Best Motion Sensor Lights Guide & Reviews of 2021

Having a safe home can get very expensive with all the equipment that one needs. Yet, there are some inexpensive ways to protect one’s home. The most popular one is installing battery-powered or solar motion sensor lights as they can scare thieves off. Yet, with such a crowded market, it may be difficult to choose the best one for what the user needs. That is why we did that job. Keep on reading to find out which are the best motion sensor lights.

Emily Brooks - Editorial Staff

Updated: July 22, 2020

What We Did to Find the Best

All the products in this text were chosen and ranked according to how they performed in our system. We have five metrics, and each of them can receive a maximum score of 10 points. We add them up and then calculate the average score of each item. The one that got the best grade was placed at the top, the second one as the runner-up, and so on. The metrics we used were:

  • Features

    0-10

    monitoring period, 24/7 alerts, disaster protection etc.

  • Support

    0-10

    telephone, email, chat, and other channels

  • Price

    0-10

    monthly fee, money-back, trial period

  • Ease of Use

    0-10

    installation, maintenance, service support

  • Trust Score

    0-10

    BBB.org and Trustpilot (positive, negative reviews)

To see which are the most efficient electrical or solar motion sensor lights, we read extensively on the topic. First, we checked which ones were the most recommended by previous users. Then, we picked the ones with the best reviews and tried them out to see how they performed. Finally, with all this info, we classified the devices and ranked them.

1. Heath HZ-5411-WH Outdoor Motion Sensor Light: No More False Alarms

Total Score 9.8/10

Heath Main
Heath Motion Sensor
Heath Motion Sensor Light
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$14.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A-
Best for Accuracy

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

No

These motion lights are highly adjustable. For example, while it usually works with a detector that senses movement, it is also possible to make it work manually just by using a switch. In case it is used in automatic mode, users can also select if they want the security lights to stay on for 1, 5, or 10 minutes once there is some movement. Also, the device comes with a photodetector that will make sure that the tracker works at night, and that will turn it off once the sun comes out.

Pros:

  • Durable materials
  • Good range
  • Customizable settings
  • Pulse-count technology
  • Energy efficiency

Cons:

  • Not entirely weatherproof
  • Works with few LED lamps

The detector in this motion sensor light will sense any movement within a range of 150 degrees up 70 feet away. This is quite a good field for industry standards. To avoid false alarms, it also detects heat and relies on pulse count tech to go off only when a human enters this area. The materials of this product are durable since its housing is made out of metal, which allows it to withstand the most common weather conditions.


2. Leonlite Dual-Head Motion-Activated Security Flood Light: The Brightest of the Lot

Total Score 9.6/10

Leonlite Main
Leonlite About
Leonlite Features
  • Features10/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price8.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$37.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A
Best for Large Backyards

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

No

These smart motion sensor lights stand out for their brightness of 1,800 lumens and its long-range detector that senses up to 70 feet away. One of the main features of this device is that it has two movable heads. They can be adjusted to illuminate different areas. So, this would work very well for large backyards, for example. This item works well outdoors, thanks to its IP65 certification. This means that it should be able to withstand most weather conditions, including cold, rain, wind, and dust.

Pros:

  • Super bright
  • Long-range tracker
  • IP65 certification
  • LED bulbs
  • Three modes

Cons:

  • Slow customer care
  • Bulbs may fail after some months

This outdoor motion sensor light also has three main modes. They are manual, auto, and “dusk to dawn”. Manual means that the user turns it on when he wants. Auto refers to using the detectors to turn it on when the detector senses movement. And the last mode will turn off the device once the sun comes out. As it comes with LED bulbs, this item should be able to help save much more in electricity bills.


