Outdoor Motion Sensor Light – Top 12 Best Outdoor Motion Sensor Lights
Contents
- 1 Outdoor Motion Sensor Light – Top 12 Best Outdoor Motion Sensor Lights
- 2 Our Compilation of 12 Best Rated in Outdoor Motion Sensor Lighting & Security Lights – Editor’s Choice
- 2.1 #1 Aootek 182 Led Solar Outdoor Motion Sensor – Best Solar Pick
- 2.2 2# Aootek Hook Solar Lights With Lights Reflector – Best Waterproof Pick
- 2.3 3# Urpower Solar Lights Wireless Waterproof Motion Lights – Best Design
- 2.4 4# JJC LED Security Lights Outdoor Motion Sensor Light – Best Adjustable Pick
- 2.5 5# Amico 3 Head LED Security Motion Sensor Light – Best Bright Pick
- 2.6 6# Mr. Beams MB360 Wireless LED Motion Sensor Light
- 2.7 7# AmeriTop Solar Outdoor Lights 3 Adjustable Heads
- 2.8 8# LEPOWER LED Security Lights Outdoor Motion Sensor 3 Heads
- 2.9 9# Sezac Outdoor Solar Lights 6 Pack 3 Modes Motion Sensor Light
- 2.10 10# Amico 3 Head LED Security Outdoor Light Motion Sensor
- 2.11 11# Glorius-Lite LED Security Lights Outdoor Motion Sensor
- 2.12 12# Lutec Halogen Motion Sensor Light Dual Head
- 3 Pros and Cons of Motion Sensor Lights
Lighting your backyard is a very important and difficult task, and choosing the right light source is the first challenge you will encounter. Motion sensor light is one of the best solutions because, firstly, you get sufficiently powerful light sources, and secondly, they only work when you or someone from your family is nearby, thereby saving energy.
But you can’t immediately choose the best model that suits you, because there are many types of motion sensor light on the market today and even more specific models of such light. Luckily, we’ve done all the hard work for you, and researched hundreds of brands that make motion sensor light, picked the top 12 models, and put together a quick guide.
We tried to select the models so that they all have their unique type and all models are affordable even if you have a limited budget. And it seems to us that we have succeeded. Go down below and see what we’ve prepared for you.
What Is Outdoor Motion Sensor Light?
Motion sensor light is just a light source, just like a regular light bulb or lantern. They can be in the form of a bulb, street lamp, panel with LEDs, and so on. It also connects to the mains or runs on batteries.
But the main feature of light with a motion sensor is that they react to the environment and turn on only when some moving object enters their range. As soon as the sensor inside the light detects some movement, the relay inside the structure is triggered and the light turns on. More expensive sensors have not only an on/off function, but also a light power that the user can adjust. There are infrared, ultrasonic, and microwave lights.
Infrared Motion Sensor Lights. Lights with infrared sensors are the most popular and cheapest. They’re activated when the temperature in the control zone changes. Such sensors have a large capture angle, high accuracy of adjustment, and have safe radiation. But this type of sensor is the least on our list because they are used only for indoor lighting. It’s impossible to use them outdoors because sudden changes in temperature disable them.
Ultrasonic Motion Sensor Lights. This type of sensor works differently. They emit and receive waves of different wavelengths. Ultrasonic luminaires are versatile. They can be installed both at home and outdoors. But they also have disadvantages. The main one is the effect on animals that can detect ultrasonic radiation. Dogs especially suffer from this.
Microwave Motion Sensor Lights. Microwave sensors are the safest and most convenient. They work by distributing magnetic waves at a frequency of more than 5 GHz. Their plus is that they can work through walls, expensive lights have control panels included, and flexible adjustment. The minus is that most work only from the mains, and not on batteries. We’ve collected lights of each type for you so that you have more choice and you make a purchase based on your preferences and characteristics of the lights.
What Are Motion Sensor Lights For?
