It is unfortunate that most people's experience with inexpensive solar lighting happens at mass retail outlets.  By paying just a bit more you gain a large amount in performance and quality.  

A good example of this is the Arlinghous series.  They are engineered in Germany where they take their solar power seriously.

These cost about $40 with shipping as opposed to about $15 for bargain basement lights.  However, they are well worth it for performance as well as appearance.

With bargain basement lights you get 4-5 hours of light with 4-5 hours of sun.  With the Arlinghous series you get 6-8 hours of light with only 2-3 hours of sun.  The reaon is a better quality, larger solar panel and better batteries.

On top of this the light is made mostly from stainless steel and hold up to weather very well.  These lights will last many years with new batteries every 2 or 3 years. 

The EuroLight series also offers good performance for about $20 each.