Top 30 Best Grow Lights for Weed ( 2023 Reviews)
When growing marijuana in an indoor environment, there is perhaps nothing more important than light. Don’t get me wrong! I am not saying that all other elements can be ignored. What I am trying to say is that light is perhaps the most crucial element that will affect the overall health and growth of the plant.
That being said, whether you are a casual grower or an experienced marijuana cultivator, you need to find the best grow lights available on the market.
A grow light is exactly what the name implies – it is a light that helps the marijuana to grow in an enclosed environment. It supplements the light that the sun cannot provide. The options can be overwhelming. They differ in terms of heat production, longevity, spectrum, and design, among many others.
If you need help in choosing the right product, keep on reading and learn from the insights that we will be sharing.
Top 30 Best Grow Lights on Amazon 2023
Best Type of Grow Light: A Look at the Choices
Before we discuss some of the top products available on the market, this section will provide a glimpse of some of the types of lights that are available, as well as their respective pros and cons.
LED: Best Energy-Efficient Grow Lights
Light Emitting Diode growth lights are amongst the most popular used by marijuana cultivators, despite the fact that they are quite new. The initial cost is quite expensive. Nonetheless, as it is being a preferred choice nowadays, the increase in demand is believed to be a factor to drive down the current prices.
Most of the LED lights are relatively small, making them space-efficient. Nonetheless, despite being compact, this does not mean that their functionality is compromised.
Pros:
- This is known for their low running temperature, despite being turned on for an extended period. This means that it won’t generate too much heat.
- If you are looking for an energy-efficient grow light, LED should be on the top of the list. They can produce a great deal of light without consuming too much electricity.
- LED lights are also known for their extended lifespan, which is expected to be about 50,000 to 100,000 on average.
Cons:
- The initial cost can be quite high, which is what limits most buyers. Nonetheless, think of the long-term benefits as they make the steep price justifiable.
- There are some LEDs that are quite weak in terms of their light intensity, which can be attributed to the fact that they use minimal energy to operate.
CFL: Best Small Grow Light
CFL stands for compact fluorescent, which is a type of fluorescent grow lighting, along with T5, which will be discussed later on. It is a replacement to the traditional incandescent lamp. It is also nicknamed the Tom Cruise of marijuana grow lights, which is because of its popularity and efficiency.
The light spectrum that is given out by CFL is not as intense as the other types that are discussed in this post. This is actually the reason why it is good only during the initial stages of the growth of weed. This will also be the perfect choice for the best light for marijuana clones. Because it is not as intense, it will not cause the plant to burn.
Pros:
- Buying a CFL is easy on the wallet as it is one of the cheapest from the grow lights that you can find on the market
- The cool temperature that is produced by CFL is also a plus, which will minimize the likelihood that the plant will suffer from stress
- Good for novice gardeners with minimal knowledge about marijuana cultivation
Cons:
- If you have a large grow room, this is not the right choice for you. It is best only for growing a single plant in a small space
- There are also problems when it comes to the strength or the intensity of the light that is produced by CFLs
HID: Best Grow Lights for Vegetative and Flowering Stages
Also known as high-intensity discharge light, it is a large bulb that is able to generate light through the ignition of the gas that is found in the bulb. They are known for being effective while being energy efficient. The HID grow lights can be further classified into two.
The first type of HIF is Metal Halide or MH light. This is recommended if you are looking for the best light for vegging cannabis. It has a high light output to provide the intensity that is needed. It emits blue light, which is why it is recommended for the vegging stage.
The second type is known as the High-Pressure Sodium or HPS light. The light that it emits is yellow-orange-red, which is more useful during the flowering stage.
It should not be a choice of either MH or HPS. As most growers would recommend, a combination of the two will work best if you want the best outcomes for your marijuana.
