Summer nights are perfect to spend outside with your family and friends, but when the dusk sets it, you might feel the need for a bit more light for your activities. Patio umbrella lights can be helpful if you have your umbrella close to a table and multiple chairs when everybody gathers for dinner or just having a drink. But if you thought choosing the best patio umbrella lights was easy, think again.
There are a lot of features to take into account when shopping for patio umbrella lights, and this guide will help you make the best choice. When reviewing the best patio umbrella lights on the market, we looked at multiple features, including type, power source, power, number of lights, different modes, and dimensions. By choosing umbrella lights for your patio you can keep the party going as late as you want.
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Editor’s Choice: OYOCO Patio Umbrella Light"This unit features a modern design combined with high energy-saving abilities. Multi-functional. Multiple brightness modes. Versatility."
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Best Value: Sunlitec Solar String Lights"These lights come equipped with 25 LED balls. Multiple lightning modes. Waterproof. Dual-charging mode."
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Budget Pick: Ywhomal Patio Umbrella Lights"This budget-friendliest model features all you might need for lightening your patio umbrella. Remote control. Waterproof. Timer option."
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Best Battery: CREATIVE DESIGN Patio Umbrella Lights"This is a practical and cost-effective choice. 32 LEDs. Batteries last for months. USB cord included."
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Best Smart Light: Texsens LED Umbrella Light"This light has a wireless speaker included with stereo sound quality. Bluetooth connectivity. Built-in 4000MAH rechargeable battery. Great for parties."
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Best Solar Lights: Etercycle Outdoor Solar Patio Umbrella String Light"These lights work for up to 16 hours after they have been fully charged. Easy installation. Auto recharge during the day. Numerous lightning modes."
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Best Lantern Lights: GVSHINE LED Solar Mission Lantern"Lantern lights are great alternative to regular umbrella lights. Highly versatile. Portable and easy to install. Solar powered."
Top 7 Patio Umbrella Lights Review 2022
OYOCO Patio Umbrella Light
- Type:disk
- Power source:batteries, 4 x AA (not included)
- Voltage:6
- Number of lights: 28
- Modes: 3
- Dimensions: 6.3 x 1.1 inches
Other features: 200 lumens, fit pole size from 0.86 inch to 1.81 inch in diameter, easy installation, suitable not only for umbrella
The OYOCO Patio Umbrella Light features a modern design combined with high energy-saving abilities. We chose to feature this umbrella as our editor’s choice because it’s one of the best models around to transform your patio umbrella into a bright outdoor lamp so you can relax outside while chatting with friends and family members or simply reading your favorite book.
This umbrella has three brightness modes so you can adjust it according to your preferences and the level of natural light that is still going on outside. We like that you don’t need any tools to install this lamp because it comes with an adjustable strong clamp. The OYOCO Patio Umbrella Light has 28 LED bulbs that are bright enough to provide light for the entire party while also saving on energy. This multifunctional umbrella can be used for a variety of outdoor activities, but you need to keep in mind that it is not waterproof, which means that you can’t use it on a rainy night.
The OYOCO Patio Umbrella Light requires four AA batteries, which are not included, and can be hung anywhere thanks to the auto adjustable clamp. You can mount it face down for direct lightning or face up if you want indirect lightning for your outdoor area. Many of the users who tested and reviewed the OYOCO Patio Umbrella Light mentioned that it is a highly versatile light that is easy to install and use in all kinds of situations.
What makes it special?
- Easy to install and use
- Multi-functional
- Multiple brightness modes
What cons did we find?
- Not waterproof
Sunlitec Solar String Lights
- Type:string
- Power source:solar/battery
- Voltage: 5/3.7
- Number of lights: 25
- Modes: 1
- Dimensions: 27 ft
Other features: 50,000 hours LED bulb lifetime, 1-year warranty, 3,000 Kelvin color temperature, comes with LED G40 bulbs, bulbs are 10 inches apart, suitable not only for umbrella
If you’re looking for the best patio umbrella lights that come in the form of a string, the Sunlitec Solar String Lights are an excellent choice. These lights come equipped with 25 LED balls to protect the boats from breakage and you can expect them to last for up to 50,000 hours. The Sunlitec Solar String Lights have multiple lightning modes so you can choose the perfect one to set the mood, with options ranging from steady light to slow flash and pulsating light.
What we liked most about the Sunlitec Solar String Lights is the fact that they sport a dual charging mode, which means that you can either hook them up to a 5V solar panel or use an USB cable to recharge them. It takes approximately four hours for the lights to get charged via USB and approximately eight hours for a full charge on the solar panel.
The Sunlitec Solar String Lights are waterproof so you can use them no matter the weather. After all, what is better than sitting outside on a summer evening and watch the rain? The lights are very easy to install and most of the users tested them mentioned that they gave a soothing light that is very pleasant. These lights are the perfect choice for those who wants to create the ideal atmosphere for celebration and work perfectly well for commercial purposes as well.
