TechGearLab

The Solatec LED represents the best of modern outdoor design and construction. A tasteful Edison bulb encases a double filament 2W LED. The LED is a brighter white than an incandescent bulb, but not the glaring white of early generation LEDs. The cable is durable and weather resistant and will perform well in difficult outdoor settings. Each bulb screws into a flexible rubber skirt that seals around the bulb, blocking out inclement weather. We liked the design of the hanging "T" junction for each bulb, as it made installation a breeze and allowed the main cable and each light to have a little visual separation.
Our only real criticism of the Solatec is that the commercial-grade construction may be overkill for some people's desired use. However, we appreciated this added durability and the fact that they could be set up once and never taken down. We also liked the weatherproof consideration given to the male and female plug ends. The female end featured a cover that could close off the socket from outside moisture. The male plug was designed to create a weatherproof seal when stringing multiple strands together. Our set only arrived with one spare bulb, but since the bulbs themselves are made of durable plastic, we expect the extra to sit on the shelf for a long time before being put to use. 

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The Lemontec Commercial Grade Lights are a more substantial offering in the incandescent glass string light category. The Edison bulb is larger than its globe-style counterparts, and the heavy wiring between each bulb has much more of a permanent installation feel. The bulb to socket junction is sealed nicely, and the plug is weather sealed like the Solatec. In fact, they seem to be almost identical cords. The lights were a nice middle range of brightness; they are less bright than their LED comparable and brighter than their globe incandescent neighbors. The cord is long enough to string across large spaces, but the spacing is a bit wider, too, with three feet of spacing between bulbs.
Overall, the Lemontec was extremely similar to our best choice, but in an incandescent offering. Generally, this means a warmer, softer light, with a little less durability and higher energy use. The second effect of the higher energy use per bulb is that the overall number of cords that can be strung together is reduced. The Lemontec recommends connecting no more than three strings simultaneously. Some glass bulbs we tested felt extremely fragile. These bulbs, although glass, were much more confidence-inspiring and never broke in our testing process. If the wide spacing seems beneficial for your installation needs, we think these are a nice upgrade over your everyday incandescent model.

The Lemontec Commercial Grade Lights are a more substantial offering in the incandescent glass string light category. The Edison bulb is larger than its globe-style counterparts, and the heavy wiring between each bulb has much more of a permanent installation feel. The bulb-to-socket junction is sealed nicely, and the plug is weather-sealed like the Solatec. In fact, they seem to be almost identical cords. The lights were a nice middle range of brightness; they are less bright than their LED comparable and brighter than their globe incandescent neighbors. The cord is long enough to string across large spaces, but the spacing is a bit wider, too, with three feet of spacing between bulbs.
Overall, the Lemontec was extremely similar to our best choice, but in an incandescent offering. Generally, this means a warmer, softer light, with a little less durability and higher energy use. The second effect of the higher energy use per bulb is that the overall number of cords that can be strung together is reduced. The Lemontec recommends connecting no more than three strings simultaneously. Some glass bulbs we tested felt extremely fragile. These bulbs, although glass, were much more confidence-inspiring and never broke in our testing process. If the wide spacing seems beneficial for your installation needs, we think these are a nice upgrade over your everyday incandescent model.

Though the GuoTonG 50ft Plug-in LED Rope Light isn't as flashy or feature-laden as some of the other models we tested, we still found it to be a great choice that offers reliable, dependable performance. When adjusted for length, this set was the brightest of all of the lights in our review. We loved having the ability to cut and reseal the end, and this set also has a built-in fuse to avoid any potential electrical hazards. At 50 feet long, the placement options are abundant. We found the GuoTonG to be reliably waterproof; it survived our sprinkler and rain tests without any signs of water damage or shorting out. This model includes mounting brackets with screws and zip ties to two separate cords that allow you to have two independent light strands if you cut the original.
Though we love the brightness offered by the GuoTonG, there is no dimming feature, which would be helpful for times when you want to change the ambiance. It's also a cooler temperature of light, which works better in interior spaces that are similarly toned, rather than paired with warm colors. Whether used for indoor or outdoor settings, we think the GuoTonG is a great choice. 

Though the GuoTonG Plug-in LED isn't as flashy or feature-laden as some of the other models we tested, we still found it to be a great choice that offers reliable, dependable performance. When adjusted for length, this set was the brightest of all of the lights in our review. We loved having the ability to cut and reseal the end, and this set also has a built-in fuse to avoid any potential electrical hazards. At 50 feet long, the placement options are abundant. We found the GuoTonG to be reliably waterproof; it survived our sprinkler and rain tests without any signs of water damage or shorting out. This model includes mounting brackets with screws and zip ties to two separate cords that allow you to have two independent light strands if you cut the original.
Though we love the brightness offered by the GuoTonG, there is no dimming feature, which would be helpful for times when you want to change the ambiance. It's also a cooler temperature of light, which works better in interior spaces that are similarly toned, rather than paired with warm colors. Whether used for indoor or outdoor settings, we think the GuoTonG is a great choice. 

Another bright, straightforward light is the Amazon Basics 210 LED. At 20 feet long, it's shorter than some other contenders, but depending on your scenario, this may be desirable. The thick, tubular design is pretty durable and shines bright white light all around it. The tubing does a great job at protecting the light, and this model resisted kinks better than most during our testing period. 
For the most part, this design is quite basic, and it would have been nice if there was a little more to it. It lacks a power switch, although that can be remedied by pairing it with a smart plug or extension cord with switches. Otherwise, to turn it off, it must be unplugged. You also don't have the option to cut it to the desired length, unlike some other products in this review. Still, for value, it's less expensive than the other similar options and casts a ton of light.

expert-review

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Wirecutter

If you like the look of round bulbs, this affordable string of lights can add a cute decorative touch to a balcony or patio. Plus, each bulb has a handy built-in hook for hanging.

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