Life-filled coral reefs are natural beauties. Replicating this vibrant habitat in a home tank is complex. LED reef lights can make this possible. However, you need the right LED reef lighting system to support coral development and a stunning underwater display.
It’s hard to pick the right one from the plethora of options available in the market. Before making a decision, consider these key elements.
- Light Spectrum: Find coral-friendly full-spectrum lights. LED spectrums like blue, white, red, and sometimes UV or violet are ideal.
- Waterproofing: Opt for marine-grade lights. Buy fixtures with waterproof ratings (IP67, IPX7, IPX5) to avoid water damage and corrosion.
- Coverage Area: Check LED fixture coverage. Ensure it fits your reef tank to distribute light evenly across the tank. A fixture with adjustable lenses or several LED clusters can cover unusual tank designs.
- Adaptability: Choose lights that easily integrate with controllers, dimmers, or other light fixtures to support reef tank setup adjustments or upgrades.
Best LED Reef Lights Table
| LED Reef Lights | Wattage | No. of LEDs | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| VIPARSPECTRA LED Reef Light | 300 watts | 165 LEDs | Check On Amazon |
| NICREW LED Reef Light | 50 watts | 24 LEDs | Check On Amazon |
| WILLS LED Aquarium Light | 165 watts | 55 LEDs | Check On Amazon |
| Current USA LED Reef Light | 46 watts | 12 LEDs | Check On Amazon |
| Phlizon Aquarium LED Light | 165 watts | 55 LEDs | Check On Amazon |
| Hipargero Reef Light | 100 watts | 100 LEDs | Check On Amazon |
| SMATFARM Reef Light | 60 watts | 26 LEDs | Check On Amazon |
Best LED Reef Lights Reviews
1. VIPARSPECTRA LED Reef Light
VIPARSPECTRA introduces the V165 LED aquarium light, meticulously crafted to optimize the vitality of your marine aquarium. With its comprehensive spectrum, this light fosters robust growth and vitality among your corals and aquatic life. Equipped with a built-in timer, adjustable dimming options, and efficient heat dissipation, the V165 stands out as an indispensable tool for cultivating an optimal aquatic habitat. Its efficacy lies in its meticulously balanced PAR output, delivering uniform light distribution tailored to the photosynthetic requirements of corals.
What distinguishes the V165 is its thoughtful design, informed by insights from the reef-keeping community, ensuring it surpasses the expectations of enthusiasts. Featuring intuitive controls for brightness and timing, complemented by a convenient remote, this light facilitates effortless customization. Engineered to accentuate the natural allure of your aquarium, it promotes the well-being of corals and fish through unparalleled light quality and adaptability. Thus, the V165 transcends mere illumination, emerging as a cornerstone for dedicated aquarists committed to nurturing a vibrant marine ecosystem.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 16×8.5×2.4 inches
- Weight: 7.6 lbs
- Coverage: Ideal for 24”x24”, Max 30”x24” at 8″ height
- Power Draw: 105W±3%
- LEDs: 55pcs High Intensity 3W Bridgelux/Epileds
- Channels: Violet, Royal Blue, Blue, Green, Red, Neutral White, Cool White
- Lens Angle: 90°
- Input Voltage: AC100-240V
- Frequency: 50-60Hz
- Lifespan: 100,000 hours
- Warranty: 1 year + 30 days satisfaction guarantee
Pros
- Full spectrum and dimmable channels cater to all coral needs.
- Built-in timer and remote control offer convenience and customization.
- Exceptional coverage and PAR output for vibrant coral growth.
Cons
- Remote control may require a learning curve for optimal use.
2. NICREW LED Reef Light
The NICREW 50 Watts LED Reef Light revolutionizes your aquarium by providing full spectrum illumination, encompassing essential blue, red, green, and Violet+UV lights to promote vibrant coral growth and vivid colors. This innovative lighting solution efficiently caters to small to medium reef tanks, ensuring even light distribution with a coverage of up to 24″ x 24″ and delivering a peak PAR value of 128µMol at a depth of 24 inches. Its design mirrors the serene shimmer of natural sunlight beneath the ocean, enhancing the allure of your marine setup.
This reef lighting features a smart fan technology to maintain optimal operating temperatures, extending both its efficiency and lifespan. While, the dimmable function offers flexibility, allowing you to tailor the light intensity and spectrum according to the unique requirements of your tank. Easy to install, with versatile mounting options, it accommodates various aquarium designs.
