9 Best Landscape Lighting You Should Try

Landscape lighting allows you to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property. You can use these lights to highlight the property’s features and offer better safety and security. Illuminate steps and pathways or outdoor seating and dining areas for maximum comfort for guests.

Selecting the landscape lighting is easy with a little know-how and help. So, here, you’ll find out landscape lighting uses, the different types of lighting, and the best landscape lighting to buy.

Part 1: What Is Landscape Lighting?

Landscape lighting, also known as garden lighting, are lighting systems used to illuminate an outdoor space. This type of lighting is usually used in gardens, driveways, and other outdoor spaces for security, safety, enhancement of property aesthetics, and sometimes for social events and recreation. 

The Types of Landscape Lighting

There are different types of landscape path lighting. This includes the following;

• Pathway Lights

Pathway lights are usually used in walkways to enhance the landscape. These types of landscape lights make it easier to navigate the exterior of the property, and they can also help increase security around the home.

• Spotlights

Spotlights are the type of landscape lighting used to illuminate a specific spot in an outdoor space. You can use them to create a focal point or establish a beautiful light display at night.

• Strip Lights

Strip lights are flat flexible circuits with multiple LEDs mounted on them. Unlike the previously mentioned landscape lightings, strip lights tend to produce more focused and sharper beams of light that can illuminate a space efficiently.

• Mounted Lights

Mounted lights are usually installed on the wall surface. These types of landscape lights can be used for ambient, accent, and task lighting.

Part 2: What are the Best Landscape Lighting Brands?

Let’s explore a few of the best brands for landscape lighting.

eufy

eufy is a renowned industry leader and offers a competitive range of smart LED lights for indoor and outdoor areas that can illuminate your space with up to 3x brightness than regular lights.

Kichler

Another impressive landscape light brand has to be Kichler. Kichler is an industry leader and has a wide selection of quality products to choose from. They specialize in outdoor landscape lighting to improve the safety of your home.

Rayolon

A standout brand for landscape lighting has to be Rayolon. Rayolon makes solar in ground lights that can be used as both a decorative and practical feature for the home. They have an impressive array of products to choose from that will improve the look and safety of your home.

Whether you’re looking for landscape path lighting or outdoor security lights, buying from a trustworthy brand can be crucial. The above are just a few of the best landscape lighting brands to consider but there are many more that offer reliability and value for money.

Part 3: Top 9 Picks for the Best Landscape Lighting in 2024

Now that you have an idea of the brands with the best landscape lighting, let’s dive into our list to find out which of their products you can use to illuminate your space.

1. Best Pathway Lighting - eufy Outdoor Pathway Lights

One of the most outstanding landscape lightings in the market right now is the eufy Outdoor Pathway Light.

What makes this landscape light a great choice is its advanced features and brightness. It boasts a vibrant RGBWW technology that combines with warm and cool white LEDs to illuminate up to 350 lumens of brightness that makes your pathway more visible at night.

Also, this landscape light is perfect for creating a perfect ambience in your pathway for any occasion. Thanks to its smart app that allows you to choose from 80 preset themes to design your lighting pattern, colors, and design in a way that is tailored to different celebrations and moods.

Another excellent feature this light possesses is its ability to sync with the eufy cameras. This feature allow you to emit a specific light theme in your pathway when people are detected, and you can use it to highlight welcoming and warning messages to enhance safety.  

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Key Features:

• Enhances your pathway with high-quality colors that are perfect for everyday ambience and special occasions.
• It supports integration with various home assistants, including Alexa and Google Assistant and syncs with music.
• It’s weatherproof with IP65 rating.
• Boasts an incredible lifespan over 50,000 hours.

Pros:

• Excellent illumination for color sharpness.
• Easy DIY installation.
• Great durability for long-term use.

Cons:

• It can be a bitcostly to purchase.

2. Best Smart Lighting - eufy Outdoor Spotlight

One of the best outdoor landscape lighting options has to be the eufy Outdoor Spotlights. These are fantastic smart lights that also come with RGBWW technology and combine white LEDs with vibrant RGB color to illuminate up to 500 lumens of brightness, enabling you to enhance your outdoor space with incredible colors that make your property stand out.

The eufy Outdoor Spotlights can be integrated with eufy security cameras to trigger messages when motion is detected. This is very helpful, especially when you’re celebrating an occasion, and you want to display welcoming messages to them.  It is also helpful for enhancing safety and security of your property by displaying warning messages.

