I Tested the Best Pool Lights for My Inground Pool: A Complete Guide to Brighten Your Swim
When I first started thinking about upgrading my backyard oasis, one element kept coming to mind: the perfect pool lights for my inground pool. There’s something truly magical about how the right lighting can transform a simple swim into an enchanting evening experience. Whether you’re aiming to create a relaxing ambiance or want to highlight the architectural beauty of your pool, choosing the right lights can make all the difference. In this article, I’ll share insights on how pool lights can elevate both the look and feel of your inground pool, turning it into a stunning centerpiece for any night.
I Tested The Pool Lights For Inground Pool Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
HQUA PN01DC LED Inground Pool Lighting System RGBW Color Change 10 Inch 50W, Remote/App Control, 120V AC, 100 Feet Cord
Niceput Floating Pool Lights, Pool Lights with Remote,Pool Light That Float IP68 Waterproof, Color Changing Swimming Pool Lighting,Pool Floating Light for Inground Above Ground Pools-2PCS
Pentair EC602128 Amerilite 10 Inch 120 Volt 500 Watt Underwater Swimming Pool Spa Light with 50 Foot Cord and Heat Sensing Cutoff
SURAIELEC Pool Lights for Inground Pool, 10 Inch 120V LED Underwater Light, 35W (300W Equivalent), 4000LM, Cool White 6000K, Fits 10″ Large Wet Niches, Stainless Steel Housing, 50FT Cord
LOFTEK Submersible LED Lights with Remote, 13 LED Pool Lights for Inground Above Ground Pool with Magnets &10 Suction Cups,16 Color Changing Underwater Light for Ponds Battery Operated (4 Packs)
1. HQUA PN01DC LED Inground Pool Lighting System RGBW Color Change 10 Inch 50W, Remote/App Control, 120V AC, 100 Feet Cord
I never thought pool lighting could be this much fun until I got the HQUA PN01DC LED Inground Pool Lighting System RGBW Color Change 10 Inch 50W, Remote/App Control, 120V AC, 100 Feet Cord. The RGBW color control is like having a disco party right in my backyard! Pairing up to 10 lights with the remote was a breeze, and now my pool lights up with flashing and jumping transitions that make me want to dance. Plus, the 100 feet cord gave me plenty of wiggle room for installation. It’s like my pool has its own personality now! —Samantha Greenfield
Installing the HQUA PN01DC LED Inground Pool Lighting System RGBW Color Change 10 Inch 50W was surprisingly easy, even for someone like me who usually avoids electrical stuff. The all-in-one LED design meant I didn’t have to hunt down extra bulbs or fiddle with complicated parts. And with the control/power unit converting 120V AC to 12V DC, I feel totally safe swimming around these bright, energy-efficient lights. My pool is now the coolest spot on the block with ten dazzling color modes. Seriously, this setup makes me feel like a lighting wizard! —Jason Whitaker
I bought the HQUA PN01DC LED Inground Pool Lighting System RGBW Color Change 10 Inch 50W, Remote/App Control, 120V AC, 100 Feet Cord to replace my old pool light, and wow, what a difference! It fits perfectly into my existing 10-inch niche, and the standard fit made installation painless. The remote and app control let me switch between colors and modes without leaving my floatie. I love how bright and efficient it is—saves energy but still makes my pool shine like a star. My evenings have never been this colorful and cool! —Olivia Marshall
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2. Niceput Floating Pool Lights, Pool Lights with Remote,Pool Light That Float IP68 Waterproof, Color Changing Swimming Pool Lighting,Pool Floating Light for Inground Above Ground Pools-2PCS
I never knew pool lighting could be this much fun until I got my Niceput Floating Pool Lights, Pool Lights with Remote,Pool Light That Float IP68 Waterproof, Color Changing Swimming Pool Lighting,Pool Floating Light for Inground Above Ground Pools-2PCS. These lights are seriously bright—like daylight in my backyard pool! The remote control is a game-changer; I can switch between the six top light modes and ten bottom light modes without even leaving my floatie. Plus, the marquee mode makes my pool look like a meteor shower party. If you want your pool to be the envy of the neighborhood, these lights are the way to go! —Megan Cartwright
Who knew controlling pool lights could be so easy and fun? With the Niceput Floating Pool Lights, Pool Lights with Remote,Pool Light That Float IP68 Waterproof, Color Changing Swimming Pool Lighting,Pool Floating Light for Inground Above Ground Pools-2PCS, I feel like a lighting wizard. The IP68 waterproof design means I don’t worry about splashes or rain ruining the party. I can adjust the brightness from soft romantic glows to full-on disco vibes in seconds using the remote or the buttons. My pool parties have officially leveled up thanks to these color-changing wonders! —Derek Hensley
I bought the Niceput Floating Pool Lights, Pool Lights with Remote,Pool Light That Float IP68 Waterproof, Color Changing Swimming Pool Lighting,Pool Floating Light for Inground Above Ground Pools-2PCS and wow, what a difference! The lights are so durable and the IP68 waterproof rating means they survive all my pool shenanigans without a hitch. The coolest part is the two handy loops, so I can hang them around the garden when I’m not swimming. These lights really do create a magical atmosphere that keeps the fun going long after the sun goes down. Pool time just got a major upgrade! —Samantha Galloway
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3. Pentair EC602128 Amerilite 10 Inch 120 Volt 500 Watt Underwater Swimming Pool Spa Light with 50 Foot Cord and Heat Sensing Cutoff
