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The Best Solar Lights for Shade

Written by K. Miller / Fact checked by J. Fussell

best solar lights for shade

Nowadays, countless eco lights are sold on the market. However, this could be a challenge to pick the best solar lights for shade.

Solar lights are great investments because they are easy to install and use; they save energy, and don’t require high maintenance. Many people prefer them because they can provide a brighter light than conventional wired alternatives.

Suppose you have a dimly lit garden, patio, driveway, pathway, or any other spot that could be potentially dangerous, you should consider purchasing premium quality solar lights.

You don’t need to worry about the first time buying a solar light as this post intends to help you choose the most appropriate solar light that could meet your needs. Let us weigh the options available!

solar-lights-for-under-trees

Best Overall

GIGALUMI Solar Lights

✅ IP44 waterproof rating
✅ Outstanding lighting effect
✅ Durable metal & glass materials

Details

Premium Choice

InnoGear Solar Lights

✅ More enhanced brightness
✅ Faster solar energy conversion
✅ Two different approaches

Details

Editor’s Choice

Biling Solar Light

✅ Doesn’t require a battery
✅ Long working time
✅ No need for wiring

Details

Top 8 Solar Light for Shade Reviews

1. GIGALUMI Solar Pathway Lights

Specifications
  • Lumens: 10 lumens
  • Charging Time: 4-6 hours
  • Operating Time: 8 hours
  • Water resistance: IP44

For those who prefer solar lights that are easy to install, and can ensure special lighting effects, this option will work best for you. Its quality is top-rated since it uses top-quality metal and glass materials. This GIGALUMI model can resist water since it is integrated with IP44 waterproof rating.

It is interesting to know that this solar pathway light can offer satisfying performance even when the weather is snowy, cloudy, or rainy. Also, it could serve as a beautiful adornment in your walkway, pathway, yard, patio, garden, and lawn area.

This solar-powered light automatically charges from 4 up to 6 hours in direct sunlight, and it can automatically function for 8 hours in total at night. It is equipped with a superb-capacity 600mAh NiMH battery that can guarantee extended illumination. Please note that rainy seasons may lengthen the charging period.

This product is user-friendly because you only need to set it up as the instruction, then push it in a location where it could gather sufficient sunlight. Consider moistening the soil, or dig a tiny hole first if the land spot you intend to place the light is too hard.

The lamp has a very elegant brown color. Indeed, since it is engineered with sturdy build materials, it possesses a more robust anti-collision resistance. Thanks to this, the surroundings decorated with this light will look more appealing.

On the other hand, the top section of this solar light is slightly heavy. I think this might come from its good quality glass lens. Luckily, it is not a severe problem since you only need to ensure that your light is properly installed and fixed vertically.
Pros
  • Provides outstanding lighting effect
  • Made with durable metal and glass materials
  • Automatically charges from 4 to 6 hours in direct sunlight
  • Designed with IP44 waterproof rating
  • Automatically works up to eight hours at night time
Cons
  • A little heavy top portion
In general, if excellent illumination and attractive design are what you are searching for, then this solar light won’t disappoint you.

2. InnoGear Solar Outdoor Lights

Specifications
  • Lumens: 200 lumens
  • Charging Time: 30% faster
  • Operating Time: 6-12 hours
  • Resistance rating: Weather resistant

If you are in the hunt for outdoor solar lamps made with more enhanced brightness and two working modes, then InnoGear lights are your perfect match. Many consumers pick this one because they can rotate the light head to any out of reach location.

Moreover, you can assemble it in two different methods – mounting on the wall or staking it into the ground. This is not only ideal for combatting rainy days; it can also withstand other harsh weather conditions such as strong winds and extreme heat. So, you can be at peace that it won’t get damaged easily.

What makes this a standout option is its solar energy conversion rate that is up to 30% faster compared to previous models, due to its high-quality construction materials and the use of advanced technology. Also, it is practical to use for your garage, patio, pathway, yard, driveway, deck pool, garden, or any dim spot.

You will be impressed by this solar spotlight’s capability of casting a focused ray to accentuate a fascinating sculpture or any adornment, regardless of how dark the place is.