In addition, this landscape lighting allows you to choose from 80 preset themes as well as customize patterns and brightness, allowing you to have full control over your light displays.

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Key Features:

• Enhances the natural beauty of your outdoor space with unique colors that create the perfect ambience.
• Its high-transparency glass cover and built-in diffuser make it perfect for highlighting outdoor plants, gardens, and sculptures.
• 50,000 hours of runtime
• Compatible with smart home systems (Google and Alexa)

Pros:

• Easy integration with eufy cameras.
• Excellent durability for longevity.
• Hassle free setup

Cons:

• It’s quite expensive when compared to other competitors.

3. Best Budget Lighting  - Linkind Solar Pathyway Light

If you’re on a budget, the Linkind Solar Pathway Light SP3 is a great choice. This landscape lighting can enhance your outdoor spaces with both functionality and aesthetic appeal, and it’s very viable for long-term use.

The unique Venus' circular reflection light pattern of this light adds a touch of elegance to any landscape, and it comes in variable height options, allowing for customization based on terrain or design preferences.

With no wiring required and easy installation, these lights transform outdoor areas into enchanting nighttime retreats, all while being energy-efficient and cost-effective.

The Linkind Solar Pathway Light SP3 can emit up to 300 lumen of brightness, and it supports different light modes, including the low light mode, highlight mode, and gradual breathing mode. The low light mode is perfect for creating a cozy ambiance, while the high light mode allows you to illuminate your space with intensified brightness for security and safety, and the gradual breathing mode enables you to set the light to pulsate gently.

It also features an automatic on/off sensor that automatically switches on the light when they sense dusk and then turns off when dawn approaches.

Key Features:

• Adjustable height options.
• Illuminate G3 warm white color.
• IP54 waterproof rating.
• Eco-friendly construction

Pros:

• Itsmodern design enhances the aesthetic of your outdoor space.
• The adjustableheight offers greater convenience.
• Weatherproof to suit any climate.

Cons:

• The lights may be too bright for certain areas
• The ground stakes can be flimsy at times

4. Best In-Ground Lights - Rayolon Solar Ground Lights

The Rayolon Solar Ground Lights are reliable and affordable. These in-ground lights are simple but effective and incredibly powerful. You can use them for pathways or gardens to highlight certain features or walkways.

These flush-mount lights seamlessly integrate into lawns, pathways, and garden beds, creating a magical ambiance without cluttering the landscape. Their discreet design during the day transforms into a stunning display of light at night, outlining walkways and highlighting garden features.

Also, the waterproof design ensures reliability in all weather conditions, making them a worry-free addition to any landscape. And they support automatic on/off sensor that automatically turn them on and off when the lights sense daylight and nightlight. These lights can also work in a variety of weather settings and climates, including rain, wind, sleet, and snow.

Key Features:

• Solar powered with push button control
• Waterproof to withstand different climates
• Automatic lighting for convenience
• Strong warm-white LEDs for maximum coverage
• Modern design to enhance aesthetic appeal 

Pros:

• Great brightness levels
• Built-in rechargeable battery for convenience
• Constructed from stainless steel and ABS 

Cons:

• Lights can take a while to charge if not in direct sunlight
• Can be too bright for certain areas of the property

5. The Best Light with Motion Sensor - Leon Lite LED Security Lights

The best landscape lighting with a motion sensor has to be the Leon Lite LED security lights.

The Leon Lite security light comes with a built-in motion sensor that can be adjusted up to 69 feets and at an angle of 180-degree angle. This light is perfect for both homes and commercial properties.

Also, the Leon Lote LED Security lights is available in different color temperatures, including 3000k warm white and 5000k daylight.  And it has three different operation modes - the ON-Time mode, Auto mode, and DUSK to DAWN.

The ON-TIME mode allows you to manually control the light according to your preference, while the Auto mode sets the light to automatically detect motion, and the DUSK to DAWN mode allows the light to turn on at dawn and turn off at dusk.

what makes Leon Lite stand out for us is its bright, wide-coverage illumination ensures that no corner of your property is left in the dark, creating a safer environment for family and guests alike

Key Features:

• Comes with an IP65 waterproof rating
• Auto and manual operation modes
• Intense lumens to highlight areas perfectly
• 20W LED motion lights
• Long-range detection distance

Pros:

• Energy and cost-effective for long-term use
• Dual-head security light covers greater distances
• 180-degree detection angle

Cons:

• The junction box isn’t supplied with the light
• Tricky installation

6. The Best Mounted Light - Orein Motion Sensor Light

The Orein Motion Sensor Outdoor LED Mounted Light is a top contender when it comes to the best mounted light landscape lighting.

