5 Best LED Grow Lights 2024

In 2024, more and more people are buying LED grow lights and cultivating plant indoors. This makes us wonder: Why is 2024 the ideal time for indoor cultivation?

It could be because plant growing guides are becoming more expert and everyone's growing methods have improved. However, let’s not forget that LED grow light technology is advancing yearly!

When selecting grow lights, it's important to note that while there are many review posts about the best LED grow lights, they may not cover how to choose the best LED grow lights.

The difference is that we will provide a simple guide for choosing the best LED grow lights, along with reviews of the 5 best LED grow lights in this article, to help you make the most informed decision. Let's check them out!

Main Content:

• How to Choose the Best LED Grow Lights
• 5 Top Rated LED Grow Lights 2024
• 1. Medicgrow LED Grow Lights (Best Yields)
• 2. MINI SUN-2 (Best Budget)
• 3. SPECTRUM-Y (Best for Commercial)
• 4. FOLD-1200 (Highest Efficacy)
• 5. Medicgrow Fold-800 (Best Cost-effective LEDs)
• Conclusion
• FAQs About Best LED Grow Lights

How to Choose the Best LED Grow Lights

Plants' needs for grow lights vary among plants, and nowadays grow light techniques have been updated. To choose the best LED grow lights in 2024, consider these 3 key factors:

Light Spectrum

To choose the best LED grow lights, always look for grow lights that provide a full light spectrum (similar to natural sunlight). This includes adequate blue light for the vegetative stage and sufficient red light for the plant's flowering stage. Different plants require different spectrums with red-to-blue light ratios.

Therefore, some smart LED grow lights like Medicgrow NEO-780 offer switchable light spectrums tailored for both the vegetative stage and the flowering stage, allowing you to customize the best red-to-blue light ratios for different plant growth stages.

Energy Efficiency

When it comes to the efficiency of LED grow lights, we often think of wattage and PAR. However, experienced growers prioritize PPF and PPFD over PAR.

PPF indicates how many photons the light source emits, while PPFD measures how many of those photons actually reach the plant's surface. PAR represents the quality of the photon and cannot be measured with ordinary tools; in fact, measurements with a PAR meter result in PPFD levels rather than PAR.

Why does PPFD matter?

One of the necessary conditions for producing plants is adequate PAR, but now plant biologists typically use photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) to quantify PAR. This is because the chemical reactions of plants' photosynthesis depend more on the number of photons(PPFD) than the energy of photons(PAR).

Therefore, PPFD is generally considered the most important parameter, as it directly measures the number of photons the plants receive in the growing area, which directly impacts the efficiency of photosynthesis and the plant's growth.

Higher PPFD generally means your plant receives more energy and grows better while saving electric bills. It’s worth noting that Medicgrow Fold-800 produces up to 2080 µmol/s of PPF and when the light height is 12 inches, its PPFD can reach an impressive 1200 μmol/m2/s.

What's more? The Medicgrow NEO-780 LED grow lights are even better! We tested the Medicgrow NEO-780 PPFD this morning (July 31, 2024) using an Apogee MQ 500 PAR meter, and you can see that its PPFD can reach 1323 μmol/m2/s at 14 inches (36cm). Even at 24 inches (61cm), it can still achieve a remarkable result of 1054 μmol/m2/s.

 Medicgrow NEO-780 PPFD

As you can see, the PPFD value of the Medicgrow NEO-780 is significantly higher than that of other LED grow lights. This high PPFD value facilitates faster and bountiful plant growth.

It's also important to note that if the LED grow light PPFD value exceeds 1000, it is necessary to add sufficient CO2 to enhance plant growth. We don't recommend purchasing an LED grow light with a PPFD value below 600, as it may lead to poor plant growth.

Coverage Area

The area covered by LED grow lights is one of the most important factors for growing plants. Proper coverage area ensures that light is evenly distributed across all plants, leading to higher yields.

Uneven light distribution can lead to some plants receiving too much light (causing light burn) while others receive too little (leading to weak growth).

Therefore, measuring the area of your indoor grow room and choosing the right size for growing lights, as well as determining the appropriate hanging heights, will ensure that the plants receive the light they need to thrive.

