DIY Solar-Powered Landscape Lighting vs. Low-Voltage Lighting: Which Outdoor Lighting Option Is Best?

Choosing the right landscape lighting can dramatically improve your home's curb appeal, safety, and nighttime ambience. Two of the most common options homeowners compare are DIY solar-powered landscape lighting and professionally installed low-voltage lighting systems.

Both offer unique benefits, but they perform very differently in terms of brightness, durability, and long-term value. This guide breaks down the pros, cons, and ideal use cases of solar landscape lighting vs. low-voltage landscape lighting so you can choose the best solution for your outdoor space.

What Is DIY Solar-Powered Landscape Lighting?

Solar landscape lights use small solar panels to capture sunlight during the day and turn on automatically at night. Because they require no wiring, they’re one of the easiest and most affordable DIY outdoor lighting options.

Benefits of Solar Landscape Lighting

• Easy, no-wiring installation
  Ideal for homeowners who want quick lighting without hiring a professional.
• Lowest upfront cost
  Most solar path lights cost $10–$30 per fixture.
• Zero energy cost
  All power comes from sunlight.
• Flexible and portable
  Great for renters or temporary setup.

Drawbacks of Solar Lighting

• Inconsistent brightness
  Performance drops on cloudy days, in shaded yards, or in winter.
• Shorter lifespan
  Rechargeable batteries and solar panels degrade over time.
• Lower light output
  Most solar lights produce fewer lumens compared to wired systems.
• Limited design impact
  Good for pathways but not for highlighting trees, architecture, or large outdoor areas.

Best Uses for Solar Lights

• Basic path lighting
• Small garden accents
• Seasonal or decorative lighting
• Small yards with full sun exposure

What Is Low-Voltage Landscape Lighting?

A low-voltage landscape lighting system uses a transformer to safely reduce household current to 12 volts. Professional installers design and wire the system to ensure consistent illumination throughout your property.

Benefits of Low-Voltage Outdoor Lighting

• Bright, consistent illumination
  Performs reliably in any weather or season.
• Professional design & dramatic effect
  Enhances architecture, trees, pathways, driveways, and outdoor living areas.
• Long-lasting fixtures
  High-quality brass or aluminum fixtures can last decades.
• Smart controls available
  Timers, zones, dimmers, and app-based automation.
• Excellent for home security
  Brightens dark areas and improves visibility.

Drawbacks of Low-Voltage Lighting

• Higher initial cost
  Designed and installed by a professional using the highest quality fixtures and accompanying equipment (i.e. connectors, wires, transformers, etc.).
• Requires expert installation
  Wiring, transformer sizing, design research and layout are best done by pros.
• Less portable than solar
  The system is semi-permanent but can be adjusted.

Best Uses for Low-Voltage Lighting

• Whole-property landscape lighting
• Architectural accent lighting
• Tree uplighting
• Driveway and path illumination
• Outdoor entertaining spaces
• Security lighting

Solar vs. Low-Voltage Landscape Lighting: Key Comparison

Which Landscape Lighting Option Is Better?

Choose DIY Solar Lighting if:

• You want the cheapest outdoor lighting solution
• You have a sunny yard with minimal shade
• You only need small accent lights
• You prefer a quick, DIY installation

Choose Low-Voltage Landscape Lighting if:

• You want the best brightness and consistent performance
• You want to highlight trees, architecture, or walkways
• You want your home to look professionally lit
• You need reliable lighting for safety and security
• You want long-lasting value and durability

Ready to Make Your Choice?

If you are ready to collaborate with an experienced outdoor lighting designer to professionally install a high-quality outdoor lighting system, reach out to AVL Outdoor Lighting & Design and let us provide a free consultation and estimate.

Based in Arden, North Carolina, AVL Outdoor Lighting & Design is a family-owned company specializing in architectural, landscape, and event illumination across Western North Carolina. We are on a mission to transform spaces by creating custom lighting designs that deliver emotional impact—offering peace, delight, and a feeling of security. Whether enhancing a home’s facade, elevating a commercial storefront, or crafting lighting for events, the team focuses on collaborating with the clients’ unique aesthetics and accentuating focal points.