Best LED Lights (with PAR) for Planted Aquariums, from Small to Large

Updated: March 23, 2025 - By: - Categories: Planted aquarium

The advancement of LED technology in recent years has greatly simplified the process of cultivating aquatic plants in home aquariums. LED lights are typically easy to set up and install, boasting a long lifespan that can extend from 5 to 7 years, or even more. In this article, we explore key factors to consider when selecting an LED light for your planted aquarium and review some top-performing products. Read on for insights!

[PAR Comparison Table] Planted Aquarium LED Lights

Model Our rating PAR Ideal for Fixture sizes For tanks LEDs Modes Wattage
Chihiros C2 RGB with Bluetooth Controller editor's ratingChihiros C2 RGB with Bluetooth Controller #ad – most plant types 9.4″ clip light 8-18″ long, < 8 mm thick 40 RGB pcs ‘my Chihiros’ app for dimming & timing, multi colors 20 watts
Finnex FugeRay Planted+ cliplight editor's ratingFinnex FugeRay Planted+ cliplight #ad 35 @ 12-inch depth nano planted with medium light plants clip-on 2.5-5 gallons daylight, 660nm red and blue Day/night 5 watts
Finnex Planted+ 24/7 ALC editor's ratingFinnex Planted+ 24/7 ALC #ad 117 @ 14-inch depth (48-inch fixture) medium-high light plants 24 inches (available 12-48″) 20 gallons daylight, 660nm red, green, blue remote control, 24/7 light cycle, other manual modes watts
Hygger 24/7 aquarium light editor's ratingHygger 24/7 aquarium light #ad – fish-only, most plant types 48-54 inches (18-54″ available) 55 Gal 106 White + 43 Blue + 15 Red + 8 Green + 43 RGB 24/7 timer, on/off timer, multi colors 42 watts
Fluval Plant Spectrum Bluetooth LED 3.0 editor's ratingFluval Plant Spectrum Bluetooth LED 3.0 #ad tropical fish, most plants types 48-60 inches (available 24-60″) 48-60 inches 366 total Mobile app control, automatic light cycle, preset modes 59 watts
NICREW SkyLED Plus editor's ratingNICREW SkyLED Plus #ad 97 @ 12-inch depth (30-inch fixture) most plant types 30-36 inches (available 12-54″) 30-36 inches 80 White + 15 Blue + 10 Red Day/night 30 watts
Current USA 18 editor's ratingCurrent USA Satellite Plus PRO #ad 155 @ 12-inch depth medium-high light plants 48-60 inches (available 18-60″) 48-60 inches 40 white, 10 red, 19 RGB 24 hour timer control, multi modes 65 watts
Current USA Satellite Freshwater LED Plus editor's ratingCurrent USA Satellite Freshwater LED Plus #ad 35+ @ 12-inch depth (48-inch fixture) fish, low light plants 36-48 inches (available 18-72″) 50-55 gallons 72 white + 36 RGB custom colors, weather effects 25 watts
Finnex FugeRay Planted+ editor's ratingFinnex FugeRay Planted+ #ad 121 @ 14-inch depth (48-inch fixture) most demanding, red plants 48 inches (available 12-48″) up to 55 gal (160) 7000K + (88) 660nm red + (16) blue Day/moonlight 48 watts
Finnex Stingray 2 editor's ratingFinnex Stingray 2 #ad 76 @ 14-inch depth (48-inch fixture) fish, medium light plants 16 inches (available 12-48″) 5 gallons 32 x 7000K + 8 x actinic + 8 x 660nm red Day/night watts
BeamsWork EA Full Spectrum editor's ratingBeamsWork EA Full Spectrum #ad 36 @ 12-inch depth (24-inch fixture) fish, low light plants 30 inches (available 12-72″) 20 gallon long/29 gal 25 White 10000K, 11 RGB Day/night 36 x 0.5W = 18 watts total
BeamsWork DA FSPEC LED editor's ratingBeamsWork DA FSPEC LED #ad 96 @ 12-inch depth (24-inch fixture) medium-high light plants 72 inches (available 12-72″) (up to 100 gallons) 102 white 10000K, 80 RGB Day/night 182 x 0.5W = 91 watts total
Kessil A160WE Tuna Sun Controllable editor's ratingKessil A160WE Tuna Sun Controllable #ad designed for penetration deep and large planted tanks 24″ surface diameter coverage 1 unit per 24-inch length remote control for adjusting light colors and schedule 40 watts
Chihiros Vivid II RGB Aquarium LED Light editor's ratingChihiros Vivid II RGB Aquarium LED Light #ad 280 @ 20-inch depth high-light plants, deep planted, high hanging 18-inch hanging fixture 24-36″ 160 RGB LEDs app control, automatic mode with sunrise/sunset, manual mode 130 watts

The PAR values of BeamsWork lights are sourced from aquariumpardata.com, others from manufacturers. Most PAR values are measured in air; the actual value will be lower in aquarium water.