Specifications
- Style: Modern
- Special Feature: Dimmable
- Light Source Type: LED
- Max Spread: 24″ x 24″
- Peak PAR: 128µMol at 24″ depth
- Smart Fans: Yes
- Control: Touch control for intensity and spectrum adjustment
- Mounting: Tank mount included, hanging kit available
- Spectrum: Full color with UV for fluorescence
- PAR Requirements: Suitable for soft corals, LPS, and hard corals
- Compatibility: HyperReef Controller for auto programming
Pros
- Full spectrum light enhances coral growth and coloration.
- Smart fans ensure optimal working conditions for LEDs.
- Dimmable and independently controllable channels for customized lighting.
Cons
- Some issues with reliability over time.
3. Phlizon Aquarium LED Light
The Phlizon 165W LED Aquarium Light, with its dimmable full spectrum capability, is engineered for the vibrant and healthy development of both plant life and corals in your aquarium. Offering a rich blend of UV, blue, purple, red, white, and green light, it perfectly meets the complex needs of aquatic ecosystems. This versatile light is ideal for aquariums up to 57 gallons, ensuring every corner is well-lit and flourishing.
Designed with a focus on promoting photosynthesis and oxygenation, the Phlizon LED enhances the natural beauty and health of your aquarium. Its double dimmer feature allows for the careful adjustment of light intensity, aiding in the gentle acclimation of aquatic life to their environment and fostering overall well-being. The addition of a secondary optical crystal lens intensifies light penetration for clearer, brighter water. This light’s superior PAR value and comprehensive spectrum are crucial for nurturing vibrant coral reefs and fish, making it a fundamental addition for dedicated aquarists.
Specifications
- Style: Modern
- Dimensions: 20″x7″x2.4″
- Special Features: 2-way switching, Dimmable
- Coverage: Perfect for 24″x24″x24″ tank, Max 36″x36″x36″
- Power: 165W (55pcs * 3W LEDs)
- Voltage: 85-265V
- Lifespan: 50,000 hours
- Spectrum: Full, including UV, Blue, Purple, Red, White, Green
- PAR Value: High, 858 at 24″ height
- Channels: 2 Dimming Channels (0%-100%)
- Cooling: Powerful cooling fan, Daisy chain function
Pros
- Full spectrum supports healthy plant and coral growth.
- Double dimmer allows for precise light intensity control.
- High PAR value ensures deep tank penetration and vibrant colors.
Cons
- Some experienced a high failure rate and issues with rust.
4. WILLS LED Aquarium Light
WILLS 165W LED Aquarium Light is your key to a brilliantly lit aquatic world. Designed with precision, this light fixture delivers powerful illumination that deeply penetrates your aquarium, ensuring every part, down to the sandbed, is vividly lit. Perfect for aquariums up to 57 gallons and 24 inches deep, it offers extensive coverage up to 36″x36″x36″. Tailored to foster the growth and vibrant colors of your plants and corals, it’s an ideal match for both saltwater and freshwater settings.
This lighting solution is equipped with dual dimming channels, allowing for a tailored lighting experience that supports the thriving of both SPS and LPS corals. Utilizing efficient SMD chip technology, it shines brightly without sacrificing energy efficiency or environmental sustainability. Built to last, its sturdy design and versatile mounting options make for easy installation. Additionally, the light’s innovative cooling system operates quietly, while its capability to daisy chain with other lights offers flexibility for expansive aquarium setups, creating a serene and beautifully illuminated environment for your aquatic life.
Specifications
- Material: Metal
- Finish Type: Painted
- Light Source Type: LED
- Dimensions: 15.7″x8.3″x2.4″
- Power: 165W LED
- Coverage: Up to 36″x36″x36″
- Dimming: 3 Modes & 0-100% range
- Cooling: Quiet fans & heat dissipation
- Mounting: Sturdy hanging hooks
- Additional: Daisy chain up to 5 units
Pros
- Intense and full-spectrum illumination enhances coral and plant growth.
- Energy-efficient SMD chips reduce environmental impact.
- Customizable lighting with dual dimming channels.
Cons
- Some increase in algae growth under certain settings.
5. Current USA LED Reef Light
The CURRENT LED marks your reef tank with its advanced lighting technology, offering a vivid and dynamic underwater experience. It showcases your aquarium in vibrant colors and detailed brightness, thanks to a comprehensive spectrum that includes Dual Actinic blue, Dual Daylight white, and RGB LEDs. Engineered with 90° spherical optical lenses, this system ensures optimal light distribution for coral health and stunning fluorescence. Its ultra-slim profile, less than half an inch thick, enhances the aquarium’s visual appeal without the bulkiness of traditional fixtures.
