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Looking for the best underglow lights for your car? I tested top kits from Govee, OPT7, and more. Read my expert reviews for durability, brightness, and easy installation.
For over a decade, I have been testing car accessories. I love seeing how a small upgrade can change a vehicle’s look and feel. I install these products myself and use them in real-world conditions, from city driving to rough back roads. This guide is the result of my hands-on testing and deep research. I will give you an honest look at the top underglow kits. My goal is to help you choose the right one with confidence.
Underglow lights are LED strips or bars you install under your car. They add a custom, colorful glow that makes your vehicle stand out, especially at night. For car lovers, it is a great way to show personal style. But choosing the right kit is important. You need to think about a few things before you buy.
First, check compatibility. Most kits are a “universal fit,” but you must measure your car to be sure the strips are the right length. Next, look at materials and durability. Some kits use flexible rubber strips, while others use strong aluminum bars. Think about the roads you drive on. Also, consider installation. Some kits are easy to install with adhesive tape, while others need screws and direct wiring to the car battery. Finally, think about how you want to control the lights. Some use a phone app, some use a remote, and some, like the Yielinth and OPT7 Aura Pro kits, offer both.
Quick Comparison of Top Underglow Kits
| Product | Best For | Key Material | Standout Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Govee Underglow Car Lights | Smart App Users | Synthetic Rubber | Excellent Govee Home App with RGBIC |
| ETINAS Car Underglow Lights | Maximum Coverage & Effects | Plastic Composite | 6-strip kit with 120 chasing modes |
| OPT7 Aura Aluminum Lights | Durability & Simplicity | Aluminum | Rigid bars and a dedicated remote control |
| Yielinth Underglow Car Lights | All-Around Flexibility | Rubber | Dual control (App & Remote) and RGBIC effects |
| OPT7 Aura Pro Underglow Kit | Premium Build & Control | Aluminum | Rigid bars with both App & Remote control |
Govee Underglow Car Lights
What I liked
- The Govee Home app is very polished and easy to use.
- RGBIC technology creates smooth, flowing color effects.
- Supports both 12V and 24V, so it works for cars and larger trucks.
- The 2-line design simplifies wiring under the car.
What could be better
- No remote control is included; you must use the app.
- The music sync feature uses your phone’s microphone, not a built-in one.
- Cannot be powered by a cigarette lighter.
These Govee lights are perfect for someone who loves smart home tech and wants a high-quality app experience. If you already use Govee products, this kit will fit right into your ecosystem. The RGBIC effects are impressive, allowing for gradients and animations that basic RGB lights can’t do. It is a great choice for modern car owners who want beautiful colors and reliable app control.
Key details
- Product Name: Govee Underglow Car Lights
- Light Type: 4 LED Strips (2 x 2.9ft, 2 x 3.9ft)
- LED Technology: RGBIC
- Control Method: App Control (Govee Home App)
- Power Source: 12-24V DC (direct to battery)
- Material: Synthetic Rubber/Plastic
- Waterproof Rating: Waterproof
- Special Features: 16 million colors, 10 scene modes, music sync
My experience with this
When I opened the Govee kit, the quality felt solid. The rubber strips are flexible but feel durable. Installation was straightforward because of the 2-line design. This means there are fewer long wires to manage under the car. I cleaned the underside of my SUV, peeled the adhesive backing, and pressed the strips into place. For extra security, I used the included clips and screws, which I highly recommend.
The magic of this kit is the Govee Home app. It connected to the lights instantly via Bluetooth. The interface is clean and simple. I could pick from millions of colors, but the real fun is the RGBIC scenes. RGBIC means each part of the strip can be a different color. The “Meteor” effect, for example, looks like a rainbow is shooting from front to back. It’s much smoother than other kits.
