We scored the lights using a rubric, and we awarded points for ease of installation, instruction clarity, the quality of the materials, and any added functions. We then assessed the illumination range by having one person stand near the light-so it would remain on-and then having another person walk until they reached the edge of the illumination field. We used a long measuring tape to record the distances. We tested each light by mounting it and then waiting until dark to see how close we could get before triggering its motion detector. The brightest lights were hardwired into the electrical system, but that didn’t necessarily put them above battery-powered or solar-powered ones as those offered a greater degree of versatility. Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila How We Tested the Best Outdoor Motion Sensor Lightsĭuring the selection and testing of the lights, our primary goal was to determine the detection range of each model and how far it could reliably illuminate. BEST LIGHT BULBS: Sengled Smart LED With Motion Sensor.BEST FLOOD LIGHTS: Leonlite LED Motion Sensor Flood Lights.BEST DECORATIVE: C Cattleya 1-Light Motion Sensor Wall Sconce.BEST FLUSH-MOUNT: Brilliant Evolution Wireless Motion Sensor LED Light.BEST SMART: Ring Smart Lighting Floodlight Wired.Beams Wireless Motion Sensor LED Spotlight BEST OVERALL: Urpower SL-002 Outdoor Solar Motion Sensor Lights.Discover the pros and cons of each of the following motion sensor lights, and find out how each one earned a spot in this lineup.

This guide will explain what features to look for and showcase some of the best outdoor motion sensor light options available. We mounted them, wiring them when necessary, and tracked each of their functions.įor those considering installing outdoor motion sensor lights, the best options will depend on a variety of factors, including security needs, budget, and day-to-day lifestyle. We wanted to know whether today’s top motion sensor lights lived up to the hype, so we tested them in real-life settings. Motion sensor lights, which only activate when they detect movement, are a great solution. Outdoor illumination keeps the home visible at night and helps deter crime, but leaving lights on all night is a costly waste of energy.

Outdoor motion sensor led light bulb