Setting up this light is effortless, with adjustable brackets to accommodate a variety of tank dimensions. It’s programmed to replicate a natural 24-hour light cycle, gradually transitioning from dawn to dusk, including effects like cloud cover and moonlight. Moreover, the Orbit Marine IC LED is part of the innovative LOOP system, a groundbreaking approach to integrating aquarium lighting, pumps, and accessories into one easily managed network. This integration not only simplifies control but also enriches the aquatic environment with effects like flowing water currents and simulated storms, elevating the overall ambiance of your reef aquarium.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 5.1″D x 49″W x 4.1″H
- Special Feature: Dimmable, Full Spectrum
- Light Source Type: LED
- Spectrum: Dual Actinic, Dual Daylight, RGB
- Installation: Extendable brackets
- Effects: Cloud cover, storm modes, lunar and dusk
- Control: 24 Hour IR Lighting & eFlux Wave Pump Control
- Compatibility: 48-60″ tanks
Pros
- Full spectrum control for vibrant coral growth and fluorescence.
- Slim design enhances aquarium aesthetics without bulky fixtures.
- Easy setup and extendable brackets accommodate a range of tank sizes.
Cons
- Some issues with the remote control responsiveness.
6. Hipargero Reef Light
Hipargero’s 100-watt Aquarium Lights present an innovative lighting solution tailored for the unique demands of SPS and LPS corals in saltwater tanks. Crafted with a sleek black aluminium finish, this light goes beyond mere illumination to accurately replicate the natural light cycle from dawn to dusk, including moonlit nights, through its five distinct channels. Its 34 powerful 5W SMD LEDs promise not only efficiency but also a brilliance that enhances coral coloration and growth.
Ease of use is central to this design, featuring remote and touch controls for straightforward adjustments and the capability for group management, ideal for coordinating lighting across larger setups. The OLED display adds a contemporary touch, offering clear insights into your settings while conserving energy with an automatic shutdown function. A well-designed cooling system ensures the LEDs operate under ideal conditions, prolonging their service life. With its adjustable aluminium stand, the light can be positioned to suit tanks of various sizes, making it a versatile addition to any saltwater aquarium.
Specifications
- Material: Aluminium
- Finish Type: Polished
- Light Source Type: LED
- Shade Material: Acrylic
- Power: 100W
- LEDs: 34pcs 5W SMD
- Channels: 5 with 0-100% dimming
- Lens Angle: 107° central, 90° surrounding
- Waterproof Rating: IP65
- Display: OLED screen
- Control: Remote & touch, group control
- Warranty: 1 Year
Pros
- Five independent channels allow for fully customizable lighting.
- High-quality SMD LEDs provide bright, energy-efficient illumination.
- Sturdy and adjustable aluminium stand accommodates various tank sizes.
Cons
- Some issues with customer service responsiveness.
7. SMATFARM Reef Light
The SMATFARM Aquarium Light emerges as a beacon of innovation for coral aficionados, offering unmatched customization and effectiveness in aquarium lighting. Boasting a 60W output, this modern black fixture is loaded with 26 premium 5W SMD LEDs, shedding brighter, more efficient light on your marine setup. Its capability to mimic the natural progression of daylight, from sunrise through sunset to moonlight, via three adjustable channels, meets the varied lighting needs of SPS, LPS, and other coral types in saltwater aquariums. A special lens that resists UV damage ensures maximum light penetration, fostering not just growth but also the rich, natural coloration of corals.
Designed for effortless operation, the light integrates touch and remote controls, simplifying adjustments. The OLED display offers immediate insight into configurations and performance, while a sophisticated cooling system prolongs the LEDs’ lifespan by keeping them at an optimal temperature. The durable aluminium stand, adaptable for different tank sizes and equipped with an adjustable head, allows precise positioning. Enhanced with 2.4G wireless control and backed by a one-year warranty, the SMATFARM Aquarium Light is a standout choice for those seeking a dependable, high-quality lighting environment for their marine aquarium.
Specifications
- Material: Aluminium
- Light Source Type: LED
- Shade Material: Glass, Aluminium
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Power: 60W
- LEDs: 26pcs 5W SMD
- Channels: 3 with 0-100% dimming
- Lens Angle: 107° central, 90° surrounding
- Waterproof Rating: IP65
- Display: OLED screen
- Control: Remote & touch, group control
- Warranty: 1 Year
Pros
- Customizable light schedules simulate natural environments.