You could choose between a low mode and a high mode to prolong its working period. This option can spot the light condition in your surroundings, and it can also turn on and off automatically.

This alternative is designed with a sleek panel surface that serves a vital role in warding off debris and dirt from building up and obstructing sunlight. Also, the kit contains all necessary tools for assembly.

However, this InnoGear solar light and panel could be rated five stars if they can swivel independently on the horizontal plane. This could be a slight problem since landscapes are not designed the same.
Pros
  • Designed with more enhanced brightness
  • 30% faster solar energy conversion rate
  • Can be installed in two different approaches
  • Resistant to all types of harsh weather conditions
  • Have two working modes feature
Cons
  • Swivel limitedly and on vertical planes only
Overall, this is still a wise investment since it can ensure incredible durability, superb performance and quality.

3. Biling Solar Lights Outdoor Grid

Specifications
  • Lumens: 1500 lumens
  • Charging Time: 6 hours
  • Operating Time: 4-5 hours
  • Water resistance: IP65

This outdoor solar light is famous for its extended working time and upgraded solar panel. The solar panel’s conversion rate is 20% higher than competitors’. More than that, the capacity of its battery amounts to 800mAh, this conveys that it could store more energy, so they are brighter and can work for a longer time.

Even if you install it at the very first time, this product won’t give you a hard time. You can instantly assemble the ground light on your preferred spot. You only need to ensure that you situate it in an area where it could be exposed to the direct heat of the sun at day time.

This product is one of the chosen lights that homeowners and business owners pick for their lawns, gardens, corridors, sidewalks, and courtyard. Additionally, there is no need to take this in-ground designed solar light because it does not call for high maintenance, and is energy-saving.

When mowing the lawn, you don’t even need to remove it. It is manufactured with wireless design to keep safe even if there are children and pets around.

Apart from this, I think you will be stunned by its distinctive light shell grid and stake non-slip design. The LEDs illuminate brightly, so you can always enjoy a good night view.

Biling Solar Light would radiate automatically at twilight and charge automatically during day time. It is advised to use the bottom switch before assembly. If you want to add light to your dark walkway, then installing this is the solution!

The only thing that would dismay you a bit is the plastic material of this solar outdoor light. It is prone to scratches. So, be sure to install them in a secure place to avoid this.
Pros
  • Easy installation and does not require a battery
  • Guarantees long working time
  • No need for wiring and ensures mower safety
  • Manufactured with upgraded solar panel
  • Features non-slip and distinctive shell grid and stake design
Cons
  • Plastic material is prone to scratches
To conclude, this solar disk light is the ideal pick to allow stunning lighting on sidewalks, courtyard, corridors, gardens, and lawns.

4. URPOWER SL-39 Solar Lights

Specifications
  • Charging Time: 4-6 hours
  • Operating Time: 8 hours
  • Water resistance: IP65

Do you prefer solar light designed with an upgraded version? If so, this product can work wonders for you. This comes with bigger size, can charge fast and can help you save more on energy bills. It can even become a decoration that lights up your place.

Furthermore, this product features a built-in rechargeable 600mAh Ni-MH battery that is intended to optimize illuminating time. Its battery is highly efficient and could radiate by up to 8 hours in summer and 5 hours in cold winter after a full charge of 4 to 6 hours under direct sunlight.

The URPOWER SL-39 is practical for several different applications. It is built with anti-corrosion ABS plastic and aluminum, that’s why it could guarantee superb durability and extended lifespan. Whatever the weather is, I’m sure you’ll have no worries since it is waterproof.

The installation process is a breeze. It does not require wiring since you could embed the solar light directly into the soil. It adds lovely color around pathways, driveways, yard, garden or patio.

This solar light cycles through distinct colors when the LED inside the flower runs. This hepls the light illuminate your living space, especially on special occasions

You will love observing real-like and colorful solar flower lights radiating in your residence. The small solar panel keeps the batteries charged up for several hours. If you want to behold a fantastic view at night, this solar light can meet your needs!