What cons did we find?
- The lamps are quite fragile
Ywhomal Patio Umbrella Lights
- Type:string
- Power source:batteries, 3 x AA (not included)
- Voltage:5
- Number of lights: 104
- Modes: 8
- Dimensions: 4.3 ft x 8
Other features: 600 lumens, IP65 Waterproof, remote control, timer, suitable not only for umbrella
The Ywhomal Patio Umbrella Lights are traditional string lights that illuminate your outdoor space while also creating a magical atmosphere that will make everyone enjoy the party even more. Because they come in string form these lights are easy to install however you want, and you can easily control them thanks to the remote control that comes included.
These lights come with 104 LEDs in a total of eight strings, which is more than enough to illuminate even large outdoor areas. These lights run at 5 V and are waterproof, which means that you can use them no matter the weather. You can create various shapes and patterns with the help of the eight strings and many of the people who revealed them like that the Ywhomal Patio Umbrella Lights are highly versatile. Moreover, you can control the lightning mode and brightness while also being able to set a timer for the lights to go on automatically.
The strings are made from IP67 copper wire for extra durability, and the lights can also be powered by three AAA batteries that are not included, which comes in very handy if the power goes off. Besides being suitable for patios, these umbrella string lights are also ideal for restaurants, cafes, outdoor restaurants on the beach and much more. They are the perfect brightness for accent lightning, while also being powerful enough to illuminate your entire garden on a summer evening.
What makes it stand out?
- Easy to install
- Remote control is included
- Waterproof
Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
- Can be a bit flimsy
CREATIVE DESIGN Patio Umbrella Lights
- Type:disc
- Power source:USB rechargeable battery
- Voltage: 3.7
- Number of lights: 32
- Modes: 2
- Dimensions: 6.3 x 6.3 x 1.25 inches
Other features: 300 lumens, pole size ranging from 0.8in to 1.9in in diameter, high-quality thick ABS shell, USB cable included
The CREATIVE DESIGN Patio Umbrella Lights are practical and cost-effective choice that is also very easily styled thanks to the auto adjustable clasps. You don’t need any tools to install these lights on your umbrella, which makes this lamp a suitable choice for anyone who is looking for a simple way to illuminate their outdoor space. This light has 32 LEDs and produces 300 lumens, which is more than enough to allow everyone to enjoy their dinner and even play cards or read a book.
This lightning gadget is suitable for umbrellas with a pole size of 0.8 inches to 1.9 inches in diameter, which means that it should work with just about any patio umbrella. The CREATIVE DESIGN Patio Umbrella Lights don’t come with a remote control, but you can easily turn on different modes of brightness by pressing the switch button twice. A super bright mode is available if you want to enjoy maximum lightning for a party or another event.
We like that the CREATIVE DESIGN Patio Umbrella Lights comes with an installation manual that makes it easy to install it in just under five minutes. The lights have multiple functions and required four AA batteries, which are not included in the package, but are readily available in any store. The Bayshore umbrella light is an excellent choice not only for page-one rollers, but also for camping, barbecues, or even for small businesses with tables outside.
What makes it stand out?
- Super easy to install
- Batteries last for months
- USB cord included
Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
- No indicator for battery level
Texsens LED Umbrella Light
- Type:disc
- Power source:USB rechargeable lithium ion battery
- Voltage:100-240
- Number of lights: 48
- Modes: 2
- Dimensions: 7.87 x 1.7 inches
Other features: White Light and RGB (7 colors changing), 6h/play music and lighting for 3h, rubber belt, mobile device can be charged by USB port, 1-year warranty
Smart devices are everywhere these days so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that you can also find patio umbrella lights with smart capabilities. The Texsens LED Umbrella Light has a wireless speaker included with stereo sound quality so we can enjoy your favorite music while dining alfresco. The device also comes with colorful lights to create a pleasant ambience, and it has an USB port so you can charge your phone or tablet.
Suitable for all kinds of outdoor activities, including camping, barbecues, playing cards, or simply enjoying a home-cooked meal or a summer evening, the Texsens LED Umbrella Light is easy it to connect to your phone or another device the Bluetooth so you can stream your favorite tunes. Because it is compatible with the vast majority of Bluetooth devices you can use it to play music from your phone, computer, laptop, CD player, MP3 player and more. It’s also very easy to install because it has a cordless design and there are absolutely no tools necessary to get started. The lamp comes with an adjustable clamp that goes up and down for extra versatility.
The Texsens LED Umbrella Light has a 10 m working distance range from the device you are streaming music from and sports a built-in 4000MAH rechargeable battery that gives you hours of music time and all the light you need at the same time. Most users mentioned that the speaker is clear and loud enough to allow everyone to hear the music.
