Sitting out on the patio of your backyard under the shade of an umbrella is something you imagine doing on a warm spring day. But if you deck that same umbrella with lights, you can use it to sit out even after sundown.
This is where patio umbrella lights come into play. They come in many different styles and forms. You can hang them on your umbrella like fairy lights or attach the disc-styled lights for more focused illumination. There are several brands offering a host of products under each style. So choosing one can be a tad bit confusing.
Sunnyglade LED Lighted Patio Umbrella
Our Top Recommendation for Patio Umbrella Lights!
The Sunnyglade patio umbrella is a cutting-edge solar panel umbrella that looks great in any yard, lawn, or patio. A sun-resistant canopy covers this 9-foot patio umbrella, supported by eight steel ribs studded with 24 LED lights.
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To clear this confusion, it helps to find the best umbrella patio lights assorted and reviewed on one page, which is exactly what we have done. Here, you will find the 8 best patio umbrella lights along with their best features and a handy buying guide at the end.
If you want just the names of the best products for a quick buy, you can find them down here.
Bonus read: 15 Amazing DIY Backyard Lighting Ideas
Detailed Reviews for the Best Patio Umbrella Lights
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Sunnyglade LED Lighted Patio Umbrella | • Adjustable • Lightweight | |
 | ABCCANOPY Patio Umbrella Lights | • Hassle-free setup and storage • Use day or night | |
 | Addlon Outdoor String Lights | • Smart Installation • Weatherproof & Heavy-duty | |
 | Yinou Mirror Solar Lantern Hanging Patio Lights | • Easy to install • Waterproof and Durable | |
 | Honwell Patio Umbrella Pole Lights | • Remote control & Battery operated light • Install quickly | |
 | POOCCI Cordless Patio Umbrella Lights | • Waterproof • Remote control | |
 | TIKMATE 2PACK Patio Umbrella Lights | • Portable • Environmental-friendly • Adjustable brightness | |
 | OYOCO Patio Umbrella Light | • Lightweight • Affordable |
Can’t pick between these? No worries. You can go through our review of each umbrella light and decide which one you like the best.
1. Sunnyglade LED Lighted Patio Umbrella
Sunnyglade’s patio umbrella comes with 24 LED lights studded on 8 steel ribs with 3 on each rib. These are powered by environment-friendly solar cells placed on top of the umbrella and, on a full charge, give up to 6 hours of efficient lighting.
When open, the umbrella fans out to an impressive 9 feet wide diameter which is enough to provide shade to several people at the same time. To enhance the sun-blocking capability of the umbrella, its fabric is made with thick polyester which does not allow a majority of the heat to pass through. Additionally, the fabric is fade-resistant as well as waterproof to endure any weather.
Opening and closing the umbrella is pretty simple due to a cranking mechanism. With the push of a button and minor guidance with your hand, you can tilt the umbrella in the direction of the sun to achieve maximum sunshade throughout the day. Plus, the canopy has a vented design that lets you enjoy the cool breeze at all times, while also keeping the umbrella stable against the wind.
Furthermore, the ribs and pole are made of rust-free aluminum for increased damage-resistance and durability.
What We Liked
- Available in multiple bright colors
- Includes a strap for convenient wrapping and storage
- Adjustable tilt with a push button
- Quick and snappy opening and closing cranking mechanism
- Switch to turn lights on/off helps to conserve battery life when not needed
- Lightweight
What We Didn’t Like
- Doesn’t include an umbrella base
- Brightness of the lights cannot be adjusted
2. ABCCANOPY Patio Umbrella Lights
With 32 LED lights and 12 color variants to choose from, this patio umbrella light by ABCCANOPY offers many attractive features at a reasonable price.
First up, the LED lights are solar-powered and last for 9 to 12 hours when charged to full capacity. For this, the solar panel is located at the top of the umbrella. So while you enjoy your time out in the sun, your patio umbrella gets charged so you can keep the party going into the night as well. What’s more, you can save the battery by switching it off when not in use.
The fabric that provides the canopy is water, UV, as well as fade-resistant so as to last for a long time. Additionally, the umbrella can be tilted with a crank to block the sun from any direction. And when you want to pack it for the day, you can do so with ease by using the detachable pole and crank handle.