The Orein Motion Sensor Outdoor LED Mounted Light can deliver incredible brightness up to 1600 lumens. But what makes it stand out for us is its adjustable motion sensor that can detect movement at up to 450°, allowing you to customize the light in any direction without stress.

And  it also supports different lightning modes, such as the manual override mode, security mode, and dimmable dusk to dawn mode.

Key Features:

• RoHS certified
• IP65 waterproof rating
• UV resistant
• Excellent detection coverage range
• Dimmable features for better customization

Pros:

• Manual and auto settings are available
• Adjustable light temperatures
• Durable for long-term use

Cons:

• Can be tricky to install
• Must be hardwired

7. Best Low Voltage Light  - LITOM Solar Landscape Lighting

LITOM 12 LEDs Solar spotlights are the best low voltage landscape lighting available today. These lights not only look good but are incredibly versatile. The lights are bright, simple to use, and can be easily installed.

This landscape lighting is perfect for highlighting trees, shrubs, or architectural features, and it offers the flexibility to adjust the lighting angle, allowing you to create dramatic shadows or soft washes of light.

Also, the solar-powered design means no ongoing electricity costs, making them an eco-friendly choice.

Key Features:

• Quality-made lights
• 2 brightness levels
• Simple installation for your convenience
• Comes with an IP67 waterproof rating
• Durable cool white LEDs

Pros:

• Affordable price for the lights
• Solar powered so you can save money
• Weatherproof for winter and summer

Cons:

• Limited ground coverage
• The ground stake can be flimsy

8. Best LED Color Changing Light  - NATPOW Garden Lights

The NATPOW Garden Lights are among the best landscaping systems available today. The best LED color changing landscape lights should offer reliability and the NATPOW offers that in abundance. The ground lights are easy to install and can be controlled via Bluetooth. This allows you to get better control over your light displays.

There is a simple timer function and the beam angle allows for maximum exposure. The heads of the lights are fully adjustable (to a 270° angle) and can easily light your pathways, pools, garages, walkways, and more. You can also use the NATPOW lights for decoration purposes.

Key Features:

• RGB technology
• Control via Bluetooth
• Timer function
• IP65 waterproof rating
• 6 internal lamps for greater coverage

Pros:

• Comes with 12 light modes
• 16 million color options to choose from
• Customizable to use for any occasion

Cons:

• You must scan a QR code to download the app
• Must be positioned close to a power source

9. Best Solar Powered Light - InnoGear Solar Lights

The InnoGear Solar Lights for Outside are versatile landscape lighting designed to enhance garden, yard, and pathway aesthetics.

With their solar-powered design, these lights harness sunlight during the day to provide efficient nighttime lighting without the need for wiring or electricity costs. And they feature an auto on/off function, allowing you to conveniently illuminate your outdoor spaces as soon as darkness falls. They can last for six hours on the high mode setting and twelve on the low mode setting.

Key Features:

• RoHS and FCC-certified
• Weatherproof
• Multicolor LEDs with crystal design
• Wall mountable and in-ground installation
• Constructed with ABS plastic and silicon

Pros:

• Heat and waterproof
• Dimmable features
• Versatile solar panel for quick charge-up time

Cons:

• Likely to stop working once submerged in water
• Can be a little flimsy

Part 4: Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Landscape Light

Finding the right landscape light can be a challenge as there are lots of types, styles, and designs to choose from. It’s daunting but not as impossible as it sounds. So, here are a few key features to consider when choosing the best landscape lighting.

Brightness

One of the most important features to consider when choosing landscape lighting is the brightness.  Will the light’s brightness glow up your space ? You need to check how far the light illuminated by the landscape light bulb can reach when they are brighter?  

Power Source

There are several power source options including battery-powered, electrical, and solar power. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s wise to think about what would work best for your home. For instance, if you have no outside power source or can’t extend a cord into the home, then that option can be ruled out.

Batteries can be great but they need to be changed every few weeks. Solar power can be the most popular option, but weather and conditions can impact their effectiveness.

Solar Vs. Corded Options

Solar lights will typically come with a solar panel, either attached to the light or within the light panel itself. These can be ideal for larger areas or if you want to light a specific space. Corded lights are attached together and tend to be a more suitable choice for walkways and smaller areas.

