What’s So Trendy About The Top 10 Best Solar Lanterns

How We Reviewed

The following products were reviewed based on the following parameters: features, price, where to buy, and warranty.

In compiling our list, we considered specific factors that we thought would be most important to the consumer—factors such as design, charging mode, performance, portability, durability, power reserve, utility features, and availability. 

In addition to this, our panel of reviewers painstakingly reviewed dozens of solar lanterns and evaluated each in terms of industry standards in order to bring you the best, most comprehensive list of solar lanterns so that you may make the best selection for your needs.

What We Reviewed

SolarGlow Solar Garden Lights

Features

We are kicking off this review with perhaps one of the most unique lanterns on the market and on this list. The MPOWERD Luci outdoor solar light is inflatable—yes, inflatable… it floats!

This is a great little lantern if you are in proximity to water for camping, hiking, fishing, boating, or any other water sports. This water-resistant and totally submergible (ip67 rating) lamp is very durable and is completely powered by the sun (no other power sources are included in this model).

Its construction allows for compact storage as it is collapsible and lightweight—perfect for space saving with camping gear. This unit features an adjustable strap at the top making clipping to camping gear, hanging in a tent, or using as a string of lights for a campsite (or wherever you may need lighting) a breeze.

This clear and visually unintrusive light contains 10 LEDs and shines in 4 modes; low, bright, super bright, and 1 second SOS flashing. If you are looking for a lightweight, waterproof, and compact lantern, this is a great choice.

Folding Clover Solar LED 100 Lumen Camping Lantern

Features

Another uniquely shaped lantern that made it on our list is the Folding Clover Solar LED 100 Lumen Camping Lantern. If you are looking for a lighting source with the ability to morph and fit into several tight spaces and yet be able to produce light for larger areas, this may be the lamp you are looking for.

This lantern’s unique three-pronged shape allows for it to function in the tiniest spaces and open up to illuminate wider spaces when necessary. When in use it has a permanently attached folding hook proving convenient for hanging in any space, such as porches, sheds, camping tents, carports, and anywhere electric plugs may be scarce.

When closed, this lantern is only 6 inches in length, folds completely flat, and packs away into your gear conserving much-needed space. Its fold-away hanging hook is also very convenient. The lamp itself is in a modern black and orange color combination making the lantern conveniently visible in an outdoor setting.

This lamp has three settings: high, low, or blinking SOS mode. It also comes with two energy sources: the solar option and a micro USB port which allows for full charges within 3.5 hours. Given these features, this is surely a lantern worth looking into.

EACHPOLE |3-Pack| Outdoor Camping LED Lantern

Features

The EACHPOLE (3 Pack) Outdoor Camping LED lantern is the first lantern with a classic style to make our list. Donning a typical canister lantern shape, these lights are also collapsible.

This serves as an on/off switch when the lantern is not in use as well as a very convenient way to pack it into your gear. Made of sturdy construction, the metal handles fold for space saving storage but also double as a convenient way to string these lanterns when broader lighting is required.

This lantern has three distinct energy sources: solar power, battery power (requiring 3-1.5V AA batteries), and a DC charging cable. It also has a built-in USB port allowing you to charge other devices such as your cell phone (though iPhones are NOT compatible).

Each lamp contains 6 LEDs that illuminate at 360 degrees. The combination of style and practicality landed the EACHPOLE 3 Pack LED lanterns on our list and are sure not to disappoint.

This lamp has three settings: high, low, or blinking SOS mode. It also comes with two energy sources: the solar option and a micro USB port which allows for full charges within 3.5 hours. Given these features, this is surely a lantern worth looking into.

Kizen Solar Powered LED Camping Lantern

Features

The Kizen Solar Powered LED Camping Lantern is one of the most lightweight and compact lanterns on our list. When folded down, it is approximately the size of a hockey puck and can easily fit in your pocket.

But do not let the petite size fool you in terms of power and utility as this lantern in a compressed state can act as a flashlight or open up into a full sized stand-alone lamp. It maintains a stylish black and cobalt blue casing with an opaque collapsible shade.