3. Mr. Beams Wireless Spotlight: Ideal for Small Rooms

Total Score 9.4/10

Mr.Beams Main
Mr.Beams Price
Mr.Beams Products
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$13.34

Visit Website
BBB Rating B
Best for Small Spaces

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

No

These security lights have LED bulbs, which is a great help in terms of savings. This does not sacrifice brightness, though. Its 140 lumens should be enough to illuminate most small spaces without any problem. The manufacturer claims that this device can cover more than 350 square feet with its beams. What is more, it can detect movements within a radius of 180 degrees that extends up to 30 feet.

Pros:

  • Auto shut-off
  • Large range
  • Effective detector
  • Extended battery life
  • Photodetector

Cons:

  • Weak weather-proofing
  • Could be brighter

These motion detector lights also have photosensors that review how dark it is outside. If it is at a certain level, it will immediately turn on the detector to keep an eye on any suspicious movement. Once there is no more motion, the lighting will end by itself after 30 seconds thanks to its automated feature that helps to make the battery last longer. Its materials are durable. The brand even sealed them in a way that would allow them to survive every mild weather condition.


4. Sunforce Solar Motion Light: Take Your Pick

Total Score 9.2/10

Sunforce Solar Main
Sunforce Products
  • Features9.0/10
  • Equipment10/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$21.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating B-
Best for Customization

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

No

These motion sensor lights can be customized according to what the client prefers. This happens, for example, in terms of how bright the device can get. It is also possible to determine how dark it has to be for the lighting to turn on thanks to its photodetectors. Its 850 lumens should suffice for most situations. For example, medium-sized or small backyards should do just fine with this intensity.

Pros:

  • Good brightness
  • Photodetector
  • Adjustable sensitivity
  • 30 ft. of range
  • Tweakable distance

Cons:

  • The battery does not last much
  • Poor weatherproofing

Users can tweak how sensitive for movements the device is. This comes in handy in case there are cats or dogs running around that could set them off. The tracker can sense up to 30 feet away, but the user can also adjust if they want it to be triggered within a smaller range. It is also very flexible in the sense that the user can choose his preferred power method as both solar power and a normal battery are available. It also comes with weatherproofing features, but they do not resist harsh weather.


5. URPOWER Outdoor Motion Sensor Lights: Withstands Everything

Total Score 9.2/10

Urpower Main
Urpower About
Urpower Hot
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score10/10

Starting Price

$25.99

Visit Website
BBB Rating A
Best for Harsh Weather

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

No

These motion sensor lights include some of the most desired features in the industry. For starters, they can withstand rain, dust, snow, and heat. So, they can be installed in regions with harsh or varying weather without any worries. Also, they have a solar panel to help reduce the bills. And a photodetector that will turn off the device when the sun comes out for extra savings. This also means that as soon as it detects darkness, it will turn on the sensor. In this way, having some extra security will be automatic.

Pros:

  • Saves power
  • IP64 certified
  • Solar power
  • Photodetector
  • Good angle

Cons:

  • Could charge faster
  • The battery could last longer

These solar motion sensor lights can be charged relatively fast, in 6 to 8 hours approximately. This is not the best in the industry, but it should be enough for sunny places. Then, with the energy they gather throughout the day, these motion lights can be on for up to 12 hours. To help save power, the device will only illuminate for 30 seconds once it detects movement within an area of 120 degrees up to 10 feet away. If it stops, after that time, the product will turn itself off.


6. LITOM Original Solar Lighting: Affordable and Saf

Total Score 9.0/10

Litom Main
Litom Best Seller
Litom Features
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price9.0/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score9.0/10

Starting Price

$17.99

BBB Rating B
Best for People on a budget

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

No

These motion detector lights are great for those who are looking for a cheap solution to increase their levels of safety. What is more, they also help to save money on the bills. It can use both solar and battery power to work. Though it usually uses the battery only as a backup. Its 24 LED bulbs also help to increase savings, while they provide good illumination. Its range covers 270 degrees around it, which is much ampler than most other competitors.

