Overall I am happy with the lights, but the remote doesn't work. I even inserted a new battery and it still doesn't work. That is a bummer because that's the only way that you can adjust the brightness of the lights and set a timer. The light string itself does come with a button where you can adjust the mode without having to use the remote. There are eight different modes for various blinking options which is great for Christmas time. That button only adjusts the mode, however, of either being a steady light or choosing one of the blinking options. The button does not adjust the light brightness nor does it have a timer option. I do like that it has a polarized plug on both ends for ease of connecting multiple sets or if you need to plug something else into the end that isn't connected to the power source. I contacted the seller about the remote and they were quick to respond, apologized, and said they would send out a whole replacement light set right away as they don't carry remotes separately. I am very pleased with their customer service and handling of the situation.