- High-quality LEDs provide bright, efficient lighting.
- Easy installation and operation with remote and touch controls.
Cons
- Limited information on programming can be challenging.
Buying Guide For The Best LED Reef Lights
When selecting the best LED reef lights for your aquarium, it’s essential to consider various factors that impact the health of your corals and the overall vibrancy of your marine ecosystem. Here’s a detailed look at the critical aspects to guide your purchase:
1. Wattage
Why It Matters: Wattage is indicative of the light’s power consumption and output intensity. In the context of reef aquariums, the correct wattage is essential for providing enough light for photosynthesis without causing harm to the corals. Photosynthesis is vital for corals to produce energy and oxygen, contributing to their growth and coloration.
What to Look For: The general recommendation for LED reef lights is between 50 to 150 watts for every 24 inches of tank length. However, the specific wattage required can vary based on the types of corals in your aquarium. Soft corals may thrive with lower wattage, while hard, SPS corals often require higher intensity. Adjustable intensity settings can offer flexibility and control over light exposure.
2. Spread Area
Why It Matters: The spread area refers to how well the light distributes over the aquarium’s surface area. An even light spread is critical to eliminate shadows and dead spots, ensuring all parts of the tank receive adequate light. This uniformity is crucial for the health and even growth of corals throughout the tank.
What to Look For: Opt for LED lights with a wide-angle lens or multiple light sources that can cover the entire tank. The goal is to achieve a spread that reaches all corners of the aquarium, including the bottom and sides. For a standard-sized tank (about 24 inches in width), lights that can provide a spread area of 18-24 inches are ideal, ensuring that light penetrates to all depths and areas of the aquarium.
3. Spectrum Coverage
Why It Matters: Spectrum coverage is about the range of light wavelengths the LED emits. Corals require light in specific wavelengths for optimal photosynthesis and health. The right spectrum can mimic the natural light found in their ocean habitat, supporting various biological processes.
What to Look For: Look for LED lights offering a full spectrum of light, including blue, white, red, and UV wavelengths. Blue light is particularly important for coral growth and coloration, while white light best simulates sunlight at noon and provides an aesthetic appeal. The inclusion of UV light can promote vibrant fluorescence in certain corals. Ideally, the light should offer adjustable spectrum settings to cater to different coral types and growth stages.
4. Number of LED Lights
Why It Matters: The number of LED lights in a fixture affects both the intensity and uniformity of light distribution across your aquarium. A higher number of LEDs can offer more comprehensive coverage, ensuring that light reaches all areas of the tank, which is vital for the growth and health of corals and marine life. It also allows for a more customizable lighting setup, where you can adjust the intensity and color spectrum to mimic natural underwater conditions more closely.
What to Look For: Look for a reef light that offers a balanced number of LEDs, capable of providing a wide range of light intensities and spectrums. Consider fixtures with adjustable settings for each LED, allowing for precise control over your aquarium’s lighting environment. This is particularly important for larger tanks or those with diverse coral species requiring different light conditions.
5. Warranty
Why It Matters: A warranty is a key indicator of the manufacturer’s confidence in their product. LED reef lights are an investment, and a robust warranty can provide peace of mind, ensuring that your purchase is protected against defects and malfunctions. It also reflects the quality and durability of the product, as companies are more likely to offer extensive warranties on high-quality, reliable items.
What to Look For: Seek out LED reef lights that come with a comprehensive warranty covering a significant period. A longer warranty period, ideally of 1 year or more, suggests that the product is designed to last and perform reliably over time. Additionally, consider the warranty’s coverage details, such as what components are covered and the process for claims, to ensure it meets your expectations for support and service.
Conclusion
Choosing the right LED reef light requires considering several factors, including budget, tank size, coral needs, and desired features. Here’s a breakdown of three popular options:
Budget-Friendly Options
- WILLS LED Aquarium Light: Similar power to Phlizon with 3 dimming modes, potentially offering better customization. Explore reviews and comparisons for performance details.
Advanced Features
- VIPARSPECTRA LED Reef Light: Remote control, timer, and dual-channel dimming provide good control. Investigate its suitability for your tank depth and preferred level of customization.
Premium Choice
- Current USA LED Reef Light: Feature-rich option with adjustable spectrum, wave pump control, and 24-hour IR lighting, suited for larger tanks and serious reef keepers. Its higher price demands careful consideration against value and your specific requirements.
Remember, research and reviews are crucial before making a final decision. Happy reef keeping!
