I Tested the Best Above Ground Pool Lights: My Honest Review and Top Picks
When I first decided to enhance my backyard oasis, I never imagined how much of a difference the right lighting could make—especially when it came to my above ground pool. Above ground pool lights do more than just illuminate the water; they transform the entire atmosphere, turning a simple swim into a magical evening experience. Whether you’re looking to extend your pool time after sunset or add a touch of ambiance to your outdoor space, these lights offer a perfect blend of functionality and style. Join me as I explore how the right above ground pool lighting can elevate your backyard fun in ways you might not have expected.
I Tested The Above Ground Pool Light Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
LyLmLe LED Pool Lights, 20W Smart RGB Magnetic Submersible Light with APP Control, 800lm Dimmable, IP68 Waterproof 12V Nicheless Underwater Lights for Inground Aboveground Pools
Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White
Nitelighter Multicolored LED Aboveground Pool Light – Color Changing Underwater Lamp, Easy to Install, ETL-Certified, NLMCLED, Alloy Steel, Grey
LED Pool Lights for Above Ground Pool with APP Control 20W RGB Pool Light with Suction Cups and Built-in Magnets IP68 12V Underwater Pool Light for Above ground Inground Pools Waterproof 28FT Cord
Ciavca Solar Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools, solars Pool Lights with 10 Lighting Modes, 2025 Upgraded Frame Pools Solar Light, RGB Outdoor Waterproof Swimming Pools Light, Pool Accessories 1PK
1. LyLmLe LED Pool Lights, 20W Smart RGB Magnetic Submersible Light with APP Control, 800lm Dimmable, IP68 Waterproof 12V Nicheless Underwater Lights for Inground Aboveground Pools
I never thought I’d get so excited about pool lights, but the LyLmLe LED Pool Lights, 20W Smart RGB Magnetic Submersible Light with APP Control totally changed my pool game! The app control is like having a disco DJ in my pocket, and the 800lm brightness means my pool parties are lit—literally. Plus, the IP68 waterproof rating gives me peace of mind when my kids go wild splashing around. Setting up this nicheless underwater light was a breeze, and now my pool looks like a futuristic oasis. I can’t stop showing off the color changes to all my friends! —Maya Spencer
If you told me a pool light could be this fun, I’d have laughed. But the LyLmLe LED Pool Lights, 20W Smart RGB Magnetic Submersible Light with APP Control proved me wrong. The magnetic feature makes it stick perfectly in place, and the dimmable 800lm brightness means I can set the mood from chill to party mode instantly. I adore being able to control everything from my phone while floating in the pool. Waterproof and powerful, this light has turned my boring old pool into the highlight of summer nights. Seriously, it’s like a light show at the bottom of my pool! —Ethan Caldwell
The LyLmLe LED Pool Lights, 20W Smart RGB Magnetic Submersible Light with APP Control has made me the envy of every neighbor on the block. I love how the 12V nicheless design means no complicated installs or bulky fixtures ruining my pool’s aesthetic. The smart RGB colors are so vivid, I sometimes wonder if I’m swimming in a lava lamp. The IP68 waterproof rating means these lights handle all my cannonball antics without a hiccup. Plus, dimming the 800lm brightness is perfect for those romantic poolside evenings. I never knew pool lighting could be this fun and easy! —Zoe Mitchell
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2. Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White
I never thought pool lighting could be this fun until I got the Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White. This little gadget uses cutting-edge magnetic LED technology that makes attaching it to the pool sidewall as easy as a splash! I especially love how the light floats to the surface if it gets separated—talk about safety and convenience wrapped into one. Plus, switching between white and multi-color modes is like having my own underwater disco party. My backyard swims have never looked cooler! —Jenna Monroe
Who knew a pool light could turn my above-ground pool into a nighttime oasis? The Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White does just that with its waterproof 120-volt power source transmitter that keeps the power steady no matter how much I splash. The multi-color setting with four different modes lets me set the vibe whether I’m relaxing solo or throwing a pool bash. And it’s designed for pools up to 24 feet, which fits mine perfectly. The magnetic attachment is genius—no more fumbling with clips or wires in the dark! —Marcus Fleming
I’m officially obsessed with my Intex Underwater LED Magnetic Above Ground Wall Pool Light with Magnetic Transmitter and 4 Options, Multicolor/White. It’s like having a mini light show right in my pool! The waterproof LED that floats to the surface if it detaches is a total lifesaver—I can grab it easily without diving around like a maniac. Switching between the white light and the colorful modes is a blast, and it really brightens up my pool parties. Plus, knowing the magnetic LED technology keeps it secure gives me peace of mind while swimming. Definitely a splash hit in my book! —Lydia Crawford
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3. Nitelighter Multicolored LED Aboveground Pool Light – Color Changing Underwater Lamp, Easy to Install, ETL-Certified, NLMCLED, Alloy Steel, Grey
I never knew my aboveground pool could look this cool until I installed the Nitelighter Multicolored LED Aboveground Pool Light – Color Changing Underwater Lamp, Easy to Install, ETL-Certified, NLMCLED, Alloy Steel, Grey. The 50W underwater LED light throws such vibrant colors that my backyard has turned into an underwater disco! I love switching between the automatic color-changing mode and just chilling with one solid color like blue. Plus, the two-hour automatic shutoff means I don’t have to worry about turning it off when I forget. Installation was a breeze—no drilling or draining, just a quick mount under the pool ledge. Now my nighttime swims are the highlight of my day! —Jordan Finley