Many people inadvertently leave the lights on in the outdoor almost all night long. This entails additional energy costs. The main task for which motion sensor lights are needed is to save energy. For lights with a dimmer, it’s even possible to adjust the illumination power depending on the time of day.
The motion sensor light will solve your problem with unnecessary electricity costs, and these lights are very durable. Plus it keeps your outdoor safe. You won’t stumble over something while walking in the dark, but the lights will also warn you that some movement is taking place in your yard.
Our Compilation of 12 Best Rated in Outdoor Motion Sensor Lighting & Security Lights – Editor’s Choice
Now let’s take a look at 12 of the best lighting models available on the market today!
#1 Aootek 182 Led Solar Outdoor Motion Sensor – Best Solar Pick
This model can operate in three modes. In the first mode, the lights turn on if the motion sensor is triggered. They illuminate the area for 15 seconds and then fade out again. This function is convenient to use if you don’t want the light to work all night. If won’t fade. The model also has a universal function, in which a dim light shines all the time, and if the motion sensors are triggered, the rays become brighter.
Sensors are sensitive enough to detect people within a 26-foot radius. The overall view is 120 degrees. Besides, they’re very sensitive to small objects. For example, you may notice a dog or rabbit in the garden. Therefore, always think carefully about the place where you want to install the lights.
The solar panel has a 5% conversion rate. It’s made of monocrystalline silicon, which will provide you with long service life. Charging takes two hours. However, an unpleasant disadvantage for you maybe the location of solar panels that are directed straight up. But if you don’t live in a sunny region, it can take 4-5 hours to charge.
You can safely use this model in all weather conditions. The lamps are highly waterproof and heat resistant. The model is designed so that it can withstand extreme conditions, provide you with light outdoor at any time of the year.
2# Aootek Hook Solar Lights With Lights Reflector – Best Waterproof Pick
This model can operate in three modes too. In the first mode, the lights are triggered depending on the motion sensor. The lamps are instantly turned on for 15 seconds and if no further movement is detected, they are turned off.
Thus, with constant use, the lights can work for 4-5 hours without recharging. If you want to leave the lights on all night, use the constant mode. It provides 7-8 hours of operation without recharging. There’s also a smart mode that combines weak constant light and strong when motion is detected.
The sensor can detect people from a fairly long distance – 26 feet. If you move very slowly, you are likely to become visible only at 20-22 feet. The sensor’s viewing angle is 120 degrees. The lights are very bright. If you turn on the combined mode, the dim light will also be pleasant.
The battery is made of lithium and has a capacity of 2200 mA/h. Thanks to the material, the battery can last you for many years. It’s recharged during the day by solar panels, which are made of silicon. The light body is made of impact-resistant and water-resistant material, so it can withstand any weather conditions.
3# Urpower Solar Lights Wireless Waterproof Motion Lights – Best Design
This lamp differs from many others on the market in its design. This model can easily decorate the space near the house or light up the garden around the perimeter of the fence. The model is made of high-quality waterproof materials. It’ll work smoothly regardless of rain or snow.
This lamp doesn’t have super-sensitive sensors. They only respond to movement from 10 feet away. Therefore, we recommend installing this model not on the edge of your outdoor, but near the porch, path, or front door. The viewing angle of the motion sensors is 120 degrees.
Let’s talk about the power source – solar panels. Their life span is 5 years or 50,000 hours. A full charge on a sunny day will take you about 6 hours, and in cloudy weather, it’ll take 8-10 hours. When fully charged, the lamp can work for up to 12 hours, which is a good result compared to competitors.
The lamp can operate in only two modes. In the first, it works continuously throughout the night. In the second mode, the lamps turn on after the motion sensor is triggered. In other words, it’s not possible to turn on a dim light.