Now that we know how to choose the best LED grow lights. By combining your expert plant-growing skills with our hand-picked 5 best LED grow lights, we're confident that you can increase your yields by 15% to 20% this year!

This is the latest video from a customer using the Medicgrow Fold-800, you can see that with the help of the Medicgrow LED grow light, the flowers are very dense and full, and the yield is excellent.

5 Top Rated LED Grow Lights 2024

In recent years, with the advancement of LED technology, many LED grow lights have undergone significant updates. Philips Lighting experimented in greenhouses and found that the best light recipe was not the same for all plants.

Therefore, the author recommending the best LED grow lights should not only be a leader in LED grow light technology but also an expert in cultivation. The needed cultivation knowledge includes light intensity, light duration, daily light integral(DLI), light cycles, and spectrum for growing plants.

Fortunately, Medicgrow has been deeply involved in the LED grow light industry for a decade and has produced lots of high-quality content on plant cultivation. You can fully trust our review on the best LED grow lights!

After rigorous testing and careful comparison in July 2024, we've rounded up the 5 best LED grow lights. Let's take a look at these top-rated LED grow lights.

1. Medicgrow NEO Series (Best Yields)
2. MINI SUN-2 (Best Budget)
3. SPECTRUM-Y (Best for Commercial)
4. FOLD-1200 (Highest Efficacy)
5. Medicgrow Fold-800 (Best Cost-Effective LEDs)

1. Medicgrow LED Grow Lights (Best Yields)

Medicgrow Grow Light is no stranger to professional growers for providing the most cost-effective LED grow lights. It’s worth noting that Medic Grow continuously innovates LED grow lights and grow tent kits while focusing on improving the growing experience and maximizing yield for cultivators.

Their innovative Medic Grow Smart series offers the most intelligent and convenient growing lights control system, providing the optimal light cycles and intensity for plant growth.

Additionally, these LED grow lights have a very affordable price. If you’re looking for top-rated LED grow lights at the best prices, go to Medicgrow! Now, they've launched the brand-new NEO series. Come check out what's new and exciting.

Medicgrow NEO-780

• Price: $580
• Coverage Area: 4x4 ft (44.88"L x 43.31"W x 2.36"H), and is perfect for a 4x4 grow tent.
• Energy Efficiency (PPF&WATT): 2184 μmol/s, full power 780W, and is dimmable for your different growing stages.
• Light Spectrum: Full-spectrum LED grow lights. This LED grow light is switchable in 2 spectrums (Tailored for the vegetative stage and flowering stage spectrum)
• Average Yields: 21-30+ oz (Please remember that different light heights, light duration, seeds and nutrients can greatly affect your yield).
• Additional Highlights: The integrated Aura Control system allows simultaneous control of timers, dimmers, sunrise and sunset mode, spectrum switching, group control and WiFi Mesh.

Medicgrow NEO-780

There is a verified review about Medic Grow NEO-780 LED grow lights, said by grower Justin Erickson: “Best grow light hands down for price! I've never had control like this. Dealing with heat is a breeze and the digital display helps me keep my light parameters met. I would recommend this light. I can't wait until she gets used to her full potential!”

Medic Grow NEO-1000

• Price: $630
• Coverage Area: 4x6 ft (68.50" L x 43.31" W x 2.36" H). It would fit perfectly in a 5x5 grow tent.
• Energy Efficiency (PPF&WATT): 2700 μmol/s, full power 1000W, and is dimmable for your different growing stages.
• Light Spectrum: Full-spectrum LED grow lights. This light is switchable in 2 spectrums (Tailored for the vegetative stage and flowering stage spectrum).
• Average Yields: 20-32+ oz (Please remember that different light heights, light duration, seeds and nutrients can greatly affect your yield)
• Additional Highlights: The integrated Aura Control system allows simultaneous control of timers, dimmers, sunrise and sunset mode, spectrum switching, group control and WiFi Mesh.

Medic Grow NEO-1000

In another verified review, a grower Michael R. wrote this for Medic Grow NEO-1000 growing lights: “Great light! V1 and F1 spectrum allows for tunable control. Solid build design with LED screen to see exact wattage, spectrum, amps and a built-in timer! Really good value with all the bells and whistles. Doesn’t get much better than this!”

