cloth. However, to find the exact care and maintenance instructions for the lights you’ve bought, check the manual that comes with the product or check the manufacturer’s site or reach out to the manufacturer.

Where should I buy my outdoor solar step lights from?

You can get outdoor solar step lights in reputable online stores like Walmart, Amazon, and the manufacturer’s official site.

How do I install my outdoor solar step lights?

Installation of outdoor solar step lights is different depending on the brand. Check the manual that comes with the lights for specific installation directions.

What are some of the downsides of using outdoor solar step lights?

One of the significant downsides of outdoor solar step lights is that they depend solely on the sun to work. Therefore, on gloomy days, the charge time of these lights is longer, and they may not shine as brightly.

  • Nichole Hutt

    Hi, I'm Nichole! 👋
    I always felt close to nature during my childhood. Preferring to spend my time alone playing with backyard animals at my family farm. 🐷
    In 1997, I attained my electrical engineering degree at the Oregon Institute Of Technology, graduating top of my class. Several years later, I qualified for my M.S. in Renewable Energy Engineering, also at OIT. 🎓

    Combining my love for nature and passion for engineering, I have worked for solar panel manufacturer's in my state, most notably as a PV solar engineer for Zamp Solar.

    I founded RenewableSystems to share my knowledge and expertise in the renewable energy field and help save this beautiful little planet of ours. ☀️🌎

Leave a Comment