Best Aquarium Light Timer – Reviews and Buyers Guide

Everyone knows that a good aquarium light is important for keeping your fish healthy and looking their best. But did you know that a good timer is also important? As far as aquarium equipment goes, aquarium timers are crucial. Not only can they help you to set and manage your aquarium light schedule, but they can also save you money in the long run by helping to reduce energy costs.

There are a lot of different aquarium timers on the market, so which one is the best for you? In this article, we will first discuss what to look for when choosing the best aquarium light timer. Should you buy a digital or an analog timer? What are the different features to consider?

Comparison Table of The 7 Best Aquarium Light Timers

Why Use An Aquarium Light Timer?

Every aquarium owner wants to provide the best possible environment for the aquatic life living in their tank. This means having a regular light schedule that mimics natural daylight and nightfall. For aquarium plants, this is especially important, as plant growth and photosynthesis are regulated by light. Without a regular light schedule, your plants will experience stunted growth and may even die.

In addition to keeping your plants healthy, using a timer is also important in keeping algae growth under control. Algae thrive in aquarium conditions with constant light, and can quickly overtake a tank if left unchecked. A good timer will help to regulate light exposure and prevent algae from taking over your tank.

Last but not least, tropical fish need a regular day/night light cycle to stay healthy. Aquarium life is regulated by the natural light/dark cycle, and fish that are kept in an aquarium without a regular light schedule may become stressed or even sick. They may also display odd behavior, such as swimming at the surface of the tank or resting on the bottom.

Given all of these benefits, it is clear that using a timer is an important part of aquarium care. But what type of timer should you choose? In the next section, we will discuss the different types of timers available and help you decide which one is right for you.

How to Choose an Aquarium Light Timer

In choosing an aquarium light timer, there are a few things to consider. Below are the most important factors to keep in mind.

Type of Timer

The first thing you need to decide is whether you want a digital or an analog timer.

An analog, or rotary timer, is a simple timer that has a dial with time slots listed on it. To use an analog timer, you set the dial to the desired time and then turn it on. The timer will stay on for the amount of time set on the dial, and then will automatically turn off. If you have a consistent schedule for your aquarium light, an analog timer is a good choice.

Digital timers (sometimes known as an automatic timer,) are more advanced than analog timers and offer more features. They typically have an LCD screen that displays the time, and allow you to set time intervals and multiple schedules. For example, you can set the timer to turn on your light at 7 am and turn it off at 11 pm. If you have a varied light schedule, a digital timer is a better choice.

Features

Now that you have decided whether you want a digital or an analog timer, you need to decide which features are important to you. For instance, you might need light controls that allow for a manual override of pre-programmed settings without affecting the timer’s schedule. This manual button can be especially useful if you need to adjust your light schedule for a special event or holiday.

Another important feature to consider is whether your timer provides automatic dimming functions. Many timers also come with a digital dimmer that gradually adjusts brightness levels over a set period of time, which can help to create a more natural lighting cycle for your aquarium. Compared to a manual dimmer, which just adjusts brightness levels instantly, a digital dimmer is a more gradual way to adjust the light in your aquarium.

Finally, high-tech aquarium light timers that are remote control or app-enabled offer a more convenient way to adjust your light fixture. With a remote control timer, you can adjust your timer settings without having to walk over to the aquarium and use a manual button. This may not seem like a big deal at first, but trust us – anything that makes timer adjustments easier is a welcome addition!

Lighting Schedules

Depending on the current time of day, you may want your aquarium light to be on or off. For example, many people like to have their aquarium light turned off during the day while they are at work, and then turn it back on in the evening when they get home. If that’s the case, a timer with an internal memory operating on a 24-hour cycle would be ideal, as it would allow you to set a fixed schedule.

On the other hand, if you have a light schedule that is constantly changing, you’ll need a timer with a digital display that allows you to easily change the time intervals using the exact time. This type of timer is usually referred to as a programmable timer. With this type of timer, you can create custom schedules that are tailored to your specific needs.

If you’re someone who also wants to have a night cycle for your aquarium, you’ll need a timer that can handle more than one schedule. This is where timers with multiple channels come in handy. With multiple channels, you can set a night schedule and a day schedule based on the actual time of day.  

Safety Features

Because they aren’t submerged in water, it’s easy to forget that aquarium light timers also need to be able to withstand occasional splashes and spills. Look for timers with a water-resistant or waterproof design to help protect them from the elements. Grounded outlets and a protective housing for the timer’s buttons can also help to keep your timer safe and in working condition.

Generally speaking, standard power connectors and plugs should be enough to keep your timer safe from accidental splashes and light shocks. However, if you live in an area that is prone to severe weather conditions, you may want to consider a timer with a built-in surge protector. This will help to safeguard your timer from any unexpected power spikes that could exceed the maximum load rating.

Now that you know what to look for, let’s take a closer look at some of the best aquarium light timers on the market. 

Best Aquarium Light Timers – Top 7 Picks

We understand that everyone’s needs are different, so we’ve compiled a list of seven of the best aquarium light timers on the market. Whether you’re looking for a timer with an internal battery backup or one with multiple channels, we’ve got you covered. Read on to find the perfect timer for your aquarium!

To kick off our list of the best aquarium light timers, we have the Zoo Med AquaSun Aquarium Controller Timer & Power Strip. This timer is a little bit different than the others on our list, as it not only controls your lighting schedule, but also doubles as a power strip.

The AquaSun timer has 8 grounded outlets that can be used to power your aquarium light, as well as any other equipment you may have in your tank. The timer also has a built-in 24-hour cycle, making it perfect for those who want a natural day/night cycle for their fish.

