At MidlandAuthors, we’re passionate about transforming homes with top-tier landscape lighting, and we believe we’ve found the best. Landscape lighting not only elevates outdoor spaces but also enhances property security.
It breathes life into homes, accentuating gardens, walkways, water features, gathering spots, and architectural details. Many overlook the power of this lighting, but we’ve seen firsthand how it boosts a home’s curb appeal, especially for those considering selling.
Beyond aesthetics, the right exterior lighting offers practical advantages. With MidlandAuthors’ landscape lighting, we ensure a safe and inviting ambiance for families and guests to connect and enjoy.
1. ZUCKEO 5W LED Landscape Lights
After trying out the ZUCKEO 5W LED Landscape solution, I must admit it has swiftly become my top choice. The first thing that caught my attention was its undeniable durability.
Crafted with thick cast aluminum paired with a glass lens, it’s evident that this product is built to endure both time and various weather conditions. Even after considerable use, it remains in impeccable condition, both in appearance and functionality.
Its efficiency is another aspect that genuinely impressed me. The 5W LED chips not only provide ample brightness but also contribute to energy conservation.
Since I positioned them in my landscape, there’s been a noticeable dip in my energy consumption, reflecting positively on my monthly bills.
The versatility it offers is commendable. The ability to alter the illumination color means I can tailor the ambiance to suit different occasions. It’s delightful to have the flexibility to switch from a serene blue for tranquil evenings to a lively green for gatherings.
“It is, however, worth noting that this product doesn’t come with a voltage transformer.
This means that you will have to buy it separately.”
Installation was another seamless experience. The intuitive spiked stand design eliminated the need for any specialized tools or intricate procedures. A simple push into the ground, and they were set, illuminating my space beautifully.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Light source | LED |
| Input voltage | 12V |
| Color | warm white |
| Design | IP65 waterproof |
| Adjustability | 270-degrees head |
| Material | thick aluminum |
| Lumens | 500 Lumens per piece |
- Easy installation process
- Super bright light
- Adjustable head for wide application
- Waterproof design
- Heat-resistant
- Affordable
- Rust-resistant aluminum
- No low voltage transformer in the package
- You will need to buy light connectors separately
2. MEIKEE 7W LED Landscape Lights
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According to a plethora of online reviews, 800 Lumens 7W LED lights have what it takes to produce bright light for your garden, patio, pathway, and driveway.
These lights are pretty colorful and a fun way to add life to your home. Besides, they are safe to use for exterior lighting, thanks to their low voltage of 12V to 24V.
This working voltage works well with a low voltage transformer and other lighting kits.
Each light can be rotated and has a 45-degree beam angle while the head can be adjusted to 270 degrees. With this flexibility, you can easily adjust the lights to suit your lighting needs.
Impressively, this product is built with safety and protection in mind. It features a thick aluminum body that’s capable of withstanding harsh outdoor weather like rain and snow.
The stake is also crafted from top-notch nano level plastic that doesn’t break with ease.
Besides, it features an IP66 waterproof design which renders the product stable and very durable. It is also heat-resistant and won’t suffer from overheating. The installation is also pretty easy.
“The only problem is that you will need to acquire certain accessories like a transformer, low voltage wires, and wire connectors which are not included in the kit.
It also doesn’t include light patterns or extra colors.”
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of lights | 7W LED lights |
| Working voltage | 12-24V |
| Waterproof rating | IP66 |
| Luminosity | 800 Lumens |
| Body construction material | Thick aluminum |
| Adjustability | 270 degrees adjustable |
- High-quality product
- Provides your outdoors with great brightness
- Waterproof and weather-resistant
- Not prone to overheating
- Durable and stable for outdoor use
- Easy to install
- Detailed instructions
- Doesn’t include a transformer, connectors, or wires
3. SUNVIE 12W LED Lights
Are you in the market for landscaping lights that produce super bright light for your landscape, patio, driveway, or walkway?
If that’s the case, then you may want to consider this product from SUNVIE which features 8 bright LED lights. In case you’re wondering, SUNVIE is one of the leading outdoor lighting companies that manufacture top-notch lighting products.
Constructed from high-quality aluminum, this product has an IP65 waterproof design that can stand up to all types of harsh weather.
One outstanding feature is that each piece has a 900 Lumens output which is bright enough to illuminate any outdoors. Each light has a low wattage of 12V to 24V and a lifespan of 50,000 hours.
Hence, you can be assured of a stable performance without any flicker.
