Best Outdoor Lanterns with Solar Power

TL;DR: The Kizen Solar Lantern Yellow delivers 65 lumens of LED light for up to 600 minutes, folds to 8.5 cm, weighs 0.399 lb and runs on solar, USB or AAA batteries.

What sets this lantern apart is its ultra‑compact footprint—just 8.5 cm tall when collapsed—and its lightweight build at 0.399 lb. Despite its size, it can emit a bright‑white 65 lumens on high mode and sustain that output for 600 minutes (10 hours), giving you a full night of illumination on a single charge.

Compared with the other seven lanterns in this roundup, the Kizen is dramatically lighter than the Energizer S‑500 Hybrid Power (2.2 lb) and the Stansport Solar Lantern (1.9 lb), and it also costs less than the Berzfasa Solar Portable Camping Light and the Goal Zero Crush Light Chroma. However, its 65 lumens fall short of the 500‑lumens output of the Energizer model and the 2000‑lumens claim of the Berzfasa lantern, making it a modest performer on brightness alone.

Backers love the collapsible design and the three charging options—solar panels, a USB port (full charge in 240 minutes) and a 3 × AAA backup—that keep the light running even when the sun hides. Reviewers frequently mention its reliability during storms and its ease of hanging from a tree or tent hook. The main complaint is that 65 lumens can feel dim in larger group campsites, and the solar panel charges slowly if it’s not in full sun.

The lantern offers three light modes (high, low, SOS) driven by an LED source, and its plastic housing is water‑resistant, so a light drizzle won’t stop it. Its hanging capability means you can suspend it wherever you need light, and the built‑in power bank lets you charge a phone in a pinch.

Best for: Budget‑conscious buyers seeking a reliable entry‑level option — the Kizen Solar Lantern Yellow offers Height: 8.5 cm

Avoid if: You need high brightness for large group campsites or rely on fast solar charging in low‑light environments

TL;DR: The Goal Zero Crush Light Chroma packs 10 LEDs, 60 lumens of warm 3000 K light, and a 35‑hour low‑mode run time into a 3.2‑oz collapsible lantern that’s splash‑proof and USB‑/solar‑chargeable.

What really sets this lantern apart is its ultra‑light weight of just 3.2 oz and a collapsible form that folds to a thickness of 0.6 in, making it easy to stash in any pack. It runs on a 500 mAh lithium‑polymer battery that delivers up to 35 hours on the lowest setting, while the brightest mode still reaches 60 lumens.

Compared with the other seven lanterns in this roundup, the Crush Light is dramatically lighter than the Stansport Solar Lantern (1.9 lb) and the LuminAID Nova Colors (0.46 lb). Its splash‑proof IPX4 rating is solid, though the Trirocks Solar Lantern offers a higher IP44 rating. Brightness is where it falls short—its 60 lumens are far below Stansport’s 600‑lumens output and the LuminAID Max’s 100‑lumens, so it’s best suited for ambient lighting rather than illuminating large groups.

Reviewers consistently praise the lantern’s portability and the fun 6‑color plus multi‑color fade modes, but many note the limited brightness and the fact that the high‑mode runtime caps at about 180 minutes (roughly three hours). Professional reviewers echo this, calling the brightness “limited” but highlighting the impressive low‑mode endurance.

Technically, the lantern can be powered via USB (5 V / 0.5 A) or a tiny 0.12 W monocrystalline solar panel, with a full charge taking 150 minutes. The warm 3000 K light temperature creates a cozy glow, and the 10‑LED array offers both white and color modes for versatile campsite ambience.

Best for: Ultralight backpackers and campers who prioritize minimal pack weight and flexible color lighting—Battery Capacity: 500 mAh.

Avoid if: You need broad, high‑brightness illumination for large groups or extended high‑mode use.

TL;DR: The Energizer S‑500 Hybrid Power Lantern delivers 500 lumens of 360‑degree light for up to 8 hours on low mode, with solar, USB and AA backup options, but its 2.2 lb weight makes it less suited for ultralight packs.

What really sets the S‑500 apart is its 500‑lumen output combined with a full 360‑degree beam, giving you bright, even illumination all around the campsite. The lantern runs for 8 hours in low mode, and its hybrid power system lets you charge via solar panel, USB cable, or three AA batteries, so you’re rarely left in the dark.

Compared with the other seven lanterns in this roundup, the S‑500 is heavier than the ultra‑light Goal Zero Crush Light Chroma (≈0.02 lb) and the compact Kizen Solar Lantern (≈0.40 lb), but lighter than the rugged Trirocks Solar Lantern (≈3.81 lb). Its 500‑lumens brightness outshines the Kizen (65 lumens) and LuminAID Nova (100 lumens) models, yet it falls short of the high‑output Berzfasa (2 000 lumens) and Stansport (600 lumens) units. Drop resistance of 1 m adds durability that many peers don’t list.

