The best outdoor lights for backyards are weatherproof string lights, sturdy bulbs, and easy-to-use sockets. They create a warm glow that makes patios, decks, and seating areas feel welcoming after dark.
A few styles work well for small spaces, while longer connectable strands suit bigger yards. Here are six picks that balance style, durability, and simple control.
| addlon 198FT Outdoor String Lights with Remote |  | Best Overall | Length: 198 ft | Bulb Style: ST38 Edison-style | Bulb Count: 60 sockets, 64 bulbs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Brightever 120FT Outdoor String Lights with Remote |  | Best Value | Length: 120 ft | Bulb Style: ST38 LED | Bulb Count: 36+2 bulbs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| RTTY Outdoor G40 String Lights 200 ft Waterproof |  | Best for Large Spaces | Length: 200 ft | Bulb Style: G40 globe | Bulb Count: 74+4 bulbs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| Doukedge Outdoor String Lights 25ft Patio Lights |  | Best Compact Pick | Length: 25 ft | Bulb Style: ST38 Edison-style | Bulb Count: 12+1 bulbs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| VIPAR Outdoor String Lights 100FT ST38 Bulbs |  | Most Durable | Length: 100 ft | Bulb Style: ST38 Edison-style | Bulb Count: 50+2 bulbs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
| VIPAR Outdoor String Lights with Shatterproof Edison Bulbs |  | Best for Small Areas | Length: 25 ft | Bulb Style: ST38 Edison-style | Bulb Count: 10+1 bulbs | VIEW LATEST PRICE | Read Our Analysis |
More Details on Our Top Picks
addlon 198FT Outdoor String Lights with Remote
Should you want backyard lighting that’s easy to control and built to handle the outdoors, the addlon 198FT Outdoor String Lights with Remote are a smart pick. You get 198 feet of warm white ST38 Edison-style LEDs, 60 sockets, and 64 shatterproof PET bulbs, including spares. The remote lets you dim the lights, switch between flash, breath, and constant modes, and set 2, 4, 6, or 8-hour timers. They’re ETL-certified, IP65 weatherproof, energy efficient, linkable, and ideal for patios, porches, gardens, and parties.
- Length:198 ft
- Bulb Style:ST38 Edison-style
- Bulb Count:60 sockets, 64 bulbs
- Color Temperature:Warm white
- Waterproof Rating:IP65
- Dimmable:Remote dimming
- Additional Feature:Remote-controlled modes
- Additional Feature:Timer auto shutoff
- Additional Feature:Linkable up to 200ft
Brightever 120FT Outdoor String Lights with Remote
Brightever’s 120FT outdoor string lights are a strong pick provided you want backyard lighting that’s durable, easy to control, and built for everyday use. You get heavy-duty wires with reinforced PVC coating, shatterproof ST38 LED bulbs, and a lifespan up to 30,000 hours. The LEDs use 90% less energy than incandescent bulbs and run on safe 24V low voltage. Use the remote to switch between steady, flash, or breath modes, then dim from 25% to 100%. Set the 3- or 5-hour timer, and enjoy reliable light on patios, porches, or parties.
- Length:120 ft
- Bulb Style:ST38 LED
- Bulb Count:36+2 bulbs
- Color Temperature:Warm white
- Waterproof Rating:Waterproof
- Dimmable:Dimmable
- Additional Feature:Overload protection adapter
- Additional Feature:Stepless brightness tuning
- Additional Feature:AAA batteries included
RTTY Outdoor G40 String Lights 200 ft Waterproof
Should you want a long, warm-white setup that can handle a backyard, patio, or pergola, the RTTY 200 ft G40 string lights are a smart pick. You get two 100-foot connectable strands with 74 LED G40 bulbs plus 4 spares, and each shatterproof plastic globe gives off a soft 2700K glow. At 74 watts total, they can cut energy use up to 90% compared with incandescent options. They’re waterproof, dimmer-compatible, and built for over 30,000 hours. Weighing 4.5 pounds, they’re easy to hang, and the 12-month warranty adds peace of mind.
- Length:200 ft
- Bulb Style:G40 globe
- Bulb Count:74+4 bulbs
- Color Temperature:2700K warm white
- Waterproof Rating:Waterproof
- Dimmable:Dimmable
- Additional Feature:Two 100ft strands
- Additional Feature:40 lumens per bulb
- Additional Feature:Compatible with dimmers
Doukedge Outdoor String Lights 25ft Patio Lights
Should you want a compact, easy-to-hang string light for a backyard, patio, or balcony, the Doukedge Outdoor String Lights fit well because they deliver 25 feet of warm 2700K light with 13 shatterproof Edison-style bulbs, including one spare. You get 12 installed LED bulbs with an E12 base, spaced 1.5 feet apart, and the cord plugs in for simple power. Their PET plastic shells handle weather, and the IPX4 waterproof rating adds confidence. Use the hanging holes to mount them with hooks, then link more strings whenever you wish broader coverage.