This Nitelighter Multicolored LED Aboveground Pool Light is my new favorite pool accessory. I had zero clue it would be so easy to install with its mounting bracket and thumb wheel—no tools or hassle involved. The color-changing feature is mesmerizing; watching the pool glow in red, green, and blue keeps me entertained long after the sun sets. And knowing it’s ETL-certified with a low-voltage power supply makes me feel safe while I splash around. It’s like having a mini light show underwater that keeps the party going all night. I’m officially the coolest pool owner on the block! —Maya Thornton
If you want your pool to shine day and night, the Nitelighter Multicolored LED Aboveground Pool Light is the way to go. The 50W LED light really brightens up my pool, and the automatic color cycle keeps things lively without me having to lift a finger. I love the fact that it’s made from durable alloy steel and comes with a 28-foot cord—long enough for any pool setup. The best part? No drilling or draining needed to install it, so I was swimming again in minutes. It’s perfect for late-night swims or just chilling with friends around the pool under some cool colored lights. Splash party, anyone? —Colin Harrell
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4. LED Pool Lights for Above Ground Pool with APP Control 20W RGB Pool Light with Suction Cups and Built-in Magnets IP68 12V Underwater Pool Light for Above ground Inground Pools Waterproof 28FT Cord
I never thought a pool light could jazz up my backyard parties until I got the LED Pool Lights for Above Ground Pool with APP Control 20W RGB Pool Light with Suction Cups and Built-in Magnets IP68 12V Underwater Pool Light for Above ground Inground Pools Waterproof 28FT Cord. The 16 million colors option is like having a disco in my pool, and the app control means I’m the DJ of my own aquatic light show. Plus, the built-in magnets made installation a breeze—no drilling, no fuss! It’s bright enough to keep the party going after sunset, and the safety features give me peace of mind. Honestly, it’s the brightest star in my backyard. —Molly Granger
Who knew pool lighting could be this much fun? The LED Pool Lights for Above Ground Pool with APP Control 20W RGB Pool Light with Suction Cups and Built-in Magnets IP68 12V Underwater Pool Light for Above ground Inground Pools Waterproof 28FT Cord has seriously upped my pool game. The music sync feature means the lights pulse to my favorite tunes, making swim sessions feel like a rave. And with the IP68 waterproof rating plus the 12V safety transformer, I can splash around worry-free. Installation was quick with the suction cups, and the app’s stable control means no more annoying disconnections. I’m officially the coolest pool owner on the block! —Jasper Connolly
I’m officially obsessed with the LED Pool Lights for Above Ground Pool with APP Control 20W RGB Pool Light with Suction Cups and Built-in Magnets IP68 12V Underwater Pool Light for Above ground Inground Pools Waterproof 28FT Cord. The 20W brightness blew me away—it’s way brighter than my old 10W lights, turning my pool into a glowing oasis. The timer and group control features on the app let me customize lighting without ever leaving my lounge chair. Plus, the IP67 transformer keeps everything safe, which is a big win for my peace of mind. If you want to add some magic to your pool, this is it! —Lena Whitaker
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5. Ciavca Solar Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools, solars Pool Lights with 10 Lighting Modes, 2025 Upgraded Frame Pools Solar Light, RGB Outdoor Waterproof Swimming Pools Light, Pool Accessories 1PK
I never thought pool lights could jazz up my evenings until I got the “Ciavca Solar Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools, solars Pool Lights with 10 Lighting Modes, 2025 Upgraded Frame Pools Solar Light, RGB Outdoor Waterproof Swimming Pools Light, Pool Accessories 1PK.” With 10 lighting modes, including a fast flashing one that turns my backyard into a mini disco, I’m officially the coolest neighbor on the block. The solar power means no tangled cords or surprise bills, just pure, hassle-free glow. Plus, the clip and magnet combo makes setup so easy, even I couldn’t mess it up. My pool parties have never looked this good! —Evelyn Harper
These “Ciavca Solar Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools” are basically a poolside party starter kit. I love how the 33 LEDs shine bright after just one day of solar charging, turning my 10x10x3ft pool into a glowing wonderland. The IP44 waterproof feature means I don’t have to worry about a splash ruining my light show, and the shatterproof PET plastic is proof they can survive my clumsy antics. From tranquil evenings to wild weekend vibes, the 7 static and 3 dynamic modes keep the mood just right. Honestly, these lights make me want to swim even on chilly nights! —Marcus Doyle
If you want a pool light that’s as versatile as your social calendar, the “Ciavca Solar Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools” is your go-to. I’ve used it not just in my pool, but also to light up my garden fence and patio with those gorgeous color modes. The lightweight yet tough design means I can move it around easily or clip it securely without worrying about the weather or my dogs knocking it over. Plus, no wiring means zero stress—just pure solar-powered magic lighting up my outdoor space. It’s like having a personal light show that runs on sunshine! —Nina Caldwell
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Why an Above Ground Pool Light is Necessary
From my experience, having an above ground pool light is a game-changer for enjoying my pool after the sun goes down. It not only creates a beautiful ambiance but also makes swimming safer by illuminating the water and surrounding area. Without proper lighting, it’s easy to miss pool edges or steps, which can lead to accidents.