How Do I Choose an LED Light for My Planted Aquarium?

planted-aquarium-light

Several factors come into play when selecting high-quality LED lights for your planted aquarium. The most critical considerations are the color temperature (Kelvin rating) and PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) measurements of the products.

The Kelvin rating helps ensure you choose a light with the appropriate white light for aquarium plants, while PAR measurements confirm the light delivers sufficient intensity for plant growth. Additionally, the types of plants in your aquarium and the tank’s size are vital factors to consider.

Kelvin Rating – Choosing the Right Type

color-temperature

Color temperature (wikipedia.org)

The first aspect to evaluate is the product’s color temperature, measured by its Kelvin rating. Aquarium plants thrive across a wide range of color temperatures, but a rating between 5,500K and 7,500K is most ideal, as it replicates natural daylight effectively.

PAR – Ensuring Sufficient Quantity

LED light manufacturers typically provide PAR measurements for products designed for photosynthetic organisms like plants and corals. PAR quantifies the radiation available for photosynthesis and plant growth.

To grasp what PAR entails, consider the following image, which illustrates the PAR measurements of a Marineland LED light at various positions beneath it.

Marineland planted LED light PARMarineland planted LED light PAR #ad

Higher PAR values generally enhance plant growth, though different plants require varying PAR levels. Positioning plants at appropriate distances from the light source based on their needs is recommended.

How Much Light (PAR) Do You Need?

Since aquarium plants have diverse light requirements, identify whether your plants are low-light, medium-light, or high-light varieties. The following guidelines outline lighting needs for aquatic plants:

How Many Watts Per Gallon for Planted Tanks?

If PAR data is unavailable for a light you’re considering, our “watts per gallon” guide offers a relative estimate for planted tanks, though it’s less precise than PAR.

Based on the PAR of various LED lights for planted tanks, we suggest the following:

Plant type PAR @ 12-inch depth Watt/GAL
Low-light plants 15-30 0.4-0.5
Medium-light plants 35-65 0.5-0.7
High-light plants 65-120 0.7-1.1

This table applies to LED lights only. For older fluorescent lights, you’ll need nearly triple the wattage: 1W/GAL for low, 2W/GAL for medium, and 3W/GAL for high-light plants.

Best LED Lights for Planted Aquariums Reviewed

Chihiros C2 RGB with Bluetooth Mobile App Control

For nano planted tanks, the Chihiros C2 LED light is a strong contender. Designed for tanks up to 18 inches long, it features 40 RGB LEDs that enhance plant vibrancy and highlight fish and shrimp.

With Bluetooth connectivity, it’s controllable via the My Chihiros app, allowing individual adjustments to red, green, and blue channels, as well as sunrise and sunset effects. Brightness is adjustable from 10% to 100%, tailoring light to your plants’ needs.

Adjustable angle and heightAdjustable angle and height #ad

Its adjustable mounting bracket and 360-degree swivel arm offer flexibility, ensuring optimal light distribution within the tank.

Finnex FugeRay Planted+ Clip Light

This compact clip-on aquarium light is engineered for nano planted tanks requiring low to medium light. It’s an excellent choice for small aquariums under 10 gallons.

Offering daylight and nightlight modes, it includes deep red 660nm LEDs ideal for photosynthesis in medium-light plants. Its durable aluminum circuit boards and plastic cover ensure longevity, with the aluminum aiding cooling and the plastic shielding against moisture.

Setup is simple—slide the gooseneck onto the tank wall and secure it with the included nylon screw. The flexible gooseneck ensures even light distribution.

Explore more clip-on options here: https://portlandaquarium.net/clip-on-led-light/

Finnex Planted+ 24/7 ALC – Automatic Timer Control

The Finnex Planted+ 24/7 ALC stands out with its hands-free 24/7 lighting mode, designed to mimic a natural day/night cycle for optimal plant growth.