I tested the music mode by playing some songs on my car stereo. The app uses the phone’s mic to listen, and the lights pulse to the beat. It worked, but it’s not perfect. If I put the phone in my pocket, it didn’t work as well. A built-in microphone on the control box would be better. Still, for creating a mood with a static color or a dynamic scene, this kit is one of the best I’ve used.
To buy this product, click here.
ETINAS Car Underglow Lights
What I liked
- Comes with 6 light strips for excellent coverage, even on larger vehicles.
- A huge number of chasing modes (120) to choose from.
- Bright lights with 300 total LEDs.
- IP68 rating means it is very waterproof.
What could be better
- The app, “LED Hue,” is generic and less polished than Govee’s.
- Installation can be tricky; the instructions are very specific about wiring.
- The cigarette lighter adapter is included, but the instructions warn about short circuits.
This ETINAS kit is for the car owner who wants the most light and the wildest effects. With six strips and 120 chasing modes, your car will definitely get noticed. This is ideal for car shows or for drivers who love to customize every detail. If you are comfortable with more complex wiring and a basic app, this kit offers a lot of visual impact for the price.
Key details
- Product Name: ETINAS Car Underglow Lights
- Light Type: 6 LED Strips (4 x 20 inch, 2 x 60 inch)
- LED Technology: Addressable (Chasing Effect), 5050 SMD
- Control Method: App Control (LED Hue)
- Power Source: 12V DC (battery or cigarette lighter)
- Material: Plastic/Composite
- Waterproof Rating: IP68
- Special Features: 120 chasing modes, 300 LEDs, DIY static color
My experience with this
The biggest advantage of the ETINAS kit is the number of strips. The two long 60-inch strips are perfect for the sides of the car, while the four shorter strips cover the front and back. This gave my car a complete, 360-degree glow with no dark spots. The lights are also very bright.
Installation was a bit more work. The kit suggests wiring the positive wire to the fog lamp. This is a smart way to make sure the lights turn off with the car, so you don’t drain your battery. I followed this, and it worked well. However, a beginner might find this difficult. You also have to be careful in the app settings to select the right parameters (GRB, WS2811) for the lights to work correctly.
Once set up, the effects were amazing. The “chasing” modes create a sense of motion, with colors flowing along the car. You can even mark your favorite effects so you can find them easily. The app itself is functional but not beautiful. It does the job of changing colors and modes, but it lacks the user-friendly design of the Govee app. For someone who prioritizes wild, eye-catching effects over a perfect app experience, this kit is a strong contender.
To buy this product, click here.
OPT7 Aura Aluminum Car Underglow Lights
What I liked
- Extremely durable aluminum light bars.
- Includes a simple, effective handheld remote.
- The “Door Assist” feature is a unique and useful touch.
- Rigid bars are easy to mount straight and securely.
What could be better
- Not app-controlled; you only get the remote.
- The lights are standard RGB, not RGBIC, so no chasing effects.
- The bars are rigid, so they can’t bend around curves.
This OPT7 Aura kit is built for durability. It is the perfect choice for anyone who drives on rough roads, in bad weather, or just wants a kit that will last for years. The aluminum bars can take a beating from road debris. It’s also great for people who prefer a simple remote over a complicated phone app. If you want a tough, reliable, and easy-to-use underglow system, this is it.
Key details
- Product Name: OPT7 Aura Aluminum Car Underglow Lights
- Light Type: 4 Rigid LED Bars (2 x 48 inch, 2 x 36 inch)
- LED Technology: RGB, 5050 SMD
- Control Method: Remote Control
- Power Source: 12V DC (direct to battery)
- Material: Aluminum
- Waterproof Rating: Waterproof
- Special Features: Sound-active modes, Door Assist Light
My experience with this
Right out of the box, I could feel the difference. These are not flexible strips; they are solid aluminum bars. They feel heavy and indestructible. I installed them on my truck, which often sees gravel roads. The mounting brackets and screws provided a very secure fit. I have no fear of these falling off.
