Finding the right outdoor lighting can be tricky, especially if your yard has shady spots. That’s where the best solar light with separate panel shines. Unlike all-in-one units, these lights have a solar panel connected by a cable. This lets you place the panel in full sun for optimal charging while mounting the light itself wherever you need it, like under a porch roof or deep in your garden. This roundup cuts through the clutter to bring you the top performers in durability, brightness, and smart features, all tested and reviewed to light up your space efficiently.
In This Article
- 1 Quick Product Comparison
- 2 Our Top 10 Best Solar Light With Separate Panel Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
- 2.1 1. Deepn Solar Street Light: 12000W Commercial Security Light with Motion Sensor and IP67 Waterproofing
- 2.2 2. Deepn 8700W Solar Flood Light with Motion Sensor and Dusk-to-Dawn IP67 Outdoor Lighting
- 2.3 3. Deepn Solar Security Lights with Remote Control, IP66 Waterproof Dusk to Dawn Flood Light
- 2.4 4. 2500LM 3-Head Solar Area Lights with Motion Sensor, 270° Wide Angle and IP65 Waterproofing
- 2.5 5. CLAONER 3500LM 4-Head Solar Flood Light with Remote Control, IP67 Waterproof and 16.4ft Cable
- 2.6 6. T-SUNUS Solar Garden Spot Lights with Separate Solar Panel, IP65 Waterproof and 9.8ft Cable
- 2.7 7. T-SUN 4-in-1 Solar Landscape Spot Lights with Separate 5W Panel for Outdoor Auto On/Off Use
- 2.8 8. 2 Pack Solar Porch Lights with Separate Panel and Replaceable Battery, Dusk to Dawn Motion Sensor
- 2.9 9. 172LED Solar Lights for Outside with 3 Modes, Split Motion Sensor, Remote Control and IP65 Rating
- 2.10 10. Philips 3600LM Solar Security Light with Separate Panel, PIR Motion Sensor and 16ft Dimmable Cable
- 3 Complete Buying Guide for Best Solar Light With Separate Panel
- 4 Frequently Asked Questions
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Solar Light With Separate Panel Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Deepn Solar Street Light: 12000W Commercial Security Light with Motion Sensor and IP67 Waterproofing
This commercial-grade solar street light is a powerhouse designed for large areas like driveways, parking lots, and backyards. Its heavy-duty alloy construction and focused beam technology deliver exceptional, long-range brightness that outperforms standard models. With its smart dual-panel design and multiple control modes, it’s our top pick for reliable, high-performance lighting.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Premium aluminum housing and advanced LED lenses for 30% brighter light.
✓ Smart auto on/off with adjustable (0-180°) dual solar panels for optimal sun capture.
✓ 4-mode remote control with motion sensor for customized security and efficiency.
✓ IP67 waterproof rating for all-weather durability.
Why We Recommend It
This light simply works. The build quality feels industrial, and the separate panel design gives you total flexibility. The light is incredibly bright and the motion sensor is very responsive, making it perfect for both security and everyday illumination.
Best For
Homeowners with large properties, commercial security lighting, and anyone needing a dependable, ultra-bright solar light with a separate panel.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely bright and long-lasting illumination.
- Very durable, all-metal waterproof construction.
- Flexible installation with adjustable panels.
- Multiple smart modes via remote control.
Cons:
- Higher price point, reflecting its commercial quality.
- Can be heavier and bulkier than residential lights.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Best solar light ever!! Bright and turns on at dark. Love it.”
Customer Review: “Easy to install and provides fantastic light coverage for my driveway. Very impressed with the build.”
2. Deepn 8700W Solar Flood Light with Motion Sensor and Dusk-to-Dawn IP67 Outdoor Lighting
If you need a brilliant, reliable flood light that won’t quit before dawn, this is a standout choice. It pairs high-efficiency LED beads with a large-capacity battery for consistent, powerful light all night long. The three intelligent modes offer the perfect balance of security and energy savings.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 750 high-efficiency SMD LEDs for bright, long-lasting light with low decay.