24/7 feature24/7 feature #ad

This mode, activated via a dynamic remote, allows customization of color and intensity. Four weather modes are also available, and a built-in sensor with two color indicator LEDs simplifies setting adjustments.

Remote controlRemote control #ad

Popular for its control and scheduling capabilities, its high PAR output makes it versatile for various aquarium plants.

Hygger 24/7 LED Aquarium Light with Inline Timer

This light offers an automatic on/off timer, a 24/7 cycle, and multiple color options, with customizable settings for user preference.

Inline controllerInline controller #ad

For simple automation, set the timer to 6, 10, or 12 hours, and it will repeat daily. Beyond white light, choose from seven colors—white, red, blue, green, purple, orange, cyan—with adjustable brightness. An all-color cycle mode is also available, though its brightness is fixed.

24/7 light cycle24/7 light cycle #ad

The 24/7 cycle starts with an orange gradient (6-8 AM), shifts to white (8 AM-6 PM), transitions to blue (6-10:50 PM), and then turns off, mimicking natural light patterns.

Fluval Plant Spectrum Bluetooth LED 3.0

The Fluval Plant Spectrum Bluetooth LED 3.0 is highly rated, featuring a companion app for mobile control, distinguishing it from remote-based alternatives.

Programmable 24-hour automatic light cycleProgrammable 24-hour automatic light cycle #ad

The app offers a 24-hour cycle with sunrise, sunset, midday, and night settings, adjustable in time and color via five channels. Three preset habitat configurations—Lake Malawi, tropical river, and planted—are included.

Five color channels and six unique band wavesFive color channels and six unique band waves #ad

With six band waves, a 6,500K rating, and approximately 4,250 lumens, it suits most plant types despite lacking manufacturer PAR data.

NICREW SkyLED Plus – Budget Option

The NICREW SkyLED Plus offers excellent value, illuminating aquatic environments effectively for freshwater and medium-to-high-light plants.

Its full-spectrum flexibility spans 6,000K to 12,000K, with 8,000-9,000K recommended for planted tanks. A wired switch adjusts day and moonlight settings independently, offering numerous color modes.

With a PAR of 97 at 12-inch depth (30-inch fixture), it adapts to various plant needs. Adjustable docking legs simplify installation.

Current USA Satellite Plus Pro with Timer

The Current USA Satellite Plus Pro delivers advanced features for planted aquascapes, with a PAR of over 155 at 12 inches, supporting even demanding plants.

High PAR outputHigh PAR output #ad

It provides ample light, vivid colors, and extensive control options. Dynamic modes like moonlight, cloudy, and stormy, plus a 24-hour cycle, enhance plant growth.

Remote controlRemote control #ad

TimerTimer #ad

Its aluminum shell prevents overheating, and extendable brackets fit space-constrained tanks with an ultra-thin design.

Current USA Satellite Freshwater LED Plus

The Current USA Satellite Freshwater LED Plus offers diverse light settings and realistic effects, simulating natural aquatic conditions.

With cloud cover, storm, lunar, and dusk modes, it creates a captivating display. Its 6,500K spectrum and PAR of 35+ at 12 inches suit low-light plants, though it may not support more demanding flora.

Easy to install, it lacks a built-in 24-hour timer but pairs well with external socket timers.

Finnex Stingray 2 Aquarium LED Light for Plant Growth

The Finnex Stingray 2, with a PAR of 76 at 14 inches, suits medium-to-high-light plants in small to medium tanks.

Upgraded from its predecessor, it features a slim profile, aluminum cover for heat dissipation, adjustable brackets, a splash guard, and moisture-resistant LED coating. Its 120-degree beam angle ensures broad coverage.

A 3-way switch toggles all lights, off, or blue-only moonlight mode, enhancing plant growth and tank aesthetics.

Finnex FugeRay Planted+ with Moonlight

For light-intensive plants and vivid colors, the Finnex FugeRay Planted+ excels. Its 264 LEDs (160 7000K, 88 660nm red, 16 blue) and PAR of 121 at 14 inches support high-maintenance setups.

The slim design with aluminum cooling and a 120-degree beam angle ensures thorough illumination. A switch toggles daylight and moonlight modes. With 40,000 hours of LED life and easy mounting, it’s a robust choice, though CO2 may be needed to manage algae.

