Outdoor smart lights have revolutionized the way we illuminate and secure our homes, blending convenience, efficiency, and style into one seamless package. Whether you’re enhancing curb appeal, boosting safety, or creating an inviting ambiance, choosing the best outdoor smart lights is crucial to achieving your goals.
With a myriad of options on the market, prioritizing quality, durability, and value ensures you invest in a solution that stands the test of time and weather. Smart lighting systems offer advanced features like remote control, automation, and energy savings, making them a smart choice for modern homeowners.
In this review, we’ll explore top contenders to help you make an informed decision, ensuring your outdoor space is both functional and visually striking.
1. Govee Smart Outdoor String Lights H7021
Product Review: *”I’m sorta a light freak. So when I installed these puppies, it was like I was an 8-year-old on Christmas day.”*
The lights deliver impressive brightness, making them stand out even among neighbors’ deck and under-deck lighting. While the product listing could clarify the 30-light count over 96 feet (one light every 3 feet, with 6 feet of cord spacing), the customization options are outstanding.
Users can select any color for each individual light, save designs, and choose from pre-installed modes like twinkling, holiday themes (Christmas, Halloween), dance parties, and music reactivity. The app is user-friendly, allowing for easy setup and scheduling with up to four on/off times daily (e.g., 7 PM to 7 AM). Installation is simple for gutter attachment, though the lights can also be secured elsewhere with a long screw to adjust sagging.
A minor note: the power adapter isn’t waterproof, but a simple fix like duct-taping a lunch bag over it solves the issue. Priced at $69 for two 96-foot strings (30 lights each), the product offers exceptional value for vibrant, customizable outdoor lighting. The reviewer highlights this as one of their favorite purchases, praising the brightness, versatility, and creative control the lights provide.
While the light spacing could be clearer upfront, the ease of use, app features, and stunning visual effects make it a standout choice for lighting enthusiasts.
Why We Choose
- Vibrant multicolor LED lighting options
- Waterproof and shatterproof for outdoor durability
- App and Alexa control for convenience
- Energy-efficient with 20,000-hour lifespan
- Modern design perfect for balconies and backyards
2. Govee Smart Outdoor String Lights H7015
That’s why these lights are a standout choice for outdoor lighting. Purchased in 2021, they have proven their durability, still performing flawlessly year after year. Customers appreciate the wide variety of color options available through the app, allowing for customizable ambiance to suit any occasion. The lights are easy to install, making them a hassle-free addition to any outdoor space, such as a backyard canopy.
The lights consistently draw compliments from guests, highlighting their aesthetic appeal and ability to enhance outdoor gatherings. The option to connect additional lights provides flexibility for those looking to expand their setup, though many users find the current configuration more than sufficient. The ability to switch between vibrant colors and simple white light adds versatility, catering to different moods and events.
Designed for both functionality and style, these lights have become a reliable favorite for seasonal use. Their long-lasting performance and user-friendly features make them a practical investment for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor decor. The positive feedback from users underscores their satisfaction with the product’s quality and design.
Whether for everyday use or special occasions, these lights deliver on both form and function.
Why We Choose
- IP65 waterproof for durable outdoor use
- Multicolor LED lights with modern style
- App control for easy customization
- Shatter-resistant bulbs for long-lasting performance
- Perfect for weddings, Christmas, and beach themes
3. Govee Smart Outdoor String Lights 2
I’m going to share my experience with the Govee Smart Outdoor String Lights, which I installed on my back patio using a separate hanging kit. The lights were easy to attach with zip ties thanks to the built-in loops, ensuring a sag-free setup that looks neat. The warm white LEDs provide ideal brightness, and the color-changing feature works flawlessly with both the Govee app and Alexa voice commands.
The dimming function adds a nice touch for creating ambiance, especially when relaxing in the hot tub at night. The lights offer 47 scene modes, though I’ve primarily used voice control for simplicity. Connectivity has been reliable, and the weather resistance is impressive—despite exposure to dew under my eaves, they’ve had no issues.
The 144ft length was more than I needed, with three sections provided; I only used two. It would be great if Govee sold the controller separately to repurpose the unused section. I bought these during a 2024 holiday sale, and at that discounted price, they felt like a great value.
However, the regular price seems high. Compared to my previous basic Costco lights, these are a significant upgrade with color-changing, dimming, and voice control—the latter being especially convenient with my portable Alexa speaker outside.
Why We Choose
- Vibrant RGBICW multicolor lighting effects
- Smart app and voice control convenience
- Durable, waterproof, and shatterproof outdoor design
- Energy-efficient LED with high brightness
- Easy DIY mode for creative customization
4. Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights
The Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights Smart RGBIC Outdoor Lights offer a versatile, high-performance solution for year-round decorative lighting, ideal for holidays and outdoor spaces. Featuring 108 bright LEDs with advanced RGBIC technology, these lights provide dynamic color options and individually addressable lighting, allowing for stunning multi-color displays and gradients. The IP67 waterproof rating ensures durability against rain, snow, and harsh weather, making them suitable for permanent outdoor installations like rooflines and patios.
With 75 pre-programmed scene modes in the Govee App, users can easily select themes like “Christmas” or “Party” or create custom displays for any occasion. The app also enables seamless control via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, along with integration for voice commands through Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This smart home compatibility adds convenience for adjusting colors, brightness, and effects hands-free.