While there is no doubt that this solar light is a cinch to assemble, you need to handle it with extra care, because the rod seems frail. You should be careful when placing the solar light into the ground.
Pros
  • Energy-efficient and fast charge
  • Built-in rechargeable 600mAh Ni-MH battery
  • Attractive design and colors where it’s installed
  • Comes with IP65 waterproof rating
  • Ideal for several applications
Cons
  • Slightly delicate
Unquestionably, this option is very affordable, yet it looks colorful and eye-catching around your preferred spot.

5. Linkind Solar Landscape Spotlights

Specifications
  • Lumens: 650 lumens
  • Charging Time: 20% faster
  • Operating Time: 6/12/24 hours
  • Water resistance: IP67

If you are presently hunting for the top-rated solar lights for shaded areas, you can give this product a closer look. In comparison among Linkind Solar Landscape Spotlight and other options, this product comes with upgraded three-brightness illuminating modes. Such an important feature allows the solar light to remain operating for 24, 12, or 6 hours after being fully charged.

This Linkind Solar Landscape spotlight is constructed with a built-in sensor, so it could disclose if there are alterations in the natural light. It automatically turns on at nightfall and turns off at the crack of dawn, also, it performs precisely as advertised. The motion detection feature can execute its function quite well.

The solar panels are adjustable and larger, which can offer a 20% increase in conversion rate and reduce the charging time. More than that, you could instantly modify the light direction by merely altering the panels at 180-degrees horizontally or 90-degrees vertically.

Interestingly, the narrower 90-degree beam angle makes this solar light ideal for accentuating and radiating dusky spots in your place. It can generate a maximum of 650 lumen light output, which is much brighter than other similar products. This product is also durable enough to resist any harsh weather condition.

The solar light comes with an IP67 waterproof rating, and its premium quality lithium battery can ensure the extended working time. This is a reliable product because FCC CE also approves it. It guarantees trouble-free assembly, and you can install it on the wall or fix it to the ground.

Nevertheless, just like other solar lights out there, you need to ensure its position is exposed to a good source of sunlight; otherwise, it won’t charge properly and is incapable of providing great lighting.
Pros
  • Ideal to use for accentuation and illumination purposes
  • Larger size and can be easily adjusted
  • Can withstand different extreme weather conditions
  • Features three distinct lighting modes
  • Longer-lasting battery working time
Cons
  • Not fully charged without full sunlight
Lastly, if you opt for a brighter solar light that operates without any trouble, and have a breeze to install into the ground, this product is your safest bet!

6. MEIKEE Solar Outdoor Spotlight

Specifications
  • Lumens: 150 lumens
  • Charging Time: 8 hours
  • Operating Time: 12 hours
  • Water resistance: Yes

This automatic on and off solar-powered spotlight is engineered with exceptional pressure resistance and heat dissipation feature. Besides, it is manufactured using top-quality cast aluminium material. It can also automatically turn on at nightfall and turn off at day time.

The 270-degree easy-to-adjust head provides stellar lighting for flags, walls, trees and fences. The spotlight also lets you have full control and aim the illumination where you prefer. This is broadly utilized for outdoor decorations and other locations where it is dusky.

The spotlight is designed with a light spike and a fixed spherical base. There are a couple of methods on how to set up a spotlight. You can embed the light spike into the lawn or ground if you like; the other approach is to fix it using screws anywhere you desire.

Indeed, since this product is made with a uniquely sturdy waterproof connector light and solar panel, it is durable enough to combat various weather conditions all year round. Hence, this attribute makes it an excellent option for extended usage and sterling outdoor lighting applications.

This MEIKEE model is solar-powered. It is energy-efficient, eco-friendly and does not require any connection of the household power supply. It is also equipped with 2 Watts/6 Volts solar panel, and a replaceable/rechargeable 3000mAh lithium-ion battery. Its battery is reliable to work for a total of 12 hours when fully charged.

It is nice to know that the solar panel charges the lights quite excellently, and it does not even take much time to do so.