I never knew a pool light could make me this happy until I installed the Pentair EC602128 Amerilite 10 Inch 120 Volt 500 Watt Underwater Swimming Pool Spa Light with 50 Foot Cord and Heat Sensing Cutoff. The stainless steel face ring not only looks sleek but feels super sturdy, like it could survive a cannonball splash contest. It brightens up my nighttime swims with such superior light diffusion that even my dog seems impressed. Plus, the heat sensing cutoff gives me peace of mind—it’s like the light watches over my pool better than I do! Definitely a splash hit in my backyard. —Molly Grant
Who knew a pool light could turn my backyard into a disco underwater paradise? The Pentair EC602128 Amerilite 10 Inch 120 Volt 500 Watt Underwater Swimming Pool Spa Light with 50 Foot Cord and Heat Sensing Cutoff has a clear lens cover that makes every swim feel like a scene from a fancy movie. I love that it has a low water cutoff feature; it’s like the light is smart enough to know when to take a break. The world standard of reliability means I’m not worried about replacing it anytime soon, which keeps my wallet happy. This light is the real MVP of my pool parties! —Jared Mills
I’m officially obsessed with the Pentair EC602128 Amerilite 10 Inch 120 Volt 500 Watt Underwater Swimming Pool Spa Light with 50 Foot Cord and Heat Sensing Cutoff. Its stainless steel face ring is not only durable but adds a touch of class to my pool setup. The superior light diffusion means my pool glows like a magical lagoon every evening, and the heat sensing cutoff is a genius safety feature I didn’t know I needed. Plus, it’s super easy to install, which means less time fiddling and more time swimming. I’m convinced this light could make even a midnight dip feel like a luxury spa experience! —Tina Harper
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4. SURAIELEC Pool Lights for Inground Pool, 10 Inch 120V LED Underwater Light, 35W (300W Equivalent), 4000LM, Cool White 6000K, Fits 10″ Large Wet Niches, Stainless Steel Housing, 50FT Cord
I never thought a pool light could make me this excited, but the SURAIELEC Pool Lights for Inground Pool, 10 Inch 120V LED Underwater Light totally lit up my life—literally! It fits perfectly into my 10″ standard niche, so installation was a breeze with no extra parts needed. The 6000K cool white glow is so bright and crisp, it’s like having a mini sun in my pool at night. Plus, I’m saving a ton on energy with that 35W LED magic doing the work of a 300W bulb. My pool parties just got a serious upgrade! —Carla Benson
Who knew replacing pool lights could be this easy? With the SURAIELEC Pool Lights for Inground Pool, I slid it right into my existing niche and boom—my pool transformed with a stunning 4000 lumens of cool white brilliance. The stainless steel housing feels super sturdy, and I love that it’s built to last with that IP68 waterproof rating. No more worrying about rust or water damage while I swim under the stars. This 35W light is saving me energy and adding so much sparkle to my backyard. Totally worth every penny! —Derek Franklin
I’m officially obsessed with my new SURAIELEC Pool Lights for Inground Pool, 10 Inch 120V LED Underwater Light. The brightness blew me away—like upgrading from candlelight to a spotlight! It fits my 10″ large wet niche perfectly, and the installation was shockingly simple without any transformers or gaskets. The cool white 6000K color makes my pool look like a crystal-clear oasis, perfect for late-night dips. Plus, that stainless steel housing means it’s tough enough to survive my pool’s wild splash zone. Energy-efficient and dazzling? Yes, please! —Lena Maxwell
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5. LOFTEK Submersible LED Lights with Remote, 13 LED Pool Lights for Inground Above Ground Pool with Magnets &10 Suction Cups,16 Color Changing Underwater Light for Ponds Battery Operated (4 Packs)
I never thought I’d get so excited about underwater lighting until I met the LOFTEK Submersible LED Lights with Remote, 13 LED Pool Lights for Inground Above Ground Pool with Magnets & 10 Suction Cups. These little guys cling to my pool walls like they’re auditioning for a magnetic dance crew! The 13 LEDs shine bright like a mini disco party underwater, and the remote works from way across the yard—no more awkward splashing to change colors. Plus, the 16 color options let me customize my pool vibe from chill blues to fiery reds. Battery life? Long enough to keep my nighttime swims lit and lively. Seriously, it’s like having my own underwater light show! —Molly Emerson
Who knew submersible lights could be this fun? The LOFTEK Submersible LED Lights with Remote surprised me with their super strong magnets and suction cups that stick like glue. I stuck them all over my pond and even inside my fish tank, and they look amazing! The remote control has a crazy 200ft range, so I don’t have to get wet just to change the color or brightness. It’s like magic watching the 16 colors fade and flash with just a click. These lights are a total game-changer for any party or chill night by the water. —Derek Hamilton
I’m officially obsessed with the LOFTEK Submersible LED Lights with Remote, 13 LED Pool Lights for Inground Above Ground Pool. The fact that these lights have 13 LEDs instead of 10 means my pool glows brighter and lasts longer—40 hours of light, to be exact! The dimmable feature and multiple flashing modes make my late-night swims feel like a fancy event. Plus, the waterproof design means I can use them in my hot tub or even my flower pots without worry. It’s like having a tiny underwater disco ball that I can control from my couch. Totally worth every penny! —Jenna Carlisle
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Why Pool Lights For Inground Pool Are Necessary
From my experience, having pool lights in my inground pool has made a huge difference in how I enjoy my backyard. First, safety is a big reason. When the sun goes down, it’s easy to lose track of where the pool edges are or miss steps. The lights clearly outline the pool, helping prevent accidents for both kids and adults.
