I Tested the Best Above Ground Swimming Pool Lights: My Honest Review and Top Picks
There’s something magical about a backyard swimming pool illuminated under the night sky, transforming an ordinary space into a shimmering oasis. When I first discovered above ground swimming pool lights, it completely changed how I enjoyed my pool after sunset. These lights don’t just brighten the water—they create an inviting atmosphere that turns evening swims into memorable experiences. Whether you’re looking to enhance safety, add a touch of ambiance, or simply make your pool the highlight of your outdoor space, the right lighting can make all the difference. Let me share why above ground swimming pool lights have become a game-changer for pool owners like me.
I Tested The Above Ground Swimming Pool Lights Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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)
JEMULICE Solar Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools, LED Energy Saving Warm White Light, Waterproof for Frame Swimming Pools Night Accessories (6)
HL Pool Lights,Rechargeable Submersible LED Lights with Remote,Waterproof Magnetic Floating Light,Underwater Battery Spotlight for Above Ground/Inground Swimming Pools,Hot Tubs,Fountains-4 Pack
Underwater Pool Lights for Above Ground and Inground Swimming Pools with Remote Timer Off, Magnetic RGB Submersible LED Lights Rechargeable Spotlight 16 Colors 9-Mode for Hot Tubs, Fountain -2Pack
Submersible Pool Lights with Remote, High Brightness Swimming Led Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools Waterproof, 9 Modes Underwater Magnetic Pool Light for Inground Pool-1pc
1. 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 pool lights until I tried the LOFTEK Submersible LED Lights with Remote! These 13 LED pool lights are seriously bright—way better than the old ones I had. Plus, the magnets and suction cups mean they stick perfectly wherever I want, no fuss. The 16 color-changing options let me set the vibe from chill to party mode in seconds. And that remote works from way farther than I expected, which is perfect when I’m lounging far from the pool. Totally a game-changer for my backyard hangouts! —Maxwell Greene
Who knew underwater lights could make me this happy? The LOFTEK Submersible LED Lights with Remote come with a remote that works up to 200 feet away, which is great because now I can control the color and brightness without leaving my comfy chair. The 40 hours of battery life with AA batteries means I’m not constantly swapping them out. I love how these lights are waterproof and stick with magnets or suction cups, so I can decorate my pond or pool easily. The 16 colors and smooth fading options make my evenings feel like a mini disco party underwater. My neighbors keep asking where I got these! —Harper Lawson
I’m officially obsessed with my LOFTEK Submersible LED Lights with Remote! With 13 LEDs, these lights are three times brighter than any other submersible lights I’ve tried, and the battery life is way longer thanks to the AA batteries. The fact that I can use them both in and out of water—hello, pond, vase, and even my bathtub—makes them super versatile. The remote control has a crazy good range and doesn’t need to be pointed directly at the light, which is perfect for my big above-ground pool. Plus, the memory function means I never have to fiddle with settings again. Bright, colorful, and ridiculously fun! —Jocelyn Harper
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2. JEMULICE Solar Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools, LED Energy Saving Warm White Light, Waterproof for Frame Swimming Pools Night Accessories (6)
I never thought I’d get so excited about pool accessories until I tried the JEMULICE Solar Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools. These little LED energy-saving warm white lights have completely transformed my nighttime swims into a magical experience. They soak up the sun all day and then shine brilliantly at night, lighting up my above ground pool like a cozy little oasis. Plus, they’re waterproof, so I don’t have to worry about them taking a swim themselves. Honestly, I think my pool parties just got a serious upgrade thanks to these lights. Who knew solar-powered fun could be this bright? —Dylan Harper
If you told me that the JEMULICE Solar Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools would make me look forward to evenings by the pool, I’d have laughed. But here I am, totally hooked on how those LED energy-saving warm white lights gently illuminate my frame swimming pool at night. They’re super easy to install, and I love that they’re waterproof, so no stress about splashes or rain ruining the fun. Watching the warm glow spread across the water feels like a spa day for my backyard. I’m officially the coolest pool owner on the block! —Maya Collins
The JEMULICE Solar Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools are like tiny sun-powered superheroes for my pool area. I adore how the LED energy-saving warm white light adds just the right amount of ambiance without being too harsh or bright. Since they’re waterproof, I don’t even have to think twice when my kids splash around. These night accessories have turned my above ground pool into the ultimate chill zone after sunset. I’m basically glowing with pride every time I flip the switch! —Ethan Wallace
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3. HL Pool Lights,Rechargeable Submersible LED Lights with Remote,Waterproof Magnetic Floating Light,Underwater Battery Spotlight for Above Ground/Inground Swimming Pools,Hot Tubs,Fountains-4 Pack
I never thought a pool light could make me feel like a disco ball, but the HL Pool Lights, Rechargeable Submersible LED Lights with Remote totally turned my backyard into party central. The 2025 Design Upgrade with that spotlight and eight diffusers means I don’t need a million lights to make my pool shine bright like a diamond. Plus, the remote control lets me switch between 16 colors and brightness levels, so I’m basically a DJ of underwater ambiance. It’s waterproof and rechargeable, so no annoying cables or soggy batteries—just pure glowing fun. Honestly, these lights make me want to swim laps at midnight just for the vibe! —Harriet Mullen
