Compact, collapsible, and inflatable to pack anywhere. Boasts 4000 mAh battery for charging smartphones, tablets, GPS and other devices. Bright 300 lumens illumination. Light can last up to 100 hours on low on a single charge. Rated IP67 dustproof and waterproof.

Cons

Takes more than 2 days to fully charge via solar power.

Best Bang for the Buck

Kizen

LED Camping Lanterns

Handy & Compact

Compact, collapsible lanterns that can fit in backpacks or emergency kits.

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Handy & Compact

Bottom Line

Compact, collapsible lanterns that can fit in backpacks or emergency kits.

Pros

Very compact at just over 3 inches across, can be packed anywhere. Offers three lighting modes including emergency SOS mode. Can power a cellphone for emergency use. Also doubles as a directional flashlight.

Cons

Can’t replace full lighting. Won’t fully charge a smartphone.

MPOWERD

Luci Outdoor 2.0 Solar Lantern

Collapsible Lantern

Very efficient solar charging unit that's perfect for camping, while also giving you a low price point.

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Collapsible Lantern

Bottom Line

Very efficient solar charging unit that's perfect for camping, while also giving you a low price point.

Pros

Runs for up to 24 hours of light after sitting in the sun all day. Lightweight lantern at only 4.4 oz., which is perfect for hiking and camping. Gives you 4 different lighting modes, including a blinking SOS mode. Has a charge level indicator light.

Cons

Not the most powerful light. Materials may not stand up well to rugged conditions.

Solight Design

SolarPuff Inflatable Solar Lantern

Paper Lantern Style

It's a little pricey, but this solar lantern folds down to less than an inch in thickness for easy transport.

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Paper Lantern Style

Bottom Line

It's a little pricey, but this solar lantern folds down to less than an inch in thickness for easy transport.

Pros

Good charging efficiency in a solar powered lantern. Lightweight unit that's easy to carry when hiking or camping. Offers 3 lighting modes, including an SOS flashing light. Looks like an inflatable white cube, meaning it provides a decorative element.

Cons

More expensive than others. Some problems with light brightness and charging capacity.

TomCare Solar Lights

Metal Flickering Flame Solar Lantern

Rechargeable Decor

These lanterns are great solar options for decorating your outdoor living spaces.

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Rechargeable Decor

Bottom Line

These lanterns are great solar options for decorating your outdoor living spaces.

Pros

Mimics flickering lamplight. Decorative design offers rustic flair without the need to use candles, fuel, or power cords. Durable metal construction with plastic panels is weather-resistant and rated IP65 dust- and water-resistant. Comes in a pack of two lanterns.

Cons

Provides more ambience than illumination.

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First Reviewed

November 26, 2021

Models
considered

Hours
researched

Written by Kyle Schurman

Updated June 2022

Solar powered lanterns are handy pieces of hardware for camping or other outdoor activities. Solar lanterns have LED lights inside, giving you a nice level of brightness. These lanterns contain a solar panel, allowing them to charge in the sun. After charging during the day, you can use the light at night. Most solar-powered lanterns are made to be small and lightweight, so you can carry them when hiking or camping. Some solar lanterns provide a strong light that’s great for close-up work. Others are more decorative in nature, providing just a little light for ambiance. Some of these lanterns have a fast charge mode via USB for convenience.

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