You will also appreciate knowing that these super warm white lights have a low power consumption that will drastically reduce your energy bills.
The installation is very easy, and the package comes with a user manual as well as a spiked stand. For reliable operation, it is important to supply the lights with a working voltage of AC/DC 12V.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type of light | COB |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Input voltage | AC/DC 12V |
| Color | super warm white |
| Lifespan | 50,000-hour |
| Protecting grade | IP65 |
| Beam angle | 90 degrees |
| Adjustable head | 270-degrees |
- Extremely bright white color
- Low power consumption
- Waterproof design
- Crafted from high-grade aluminum
- Very simple installation
- Rotatable and highly flexible
- Not extremely watertight
- The connector wire is prone to rust
4. ELEGLO 12W LED Lights
ELEGLO offers LED landscape lights that are low voltage (12W, 12V/24V AC/DC) and designed for outdoor use.
These lights are IP65 waterproof, making them ideal for various outdoor settings such as gardens, patios, walls, lawns, and pools.
The package includes 8 lights with connectors. The lights are ultra-bright with a color temperature of 3000K, providing a warm white illumination.
Made of aluminum, these lights are durable and designed to last.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wattage | 12W |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Color Temperature | Warm white (3000K) |
| IP Rating | IP65 waterproof |
| Lifespan | more than 50,000 hours |
| Input Voltage | AC/DC 12V |
| Lumens | 1000 Lumens per light |
- IP65 waterproof for outdoor use
- Ultra-bright with warm white illumination
- Durable aluminum construction
- Versatile for various outdoor settings
- Comes with connectors for easy setup
- Requires external power source
- Limited to 8 lights in a package
5. Lumina Low Voltage Lights
Having tried out various outdoor lighting solutions over the years, I stumbled upon the Lumina Low Voltage offering. Right off the bat, the cast-aluminum construction caught my attention; it gave a sturdy and durable feel.
The waterproof feature was a definite plus, considering my garden’s exposure to unpredictable weather. The beam angle, at 90 degrees, promised a good spread, which I found intriguing.
The package came with wire connectors that were waterproof, a detail I deeply appreciated given the damp conditions I sometimes experience. Also, the included user manual was straightforward and made the installation process a breeze.
However, after setting everything up, I found that they didn’t quite align with my specific preferences. It might have been the lumen output or perhaps just the overall ambiance, but they didn’t gel well with the vision I had in mind for my space.
That being said, I can see these units fitting well for someone looking for durability and a specific kind of brightness.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Design | Spotlight design |
| Material | Aluminum |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
| Compatibility | 12-volt lighting |
| Adjustability | 160-degree adjustable knuckle |
| Lens | Tempered glass lens |
| Included Items | light ABS spike, bulb, 59-inch cable |
- Wide range of applications
- Great value
- Great for outdoor use
- Adjustable and flexible head
- Durable construction
- Easy installation
- Bulb included
- Beautiful bronze finish
- Transformer not included
6. ZUCKEO RGB LED Low Voltage Lights
Another quality product from ZUCKEO, these color changing lights offer a lot when it comes to outdoor lighting.
These 10 pack lights come with a remote control to allow you to choose the colors and adjust the brightness based on your preference.
They offer great value and can add life and color to your home. One thing that makes them stand out is the memory function which enables the lights to retain the same color when turned on again.
You can choose from 16 color choices as well as 4 flashing modes including flash, fade, strobe, and smooth. It also features a spotlight design which gives it the ability to rotate to various degrees. You can easily adjust the head to the direction of your liking.
For this reason, you can install these lights for your lighting projects in high places like fences, trees, or flags.
“However, if you’re not used to installing landscape lights, you might have a bit of a hard time with this one as the instructions aren’t that easy to follow.
It’s not really a big deal for most, but for a novice, it can be quite frustrating.”
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Waterproof design | IP66 |
| Material | aluminum |
| Modes setting | 4 modes |
| Colors | 16 colors |
| Beam angle | 90 degrees |
| Lifetime | up to 30,000 hours |
| Memory function | Available |
| Lumens | 600 Lumens |
| Voltage | 24 volts |
- Multiple colors to choose from
- Ideal for outdoor and indoor use
- Easy to install
- Memory function
- Includes remote control for changing color
- Comes with a transformer
- Weather-resistant
- The included instructions could be better
7. Sunriver 6W LED Lights
At a recent visit to my friend’s home, I couldn’t help but notice the unique lighting arrangement they had. They mentioned these were the Sunriver 6W LED fixtures. Their sleek design was immediately evident, nestled comfortably within their environment without being overly dominant.