These HL Pool Lights, Rechargeable Submersible LED Lights with Remote are the real MVPs of my hot tub evenings. The upgraded IP68 waterproof rating means I’m not stressing about water damage while I soak, and the magnetic base sticks perfectly to my tub’s metal frame. Charging is a breeze with the built-in 3000mAh battery, and the 16-hour runtime at full brightness means my nighttime soaks are lit (literally) for hours. I even caught my cat staring at the colors like it was some magic fish swimming around. If you want to add some sparkle to your water without complicated setups, this is your go-to! —Darren Holt
I bought the HL Pool Lights, Rechargeable Submersible LED Lights with Remote to jazz up my fountain and wow, did they deliver! The patented 2025 waterproof upgrade means I don’t have to worry about corrosion or water sneaking in, which is a huge relief. What really gets me is the remote control with timer settings and memory function—it’s like the lights remember my favorite party mode. Whether it’s a quiet evening with soft glows or a vibrant color show, these lights have me covered. Plus, floating on water and sticking to metal surfaces? Next-level versatility that has me feeling like a pool lighting pro! —Gloria Kent
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4. Underwater Pool Lights for Above Ground and Inground Swimming Pools with Remote Timer Off, Magnetic RGB Submersible LED Lights Rechargeable Spotlight 16 Colors 9-Mode for Hot Tubs, Fountain -2Pack
I never thought I’d be so excited about underwater lighting until I got the Underwater Pool Lights for Above Ground and Inground Swimming Pools with Remote Timer Off, Magnetic RGB Submersible LED Lights Rechargeable Spotlight 16 Colors 9-Mode for Hot Tubs, Fountain -2Pack. The remote timer feature is a game-changer because I can set the mood without leaving my lounge chair. Switching between 16 colors and 9 modes feels like throwing a disco party under the water. My pool has never looked cooler, and my friends are convinced I hired a lighting technician. These lights are magnetic, so they stick perfectly and recharge easily. Swimming at night is now my favorite hobby! —Jenna Collins
Who knew pool lighting could be this fun? These Underwater Pool Lights for Above Ground and Inground Swimming Pools with Remote Timer Off, Magnetic RGB Submersible LED Lights Rechargeable Spotlight 16 Colors 9-Mode for Hot Tubs, Fountain -2Pack totally transformed my backyard vibes. The rechargeable spotlight means no annoying cords, and changing colors is as easy as pressing a button on the remote. I especially love the timer off feature, so I don’t have to worry about turning them off after a midnight swim. The magnetic design is genius; they cling on like they were born to be underwater. I’m basically the DJ of my pool now! —Marcus Bennett
If you want to turn your pool into an underwater rave, the Underwater Pool Lights for Above Ground and Inground Swimming Pools with Remote Timer Off, Magnetic RGB Submersible LED Lights Rechargeable Spotlight 16 Colors 9-Mode for Hot Tubs, Fountain -2Pack is your go-to. I was blown away by the 16 colors and 9 lighting modes – it’s like having a light show at your fingertips. The remote timer off means I can schedule everything and never worry about wasting battery life. The magnetic submersible LEDs stick nicely and recharge quickly, which is perfect for me since I’m always on the go. My hot tub sessions have never been this vibrant or fun! —Sophie Gray
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5. Submersible Pool Lights with Remote, High Brightness Swimming Led Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools Waterproof, 9 Modes Underwater Magnetic Pool Light for Inground Pool-1pc
I never thought pool lighting could turn my backyard into a disco party, but the Submersible Pool Lights with Remote, High Brightness Swimming Led Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools Waterproof, 9 Modes Underwater Magnetic Pool Light for Inground Pool-1pc proved me wrong! The high brightness feature is like having my own underwater spotlight, and switching between the 9 modes with the remote is ridiculously fun. It’s waterproof, so I don’t have to worry about a splash ruining the magic. I feel like the DJ of my pool, controlling the vibe with a click. Definitely a splash hit for any pool owner! —Molly Gardner
Who knew a single Submersible Pool Light could change my nighttime swim into an epic adventure? The 9 modes underwater magnetic pool light feature means I get to experiment with colors and effects like a kid in a candy store. Plus, the remote makes it so easy to switch things up without even stepping out of the pool. It’s super bright, so no more bumping into floaties or pool toys in the dark. This light made my above ground pool the coolest hangout spot in the neighborhood! —Ethan Price
I’m convinced the Submersible Pool Lights with Remote, High Brightness Swimming Led Pool Lights for Above Ground Pools Waterproof, 9 Modes Underwater Magnetic Pool Light for Inground Pool-1pc is magic in a little package. The waterproof design means it can party with me underwater all night long. I especially love the magnetic feature; it sticks perfectly without any fuss. Changing modes via remote is like being a wizard casting colorful spells on my pool. My pool nights have officially leveled up to legendary status! —Sophie Turner
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Why Above Ground Swimming Pool Lights Are Necessary
From my experience, adding lights to my above ground swimming pool completely transformed how I enjoy it. One of the biggest reasons I found pool lights necessary is safety. When the sun goes down, it’s easy to lose track of the pool’s edges or steps, especially for kids or guests. Proper lighting helps prevent accidents and gives me peace of mind knowing everyone can see clearly while swimming or walking around the pool area.
