Solar pillar lighting is an increasingly common fixture in the landscaping industry. Growing concern for the environment, coupled with rising awareness of the cost-efficiency of solar lighting, are leading more and more consumers to seek out alternatives to lighting that’s powered by electricity. Below, we’ve rounded up our top options for solar pillar lights, along with information to help you make an informed purchasing decision.
Top Recommendation
The Kemeco Cast Aluminum Solar Post Light Fixture
This is one of our favorite modern pillar lights because it provides a balance of great design, efficient functionality, and affordability. It’s sized well to illuminate large gardens with dimensions of 6.1 by 6.1 by 17.8 inches.
In addition to solar power, this outdoor fixture includes rechargeable batteries. These batteries will work to power the LED bulb in the case of the solar power running out. However, the solar power should last for six to eight hours. It will automatically turn on at dusk and turn back off when the sun rises.
Upgrade Option
Smart Light Extra Large Solar Post Cap in Antique Brown
This pillar light has an ornate design and extra-large dimensions. It features four solar panels and the option to connect the light to electricity using wires. LED bulbs are used to light up this lamp and the entire structure is made from metal and glass.
With its intricate, visually interesting design, this post cap is recommended for use in your entryway and other prominent areas of your garden.
Value Option
Davinci Premium Solar LED Post Cap Light
The Davinci solar post cap is small and affordable. It makes use of warm white LED bulbs in a simple, traditional design. The body is constructed using diecast aluminum and tempered glass encases the LED bulb. This fixture has also earned an IP44 weatherproof distinction, which is a notable feature considering its low price.
Alternative Option
Creative Industries Solar Hand-Painted Iron Post Lantern
This outdoor lantern from Creative Industries has a singular design with antique touches. The aged-iron finish, seedy textured glass, and square structure make this lantern look vintage. However, it features a weather-resistant construction with solar and LED technology for energy-efficient lighting. It may not coordinate with everyone’s landscaping decor, but it’s an interesting product for those seeking a unique option.
Why Choose Solar?
The shift to solar power has been a marked one over the past several years. Solar power is preferred by many people for its lessened impact on the environment when compared to other sources of energy, such as gas, oil, and electricity.
When you need outdoor pillar lights, it’s the perfect opportunity to go solar. These light fixtures will be installed outside and will, therefore, receive plenty of sunlight (depending on the season and the climate of your home region, of course). You can take advantage of that sunlight by harnessing it during the day and using it to power your garden pillar lights at night.
Learning more about the science of solar power will help you understand how it can benefit your landscaping. Consider watching this video from Brown University about the functionality of solar cells.
What to Look For?
There are key features that set apart the best solar pillar lighting options from the rest. But, the right product for you will also depend on your home’s outdoor landscaping. So,when shopping for pillar light fixtures, keep the following factors in mind.
Dimensions
The dimensions of pillar mount lights are a crucial feature to consider. Making sure that a light fixture will match the dimensions of the pillar that it will be installed onto ensures that the light will fit seamlessly into your outdoor decor. Plus, stone pillar lights that are sized correctly for the posts or pillars that you’re looking to mount them onto will be simple to install. Sizing issues with light fixtures may make installation tricky.
Style and Design
The style and design of landscape pillar lighting is a major factor to consider because it affects the aesthetics of your yard or garden. We all want our homes to be welcoming and beautiful, and attractive garden landscaping may help you attain that goal. So, consider the style of your outdoor pillar lamps. Do you prefer a sleek, simple design, or one that’s eye-catching and ornate?
Outdoor light fixtures are usually made in neutral tones, most commonly black. But, you can find options, in brown or gray that may more closely coordinate with the existing decor in your garden.
A pillar mount spotlight also has a finish that may differ from product to product. Some post lights have textured finishes, while others are smooth. A textured finish provides a vintage aesthetic; a smooth finish is modern and streamlined.
Durability
Durability is a necessary consideration when shopping for outdoor pillar lights because weather can cause damage. Of course, climates can vary; some regions receive a high volume of extreme weather, while other regions generally only have mild weather. Either way, you may want to make sure that the fixture you select is able to withstand the elements for years to come.
Not all materials are weather-proof, and certain metals are sturdier than others. Aluminum is a common metal for outdoor lighting because it’s budget-friendly and lightweight. However, over time, aluminum with oxidize and corrode from rain, snow, and other weather. So, it may be a good choice for people on a budget who are open to the idea of replacing the fixtures in the future.
Copper and brass aren’t as affordable as aluminum, but are good choices for outdoor fixtures because of their sturdiness. These metals are harder than aluminum and are, therefore, highly resistant to all types of weather. Brass and copper solar lighting may be the right choice for long-term homeowners willing to invest in their landscaping.
Lifespan of the LED Light
Stone pillar solar lights today most commonly use LED bulbs. LED bulbs are more efficient than traditional incandescent light bulbs because they burn less energy to create the same amount of light (Source). The combination of solar power and LED bulbs maximizes the energy-efficiency of outdoor lighting.
To ensure that you get a high-quality LED bulb with your patio pillar lights, consider the bulb life. Most LED bulbs, including LED pillar lights, have a lifespan of 25,000 to 50,000 hours (to give you an idea of the energy-efficiency of regular bulbs in comparison to LED, average incandescent light bulbs have a life of about 1,000 to 2,000 hours) (Source
Best Outdoor Solar Pillar Lighting Reviews
Quick Take: OUR RECOMMENDATIONS FOR Outdoor Solar Pillar Lighting
Top RecommendationThe Kemeco Cast Aluminum Solar Post Light Fixture
Gives off a warm white LED glow that won’t strain your eyes.design.