What We Liked
- Double-stitch pockets for preventing the seams from bursting
- Solar-powered lights stay on for many hours
- Strong frame with rust-resistant pole and sturdy ribs
- Convenient on and off switch
- Bright lighting with 32 lights, 4 on each rib
- Wide shade cover at 9 feet
What We Didn’t Like
- Package ships without base/stand
- Not very stable in heavy winds
You might be interested in: 5 Backyard Lighting Ideas For The Holiday Season
3. Addlon Outdoor String Lights
If you prefer mood lighting on your patio, Addlon string light fixtures are a great choice for you. The strands each have 15 hanging sockets to which 11W incandescent bulbs are attached. Every hanging socket has a hook on the top which can be used to securely hang the lights on your umbrella or anywhere else on your patio. You can also group a bunch of them together for a custom lighting appearance.
While these bulbs provide a bright illumination on their own, they are compatible for use with most commercially available dimmer switches. So, if you want to create a dimly lit ambiance, you can get one of those and add it to the Addlon for the perfect outdoor lighting.
A noteworthy feature of these lights is that they are constructed of an insulation material that makes them withstand any weather without any damage whatsoever. Moreover, the entire length of the cord is highly flexible and can be folded upon itself without worrying about tears or breakage appearing.
What We Liked
- Long cord extends up to 48 feet
- Weatherproof construction
- Bright bulbs at 11W each
- Dimmer-switch compatible
- 15 bulbs included
What We Didn’t Like
- Needs to be plugged into an electric socket
4. Yinou Mirror Solar Lantern Hanging Patio Lights
Barbecues and outdoor gatherings post sundown can be made all the more happening with the addition of these hanging patio lights. The intricately carved patterns on the outside of the lanterns give them an antique and charming look. Add to that the appearance of a flickering flame inside the lantern, and you are sure to wow your guests with your choice of lighting.
On top of the lantern is a solar panel that gets fully charged with under 4 to 5 hours of sunlight. With this, it provides up to 15 hours of uninterrupted lighting. To enable solar charging, however, you need to press the power switch, located at the bottom of the lantern, to the on position.
This is not the case with the operation of the lantern itself though. That is, you don’t need to manually turn it on or off. It does so automatically, by turning on at dusk and switching off at dawn. Convenient, right?
As for durability, you can be perfectly relaxed. It has an IP65 waterproof rating and will outlive many seasons of rain or snow.
What We Liked
- Artistically carved design
- Charge lasts for 15 hours
- Easy to install with a metal ring and clip on top
- Automatic on/off
- Small and portable enough to be carried anywhere with ease
What We Didn’t Like
- Lighting could have been brighter
5. Honwell Patio Umbrella Pole Lights
Honwell Patio Umbrella Lights are battery-operated pole lights that can be controlled with a remote. They have 16 color change options and a dimmer with four brightness levels to help dampen the effect of the LEDs and get a dim-lit ambient light setting.
Additionally, you can also set the lighting to flash, strobe, or fade and have an entertaining outdoor party lighting system without any trouble.
The device is meant to fit the pole of an umbrella but can also be hung from a hook thanks to a loop on its top. It runs on 6 AA batteries which can be replaced when they run out. But you don’t have to worry about them running out of charge any time soon as they can run for a total of 50 hours.
What We Liked
- Quick installation without the need for power cords or any tools
- 20 LED lights provide a bright illumination
- Four different brightness levels and 16 color lights to suit your mood
- Simple remote-controlled operation
- Compatible with most patio umbrella poles
What We Didn’t Like
- Batteries not included
- Colored lighting is less bright than white light
Also read: 3 Inexpensive Ways to Cover Concrete Patio
6. POOCCI Cordless Patio Umbrella Lights
These string lights from POOCCI are suitable for hanging from your patio umbrella. It has 13 branches containing 8 LED lights on each branch. The length of the branches is 130 cm and can be cut to fit umbrella ribs ranging from 6 feet to 10 feet in diameter.
For convenience-of-use, the LED lights can be controlled with a remote. This remote has many practical functions such as brightness adjustment, light effects switching, as well as a light cycling option. With these, you can set the brightness to a level you desire and cycle between 8 modes of lighting which include twinkle, slow fade, slow glow, and steady on.
