We Tested 62 Outdoor Lights—These 10 Will Transform Your Space
Whether you’re aiming to illuminate your entryway, enhance your security system, or simply throw an outdoor birthday bash, lights can transform any outdoor space. However, finding the right ones is much easier said than done.
To determine which lights are worth purchasing, we evaluated 62 options based on ease of setup, special features, design, brightness, and durability. We also tapped two experts in the field: Amber Scott Freda, owner of Amber Freda Home & Garden Design, and Geoff Kohl, senior director of marketing at the Security Industry Association. Using their insights and our test results, we compiled a list of the top 10 outdoor lights.
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The lights feature dusk to dawn sensors and can be adjusted directionally.
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They are not motion activated.
Earning perfect scores for durability, brightness, features, design, and ease of setup, the Sansi Outdoor Integrated LED Flood Lights reign are our favorite outdoor lights. Unlike other units, this one was super easy to operate—you only have to flip a switch to power it on. With three LED lights on either side and a 320-degree angle, you can adjust the lights to face any direction. They effectively illuminated our entire backyard in testing, which measures 50 by 80 feet.
Although the lights lack a motion sensor, they do feature a daylight sensor, ensuring they turn off automatically when the sun rises. This makes them an ideal choice for lighting dark outdoor areas throughout the night. The lights boast an IP65 waterproof rating and remained in pristine condition after enduring rain and heavy winds. Even after six months of use, we’ve noticed no depreciation in quality or intensity. While the brightness is not adjustable, we found the 5000K color temperature lights (white with a tint of yellow) to be brighter than others we’ve tested.
Lumens: 6,000 | Dimensions: 4 by 11 by 6 inches | Power Source: Hardwired; must be installed by an electrician | Wattage: 45 | Voltage: 120 | Waterproof Rating: IP65
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![SANSI 45W Motion Sensor Outdoor Floodlight installed on the side of a house]()
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PHOTO: Wade Review / Patrick McGowan
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![The SANSI 45W Motion Sensor Outdoor Floodlight glowing at night on the side of a house]()
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PHOTO: Wade Review / Patrick McGowan
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![The SANSI 45W Motion Sensor Outdoor Floodlight after installation]()
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PHOTO: Wade Review / Patrick McGowan