External garden/path 12v lighting

[Canardly]

Anyone have any experience of these systems? Prices seem to vary enormously for the same type of equipment and it seems most have connections and cabling which are proprietary. A couple of examples are Easy fit which seem to be very reasonably priced and are stocked by some leading suppliers with a three year guarantee.  Whereas Techmar are significantly more expensive for what similar kit but with a five year guarantee. Most advertised systems are also IP44 rated which is not waterproof.

https://www.lighting-direct.co.uk/outdoor/easy-fit-lights.html
https://www.gardenlightshop.com/34-techmar-alder-light-bundles-kits

[Kim]

No, but it seems prudent to anticipate the failure of LED lamps within a frustratingly short time-frame, and have a maintenance strategy that doesn't involve replacing the entire system because you can't get new ones with the right proprietary connectors. 

[robgul]

Does the area have enough exposure to light (not just bright sunlight) to consider solar?   

We have 4 cheapie from Amazon solar lights on a fence at the front of the house that work all year round - they are darkness & movement activated with the exception of 1 right by the pavement that is just darkness activated and stays on all night (i.e. it seems to get enough light during the day even in the depths of winter to run all night)   Simple installation with no wiring!

We also have some small LED lights in a string of about 20 from a 12v transformer in the house (running on a Hive plug/socket timer) in a wall of timber cladding - wiring runs behind it all and in the event of failure of a lamp it's easy replacement as they all just daisy chain together.  From here: https://www.valuelights.co.uk/minisun-pack-of-20-15mm-white-led-indoor-outdoor-plinth-lights   - Minisun lights

[Canardly]

I did consider Solar but experience to date has not been that good really.  I really want path/patio edges illuminated or at least demarcated for the Mrs. There should be no reason why a low power system should not be reliable its just a  case of finding it.  Toolstation do some simple Luceco systems but x compatibily is unknown as is expandability/provision of more sophisticated switching gear.  Luceco is a mainstream brand. I may try one of these in the short term.