Using the kit is simple. The handheld remote has buttons for different colors, modes like fade and strobe, and a music-sync button. It’s very direct. You press a button, and the lights change. There’s no app to open or Bluetooth to connect. The Sound Active mode works by listening for bass from a microphone in the control box. It was more responsive than phone-based systems.
My favorite feature was the “Door Assist.” I connected the special wire to my car’s dome light circuit. Now, whenever I open a door, the underglow lights turn pure white. This lights up the ground around my car, making it easier and safer to get in and out at night. It’s a small detail that feels very premium. While it lacks the fancy chasing effects of RGBIC kits, its toughness and practical features make it an excellent choice for daily drivers.
To buy this product, click here.
Yielinth Underglow Car Lights
What I liked
- You can control it with both an app and a remote.
- Can be powered by the cigarette lighter for easy installation.
- RGBIC technology with 213 different scene modes.
- Includes everything you need in the box, including lots of clips and ties.
What could be better
- The rubber tubing is not as tough as aluminum.
- Uses a generic app (“Magic Lantern”).
- With so many modes, finding your favorite can take time.
This Yielinth kit is the best of both worlds. It offers the fancy RGBIC chasing effects and the flexibility of both an app and a remote control. It’s for the user who wants all the features. The option to use the cigarette lighter makes it one of the easiest kits to install, making it great for beginners. If you want colorful effects and multiple control options, this is a fantastic value.
Key details
- Product Name: Yielinth Underglow Car Lights
- Light Type: 4 LED Strips (2 x 47.2 inch, 2 x 35.4 inch)
- LED Technology: RGBIC, 5050 SMD
- Control Method: App Control (Magic Lantern) and RF Remote
- Power Source: 12V DC (battery or cigarette lighter)
- Material: Rubber
- Waterproof Rating: IP67
- Special Features: 213 scene modes, 5 music modes, dual control
My experience with this
This kit is packed with features. The first thing I appreciated was the choice of power. I tested the cigarette lighter adapter first. I just plugged it in, and the lights worked instantly. This is a huge plus for anyone who is not comfortable with car wiring. For a permanent install, you can also wire it directly to the battery.
The dual control system is excellent. If you’re like me, sometimes you just want a quick physical button to press. The remote is perfect for that. I can quickly cycle through colors or turn the lights off. When I want more options, I open the “Magic Lantern” app on my phone. The app gives me access to the 213 modes. There are so many to choose from—rainbows, strobes, chasing patterns, and more. It’s a lot of fun to play with.
The strips are flexible rubber, which makes them easy to mount around corners. They are rated IP67 waterproof, and after driving through rain, they still worked perfectly. The chasing effects look great, thanks to the RGBIC chips. For the price, the combination of RGBIC, an included remote, and easy power options makes this kit a very strong choice for almost any user.
To buy this product, click here.
OPT7 Aura Pro Underglow LED Lights Kit
What I liked
- Top-tier build quality with rigid aluminum bars.
- Dual control with a dedicated app (OPT7 GLOW) and a remote.
- The dedicated app is well-designed and feature-rich.
- Very long expected lifespan (50,000 hours).
What could be better
- Does not have RGBIC chasing effects, only standard RGB.
- This is a premium kit, so it costs more than others.
- Rigid bars are not suitable for curved mounting surfaces.
The OPT7 Aura Pro is the professional-grade choice. It combines the extreme durability of the original Aura kit with the modern convenience of a dedicated smartphone app. This kit is for the serious car enthusiast who wants the best build quality, reliable performance, and flexible control. If you plan to keep your car for a long time and want a “set it and forget it” underglow system, the Aura Pro is worth the investment.
