In today’s article, we’ll go over some of the best LED grow lights available.
As you’re no doubt aware, if there’s one thing that plants need to thrive, it’s light. So it’s of crucial importance that you pick the right lighting system when starting a grow set-up.
There are many different tried and tested lighting solutions out there, all produce some impressive results, but with the advancement in LED technology in recent years, more people are starting to realize the benefits of incorporating LED grow lights into their grow setups.
LED grow lights are still a long way off from overtaking the traditionally used lighting systems in terms of popularity and pricing for the home grower, but significant inroads have been made. It now seems it’s only a matter of time before LED grow lights becomes the standard for indoor growers worldwide.
ViparSpectra XS1500 LED Grow Light
As cannabis regulations ease and the demand for efficient lighting solutions for home-gardeners increases — the need for a high-quality grow light system is more apparent than ever.
With this in mind, we’ll review the ViparSpectra XS1500 LED grow light. Read along to discover the benefits of this fantastic, budget-friendly, LED grow light.
From PAR-rated light output to its high-efficiency components, you’ll learn why the ViparSpectra XS1500 is on every cannabis grower’s wish list.
The securely-packaged ViparSpectra XS1500 LED grow light arrived at lightning-fast speed — something we’re not quite used to. Immediately after opening the box, we removed the ViparSpectra XS1500 to look it over.
Everything was as it should be, as in, the shiny ViparSpectra XS1500 was brand-new and ready for immediate hook-up to the nearest outlet.
In our eyes, nothing beats out-of-the-box readiness. In other words, we were thrilled to see that the ViparSpectra doesn’t require any assembly. Instead, the ViparSpectra XS1500 is plug-and-play ready.
XS1500 Light Performance
After unboxing the ViparSpectra XS1500 LED grow light, the first thing on the agenda was to flex its lumens. ViparSpectra claims that the XS1500 LED generates 70% more light output than others. We couldn’t help but agree from the moment we kicked on the light.
The ultra-bright light was dazzling, and you’d be grateful to have a pair of sunglasses on hand before turning this beast on. Now, let’s take a look at the inner-components of the ViparSpectra XS1500 that make all of this PAR-packed light a possibility.
ViparSpectra XS1500’s High-Grade Components
We don’t like to throw around the words, high-quality lightly. However, the ViparSpectra XS1500 LED grow light is value on top of value. Here’s a brief list of components that convinced us that the engineers at ViparSpectra mean business.
Meanwell LED Driver
ViparSpectra’s XS1500 LED grow light system utilizes Mean Well’s HLG driver to provide robust and stable energy output.
Overall, the onboard Mean Well HLG driver consumes 150-watts and is given a mind-blowing 94% efficiency rating. With such a high-efficiency rating, we’re not surprised that the ViparSpectra XS1500 produces sun-like light for well over 62,000 grow hours.
Optimized Dimmer-Switch
Furthermore, the onboard dimmer-switch allows us to quickly adjust the light output intensity from 5-100%.
As all cannabis cultivators know, controlling light output during various growth stages is crucial. Therefore, we’re thrilled to see a wide-ranging dimmer-switch on the ViparSpectra XS1500 LED grow light system.
Passive Cooling System
Although we found the ViparSpectra XS1500 grow light system to run a tad warmer than expected — it’s still far cooler than many other tested LED grow lights.
Overall, the XS1500 offers a large aluminum heat sink that dissipates heat, slows light decay, and offsets the need for an onboard fan. Thanks to the onboard passive cooling system — the XS1500 LED is totally silent and is music to our ears.
Samsung Diodes
Last but not least are the Samsung LM301B diodes.
ViparSpectra lives up to its name by harnessing Samsung’s LM301B diodes’ power to produce unparalleled PAR-rating.
Furthermore, the diodes come in Warm White LED, White LED, Deep Red LED, and IR Red for an enhanced color spectrum for cannabis plants.
As noted earlier — the result of the Samsung diodes is a sun-like effect that drenches cannabis leaves and buds in usable light.
XS1500 Light Footprint & Who It’s For?
Now, let’s talk about who the ViparSpectra XS1500 LED grow light system is for.
The recommended space coverage for the ViparSpectra XS1500 is 2’x2‘. Therefore, the XS1500 LED grow light is ideally suited towards indoor cannabis cultivators that are limited in space.
