You can’t rely on the moon and stars to illuminate your backyard at all times. So a well-lit patio may just be the secret to outdoor living!

While there are countless types of outdoor-safe lighting to choose from, string lights hold a special place in our (and many others’) hearts.

String lights are affordable, easy to install, and more diverse than you might realize. Here are the best outdoor string lights for the patio.

1. Globe

As one of the trademarks of contemporary patio design, globe lights are a go-to for all types of outdoor living spaces. These string lights are simple, versatile, and easy to style — perfect for homeowners looking to brighten up their patio without too much hassle.

Globe light bulbs come in many sizes and wattages. Clear glass is the most popular choice. If soft mood lighting is your goal, however, frosted glass may be a better option.

In terms of brightness, globe lights are rarely outshone (no pun intended). Utilize these bulbs throughout your patio for a space that’s well-lit but never blinding.

Arlmont & Co. Blairsden 100′ Outdoor 100-Bulb Globe String Light

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These string lights are specifically designed for outdoor use. You can mount them anywhere — no need to worry about moisture damage — and enjoy the epitome of modern patio lighting year-round.

With one bulb per foot, these globe lights offer tons of illumination and can cover an impressive amount of space.

The incandescent bulbs are rated for 3000 hours and produce 35 Lumens each. And if that’s too bright for your needs, they are dimmable with a compatible light switch.

2. Fairy

Fairy lights are delicate string lights with bulbs the same size or even smaller than traditional holiday lights. Typically, the goal is to make it look like each light is magically appearing out of thin air.