One minor drawback that you may encounter with this product is that the control buttons situated at the rear section are a little fragile. Henc, they require much care to handle.
Pros
  • Features excellent pressure resistance and heat dissipation
  • Great for a broad range of applications
  • Offers two effortless installation methods
  • Designed with upgraded IP66 waterproof rating
  • Can work for 12 hours after full charge
Cons
  • The tiny control buttons at the back are flimsy.
The MEIKEE Solar Outdoor Spotlight is adorable, it is certified great value for the money, and it produces super bright lighting than others.

7. Maggift Vintage Solar Pathway Lights

Specifications
  • Lumens: 15 lumens
  • Charging Time: 6-8 hours
  • Operating Time: 8-10 hours
  • Water resistance: IP44

Do solar lights work in the shade? This is probably the question that lingers on our minds every time we think of buying a solar light. Luckily, they work quite well as long as they receive sufficient sunlight and are fully charged.

If you do not want to get disappointed spending on solar lights that won’t even meet your requirements, then give this product a shot. This solar garden light works efficiently and automatically. It turns on at evening time and turns off in the early morning.

It comes with a warm white color LED bulb with 15 lumens, so that it does not fail to provide outstanding illumination wherever you put it. It’s a cinch to put together, and its battery capacity is excellent that it could last nearly the whole night.

I picked this option because it is energy-saving, it does not harm the environment, and it delivers satisfying performance. Aside from the impressive lighting it offers, it can also make the surroundings fascinating.

With its IP44 waterproof rating, there is no need to worry even when your location is prone to harsh weather conditions. Please note that it is essential to lift the tab underneath the light cover before charging.

Fortunately, it is hassle-free to purchase some rechargeable batteries that are upgraded and come with a larger capacity. Maggift Vintage Solar Pathway Light comes with an excellent height, and there is no difficulty to keep the base in the ground and remove the light when mowing the lawn.

Nonetheless, the flimsy stakes are noticeable since they are built with a soft plastic material that snaps quite instantly. It would have been better if these were made with high-quality plastic material.
Pros
  • Can turn on and off automatically
  • No need for professional help when installing
  • Long service life, energy-efficient, and eco-friendly design
  • Can serve as a stunning adornment
  • Comes with IP44 waterproof rating
Cons
  • Comes with flimsy stakes
In conclusion, this solar light is a smart investment that you won’t ever regret. It is long-lasting and can satisfy your expectations.
Outdated Products

Brightown Solar Pathway Lights (Outdated)

Are you currently hunting for finely detailed solar outdoor lights? If the answer is yes, then you can give this option a try. Brightown solar light can illuminate outdoor spaces outstandingly. It has an impressive energy-saving feature, therefore, you will have no worries about costly electric bills.

This product can create a comfortable, fascinating and a secure atmosphere wherever you place it. Furthermore, this solar pathway light is made of corrosion-resistant ABS plastic; which is incredibly durable and is tightly sealed. Thanks to this, tough weather conditions such as snow, sleet, rain or frost cannot break your light easily.

The Brightown Solar Pathway doesn’t emit blue or yellow but neutral white light. This is why it can serve an elegant décor wherever you wish to install it.

Do you know this product is one of the most reasonably priced options available? If you have a limited budget, this product can be your ideal pick.

Also, it doesn’t take much time to install this solar light. All you need to do is lift the isolator tab located below the cap, then embed the lamp into the lawn soil.

This light can work without supervision, so you’ll enjoy watching them automatically turning on when the sun sets, and turning off at dawn.

Besides, the 5 LM 4600K-5600K LED light can radiate spacious pathways toward your residence. Hence, you can be guaranteed of more excellent eye protection as well. Another good news is you can now beautify and illuminate your surroundings without the need to worry about costly electric bills.

The customer service support is a small disadvantage of this light. Luckily, the moment you can get in touch with the after service team, they respond urgently.
Pros
  • Guarantee second to none LED light illumination
  • Come with an outstanding energy-saving feature
  • Weather-resistant and easy to set up
  • Can serve as a great decoration
  • An affordable price
Cons
  • Hard-to-contact customer service support
Above all, if you want to make a significant investment, but do not wish to spend lavishly for solar light, this option will make you satisfied.