2. MINI SUN-2 (Best Budget)

The folks who R&D MINI SUN-2 are a dedicated bunch, and their LED grow lights are loved for their PAR levels and even light distribution. The MINI SUN 320W features Samsung LM301H diodes and ensures high PPFD across the entire canopy.

The only slight hiccup with these growing lights may be that it's not very smart. For instance, there's the Medicgrow NEO-780 LED grow lights which can adjust the light spectrum, intensity, and duration all in one screen, making it very convenient!

MINI SUN-2 150W - 500W

• Price: $169 - $399
• Coverage Area: 3x5 ft (15.87"x 32.68"x 2.68"). It would fit well in a 3x3 grow tent.
• Energy Efficiency (PPF&WATT): Up to 1400umol/S, customizable 150-500W, and can be dimmed depending on your plant growing stages.
• Light Spectrum: Full-spectrum LED lights
• Average Yields: 18-29+ oz (Please remember that different light heights, light duration, fertilizer and topping techniques can greatly affect your yield)
• Additional Highlights: Build-in dimmer and timer, Samsung diodes and compact design.

MINI SUN-2

“Used in my 2x2 tent. Great growth of plants from this light. Light made of good quality and doesn't get too hot. Being able to control the timer right on the light is a great quality-of-life upgrade.” said J.T. He included this picture in the review, and you can see that MINISUN can grow very abundant flowers.

3. SPECTRUM-Y (Best for Commercial)

Spectrum-Y is dedicated to improving commercial and indoor plant cultivation. These LED grow lights provide the ideal spectrum including UV and IR light to ensure plants thrive and grow healthily.

The Spectrum series also uses passive materials to prevent the light itself from overheating, which means your plants won't overheat and you'll save energy.

These grow lights are the ideal choice for commercial cultivation and vertical farming. They come with ETL and DLC certifications to ensure top-tier performance, and with support from their team, you even have the chance to receive bulk grow lights for free! Let’s take a look at the Spectrum-Y specifications to learn more.

Spectrum-Y 780-880W

• Price: $759.00
• Coverage Area: 5x5 ft (42.51''x44.88"x2.75"). It would fit well in a 5x5 grow tent.
• Energy Efficiency (PPF&WATT): 2376μmol/s, full power 880W, and can be dimmed by your plant's growing stage.
• Light Spectrum: Full-spectrum LED grow lights with UV and IR light bars.
• Average Yields: 22-32+ oz (Please remember that different light heights, light duration, fertilizer and LST tech can greatly affect your yield)
• Additional Highlights: ETL and DLC certified, Adjustable full spectrum with UV + IR light, Potentially 100% free for commercial growing

Spectrum-Y

“Purchased two of these along with a wireless controller. I went back and forth between the HLG scorpion and these lights for a while trying to figure out which to buy.... this thing is definitely capable of 1200-1500 par at 100% ( if running CO2).” wrote Nate for this amazing grow light.

Here’s a review video of the Spectrum-Y from a commercial grower, showcasing the lush and visually stunning flowers he has cultivated.

4. FOLD-1200 (Highest Efficacy)

FOLD-1200 is one of the highest-efficacy LED grow lights on the market. They are renowned for pioneering full-spectrum LED grow lights, which mimic natural sunlight for improved plant growth and yield. This makes them the highest-efficacy growing lights.

Equipped with advanced Osram diodes known for their quality and efficiency, it offers a unique, custom spectrum tailored to different growth stages. This innovation significantly boosts plant quality, appearance, potency, and aroma.

The only drawback is that it’s slightly more expensive than other LED grow light brands. Let’s take a closer look at the specifications to learn more.