- Length:25 ft
- Bulb Style:ST38 Edison-style
- Bulb Count:12+1 bulbs
- Color Temperature:2700K warm white
- Waterproof Rating:IPX4
- Dimmable:Not specified
- Additional Feature:Touch control operation
- Additional Feature:Hanging holes for mounting
- Additional Feature:Extreme-weather durable build
VIPAR Outdoor String Lights 100FT ST38 Bulbs
Should you want a long-lasting set of backyard lights that’s easy to install and safe to leave up year-round, VIPAR’s 100FT ST38 string lights are a strong fit. You get 52 shatterproof, vintage-style LED bulbs with a warm 2700K glow, plus two spares. The heavy-duty cord helps keep brightness steady, and the IPX5 waterproof design handles rain, snow, and wind. You can connect up to 15 strands for larger spaces, and the included hardware makes setup simple on patios, decks, pergolas, or porches. They’re dimmable, too, with a compatible dimmer.
- Length:100 ft
- Bulb Style:ST38 Edison-style
- Bulb Count:50+2 bulbs
- Color Temperature:2700K warm white
- Waterproof Rating:IPX5
- Dimmable:Dimmable
- Additional Feature:Connects 15 strands
- Additional Feature:Expansion hardware included
- Additional Feature:Universal E12 connectors
VIPAR Outdoor String Lights with Shatterproof Edison Bulbs
Should you want backyard lighting that blends vintage charm with everyday toughness, the VIPAR Outdoor String Lights are a strong fit. You get 25 feet of warm white 2700K glow from 11 ST38 LED bulbs, including one spare, all in shatterproof plastic shells. The heavy-duty cord and sealed sockets help these lights handle rain, snow, and wind with IPX5 protection. You can connect up to 78 strands, and the E12 base works with most dimmers. At just 5.5 watts, you’ll save energy while lighting patios, pergolas, porches, gardens, and events with steady, reliable brightness.
- Length:25 ft
- Bulb Style:ST38 Edison-style
- Bulb Count:10+1 bulbs
- Color Temperature:2700K warm white
- Waterproof Rating:IPX5
- Dimmable:Dimmable
- Additional Feature:Connects 78 strands
- Additional Feature:Low 5.5W power
- Additional Feature:Universal dimmer compatible
Factors to Consider When Choosing Outdoor Lights For Backyard
As you choose outdoor lights for your backyard, consider the light length, bulb style, and weather resistance initially. You’ll also want to check whether the lights offer dimming options and which power source works best for your setup. These factors help you pick lights that fit your space, style, and everyday use.
Light Length
Before you buy backyard lights, measure the space you want to cover and add about 10–20% extra length for slack and mounting points, since strand lengths commonly range from 25 to 200 feet depending on the area. Then check bulb spacing: 1.5-foot spacing gives you denser coverage, while 3- to 4-foot spacing lets you stretch a strand farther. Provided you desire multiple runs, pick linkable lengths so you can connect strands end to end without hunting for extra outlets. Also, calculate the distance from your nearest outdoor outlet and include any extension cord or power drop in that total. Choose lengths that fit straight runs, zigzags, or perimeter hangs, and leave room to reconfigure later for seasonal updates or added coverage.
Bulb Style
Pick a bulb style that matches the mood you want for your backyard: globe bulbs like G40s create a classic, rounded look, while ST38 or Edison-style bulbs add vintage filament charm. Choose larger bulbs in case you want bold, eye-catching light points, and pair them with wider spacing for a more dramatic feel. In the event you prefer a softer, twinkling effect, use smaller bulbs spaced more closely together. For a cozy, inviting atmosphere, go with warm LEDs around 2700K to 3000K. Should you need brighter, more modern lighting for tasks, cooler tones can work better. You should also check each bulb’s lumen output so the brightness fits your space and energy goals. Finally, choose LED bulbs with shatterproof plastic covers for safer, longer-lasting backyard use.
Weather Resistance
After choosing a bulb style that fits your backyard’s look, make sure the lights can handle the weather where you live. Check the IP rating initially: IP65 protects against dust and low-pressure water jets, while IPX4 or IPX5 can handle rain and splashing. You should also pick shatterproof or impact-resistant materials like PET or polycarbonate, which stand up to hail, windblown debris, and accidental bumps. For safety, use low-voltage systems or look for ETL or UL certification, plus sealed, weatherproof sockets that help prevent shorts and corrosion. Don’t overlook the wiring and connectors either; heavy-duty, coated parts resist UV damage, moisture, and temperature swings. Finally, match the fixture’s climate rating to your area’s freeze-thaw cycles, humidity, or salt air.