✓ 6V large-capacity battery for extended runtime, even in winter.
✓ 3 smart modes: Motion Sensor, Timer, and Dusk-to-Dawn.
✓ IP67 waterproof rating for complete weather resistance.
Why We Recommend It
We love the battery performance. It consistently provides power through the night, which is a common pain point with other solar lights. The light output is very impressive for its size, and the separate panel makes installation a breeze.
Best For
Lighting up backyards, side yards, or workshops where you need dependable, all-night illumination from a quality solar flood light.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent battery life that lasts from dusk until morning.
- Very bright and even light spread.
- Versatile smart modes for different needs.
- Robust, waterproof build.
Cons:
- The mounting bracket could be sturdier for such a bright light.
- Some users report the remote control range is limited.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “These solar street lights are awesome. The large capacity battery ensures solid power supply throughout the night. Even now with the longer nights there is still 20 to 40% of charge left in the morning…”
Customer Review: “Purchased three of these solar lights a year ago. Very impressed with how well they work. They are bright enough for us to entertain out in the garden in the evening. Would buy again.”
3. Deepn Solar Security Lights with Remote Control, IP66 Waterproof Dusk to Dawn Flood Light
This model delivers tremendous value, packing high lumens and smart features at a very friendly price. It’s an 18,000-lumen beast that’s 30% brighter than many standard lights, making it perfect for deterring intruders while keeping your electricity bill at zero.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 330 high-density LEDs delivering 18,000 lumens for superior brightness.
✓ 3 smart lighting modes, including an energy-saving motion-sensing mode.
✓ Completely solar-powered, eliminating electricity costs.
✓ IP66 waterproof rating for reliable outdoor use.
Why We Recommend It
For the price, the light output is phenomenal. It feels like getting a premium feature set without the premium cost. It’s easy to set up and performs reliably, making it the best budget solar security light with separate panel in our lineup.
Best For
Security-conscious buyers on a budget, lighting up dark alleyways, garages, or large sheds effectively.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Incredible brightness for the cost.
- Great energy-saving motion sensor mode.
- Simple installation and setup.
- Solid waterproof construction.
Cons:
- The remote control feels a bit cheap.
- Charging time can be longer on cloudy days.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Light works great! Charge with automatic sensor activation lasts through morning. Easy to install. The remote is a little flimsy but in reality once you set the light to automated sensor mode you won’t be using the remote…”
Customer Review: “For the money, this light can’t be beat. It lights up my entire backyard. The separate panel let me put it in the perfect sunny spot.”
4. 2500LM 3-Head Solar Area Lights with Motion Sensor, 270° Wide Angle and IP65 Waterproofing
This versatile light uses three adjustable heads to cast light over a wide area, perfect for illuminating pathways, patios, or garden beds. The independent 270° adjustability of the heads and the panel gives you precise control over where the light goes.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 3 multi-mode selections (Motion Sensor, All Night, or Off).
✓ 3 adjustable heads and a 90° adjustable panel for perfect positioning.
✓ Super bright LEDs made with 99.99% pure gold wires for better conductivity.
✓ IP65 waterproof rating for outdoor durability.
Why We Recommend It
The flexibility is its biggest strength. You can aim each head in a different direction to cover multiple angles, making it a great area light. It’s surprisingly bright for its compact size and offers solid performance for general landscape lighting.
Best For
Lighting up walkways, deck perimeters, garden features, or small patios where wide, multi-directional light is needed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent coverage with three adjustable heads.
- Compact and discreet design.
- Good value for multi-head functionality.
- Easy to mount and adjust.
Cons:
- Not as intensely bright as a single floodlight head.
- The plastic construction feels lighter than metal-bodied lights.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “After looking at many lights… I chose this one… This light folds up into a surprisingly small package but unfolds to light up a nice area. Very happy with the purchase.”