As this is an analog timer, it’s easy to use and doesn’t require any programming. Some reviewers find the outlet placements to be a bit inconvenient, but overall, this timer is a great option for those looking for an all-in-one aquarium controller.

If you’re looking for a quality aquarium light timer that also comes with a built-in surge protector, the BN-LINK 8 Outlet Surge Protector is a great option. This timer has 4 grounded outlets, and is perfect for those seeking versatility as it allows users to set up to 8 on/off programs.

To add to its user-friendly design, the BN-LINK timer also comes with pre-set combination days and a Daylights Savings mode – perfect for first-time timers. This timer also comes with a long-lasting backup battery, ensuring that your timer will stay in working condition even when the power goes out.

Overall, the BN-LINK 8 Outlet Surge Protector is a great option for those looking for a quality aquarium light timer with added protection against power surges. Though setting up schedules can be a bit confusing at first, with a little tinkering, most users will be able to get the hang of it.

The Coralife Digital Power Center is a digital aquarium light timer that is perfect for those with large tanks. This timer comes with a grounded 3-prong plug and is UL listed, meaning it is able to handle up to 1875 amps. Those with color-enhancing lights housed within large tanks will appreciate this timer’s heavy-duty design.

What makes the Coralife Digital Power Center unique is its ability to be programmed for multiple days of the week. Seven appears to be the magic number here, as it can handle seven time cycles a day, seven days a week. For you, this could mean setting your light to come on and off at different times throughout the week.

The Coralife Digital Power Center is a great option for those looking for a heavy-duty digital aquarium light timer. It is easy to use and can handle a high number of amps, making it perfect for those with large tanks. Though setting it up can be a little confusing due to the sheer number of controls available, perusing the manual should clear up any confusion.

The NICREW LED Light Timer is a unique option on our list, as it not only controls your aquarium light, but also serves as a dimmer. This timer is perfect for those who want to have more control over their tank’s LED lighting, as it allows users to adjust the light’s brightness level. Being able to simulate a sunrise and sunset effect adds to the timer’s versatility.

If you live in an area where power outages are common, the NICREW LED Light Timer is a great option as it comes with a backup battery. This ensures that your light timer will stay in working condition even when the power goes out. Additionally, the internal memory of this timer means that your programs will not be lost even if the battery dies.

Overall, the NICREW LED Light Timer is a versatile and user-friendly timer that is perfect for those who want more control over their tank’s lighting. It is compatible with the NICREW ClassicLED, ClassicLED Plus, BrightLED and other lights with standard 2.5mm/2.1mm power connectors, so it is sure to fit your tank’s lighting needs.

The myTouchSmart Indoor/Outdoor Plug-In Digital Timer is a simple, easy-to-use general-purpose light timer that can be used indoors or outdoors. Although it is designed for maximum compatibility with most kinds of lights, many individuals attest to its reliability as a simple, no-frills aquarium light timer. This timer is perfect for those who want a reliable, no-frills timer that is easy to use.

The fact that this is a digital timer is a big plus, as it makes programming very simple. There are only two buttons on this timer- one for turning the timer on and off, and the other for setting the time. The myTouchSmart Indoor/Outdoor Plug-In Digital Timer is also easy to use in conjunction with an automatic fish feeder, as it has an automatic on/off function.

Overall, the myTouchSmart Indoor/Outdoor Plug-In Digital Timer is a great, easy-to-use digital timer that is perfect for those who want a basic timer without too many bells and whistles. It comes with a mounting bracket that makes it easy to attach to a wall, and the timer can be set to either 12 or 24-hour time mode.

Sometimes, all we need is one outlet for the timer and one for the light. The Zoo Med AquaSun Aquarium Timer is a great, compact timer that fits that bill. Featuring a single outlet for your timer and a 3-pronged receptacle for maximum safety, this timer is perfect for those who are working with a limited amount of space or hobbyists who want to avoid a cluttered setup.

Much like its big sister, the Zoo Med AquaSun power strip, this timer is designed to be used with most types of aquarium lights. It is extremely easy to use, reliable and is compatible with most types of lights. You won’t be able to create multiple light settings or programming with this timer, but it is perfect for those who want a basic, no-fuss timer.

The Zoo Med AquaSun Aquarium Timer is a great, compact timer that is perfect for those who want a single outlet timer without too many features. It is easy to use and reliable, making it the perfect choice for those who want a basic timer without any fuss.

The last entry on our list is technically a timer made for reptile lights and warmers, but it is just as effective at controlling aquarium lights. The Zoo Med Repticare Day Night Timer is a great, all-in-one timer that can be used to control both your aquarium lights and your reptile heating system. This timer is extremely easy to use, reliable, and boasts a simple, one-button design.

Many individuals find that the fact that this timer can be used for both their aquarium lights and their reptile heating system is a big plus. This timer is also very compact, making it perfect for those who want a small, easy-to-use timer. The lack of programming features may be a downside for some, but overall, the Zoo Med Repticare Day Night Timer is a great, all-in-one timer.

The Takeaway

Aquarium light timers are a necessary piece of equipment for any aquarist. Not only do they help to ensure healthy, thriving aquatic life, but they also make controlling your aquarium lighting a breeze. When shopping for an aquarium light timer, it is important to consider the features that are most important to you.

If you want a timer with a ton of programming features, the myTouchSmart Indoor/Outdoor Plug-In Digital Timer is a great option. If you are looking for a compact timer that is easy to use, the Zoo Med AquaSun Aquarium Timer is a perfect choice. No matter what your needs may be, there is sure to be an aquarium light timer that is perfect for you.

Thank you for reading! We hope this article has helped you to better understand the importance of aquarium light timers and has given you a few ideas on some of the best timers on the market. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask in the comments section below. We love hearing from our readers and we are always happy to help!