BeamsWork EA Full Spectrum

The BeamsWork EA FSPEC offers solid performance for budget-conscious aquarists. Its 36 LEDs (1700 lumens) support low-light plants and enhance colors, especially for cichlids.

With day and night modes, it pairs with a separate timer module. The aluminum shell aids heat dissipation, and extendable brackets ease installation. Its PAR of 36 at 12 inches suits beginners with hardy plants.

BeamsWork DA 6500K LED Light

For larger tanks up to 100 gallons, the BeamsWork DA FSPEC delivers higher PAR for medium-to-high-light plants, offering vibrant colors and shimmer.

Its full-spectrum LEDs support plant growth and enhance tank aesthetics. The aluminum cover manages heat, and extendable brackets fit most setups with a slim profile.

More 72-inch options: https://portlandaquarium.net/72-inch-led-light/

Kessil A160WE Tuna Sun Planted Tank LED Light Combo

For deep or large planted tanks, the Kessil A160WE Tuna Sun offers superior penetration and vibrant colors. Its 40 watts and tubular aluminum design with fans ensure effective heat management.

A compatible controller provides preset modes and an automatic cycle, with dual ports for multi-unit control. Two rear knobs adjust intensity and color (6,000K-9,000K), ideal for tropical tanks at 6,000-7,000K.

kessil-tuna-blue

Included gooseneck simplifies hanging, delivering low-maintenance, high-performance lighting.

Chihiros Vivid II RGB Aquarium LED Light

For high-demand plants, the Chihiros Vivid II, with 160 RGB LEDs and a PAR of 280 at 20 inches, simulates natural light effectively.

Chihiros Vivid II RGB specificationsChihiros Vivid II RGB specifications #ad

The My Chihiros app adjusts red, green, and blue channels, sunrise/sunset times, and intensity beyond 100% for one color by reducing others. This hanging light requires a stand (e.g., Chihiros Alloy Stand) and suits tanks up to 50 gallons; use multiple units for larger setups.

What Is the Best Lighting Schedule for Planted Tanks?

Fish and plants need darkness to mimic natural cycles. If your light lacks a 24/7 feature, replicate nature’s schedule.

Nicrew 24/7 lighting scheduleNicrew 24/7 lighting schedule #ad

Start with dim white light in the morning, peak at noon, reduce in the afternoon, shift to blue moonlight at night, and turn off by midnight.

Without automatic controls, keep white light on for 8-10 hours daily (e.g., 9 AM-5 PM, 7 AM-5 PM, or 8 AM-6 PM). Post-6 PM, turn off or use blue LEDs until midnight for a soothing effect without overexposure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Happens to Planted Tanks Without Light?

Without light, plants seek alternatives to survive, though needs vary. Low-light plants may manage with diffused sunlight, while high-light varieties require supplemental lighting.

Why Use a Light Timer?

BN-LINK 7 Day Heavy Duty Digital Programmable TimerBN-LINK 7 Day Heavy Duty Digital Programmable Timer #ad

BN-LINK Compact Outdoor Mechanical TimerBN-LINK Compact Outdoor Mechanical Timer #ad

Timers automate light schedules, ideal for forgetful users or extended absences. Most LED lights are compatible with digital or mechanical socket timers.

What Happens with Too Much Light and Not Enough CO2?

More light increases CO2 demand. Insufficient CO2 can lead to algae outbreaks, while excessive CO2 without adequate light hampers photosynthesis, potentially harming fish and invertebrates.

Learn more about CO2 systems: https://portlandaquarium.net/co2-regulator/

Where to Buy Planted Aquarium Lighting?

Online platforms like Amazon offer a wide selection, simplifying product comparison and choice.

Conclusion

LED lights are crucial for the health and aesthetics of planted aquariums, enhancing both plant vitality and visual appeal. Selecting the right option requires some knowledge, and we hope this guide aids your decision-making. Enjoy your aquarium journey!

Lucas is the passionate creator behind this website, dedicated to guiding aquarium enthusiasts in nurturing vibrant fish and building thriving tanks. With over 10 years of hands-on fishkeeping experience, Lucas combines practical expertise with a keen eye for the best aquarium equipment to help hobbyists of all levels succeed. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned aquarist, their goal is to inspire and equip you with the knowledge and tools for a rewarding aquatic journey.

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