4# JJC LED Security Lights Outdoor Motion Sensor Light – Best Adjustable Pick
This model has heavy-duty motion sensors. Their overall viewing angle is 180 degrees, which is in many ways ahead of the competition. At the same time, the sensors will notice any movement at a distance of as much as 65 feet. If you don’t need the lights to be constantly lit by movements outside your outdoor, you can adjust the sensitivity from 20 to 65 feet.
You can also adjust the settings of the three modes that are available in this model. This’ll allow you to manually turn on and off the lights. In automatic mode, the light turns on when the motion sensors are triggered. At the same time, you can set the operating time of the lamps in the range from 5 seconds to 5 minutes. In D2D mode, the lights work all night and automatically turn off in the morning.
The lamps are bright enough. A special advantage is setting the glow range. With flexible light heads, you can change the direction of the light. JJC lights are waterproof and aren’t afraid of any weather conditions.
5# Amico 3 Head LED Security Motion Sensor Light – Best Bright Pick
This model is perfect for lighting big outdoors, equipment rooms, garages. It’s small in size and easy to install, following a few simple steps. The light will provide you with excellent brightness, but it’s quite energy-saving. The LEDs output 40 W, which provides 5000 K, which is comparable to daylight white light.
Motion sensors have a general viewing angle of 180 degrees and can sense movement at a distance of 49 feet. The motion sensors, like the lights themselves, are easily adjustable. You can direct them to the needed viewing angle by simply turning the mount head. The model can be used not only in closed rooms but also in open spaces. The robust construction protects the lamp from rain or snow.
This light works in three modes. Its motion sensors only work at night and the lamp doesn’t light up during the day. The first mode is 1 minute, the second mode is 5 minutes, and the third mode is 10 minutes. You can adjust the duration of the glow yourself.
6# Mr. Beams MB360 Wireless LED Motion Sensor Light
This sensor is battery-powered, so it doesn’t need to be wired. Nevertheless, it provides 350 square feet of light coverage. The led is very bright, but the power consumption is minimal only 140 lumens. So, the batteries can last for about a year.
The motion sensor isn’t super-sensitive and can only be triggered at a distance of 30 feet. To save battery power, the light turns off 30 seconds after the motion sensor stops detecting. Thanks to the adjustable head, you can illuminate any area you need. And you can easily move such a lamp to other places.
7# AmeriTop Solar Outdoor Lights 3 Adjustable Heads
This model is powered by solar panels. Thanks to this, you can simply install it without using unnecessary annoying wires. The lights can be used in any open space. With the help of screws, the device is easily fixed to the wall.
It’s charged for 5-6 hours in sunny weather or for 8-10 hours in cloudy weather. A fully charged battery can keep the lights running for 8 hours, i.e. all night. The battery is made of lithium. This material ensures its long-term operation.
The motion sensors have a standard sensitivity of 26 feet. The viewing angle is 120 degrees. Thanks to this, the device has 2 operating modes. In sensor mode, the lights turn on immediately when motion is detected and operate for 30 seconds. If you need light throughout the night, use the OFF Mode function.
This device is equipped with 128 bright led bulbs that produce 6500K and have good heat dissipation. Such indicators are more powerful than many competitors. You don’t have to worry about the light in all weather conditions. Waterproof IP65 withstands snow and rain of any power.
8# LEPOWER LED Security Lights Outdoor Motion Sensor 3 Heads
This model is powered by AC power and provides a super bright, but energy-saving glow. The power of the motion sensors is truly impressive. They can detect movement at a distance of 72 feet at 180 degrees of recognition. The settings are fully adjustable. If you don’t need such a powerful sensor, you can set smaller values, such as 40 or 50 feet.
The lights are triggered when the sensor detects movement. At the same time, you can choose the time during which the lamp won’t turn off. The range is wide, from 10 seconds to 10 minutes. The body is waterproof and made of metal so that the device works in all weather conditions. The service life is 50,000 hours.