Pros:

  • Fast charging
  • 24 LED bulbs
  • Power saving
  • Efficient panel
  • Good range

Cons:

  • Trackers may be a bit too sensitive
  • The detector may die after some months

Its movement detector can sense people moving within a range of 26 feet. These motion sensor lights have also been prepared to resist heat and water, so living in a place with changing weather should not be a problem. Its solar panel will also help to save money while getting energy fast, as it charges much faster than regular devices. This item is ideal to be used together with a home security system with cameras and all.


7. LED Motion Sensor Light: Grandpa’s Best Friend

Total Score 9.0/10

Led Main
Led Features
Led How it Works
  • Features8.0/10
  • Equipment9.0/10
  • Price10/10
  • Ease Of Use10/10
  • Trust Score8.0/10

Starting Price

$11.99

BBB Rating B-
Best for Seniors

DIY instal

YES

Trial Period

No

These motion detector lights were designed to last for a long time. The manufacturer claims that they have a lifespan of 50,000 hours. They also come with support for one year and can be replaced if the user is not satisfied with their quality. They come with a photodetector that senses how dark it is to review whether the flood light should be on or not. Of course, it will only turn on at night when it detects movement.

Pros:

  • Long-lasting
  • Fireproof
  • Photodetector
  • Energy efficient
  • Easy to use and install

Cons:

  • Short-range of 10 feet
  • The detector is not sensitive enough

These motion sensor lights were built with energy efficiency in mind. Their 0.6W LED bulbs cost less than 30 cents per year in energy bills. Plus, they are very easy to use. Just plug them into the socket, and they are ready to work. The only aspect that some previous clients claim the team should work on is the sensitivity of this device. Many say that it does not detect movements unless they are too close to the detector.


Top 7 Best Motion Sensor Lights Comparison Table (Pricing & Features)

All these security lights are aimed at different audiences. This shows in their prices and features. To know which one is more suitable for every kind of client, here we broke down the info in a concise and friendly way.

Provider Total Score Price BBB Rating DIY instal Trial Period Photosensor LEDs IP64/65 Certification Solar Power Modes Range
1. Heath HZ-5411-WH 9.8 $14.99 A – Yes No Yes Yes No No Yes 70 ft.
2. Leonlite Dual-Head 9.6 $37.99 A Yes No Yes Yes Yes No Yes 70 ft.
3. Mr. Beams 9.4 $13.34 B Yes No Yes Yes No No No 30 ft.
4. Sunforce Solar 9.2 $21.99 B – Yes No Yes Yes No Yes Yes 30 ft.
5. URPOWER 9.2 $25.99 A Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes No 10 ft.
6. LITOM 9.0 $17.99 B Yes No Yes Yes No Yes No 26 ft.
7. LED Motion Sensor 9.0 $11.99 B Yes No Yes Yes No No No 10 ft.

The Mechanism Behind Security Lights

The mechanism of a smart outdoor motion sensor light is simple but effective. The detector sends infrared waves that sense movement and, in some cases, heat. In this way, it will know when a human or large animal approaches. When this happens, it will turn on the floodlight during a length of time that can go from 30 seconds to 20 minutes, depending on the device. Some trackers only work at night, thanks to their photosensors. This means that during the day, they are not looking for strange movements.

Motion Detector and Light Styles

Not all motion sensor lights are the same. They come in different styles for different places, needs, and ideas. Some are great for the outdoors, while others are better for indoors. Here we explain what each type has to offer and who can profit the most from each of them.

Motion Activated Flood Light

These motion sensor lights come with a detector that will sense when someone approaches the device. They are known for how their light is so intense that it brightens up the whole area. They usually include photosensors that ensure that the device works only when it is dark. In this way, they help to save energy. Unfortunately, not all of them have this tech.

Pros:

  • Bright illumination
  • Detect movement
  • Detect heat
  • Distinguish between night and day
  • Increase security

Cons:

  • Some of them are not energy-efficient
  • Trackers may break after some time

Decorative

These are the typical motion lights that people use indoors. In some cases, they are used just for comfort, so that one does not need to fumble through the dark looking for the switch at night. But there are also some people that find them useful for senior citizens who wake up at night and might need some help going through the house.