The lamp has 3 modes of operation: high, low, and SOS blinking for emergencies. This lamp also can be charged in two ways; solar energy and USB port. It can also be used to charge your cellular device in an emergency.

Another great safety feature included in the construction of this lamp includes a fail-safe measure installed so that overcharging cannot occur and thus, the inner circuits are protected from overload when charging.

The diverse utility and clever construction of this lantern alone earn it a spot on our top ten list.

TANSOREN Portable LED Camping Lantern

Features

Another classically styled canister lantern that made our list is the TANSOREN Portable LED Camping Lantern. Constructed of rugged, rust-proof polymer and metal materials, this light comes in a fashionable (and easily spotted) fire-engine red color.

The metal arms double as an easy way to hang your lamp and conveniently fold it away when packed or when in a freestanding position. This lantern has multiple inputs of energy, including solar, ability to connect to an external solar panel, built-in rechargeable batteries, a 5V DC USB charging, or regular (3) AA batteries.

The USB port also serves as a charging station for your cell phone or mobile device (excluding Apple products). Each full charge will provide you with 8 hours of lighting. This canister lantern is also collapsible which serves as the on/off function. When on (open) the lantern emits 360-degree lighting. The light may also be partially opened to adjust brightness.

The construction of the lamp itself is of high military grade materials preventing rust and allowing for rugged environments including bad weather. If you are anticipating rough environmental usage and looking for a lamp with several options for charging and an affordable price, then this just might be the perfect lantern for you.

Bigfoot Outdoor Products Compact Solar Camping Lantern

Features

Another very compact choice that made it on our list is the Bigfoot Outdoor Products Compact Solar Camping Lantern. This lantern comes in tasteful green and black casing with an opaque shade for producing a soft light.

This lantern also folds down to a convenient, space saving size (close to the size of a hockey puck and easily fitting into your pocket). It allows for 3 modes of lighting: high, low, and SOS blinking. It comes with two charging options: solar and USB connection.

What is particularly unique for this lantern relative to its compact size is its capacity to charge and operate one full charge—a whopping 10 hours! This is one of the longest battery capacities in this class of lantern.

The charging abilities and longevity are what pushed it over the top and made it a contender on our top ten list. If you require a longer charge and usage time along with an extremely compact design, then this is a great choice for you.

SUAOKI LED Camping Lantern

Features

Similar to other extremely compact models on this list, the SUAOKI LED Camping Lantern also folds up compactly and can literally fit into your pocket for extreme convenience.

Coming in a trendy green and black casing with an opaque shade for soft lighting, like most lanterns, two energy sources are available: solar and USB. Likewise, this lantern is capable of charging your cell or tablet.

It also has the ability to operate in three lighting modes” high, low, and SOS blinking mode. This lantern is safe to use as it contains an automatic cut-off for preventing overcharging and shorting circuits.

The SUAOKI lantern holds two distinct features compared to similar models; a fold-away handle makes this model type even more convenient, and it has the additional features of being water-resistant and extremely compact.

This allows the user to have this lantern in their pocket while being submerged in water. Swimming, fishing, canoeing, and kayaking are all no problem with this lantern. This combination of features with its unique ability to follow you into any water situation was reason enough for us to place the SUAOKI LED Camping Lantern of our list of favorites.

SlowTech Portable Battery Powered Rechargeable LED Lantern

Features

The USB and Solar Panel Rechargable LED Lantern Tent Light Bulb is the only lantern on this list that mimics the shape of an actual traditional indoor light bulb. With its yellow and black polymer casing, this cleverly designed bulb lantern can replace an indoor light bulb and hardly be noticed as a solar light!

It manages to maintain an indoor appearance but has all the qualities of an outdoor light. This light comes with two charging methods: a USB port and a detachable solar panel that can be positioned for optimal exposure to the sun.