Pros:
- In the long run, the cost of operating HID light is less when compared to most of the other types of grow lights
- The usable light that it produces will be more than what you can expect to be produced by fluorescent grow lights
- In most cases, they are dimmable, providing you with the opportunity to customize the light output based on the needs of the grow room
Cons:
- The amount of heat produced by most HID bulbs can be too high, and hence, can possibly stress the plant
- They cannot be simply plugged in into a regular socket, which will require the need for additional tools for installation, such as a ballast
T5: Best Cheap Lights for Growing Weed
This is another kind of fluorescent grow light, which is similar to the CFL. This is a bulb that is known for running a cool temperature, which is why it is best to be used during the propagation stage. T from its name stands for tubular. The number 5, on the other hand, stands for 5/8-inch of a diameter.
Most of the lights that fall under this category are either two or four feet long. More often than not, they are not used on their own. Rather, they are used as a group, usually of four tubes. They also typically have a hood or a reflector, which is hang on the top of the plant. The hood makes it possible to maximize the intensity of the light.
Pros:
- It produces minimal heat, which means that this will not cause the plant to burn or die, especially during the initial stages of growth
- The extended lifespan of the bulb is also a plus, which is estimated to be at least 20,000 hours.
- If you are looking for a grow light with a price that won’t hurt the wallet, this is another option worth considering
Cons:
- There are times when the yields can end up being smaller than expected, especially when you use the light during the plant’s flowering stage
- The light does not reach far, which makes it important to have it positioned closely to the top of the plant
Top 10 Types Best Marijuana Grow Lights 2023
#1 (LED) Roleadro Galaxyhydro Series LED Grow Light Review
This 30-watt grow light has a full-spectrum, making it perfect for all stages of growth of the plant. It has both red and blue spectrums, which will be needed by the marijuana during the vegetative and flowering stages.
Among others, one of the most exceptional features of this product is the heat removal system, which is basically the reason for its ability to stay cool despite long hours of use. This is as against many other that can generate too much heat and burn the plants. This is made possible by the two high-speed fans integrated into the unit.
If you want a light that can deliver energy efficiency, you will have another reason to have it chosen. Because it is LED, you can be confident that it won’t consume too much energy in the absence of compromising its performance.
Q&A: What is the PAR rating of this light?
Based on the specifications from the manufacturer, this model has 453 PAR when it is installed at a height of 18 inches. This is the highest that you can find from any 30-watt grow light. This makes it effective in almost any growing environment.
Q&A: Does it produce a sound?
Yes, the light produces a low hum, nothing that you will find annoying. This is actually quite common for grow lights with a fan. The fan allows air to circulate to prevent it from heating too much. For the fan to function, it creates minimal noise.
#2 (CFL) Sunblaster CFL Grow Lamp Review
This specific product comes in a pack of four, which already makes it a budget-friendly option. Each bulb has 26 watts, which is already quite impressive in terms of its performance. Take note, however, that CFLs are meant only to produce minimal light, which is why it is an ideal choice for clones or when plants are just starting out.
Based on the details from the manufacturer, the rated lifespan of this bulb is 10,000 hours. This is way shorter compared to what you can find in the LED lights that can be used in a grow room setup.
Ease of use is another reason why this can prove to be an excellent product. It fits in the standard light socket, which is why there is no need to install a different base.
Q&A: What is the kelvin scale of the lamp?
Looking at the technical details of this CFL light, you will see that it has 6400 Kelvins. It is a daylight bulb with a color that is comparable to natural sunlight. This makes an excellent choice for a light that is to be used during the vegetative growth of the plant.
Q&A: How long should you turn it on?
There is no definite answer to this question. There are several factors that will have an impact on the answer, such as the specific stage of growth of the plant. In most cases, however, growers note that they leave it on for 12 hours and off for the next 12 hours.
#3 (HID) iPower HPS MH Digital Grow Light System Kit Review
A complete kit with powerful lighting performance – this is what you can expect from this product. Among others, it is exceptional because it already has one 2100k HPS bulb and one 6000k MH bulb. Both of the bulbs are 400 watts. They have optimized spectrum to support the growth of weed.