While the lights come at a premium price point, the advanced features and durability justify the investment. The 150-foot length may require additional planning for installation, but the result is a vibrant, long-lasting display. The superior brightness and customization options set these lights apart from competitors, delivering an impressive and reliable lighting experience.
Overall, the Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights excel in quality, innovation, and ease of use, making them a top-tier choice for creating striking outdoor displays. The combination of RGBIC technology, weather resistance, and smart controls ensures a 5-star experience, ideal for those seeking a permanent, high-end lighting solution.
Why We Choose
- Color-changing LED lights for vibrant displays
- Waterproof design for durable outdoor use
- Voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant
- Easy installation with included glue and clips
- Energy-efficient with 50,000-hour lifespan
5. XMCOSY+ Smart Outdoor String Lights
“I remember we love the lights!” The product is high-quality, with a strong outdoor cord and excellent illumination, making it a reliable choice for outdoor lighting. Customers appreciate its durability and performance, which meet expectations for outdoor use. The lights operate perfectly, providing bright and consistent lighting, which enhances the outdoor space.
However, the remote control functionality depends on proximity to the router. In cases where the router is too far from the contact point, the remote may not work effectively. While the remote feature is convenient, users may need to manually turn the lights on or off if the connection is weak.
This minor limitation does not detract from the product’s overall quality and functionality, which remains highly praised. The strength of the cord and the lighting performance are standout features, ensuring the product delivers on its core promises. Customers find it to be a worthwhile investment for outdoor illumination, despite the remote’s dependency on router proximity.
In summary, the lights are a great product with strong build quality and superb lighting, though users should ensure their router is within range for optimal remote control use. The manual operation option ensures the lights remain functional regardless of connectivity.
Why We Choose
- Energy-efficient LED with adjustable brightness
- Waterproof & shatterproof for all-weather durability
- Smart app & voice control for convenience
- Versatile for weddings, parties, and outdoor decor
- Includes spare bulbs and 98ft string length
Buying Guide for Best Outdoor Smart Lights
Key Features to Consider
When choosing outdoor smart lights, prioritize durability, performance, and convenience. Look for IP65 or higher waterproof ratings for all-weather use, shatterproof bulbs for longevity, and energy-efficient LEDs with long lifespans (20,000+ hours). Smart features like app control, voice compatibility (Alexa/Google Assistant), and customizable lighting effects (e.g., RGBICW) enhance usability. Also, consider brightness levels and DIY modes for creative flexibility.
Design and Aesthetic Appeal
Outdoor smart lights should complement your space. Opt for modern designs that fit balconies, backyards, or patios. For themed events (weddings, holidays), choose lights with multicolor options and versatile lengths (e.g., 98ft strings). Permanent fixtures often include easy installation tools like clips or glue.
Smart Connectivity and Control
Ensure the lights support Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for seamless app control. Features like scheduling, scene modes, and voice commands add convenience. Check compatibility with your existing smart home ecosystem (e.g., Alexa, Google Assistant). Some models offer group control for synchronized lighting.
Durability and Weather Resistance
Waterproof (IP65+) and shatterproof designs are essential for outdoor use. Look for materials that withstand rain, wind, and UV exposure. Products labeled “all-weather” or “permanent” often have higher durability and longer lifespans (e.g., 50,000 hours).
Installation and Maintenance
Choose lights with easy setup, such as plug-and-play models or those with included installation kits. For permanent fixtures, verify mounting options (e.g., adhesive clips). Low-maintenance options with spare bulbs and replaceable parts save time and effort.
Energy Efficiency and Cost
LED lights are energy-efficient and cost-effective long-term. Compare wattage and lifespan to estimate savings. Some models offer adjustable brightness to further reduce energy consumption. Balance upfront cost with features like smart controls and durability.
Use Cases and Versatility
Consider where and how you’ll use the lights. For decorative purposes (parties, holidays), opt for multicolor strings. For permanent lighting, choose fixtures with robust designs. Versatile products suit multiple scenarios, from beach themes to everyday backyard ambiance.
Brand and Warranty
Reputable brands like Govee and XMCOSY+ offer reliable performance and customer support. Check warranty terms (e.g., 1-2 years) for peace of mind. Read reviews to gauge real-world performance and durability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Best Outdoor Smart Lights
Are outdoor smart lights weatherproof?
Yes, most high-quality outdoor smart lights have IP65 or higher ratings, making them waterproof and dustproof. Look for terms like “all-weather” or “shatterproof” for added durability in rain, wind, or extreme temperatures.
Can I control outdoor smart lights with voice commands?
Many models support voice control via Alexa or Google Assistant. Ensure the product listing specifies compatibility with your preferred platform. App control is also common for scheduling and customization.
How long do outdoor smart lights last?
LED-based smart lights typically last 20,000 to 50,000 hours, depending on the model. Energy-efficient designs and low heat output contribute to their longevity, reducing replacement frequency.
Are these lights difficult to install?
Most outdoor smart lights are easy to install, with options like plug-and-play strings or permanent fixtures with adhesive clips. For complex setups, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines or seek professional help.
Can I use outdoor smart lights for holidays and events?
Absolutely! Many models are versatile for weddings, Christmas, or parties, offering multicolor effects and customizable scenes. Look for themes like “wedding” or “holiday” in product descriptions.