What to Look for When Buying Solar Lights for Shade

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Before you decide to buy any solar light for shade, please consider the following factors to come up with the best idea:

  • Brightness

Brighter lighting is necessary for some security purposes like walkways, driveways and pathways. On the other hand, various types of landscapes and gardens also call for moderate lighting to add a touch of fascination or romance.

Hence, the solar light’s brightness will depend on your lighting purposes. Solar lights that use LED bulbs vary in brightness levels. LED bulbs with low lumens offer warm and gentle lighting, while those with high lumens generate much brighter lighting.

  • Lighting Functions

The more lighting functions a solar light can provide the costlier its price tag is. For instance, solar street lighting is more expensive than garden lighting.

Besides, if you select an atmospheric light, this won’t be able to generate great lighting functions. However, a LED light designed with motion sensors can offer more security, particularly if it is placed in neighboring backdoors, pathways, or garages.

  • Capacity and Type of Battery

Solar-powered batteries require being directly exposed to sunlight to get fully charged. However, some versions can be charged even when they are not exposed to full sunlight.

You should avoid picking models that are incapable of operating from nightfall to early morning for security purposes.

  • Lighting Effects

Solar lights are designed with varying lighting effects. Some models generate amber and cozy glow that create very ideal landscapes. Nonetheless, there are LED solar lights that aim to emit long-standing and brighter lighting. Such lighting effects are great for keeping pathways sufficiently lit and secure.

Remember to check the lighting hue. Most solar light versions these days use LED bulbs, and their light is nearly bright white shade. Meanwhile, if you search for incandescent bulbs, check those that come with tinted covers. Such models are commonly marked as soft white or amber glow lights.

  • Smart Features

Generally speaking, the more smart features your solar lights have, the more functional they are. For instance, solar light versions that can adjust their light intensity based on their surroundings are adept at saving more energy, and could last longer.

The price of solar lights with more advanced features is higher, but they could offer you with lots of perks, security and satisfaction. If you can afford a high-end product, don’t hesitate to opt for more upgraded versions.

How Much Sunlight Do Solar Lights Need

do-solar-lights-work-in-the-shade

Solar lights can work more efficiently if they receive direct sunlight. This means the more sunlight they collect at day time, the more they will charge up.

The amount of sunlight they gather would directly affect the length of time theirs light remains illuminated during the evening. A fully-charged solar light from 8 hours of daylight can approximately be able to operate for 15 hours.

Cloudy weather could affect the manner that solar lights charge; this is primarily caused by the cover would not allow as much light to penetrate.

When it is hazy, you can observe a decline in the longevity of your illumination in the evening. Additionally, utilizing solar lights for an extended period without adequate sunlight may sooner or later impair their capability to charge appropriately.

This is why during the coldest or hazy, cloudy season, the operating times of outdoor solar lights may differ as much as 30 to 50%.

While it is true that solar batteries could charge with the aid of incandescent light, it is generally much better to charge them under direct sunlight.

For those who own solar lights that are separate from the solar cell panel, the panel is the only one that needs to be situated in a spot where they will be allowed to collect more sunlight.

Will Solar Lights Work in the Shade

Definitely yes! Also, keep in mind that solar lights work excellently in the shade, you need to ensure to install them in an area where the solar panel could collect or receive sufficient sunlight.

It is essential to understand that solar lights function in a more straightforward approach. They are manufactured with a solar panel and also come with a rechargeable battery that is constructed into their system.

Solar panels gather sunlight at day time, and then the solar energy is converted to power. The installed batteries are purposely made to store power; this power is utilized in operating the lights during the evening.

Solar lights are plain sailing to operate, no supervision needed, and only require minimal maintenance. They work automatically once correctly installed. Solar lights turn on in the evening and turn off in day time.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, the appropriate solar lights could offer sufficient illumination to any location. People consider buying the best solar lights for shade because these significantly help preserve the environment; they work more efficiently and are energy-saving.

All solar lights reviewed above are top-rated products chosen by consumers worldwide. They are all user-friendly, smooth sailing to set up and use. Besides, they don’t require high maintenance.

We hope the useful knowledge provided in this article can immensely help you purchase the right solar lights for shade. Don’t forget to consider all reliable options so that you can make a wise decision.

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