The 19-inch wing reflector is another thing that makes this a top choice on the market. A reflector is important to improve the intensity of the light while the energy consumption remains the same. The reflective material makes it possible to increase the impact of the light on the plants. The 95% reflective German aluminum is the one that is responsible for this benefit.
Q&A: What are included in this kit?
One of the best things about this product is that it offers excellent value for money, basically because it is inclusive of almost everything that you will need. It has HPA and MH bulbs, both of which are under the category of HID lamp. There is also a hanger rope included, which has a capacity of up to 150 pounds. It is also inclusive of a reflector, plug, and socket.
Q&A: Does it come with a ballast?
Yes, this kit is already inclusive of a ballast, which is already dimmable. Plus, there is already a built-in fan to keep the ballast cool as the light operates.
#4 (MH) Apollo Horticulture GLBMH400 Metal Halide Grow Light Review
This 400-watt bulb is one of the options worth taking into account if you are looking for a grow light that you can use during the vegetative stage of marijuana. It has 4200 Kelvins, which will make it perfect for ensuring the best state of the health of the plant at such stage.
Based on the technical specifications from the manufacturer, the anticipated lifespan is only 10,000 hours.
Q&A: What is the base of this light?
This metal halide grow lamp comes with an E39 base, which is not the standard E26. You need to install a separate ballast to use the light.
Q&A: Is it dimmable?
Yes, the light is dimmable. This is as long as you also have a dimmable ballast. This is good in terms of being able to control the intensity of the light based on what the plant needs.
#5 (HPS) Sun System HPS Grow Light Review
If you are looking for an affordable light that is also user-friendly, this is one option that you have to take into account. This HPS light comes as a kit with almost everything that you will need to complete its assembly.
Aside from the bulb, it also has a reflector hood. The aluminum surface will help to increase the reflectivity of the light. This improves the intensity without the need to add another light or use more electricity.
Q&A: Can you use it for both soil and hydroponics?
This is a versatile grow light. With this, you can use it whether you are planting marijuana in soil or in a hydroponic system. You can expect the same level of effectiveness.
Q&A: What is the recommended size of the growing area for this light?
Based on the reviews from the users of this product, it is good enough for a grow room that is 3×3 feet. If the grow room is larger, you will have to use multiple lights to be sure that the plant receives the intensity that it needs to trigger photosynthetic activity.
#6 (T5) Hydroplanet T5 Grow Lights Review
This is another popular choice amongst commercial growers because it provides a reliable performance without consuming too much energy. It is a 24-watt light with 5,000 lumens.
It comes with plug and play ballasts, which will simplify the process of installation. You can expect that it is going to be user-friendly.
Based on the information from the manufacturer, this has a rated lifespan of 20,000 hours. This is longer compared to the CFL light mentioned in this guide, but shorter compared to the LED light we have mentioned.
Lastly, this grow light comes with a two-year warranty from the manufacturer.
Q&A: Does it include a reflector?
Aside from the four lamps that are already included in this kit, it also includes a reflector. The reflector is made of 95% reflective aluminum. It will help to significantly improve the intensity of the light.
Q&A: Is it for the flowering or vegetative stage?
From the technical details, it shows that the light is 6500 Kelvin and is on the blue spectrum. What this means is that it is better for the vegetative stage. Once the marijuana reaches the flowering stage, take note that you have to change the light.
#7 ViparSpectra XS1000 120W Infrared Full Spectrum LED grow light
We believe that ViparSpectra is currently the leading LED manufacturer with quality product lines and reasonable prices. And among them, this XS1000 120W Infrared Full Spectrum LED grow light deserves to be on your priority list.
This LED grow light provides full spectrum with 660nm of red led, 3000K and 5000K of white led and IR led. These lights can support plants at all stages of growth, including flowering.
