12 Best Outdoor House Lights to Brighten Up Your Exterior

Sick of putting up and taking down your lights for every holiday? Or want more illumination around your home, but don’t like the look of string lights? These permanent outdoor lights from Govee are an excellent option. They’re sleeker than your average string light and are easily installed with the included VHB glue and clips. You can control the colors and effects right from your phone, so you can switch the look up from everyday to special occasion with a tap of a button. “I couldn’t be more impressed,” raves one five-star reviewer. “Whether it’s for a cozy evening or a festive occasion, these lights set the perfect vibe.”

For stunning path lighting, look no further than the Philips Capri. Without any mess of wires, the Capri can be installed quickly and with ease. Simply position it in a sunny area to charge during the day, and you’ll enjoy up to 10 hours of glow at night. With a sturdy, weather-resistant design and a sleek black silhouette, this is an outdoor light that will last for years to come—not just because of its style, but also its durability. 

Solar lights can be tough to get right, but over 9,000 5-star ratings back this option up. They have 8 LEDs per light (which is more than your standard 6) and last between 6-8 hours. Reviewers say they take just seconds to install, and emit a “really cozy, elegant glow.” And the price can’t be beat, either.

What could be more charming than a post light? They add elegance and personality to any exterior, while serving the functional purpose you need, too. This fixture from our collection checks all the boxes, balancing classic and contemporary style and casting a warm, ambient glow from its timeless filament bulb. It’s offered in antique bronze and textured black, so you can choose the finish that best fits your style.

LED lights are popular for their energy-saving properties and long lifespan. These outdoor LED wall options are beloved for their easy install and their modern appearance. They illuminate at the top and bottom for extra brightness and are fully waterproof. Plus, they’re made of aluminum for durability, which reviewers love. “We’ve had them for about a year now and [they] have held up perfectly,” shares one satisfied customer.

When you need to banish dark backyards and alleyways, this high-powered, waterproof flood light is the key. It comes with three adjustable heads and 154 ultra-bright LEDs. “This thing is bright!” confirms one 5-star reviewer. “It not only works well but is clearly built very well.” Another reviewer used this outdoor lighting to turn their driveway into a 24-hour basketball court. Talk about a bright idea!

These durable outdoor house lights are a gorgeous way to elevate your front porch. We love the modern style, complete with fluted glass that comes in a clear or frosted finish. The metal canopy has an elegant brass finish and its contract-grade, too, so it’s as long-lasting as it is beautiful.

Front porches are charming all on their own, but lighting can help illuminate them for all-weather use and add an extra dose of style. These waterproof porch lights come in four different finishes (black, white, gold, and chocolate), and the clear beveled glass shade is a classic beauty. Reviewers share that this outdoor lighting is easy to install and built to last. They have a slim profile, too, so they’re easy to balance with other decorative elements.

This outdoor lighting offers plenty of security, with motion sensors that cast a bright light when it detects motion from up to 30 feet away (not to worry, it automatically shuts off in 20 seconds once the movement stops!). “I highly recommend this spotlight,” says one reviewer, who says they purchased several of these more than six years ago and they’re all still working beautifully.

Outdoor dining areas aren’t complete without a ceiling light. This two-toned pendant would elevate any alfresco dinner party or hangout and can easily blend into most design styles. A note that its only damp-rated, so it has to be covered from the elements.

Arrange this striking modern light along a walkway or at the edge of your garden for a statement piece the whole neighborhood will notice. It casts a warm glow and comes with a dimmer so you can adjust the light however you like. Oh, and it’s solar and micro-USB rechargeable for an eco-friendly touch.

Create an elegant entryway by hanging this pendant lantern on your covered porch, patio, or entryway. The sleek design includes clear glass, and a nostalgic filament bulb that casts a warm and inviting glow.