From closet grows to 2’x2′ grow tents — the ViparSpectra XS1500 LED performed exceedingly well. In our experience, the XS1500’s light footprint was optimal in our veg garden that measured 2.5’x2.5’.
However, the ViparSpectra XS1500 excelled in providing ample light to a 2’x2′ space once in the flowering phase.
Overall, the ViparSpectra is suitable for use during:
- Seed germination
- Seedling stage
- Juvenile stage
- Vegetative stage
- Flowering stage
As you can see — the XS1500 LED grow light is all you need to grow a substantial trichome-packed yield.
Overall, we can’t help but give ViparSpectra’s XS1500 LED grow light top marks.
Every aspect of the XS1500, from light output to lifespan, exhibited a high-value that shouldn’t be passed up. At 0.15 kWh per hour, the XS1500 is perfect for beginners and professional cannabis cultivators alike that don’t want to spend an arm-and-a-leg on electricity bills.
Ultimately, the ViparSpectra XS1500 LED grow light is value-packed and ready to illuminate your grow room with rich lighting that cannabis plants crave.
Pros
- High harvest potential
- Incredibly affordable
- Ideal for small spaces
- 36-Month US Local warranty and 30-day money-back guarantee
- Highly rated
- Quality components & build
- Great price
- Responsive customer support
- Well packaged
- Speedy delivery & worldwide shipping
Cons
- Multiple lights needed for larger grow rooms
Spider Farmer SF-4000 LED Grow Light
When searching for the ‘sweet spot’ of LED grow lights, we’ve always noticed that it’s found with LED lights that can cover a minimum of 4’x4’. This amount of space is commonly found in grow tents and makeshift grow rooms.
However, with so many different LED grow light designs on the market – we decided it’s time to sift through the chaff and find a top-level performer.
For this review, we’re using the Spider Farmer SF-4000 LED grow light to see how well it handles a 4’x4’ grow space and if it can push out our cannabis plants to the limit. Read along to see why we’re so keen on the Spider Farmer SF-4000 LED grow light – and why you need to consider it for your next indoor grow.
The first thing we did when our Spider Farmer 4000 LED grow light arrived at our door, we did what any other indoor grow enthusiast does – we tore the box apart to get straight to the goods.
What we found underneath a substantial amount of packaging was an artfully crafted LED grow light. The Spider Farmer SF-4000 LED grow light didn’t fail to impress upon the first inspection. Everything, from the driver to each diode – everything had a breath of confidence and craftsmanship.
After looking at the SF-4000 LED grow light over – we also noticed that it comes equipped with everything you need to set up the entire unit in a jiff. The main power cable is attached to the driver, and you’ll notice convenient rope hangers, hanger hooks, and a handy manual for installation.
We didn’t watch a video on setting up the Spider Farmer SF4000 LED grow light – nor did we read the manual. However, we set this LED grow light system up in under 10-minutes – which is about as long as it took for our ginger tea to brew in the meantime.
In other words, setting up the Spider Farmer SF-4000 LED grow light is beyond simple. As long as you pre-drilled hangers into your ceiling or you already set up your indoor grow tent – then hanging this LED grow light is a breeze.
Switching on the Spider Farmer SF4000
Once the Spider Farmer SF4000 LED grow light was set up – it was time for the moment of truth. We turned the unit on, and we were immediately dazed by the full-spectrum light that cascaded from each diode.
It was a pleasant surprise; however, not all light is created equal. The reason behind this is the fact that plants rely on PAR-rated lighting, which is the type of light that they harness for photosynthesis.
After breaking out our light meters, we verified that the Spider Farmer SF-4000 LED grow light, and did in fact, push out a full-spectrum light that’s filled with the perfect color wavelengths.
After turning the Spider Farmer SF-4000 LED grow light, we understood why this beast of a grow light needs ample distance from your cannabis plant canopy. We felt that 18” was just right, which promoted rapid growth and leaves that reached for the sky.
Spider Farmer SF-4000 Coverage
Just as we had hoped – the Spider Farmer SF-4000 LED grow light covered a 4’x4’ space with ease. We quickly realized that this LED could cover up to a 6’x6’ grow space, which we felt was an added bonus.