In particular, this LED light comes with a flexible dimmer knob that allows growers to adjust the brightness from 5% to 100% brightness. Growers can take advantage of this function to stimulate plants to produce more flowers with growing techniques.
Q&A: How is the coverage of the LEDs?
This LED grow light has a fairly wide coverage. Growers should be set up properly so that this LED can provide the most perfect coverage of 2.5’x2.5’ vegetative coverage at 18” and 2’x2’ flowering coverage at 14” height.
Q&A: Does it come with any warranty?
Yes! ViparSpectra offers customers a 36-Month US Local warranty. In addition, they are also willing to support refunds for customers within 30 days if there is a problem with the order.
#8 ViparSpectra P1500 150W Infrared Full Spectrum LED Grow Light
Another model from ViparSpectra that will definitely not disappoint you. This LED grow light is a high quality model and it can maximize the healthy growth of plants, and cannabis plants when grown indoors.
This model uses the latest SMD LED technology, it provides strong light penetration as well as full and powerful spectrum. This LED grow light provides high PAR power, powerful performance. It is thanks to the use of 150W Sosen driver that the PAR capacity increases, while saving on electricity costs while increasing productivity.
Besides, this model offers extremely full spectrum. It simulates almost natural sunlight policy with 660nm of red led, 3000K and 5000K of white LED and infrared. So growers need not worry as this light will help your cannabis plants grow fast and healthy.
You can also adjust the brightness of this LED with the dimmer button. This dimmer button allows you to adjust the light level from 5-100%, thereby choosing the right light level for each stage of plant growth.
Q&A: What is the coverage of this LED?
This LED has a pretty wide coverage. If growers set up properly, this LED can cover Vegetative stage: 3 x 3 ft at 20” height and Flowering stage: 2.5 x 2.5 ft at 16” height.
Q&A: How is its warranty?
ViparSpectra offers a 36-month warranty with 30-day free returns to customers who purchase their product lines, including this LED light.
#9 ViparSpectra XS2000 240W Infrared Full Spectrum LED Grow Lights
ViparSpectra is a leading manufacturer in the industry of LED grow lights, LED models from them always receive high praise from customers, even the most demanding ones. This model of LED grow light XS2000 from them is one of them.
This model uses the most advanced technology, the most modern and the most quality. The manufacturer has used the Samsung LM301B lamp with the ability to provide the highest performance, best light penetration with full spectrum. So the lifespan of this LED is not a problem, it works stably with high efficiency for a long time.
Besides, the 240W Mean Well driver will surely satisfy you. It enables this LED to operate at outstanding productivity, providing high PAR while saving on electricity costs. You will find this Mean Well driver helps a lot with your electricity bill every month.
The light that this LED produces includes 660nm of red led, 3000K and 5000K of white led and IR led, optimal full spectrum led grow lights. These lights will help maximize indoor plants.
You can also adjust the brightness from 5-100% to suit each stage of plant growth. The cooling system works well enough to keep the LEDs cool even when it has to work continuously.
Q&A: Is this LED setup difficult?
Absolutely not! The product lines of ViparSpectra are designed to bring the most convenience to customers. They are fully prepared and growers don’t have to spend much effort to set it up. And even newbie growers won’t have a hard time.
#10 ViparSpectra V1200 1200W Full Spectrum led Grow Light
Another model from ViparSpectra that we think you should add to your priority list. This is a full spectrum LED grow light that will help house plants, especially cannabis plants, grow healthy and fast.
This V1200 LED from ViparSpectra is built with the most advanced engineering and technology. This model also received UL certification so customers can be assured of its quality and safety.
Besides, this lamp provides full spectrum, simulates natural sunlight, maximum support for all stages of plant development from germination to harvest.
This model has VEG & BLOOM double channel. You can switch these channels to suit each growing stage of the crop. For example, the VEG channel with blue and white light mainly, will be suitable for the germination and start of the growth of young plants. And the BLOOM channel with red light will support the most optimal flowering and fruiting plants.
Q&A: Does this LED make noise?
