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10 Best Underwater Pool Lights 2026 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Pentair IntelliBrite 601302 White LED 120V, 55W, 100' with Stainless Steel Face Ring Pool Light EC-601302 5G

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,102
Brightness
Durability and Waterproof Rating
Installation Type

Most important from
54 reviews

Brightness
Delivers bright, clear white light that enhances the pool's appearance with a pleasing glow.
Durability and Waterproof Rating
The stainless steel face ring adds both durability and a sleek, polished look to the fixture.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward and manageable as a DIY project, aided by a flexible electrical cord and thoughtful design.

The Pentair IntelliBrite 601302 is a powerful and energy-efficient LED pool light known for its bright, clear illumination. It uses advanced LED technology combined with a custom reflector and lens to reduce glare and produce wide, uniform light coverage underwater. This makes it a good choice if you want your pool well lit with a pleasing, even glow. It supports both wide-angle and narrow-angle lighting, so you can decide between broader coverage or more intense light in specific areas.

It excels in brightness and efficiency, offering only white light without color-changing options that some modern pool lights provide. The stainless steel face ring adds durability and a sleek look, and the product is designed to withstand underwater conditions well. Installation is straightforward for those with some DIY skills, though it is a heavier unit which might require extra care during setup. The light comes with basic control options but lacks the smart or remote controls found in some newer models.

This product is a solid fit for residential and commercial pools where bright, reliable white lighting is preferred over multi-color effects. For those seeking simple, powerful pool lighting that is efficient and durable, the Pentair IntelliBrite 601302 is a worthy consideration.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,102
Brightness
Durability and Waterproof Rating
Installation Type

Most important from
54 reviews

Brightness
Delivers bright, clear white light that enhances the pool's appearance with a pleasing glow.
Durability and Waterproof Rating
The stainless steel face ring adds both durability and a sleek, polished look to the fixture.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward and manageable as a DIY project, aided by a flexible electrical cord and thoughtful design.
#2

Pentair 601001 IntelliBrite 5G Color Underwater LED Pool Light, 120 Volt, 50 Foot Cord

Rating
9.1
Brightness
Color Options
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
277 reviews

Brightness
Installation is straightforward and the light delivers bright, consistent illumination, making it a worthwhile upgrade for pool lighting.
Color Options
Color options enhance the pool atmosphere, though some colors like blue and red may appear too dark to noticeably illuminate certain pool liners.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a standout feature, with substantial power savings compared to similar underwater LED lights.
Durability and Waterproof Rating
Durability can be a concern, as some units have experienced color malfunctions and failure within a year, raising questions about warranty coverage.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward and the light delivers bright, consistent illumination, making it a worthwhile upgrade for pool lighting.

The Pentair 601001 IntelliBrite 5G is a well-designed underwater LED pool light that offers bright and evenly distributed illumination. Its superior reflector and lens design help reduce glare and avoid bright spots on the pool floor, resulting in consistent lighting across the pool. The ability to rotate the lens allows you to choose between a wide or narrow beam, which adds flexibility depending on your pool size and lighting preference.

This light is energy-efficient, using up to 50% less power than similar products thanks to its advanced IntelliBrite LED technology, making it a cost-effective choice in the long run. With a 120-volt power supply and a 50-foot cord, installation is fairly straightforward for most standard pools. It also supports multiple color options, adding a fun and customizable atmosphere to pool lighting. However, it weighs 12 pounds and measures 11 x 11 x 9 inches, which might be a bit bulky for some installations.

This product is ideal for pool owners looking for bright, efficient, and versatile underwater lighting without an overly complicated setup or controls.

Rating
9.1
Brightness
Color Options
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
277 reviews

Brightness
Installation is straightforward and the light delivers bright, consistent illumination, making it a worthwhile upgrade for pool lighting.
Color Options
Color options enhance the pool atmosphere, though some colors like blue and red may appear too dark to noticeably illuminate certain pool liners.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a standout feature, with substantial power savings compared to similar underwater LED lights.
Durability and Waterproof Rating
Durability can be a concern, as some units have experienced color malfunctions and failure within a year, raising questions about warranty coverage.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward and the light delivers bright, consistent illumination, making it a worthwhile upgrade for pool lighting.
#3

SURAIELEC 12V AC Pool Lights for Inground Pool, 10 inch Color Changing LED Pool Light with Remote Control, 300W Equivalent, Underwater Swimming Pool Light Fixture for Large Wet Niches, 100FT Cord

Rating
8.8
Brightness
Color Options
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
104 reviews

Brightness
Offers excellent brightness with 3000 lumens, effectively illuminating larger pools.
Color Options
Delivers vibrant colors and fun lighting effects that add great ambiance to the pool area.
Energy Efficiency
A cost-effective alternative to premium brands, providing similar quality at a fraction of the price.
Durability and Waterproof Rating
Built with durable 316L stainless steel and an IP68 waterproof rating, it withstands both fresh and saltwater environments.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward for those with existing 12V transformers and standard 10-inch niches.
Control Options
The remote control works reliably up to 100 feet, making it easy to switch colors and modes.