Thanks to the efficient Samsung chips, the Spider Farmer SF-4000 LED grow light created an impressive amount of light without a significant boost in heat output. We found this to be incredible, especially when you consider that this LED unit is fanless.
Depending on the growing techniques that you choose to employ, along with plant count and overall size – the Spider Farmer SF-4000 LED grow light excels at illuminating a large amount of space.
Not only does the SF4000 LED grow light drench the cannabis canopy – but it also excels in penetrating the canopy to boost growth on lower leaves.
Once it was time for the flowering stage, which means the cannabis plant is at its maximum height, we noticed that a 5’x5’ space was ideal for a single Spider Farmer SF-4000 LED grow light. If you have a larger space than this, then it’s recommended to purchase a second to assure optimal growth.
All-in-all, the Spider Farmer SF-4000 LED grow light is a value-packed LED system. Although it’s not the cheapest LED light on the market – it does pump out an abundance of lumens that are sure to impress your cannabis plants.
Furthermore, the streamlined design and the implementation of high-end materials make a totally silent LED grow light. This fact is ideal for those who value their privacy or for those who can’t stand the never-ending hum of traditional LED or HID lighting systems.
Ultimately, the Spider Farmer only consumes 456-watts from the wall. This means that you’ll cut your electricity bill in half once you switch from energy-hungry HIDs.
We understand that it’s hard to have everything, such as reduced bills, increased yield, and decreased heat, but with the Spider Farmer SF-4000 LED grow light – you can.
Pros
- Perfect for larger sized grow tents
- Quantum boards for superb lighting
- Well-built LED
- Runs silent and reduces heat significantly
Cons
- Some diodes dimmed well before the average lifespan
- Plants can be bleached if placed too close to the LED
AC Infinity IONBOARD Grow Light
If you’re looking for a quality American-made product that’s competitively priced, then look no further than IONBOARD from AC Infinity. This top-rated grow light is made with care and precision in the USA, and it offers the indoor cultivator great value for your money from a brand you can trust.
The AC Infinity IONBOARD grow light is an indoor-specific, full-spectrum LED light that has 5 dimmable settings and features unibody aluminum boards.
The IONBOARD S44 version grow light also has daisy-chaining capabilities for easy use, and its optimized spectrum helps to promote healthy growth in plants. With dimensions of 24 x 24 inches and a coverage area of 4 x 4 feet, this light is perfect for medium-sized grow operations.
Additionally, the IONBOARD includes 1024 diodes with an output of 2.75 µmol/j and 1854 PPFD, making it one of the more affordable LED grow lights with this spec on the market.
The AC Infinity IONBOARD full spectrum Samsung LM301B LED grow light features easy-to-use knobs that control brightness from 0 to 100%, and has the ability to connect with the AC Infinity Smart Controller.
The IONBOARD S44 provides an even light distribution, while the IP-65 rating makes it perfect for hotter environments. Plus, there are four sizes available so you can find the perfect coverage for your grow space. –
- AC Infinity IONBOARD S22
- AC Infinity IONBOARD S24
- AC Infinity IONBOARD S33
- AC Infinity IONBOARD S44
AC Infinity also has an innovative patented halo ring design in the IONGRID Grow Light Series. The IONGRID comes in the various sizes –
- AC Infinity IONGRID S22
- AC Infinity IONGRID S33
- AC Infinity IONGRID S24
- AC Infinity IONGRID S44
- AC Infinity IONGRID T22
- AC Infinity IONGRID T33
- AC Infinity IONGRID T24
- AC Infinity IONGRID T44
Pros
- Dimmer Provides 0 to 100% brightness
- Connection Capabilities With AC Infinity Smart Controller
- IP-65 Rated
- innovative halo ring
- Solid Build Quality
- Made & Ships In The USA
- 4 Size Variations Available - S22/S24/S33/S44
- Competitively Priced
- Highly Rated
- Popular Brand
Cons
- Not Widely Available For UK Customers From Online Retailers
HLG Scorpion Diablo
HLG Scorpion Diablo Grow Light is designed for growrooms with vertical racks or low ceiling heights. This quality, durable, highly rated, reliable, passive-cooled designed grow light, really would be a great addition to anyone’s grow, beginner or professional.
The HLG Scorpion Diablo is one of the Highest efficient full spectrum grow lamps currently available, and the many happy growers and online reviews are a testament to that.
