· Maggie · Reviews/Home  Â· 8 min read

Top 6 Best Top-rated Outdoor String Lights with Dimming Options 2025 Review

Find the perfect ambiance for your outdoor space with the 6 best top-rated outdoor string lights with dimming options offering style versatility and energy efficiency for every setting

Find the perfect ambiance for your outdoor space with the 6 best top-rated outdoor string lights with dimming options offering style versatility and energy efficiency for every setting

Introduction

Picture this: a warm summer evening, the soft hum of conversation, and your backyard glowing with just the right amount of light. Sounds dreamy, right? Outdoor string lights with dimming options can make this vision a reality. They’re not just functional—they’re magical. Whether you’re hosting a lively gathering or enjoying a quiet night under the stars, these lights let you set the mood exactly how you want it.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through six of the best outdoor string lights with dimming features that I’ve personally tested. From cozy patios to sprawling backyards, there’s something here for everyone. By the end, you’ll know exactly which set will make your outdoor space shine. Let’s get started!


Brightever Dimmable Outdoor String Lights

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These Brightever Dimmable Outdoor String Lights are a game-changer for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor vibe. I hung them up on my patio, and let me tell you—they’re a showstopper. With three color temperatures (2700K, 4000K, 5000K), you can switch from a warm, cozy glow to a bright, energetic light in seconds. The dimming feature is a lifesaver, letting you dial down the brightness for a chill evening or crank it up for a party.

The 25+1 ST38 Edison bulbs are shatterproof and waterproof, so you don’t have to worry about them breaking or shorting out in the rain. Setting them up was a breeze, and the 50-foot length covered my patio perfectly.

That said, the wire feels a bit on the thin side, which made me wonder how it’ll hold up in rougher weather. So far, though, they’ve survived light rain without a hitch. The remote control is handy, but its range isn’t the best—you’ll need to be pretty close for it to work. Overall, these lights are stylish, practical, and a great bang for your buck.

Pros & Cons:

ProsCons
Dimmable with 3 color optionsWire feels thin and less durable
Shatterproof, waterproof bulbsRemote range could be improved
Easy installation, 50FT length

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Outdoor String Lights Dimmable with Remote, 50 FT

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If you’re looking for a reliable set of lights to brighten up your outdoor space, these Outdoor String Lights Dimmable with Remote are a solid pick. The 50-foot length is perfect for larger areas, and the dimming feature lets you adjust the brightness from 25% to 100%. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just relaxing with a book, these lights have you covered.

One feature I love is the 2-timer function, which automatically turns the lights on and off at set times. It’s super convenient and saves energy. The lights are also waterproof and shatterproof, so they can handle whatever Mother Nature throws at them.

The only downside? The wire feels a bit flimsy, which might be a concern if you’re dealing with strong winds or heavy rain. Compared to the Brightever lights, these offer similar dimming and remote features but add the bonus of a timer. The warm 2200K glow is perfect for creating a cozy vibe, though it doesn’t have the color versatility of the Brightever set.

Pros & Cons:

ProsCons
Dimmable with remote controlWire feels thin and less durable
2-timer function for convenienceLimited color options
Waterproof and shatterproofSome reports of missing remotes

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KNONEW Outdoor String Lights with Dimmer

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The KNONEW Outdoor String Lights are a great choice if you’re after a cozy, intimate vibe. The dimming feature is smooth, letting you adjust the brightness to match your mood. The 32.8-foot length is ideal for smaller spaces, though the actual light coverage is closer to 24 feet—something to keep in mind if you’ve got a bigger area to cover.

The shatterproof ST38 bulbs are a nice touch, especially for outdoor use, and the waterproof design means they can handle rain without a problem. That said, the dimming isn’t as seamless as I’d hoped—it tends to jump between bright and dim rather than offering a gradual transition. Still, the warm 2700K glow is inviting, and the UL-listed certification gives me peace of mind about safety.

Pros & Cons:

ProsCons
Smooth dimming featureDimming range isn’t seamless
Shatterproof, waterproof bulbsActual light coverage is ~24FT
Warm 2700K glow, UL-listedDimmer switch can feel flimsy

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Mlambert 3 Color Outdoor LED Dimmable String Lights for Patio with Remote

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If you’re all about versatility, the Mlambert Outdoor String Lights are worth a look. With 48 feet of shatterproof, waterproof LED bulbs, these lights are built to last. The dimming feature and remote control make it easy to switch between three color temperatures (2700K, 4000K, 5000K), so you can set the mood for any occasion.