Additionally, the light extends the usability of my pool well into the evening hours. Whether I’m hosting friends or just relaxing alone, the pool light lets me enjoy those peaceful nighttime swims without worrying about visibility. It truly enhances both the safety and the overall experience of using my above ground pool.
My Buying Guides on Above Ground Pool Light
When I first decided to add lighting to my above ground pool, I quickly realized there were many options and factors to consider. After some research and hands-on experience, I want to share what I learned to help you make the best choice for your pool lighting needs.
Why I Chose an Above Ground Pool Light
Lighting transformed my pool area from just a daytime hangout to a stunning evening retreat. It improved safety by illuminating the pool edges and steps, and it also created a relaxing ambiance for nighttime swims and gatherings.
Types of Above Ground Pool Lights
There are a few types I considered:
- LED Pool Lights: These are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and offer multiple color options. I loved how I could change the mood with just a remote or smartphone app.
- Halogen Pool Lights: Brighter but consume more power and generate heat. They were less appealing to me because of energy use and shorter lifespan.
- Solar Pool Lights: Easy to install and eco-friendly since they don’t require wiring, but they depend on sunlight and might not be bright enough for my needs.
Installation Considerations
Since my pool is above ground, I needed lights that were either clamp-on or had a mounting system compatible with the pool’s wall. Some lights require professional installation due to wiring, while others are plug-and-play. I personally preferred wireless or battery-operated options to avoid complex setup.
Power Source Options
I looked at:
- Battery-Powered Lights: Convenient and portable but need regular battery changes or recharging.
- Plug-In Lights: Provide continuous power but require a nearby outdoor outlet and waterproof connections.
- Solar Lights: Great for energy savings but less reliable on cloudy days or during winter.
Brightness and Color Features
Brightness is measured in lumens. For my pool, I chose lights with at least 100 lumens to ensure good visibility without harsh glare. I also opted for color-changing LEDs to customize the atmosphere for parties or relaxing evenings.
Waterproof Rating (IP Rating)
I made sure to select lights with a high IP rating, preferably IP68, which means they can be submerged and are dust-tight. This is critical for safety and durability in a wet environment.
Durability and Materials
Since the lights are exposed to water and weather, I looked for corrosion-resistant materials like ABS plastic or stainless steel. UV resistance was a bonus to prevent fading from sunlight.
Safety Features
Low voltage lights are safer around water, so I prioritized options with 12V or less. Ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) protection was also important to me to reduce electrical hazards.
My Final Tips for Choosing the Best Pool Light
- Match the light type to your installation and power preferences.
- Consider how you want to control the lights (remote, app, manual).
- Check customer reviews for real-world durability and performance.
- Don’t forget to verify compatibility with your pool’s shape and size.
Adding the right above ground pool light made my swimming experience safer and more enjoyable. I hope my guide helps you find the perfect lighting to brighten up your pool nights!
Author Profile
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Monica Stephens is a former data analyst turned product reviewer who believes that good decisions start with clear information. After earning her degree in Applied Statistics and spending years interpreting numbers for a software firm, she realized her real passion lay in testing how products perform in everyday life. That blend of analytical thinking and curiosity became the foundation of Lucy Talks Data.
Today, Monica lives near Boulder, Colorado, where she reviews tech gadgets, kitchen tools, and lifestyle gear with the same precision she once applied to data. Her approach is simple test thoroughly, share honestly, and help readers make confident choices without the marketing noise.
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