The brightness seemed just right – not too intense, yet adequately illuminating the spaces. One of the highlights, which my friend pointed out, was the stain steel panel. It not only added to the aesthetics but also promised durability. The 90-degree beam angle seemed versatile enough for different lighting needs, casting a broad and even glow.
Although I’m not an expert in lighting fixtures, from an observer’s perspective, the Sunriver 6W LED fixtures seemed to offer a balance of functionality and design.
For anyone considering a lighting upgrade or looking for a durable and aesthetic solution, these fixtures might be worth a glance. But as always, personal preferences and specific needs might vary, so it’s essential to do your research.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Material | Cast or aircraft-grade aluminum |
| Light source | LED |
| Voltage | 12 volts |
| Beam angle | 60 degrees |
| Lumens | 500 Lumens |
| Lifetime | 30,000 hours |
- Suitable for decoration purposes
- Durable construction
- Safe to handle due to their low voltage
- Comes with strong lenses that don’t crack
- Waterproof design
- Feature softer white light
- Slightly expensive
8. GreenClick Landscape Lighting Lights
If easy installation matters to you, then this landscape lighting from GreenClick would be a great choice.
This product features 4 pieces of lights that are connected to a waterproof cable connector so you just need to plug it in. The COB LEDs are energy-efficient and can be used to illuminate landscaping, driveways, walkways, as well as other outdoor lightings.
Thanks to its long cable, you can safely apply the lights even at faraway distances. You can also use the lights without the cable or purchase an extension cable if need be.
Besides, it comes with a built-in transformer so you don’t need to purchase one separately.
These garden lights have an IP65 waterproof grade to protect them from damage during bad weather conditions.
Best of all, they are crafted from thick aluminum while the glass lenses are durable enough to endure cracks and impact.
The head can be adjusted to 270 degrees which allows for wider applications including on trees, fences, bushes, as well indoors. The GreenClick LED lights have a low voltage of 12v which is safe and effective than other systems.
“Compared to the other lights we have reviewed, this one comes with an adapter that has an IP44 rating.
As such, you should make sure it’s protected properly and kept away from water. The lights, however, have an IP65 waterproof design.”
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Material | Cast aluminum |
| Lumens | 300 |
| Wattage | 3W |
| Output voltage | 12V |
| Input voltage | AC85-265V |
| Waterproof design | IP65 |
| Beam angle | 24-degree |
| Adjustable head | 270-degrees |
| Lifetime | up to 50,000 hours |
- Produces high illumination
- Easy installation
- Long power cord
- Waterproof
- Super bright and energy-efficient
- Features built-in transformer
- The adapter has an IP rating of IP44 and should be kept from water
9. COVOART Color Changing LED
The COVOART color-changing LED lights are a beautiful and unique choice of lighting for anyone who wants to adds color to their outdoor space without compromising on functionality.
This 4 pack lighting kit comes in 20 colors making the lights perfect for decorating gardens, yards, fences, patios, and sidewalks.
The lights feature a color-changing effect which is one of the best ways to decorate your yard.
To make this possible, it comes with an RF remote control that has a barrier-free sensing distance of 65 feet. It also features 22 modes and can be used as a security light for your home.
Apart from the wide application, these outdoor lights are very easy to install.
You just need to plug them into a power outlet so you can get the best illumination for your landscape. As a result, you won’t even need an electrician to install the system in your home.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Type | COB RGB LED light |
| Lumens | 800 per piece |
| Measurement | 46.5ft/ 14.2m long |
| Waterproof Rating | IP66 |
| Voltage | 12V |
| Wattage | 12 watts |
| Material | ABS plastic |
| Power source | corded electrical |
| Included | 4 in 1 light, RF remote, spike stand |
- Suitable for decoration and security
- Durable and waterproof design
- Great performance
- Multiple colors and modes to choose from
- Extremely easy to install
- Includes RF remote control
- Impressive cord length
- Can’t have more than one color at a single time
10. JESLED Outdoor Lights
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After going through online reviews, I can say JESLED Outdoor Lights definitely stand out from the crowd. The build quality is evident, with the fixtures emanating both a sleek design and an undeniable sturdiness. I am pleasantly surprised by the thoughtful inclusion of accessories, particularly the waterproof wire connectors and a comprehensive user manual.
In terms of performance, once they were properly set up, the illumination solutions were notably bright. . Another feature worth noting is the IP67 waterproof rating. Reviewers said it gives them a peace of mind, knowing that they would stand up to the elements.
