Litom Original Solar Lights Outdoor Gives A 270-Degree Glow

We purchased the Litom Original Solar Lights Outdoor so our writer could put it to the test. Keep reading for our full product review.

My husband and I recently finished the backyard landscaping at our new home and were in the market for an outdoor lighting solution. As a multi-purpose product with three modes and a weatherproof design, the Litom Original Solar Light seemed like a good option.

Out of the box, I was impressed with the compact, discrete design. Measuring roughly 6 x 4 x 2 inches, this light has a rectangular base and extends out into a shallow prism shape. It comes with easy-to-follow instructions, plus a screw and anchor for installation.

As its name suggests, the Litom Solar Light charges in the sun. On a brightly lit day, it takes seven to eight hours to charge fully. This light is the first solar-powered product I've owned, and I'm unsure why I didn't get on the bandwagon sooner. Aside from the energy-saving benefits, I like that I didn't have to hardwire it and will never change a battery.

The switch on the back allows you to flip it to one of three modes. On mode 1, the light will turn on with continuous medium brightness for four to six hours when it gets dark. Mode 2 offers constant dim illumination at night, and when motion is detected, the light will get bright for 17 to 20 seconds, then go back to dim. With mode 3, the light stays off at night unless movement is detected, in which case a bright light will turn on for 17 to 20 seconds.

The description of the three modes was clear enough, but we wanted to see exactly how bright or dim the light was before choosing one. (Since the switch is on the back, it's best to select a setting before installation since you have to take it down to change it.)

We let it charge in bright sunlight for a few hours, then brought it inside our walk-in pantry and turned the lights off. We liked the continuous illumination from mode 1, and mode 2 was OK. We decided we wanted something that would stay on, so mode 3 was out.

Since the motion sensor is pretty sensitive, we went with mode 1, so it wouldn't flash at us (or our neighbors) through the night. Plus, we decided to install it on the fence overlooking our backyard and figured we'd used it more for a light source than security.

Once we chose the mode, we easily installed the light. We attached it to solid wood and didn't need the plastic anchor. It screwed in without a fuss. After installation, we had a few more hours before sundown, which gave the light plenty of time to charge from the sun's rays fully.

The light doesn't turn on until it's completely dark outside. So, an hour or so after sunset, it illuminated our backyard with its 24 LEDs. The Litom is an excellent complement to our existing patio light, though I wish it produced warm white lighting instead of cool white. Cool white lights are suitable for security, but if it's continuously on, a warmer glow has a better ambiance.

The Litom delivers a 270-degree range of light, meaning it shines out to the sides and straight down. I'm glad it doesn't shine upwards because it would go right into our neighbor's yard. (Our neighborhood is notably hilly, so each lot has a different elevation, and the house behind us towers over ours.)

Living in the Pacific Northwest, I appreciate the weatherproof design. Made of solid thermoplastic, the Litom stands up to rain, snow, hail, and scorching hot heat. This durable LED light fixture is supposed to last for over 30,000 hours—that's about 13 years with six hours of illumination a day.

Considering the easy-to-use, eco-friendly, all-weather design and multiple light modes, I'd consider buying another Litom Original Solar Light and would recommend it to a friend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easy to install?

Since it doesn't need to be wired or plugged in, this outdoor light fixture is easy to install. It comes with a screw and an anchor. All you need is a screwdriver.

Does this outdoor light work as described?

The Litom Original Solar Light does what it says it does. It charges in the sun, turns on when it's supposed to, and works as a motion-sensing security light or a regular outdoor light fixture.

How long does it take to charge in the sun?

In bright, direct sunlight, the light absorbs a full charge in seven to eight hours.

How bright is the light?

The brightness depends on the mode. Mode 1 offers continuous medium brightness. Mode 2 delivers continuous dim lighting with intense illumination when it senses motion. Mode 3 only provides strong illumination only when it detects movement. In all instances, you'll get a 270-degree range of light, meaning it shines down and on both sides. Its LEDs use about 3.7 volts of energy, illuminating at about 8 watts of output.

Does the motion sensor work?

The Litom Original Solar Light uses passive infrared sensors (PIRs) to detect the subtle changes in body temperature caused by human movement. It picks up motion at a 120-degree angle from as far as 26 feet away. For anyone who spends a lot of time in their yard or has pets or close neighbors, the sensor component might be a little too sensitive.

How long does the light stay on?

With a full charge on mode 1 or 2, you can expect four to six hours of light at night. When motion is detected on modes 2 and 3, a bright light will shine for about 20 seconds.

Is it weatherproof?

The Litom Outdoor Solar Light has an IP65 waterproof rating, meaning it holds up in heavy rain and can withstand splashing from all angles. It can endure snow, hail, and super hot sunlight too.

Is it worth the money?

Considering it's effective, sun-powered, and has an all-weather design and budget-friendly price tag, the Litom Original Solar Light is worth every penny.

Litom Original Solar Lights Outdoor vs. Leonlite LED Security Lights Motion Sensor Flood Light Outdoor

The Leonlite LED Security Lights Motion Sensor Flood Light Outdoor motion sensor has a 180-degree range, meanwhile, the Litom has a smaller motion-sensing range of 120-degrees. The Leonlite has more settings, allowing you to decide how sensitive the light is to motion and how long the light stays on when it's triggered. The Litom is easier to install and maintain since it doesn't require hardwiring or expenditure of your energy (other than the power of the sun). The Leonlite is about twice the cost of the Litom and is about twice as bright. It also uses LED bulbs, and they both have the same IP65 waterproof rating.