The SURAIELEC 12V AC Pool Light is a good choice for inground pools, especially if you have a 10-inch standard niche, as it fits perfectly and can replace popular brands like Pentair and Hayward. Its brightness level is solid with 3000 lumens, providing enough light to illuminate larger pools effectively. It offers a wide range of color options, including 7 solid colors and 7 dynamic lighting effects, which you can easily control via a remote from up to 100 feet away. This makes it fun and flexible for creating different moods in your pool area.

Energy efficiency is well addressed since it runs on 35 watts with LED technology, which uses less power compared to older pool lights. The light is built tough using 316L stainless steel and has a high waterproof rating (IP68), meaning it can handle both fresh and saltwater environments without rusting or leaking—great for long-term durability. Installation is straightforward for those with existing 10-inch niches, with a long 100-foot cord adding convenience for power source placement. However, keep in mind you will need a separate transformer for safe 12V operation, which is not included.

The light’s control system is reliable thanks to an upgraded external receiver, avoiding interference issues often caused by water or metal pool structures. It also supports manual controls if you prefer not to use the remote. The product weighs over 13 pounds, which might require some care during installation. While the 1-year warranty offers some security, longer coverage would be preferable for an outdoor product exposed to the elements. Since the transformer isn’t included, you’ll need to factor in additional cost and setup. This pool light is well-suited for pool owners wanting vibrant, customizable lighting with easy remote control and durable construction. It’s less ideal if you don’t have a standard 10-inch niche or want a plug-and-play option without extra components.

Rating
8.8
Brightness
Color Options
Energy Efficiency

Most important from
104 reviews

Brightness
Offers excellent brightness with 3000 lumens, effectively illuminating larger pools.
Color Options
Delivers vibrant colors and fun lighting effects that add great ambiance to the pool area.
Energy Efficiency
A cost-effective alternative to premium brands, providing similar quality at a fraction of the price.
Durability and Waterproof Rating
Built with durable 316L stainless steel and an IP68 waterproof rating, it withstands both fresh and saltwater environments.
Installation Type
Installation is straightforward for those with existing 12V transformers and standard 10-inch niches.
Control Options
The remote control works reliably up to 100 feet, making it easy to switch colors and modes.

Buying Guide for the Best Underwater Pool Lights

Choosing the right underwater pool lights can significantly enhance the ambiance and safety of your pool area. When selecting pool lights, it's important to consider various specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are some key specs to consider and how to navigate them.
BrightnessBrightness is measured in lumens and determines how much light the fixture emits. This is important because it affects visibility and the overall atmosphere of your pool area. Lower lumens (around 200-400) are suitable for creating a soft, ambient glow, while higher lumens (600-1000+) are better for larger pools or if you need more illumination for safety and visibility. Consider the size of your pool and the purpose of the lighting when choosing the brightness level.
Color OptionsUnderwater pool lights come in various colors, including white, blue, and multi-color options. Color can set the mood and enhance the aesthetic appeal of your pool. White lights are classic and provide clear visibility, while blue lights create a calming effect. Multi-color lights offer versatility and can be adjusted to match different occasions or themes. Think about the ambiance you want to create and whether you prefer a single color or the flexibility of changing colors.
Energy EfficiencyEnergy efficiency is crucial for reducing electricity costs and environmental impact. LED lights are the most energy-efficient option, consuming less power and lasting longer than traditional incandescent or halogen bulbs. When choosing pool lights, look for LED options with a high energy efficiency rating. This will ensure you save on energy bills and reduce the frequency of bulb replacements.
Durability and Waterproof RatingDurability and waterproof rating are essential for ensuring the longevity and safety of your pool lights. Look for lights with a high IP (Ingress Protection) rating, such as IP68, which indicates they are fully waterproof and can withstand prolonged submersion. Durable materials like stainless steel or high-quality plastic are also important to resist corrosion and damage from pool chemicals. Consider the environment in which the lights will be used and choose a product that can withstand those conditions.
Installation TypeThe installation type of pool lights can vary, including surface-mounted, flush-mounted, and floating options. Surface-mounted lights are easier to install and maintain, while flush-mounted lights offer a sleek, integrated look but may require more complex installation. Floating lights are versatile and can be moved around the pool as needed. Think about your installation skills, the look you want to achieve, and whether you prefer a permanent or flexible lighting solution.
Control OptionsControl options for pool lights can range from simple on/off switches to advanced remote controls and smart home integration. Basic controls are straightforward and easy to use, while remote controls offer convenience and the ability to change settings from a distance. Smart home integration allows you to control the lights using your smartphone or voice commands. Consider how much control and convenience you want and choose a system that fits your lifestyle.

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