Compared to flashlights and other plug-in lights, solar lanterns have a number of benefits. You may charge them for free by leaving them in the sun without having to worry about buying new batteries or running out of the proper size. Another excellent approach to illuminating dark areas in the house or yard is using solar lamps.
Because they don’t use fossil fuels to function and have long-lasting LED lights and sturdy materials, the majority of solar lanterns are also environmentally friendly. Since many of the versions are lightweight and portable, they are preferable to large lanterns and hefty handheld torches for use while camping and traveling.
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Although you’ll need to periodically charge it up, they are simple to sneak into an emergency pack or glovebox so you’ll have a backup in case of emergency.
There is a solar lantern for any need, whether you’re searching for a practical solar light for camping, something aesthetically pleasing for your patio or walking path, or something quick and practical for emergencies.
ROSHWEY Solar Lantern, 2 Pack Outdoor Lanterns Best overall
Sunnydaze Hanging Solar Light with LED Light and CandleBest expensive
Goal Zero Crush Light Solar Powered LanternBest price
LuminAID 2-in-1 Solar Camping Lantern and Phone Charger
Solar Camping Lantern Rechargeable USB
Solar Camping Lantern Rechargeable USB
6 Best solar lanterns to buy
Here are the top solar lights for every circumstance:
1. ROSHWEY Solar Lantern, 2 Pack Outdoor Lanterns
You might be drawn to Solight’s gorgeous SolarPuff lantern based on its stunning design. Due to its PET sailcloth construction, this self-inflating, fully collapsible light radiates a respectable 90 Lumens (on the highest setting) and is remarkably durable.
The solar garden lights can be turned on once and will turn on automatically, charging throughout the day and lighting up at night.
This outdoor solar lanterns complies with international lamp bulb waterproof standards, and the chip’s ABS plastic lid is waterproof and heat-resistant. Not only is the Solight pleasing to the sight. It comes in a variety of styles and colors, is dustproof, and is waterproof for 30 minutes up to two meters (6 feet).
Pros:
- Dustproof and waterproof
- Stunning design
- Durable PET sailcloth
Cons:
- Requires long charge time
- Cannot charge devices
2. Sunnydaze Hanging Solar Light with LED Light and Candle
This solar-powered hanging light measures 12 inches tall, 7 inches wide, with a diameter of 5 inches at the base. A 3.5 Lumen warm white LED candle is included in the packaging to light the space around it. An AA Ni-MH rechargeable battery powers this vintage sun lamp. It can be positioned outside on a patio, in a yard, a garden, or as route lighting.
The sturdy iron metal and glass Sunnydaze hanging solar light has an ancient appearance with a flameless candle that will create a warm atmosphere to any living area.
Pros:
- iron and glass made
- Durable hook for hanging
Cons:
- Battery hardly stay in place
3. Goal Zero Crush Light Solar Powered Lantern
Among experienced explorers, the Goal Zero Crush Light is well regarded and produces 60 lumens of light. The warm, comfortable glow of the Crush Light makes it a well-adored product. According to the majority of campers, the light is more than enough to illuminate your campsite while you whip up dinner.
This lantern, which weighs only 3.2 ounces, has an accordion-like design that enables it to fold up and fit in your pocket. Customers claim that the Crush Light can operate for at least 28 hours on its low setting, which is impressive given how small its solar panel is.
Today’s market leader in clean portable energy, Goal Zero works to build devices that are both cutting-edge and useful. The Crush Light’s solar panel can be rotated, tilted, and turned to follow the path of the sun. In contrast to many of its rivals, it also retains a respectable amount of power after being turned off. The Crush Lite is a deal at a price that is incredibly low considering what it offers.
This lantern would compete with the Luci Outdoors Pro if it had a battery indication and the ability to charge gadgets.
Pros:
- Collapsible, accordion-like built
- saves power after shutting off
- Cozy glow
- Pocket-size
Cons:
- No battery indicator
- Ineffective candle flicker mode
4. LuminAID 2-in-1 Solar Camping Lantern and Phone Charger
The Packlite is surprisingly compact when compressed, roughly the size of a small book, so it can be thrown in a backpack or hidden in an exterior flap despite its size. The Packlite’s most praised feature, meanwhile, is its USB port capability, which means your torch and watch won’t run out of juice too.
It is also waterproof and dustproof to a depth of one meter, making it perfect for canoe trips and camping in inclement weather. A battery indicator, an adjustable strap for easy hanging, and robust material made possible by heavy-duty TPU are further standout characteristics (thermoplastic polyurethane).