Durability

Durability is one of the most overlooked and underrated elements of landscape lighting today. It is, however, a crucial aspect that should be taken very seriously. You want a product that has a robust build that can withstand any weather condition, and it must be well-designed so that they are easy to maintain.

Smart Capabilities

While you might not initially think about it, smart capabilities can be crucial for those looking for a more simplified life. You have to see what smart capabilities it has and whether or not it’ll work with your devices.

Part 5: How to Plan Landscape Lighting Design

Landscape lighting is often the simplest way to enhance a property without hefty renovation costs or investment. But before you proceed to start setting up landscape lights within your property, you need to have a plan.

In this part, we’ve explained the best tips you can follow to plan your landscape light design easily.

• Decide The Purpose

Firstly, you need to think about the space you have and its overall functions. You must think of the areas that need the most attention and the type of lighting they’ll need.

Of course, the purpose of the area will also determine the type of lighting you’ll need to buy. For example, spot lights can be more suited when you want to highlight a tree or fencing. On the other hand, flood lights can be better for security purposes.

• Map out the Idea or Layout for the lights

This can be tricky, but it’s important to have an idea or theme for your landscape lights mapped out. The map will serve as a guide to help you place lights in the right spots, enabling you to highlight important features, such as trees, pathways, gardens, and more within your property.

You can look at ideas online or browse the local neighborhood to see if any ideas inspire your creativity. Just ensure to be practical in the layout so that it’s effective for the home in the long term.

• Highlight Architectural Features

Don’t make the mistake of ignoring your property’s architectural features when designing a landscape light.  You need to highlight the property in a way that looks very cohesive while providing an overall illumination. For example, you can fit light bulbs with 12-degree beam spreads and put them at the corners of your house and use a soft washer to fill in the space between the focused beam.

• Illuminate Trees and Plants

Trees and plants can significantly add to the beauty of your landscape lighting design.

When lighting up trees less than 20 ft tall, use two 20-watt uplights. But for larger trees, we recommend using up to five 35-50 watts lights each. This helps to create a dramatic visual effect that looks very stunning.  However, for plants, use garden lights to create an illumination that makes their colors pop.

Installation Tips: How to Install a Landscape Light Perfectly

Installing landscape lights can be pain-free and pretty easy to do. So, here are a few tips to help you install new lighting.

• Prepare the Installation Site

Safety comes first – without a doubt – and it must be your first priority when it comes to installing your new lights. You must switch off any power source (if you need to hardwire the lights). After that, you must clear the site from debris, cables, hazards, and other obstacles.

• Gather the Necessary Tools

If your lights come with a lighting kit, use them! If not, you’ll need to gather up the necessary tools, such as a hammer, drill, screwdriver, and pliers.

• Have a Dry Run

Mark out where you want to place the lights and where cables and other such things will go. This gives you a good indication of how the lights will look before you install them.

• Test the Lights

Test the lights before you install them. This can be incredibly useful, especially if there are faults with the lights. You don’t have to wait until they’re installed to see if they work.

Conclusion

Landscape lighting gives you the best way to enhance the outdoor areas of your home with little effort and ease. You can invest as much (or as little) as you want and can highlight the best areas of your home. The best landscape lights can be cost-effective, reliable, and last a lifetime with the right care and installation.

FAQs

Is Professional Landscape Lighting Worth it?

Professional landscape lighting is well worth the investment. It is the best and most effective way to invest in your property without making wholesale changes.

What’s the expense of hiring someone to install lights?

Exact costs can be determined by several factors. For instance, extensive work (that has to fit new lighting systems) may cost anything from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. Of course, most landscape lights can be installed by you – for free.

How many watts do you need for Landscape lighting?

40 watts can be an ideal choice for outdoor lighting. It can be sufficient to illuminate walkways, flower beds, and more. Of course, outdoor security lights can range around 20 watts.

What is the best color for Landscape Lights?

Ultimately, this comes down to the type of atmosphere you want to create. For example, neutral white lights (with a Kelvin range of 3500-4100K) can illuminate signs, doorways, and walkways. On the other hand, daylight (with a range of 5000K) is best suited for security lights. In contrast, soft and white lights (2500-3000K) work best for outdoor dining and seating areas.

The best color for landscape lights comes down to the area you wish to illuminate.

Are Expensive Landscape Lights Worth It?

Yes and no. In truth, expensive landscape lights are worth buying when they are made with high-quality materials and are durable. There’s no point in buying expensive lights that look good but have poor durability.