MPOWERD Luci Solar String Lights [Review]

A fun, self-contained, all-in-one lighting solution for any campsite or outdoor gathering.

Having a set of string lights for us has become a “need” rather than a “want” type of camping gear for us.

Other than the fact that it helps create that camping vibe atmosphere that we all love so much, it also helps alleviate battery drainage on other light sources that we typically use when camping (headlamps, flashlights, lanterns, etc.).

We were given the Luci solar string lights to review by a company named MPOWERD (short for Micro Power Design). We took it along with us to Joshua Tree this weekend at the Castle House Estate, a yurt camping experience that we really enjoyed.

It wasn’t the typical camping destination we would normally do, but it was close for us to check out for a quick one-nighter. 

Key Features

• 18 ft nylon-braided cord with 10 light nodes (20 warm white LEDs in total)
• 100 lumens
• Lasts Up to 20 hours on a single charge
• Charge via solar panel or micro-USB
• Has an external flashlight
• 3 LED modes: low, medium, high
• Weighs 11.3 oz
• Built-in USB port for charging mobile phones
• Rechargeable 2000 mAh Li-ion battery

Usability

Out of the box, the unit looked fairly straightforward.

There are two buttons: One’s the power button, and the second one is a battery level indicator. On the side is a plastic cover that hides a USB and micro USB port for charging.

Easy to use, but we’ll explain a few things that can be improved on below.

Performance

MPOWERD claims that a single charge on the lowest brightness setting will give you around 20 hours of light. We tested this, and they are pretty spot on with this.

We left the Luci running on the lowest brightness until it went out and took it outside to see how well it charged via the solar panel.

After two hours, we checked the battery levels, and it was at 2 lights and were pleased that it was charging properly. You can see what these indicator levels mean below, which I pulled from their user manual:

• 1 light = 0-20%
• 2 lights = 21-40%
• 3 lights = 41-60%
• 4 lights = 61-100%

Brightness

100 lumens isn’t that bright compared to most headlamps and flashlights on the market, but it’s bright enough to see our pathways for walking around our campsite. The LEDs produced a warm orange/yellow tone that we preferred over just bright white.

Features

One of the main key features of the Luci string lights that we enjoyed was the ability to charge the unit via a solar panel.

Set it in direct sunlight in the morning, and have it ready for nighttime use when ready. Another great feature is the ability to charge your mobile phones if needed.

Another unique feature I would like to point out is that the carry case is a spring-loaded twist cap, which is where you can wind the string nodes back to securely protect them from the elements.

We did notice, however depending on how you wind the string back up, if multiple nodes overlap each other inside the case, the cover won’t be able to collapse back in place. So you’ll have to unwind and play around, making sure each of the nodes doesn’t overlap before closing.

Durability

The plastic used for each LED node looks very durable and can probably take a beating at first glance. Having the ability to secure and enclose the string lights is a nice touch. 

What We Liked

• Easy to use
• Multiple brightness settings
• Can expand the length of lights to your needs
• Solar charging capability

What We Didn’t Like

• There’s a really good chance that, when packed, the lights can inadvertently be turned on by accident.

Is The Luci String Light Waterproof?

No, the Luci string light is water/splash resistant, as stated in the product details on MPOWERD’S website. It can probably be used in light rainy conditions, but it’s not completely waterproof.

How Do You Charge Your Mobile Phone?

Lift the plastic tab and insert your charging cable via the USB-A port on the side of the unit. Plug the other end of the charging cable into your mobile device.

How Do You Charge The Luci Solar String Light?

There are two ways to charge the Luci solar string light:

• Solar: Place the device with the solar panel facing direct sunlight. That’s it. After a couple of hours, you can click the battery level indicator button to check the status.
• Micro-USB: For a quicker charge, use the internal micro-USB port.

Summary

If you’re looking for affordable lighting with a solar charging option for your next camping trip, the Luci Solar String Lights are great. With 18 ft of nylon-braided cord, 10 light nodes, and 100 lumens of brightness, these lights are bright enough to cast a nice light and atmosphere for camping.

You can also charge them via solar panel or micro-USB, making them easy to keep powered up.

The Luci Solar String Lights also have an external flashlight, and 3 LED brightness modes (low, medium, and high).

Whether your car camping, hiking or throwing a backyard dinner, the Luci solar string lights will bring that ambiance at an affordable price.