Users consistently praise the lantern’s brightness and the peace of mind that comes from having three charging options. Reviewers also note the shatter‑proof lens and the easy‑push switch as practical touches. The main complaints focus on the 2.2 lb weight, which some ultralight hikers find cumbersome, and the fact that the AA backup batteries are sold separately.

Additional technical details include an IPX4 rating for splash resistance, a fixed rubber handle for easy hanging, and three selectable light modes (high, low, night light). The lantern’s collapsible design makes storage straightforward, and the glow‑in‑the‑dark USB cover helps you locate it at night.

Best for: Campers who need reliable, wide‑area illumination and appreciate multiple charging options, with a runtime of 8 hours on low mode.

Avoid if: You prioritize ultralight weight or require advanced features beyond basic illumination.

TL;DR: The LuminAID Nova Colors offers a 0.46‑lb inflatable lantern with 13 color/white modes, 100‑lumens max output, IP67 waterproofing and 1000 mAh battery, but its solar charge takes up to 15 hours.

What really sets the Nova Colors apart is its inflatable, collapsible design that weighs just 0.46 lb and packs down to a 120.65 mm cube. It delivers 13 lighting options—5 white brightness levels plus 8 vibrant color modes—and can reach a maximum of 100 lm. An IP67 rating lets you submerge it to 1 m, and the TPU housing is PVC‑free and shatterproof, so it survives drops and water without cracking.

Compared with the seven other lanterns in this roundup, the Nova Colors sits in the middle of the weight spectrum: it’s lighter than the 0.6‑lb Berzfasa Solar Portable Camping Light but heavier than the ultra‑light Goal Zero Crush Light Chroma, which tips the scales at about 0.02 lb. Its 1000 mAh battery capacity lands between Goal Zero’s 500 mAh pack and Berzfasa’s 5800 mAh cell, giving it respectable runtime without the bulk of the larger models. In terms of brightness, its 100 lm peak is far lower than the 2000 lm output claimed by Berzfasa, positioning it as a modest‑output lantern rather than a high‑intensity workhorse.

Reviewers consistently praise how quickly the lantern inflates with its twist‑to‑inflate valve and how the multicolor modes add a fun ambience to campsite evenings or backyard pool parties. Professional editors note the compactness makes it ideal for emergency kits and solo backpacking trips. The most common criticism targets the modest 100 lm ceiling, which some users feel “dim” for larger group settings, and the solar charging window of 600‑900 minutes (10‑15 hours of direct sun) that can feel sluggish on cloudy days.

Beyond the light output, the Nova Colors includes a 4‑level charge indicator, a two‑year shelf‑life guarantee for the lithium‑polymer cell, and an adjustable hanging strap for easy suspension. The lantern also floats, so you can safely use it on water without worrying about damage.

Best for: Most users seeking a balanced, mainstream option — the LuminAID Nova Colors offers Battery Capacity: 1000 mAh

Avoid if: You want the best value-per-dollar in its price range

TL;DR: The Berzfasa Solar Portable Camping Light delivers 2000 lm of brightness, 16 hours of runtime and IP67 protection, but its solar recharge is slower and it carries a mid‑range price.

The standout spec is its 2000 lm maximum output, powered by a 5800 mAh lithium battery that can run for 16 hours on a single charge. The lantern is rated IP67, so it survives rain or brief submersion, and it offers five light modes—including a red/blue SOS—plus stepless dimming for fine‑tuned illumination.

Weighing 0.6 lb, the Berzfasa sits between the ultra‑light Goal Zero Crush Light Chroma (about 0.018 lb) and the heftier Energizer S‑500 Hybrid Power (2.2 lb). Its 2000 lm output dwarfs the LuminAID Nova’s 100 lm maximum, while its 5800 mAh battery far exceeds the Nova’s 1000 mAh and Goal Zero’s 500 mAh packs. The lantern also provides magnetic, hook and 1/4‑inch tripod mounting, giving it more flexibility than many peers that list fewer mounting options.

Customers consistently praise the compact, foldable design and the convenience of solar charging, especially the magnetic base and hook that let you hang it anywhere. Professional reviewers note the 25 % solar panel efficiency, meaning you need a solid stretch of direct sun to refill the large battery—a point that shows up in user complaints about slower charging. The ABS housing with toughened glass and a 180° swivel head adds durability and directional control.

Best for: Users who need a high‑capacity battery (5800 mAh) and strong illumination for solo or small‑group camping.

Avoid if: You prioritize rapid solar charging or need a lantern that can reliably light large group gatherings.

TL;DR: The Trirocks Solar Lantern offers an 8‑hour warm‑white glow, IP44 weather resistance and a detachable panel, but its $47.99 price and 3.81 lb weight place it in the premium camp‑light tier.

What really stands out is the lantern’s 480‑minute (8 hour) battery life on a single solar charge, plus a 360‑minute (6 hour) charging window. The IP44 rating means it can handle rain or light snow, and the detachable solar panel lets you position the panel for optimal sunlight while the lantern stays where you need light.

