Permanent Outdoor Lights for Homes: Who They Suit and Which Sets Are Recommended
Tech outlet Wired has assessed permanent outdoor string lights that attach to a home's eaves. Govee and Eufy sets are named the top picks, while Cync is the best affordable option.
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Technology publication Wired updated its guide to permanent outdoor lights in October 2026. These are smart string lights fixed to the outside of a house and left up all year, so owners don't have to climb a ladder every holiday season. The guide helps readers decide whether the considerable cost and effort are worthwhile.
What they are
The lights are strings of small light pucks that connect to an app and allow custom color control, much like smart Christmas lights such as Twinkly ($125) and Philips Hue ($220). They can be attached with adhesive tabs or screws. Some higher-end brands, including JellyFish and Gemstone, are sold for professional installation only.
Which homes suit them
The lights work best on homes with accessible, preferably flat eaves that can hide the thick cords, plus access to an outlet, ideally an outdoor one. Installation is harder, or may need a professional, on homes with stucco exteriors, no eaves, cross-style eaves or three stories without lower eaves. Townhomes and condominiums that prohibit permanent exterior changes can also be problematic.
What to look for
Wired highlights the ability to cut and splice the string to fit a roofline, a weatherproofing rating, several mounting options, control over individual lights and a good app.
Recommended sets
The best overall pick is Govee's set ($300, 100 feet), rated IP67, with an IP65 control box. The other recommended option is the Eufy S4 ($350, 100 feet), whose app offers 120 preset holiday scenes. The best affordable choice is Cync ($117, 100 feet). Wired will also test the updated Govee Permanent Outdoor Lights 2 Pro ($280) this fall.