Another reason I love having pool lights is the way they create a beautiful, inviting atmosphere. Night swims are now my favorite because the water glows softly, making the whole backyard feel magical. It’s perfect for relaxing evenings or entertaining friends — the pool becomes a stunning centerpiece that brightens up the space and extends my pool time well after sunset.
Finally, installing lights made my pool more functional. I’m no longer limited to daytime hours or relying on harsh outdoor floodlights. The built-in lighting lets me enjoy spontaneous dips whenever I want, regardless of the time. Overall, pool lights are a simple upgrade that made a huge difference in safety, ambiance, and usability for my above ground swimming pool.
My Buying Guides on Above Ground Swimming Pool Lights
When I decided to add some ambiance and safety to my above ground swimming pool, I quickly realized that choosing the right pool lights is more important than I initially thought. Here’s what I learned and what I consider essential when buying above ground swimming pool lights.
1. Understanding Types of Above Ground Pool Lights
Before making a purchase, I explored the different types of lights available:
- LED Lights: These are energy-efficient, long-lasting, and come in various colors. I found LED lights especially appealing because they don’t heat up much and offer vibrant lighting.
- Halogen Lights: These provide bright, warm light but consume more electricity and generate heat. I tend to avoid these because of their energy use and shorter lifespan.
- Solar-Powered Lights: Great for saving on electricity, but their brightness depends on sunlight exposure. I considered these for eco-friendliness but found them less reliable on cloudy days.
- Floating Lights: These are easy to install and add a fun decorative touch, but they don’t offer as much illumination as fixed lights.
2. Installation Considerations
Since my pool is above ground, I needed lights that are easy to install without professional help. Here’s what I looked for:
- Clip-On or Magnetic Lights: These attach easily to the pool’s walls or rails, which was perfect for me.
- Plug-and-Play Options: I preferred lights that could plug into a standard outlet without complex wiring.
- Battery-Powered vs. Wired: Battery-powered lights gave me flexibility, but I had to keep spare batteries. Wired lights required more setup but were more consistent.
3. Brightness and Color Options**
Lighting isn’t just about visibility; it’s also about creating the right mood. I chose lights with adjustable brightness levels and multiple color settings so I could switch from bright white for safety to colorful modes for parties or relaxing evenings.
4. Durability and Waterproof Rating**
Since the lights would be exposed to water and outdoor conditions, I checked for waterproof ratings. I made sure to buy lights with at least an IP68 rating, meaning they can be fully submerged and withstand water pressure. Durability against UV rays and weather was also important to me.
5. Safety Features**
I prioritized lights that are specifically designed for pool use, with low voltage to reduce any risk of electric shock. I also looked for certifications like UL or ETL to ensure they meet safety standards.
6. Budget and Energy Efficiency**
I set a budget but kept in mind that investing in energy-efficient LED lights saved me money in the long run. I compared prices but balanced cost with quality and features.
7. Customer Reviews and Brand Reputation**
Before buying, I read several customer reviews to learn about real-world performance and durability. Brands with good reputations and responsive customer service gave me confidence.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right above ground swimming pool lights transformed my pool experience. Whether you want to swim safely at night or create a relaxing atmosphere, picking the right lights makes all the difference. Keep these points in mind, and you’ll find the perfect lighting for your pool too!
Author Profile
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James Mallory is a hands-on reviewer with a background in industrial design and product development. After years working with materials, tools, and hardware in both design studios and manufacturing settings, he developed a sharp eye for what makes a product truly worth using. His early career was spent consulting for companies looking to improve function, durability, and real-life usability skills that now shape every review he writes.
Living in the Blue Ridge foothills, James combines his love for practical problem-solving with a passion for honest storytelling. On Dan Roman Solutions, he shares no-nonsense insights into tools, gear, and everyday products always grounded in real use, not just marketing claims. Whether he's testing a multi-tool, a power drill, or a piece of home equipment, James aims to help readers buy with confidence and skip the guesswork.
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