addlon Solar String Lights G40 with Remote,Solar Powered
✅ PROS
- True G40 bulb size (1.5 inch " diameter) with warm 2700K glow that actually looks like vintage Edison bulbs, not cheap LED pinpricks
- Remote control actually works up to 15-20 feet and includes 8 lighting modes plus a timer — not a gimmick
- Monocrystalline solar panel with 1500mAh battery holds charge for 8-10 hours even on overcast days, per buyer reports
❌ CONS
- Battery is non-replaceable — when it dies in 2-3 years, you're replacing the whole string
- Plastic bulb shells feel thin; several buyers reported cracking if overtightened during installation
- Remote requires line-of-sight to the control box; doesn't work through walls or thick foliage
The Verdict
Bottom line up front: The addlon G40 solar string lights deliver the warm, ambient glow you want for a patio or pergola without running extension cords. At 4.5 stars from 225 ratings, they’re solidly above average for this crowded category. But “solar string lights” is a category full of junk — so let’s talk about whether this specific set is the one worth your money.
What you actually get
The box contains one 27-foot string with 18 G40 bulbs spaced roughly 18 inches apart, the solar panel with a 10-foot cord, ground stakes, zip ties, and the remote control. The bulbs are true G40 size — 1.5 inches in diameter — which matters because many cheaper sets advertise “G40” but ship 0.8-inch bulbs that look like Christmas lights on a patio.
The solar panel is a 2-watt monocrystalline unit, which is the good kind. Polycrystalline panels (what most budget sets use) lose efficiency in heat and shade. The 1500mAh battery pack is sealed into the control box.
Performance in the real world
The 2700K warm white output is genuinely pleasant — dim enough to feel ambient, bright enough to illuminate a 10x10 seating area. One buyer noted: “These cast the same warm light as my old incandescent patio lights, but without the $20/month electric bill.” That’s the honest appeal here.
The remote controls 8 modes — steady, fading, chasing, and various flash settings. The timer function (2/4/6/8 hours) is the feature you’ll actually use daily. Set it once, and the lights click on at dusk and off before you go to bed.
Battery life is where solar strings typically fail, and addlon does better than most. On full sun, buyers report 8-10 hours of runtime. On overcast days, expect 5-6. That’s workable, but if you live in the Pacific Northwest or another low-sun region, you’ll want to position the panel aggressively south-facing.
What buyers consistently praise
Across the 225 ratings, three themes dominate:
- Ease of installation — The panel stakes into the ground, the string hangs with included clips, and you’re done in 15 minutes. No electrician, no wiring.
- The warm light quality — Multiple reviewers compared it favorably to café or string-light-bar atmospheres.
- Remote reliability — Unlike many budget remotes that require you to stand three feet away, this one works across a typical backyard deck.
Where it falls short
The non-replaceable battery is the elephant in the room. Solar panels degrade slowly, but the battery is the first thing to fail — usually in 2-3 seasons. When that happens, the entire string is e-waste. That’s a real sustainability and cost concern.
The plastic bulb shells are thin. One reviewer wrote: “I cracked two bulbs just hand-tightening them into the sockets. They’re decorative, not durable.” Be gentle during assembly.
Also, the remote needs direct line-of-sight to the control box. If your panel is mounted on a roof or behind a bush, the remote becomes useless. Plan your panel placement accordingly.
Who should buy this
Buy it if: You want affordable, warm-toned patio lighting without wiring, you have a sunny spot for the panel, and you don’t mind replacing the set in a few years.
Skip it if: You need lights for a fully shaded area (this won’t charge), you want bulbs that survive being manhandled, or you’re looking for a permanent, long-term installation — hardwired or plug-in lights will outlast these significantly.
FAQ
Q: Can these stay out in winter? A: The IP65 rating handles rain and snow, but the plastic gets brittle below freezing. Bring them inside if you live somewhere with sustained sub-zero temps.
Q: How long does the remote range actually last? A: 15-20 feet in open air with direct line-of-sight. Behind glass or walls? Forget it.
Q: Do they work on cloudy days? A: Yes, but runtime drops to 4-6 hours. The monocrystalline panel helps, but it’s not magic — they need sun to perform.
The Verdict
Rating: 4.6/5
These aren’t the last string lights you’ll ever buy, but they’re arguably the best value in the solar category right now. The light quality punches above the price point, the remote is genuinely functional, and setup is genuinely foolproof. Accept the 3-year lifespan and the fragile bulbs, and you’ll be happy.
Buy it if you want great-looking patio lighting with zero wiring and a functional remote. Skip it if you need year-round durability or have a shaded installation spot. For most backyard setups, this is a smart, honest purchase.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.