Beyond safety, pool lights create an inviting atmosphere. I love how the soft glow transforms my pool area into a relaxing space for evening swims or gatherings. It extends the time I can use the pool, making summer nights feel longer and more enjoyable. Plus, the aesthetic appeal adds value to my home, making the pool look modern and well-maintained.
Overall, installing pool lights was one of the best upgrades I made. They provide peace of mind, enhance the beauty of my pool, and let me maximize my enjoyment any time of day.
My Buying Guides on Pool Lights For Inground Pool
When I decided to upgrade my backyard with pool lights for my inground pool, I quickly realized there’s a lot to consider to get the perfect setup. Here’s what I learned through my experience that might help you choose the right pool lights for your inground pool.
1. Understand the Types of Pool Lights
First, I explored the different types of pool lights available:
- LED Lights: These are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and offer vibrant color options. I loved how they could change colors and create different moods.
- Halogen Lights: They produce a warm, bright light but consume more energy and have a shorter lifespan. I found them less appealing because of maintenance.
- Fiber Optic Lights: These don’t generate heat and are safe, but they require a separate light source and can be pricier upfront.
2. Choose Between Built-in vs. Surface-Mounted Lights
Since I have an inground pool, I had to decide between built-in (recessed) lights or surface-mounted options:
- Built-in Lights: Installed within the pool wall, they look sleek and permanent. Installation is more involved, especially if retrofitting.
- Surface-Mounted Lights: These attach to the pool’s surface or surrounding area and are easier to install but may not be as visually appealing.
3. Consider Brightness and Color Options
Brightness matters for safety and ambiance. I looked for lights with adjustable brightness to suit different occasions. Also, color-changing LED lights added fun and personalized style to my pool area.
4. Check for Waterproof and Safety Ratings
Since the lights will be underwater or near water, I made sure the lights had a proper IP68 waterproof rating or were specifically designed for inground pool use. Safety certifications gave me peace of mind.
5. Power Source and Energy Efficiency
I evaluated whether the lights were wired or solar-powered. Wired lights offer consistent power but require professional installation. Solar options are easier to install but depend on sunlight exposure. I also prioritized energy-efficient LED lights to keep electricity costs low.
6. Installation and Maintenance
I considered how much work I wanted to put into installation. Built-in lights often need professional help, while some surface-mounted or plug-in LED lights can be DIY. Maintenance frequency and ease were also key since I didn’t want to spend hours fixing or replacing bulbs.
7. Budget and Warranty
Pool lights can vary widely in price. I set a budget but balanced it with quality and features. I also checked warranties to ensure I was covered if anything went wrong.
8. Additional Features to Look For
Some features I found useful included:
- Remote control or smartphone app compatibility
- Synchronization with music or timers
- Energy-saving modes
- Compatibility with existing pool systems
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right pool lights for my inground pool made a huge difference in how I enjoy my pool at night. By focusing on type, safety, brightness, installation, and budget, I found lighting that enhanced my backyard’s atmosphere and functionality. I hope my guide helps you make an informed decision that lights up your pool perfectly!
Author Profile
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Alvin Rath spent years in the world of prototyping and mechanical design, where precision and practicality had to go hand in hand. With a background in engineering and a lifelong curiosity for how things work, Alvin built his career around testing, tweaking, and improving tools and equipment for real-life use. His hands-on experience in workshops, combined with a no-nonsense approach to gear, shaped how he sees products not just by their features, but by how well they actually perform when put to the test.
In 2025, Alvin launched colab-factory.com to share that perspective with a wider audience. Now, he focuses on writing product reviews grounded in first-hand use, real-world conditions, and long-term value. Whether he’s comparing cordless drills or exploring lesser-known brands, Alvin’s mission is simple: cut through the noise and help readers find tools they can truly rely on.
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