RS Recommends: The Best Backyard String Lights for Summer
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
Lighting is one of the first things we notice when we enter a space. It creates ambiance and mood, two things that can make or break our experience. And even when it comes to outdoor lighting, nothing feels more inviting than sitting under string lights in the summertime. It’s a look often used by beloved restaurants, bars, and hotels. The good news is that it’s pretty easy to replicate this same look at home. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best backyard string lights you can buy today.
More from Rolling Stone
RS Recommends: One $40 Cable Can Charge All Your Devices at Once
UFC 276 Live Stream: How to Watch Adesanya vs. Cannonier Online
WWE Money in the Bank Live Stream: How to Watch the Ladder Matches Online
Buying Guide: The Best Backyard String Lights
There are a few key things to keep in mind when you’re selecting backyard string lights.
Measurements: The first thing to note is that you’ll encounter a large variety of string light lengths. While you’re shopping, some packages may include 40 feet of string lights, while others may include over 100 feet of lights. Often, manufacturers will make their lights available in a variety of sizes. So if you fall in love with a set of lights that are too short or too long, you’re probably not out of luck. You just want to make sure (before you check out) that you’ve selected the size that best fits the needs of your space. You’re the expert on your own backyard, so if you’re not sure how many feet of lights you’ll need, use a tape measure to find out.
Durability: It’s also essential that your backyard lights are durable. Of course, the string lights you choose will need to be made for the outdoors. But beyond that, you want to opt for lights that won’t need to be replaced every summer. Longevity is key. The best way to assess longevity is to choose commercial-grade options when possible, opt for string lights with shatterproof bulbs, and read about how other customers have fared with their purchases.
Style and Design: Finally, style is just as important as size and durability. You want lights that fit your aesthetic and your vision for your space. These days, the best backyard string lights come in so many different styles. There’s truly something for everyone, and we kept that in mind when making the selections for this list.
The Best Backyard String Lights
Whether you’re hanging string lights for outdoor dinners or a party, here are the best backyard string lights worth your money.
1. Svater Outdoor String Lights
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
There are so many reasons to love these outdoor string lights. For starters, the bulbs have a vintage design that helps create a warm, whimsical ambiance. They’ll instantly remind you of your favorite cafes. What’s even better, though, is that these string lights are commercial grade. Shatterproof, sunproof, waterproof, snowproof, and windproof, these lights are built to withstand the elements and maintain their quality over long periods of use. These string lights come in bundles of either 50 feet or 105 feet in length.
Amazon
Buy: Svater Outdoor String Lights
2. HBN Outdoor String Lights
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
For barbeques, birthdays, and everything in between, nothing says celebration quite like these color-changing backyard lights. They can be set to the standard warm white or any one of the seven different colors. There is also a multi-color option. Setting your preferred color is easy, thanks to the small, user-friendly remote that’s included with the lights. These string lights are commercial grade and ready for the outdoors. They’re sold in three different sizes: 25, 48, or 50 feet.
Amazon
Buy: HBN Outdoor String Lights
3. Solatec Solar String Lights
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
If having an energy-efficient home is important to you, then you’ll want to consider these solar-powered LED string lights. Not only are they more sustainable, but they can turn any outdoor space into a cozy oasis with the bulb’s bauble design. They’re shatterproof, waterproof, and designed to last for years to come. These string lights are sold in two packs, 40 feet each.
Amazon
Buy: Solatec Solar String Lights
4. Sunthin Outdoor String Lights
If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission.
While some string lights are great for special occasions — like decorating for an outdoor wedding — others are excellent for everyday use. These backyard string lights check all the boxes thanks to their solid design and long-lasting bulbs. These strong lights are shatterproof, waterproof, windproof, and snowproof. We also love them because they’re made with efficient (and dimmable) LED bulbs. These backyard string lights come in three different lengths: 27, 48, or 97 feet.
Amazon
Buy: Sunthin Outdoor String Lights
Best of Rolling Stone