Upgrade OptionSmart Light Extra Large Solar Post Cap in Antique Brown
The unique antique brown finish makes it stand out.
Value OptionDavinci Premium Solar LED Post Cap Light.
Compatible with posts measuring four or six inches.
Alternative OptionCreative Industries Solar Hand-Painted Iron Post Lantern
It has large dimensions to mark major entryways.
The Kemeco Cast Aluminum Solar Post Light Fixture
This solar lantern combines stylistic details with sleek, modern lines and may coordinate well with all different styles of decor. Additionally, it may enable homeowners with various landscaping setups to install the light easily by offering two use options. Users may put the lamp on a round post (measuring three inches across). Or, users can add the square mounting base, which measures 3.12 inches by 5.5 inches by 5.5 inches, to put the fixture onto square posts and surfaces.
LED light can be harsh, especially with less expensive fixtures – this post light gives off a warm white LED that’s both bright and easy on the eyes. The solar power technology included in this Kemeco fixture can last for six to eight hours, and it measures 6.1 by 6.1 by 17.8 inches. Considering its size, this lighting feature is exceptionally affordable. It may be a fitting choice for those seeking a high-power solar light without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Option to use either a square or round base
- Affordable price, especially considering its size
- Gives off a warm white LED glow that won’t strain your eyes
- Neutral, modern design with small style details
Cons
- May switch off early in the morning if sunlight is lacking during the day
- The round base must be secured to a three-inch post
- The rechargeable batteries only last for four to five hours
Creative Industries Solar Hand-Painted Iron Post Lantern
With a relatively large structure measuring 9 inches by 9 inches by 14.8 inches, this iron post lantern may make a good light fixture for major entrances in your patio or garden. Additionally, the seedy textured glass creates a soft glow that sets the mood for bonfires, cookouts, and other backyard gatherings. It uses cast aluminum in its vintage-inspired design, which may be a great choice for homes with antique decor. The aged iron finish gives this post lantern a singular visual effect that can help make your landscaping individual.
Depending on the amount of sunlight absorbed by the solar panels during the day, this lantern can last for as many as 10 hours. The main material used to construct this lamp is cast-aluminum, and it’s weather-resistant.
Pros
- It has large dimensions to mark major entryways
- Light can last for up to 10 hours at once
- Cast aluminum structure created a unique, vintage look
- The materials are weather-resistant
Cons
- The flat surface can collect snow and hinder the solar function
- May not coordinate with contemporary landscaping
- A post mount isn’t included with purchase of this lantern
Davinci Premium Solar LED Post Cap Light
The Davinci Post Cap Light is compatible in dimension with any posts measuring 4 inches or six inches. This makes it a versatile option for homeowners looking to put a cap light on multiple pillars. You may also choose to mount it on outdoor tables and other flat surfaces. It’s also entirely weather-proof, keeping it safe from damage in snow, sleep, and rain. So, it may make it a fitting choice for people living in harsh, unpredictable climates.
This post cap is an exceptionally affordable solar lighting option. It could be the right fit for people who are hesitating to switch over to solar energy due to financial reasons. However, this post cap is the smallest lighting option on this list, with dimensions of 6.9 inches by 6.9 inches by 6.3 inches. The small structure means that this fixture will emit less light than other available options, and you may need to use other lights in addition to these caps.
Pros
- Compatible with posts measuring four or six inches
- Can be mounted on virtually any flat outdoor surface
- Completely weatherproof
- Highly affordable
Cons
- It’s small, measuring just 6.9 inches by 6.9 inches by 6.3 inches
- It’s most easily installed onto wood; other post types may be difficult to mount the light onto
- The design is simple and lacks decorative details
Smart Light Extra Large Solar Post Cap in Antique Brown
Potentially ideal for homeowners with large pillars, this solar light fixture features an extra-large structure, measuring 18.9 inches by 12.5 inches by 12.4 inches. It also has a unique, elegant design. The antique brown finish is a departure from the usual black and gray, which may make your garden stand out from your neighbors in a positive way.
Despite its extra-large dimensions, this solar light post cap isn’t heavier than other options on the market. It weighs 5.75 pounds, which is just about average for the products in this category. In fact, the previously reviewed Creative Industries Solar Hand-Painted Iron Post Lantern is heavier than this fixture, weighing in at 7.7 pounds.
The large design of this fixture, in addition to its striking, ornate design, makes it a fitting choice to use at the entrance of your garage, gate, or other main area on your property. That being said, it is pricey compared to some other options on this list. It may not be the best choice for consumers with a limited budget.
Pros
- Has an extra-large design
- The unique antique brown finish makes it stand out
- Great for use in main entryways
- Weighs only 5.75 pounds
Cons
- Has a comparatively high price tag
- The brown finish may make weather damage more noticeable
Conclusion
Shopping around for solar column pillar lights will show you that there are more options to choose from than you may have initially thought. After sifting through the available options, It’s clear that the Kemeco Cast Aluminum Solar Light Post Fixture is the all-around winner. It’s one of the most affordable options available in its size range, with large enough dimensions to illuminate many garden and patio sizes. It enables you to either use a round base or a square one, opening up numerous opportunities for various landscaping setups. The solar power can last a standard 6 to 8 hours, or the majority of the night (if not all of it). Plus, the classic black style of this solar light fixture may coordinate well with many different types of decor. From style to functionality to affordability, this Kemeco solar light ticks every box.