Customer Review: “I ordered this solar powered security light to provide some illumination on our back deck… This light folds up compactly and is quite bright. Works well for my needs.”
5. CLAONER 3500LM 4-Head Solar Flood Light with Remote Control, IP67 Waterproof and 16.4ft Cable
Take adjustability to the next level with this four-headed solar champ. Each head can be positioned independently, and it comes with a large solar panel and a long cable for maximum installation freedom. The 350° PIR sensor is exceptionally wide.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4 independently adjustable heads for ultimate lighting control.
✓ Large solar panel (2x size of some competitors) for faster charging.
✓ Enhanced PIR motion sensor with a 350° wide illumination angle.
✓ IP67 waterproof rating and a long 16.4ft cable.
Why We Recommend It
If you need to light up a complex area with obstacles, this is your tool. You can point each head at a different shed, tree, or corner. The large panel ensures it gets a good charge, and the long cable offers fantastic placement options for the separate solar panel.
Best For
Complex spaces like multi-faceted building exteriors, large gardens with multiple features, or workshops needing light from several angles.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unmatched flexibility with four adjustable heads.
- Large, efficient solar panel.
- Very wide motion sensor range.
- Long cable provides great installation flexibility.
Cons:
- Setup takes a bit longer due to multiple heads.
- The design can look a bit bulky to some.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Very pleased with the quality of light… The installation was a breeze. Being able to put the brackets in place and then snapping in the lights and solar panel made life much easier.”
Customer Review: “Packaged well. On time. Works well. Bright enough but not overly bright. Easy to install.”
6. T-SUNUS Solar Garden Spot Lights with Separate Solar Panel, IP65 Waterproof and 9.8ft Cable
These are perfect for accent lighting. They are smaller, discreet spotlights designed to highlight garden features, trees, or pathways with a gentle wash of light. The separate panel and two brightness modes offer great control.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Efficient poly-crystalline solar panel for reliable charging.
✓ 2 lighting modes (High/Low) with automatic dusk-to-dawn operation.
✓ Two installation options: stake into the ground or mount on a wall.
✓ IP65 waterproof rating for outdoor safety.
Why We Recommend It
They are thoughtfully designed for landscaping. The light is focused and bright for its size, and the ability to choose between a stake or wall mount makes them incredibly versatile for garden decor.
Best For
Accent and landscape lighting, highlighting flower beds, sculptures, house numbers, or creating a soft ambient glow along a path.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Discreet and attractive design that blends into gardens.
- Very easy to install with stake or screws.
- Surprisingly powerful for a small spotlight.
- Good cable length for panel placement.
Cons:
- Not suitable for security or lighting large areas.
- The stake can be less stable in very soft soil.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Love this little spotlight. Much brighter than expected. Gives off great light for such a small spotlight & I love that it has a separate nice sized solar charging panel…”
Customer Review: “These lights are awesome! They’re intelligently & thoughtfully designed for optimal performance and flexibility… They light up a large area. The solar panel is excellent.”
7. T-SUN 4-in-1 Solar Landscape Spot Lights with Separate 5W Panel for Outdoor Auto On/Off Use
This “4-in-1” kit provides excellent value, offering multiple spotlights powered by a single, larger 5W solar panel. It’s a cost-effective way to get coordinated accent lighting across a garden bed or pathway without multiple independent panels.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 4 spotlights powered by one efficient 5W poly-crystalline solar panel.
✓ Durable IP65 waterproof construction suitable for outdoors.
✓ Flexible and adjustable heads (270° range) for precise aiming.
✓ Separate panel allows for optimal sun exposure away from the lights.
Why We Recommend It
It’s a fantastic system for lighting a series of small areas. You get the benefit of a separate, high-efficiency panel without the clutter of four separate units. The lights are reliable and last all night on the low setting.
Best For
Lighting a linear garden path, a row of shrubs, or a series of architectural features with a unified, professional look.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great value for a multi-light system.
- Large, efficient shared solar panel.
- Lights are durable and weatherproof.