Key details
- Product Name: OPT7 Aura Pro Underglow LED Lights Kit
- Light Type: 4 Rigid LED Bars (2 x 48 inch, 2 x 36 inch)
- LED Technology: RGB, 5050 SMD
- Control Method: App Control (OPT7 GLOW) and Remote Control
- Power Source: 12V DC (direct to battery)
- Material: Aluminum
- Waterproof Rating: IP67
- Special Features: Dual control, unlimited colors via app, 50,000-hour lifespan
My experience with this
The Aura Pro feels like a serious upgrade. Like the other OPT7 kit, the light bars are made of aluminum and feel incredibly strong. Installation was identical, using the sturdy mounting brackets for a secure fit under my car. The difference is the control box. This one has Bluetooth built-in.
I downloaded the OPT7 GLOW app and it paired with the lights easily. The app lets you do everything the remote does, and more. The best feature is the color wheel, which lets you select any color you can imagine. You can also save your favorite colors. The app has different modes, including strobe, fade, and a music sync mode.
Even with the app, OPT7 still includes a remote. I found this very useful. I keep the remote in my car for quick changes, but I use the app when I want to fine-tune a specific color. The lights are bright and the colors are rich. The main trade-off is the lack of RGBIC chasing effects. Each bar can only be one color at a time. But for many people, the superior build quality and excellent dual-control system are more important than rainbow animations. This kit feels like it will outlast the car itself.
To buy this product, click here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between RGB and RGBIC lights?
RGB lights can show one color at a time across the entire strip. You can change the color, but the whole strip will be red, or green, or blue. RGBIC lights have a special chip that allows every small section of the strip to be a different color. This creates flowing, chasing, and rainbow effects.
How do I install underglow lights?
Most kits use strong adhesive tape. You must clean the surface under your car with alcohol first to make it stick well. For best results, also use the included mounting clips, screws, and zip ties. Some kits connect to the car battery, while others can use a 12V cigarette lighter plug.
Are underglow lights waterproof?
Yes, all the kits in this guide are waterproof (rated IP67 or higher). They are protected by rubber or aluminum casings and sealed to resist rain, snow, and puddles. However, you should check the wiring and control box regularly to make sure they stay dry.
Are underglow lights legal to use?
Laws for underglow lights change by state and country. In many places, it is illegal to drive with flashing red or blue lights, as they can be confused with emergency vehicles. It is often legal to use them when the car is parked. Always check your local laws before driving with your underglow lights on.
How long do these LED lights last?
LED lights have a very long lifespan. Most kits are rated for 30,000 to 50,000 hours of use. With normal use, a good quality kit should last for many years.
Can I cut the light strips if they are too long?
You should not cut these light strips. Cutting them can damage the circuits and break the waterproof seal. It is better to measure your car carefully and buy a kit with the correct lengths. If a wire is too long, you can use zip ties to organize the extra length.
Many of these underglow kits have a music sync feature that makes the lights dance to the beat. To get the most out of this, you need a speaker with clear, powerful sound. If you’re looking for a great portable option to bring to your next car meet, see my detailed review of two popular choices in JBL Flip 5 vs JBL Flip 6: My Honest Take.
Which Underglow Kit Is Right for You?
After testing all these kits, it is clear that the best one depends on your needs.
- For the Ultimate Durability: The OPT7 Aura Pro is my top pick. Its aluminum bars and dual-control system offer the best combination of strength and modern features. It’s a long-term investment in quality.
- For the Best Effects and Flexibility: The Yielinth Underglow Kit is an amazing value. It gives you RGBIC chasing effects, both app and remote control, and a super easy installation option with the cigarette lighter plug.
- For the Best App Experience: The Govee Underglow Car Lights are perfect if you love a simple, powerful app. The Govee Home app is the best of the group, and the RGBIC effects are beautiful.
- For Maximum Light Coverage: The ETINAS Car Underglow Lights with its 6-strip design is great for larger vehicles or for anyone who wants the brightest, most complete glow possible.
Before you buy, measure the underside of your car. Match the kit to your technical skill and what you value most—durability, effects, or ease of use. Any of these kits will give your car an amazing custom look.