Featuring full Spectrum White and 660nm Red, with better canopy penetration with diffused light, Samsung LM301H, inventronics driver, dimmable power supply, 6x QB648 Diablo Quantum boards for an evenly distributed light spread, with an efficiency of 2.9 PPF/W.
The Auto-sensing Inventronics power supply works on the following –
- 120VAC
- 240VAC
- 277VAC
Also included is a 5 Year warranty as well as being ETL/UL Certified, all in all, HLG (Horticulture Lighting Group) produces some top quality lights at some great competitive prices.
Pros
- Top Quality Construction
- 5 - Year Warranty
- Top Rated
- Even Light Spread
Cons
- Pricey
MARS HYDRO SP 250 Led Grow Light
The Mars Hydro SP250 is meant for a multitude of applications, from greenhouse growing to indoor cannabis gardening. Thanks to multiple features, Mars Hydro SP250 is an excellent piece of hardware for your cannabis plants.
First and foremost, The SP250 pulls 230-watts from the wall and is meant to replace 2,000-watts of traditional HID lighting. For those of you who have experience with HID lighting – this is a massive difference.
When all is said and done, your electricity bill will be a fraction of what you’re used to paying with traditional HID grow light systems. Thanks to the efficient diodes that the Mars Hydro SP250 utilizes, along with the IR, UV, and full-spectrum bonuses – this is a true grow light contender.
The SP250 is built similarly to T5 CFL lights, which are long in shape. These units perform exceedingly well when paired with multiple units. However, the SP250 doesn’t come cheap, which may sway would-be buyers to a different design.
However, if you need a rugged LED grow light system that’s ready for any environment, then Mars Hydro’s SP250 LED grow light is king.
Pros
- Good Price
- Top Rated
- Quality Build
Cons
- Best for Smaller Grows
Black Dog LED PhytoMAX Grow Light
Black Dog LED is a leading LED grow light manufacturer based in the USA. Highly respected by both cultivators and other LED brands, Black Dog are passionate about producing quality lights at an affordable price.
The Black Dog LED PhytoMAX-2 1000 Grow Light delivers power without hot spots. Compact, sleek, and powerful, the Black Dog PhytoMAX-2 penetrates even the thickest of canopies providing nourishment to the lower leaves and flowers.
If you’re looking for huge yields (who isn’t?) with more trichomes and a higher quality of flower, then give this exceptional grow light a try.
The coverage area of this specific model is about 42 square feet. Which has been independently verified with spectroradiometer testing.
Featuring an innovative and unique Phyto-Genesis Spectrum with over 6 years of testing and research behind it, the Black Dog LED PhytoMAX-2 1000 Grow Light outperforms your HPS, MH, CMH (LEC), induction, fluorescent, and “white”, so-called “full-spectrum” LEDs!
The patent-pending PhytoMAX-2 1000 LED grow lights are some of the most powerful and reliable LED grow lights available, with the highest-quality, latest-tech, and top-bin LEDs!
Also included is a quick start reference guide booklet, “Maximum Yields – The Dirt Simple Guide to Using LED Grow Lights” an easy to read and digest guide that will help you get your grow underway.
Pros
- Based in the USA
- High-quality construction
- Sturdy design
- Highly rated
Cons
- High upfront cost
What You Need to Know Before Buying LED Grow Lights
As with anything, it’s unwise to jump head first into something that you don’t fully understand.
If you’re considering buying LED grow lights, then read along to become acquainted with this type of product before you make a substantial purchase.
Who’ll Benefit from Owning a LED Grow Lights?
The individuals that will benefit from owning LED grow lights are those that absolutely want to reduce their electricity bill.
If you’ve grown cannabis with HID lighting, then you know how big of a surprise the electricity bill can be during the summer months.
HID lighting increases the heat in your room, so not only are you using an abundant amount of energy with the lights alone, but you also create the need to cool your room down with additional electricity through the use of an AC unit.
This pairing puts stress on your electricity consumption, which eventually results in an eye-popping electricity bill.
Growers who are looking to become cost-effective will benefit from using LED grow lights because they emit far less heat, which decreases the strain on your AC unit.
Another type of grower that will benefit from owning LED grow lights is one that is compelled to reduce his or her carbon footprint.
