hygger 18W 24/7 LED
$38.99
The cheapest useful planted light: a full spectrum fixture with a built-in timer, 24/7 modes and extendable brackets. Fine for low-to-medium light plants on a small-to-mid tank, at a rock-bottom price.
Pros
- Timer built in, with sunrise-daylight-moonlight 24/7 modes that ramp up and a DIY mode
- Full spectrum with adjustable brightness — bright enough for low and medium light plants
- Extendable bracket and 7 colours; dimmable for algae control
- The lowest price here — a great first planted light
Cons
- Small (18 W) — sized for a nano to mid tank, not a big one
- Not water resistant, and the on-unit menu takes learning
Score breakdown
Specifications
| PAR | Low-medium |
|---|---|
| Spectrum | Full spectrum (7 colours) |
| Colour Temperature | Adjustable |
| Coverage | ~18-24 in (extendable) |
| Light Level | Low to medium |
| Depth Rating | Shallow tanks |
| PAR at Depth | Low |
| Controller | On-unit timer |
| Mounting | Extendable bracket |
| IP Rating | Not water resistant |
| Dimensions | 18 W, extendable |
Alternatives
$149.99 · 88 / 100A
The best planted light here: a full spectrum, app-controlled fixture with strong output that supports demanding plants, from low-light Anubias to carpets. Programmable, waterproof, and the standard the others are measured against.
$39.99 · 90 / 100A
The value pick nearly everyone starts with: a full spectrum LED with sunrise/sunset and excellent colour rendering (CRI 91), enough for low-to-medium light plants. No app — just a cheap, well-proven light.
$50.34 · 87 / 100A
The best light if you do not want an app: a full spectrum fixture with a genuine built-in timer, a 24/7 sunrise-to-moonlight cycle and a DIY mode — programmable from the unit itself, at a budget price.
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