What are our favorite features?
- Very easy to install
- Bluetooth connectivity
- Integrated wireless speaker
What could be better?
- Some hiccups with Bluetooth pairing
Etercycle Outdoor Solar Patio Umbrella String Light
- Type:string
- Power source:solar
- Voltage:5
- Number of lights: 104
- Modes: 8
- Dimensions: 4.27 ft x 8
Other features: working up to 16 hours after fully charged, solar panels or Battery box IP67 protection class, suitable for indoors and outdoors, suitable not only for umbrella, dimmable
If you are looking for patio umbrella lights that are powered by solar energy, the Etercycle Outdoor Solar Patio Umbrella String Light are sure to catch your attention. These lights work for up to 16 hours after they have been fully charged and they light up automatically at night and turn off during the day to recharge. With these slides, you don’t have to worry about replacing batteries or having the umbrella close the power source.
The Etercycle Outdoor Solar Patio Umbrella String Light have eight working modes so you can choose from multiple learning styles, including fading slowly, waves, combination, twinkle, and more so you have something suitable for any occasion. These lights are perfect for decorating not only work patio and garden, but they can also be used for events such as weddings, for beach parties or as lights for a café. These highly versatile umbrella lights are waterproof and easy to install, and they come with 104 LEDs on eight strings. The solar panel has safety features included so you don’t have to worry about any damage caused by moisture or bad weather. Some of the users who reviewed them mention that there might be some problems when changing lightning modes, but others mentioned that they work great for the purpose intended.
What makes it special?
- Easy to install on any umbrella
- Auto recharge during the day
- Multiple lightning modes
What cons did we find?
- Doesn't retain mode selection
GVSHINE LED Solar Mission Lantern
- Type:lantern
- Power source:solar
- Voltage: 1.2
- Number of lights: 4
- Modes: 1
- Dimensions: 3.5 x 3.5 x 5 inches
Other features: 4 pack, working up to 8 hours after fully charged, 1-year warranty, portable and light weight with clip, suitable not only for umbrella, waterproof design, candle effect
Lantern lights are great alternative to regular umbrella lights, and they are easy to hang anywhere outdoor, including on your umbrella. These portable and lightweight lanterns allow you to illuminate any corner of your backyard while also being highly decorative and providing you with a romantic atmosphere.
The GVSHINE LED Solar Mission Lanterns are powered by solar energy, so all you need to do is take them under direct sunshine for 4 to 6 hours in order to recharge the batteries. The built in rechargeable battery is more than enough to provide you with light for an entire evening and don’t have to worry about any extra costs for batteries or electricity. Some of the users who tested them mentioned that the lanterns are a bit on the small side, but they are still an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a romantic atmosphere in their backyard.
We like the vintage look of these lanterns that make them ideal not only for their main illumination purpose, but also as decorations. They have a waterproof design, which means that you don’t have to worry about the lanterns being damaged in the rain, and the body is made from heatproof stainless-steel material that is highly durable so you can enjoy your landowners for years to come. The GVSHINE LED Solar Mission Lanterns come with a 12 months warranty for extra peace of mind.
What stands out?
- Highly versatile
- Portable and easy to install
- Solar powered
What cons did we manage to find?
- Smaller than expected
Things to Consider
A comfortable setup with a table, multiple chairs, and an umbrella is something that is very common to see on a patio. If you’re one of the people who likes to spend a lazy summer evening dining alfresco or simply spending time with family and friends, you might want a source of light directly over your table.
Whether it’s just so you can see each other or to make it possible to play cards or board games, patio umbrella lights are a quick way to get just the right amount you need, not to mention they’re also great at creating a romantic ambience. If you wonder what you should look for when choosing patio umbrella lights, this buying guide will provide you with everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
Features to consider when choosing patio umbrella lights
When shopping for patio umbrella lights, you need to pay attention to a multitude of details, including the type of lights you want to install, the power source they use, the number of lights, LED count, brightness rating, voltage, and more. You should also look at various accessories the lights might come with, such as a remote control, for example, as they may make the entire experience more enjoyable.
Type
The two main types of patio umbrella lights you can find on the market are string lights and umbrella disc lights. Both of them come with pros and cons, but before deciding which type would work best for you, think about why you need the lights in the first place.
If you’re looking to create a calming or relaxing atmosphere in your backyard, then string lights are an excellent choice, as they are able to create that kind of “magical” ambience. On the other hand, if you want to be able to complete your tasks after the sun sets, disc-style lights are a more suitable solution, mostly because they can provide more intense illumination.
Disc lights are generally designed to connect to the shaft and generate light downwards. As such, the light is more focused and allows you to continue to do any task you want even after sunset.