FOLD-1200 1200 WATT

• Price: $589.99
• Coverage Area: 5x7 ft (68.50"L x 43.30"W x 2.04"H). It would fit well in a 5x5 grow tent.
• Energy Efficiency (PPF&WATT): 3600μmol/s, full power 1200W, and can be dimmed with a grow light controller.
• Light Spectrum: Full-spectrum LED grow lights and are available in 2 spectrums tailored for veg and boom stages.
• Average Yields: 32-45+ oz (Please remember that different light heights, light duration, seeds and fertilizer can greatly affect your yield)
• Additional Highlights: Passive-cooled Design, 12 Strategically Placed Light Bars, ETL and DLC certified, Have the chance to get these grow lights completely free for commercial growing

FOLD-1200

Ghostface wrote this review for these growing lights: “This grow light is amazing at 20% it still reads at 700 Par and that 3ft from the canopy. I turned it up to 30% and scorched my girls at 2ft from the canopy.”

5. Medicgrow Fold-800 (Best Cost-effective LEDs)

When it comes to the best budget grow lights, I have to mention MedicGrow again. Their Fold-800 features 8 lighting bars, 72 OSRAM red chips, and 3300 San'An white chips, providing a full spectrum tailored to each stage of plant growth. 

The best part? It's under $300! You'll never find a more cost-effective LED grow light in the 4x4 grow light series. Plus, its high-quality materials drive up production costs, ensuring you're getting great value. Just try it once and you’ll see what it can do.

Even at a distance of 12 inches from the Medicgrow Fold-800, I measured an impressive PPFD of 1249 μmol/m²/s. If you're still on the fence about which LED grow lights to buy, this is your best choice!

Medicgrow Fold-800

• Price: $279.99
• Coverage Area: 4x4 ft (44.88" x 43.30" x 2.04" IN)
• Energy Efficiency (PPF&WATT): 2080 μmol/s, full power 800W, and is dimmable only when buying with a grow light controller.
• Light Spectrum: Full-spectrum LED grow lights, specially designed for different growing stages.
• Average Yields: 20-30+ oz (Please remember that different light heights, light duration, seeds and fertilizer can greatly affect your yield)
• Additional Highlights: Passive-cooled Design, Foldable Design, and 24/7 Customer Service.

Medicgrow Fold-800

Verified review by grower Diego Borunda for the Medicgrow Fold-800 LED grow lights: “The best grow light that Inverso ever had, New customer for sure! My plants loved it, and they started getting bigger in the first week of use, it's an amazing light and worth every penny that I spend on it, the next light that I'm getting is from you guys 100% sure”

Here’s another verified review by grower Richard Barnett about the Medicgrow Fold-800 light for growing plants: “Great light at a great price. I bought the Fold 800 and am loving this light and so are my plants. I have since bought 2 of the Mini Sun 2 320 and they do an amazing job also. I tell everyone looking to buy a new light to check out Medic Grow. I'm a customer for life.”

Conclusion

You’ve just learned about the 5 best LED grow lights in 2024. By now, you probably have your own opinion too—expensive doesn't always mean the best. Companies like Medicgrow are doing great work helping growers like us to achieve higher yields.

By using the most cost-effective grow lights and the growing tips posted on Medicgrow, I'm sure we'll get the most out of plants. I hope you find your best grow lights for plants and start your new joyful growing journey!

Related Posts:

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Do Grow Lights Work?

What Type of Light Is Best for Growing Plants Indoors?

FAQs About Best LED Grow Lights

1. LED vs HID, Which is the Best Grow Light?

LED grow lights are the best grow lights because they are energy-efficient, have a long lifespan, and offer a full spectrum of light tailored to different growth stages. They also generate less heat, reducing the need for extensive cooling systems.

On the other hand, HID grow lights are known for their high intensity. They provide deep light penetration, but they consume more electricity, generate significant heat, and require frequent bulb replacements. For these reasons, HIDs are now overtaken by LED grow lights.

2. What Are the Best LED Grow Lights for Beginners?

The best LED grow lights for beginners are those easy to use and energy-efficient. Options like the Medicgrow Fold-800 and Medicgrow NEO-780 provide a full spectrum of light suitable for all growth stages and are beginner-friendly with simple setups, minimal heat output, and higher PPFD.

3. Will Any Grow Lights Work for Green Herb?

Not all grow lights are suitable for plant cultivation. The best grow lights include LED and HID lights, as they provide the necessary light intensity and spectrum for different growth stages.

Besides, LED grow lights are particularly favored for their energy efficiency, low heat output, and customizable spectrum, making them ideal growing lights for all stages of growth.