9# Sezac Outdoor Solar Lights 6 Pack 3 Modes Motion Sensor Light
This solar-powered light has 3 modes. In the first mode, the light automatically turns on in the dark and shines throughout the night. In the second model, when there’s no movement, the lights shine dimly, but when the sensors are activated, a bright light turns on for 20 seconds. In the third mode, the dim light isn’t lit at night, but if there’s movement, the bright light will be on for 20 seconds.
The sensors aren’t very sensitive and can only detect movement at a distance of 10-16 feet. The 2000 mAh battery provides lamp operation for 4-8 hours (depending on the selected mode). This battery is charged throughout the day from solar panels. It takes 8-10 hours to fully recharge.
10# Amico 3 Head LED Security Outdoor Light Motion Sensor
It has 3 control modes. If you want the light to turn on only when you are driving, use the first mode. At the same time, you can choose the time for which the lights will turn on – 1 minute, 5 minutes, or 10 minutes. There’s also a second mode “from dusk to dawn” which automatically turns on and off, works throughout the night. The model also has a fully manual mode, in which you turn on and off the lamps at the right time.
Second, sensors detect movement at a distance of 49 feet. And the detection angle is 150 degrees. Third, this model has 3 LED units that output up to 5000K high brightness. However, due to high energy savings, you can save up to 90% of electricity. The sealed metal head is resistant to rust and fading. This allows the light to look new even after decades. This model also has a waterproof coating of IP65. The service life is 50,000 hours.
11# Glorius-Lite LED Security Lights Outdoor Motion Sensor
This light can provide up to 3000 lumens. It allows you to save up to 80% on electricity compared to a regular bulp. Due to the adjustable design with two heads, you can get the desired range of light.
This model has a super-powerful motion sensor. It can identify a person, car, or animal at a distance of 72 feet. There’s also a regulating function of the needed sensitivity. For example, if you install a light in the garage, we recommend using 20 feet, and if in the outdoor – 60-70 feet.
The sensor has a large detection angle of 180 degrees. You can also set the time for which the lamp will light up after the sensor is triggered (from 0 to 10 minutes). The lamp body is made of aluminum, which provides the body with the best heat dissipation for long-term use (50,000 hours)
12# Lutec Halogen Motion Sensor Light Dual Head
This model has quite powerful sensors that can be adjusted to your needs. For example, you can use the minimum values of 20 feet in an enclosed space, and the maximum values of 65 feet in an open space.
The model also has a detection angle of 180 degrees. You can choose the time you need (1 minute, 3 minutes, or 10 minutes) during which the light will be on after the motion sensor is activated. You can also manually set the time during which the light won’t turn off regardless of the sensor operation.
The adjustable light heads rotate 360 degrees to help you create the perfect light coverage area. This device operates on two 150 W halogen lamps, which aren’t included in the delivery package.
Pros and Cons of Motion Sensor Lights
The motion sensor lights are very convenient and help you pay fewer electricity bills and also provide safety. However, they have their drawbacks. Let’s take a look at all the positive and negative aspects of these devices.
Pros
- Lights with a motion sensor are primarily convenient for their practicality. They work in automatic mode, which means there is no need for manual control.
- Another advantage is the versatility of the lights. They can be equipped with almost any type of light element if they can. And if the model has its own elements, then they’re usually quite powerful, and you won’t need to change them for a long time.
- Manufacturers produce these devices in a large size range. Since they work periodically, they have a long service life. Lamps are often beautiful to look at and can decorate your yard.
- An alarm system can be connected to light with a motion sensor if it has this capability. That’ll help protect your yard from burglars or unwanted guests.
- But the main advantage is the economy of such lights. They save 50 to 90% of energy.
Cons
- The disadvantages include two features of these lights. Firstly, the sensor is unable to detect movement directed perpendicular to it.
- The second disadvantage is that for a room where people are constantly present, such a device is of little use.
What You Need To Know Before Installing Motion Sensor Light
All circuits used to connect a conventional motion sensor are suitable for connecting a lamp with a motion sensor. Three types of such schemes are most often used.
