If you love spending evenings in your backyard or garden, you know how much difference a good set of solar string lights can make. They add that soft, cozy glow that instantly makes any space feel welcoming. But finding durable solar lights that actually last more than a few weeks can be tricky, especially with so many cheap, short-lived options online. Recently, I came across a discussion where people were comparing the best solar string lights for backyard setups, and two names kept coming up again and again:
Both have thousands of reviews and solid reputations. So, if you’re torn between the two, here’s a closer look at what makes each one worth considering.
🌿 1. Brightown 100FT Solar String Lights Outdoor Waterproof
These lights are designed for those who want that warm, decorative look—the kind that transforms a simple patio or garden corner into a relaxing evening retreat.
Key Features:
- Length: 100 feet of flexible cable, perfect for wrapping around fences, trees, pergolas, or balconies.
- Bulbs: Shatterproof and dimmable LED bulbs that give off a soft warm white tone.
- Solar Powered: Comes with a large solar panel that charges efficiently even on cloudy days.
- Waterproof Rating: IP65meaning it can handle rain and moderate weather without issue.
- Timer & Dimming Options: You can set brightness levels and auto on/off times.
What people love most about the Brightown lights is the ambiance. They’re not blindingly bright; instead, they create that cozy café-style glow perfect for evening dinners or quiet time outdoors.
Another big plus is durability. Many users on forums and review sites like Better Homes & Gardens mention that these lights last much longer than cheaper alternatives. The shatterproof bulbs can handle bumps or small impacts, and the cable is heavy-duty enough to withstand outdoor conditions year-round.
Installation is simple too—just stick the solar panel into the ground or mount it on a wall where it can get direct sunlight. Once fully charged, the lights usually last 8–10 hours through the night.
If you’re going for aesthetics, warmth, and reliability, Brightown’s 100FT string lights are an excellent pick.
💡 2. Ofuray OF-9800W Solar Street Lights Outdoor
While Brightown focuses on warm ambiance, the Ofuray OF-9800W is built for brightness and performance. It’s not exactly a “string light,” but many people in garden and backyard communities use it to light up larger areas like driveways, parking spots, or open lawns.
Key Features:
- Brightness: Massive 750,000 lumens ideal if you want clear visibility across your backyard or front yard.
- Battery Capacity: High-capacity lithium battery that can run up to 12 hours on a full charge.
- Smart Motion Sensor: Automatically brightens when it detects movement and dims when idle to save power.
- Remote Control: Lets you adjust brightness modes and set timers.
- Durability: Built with aluminum housing, completely weatherproof (IP67 rated).
The Ofuray model is more like a solar floodlight system, but its coverage and reliability make it perfect for people who want strong illumination without wiring or electricity costs.
In forum discussions and Reddit threads, users mentioned installing this light in larger yards or along fences, and it performed impressively even during rainy weeks.It’s also a great option if you live in an area with frequent power outages, since it stores enough charge for multiple nights. The design is modern and sleek, giving your outdoor space a clean, high-tech look.So, while it might be more “functional” than decorative, the Ofuray OF-9800W offers unmatched brightness and security lighting with zero maintenance.
⚖️ Which One Should You Choose?
It depends on your priorities:
- ✅ For cozy backyard vibes: Go with Brightown 100FT Solar String Lights. They’re perfect for patios, pergolas, and garden dinners. You’ll love the warm glow and stylish setup.
- 💪 For wide-area coverage and brightness: Choose Ofuray OF-9800W Solar Street Lights. Ideal if you need solid lighting for driveways, large lawns, or security.
If you’re like me and want a balance of both, you could even combine them, use Brightown lights for the decorative touch and Ofuray for powerful illumination around the corners or entry points. Solar lighting technology has come a long way, and with both these options, you’ll save energy, skip the wiring mess, and enjoy reliable lighting all year round.
Final Thoughts
When setting up your backyard, lighting can completely change the atmosphere. The right solar lights not only highlight your plants and seating area but also make your evenings more enjoyable.
Whether you prefer the warm, romantic glow of the Brightown lights or the powerful coverage of the Ofuray system, you can’t really go wrongboth are top choices backed by real users and strong reviews.