Pros:

  • Good design
  • Comfortable
  • Good for the elderly
  • Decorate the house
  • Fast turn-on time

Cons:

  • Short detection range
  • Not very bright

Remote

These are a particular type of outdoor motion sensor light. They way they work quite similar to the common ones. The difference lies in the fact that the detector can be put far away from the bulb. This is useful to use as a signal in case someone comes in. Or also to place the light in a different angle for security purposes.

Pros:

  • Independent detectors
  • Efficient sensing
  • Increased security
  • Can give warnings
  • Detect heat

Cons:

  • The trackers may break more easily
  • The system may fail from time to time

Where to Place Your Security Lights

This will depend on the needs of each user. Those who just want to see their way when coming back home should place them on the driveway and on the walks that lead to the doors. They can also come in handy to avoid tripping with stairs and pools.

How to Make the Most Out of Your Motion Sensor Lights

When using a motion sensor light, there are some tips and ideas that will come in handy to make the most out of them. Here they are:

  • Choose the right place: if the aim is to make the area safer, it is best to surround the perimeter with motion sensor lights so that there are no dark spots. Check that all the vulnerable points are covered.
  • Save money: choose a motion sensor light that comes with LED bulbs. They consume much less energy than a regular one and usually are much brighter. Also, try to get some solar motion sensor lights to reduce the number of electricity bills.
  • Make them last longer: not all motion detector lights are IP65 certified, or even weatherproof. Yet, there are some ways to protect regular ones from bad weather. Try to angle them downwards so that the water does not come in. It is also recommended to install shades above them to keep the rain out.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What Are the Best Motion Detector Lights?

    There are many aspects to consider when choosing the top motion lights. First of all, make sure that it has the right luminosity for the space it is going to be placed in. This can be checked by seeing how many lumens it has. The best motion detector lights also come with some kind of weatherproofing. The top one is IP65 certification.

  • How Do I Get My Motion Sensor Light to Stay On?

    Whether it is possible to do this or not will depend on the model of the motion sensor lights. This can be done only with the devices that come with many modes. If that is the case of the model, select the manual one. In this way, the photosensor and the detector will be overridden, and the one who will choose to turn on the device will be the owner with the switch.

  • Do Motion Sensor Lights Deter Burglars?

    A motion sensor light can be used for many things. One of their top uses is to keep burglars away. They do so by putting thieves on the spot and, in this way, discouraging them. If they try to break into the house through some dark spots so that no one sees them, having one of these devices will probably put them off. It is true that they are not replacements for whole-home security systems, but they are a nice complement. And they are also much cheaper.

  • How Do I Reset My Motion Light If It Stays on All the Time?

    This procedure will depend on the model of the product. But in general terms, motion sensor lights can usually be rebooted by pressing the power button and holding it down for a few seconds. After this, make sure to turn it on again if it does not do it by itself. In this way, it should now work like new.

  • How Do You Set a Security Light Sensor?

    The installation process will vary from model to model. There are some patterns that many follow, though. Generally, to install the new motion sensor light, it has to be plugged into the power socket first. Then, the user will need to install the detector and the solar panel if it has one. The last step is tweaking the different settings, like the mode and range of the device.

Final Advice

Whether it is to improve the levels of security at home or to make it more friendly to seniors, electrical or solar motion sensor lights are the way to go. They are inexpensive, easy to use, and quite convenient. There are many things to bear in mind when choosing one, like the brightness, weatherproofing, and the quality of the sensor. Make sure to be well-informed before committing to one.


Editorial Staff

As a journalist, Emily draws on her rich experience in home safety and seeks to research more on the topic. She is truly passionate about her interests. Emily is knowledgeable about security systems due to the in-depth studies that she has conducted for Securing Home.


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