Aside from that, the battery box and the cable are both water-resistant, thus allowing them to be protected from damage against drizzles and minor splashes of water.
What We Liked
- Can fit a wide range of patio umbrellas
- 8 lighting modes
- Adjustable brightness
- Water-resistant battery box and cable
- Quick and convenient remote-controlled operation
- Compatible with rechargeable AA batteries
What We Didn’t Like
- Installation instructions aren’t too clear
- Batteries not included
7. TIKMATE 2PACK Patio Umbrella Lights
The TIKMATE 2PACK Patio Umbrella Lights include 28 LEDs and adjustable brightness, making them ideal for nighttime outdoor sports.
This elegant umbrella light has two modes of operation. To turn on all 28 LEDs, and get a full light experience, switch it to the right. On the other hand, twist the light to the left for a dimly lit setting and turn on only 8 LEDs.
The product includes two built-in rechargeable batteries, obviating the requirement for battery replacement. This light can be charged in eight hours using a matching USB cord (for full charge). The batteries last 18 hours on the highest setting and 54 hours in low light after fully charging. You can simply clamp these lights around the sunshade or patio umbrella to install them, and you are all good to go!
What We Liked
- Ease of installation
- Long-lasting
- Built-in chargeable batteries
- It comes with a matching USB- cable
- Two modes of brightness
- Affordability
What We Didn’t Like
- Not waterproof
- The adapter is not included
8. OYOCO Patio Umbrella Light
This disc lighting by OYOCO is equipped with 28 LEDs that can be operated through three modes. In the dim mode, only the inner 4 lights are on and this mode can be turned on by pressing the button once. Pressing a second time will turn up the brightness and three button presses help you achieve maximum brightness.
You can install these lights simply by clamping them around the pole of your patio umbrella. In addition to this, there are two hooks integrated into the top of the device so you can hang it from anywhere else on your patio.
What We Liked
- Lightweight
- Three modes of brightness
- Affordable price tag
- Scalable range of the clamps
- Two loops to hang it from anywhere
What We Didn’t Like
- Not adequately water-proof
Things To Consider While Buying Patio Umbrella Lights
Some points to keep in mind when you set out to buy a patio umbrella light are:
#1. Brightness
The number of LED lights that an umbrella or a hanging patio light has will decide how bright the lighting is. If you need mild ambient lighting, an umbrella light with 24 to 30 LED lights is sufficient. But if you want stronger lights, for instance, for reading or playing games, you should go for a product that offers either a larger number of LEDs or has brighter bulbs.
#2. Durability
Since your umbrella patio light is going to stay out, unless you want to pack it after every use, you need one that is resistant to damage by heat and moisture. Buy a product with waterproof material so you can easily use it in the rain. Also, make sure the fabric is wear and tear-resistant so that it can last for a long time.
#3. Power Source
Lighting can be battery-operated or corded. If you intend to keep the umbrella at a fixed place and have a wall socket near the place of installation, you can try corded patio umbrella lights. Also, they are less costly than other variants, so if price is a constraint, remember that they are a workable option.
But for all other purposes, battery-operated systems are more convenient. They are portable, can be placed anywhere, and usually run on AA batteries which are easily obtainable when you want to replace them. If you don’t want that hassle, you can also pick lighting with rechargeable batteries.
A better and greener alternative is a solar-powered lighting, which uses the energy of the sun to recharge batteries. So if you live in a region where there are more sunny days than cloudy ones, you can choose solar-powered lighting.
This is highly convenient and practical as you can prop up the umbrella open through the day while the battery gets charged. The lights will automatically switch on come nightfall.
A downside of this is that the lighting doesn’t stay on for as long as on electrically rechargeable batteries and, of course, on corded devices.
#4. Type of Lighting
Depending on what use you intend to take out of your umbrella, you can choose from either strand lighting or disc lighting. While strand lights fan out along the rib-lines of the umbrella, disc lights come in single or multiple discs and have embedded lights in them.
A strand light is desirable for a milder ambiance. On the other hand, for a brightly lit environment, you will need a disc light with multiple LEDs.
Buying Guide for the Best Patio Umbrella Light
We bet you’re eager to go outside and use your outdoor space as the weather starts to cool off. Nothing compares to the pleasure of basking in the sunshine while seated under a huge patio umbrella without being burned.