Dimming Options
As you want your backyard lights to work for both lively gatherings and quiet evenings, check the dimming range initially: some fixtures offer preset levels like 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%, while others give you stepless control for finer adjustments. Next, confirm how you’ll control them. A remote, inline dimmer, wall-dimmer compatibility, or app control can make daily use easier, and one controller might manage linked strands. Verify that the dimmer matches the voltage and LED type, since low-voltage systems and standard 120V setups don’t always share compatibility. Also, look for timers or auto-off settings for safer overnight lighting. Finally, make sure the LEDs are rated dimmable, then check wattage and total load limits so you don’t overload an external dimmer or connected strands.
Power Source
Once you’ve sorted out dimming, the next big choice is power source. Choose low-voltage 12–24V lights in case you want safer DIY installation and lower energy use; pick 120V line-voltage whenever you need longer runs without a transformer. Decide whether you want plug-in or hardwired fixtures. Plug-in lights are easy to install, move, and replace, while hardwired systems tie into your home circuits and timers, but usually need an electrician. For long layouts, watch for voltage drop and use thicker wire, multiple feeds, or enough transformer capacity to keep brightness steady. Always check for grounded plugs, overload and short-circuit protection, ETL or UL listing, and outdoor-rated adapters or transformers. In the event you want remote, dimmer, timer, or smart control, make sure the power setup supports it and stays weatherproof.
Connectable Design
Connectable string lights can stretch your layout without extra outlets, but you’ll want to check how many strands you can link end to end before you load up the circuit. Make sure the voltage and plug style match across every strand, whether you’re using low-voltage 24V sets or standard 120V options, so each connection stays safe and dependable. Check the manufacturer’s limits for wattage, amps, and total strand count, and follow any transformer or adapter guidance to avoid overheating and protect your warranty. Should you want one look across the whole run, confirm that remotes, dimmers, and timers control every linked section from a single controller. Also, choose weatherproof connectors and end caps so moisture can’t sneak into the seams outdoors.
Energy Efficiency
Whenever you’re choosing outdoor backyard lights, LED fixtures should be at the top of your list because they can use up to about 90% less energy than incandescent or halogen bulbs whilst still giving you similar brightness. You’ll save even more choosing low-voltage options, like 24V string lights, which cut power use and improve safety compared to standard 120V setups. Check lumens and wattage together so you get the brightness you want with the fewest watts possible. Dimmable lights help too, since you can drop output to 25% or any level you need during quiet evenings. Finally, pick weatherproof fixtures with long rated lifespans, often 30,000 hours or more, so you replace them less often and waste less energy and material over time.
Installation Ease
After you’ve narrowed things down based on efficiency, make installation just as vital so your backyard lights are easy to set up and maintain. Measure the full run length and spacing before you buy, so cords reach anchor points and outlets without strain or awkward gaps. Pick lights with plug-and-play connectors or end-to-end linkability to cut wiring hassles and limit extension cords. Look for fixtures with pre-attached hanging holes, clips, or mounting tabs, since they save time and skip extra hardware. Check whether the system is low-voltage or line-voltage, because that affects transformers, special wiring, and whether you’ll require an electrician. Finally, choose shatterproof bulbs and screw-in bases for simpler, safer replacement, especially when you’ll service the lights often.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Safely Install Backyard Lights Near Trees?
Choose low heat fixtures, keep wires clear of roots, use weatherproof mounts, and switch off the power before starting. If you are unsure about placement, hire a licensed electrician.
What Timer Options Work Best for Outdoor Backyard Lights?
A photocell paired with a programmable timer, or a smart outdoor timer, gives the most reliable control. The lights turn on at dusk and follow your schedule, so your backyard stays lit without daily adjustments.
Can Outdoor Lights Be Connected to Solar Power?
Yes, outdoor lights can run on solar power, and they can lower electricity use. You will need solar ready fixtures, a solar panel, and a battery. Pick bright, weather resistant lights, and your backyard can stay lit after sunset.
How Do I Reduce Glare From Backyard Lighting?
Aim backyard fixtures downward, choose shielded or frosted bulbs, dim overly bright lights, and position them out of direct view. Place fixtures with care and skip exposed bulbs to keep the light softer and easier on the eyes.
What Maintenance Keeps Outdoor Lights Working Longer?
You can extend the life of outdoor lights by cleaning the lenses, tightening wiring connections, inspecting weather seals, and changing bulbs before they fail. For instance, wiping the fixtures each month can help them stay brighter, reduce safety issues, and last several years longer.