Each HID light provides a massive amount of lighting, but at an environmental cost. The more electricity that’s consumed is directly the result of power plants producing this energy.
Growers who cultivate cannabis in small places are also a large contingent who’ll benefit from using LED grow lights. Smaller rooms require less intense lighting, and they become heat traps when a HID system is placed within.
There’s no reason why you’d place a 1,000-watt HPS light inside of a 2’x2’ grow tent as this would destroy your crop quickly unless you have an incredibly efficient AC system in place.
Just like growers using small spaces, hobbyist growers that would like to experiment with cannabis cultivation will benefit from full spectrum LED grow lights because they incur small electricity bills, reduce the need for AC systems, and are far more eco-friendly.
Who Won’t Benefit From LED Grow Lights?
The main individuals that won’t benefit from LED grow lights are commercial producers.
Those who are obligated to provide hundreds or thousands of pounds of cannabis will normally use traditional lighting (HIDs) or commercial-specific plasma lighting.
Although professional growers use LED grow lights, major producers are used to cultivating marijuana with metal halide and high-pressure sodium bulbs.
Most commercial operations are fully outfitted with AC systems and environmental controllers that allow the grow room to be completely automated.
This doesn’t mean that their method is efficient since they can drastically reduce their operating costs by incorporating LED grow lights into their operation.
Before Buying an LED Grow Light
Now that you know who will benefit from owning an LED grow light let’s take a look at what you need to think about before becoming a part of the LED community.
Why Are You Buying an LED Grow Light?
You need to remember why you’re doing this in the first place. It’s crucial that you remember that you aren’t willing to pay the high price of electricity due to HID lighting.
LED grow light technology is new, but it’s been proven by the agricultural industry. When you consider it, the high price of electricity makes your cannabis cultivation endeavors null because you’re essentially paying more rather than if you paid the retail cost of cannabis products at a storefront dispensary.
Now’s the time to produce cannabis on your own time, all while paying less and becoming self-sufficient.
How Many Plants Will You Grow?
This is a fundamental question that you must ask yourself, regardless of the type of lighting system that you intend on using. The number of plants that you grow will directly affect the type of LED grow light that you should purchase.
Most cannabis-friendly states allow residents to grow up to 6 mature cannabis plants, but this isn’t always the case. There are states that allow only 3, and others allow upwards of 9.
Some states allow you to act as a caregiver to others and increase your plant count. This issue is further complicated if you’re one of the lucky few to have received a cultivators’ license from your local jurisdiction.
In general, 4 plants within a square meter will benefit from a 600-watt LED grow light. The higher you raise your lights to accommodate for more plants, the PAR (photosynthetic photon flux) value becomes increased.
When the light density for photosynthesis increases, the less light your plant receives. This is why it’s crucial for you to consider your plant count and plant size to make sure that your
LED grow light is sufficient. If your LED grow light is too large for your space, you become inefficient. The same occurs if you buy a too small LED grow light, which leads to inefficiency.
To realize the benefits of LED technology, you must find the ideal balance by accommodating the correct number of plants.
How Large is Your Grow Room?
If you’re growing within a 2’x2’ closet space, then you’ll have a far easier time finding an adequate LED grow light.
If your grow area is a 15’x 15’, then you’ll need to place multiple LED grow lights at strategic points to ensure your entire marijuana canopy is covered.
When growing in larger areas, you’ll need to have a pre-determined plan that considers how tall your plants will be, how many plants, and their exact location.
If you can provide all of these details, then you’ll be better equipped to purchase the correct amount of LED grow lights.
What’s Your Budget?
Unfortunately, LED grow lights still command a high price. These devices are cost-effective in the long run, so it’s essential that you understand that there will be a significant upfront cost when purchasing a new LED grow light.
Similar to the solar industry, the upfront cost scares away many, but the long-term savings pay for the unit and then some in as little as a year of use.
Recap
After looking at the pros and cons of the LED grow lights that we’ve featured in today’s review, our top pick is the Spider Farmer SF-4000 LED Grow Light.
When on a budget, or if you’re a beginner to intermediate grower, then you can’t go too far wrong when opting for the newest Spider Farmer SF-4000 LED Grow Light.
With superb build quality, plus starting from an excellent price point, the Spider Farmer Grow Light is fantastic value for money.
Share the Love
If you found this post useful, please let others know about it by sharing it.