A couple of noteworthy observations: The 12V voltage seemed efficient, and the stain steel panel material added an air of sophistication to the overall look. I found the beam angle of 90 degrees suitable for my needs, providing a broad coverage area without being too dispersed.
JESLED Outdoor Illumination Solutions look great, but it’s worth noting a few drawbacks. One of which is the longevity of the product.
“However, to install the lights and change the voltage versions from 110V to 12V, you will need to separately purchase a transformer and electrical wire.
Another downside is that this product is expensive compared to other models, and the lights need to be installed in a specific way.”
While a lifetime of up to 30,000 hours sounds substantial, only time will tell if they truly live up to that promise. Moreover, for those seeking more customized beam angles or varied designs, the product range might feel a tad limited.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Lumen output | 500-550 Lumens |
| Voltage | 12V |
| Waterproof rating | IP67 |
| Beam angle | 90 degrees |
| Material | stain steel panel |
| Lifetime | up to 30,000 hours |
| Included | wire connectors (waterproof), user manual |
- Bright lighting
- Outstanding performance
- Gives plenty of usages
- Comes with a high-quality light chip
- Easy to install
- Wide applications
- Energy-saving
- A bit on the expensive side
- Doesn’t come with a transformer
- The lights should be set a certain way
Buying Guide of Best LED Landscape Lighting
Whether you are planning to improve the overall curb appeal of your home or enhance the security of your property, landscape lighting can do the trick.
However, with so many options to choose from, picking the right product can be overwhelming.
To help you with that, we have compiled the following factors that you should consider to help you narrow down your search:
1. Compatibility Current Fixtures
First and foremost, you need to consider the current setup for your outdoor lighting.
Check the lighting fixtures that have already been installed and ensure that they are appropriate for your outdoor lights.
Also, determine whether your home is equipped with all the necessary connections and outlets for your project.
If you don’t have exterior lighting sources in your home, be sure to hire an electrician to help you achieve the right setup.
2. Lighting Location
Before you go shopping for landscape lighting, make sure you know which area you want to light.
This will help you find the right lighting for your space since there are different types of landscape lights designed for different spaces.
Do you want decorative lighting or simply navigational lighting to light up your path at night? If your subject is the walkway, ground lighting will be effective in helping you achieve optimal results.
Alternatively, you can go for a combination of low and high lights to highlight the subject in your design.
3. Power Source
Lighting’s power source is another important factor to keep in mind when choosing outdoor lighting for your landscape. Typically, there are different types of power sources for landscape lighting including electrical, battery, solar power, and candles.
Electrical lighting is a permanent fixture that requires wiring, but it can give you more consistent lighting and can even burn more brightly.
Solar-powered lighting stores sunlight energy during the day and lights up when the sun goes down. This type of lighting is energy-efficient and will help to cut down your energy bills. Thanks to technology, solar lighting lasts longer, and you may only need to replace the batteries if they stop working.
They also don’t require wiring and do very well in warm areas. The downside is that it has a higher initial cost.
Battery-powered lighting is a portable option that doesn’t require wiring. This lighting gives a consistent amount of light and stops when the battery runs out.
It is worth noting that the batteries will need replacement depending on how often the lighting is used. If you want to create drama in your outdoor setting or create a more intimate environment, candles would be a great option.
Candles can be placed at the steps of your garden or along the path for easy navigation. The downside with candles is that they can deplete very quickly and may require frequent replacement.
Also, if left unattended, candles can lead to potential fire hazards.
4. Types of Bulb
It is important to consider the right type of bulb when it comes to landscape lighting.
There are different types of bulbs that you can choose from including incandescent bulbs, halogen bulbs, and LED light bulbs – each having its own pros and cons.
Incandescent light bulbs are cost-effective; however, they have a shorter lifespan and are least energy-efficient as compared to the other options. Moreover, they can get very hot over time. Halogen light bulbs are energy-efficient and can help you save up to 20% of energy than incandescent light bulbs.
It only takes a few seconds for this bulb to achieve full brightness. However, they have a short lifetime and can get quite hot.
LED light bulbs are the best option if efficiency is important for you.
They can save up to 90% of energy more than incandescent bulbs and achieve full brightness instantaneously. Aside from that, they’re also environment-friendly and can last up to 30% longer compared to incandescent light bulbs.
LEDs provide you with a great opportunity if you want to increase the curb appeal of your garden without breaking the bank.
