Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

Being technical by nature this review is aimed at people who want details not described in most of the other reviews. I bought two sets of these light for a new, backyard pergola. Having read other reviews I was fully aware that these lights would not be as bright as hard-wired (110v) string lights. They are intended to provide low-level, mood/conversation lighting under my 14 x 17 pergola. First, it’s important to point out that the advertised length of 27 ft. represents the entire length of the product. More than 1/3 of that is the span of wire between the solar panel and the first light, which is 9.5 ft. I will attempt to include a diagram (picture) with this review that shows all the measurements related to this product. Also, the advertised distance between each bulb is 20 inches when in fact is 18.5 inches. There are 12 bulbs and total distance from bulb 1 to bulb 12 is 17 ft. Each bulb socket has a small hole on its end. The hole makes it convenient for hanging the lights and using an S-hook works really well. The wiring seems pretty solid and the quality overall is nice. The biggest unknown for me living in the hot desert will be seeing how well the product stands up to intense sun and heat. The first fail point is likely to be the battery. The advertised battery is a single, 1500mah, type 18650, 3.7V. It’s sealed inside the solar panel. I’d prefer if it was replaceable although there is male/female twist-connection between the panel and the sting of lights so at least the solar panel/battery unit can be replaced if need be. To mount the solar panel, which does not weigh very much at all, you have the option of using a stake (for ground mounting) or a large clip. The clip is plastic, fairly strong and well built. Although it does fit on my 2 x 4 pergola framing (actually 1.2 in.), due to the potential for very strong winds, I plan to forgo both of those mounting options and will develop my own to attach the solar panel to the top of the pergola. Overall I'm happy with the quality and the product works as expected.