However, purchasing patio umbrella lights is the best option if you want to continue using your outdoor dining area after sundown.
Consequently, investing in the proper patio umbrella lights will be much more sensible. So let’s get up close and personal with the variables to consider when purchasing patio umbrella lights.
1. Type of Lighting – Pole Vs. String
The type of lighting should be taken into account first. We want to point out that when buying patio umbrella lights, one should consider the lights’ intended use.
The two primary lighting options for patio umbrellas are Pole and String, from which one must select the appropriate option based on their needs.
Pole
Under the umbrella, pole lights are excellent for activities like reading, playing games, serving food, etc. In addition, pole lights are the correct option for focused brightness because they are brighter.
These are generally available in two shapes: square and round, and they are attached from around the top of the umbrella pole.
String
Hang string lights along the umbrella’s ribs to create the ideal outdoor place for entertaining friends and family. These lights will add a lovely glow to your outside patio area. Hang some lanterns nearby to brighten up the space even more.
2. Number of LEDs
Another consideration while selecting the best patio umbrella lights is the number of LED lights. It is only natural that the more LEDs you have, the brighter your light will be.
Furthermore, a greater number of LEDs will cover a larger area. Having stated that, some basic models have 20 – 40 LEDs, providing excellent brightness. However, you can select a light with 44 – 104 LEDs if you want more brightness.
Whatever number you select, remember that the number of LEDs will impact battery life. So, make an informed decision.
3. Brightness Rating
The brightness rating is expressed in lumens (LM). LED lights typically have a brightness intensity of 200 to 400 lumens or greater. The brighter the lights will be, the greater the brightness rating.
That being said, you can select high-end umbrella lights that allow you to alter the brightness of the LED lights as needed without depleting their battery.
4. Lighting Modes
The lighting setting allows you to adjust the light intensity and take in the surroundings to suit your needs and preferences. Following the number of LEDs and the brightness rating, this is the third factor to examine.
There are various lighting modes available with various patio umbrella lights. Some have two modes, while others have three, five, or even ten lighting options.
The standard lightning settings are available in dim, bright, and extra-bright. When you don’t need the light to be on full blast, these three categories are combined to create several illumination settings.
Certain light types incorporate a switch that enables shifting between several brightness settings for greater lighting management. Additionally, the use of several lightning modes allows for situation-specific ambiance settings.
5. Power Source Type
The power source of the patio umbrella light also plays an important role. There are typically three variants – mains, solar, or battery- available in this context. In addition, each lighting power source has its pros and cons. So, let’s dig deeper to understand different power sources better.
Main
This lighting source is directly connected to the main electricity supply. Therefore, the plug only has to be connected to a reliable mains power source. If you want uninterrupted, steady lightning, this power source is ideal.
They are a dependable and cost-effective choice. But keep in mind that this kind uses direct electricity. Its primary flaw is the abundance of electricity lines on the patio, which can lead to tripping.
Additionally, if your yard is larger than the umbrella light’s cord, you might need to spend money on a nice extension cord to connect the main plug.
Solar
This is a sustainable choice because solar energy is used to generate power. Here is a simple explanation for people unfamiliar with how solar-powered lights work: “During the day, solar-powered lights collect and store the received sunshine, and when it is dark, the energy stored turns on the lights.”
Therefore, solar-powered umbrella lights are the best choice if you reside in a sunny place. But keep in mind that solar-powered lights won’t operate to their full ability in overcast or wet conditions.
Battery
Choose the battery-powered patio umbrella lights if you don’t want to deal with cords. They are handy, attractive, energy-efficient, and user-friendly.
Using battery-operated lighting will ensure you have access to light anywhere you need it while also easing the strain on your electricity bill.
However, we advise purchasing lights with rechargeable batteries if you want to avoid promoting waste. Additionally, this will promote sustainability and lessen pollution.
AA rechargeable batteries recharged through a socket, solar panel, or USB connection are the best option.
6. Design
Now let’s discuss designs. When it comes to patio umbrella lights, there is no lack of variety. Which one will you pick, then? When to discover more about them in depth is up to you.
Strand lights
The purpose of strand lights is to be placed on an umbrella. These lights brilliantly illuminate the region and cover the entire umbrella.