Compared with the other seven lanterns in this roundup, the Trirocks unit is heavier than the ultra‑light Goal Zero Crush Light Chroma (around 0.02 lb) and the LuminAID Nova Colors (about 0.46 lb), and even heavier than the Stansport model (1.9 lb). Its 480‑minute run time exceeds Goal Zero’s high‑mode 180‑minute run time and matches the Nova’s high‑mode ceiling of 480 minutes, while offering longer illumination than Stansport’s high‑mode 300 minutes.

Reviewers consistently praise the sturdy metal‑plastic construction, the warm white LED ambience, and the flexible mounting options—tabletop, hanging, or ground. The 4.6‑star rating from 28 reviewers highlights satisfaction, though several users note the lantern feels solid rather than lightweight and that the $47.99 price is higher than many budget alternatives.

Additional technical details include a rope handle for easy hanging, auto dusk‑to‑dawn operation alongside a manual switch, and a warm‑white LED color temperature that creates a cozy glow for patios, gardens or pathways.

Best for: Garden enthusiasts who want a durable, solar‑powered lantern with warm white light and IP44 weather protection.

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $47.99

TL;DR: The Stansport Solar Lantern delivers a bright 600‑lumens output, 5‑hour high‑mode runtime and dual solar/USB charging in a sturdy 1.9‑pound package for $37.62.

What really stands out is the 600‑lumens CREE LED that lights up a campsite with ease, backed by a rechargeable battery that lasts 300 minutes on high and 540 minutes on low. The built‑in solar panel and a micro‑USB port give you two reliable ways to recharge, and a full charge takes just 120 minutes. At 241.3 mm tall, 120.65 mm deep and wide, the lantern is compact enough to slip into a backpack, while its 1.9‑pound weight keeps it portable yet solid.

Compared with the other seven lanterns in this roundup, the Stansport sits in the middle of the pack on weight—significantly heavier than the ultra‑light Goal Zero Crush Light Chroma (around 0.018 lb) and Kizen Solar Lantern (about 0.4 lb), but lighter than the Trirocks set (roughly 3.8 lb). Its 600‑lumens output dwarfs the 100‑lumens maximum of the LuminAID Nova Colors and the 65‑lumens high mode of the Kizen, while still falling short of the 2,000 lumens reported for the Berzfasa model. Runtime on high (300 minutes) outlasts Goal Zero’s 180‑minute high mode, though the Energizer S‑500 matches the Stansport’s brightness with 500 lumens at a comparable weight of about 2.2 lb.

Reviewers consistently praise the solar panel’s eco‑friendly convenience and the reliable USB backup, noting that the lantern “charges quickly” and “provides plenty of light for short trips.” The main criticism is the limited five‑hour high‑mode runtime, which some users feel is too short for an entire night outdoors. The 1.9‑pound build, while sturdy thanks to its plastic, metal and rubber housing, is also mentioned as a bit hefty for ultra‑light backpackers. The product carries a one‑year warranty, giving peace of mind for casual adventurers.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the Stansport Solar Lantern offers Lumens: 600

Avoid if: You're on a tight budget or only need basic functionality

TL;DR: The LuminAID Max Quick Inflate packs a 200‑lumens, IP67‑rated lantern with a 2‑second twist‑inflate system and a 2000 mAh battery, but its premium $75.40 price may limit budget‑conscious buyers.

The standout feature is the twist‑to‑inflate mechanism that fills the lantern in just 2 seconds, eliminating any need for mouth contact. Inside, a 2000 mAh lithium‑ion battery powers up to 200 lumens at a color temperature of 5900‑6500 K, and the unit can run on solar input or USB‑C.

Compared with the seven other lanterns in this roundup, the Max Quick Inflate is pricier than the Goal Zero Crush Light Chroma, which weighs a featherlight 0.018 lb, but it is considerably lighter than the Trirocks Solar Lantern at about 3.81 lb. Its IP67 waterproof rating outclasses Trirocks’ IP44 rating, while the 200 lumens output sits below Stansport’s 600 lumens but exceeds the Nova Colors’ 100 lumens. Battery capacity also leads the pack: 2000 mAh beats Goal Zero’s 500 mAh and Nova Colors’ 1000 mAh, though it trails the Berzfasa’s 5800 mAh.

Users consistently praise the hassle‑free inflation and the lantern’s ability to float when water spills into a tent. Professional reviewers note the hygienic inflation method and appreciate the built‑in phone charger, yet they also point out the slow solar recharge of 16‑20 hours and the limited battery capacity for multiple device charges. Everyday campers find the five light modes—Turbo, High, Medium, Low, and Flashing—adequate for most tent lighting needs, while the submersible depth of 1 meter adds confidence during unexpected rain.

Technical details reinforce its versatility: the lantern offers five distinct light modes, a USB output of 5 V/2.1 A, and a submersible depth of 1 meter. The TPU housing is PVC‑free, lead‑free, and RoHS‑compliant, ensuring durability without harmful chemicals. With a weight range of 7.7‑12.5 oz, it remains easy to pack alongside other gear.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance — the LuminAID Max Quick Inflate offers Battery Capacity: 2000 mAh

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $75.40