5. Wattage
Wattage refers to the amount of energy that a bulb produces, and this will determine its brightness. The higher the wattage, the brighter the lighting will be.
However, you should choose lighting fixtures with the right wattage depending on your needs.
For instance, if you are planning to light darker areas, opt for outdoor lighting with high wattage. On the other hand, low wattage is preferred if you are looking for lighting for decorative purposes.
6. Durability
Outdoor lighting needs to be durable and be able to withstand daily wear and tear.
The best landscape lighting should also be able to withstand harsh weather conditions and other exterior elements that can compromise its lifespan and quality.
7. Style of Home
Once you are ready to get started with landscape lighting, make sure that you assess the style of your home.
You want to ensure that the lighting you choose complements the style and color of your home. Doing so will help enhance the overall look of your home and exterior.
For instance, if you have an English bungalow, carriage-style lighting may not fit well. Similarly, ensure that the lighting matches the color and look of your landscape and exterior.
8. IP Rating
IP (Ingress Protection) rating is a crucial feature when shopping for landscape lighting.
Electrical, solar-powered, and battery-powered lightings all feature an IP rating which indicates whether they are protected from dirt and water intrusion.
Lights that have the first digit of the IP rating indicate protection from the intrusion of foreign bodies and moving parts. On the other hand, the second digit of the IP rating shows protection against moisture.
9. Color Temperature and Degrees
The correlated color temperature of lighting also matters when you want to illuminate your garden.
This is the color of light that the light source produces. It is measured in Kelvin (K), and a higher Kelvin value gives the light source a color hue close to that of sunlight.
Different color temperatures have different Kelvin values which you need to note before making your decision.
For example, the amber hue falls in the 3,500K range or lower, the white hue has an output of 3,500K to 4,100K, and the blue hue has a range of 4,200K.
It is, therefore, advised to check the packaging for the Kelvin value before making a buying decision.
FAQs
What is landscape lighting?
Landscape lighting refers to the use of outdoor illumination to enhance the aesthetics, safety, and functionality of residential and commercial landscapes.
How long do landscape lights last?
The lifespan of landscape lights depends on several factors, including the type of light source, the quality of the fixtures, and the conditions they are exposed to. Here is a general overview of the longevity of various landscape light sources:
Why is the ZUCKEO brand the best for landscape lighting?
ZUCKEO is a top-rated manufacturer of lighting products. They offer cost-effectiveness and have one of the best low voltage landscape lighting products in the market. They also don’t compromise on quality, and all their products are very durable.
Are LED landscape lighting worth it?
Yes, LED landscape lighting is worth it as it lets you enjoy your time outdoors long after the sun goes down. It also adds to the curb appeal of your property by accentuating the architectural details of your exterior.
How many Lumens do I need for landscape lighting?
Lumen is a unit measurement of light that greatly determines the brightness of the bulb. Bulbs with more Lumens produce a brighter light than their counterparts. When it comes to outdoor lighting, having the appropriate amount of light is very crucial.
Which should I buy: 5W, 6W, or 12W?
The energy consumption of various lights varies and is measured in wattage. The more the watts, the brighter the bulb will be, but it also means more energy consumption. LEDs have a lower watt rating since they are designed to have low energy consumption.
Do’s and Don’ts of Landscape Lighting
Each home is unique, and the requirements of homeowners may vary.
However, there are some dos and don’ts that every homeowner looking to install landscape lighting should keep in mind. They’re as follows:
- Focus on the architectural features that you want to highlight
- Use LED lights to save on energy bills
- Space out the lighting to achieve balance
- Adjust the angles of lights to ensure mixed directional lighting
- Use multiple layers
- Choose bulbs with the right wattage
- Do consider the light and shadow
- Do use accent light for dark corners
- Don’t place landscaping lighting in a straight line
- Don’t ignore dark and small spaces
- Don’t overcrowd light fixtures in one space
- Don’t use the same lighting design for staircases and pathway
Conclusion
In my thorough examination of LED and low voltage landscape lighting kits, I’ve gained a clear understanding of their design, functionality, and the transformative effect they have on outdoor spaces.
These lighting solutions not only prioritize energy efficiency but also significantly enhance the beauty of landscapes. The impact of strategically chosen lighting is profound. Reflecting on the diverse options available, it’s evident that selecting the right fit for one’s needs can lead to lasting satisfaction and enriched outdoor ambiance.
In conclusion, choosing the best LED and low voltage landscape lighting is a harmonious blend of art and technology, ensuring our outdoor areas shine brilliantly.