Stand lights can be the best option if you want a calming impact and mood-lighting ambiance. Of course, it goes without saying that these lights produce a cozy atmosphere ideal for time spent with loved ones.
However, there are three things to keep in mind when shopping for these lights:
The diameter of the umbrella
It is essential to take the umbrella’s diameter into account. We mention this because it will make determining the ideal length for each lighting strand easier.
The number of ribs
Of course, knowing the number of ribs is necessary to purchase the appropriate number of light strings. For example, typical patio umbrellas typically include 8 ribs.
However, you can now get umbrellas with 6, 9, or even more ribs. Therefore, while making a purchase, ensure the number of strands and ribs on the umbrella correspond.
The umbrella shape
Any strand light setup is suitable with a typical patio umbrella. But this is different with a cantilever or an asymmetrical umbrella. So you need to find a strand lighting setup to support these kinds of umbrellas.
Disc lights
We prefer disc lights personally. Clearly, they are attached to the umbrella shaft and have a trendy appearance similar to little UFOs. Disc lights produce light from top to bottom.
Remember that the disc lights are brighter and more concentrated along the umbrella’s pole. So you can try disc lights for better lighting just below the umbrella.
Make sure to measure the diameter of the umbrella pole before purchasing disc lights so you can select the one that will fit best.
Hanging Lanterns
Choose hanging umbrella lanterns if you want to add an old-world elegance to your patio. These are portable lights that hang from the patio umbrellas. Most lanterns come in various sizes and light levels and are solar-powered.
So, they are eco-friendly. Not just patio umbrellas, but all outdoor spaces look beautiful with lanterns. Depending on their size, you may either attach these lights to the borders of the umbrellas like string lights or hang them from strands of the umbrella structure.
So, you can count on obtaining a charming appearance no matter how you hand the lanterns on your patio umbrella.
Spotlights
Spotlights are also a fantastic option. Use solar-powered spotlights that directly attach to your patio umbrella pole instead. These environmentally friendly lights may be manually switched on and off.
These lights can also be left on throughout the night. The best thing is that they instantly recharge over the day because they use solar energy. In addition, the wire-based solar panel can be hooked covertly to the tip of the umbrella canopy.
7. Waterproof Rating
Since a patio umbrella is used outdoors, it only makes sense that you would want to confirm that it is waterproof. Additionally, the umbrella would have lights connected.
Thus it is crucial to examine the lights’ ability to withstand the weather. The lights’ shelf life will be extended, and they will be protected from water spills or rain by the weatherproofing feature. Some high-end LED lights have waterproof qualities. These lights cost extra, though.
Here’s an interesting fact: if the product has an IP rating, it will safeguard the light from wet situations. However, no matter what product you purchase, be sure to shield it from direct water since it will stop working if water gets inside the device.
8. Runtime
LED lights on patio umbrellas typically last 8 to 18 hours. However, it is advised that you verify each model’s actual runtime by checking it.
Regardless of the runtime, the source of electricity and charging frequency have a significant impact on the lighting.
9. Remote Control
Gone are the days when you must get up every time to switch on or off your patio umbrella lights. Nowadays, thanks to sophisticated technologies, most of these lights can be controlled with the touch of a remote.
Additionally, you may adjust other functions like brightness, colors, and light modes using the remote. Therefore, investing in LED lights with remote control functions is worthwhile.
10. Warranty
When buying patio umbrella lights, this consideration must be taken into account. These lights are designed to be installed in outdoor umbrellas, where they will be subjected to various environmental challenges, including water, heat, wind, and other elements.
So, it must be extremely durable, weather- or waterproof, and should come under a warranty to perform for a long time.
With this in mind, keep in mind that the majority of lights have a 1-year standard guarantee. However, some high-end lights come with a 2- or 5-year warranty.
Conclusion
Patio umbrella lights add a spark of style to your deck as well as your entire backyard. Hanging out in your backyard will entice you, your family, as well as your friends more if you have stunning lights placed there.
Since there are a number of options to pick from, we have narrowed the search down to the absolute best patio umbrella lights. That, with the buying guide, will definitely make it easier for you to choose one that you like.
For more patio revamping inspiration, go through our list of 17 impressive enclosed patio design ideas.