- Clean installation with fewer panels.
Cons:
- If the main panel is shaded, all lights are affected.
- Wiring the four lights together requires a bit more planning.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I waited about 3 months after purchase… I am very happy with the purchase, the lights are fairly bright even on the low setting and light my walkway very well. They absolutely last all night on low…”
Customer Review: “The lights are perfect for what I intend to use them for with two settings on the brightness of the lights and the large solar panel makes it easy to charge the lights.”
8. 2 Pack Solar Porch Lights with Separate Panel and Replaceable Battery, Dusk to Dawn Motion Sensor
This two-pack is ideal for flanking a garage door, doorway, or gate. The key advantage is the user-replaceable battery, which extends the life of the light indefinitely—no need to throw the whole unit away when the battery eventually degrades.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ User-replaceable battery for long-term sustainability.
✓ Motion sensor with 3 lighting modes for porch security.
✓ Adjustable separate panel for maximum sun exposure.
✓ Dusk-to-dawn operation powered by efficient polycrystalline panels.
Why We Recommend It
The replaceable battery is a game-changer for long-term value. These lights are well-sized for porch use, provide good light for steps and entryways, and the two-pack makes it cost-effective to light both sides of a door.
Best For
Porch, entryway, garage door, or gate lighting where you want the longevity of a replaceable battery and the convenience of a motion-sensing solar porch light.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Replaceable battery greatly extends product lifespan.
- Great value as a two-pack.
- Effective motion sensor for entryway security.
- Clean, modern design.
Cons:
- Brighter than some accent lights but not as powerful as a floodlight.
- Battery type must be matched when replacing.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “These look amazing! Well worth the money. Well built. They offer efficient light for our off grid cabin. They are sized perfectly. They are easy to operate too.”
Customer Review: “Very nice lights for a reasonable cost and looking to get a set, possibly for the side, the shed also.”
9. 172LED Solar Lights for Outside with 3 Modes, Split Motion Sensor, Remote Control and IP65 Rating
This light offers a great “split design” where both the light unit and the motion sensor/solar panel can be placed independently, connected by a long cable. This is perfect for placing the sensor where motion is detected best, while the light shines where you need it.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ True split design: Light head and sensor/panel can be placed up to 16.4ft apart.
✓ Wide 180° motion detection angle up to 26 feet away.
✓ 3 lighting modes and remote control for easy operation.
✓ IP65 waterproof rating for durable outdoor use.
Why We Recommend It
The split sensor design solves a common problem. You can mount the light under an eave for coverage but place the sensor out in the open to catch movement earlier. It’s a smart design for effective security lighting.
Best For
Strategic security lighting where optimal sensor placement is different from ideal light placement, such as covering a driveway or backyard corner.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Innovative split design for optimal sensor placement.
- Long cable provides excellent installation freedom.
- Bright with a wide detection area.
- Useful remote control.
Cons:
- Two components to mount instead of one.
- Can be more complex to install initially.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I recently picked up the Gusicil Solar Lights for my chicken coop… The setup was super simple. I love that they come with a remote control, which makes it easy to turn them on and off…”
Customer Review: “I purchased the Gusicil Solar lights and I have really enjoyed having them… They are very bright and they light up a wide area. They’re great for the garage or outdoor shed.”
10. Philips 3600LM Solar Security Light with Separate Panel, PIR Motion Sensor and 16ft Dimmable Cable
From a trusted brand in lighting, this Philips model brings sophisticated features and reliable performance. It offers five adjustable light modes and a highly sensitive PIR sensor, all backed by the quality assurance of a major manufacturer.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ 2 brightness settings and a wide beam angle for excellent coverage.
✓ 5 adjustable lighting modes (Test, Security, All Night, etc.).
✓ High-sensitivity PIR motion sensor detects motion up to 69ft away.
✓ Long 16ft dimmable cable for flexible panel placement.