Compared to the KNONEW lights, the Mlambert set offers more color options and a longer cord. However, some users have noted that the lights aren’t as bright at full intensity, which might be a drawback if you’re lighting up a large area. The remote is handy, but losing it could be a problem since there’s no manual override on the plug.

Pros & Cons:

ProsCons
Dimmable with remote controlLess bright at full intensity
Three color temperature optionsRemote dependency for operation
Shatterproof and waterproofLimited brightness for large areas

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Outdoor String LED Patio Lights - 200Ft Dimmable with Remote

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Got a big backyard or outdoor event space? These 200-foot outdoor string lights are a total game-changer. The dimming feature, controlled by a remote, lets you adjust the brightness to create the perfect ambiance. I tested them in all kinds of weather, and the waterproof, shatterproof ST38 bulbs held up like champs.

One cool feature is the ability to connect multiple strands, though you’re limited to the same brand due to the proprietary connector. The remote offers three brightness levels and timer options (3 or 5 hours), which is super handy for saving energy. The only downside? The wire feels a bit thin, and the transformer is bulky, which might be an issue in windy areas.

Pros & Cons:

ProsCons
Dimmable with remote controlThin wire may not withstand wind
Waterproof & shatterproof bulbsBulky transformer
Long 200-foot lengthProprietary connector limits expansion

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LED Outdoor String Lights, 50FT Waterproof Patio Light with Remote & 16 Dimmable Shatterproof S14 Edison Bulbs

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These 50-foot LED outdoor string lights are a fantastic choice for adding a cozy glow to your patio or backyard. The warm light from the 16 shatterproof S14 Edison bulbs creates a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The dimming feature, controlled by the included remote, lets you adjust the brightness to suit any occasion.

The waterproof design is a big plus, ensuring these lights can handle rain or shine. They’re also connectable, so you can extend the length if needed. Compared to the Brightever and KNONEW lights, these offer a similar warm glow but with a sturdier build and a more user-friendly remote.

Pros & Cons:

ProsCons
Waterproof and durableLimited color options
Shatterproof bulbsRemote range could be better
Easy-to-use dimming remoteSlightly shorter lifespan

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you put a dimmer on outdoor string lights?

Absolutely! Just make sure your string lights are labeled as dimmable. Non-dimmable lights can flicker or even get damaged if you try to dim them. Use an outdoor-rated dimmer switch, and if you’re not sure about the wiring, it’s always a good idea to consult an electrician.

What kind of string lights are best for outside?

Look for lights that are weatherproof or waterproof with an IP65 rating or higher. LED lights are a great choice because they’re energy-efficient and durable. Shatterproof bulbs and commercial-grade cords are also a plus for longevity.

What is best for outdoor night light?

It depends on what you’re after. Solar-powered lights are eco-friendly and easy to install, while motion-activated lights are great for security. For ambiance, you can’t go wrong with string lights or low-voltage landscape lighting.

Can you leave outdoor string lights on all night?

Yes, but it’s best to use LED lights, which are energy-efficient and don’t get too hot. Make sure they’re rated for outdoor use and connected to a grounded outlet or timer. Regularly check for any damage to ensure they’re safe to use.

How do you dim outdoor lights?

You’ll need dimmable bulbs or fixtures and an outdoor-rated dimmer switch. For smart lighting, consider Wi-Fi-enabled dimmers or bulbs that let you control brightness via an app or voice assistant.

How do I know if my string lights are dimmable?

Check the packaging or product description for the word “dimmable.” If you’re not sure, look for markings on the lights themselves or contact the manufacturer. Using non-dimmable lights with a dimmer can cause issues, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.


Final Recommendations

After testing these lights, here’s my take:

  • Best for Versatility and Color Options: Brightever Dimmable Outdoor String Lights (Amazon link)
  • Best for Energy Efficiency and Timer Functionality: Outdoor String Lights Dimmable with Remote (Amazon link)
  • Best for Compact Spaces and Easy Installation: KNONEW Outdoor String Lights with Dimmer (Amazon link)
  • Best for Large Coverage Areas: Outdoor String LED Patio Lights - 200Ft (Amazon link)
  • Best for Vintage Aesthetic: Mlambert 3 Color Outdoor LED Dimmable String Lights (Amazon link)
  • Best for Budget-Friendly Options: LED Outdoor String Lights, 50FT Waterproof Patio Light with Remote (Amazon link)

No matter which set you choose, you’re in for a treat. These lights will transform your outdoor space into a cozy, inviting haven. Happy decorating!


Affiliate Disclosure

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on one of the product links above and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my work.

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