It comes with a rechargeable battery, a charging cable, and a practical travel bag. If you require an indoor light in a space that does not have wired electricity, such as a shed or outdoor workspace, then this bulb lantern can certainly prove handy

Trail Watcher 2-in-1 Rechargeable Solar Camping Lantern and Emergency Flashlight

Features

Several of our choices on this list maintained the traditional canister shape associated with lanterns. The Trail Watcher 2-in-1 Rechargeable Solar Camping Lantern does the same.

What makes this lantern unique, however, is its ability to go from a classically shaped lantern into a bright practical flashlight in one convenient step. This is particularly useful when an emergency occurs and you may need a stand-alone lantern for broader lighting and need to convert that lighting into a flashlight to walk around.

This is exactly where the Trail Watcher shines (pun intended!). In addition to this unique and easy transition, other notable features include an impressive 30 LED count with a capacity to illuminate for 12 hours. 

The lantern comes with two charging options: solar and plug. Foldable metal arms allow for easy suspension while the lightweight and attractive black polymer frame allows for easy carrying and packing.

Though this light is versatile, for someone looking for a practical lantern during times of emergencies that can easily double for a flashlight, The Trail Watcher Camping Lantern will not disappoint.

AGPTEK Solar Lantern

Features

Is it possible we have saved the best for last? Some would be hard pressed to argue against that when considering the amazing features included in the AGPTEK Solar Lantern.

This lantern comes with a whopping five charging methods: solar, car adapter, AC adapter, 3 AA batteries, and a hand crank! You need never be concerned about how you will power this lantern and will be sure you’ll lighting when you need it.

The technology is also top notch as the built-in silicon solar panels produce a brighter light while typically using less energy. The lantern has two modes: bright and super bright. The lantern is capable of charging other devices such as cell phones and tablets.

Though this model reaches the top of our pricing scale, you must admit, for a guarantee of power and lighting, this unit is a bargain!

Solar Lanterns FAQ

What Are Solar Lanterns?

A solar lantern, also known as a solar light or solar lamp, is an LED lamp connected to a solar panel, battery, inverter, and charge controller. The solar lantern comes in a range of shapes and sizes, and each lamp, depending on its available features, can even have alternative and back–up power sources.

Aesthetically, there are two different type of solar lanterns; camping/outdoor sport lamps and decorative lamps. Though each type holds similar energy capabilities, they are very distinct in functions.

Camping lanterns are typically portable and designed with convenience and durability in mind while decorative lanterns are created with beautifying an area as a priority. Since both types are very distinct, this top ten list of best solar lanterns focuses on the former group; camping and outdoor use.

We felt it would not be appropriate to compare lamps with such different purposes in one list.

How Do Solar Lanterns Work?

Solar lanterns operate very much in the same way as solar panels used in housing and commercial properties. Direct current is mined from the sun by a solar cell. This is what you see as the dark panel that is either a physical part of your lantern or separately attached to your lantern as a panel.

This panel is coated with special silicon layers. These layers allow direct current (DC) to be mined from the sun by the solar panel.The inverter transitions the energy into usable energy. This energy is stored in the battery until needed. This is the basic process through which solar energy is used and one can clearly see this form of energy is clean, green, and economical.

Why Would I Need a Solar Lantern?

Solar lanterns are most typically used by camping and outdoor enthusiasts looking for an outdoor lighting source where otherwise, due to the lack of available electric outlets, lighting would not be possible.

Though this is the most popular and obvious use of solar lanterns, it is by no means the only use. Solar lanterns are great for emergencies when power outages occur, lighting difficult spaces where electrical cords are impractical (such as automotive work), crawl spaces, or underneath cabinetry.

Also, because some lanterns have alternative energy sources, they can be an excellent addition to an emergency car kit, RV kit, or boating kit in the event of a breakdown or emergency. These are just some practical uses for solar lanterns, though the list of potential uses is practically endless!

Are Solar Lanterns Reliable?

Solar energy has been in use for decades and the technology continues to improve by the minute. For example, many solar lanterns now have a more extended life in their battery reserves. Where battery capacity used to last an hour or two, they now have the ability to run for upwards of 18 hours without a recharge.