Why We Recommend It
You’re paying for smart engineering and brand reliability. The light modes are incredibly versatile, allowing you to fine-tune it from a pure security light to a gentle all-night guide light. The sensor is one of the best we’ve tested.
Best For
Buyers who prioritize brand trust, advanced programmability, and a highly sensitive motion sensor for top-tier security lighting.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent, highly sensitive motion sensor.
- Multiple programmable modes for custom use.
- Trusted brand with good build quality.
- Long cable for installation flexibility.
Cons:
- Premium price compared to similar-lumen competitors.
- Installation instructions could be clearer for some users.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Crazy BRIGHT and very sensitive to movement! Love it! We live in a rural area so having a nice, bright, motion activated light is nice and makes me feel safer. Works great and completely worth the cost…”
Customer Review: “The Philips quality is evident. It was easy to set up the different modes, and the light comes on instantly when you walk into the yard. Very reliable.”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Solar Light With Separate Panel
Essential Factors We Consider
Choosing the right light is more than just picking the brightest one. Think about your main goal. Is it security for a dark driveway? Go for high lumens and a strong motion sensor. Is it landscape accent lighting? Look for adjustable, lower-lumen spotlights. Also check the battery capacity and solar panel wattage—this duo determines how long your light will shine after sunset. Finally, the IP waterproof rating (IP65 or higher is best) ensures it survives rain and snow.
Budget Planning
You can find a great solar light with a separate panel for almost any budget. Under $50 gets you effective spotlights or basic security lights. The $50-$100 range is the sweet spot for bright, feature-rich security and flood lights with good batteries and remotes. Over $100, you’re looking at commercial-grade brightness, premium materials like aluminum, and advanced smart features. Remember, a slightly higher upfront cost often means better components that last longer.
Final Thoughts
The key to happiness with solar lighting is matching the product to your specific need. A super-bright 12000W light is overkill for a small garden path, and a delicate spotlight won’t secure a backyard. Use our comparison table and reviews to narrow down based on brightness, battery life, and special features like remote controls or adjustable heads. With a separate panel giving you charging flexibility, any of these top picks can reliably light up your nights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does a solar light with a separate panel work?
A: The solar panel, placed in a sunny spot, converts sunlight into electricity to charge a built-in battery. A cable connects this panel to the light fixture, which you can mount in a shady area like under a roof. At dusk, the light turns on using the energy stored in the battery.
Q: How long do the lights stay on at night?
A: Runtime depends on battery capacity, solar panel efficiency, and the mode used. On a full charge, most lights in our review can last 8-12 hours in dim/dusk-to-dawn mode. In motion-sensor mode (which uses full brightness only when triggered), they can often last multiple nights.
Q: Can these lights work in winter or cloudy weather?
A: Yes, but with reduced performance. Fewer sunlight hours mean less charge. Look for lights with larger solar panels and higher-capacity batteries (like our top picks) for better winter performance. They may not stay on all night, but will still provide several hours of light.
Q: Are they difficult to install?
A> Not at all! Most require only basic tools like a screwdriver. The separate panel usually mounts with screws or a stake, and the light fixture mounts similarly. The cable is then run between them. No electrical wiring is needed, which is the biggest advantage.
Q: What does the IP rating mean (IP65, IP67)?
A> IP stands for “Ingress Protection.” The first number (6) means it’s dust-tight. The second number indicates water resistance: 5 protects against water jets, 6 against powerful jets, and 7 means it can withstand temporary immersion in water. For outdoor lights, IP65 is good, IP66/IP67 is excellent for all weather.
Upgrading your outdoor space with solar lighting is a smart move. It saves money, is easy to install, and is good for the planet. The flexibility of a solar light with a separate panel solves the biggest issue—finding sun in a shady yard. Whether you chose our Best Pick for raw power, our Editor’s Choice for all-night reliability, or our Budget Pick for amazing value, you’re getting a quality product that will enhance your home’s safety and ambiance for years to come. Ready to light up your nights? Check the latest prices and find the perfect light for your home today.
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