Aside from that, the history of this lantern is fascinating. This solar lantern was developed by design students in response to the catastrophic earthquake that devastated Haiti years ago, and the company continues to assist with humanitarian organizations. It bears a striking resemblance to the Solight Solarpuff’s roots.
Around eight years ago, The Packlite won all five offers on ABC’s Star Tank, and soon received its first investment from billionaire Mark Cuban. At a $50 asking price, it might need to try a little harder to win over Luci Pro Outdoor 2.0 users.
Pros:
- Durable
- Powerful light
- 100% PVC-free material
Cons:
- Slightly bulky
- Pricey
5. BioLite Sunlight Solar Powered Lantern
A lovely solar lantern with a distinctive shape, the Biolite Sunlight is roughly the size of an ice cream sandwich. You may carry it around in your pocket or delight your children by setting the lantern light to “party mode,” which gradually cycles through various colors.
With a convenient, built-in analog sundial located on one corner of the solar panel, the Biolite Sunlight really shines while camping. Depending on where the sun is, you can adjust the unit’s flatness or angle using the kickstand.
Sunlite has angered some people who feel that its solar charging capabilities are insufficient, despite earning positive reviews from its devoted followers. Users have expressed disappointment that the product breaks after only a few uses and is not waterproof like other items on this list.
The Sunlite, however, is a unique and attractive tool that might be useful to you in the outdoors. It deserves its position in the sun.
Pros:
- Portable
- Unique kickstand and integrated sundial
- Several color modes
Cons:
- Cannot charge devices
- Issues with battery
6. Solar Camping Lantern Rechargeable USB
You don’t need to worry about replacing batteries regularly with these solar rechargeable lanterns because they include a 2000mAh lithium battery that is both secure and beneficial to the environment. With 500 lumens of ultra-bright light, it is 50% brighter than a typical lantern. You also get 360-degree illumination from it.
The lantern can be folded, used as a flashlight, or hung on a wall to serve as a lamp. These solar lights may be charged by a USB connector or with solar electricity. These solar lamps can tolerate inclement weather and are water-resistant. Moreover, the polycarbonate in it is heat-, heat- and abrasion-resistant.
You can transport these lanterns anyplace you choose because of their folding steering wheel and design. While going camping with friends, you may use them as flashlights, and you can even place them on the wall for family dinners. If your lantern ever malfunctions, the manufacturer provides a 12-month warranty and after-sales service.
Pros:
- Compact
- easy to carry
Cons:
- Weak batteries
How does a solar lantern work?
A few years ago, it was almost impossible to harness solar energy. Today, however, we see residences with solar-powered lamps and rooftops with solar panels. The most important solar cell component is where it all begins, I suppose. Direct sunlight is converted into electric current by the solar cell. It is made up of different crystalline silicon layers and substances that produce positively and negatively charged regions and electrons.
When sunlight rays directly hit a solar cell, the energy is transferred into the positively charged regions by passing through negatively charged electrons. The primary current of power is then transmitted through wires in the solar panel and into the battery by the positively charged portions.
The electricity for lanterns is kept in the battery until it is required. As the sun shines on the solar panel and turns light into power, the battery charges.
The solar cells stop converting sunlight at night. Normally, a photoreceptor recognizes darkness and activates the light. The cycle is continued as the charged battery powers the solar light all night long.
There may not be enough solar energy available during the winter to sufficiently charge the battery, which would reduce the number of charging hours.
What to consider when choosing a solar lantern?
Since there are so many applications for solar lanterns, it was difficult for us to choose just a few. In the end, we focused mostly on the product’s use and adaptability, as well as its battery life, charging options, luminance, and extra features.
Also, we devoted close attention to outdoor lights’ ability to withstand adverse weather, including rain, wind, cold, and other elements.
The organization’s mission is another issue that demands our consideration. Rarely does a business exist that cares about the welfare of its clients and supports an honorable purpose. The LuminAid solar inflatable lanterns do more than just provide lights for the outdoors.
We can’t deny the fact that some people just want something beautiful to look at, and that’s alright, even though practicality was a key component of our research. We thought about how indoor and outdoor solar lanterns may enhance your environment because they are popular focal points for many homes.
Are there alternative solar lanterns worth considering?
Several solar lanterns sold online didn’t meet our requirements. It should come as no surprise that the sole option we’ve listed is also produced by Mpowerd, a B-certified company that supports superior solar energy.
In conclusion
Solar lanterns are one of the greatest solutions for lighting up your home when it comes to conserving energy and cutting costs. Solar lanterns can be used to light up your home or yard, or you can travel with them or use them when camping. They can also be used to make a space more attractive and colorful.