Power source
You can choose from three types of power sources for patio umbrella lights. These include solar powered umbrella lights, battery-operated umbrella lights and patio umbrella lights that you can plug into mains.
Solar powered lights, such as the Etercycle Outdoor Solar Patio Umbrella String Light, are a green alternative to electric and battery-operated lights. They use power from the sun to power your lights. They are a great option for summer because they can recharge during the day, being ready to use in the evening, without any effort from your part. Nevertheless, if you live in an area with lots of cloudy days, they might not be a great option.
Patio umbrella lights that work with rechargeable batteries, such as the OYOCO Patio Umbrella Light, for example, are an energy-efficient and cost-effective way to illuminate your outdoor area. Many models use regular AA rechargeable or single-use batteries, and some models, like the Sunlitec Solar String Lights, feature built-in batteries for solar recharging, while also allowing users to use AA batteries as needed.
Finally, so patio umbrella lights are powered by a standard plug connected to the mains electricity supply. While these are not the most environmentally-friendly options, they are generally the least expensive. Keep in mind, however, that they will come with a wire, which might be both unattractive and a tripping hazard at the same time.
Voltage
The voltage of patio umbrella lights differs from one model to another, but generally you should expect it to be at least 5V. Some models, like The Texsens LED Umbrella Light, for example, have a voltage that’s higher at the average at 100-240V.
Number of lights
The number of lights you get with patio umbrella lights vary from one model to another, with The Texsens LED Umbrella Light having 48 lights, for example. The Ywhomal Patio Umbrella Lights has 104 lights, which is more than enough to light up a party. If you’re looking for patio umbrella lights with lots of bulbs, strand models are generally your best bet.
Modes
Many patio umbrella lights have different modes, which work well for different purposes. The Etercycle Outdoor Solar Patio Umbrella String Light, for example, has eight modes, including fading and twinkle, to create a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for a romantic dinner. Other models have different modes, some of them suitable for regular use and others ideal for parties.
Patio umbrella construction
When shopping for patio umbrella lights, make sure the model you choose is a suitable choice for the type of umbrella you have. For example, if you’re opting for a string-style model, make sure your umbrella has enough room to accommodate them. The pole of the umbrella should also be easy to unscrew in the center so you can take it off easily for installation.
Dimensions
The dimensions of the patio umbrella lights are important not only when it comes to the amount of light you’re going to get from your device, but also for the installation process.
Extras
Many patio umbrella lights come with additional features, such as dimmable lights to create a special ambience with the click of a button, like in the case of the Etercycle Outdoor Solar Patio Umbrella String Light, for example. Others, like the Ywhomal Patio Umbrella Lights, come complete with a remote control so you can easily change the settings without having to get up.
Warranty
Most of the patio umbrella lights we reviewed come with warranty, and you should expect to get at least one year of warranty for most models. This general covers replacements if something goes wrong with the lights, provided they have been used according to the instructions of the manufacturer.
Price
The price of patio umbrella lights varies from one model to another, according to the features they include and the manufacturer that products them. You should expect to pay anything between $25 and $100 for quality patio umbrella lights, keeping in mind that models with lots of features and strand models with numerous bulbs may be even more expensive.
FAQ
The installation process for patio umbrella lights depends on the models you choose, and your first port of call should be the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Generally, you will need to detach the umbrella and remove it from its stand before attaching the lights. If you’re installing disc lights, it’ all a matter of attaching the lamp with the help of the clamp provided.
If you’re installing strand lights, you need to attach the clips provided to each of the ribs, making sure you keep them away from the opening and closing mechanisms. For umbrella lights that use an electric plug to be connected to the electricity mains you also need to position the cord correctly so no one trips on it, which is especially important if you have children or pets.
It’s always a good idea to uninstall the patio umbrella lights when you store the umbrella for winter. This is true for both clip-on disc models and strand lights. By uninstalling the lights, you can store them safely in their box and avoid any damage caused by closing and storing the umbrella with the lights still attached.
Our Verdict
After reviewing dozens of the most popular patio umbrella lights on the market we concluded that the OYOCO Patio Umbrella Light is the best choice out there, and featured it as our editor’s choice. We loved the modern design of this light and the fac that is fits lots of pole sizes while being super easy to install.
In second place come the Sunlitec Solar String Lights, an excellent choice for those who want to get a model that is great value for money. These lights come with 1-year warranty and you can expect the 25 bulbs to last for up to 50,000 hours. We also liked that the lights can be powered both by batteries and solar power.
Finally, if you’re looking for the best patio umbrella lights but you’re on a budget, don’t miss the Ywhomal Patio Umbrella Lights, which come with 104 LEDs in a total of eight strings. These lights are ideal for accent lightning, but also powerful enough to illuminate your garden for a party.
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