If you live in a sunny climate, then your lantern should work fine. If not, do not hesitate in investing in solar energy as lanterns do not require constant exposure to a strong sun to charge. Your lantern will be fully charged in a matter of a few hours of moderate sunlight.

Additionally, many lanterns come with two or more ways to charge up your battery reserves, such as USB plugs, standard plugs, AC adapters, and even an alternative source such as regular alkaline battery back-up and hand crank options.

So even if you are concerned that your location might not be ideal in terms of climate, rest assured that your lantern will not need an excessive amount of sun to charge fully.

Your solar battery will retain its charge, and you most likely will have a back-up power source for your lantern if you need it depending on the features that come with the lantern of your choosing.

Do Solar Lanterns Perform Any Other Functions Besides Lighting?

Yes! Solar lanterns are not just for lighting. Since they have the capacity to collect energy and store it, many of these lanterns can be used as an alternative energy source. Often these lanterns come equipped with USB ports that you can use as a charging port for a cellular phone/mobile device.

This is a very convenient (and potentially lifesaving) feature. This is especially true in an emergency situation where a power outage occurs or if you are in a remote location and require assistance. Besides being stylish and convenient, these lanterns are essential to any emergency kit for this reason.

Overall Price Range

One of the best aspects of considering purchasing a solar lantern involves the price. Here, our list is compiled of some of the finest solar lanterns on the market. These lanterns have a wide variety of features and hence a wide range of pricing.

Regardless of what features you require for your new lantern, the following lights are extremely affordable.

here are no future expenses for batteries, including electrical plug costs (whether it be purchasing the electric or having to perform expensive electrical plug installation to operate the lamps).

It can be easily deduced that solar lanterns pay for themselves over time and can save you a great deal of money in upfront costs. This is especially true since lanterns with similar features and qualities that are not solar (such as solely battery operated lanterns) sell for similar if not higher prices yet do not offer the portability and convenience solar lanterns offer.

The reason for differing prices of solar lanterns is mostly found in their construction and their features. If you are in need of a more durable lantern because you will be using it in harsher environments, then perhaps a pricier model constructed of military grade materials would serve your needs.

Alternatively, if you require a lamp that maintains a range of features, such as alternative energy sources due to lower levels of sunlight or longer hours of usage, or you wish for your lantern to serve as an energy bank (say providing your other devices with power such as a cell phone) then again, these would be the pricier items on the list.

Whichever features you are looking for in a lantern, rest assured you will be able to find what you are looking for on this list. You certainly cannot beat these prices for the utility you get in return.

The Verdict

After carefully examining a wide selection of solar lanterns and evaluating them on industry features such as appearance, durability, utility (both in practical terms as well as in emergency situations), and after taking into consideration pricing and availability, we came to the decision that there is a lantern available for all of your needs and in fact the best choice for you is a personal one.

Using the information in our list, we hope we have aided you in identifying which choice is right for you. In terms of pricing, all the solar lanterns here are within a $15 range (from $10-$25) and consequently, all are affordable and price should not influence your decision. Utility and purpose, however, differ greatly.

If you require a compact lantern which is waterproof, perhaps you should look into the MPOWERD Luci inflatable floating lantern or the SUAOKI LED Camping Lantern. For those of you interested in a more classic canister style lantern, you should consider TANSOREN Portable LED Camping Lantern or the TRAIL WATCHER’s lantern and flashlight combo.

Of course, if you are interested in securing the ultimate power source guarantee, you can look into purchasing the 5-way energy sourced AGPTEK Solar Lantern.

And finally, if you have more specific needs, such as the scope of lighting or other specific requirements, you can consider the uniquely designed Folding Clover Solar LED, the EACHPOLE 3 Pack, or the USB Tent Light Bulb lantern or any one of the other lanterns mentioned here for their unique construction.

Regardless of which you choose, we are sure you will not be disappointed if your choice is found on this list!