No! These LEDs use upgraded aluminum cooling heat sinks and advanced high-speed quiet fans for the cooling system, so they don’t make any annoying noises at all.
Best Grow Lights on the Market: Making the Right Choice
Thinking about what lights are best for growing plant in an indoor grow room? Chances are, you will be overwhelmed with the possibilities. Nonetheless, make sure to consider the factors that will be mentioned below to help you choose the best marijuana grow light on the market.
Spectrum
Lights come in different spectrums, which is why it is one of the most important considerations when narrowing down the possibilities. The best light spectrum for plants will depend on its growth. For the vegetative phase, the blue spectrum is recommended. On the other hand, to induce flowering, choose lights with red spectrum. Full-spectrum light, meanwhile, can be used at all stages of growth.
Wattage
This will be directly proportional to the power of the light. If you have a large grow room, you will need to invest in a more powerful light. On the other hand, if space is small and if the wattage is too much, you will most probably end up burning the plant.
Speaking of wattage, it will determine the right height between the plant and the lamp. If you are using an HID grow light, here is the suggested distance:
- 400-watt HID: 12 to 19 inches
- 600-watt HID: 14 to 25 inches
- 1,000-watt HID: 16 to 31 inches
On the other hand, if you are using LED lights, here is a quick guide for you to follow:
- 240 to 400-watt LED: 16 to 30 inches
- 450 to 550-watt LED: 20 to 30 inches
- 600 to 850-watt LED: 24 to 26 inches
- 900-watt and above LED: 26 to 42 inches
Lastly, if you are using CFLs and T5s, you can position them about five inches above the canopy of the plant. They do not produce intense heat, which is why there is a slim chance that it is going to burn the plant.
Lumen
Scientifically speaking, lumen refers to the amount of light that is emitted per second from a specific source. For the marijuana to be healthy, it needs to be exposed to a certain amount of lumens, which is why you need to choose a light that will be able to produce such. For each plant, the minimum requirement would be around 2,500 to 3,000 lumens per square foot. During the vegetative stage, the plant may need up to 5,000. Meanwhile, during the flowering phase, it might need as much as 10,000 lumens.
Kelvin
As you pick the best lights for indoor growing, another technical specification that would matter is the Kelvin. This also refers to the light color or light temperature. During the growing or vegetative phase, choose a light that has about 6400 kelvins, which has a daylight or cool color. It has a blue spectrum. This will replicate the color of the sun during summer or spring.
On the other hand, for the flowering stage, it should be about 2700 kelvins, which is warm and has a red spectrum. It has a color similar to that of the sun during fall or winter.
Best Light for Weed: Other Things that you Need to Know
Before we end this post, allow us to share with you other important things that you need to know when it comes to marijuana and light, which will make you a more educated grower.
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Duration
The duration at which the light should be turned on and off will depend on the stage of growth of the plant. Generally speaking, during the vegetation phase, the light needs to be turned on for 18 hours and turned off for 6 hours. On the other hand, during the flowering phase, it should be on for 12 hours and off for 12 hours.
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Amount of light
The amount of light in the grow room is also an important consideration. This will depend on the size of the room or the number of the plants that are present. For every 10 square feet of a grow room, you will need at least 30,000 lumens of light. Larger grow rooms will definitely need more than just one grow light.
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Height
You also have to pay attention to the height between the plant and the light. If it is too close, the plant can suffer from stress. If it is too far, the light will most probably be useless. The type of light that you are using and the wattage will have an impact on the right positioning.
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Reflector
Using a reflector can also be an option. If you have a large grow room and if you do not need to install new lights or increase your energy consumption, a reflective material will help improve the intensity of the light.
Wrap Up
The best grow lights are indeed important for marijuana cultivated in an enclosed environment. Not all of the lights, however, can prove to be promising. For instance, you need to choose one based on the stage of the growth of the plant. To avoid having regrets, limit your choices to the products that have been mentioned in this post.
