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Patio umbrellas are an essential feature for backyard entertaining. They let you enjoy the outdoors while providing shade from the sun and protection from the unexpected sprinkle. Fortunately, there are lots of options on the market that can also complement your patio furniture. These umbrellas are designed with a range of features, from stands to solar power and at a variety of price points. We’ve done the work and rounded up the best patio umbrellas on the market so you can get back to kicking back and relaxing.

How we chose the best patio umbrellas

When rounding up the best patio umbrellas, we considered options from a range of brands. We looked for durability, models that could stand up to UV rays and could be used throughout the seasons. In addition, we valued patio umbrellas that were easy to put together and adjustable. We looked for designs that would look at home in a range of decor without looking dated. Extra features such as solar power and LED lights also earned points.

The best patio umbrellas: Reviews & Recommendations

A patio umbrella is a must for those not looking to get fried by the sun during the hottest of summer days. When the weather is scorching the last thing you want to worry about is a bad burn. A patio umbrella creates an environment perfect for larger gatherings, family dinners outside, or sunbathing. With the best patio umbrella your backyard will look inviting while also protecting you and your family and guests from the elements.

Best overall: EAST OAK Patio Umbrella

East Oak

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Specs

  • Materials: Aluminum, metal, polyester
  • Weight: 35.4 pounds (10-foot)
  • Sizes: 9 foot, 10 foot, 10-foot cantilever, 11-foot cantilever

Pros

  • Comes with 40 LED lights
  • Solar-powered
  • Attractive range of designs in 5 colorways
  • Easy setup

Cons

  • Stand is sold separately

If you’re looking for an all-around option that will protect you from the elements come rain or shine, consider the EAST OAK Patio Umbrella. This umbrella is designed with 40 LED lights that are powered by solar energy. (The solar panel provides energy that should last up to 7 hours). What’s more, this model is made of UV-resistant material that also features vents to keep the air flowing and ’s designed to withstand both the sun and rain. It also provides more than 75 square feet of shade coverage, Plus, you can customize, as this umbrella comes in 9-foot, 10-foot and 10-foot, and 11-foot cantilever models and in five colorways. 

Most versatile:  EliteShade Non-Fading Sunumbrella

EliteShade

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Specs

  • Materials: Steel, acrylic 
  • Weight: 17 pounds
  • Sizes: 9 feet, 11 feet, 6 feet by 6 feet, 6.5 feet by 10.5 feet

Pros

  • Classic design
  • UV-resistant
  • Comes in 13 colors

Cons

  • Have to buy base separately 

Finding a patio umbrella to complement an existing set of outdoor furniture can be a challenge, but EliteShade Non-Fading Sunumbrella can make the task easier. This classic-looking umbrella is made with a heavy-duty steel frame that’s rust-resistant. The acrylic fabric of the umbrella itself is strong at 260 GSM (grams per square meter) that protects against the sun and resists fading. The Sunumbrella comes in 9-foot and 11-foot round versions, as well as 6 feet by 6 feet and 6.5 feet by 10.5 feet square and rectangular options. And it’s available in 13 colorways to fit into a range of settlings.

Best with solar power: Sunnydaze 9-Foot Outdoor Patio Market Umbrella with Solar LED Lights

Rinkmo

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Specs

  • Materials: Aluminum, polyester, LED lights
  • Weight: 8 pounds
  • Sizes: 9-foot diameter

Pros

  • Designed with 24 LED solar lights
  • Lightweight
  • Wind-resistant
  • Tiltable

Cons

  • Some users say pole isn’t sturdy

We love this umbrella for the clever light feature it includes. You’ll never have to worry about finding a socket or batteries—simply let this patio umbrella with solar lights rest in the sun, and you’ll be able to brighten up your dinner party. Built from a super-strong aluminum frame, this umbrella is 30% stronger than most patio umbrellas on the market. A high wind resistance means it won’t blow away. It’s easy to handle with a crank that controls opening and closing—plus, it allows you to adjust the shading angle effortlessly, so you can enjoy from any spot.

