Choose ColorSync when...
You already have supported Pentair Color LED lights and want Pentair Pool App control, direct panel operation, fixed colors, predefined shows and scheduling.
Pool Lighting System Comparison
Pentair ColorSync vs. Intekit Plus
Both systems make pool-light control easier, but they are built for different lighting ecosystems. Compare controls, colors, scenes, scheduling and compatible lights before choosing your upgrade path.
App controlDirect panel control
SchedulingMulti-light operation
Quick Answer
The Best Choice Depends on the Lights Already in Your Pool
Pentair ColorSync is designed to control compatible Pentair Color LED lights. Intekit Plus is a separate controller-and-light ecosystem designed around compatible Intekit Plus pool bulbs, spa bulbs and fixtures. The two systems and their light products are not interchangeable.
Choose Intekit Plus when...
You want compatible replaceable bulbs or Intekit fixtures with deeper color selection, tunable white, dimming, custom scenes, music sync and more control methods.
Pentair ColorSync Controller
A Focused Controller for Pentair Color LED Lights
Pentair describes ColorSync as a Wi-Fi-enabled lighting controller that replaces a standard light switch and works through the Pentair Pool App or its direct control panel.
Seven predefined light-show themes
Five fixed colors
Weekday and weekend schedules
Twilight mode with seasonal adjustment
Indoor or outdoor installation
Designed for compatible Pentair Color LED lights
Intekit Plus
More Ways to Personalize Pool and Spa Lighting
Intekit Plus combines compatible lighting hardware with app, voice, handheld remote and direct wall-panel control. Its focus is detailed color and white-light customization across compatible Intekit Plus bulbs and fixtures.
16 Million Colors
Select colors directly rather than choosing only from a short fixed-color list.
2700–6500K + Dimming
Tune warm-to-cool white light and adjust brightness from 1–100%.
32 Presets + Custom
Use preset moods, build custom scenes and synchronize lighting with music.
App, Voice, Remote & Panel
Choose the control method that is most convenient at that moment.
Timers and Schedules
Automate everyday pool-light operation through the Intekit app.
Designed for Underwater Use
The controller communicates with compatible lights through the electrical connection.
Feature-by-Feature Comparison
Pentair ColorSync and Intekit Plus Compared
ColorSync information below is based on Pentair’s published product page, support FAQ, brochure and installation materials. Intekit Plus information is based on Intekit product specifications.
| Feature | Pentair ColorSync | Intekit Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Primary lighting ecosystem | Compatible Pentair Color LED lights | Compatible Intekit Plus bulbs and fixtures |
| Direct wall control | Yes, ColorSync control panel | Yes, Knob or Touch Controller |
| Mobile app | Pentair Pool App | Intekit App |
| Fixed color selection | 5 published fixed colors | Up to 16 million selectable colors |
| Preset light shows/scenes | 7 published predefined themes | 32 presets plus custom scenes |
| Tunable white | Not listed as a ColorSync control feature | 2700–6500K with compatible Intekit lights |
| Brightness adjustment | Not listed as a ColorSync control feature | 1–100% with compatible Intekit lights |
| Voice control | Not listed on Pentair’s ColorSync product page | Compatible Alexa and Google Assistant control |
| Handheld remote | Not listed as an included control method | Compatible handheld remote |
| Music sync | Not listed on Pentair’s ColorSync product page | Available |
| Scheduling | Weekday/weekend schedules and twilight mode | Timers and scheduled operation |
| Cross-system compatibility | Does not control Intekit Plus lights | Does not control Pentair Color LED lights |
“Not listed” means the feature was not identified in the Pentair public ColorSync materials reviewed for this comparison; it is not a claim that no Pentair product or broader automation system offers that function.
Which System Fits Your Pool?
Choose the Lighting Ecosystem Before Choosing the Controller
Pentair ColorSync may fit better if:
- Your pool already uses supported Pentair Color LED lights.
- You want to remain within the Pentair lighting ecosystem.
- Seven themes and five fixed colors meet your needs.
- Twilight mode is an important automation feature.
Intekit Plus may fit better if:
- You are replacing compatible bulb-style pool or spa lights.
- You want millions of colors and adjustable white light.
- You want dimming, music sync or custom scenes.
- You prefer app, voice, remote and wall-panel control choices.
Compatibility warning: Do not connect a ColorSync
Controller to Intekit Plus lights, and do not connect an Intekit Plus
Controller to Pentair Color LED lights. Confirm voltage, light model,
controller compatibility and wiring requirements before purchase or
installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pentair ColorSync FAQ
What is the Pentair ColorSync Controller?
Pentair ColorSync is a lighting controller for compatible Pentair Color LED pool lights. Pentair states that it provides direct panel and Pentair Pool App control, seven predefined themes, five fixed colors, scheduling and twilight mode.
Does Pentair ColorSync work with Intekit Plus lights?
No. Pentair ColorSync and Intekit Plus are separate lighting ecosystems. Their controllers and lights should not be mixed.
Does the Intekit Plus Controller work with Pentair IntelliBrite lights?
No. Intekit Plus controllers are intended for compatible Intekit Plus bulbs and fixtures, not Pentair IntelliBrite or other Pentair Color LED lights.
Which system offers more selectable colors?
Pentair publishes five fixed colors and seven predefined themes for ColorSync. Intekit Plus supports up to 16 million selectable colors, 32 preset scenes and custom scenes with compatible Intekit lights.
Can Pentair ColorSync control lights from a phone?
Yes. Pentair states that ColorSync works with the Pentair Pool App and also offers operation from the controller’s direct control panel.
Which system should I choose?
Choose based first on light compatibility. ColorSync is the logical path for supported Pentair Color LED lights. Intekit Plus is designed for compatible Intekit Plus bulbs and fixtures and adds tunable white, dimming, voice control, remote control, music sync and expanded color selection.
Explore a Different Approach to Smart Pool Lighting
See Whether Intekit Plus Is the Right Upgrade for Your Pool
Check your fixture type and voltage, then explore compatible Intekit Plus bulbs, fixtures and controllers.
Independent comparison based on publicly available information accessed in July 2026. Product features and compatibility may change; verify current specifications with the respective manufacturer before purchase. Pentair®, Color Sync™, IntelliBrite®, MicroBrite®, GloBrite® and other Pentair marks are trademarks of their respective owner. Intekit is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by Pentair.