What It Is and Key Specs
The addlon 100FT ST38 string lights ship as a single 50-foot strand with 30 sockets — the "100FT" in the name reflects the maximum run when two strands are linked — though the official addlon storefront lists a 50+2 bulb configuration (50 sockets plus two spares) depending on the variant. Bulbs are ST38-style E12 base LEDs in a shatter-resistant plastic shell designed to mimic the warm glow of traditional Edison filament lights.
According to the user manual published on Manuals+, the strand carries an IP65 waterproof rating, meaning it is protected against dust ingress and low-pressure water jets from any direction — suitable for rain, wind, and snow across all seasons. The remote operates at a maximum range of 50 feet and handles on/off switching, stepless brightness dimming, a timer, and three modes (steady-on plus two flash patterns). Up to four strands can be daisy-chained from one plug, extending coverage to 200 feet — a practical feature for larger patios, pergolas, and backyard layouts.
Replacement ST38 E12 bulbs, 6-foot extension cords, and a compatible remote/adapter are all available separately under addlon's own ASINs, which is a useful detail for long-term ownership.
Build Quality and Safety
The shatter-resistant plastic bulb construction is a meaningful practical difference from glass alternatives in high-traffic outdoor settings — around children, pets, or on decks where a knocked strand could otherwise leave dangerous debris. The IP65 rating, sourced from the official user manual, places this a step above basic "weather-resistant" marketing language and suggests genuine protection for year-round outdoor installation.
On safety certification: no CPSC recall record names this specific addlon model as of July 24, 2026. However, that absence is not a verified all-clear. The CPSC has issued recalls for other LED products sold on Amazon, and shoppers who want independent third-party certification (UL, ETL, or similar) should confirm current listing documentation before purchasing, as that information was not available in the sources reviewed here.
Addlon's listing states a one-year quality support guarantee, while the brand's own website references a three-year product support policy for some of its LED string light lines. Buyers should confirm which term applies to this specific SKU at the time of purchase.
Remote Control and Smart Features
The remote is one of this strand's clearest differentiators in the outdoor string light category. Rather than requiring a separate smart plug or app, the bundled remote handles dimming, mode switching, and timer functions out of the box. Timer options allow the lights to shut off automatically — a convenience that also reduces energy consumption overnight.
The three lighting modes (steady-on plus flashing variants) cover both ambient entertaining and task lighting needs. One remote governs all connected strands simultaneously, so a four-strand, 200-foot installation is still managed from a single point of control.
Real-World Fit — Who It Suits, Who Should Skip
These lights are well matched for homeowners and renters who want plug-and-play outdoor ambiance without running smart home infrastructure. The remote-and-timer combination suits anyone who wants set-it-and-forget-it convenience, and the connectable design rewards buyers with larger spaces like wraparound decks, pergolas, or garden paths.
The retro ST38 bulb profile will appeal to buyers who want a warm, vintage-inspired look. Those seeking cool-white or color-changing LEDs should look elsewhere — this lineup is built around the classic amber aesthetic.
Buyers with very large permanent installations who prefer hardwired or low-voltage landscape lighting systems may find a plug-in strand less suitable. The 50-foot remote range is also a practical ceiling: if your outlet is more than 50 feet from your seating area, the remote loses utility.
Honest Limitations
- Remote range caps at 50 feet. For sprawling properties or long daisy-chained runs, the remote may not reach the outlet area from all seating positions.
- Plastic bulbs, not glass. The shatter-resistant construction trades the premium look and feel of glass for durability — buyers who prioritize authentic Edison aesthetics may notice the difference up close.
- No independent safety certification confirmed in reviewed sources. Third-party listings and independent lab certification (UL/ETL) were not verifiable from available materials.
- Timer and mode specifics are limited in public documentation. The exact timer interval options are not detailed in the sources reviewed, so buyers should check current listing details for precision.
- Stock availability varies. The official addlon storefront noted the 50+2 bulb variant as backordered at time of review; prospective buyers should verify availability for their preferred configuration.