Best with a stand: PURPLE LEAF 11 Feet Patio Umbrella

PURPLE LEAF

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Specs

  • Materials: Steel, aluminum, polyester
  • Weight: 55 pounds (11 feet)
  • Sizes: 10 feet, 11 feet, 12 feet, 13 feet in diameter

Pros

  • Comes in 4 sizes
  • UV-resistant fabric provides sun protection
  • Choose from 6 heights and angles, with 360-degree rotation

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Stand has to be purchased separately

A patio umbrella with a solid base will give it a great grounding, so it can stay in place for years to come (which will be especially convenient if you’re putting this in an area that’s exposed to all types of weather). This umbrella utilizes a water tank base, meaning you simply need to fill it up to make it heavy. This isn’t exactly the umbrella for those who constantly rearrange furniture, but it’s definitely a good option for the stationary umbrella. You’ll be able to choose from six different heights and angles to perfectly cover all spots of the table. It’s made of high-quality polyester fabric and is UV-resistant. It’s also water-repellent, making it a great add for a patio furniture collection in a humid or rainy area. 

Best with lights: Blissun 9 ft Solar Umbrella

Blissun

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Specs

  • Materials: Aluminum, steel, polyester, LED lights
  • Weight: 14.87
  • Sizes: 9-foot diameter

Pros

  • Comes with 32 LED lights inside umbrella
  • Powered by solar energy 
  • Lasts up to 8 hours on each charge 
  • Affordable
  • Choose from 12 colorways

Cons

  • Some users says LED lights aren’t very bright
  • Other users said fabric was on the flimsy side

This beautiful tiered solar umbrella will illuminate your patio. A sparkling set of lights are embedded into the umbrella to create a cozy ambiance for summer dinners, and it’s simple to control with an on-off switch. (Note that the lights need to charge in the sun for six to seven hours before they can be used.) Plus, this umbrella is easy to assemble and can be tilted with a hand crank.

Best budget: Amazon Basics Umbrella Outdoor Patio Cover

Amazon Basics

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Specs

  • Materials: Polyester, metal
  • Weight: 1.6 pounds
  • Sizes: One (7 x 23 x 76 inches)

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Lightweight
  • Designed for all 4 seasons

Cons

  • Some users find it difficult to use 

Who says you can’t save some money and still get a high-quality production? Amazon Basics has created the perfect budget patio umbrella that does exactly what you need it to: protect you and your table in both sunny and rainy conditions. Best of all, it’s made with woven polyester fabric that has a laminated undercoating so rain doesn’t get through. If you’re looking for bang for your buck, this is the one to get. 

What to consider when getting the best patio umbrellas

Not all umbrellas are created equal. Flimsy umbrellas will blow over the second the wind picks up. Some won’t even fully cover the table or chairs you’re looking to protect from the sun. When picking out the very best patio umbrella, get one suitable for the space it needs to be in and one that has all the functionality you want. 

Are you looking for a solar patio umbrella that will generate power while you’ll enjoy the sun? Perhaps you need a sturdy stand. Taking it on the go? In that case, it’s best to get a portable umbrella. Some will even have lights attached so your summer party can go late into the night. Whatever it is you’re seeking, our guide will help you find the best patio umbrella for your needs.

FAQs

Q: What should I look for in a patio umbrella?

Make sure you get a patio umbrella that is the appropriate size for your space. Be sure to check the umbrella’s diameter to ensure it doesn’t overwhelm your patio. Secondly, think about whether you want a companion for sunbathing or protection for a table full of people enjoying the sunset. Lastly, consider if you want it to have a heavy duty stand or be portable.

Q: Will patio umbrellas protect me from the sun?

All of our recommended patio umbrellas will offer you protection from the sun. But if you’re looking for something heavy-duty, look for an umbrella that’s specifically constructed with UV protection. Cheaper material patio umbrellas sometimes can let UV rays leak in, but the best patio umbrellas will offer you a safe way to hang out outside for hours. 

Q: What is the best patio umbrella for the wind?

When putting a patio umbrella outside, you have to consider the climate. It’s worth looking out for water and windproof umbrellas that won’t blow away in a storm. The best patio umbrella for wind should be sturdy—the sturdier the build, the better the umbrella. Wind-up crank umbrellas are some of the strongest for withstanding blustery days. 

Final thoughts on the best patio umbrellas

Sometimes, it’s a good thing to throw some shade on a situation. Forget about worrying about that little drizzle in the forecast—now that you have all the details on the very best patio umbrellas, you can enjoy your outdoor space like never before. Make it an excuse to add some glamour and a feature to your patio and keep your friends and family shaded and protected. Now, who has the ice bucket? Cheers!

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.