- The first type is a parallel connection of light with a switch. This method gives you the ability to turn on the light both when motion is detected in the monitored area, and with a switch manually.
- The second type is a series connection of light to a switch. In this case, the sensor lamp can only work if you turn on the switch.
- The third is a combined connection. Additional light turns on immediately after detecting movement in the coverage area. In this case, the position of the switch does not affect this in any way. The main light is activated after the switch is turned on.
How to Install Motion Sensor Light
You need to figure out what your light is powered by. If these are batteries, then everything is simple: just insert the batteries into the case (most often the battery compartment is on the back) and set the desired light mode.
If you bought a light with a wired connection, then follow the instructions below:
- First, you need to prepare the device for installation. The kit usually includes rubber seals. You need to insert them into the special openings for cable entry.
- Then the installation site must be de-energized and isolated from electricity. Otherwise, you risk getting an electric shock or short-circuiting the device.
- The power cable must be pulled into the body of the device. If the length is too long, the cable is shortened.
- The enclosure mounts to a wall or ceiling depending on the location you choose to mount.
- The braid is removed from the supply cable. If the body of the light is a dielectric, then you don
- t need grounding and you can use only two wires.
- The wires are connected to the corresponding terminals, they are mainly designated as L and H, but depending on the model they may differ.
- One terminal (usually L with a prime) remains unused. It is needed to connect additional lighting, alarms, ventilation, and other equipment.
The only limitation is the power consumed by the device. It should not exceed the value specified in the instructions. Also, consider additional loads from additional connected devices.
How Do I Choose Outdoor Motion Sensor Lights?
When choosing a motion sensor light, you need to consider the key factors that affect how high quality and durable your device will be.
Place. The first thing you need to choose is where you want to install the motion sensor. If it is a garage or small space, a two to three head transducer with a small transducer range, about 20-30 feet or more, is best. If you want to illuminate the porch, then it is best to take sensors that are well fixed on the wall or ceiling. To illuminate the entire courtyard, solar panel sensors are best suited and will charge throughout the day.
Wires. Think about how much you want to mess with the light setup. If you don’t want to set up the sensor and connect the wires for a long time, it’s better to take a battery-powered light. But then you have to take care of the constant battery replacement. It takes time and skill to connect the wires, but you never have to charge the battery.
Solar-powered light is also an excellent solution. You don’t need to change the battery as the light will change throughout the day. But this type of light has its drawbacks. For example, a very long charging time, if it is cloudy or raining outside and the inability to use it in enclosed spaces such as garages or sheds.
Water resistance. This is a very important point if you decide to install motion sensors on the street and the roof doesn’t protect them sufficiently from rain. If you haven’t bothered to buy a water-resistant sensor, then as soon as a good downpour passes, your light may burn out. To prevent this from happening, it’s best to take a model with a case that is protected from water and corrosion.
Another solution would be a homemade water shield. For example, you can nail a wide piece of plastic or aluminum over your light to help drip water droplets. This’ll prevent water from reaching the body of light and it’ll serve you for a long time.
Design. The importance of design depends on your personal preference and where the light is located. Some products are versatile and suitable for any interior. Some are made in the form of lamps and lanterns and are suitable for lighting a garden or pool. Here you choose what you like.
Summing Up
Motion sensor light is a very useful and economical device that you can install in your yard or garage. But choosing the best model that perfectly combines good design, durability, and strength is a difficult task. The best for us is the Aootek 182 Led Solar Outdoor Motion Sensor. We liked the runtime of this light, fast solar charging, powerful LEDs, and wide dimming. It has excellent value for money.
However, if you don’t like this model, you have 11 other great motion sensor lights on our list. Each of them has excellent performance and a rather attractive price. We hope you find this motion sensor light installation and selection guide helpful too. Thanks for reading us. Have a nice rest!
