Best Outdoor String Lights for 2025: Our Experts Are Here to Brighten Up Your Garden and More

Can the lights withstand the elements? Vibe Pixie String Lights were great on a recent camping trip. John Carlsen/CNET As outdoor lights, the hardware should be well-suited to handle the weather conditions outside. However, the range of which the string lights will play a factor in whether they can work where you live or not. Water- and dust-resistance ratings of IP65, IP67 or IP68 would be best, but IPX4 could work also. The first three will handle wet and dusty conditions better than the IPX4 as it is only rated for some light moisture. The other weather factor to consider is the temperature ranges. If you live in an area that gets to experience all four seasons, then you need to ensure the lights you buy can withstand the changes from freezing winters to blazing hot summers. But if you don't plan to keep the lights up during the more extreme times, then your lights will have fewer hurdles to contend with. Bulb and light style Like most other light bulbs, outdoor sting lights co ... Read full article.