Comparison: Best Grow Light For Microgreens (Updated | Jan 2nd)
Ever tried growing microgreens only to end up with sad, leggy sprouts? The right grow light can turn that around, delivering vibrant, nutrient-packed greens right on your countertop. But with so many options—LEDs vs. fluorescents, full spectrum vs. cool white—it’s easy to feel lost. We’ve tested the top contenders to help you find the perfect match for your space and budget. Let’s shine a light on which grow lights will have your microgreens thriving in no time!
- BEST FOR BEST COMPACT SEEDLING LIGHT: Barrina T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plants Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BEST HIGH-OUTPUT COVERAGE: Barrina Plant Grow Lights Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BEST ADJUSTABLE CLIP-ON: GooingTop LED Grow Light Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BEST VERSATILE TIMER STRIP: RWNTAO LED Plant Growing lamp Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BEST ULTRA-THIN PANEL: DOMMIA Panel Grow Light for Indoor Plants Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BEST DESKTOP GROW LIGHT: Aumtrly Grow Light Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BEST DUAL-MODE CONTROL: TONYFUL Grow Lights for Indoor Plants Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BEST SMART SPECTRUM CONTROL: Garpsen Grow Light Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BEST APP-INTEGRATED STRIP: VIVOSUN 2ft Grow Lights for Indoor Plants Full Spectrum Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Best Grow Light For Microgreens
Barrina T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, 5000K Full Spectrum, 1FT LED Growing Lamp, Plant Light Strip, for Seed Starting, Vegetables, Plug and Play, 4-Pack
- 5000K White Full Spectrum Light: Barrina T5 grow lights 1ft provide indoor plants with full-spectrum sunlight replacement. We provide the most reasonable grow light wave based on the ratio of the absorption of the plant
- Super Bright and High PPFD: Consuming only 20W with 96 LEDs totally, replace 120W general plant lights. Over 95% light energy can be absorbed by plants. This mini growing lamp 1ft is a great option for plants that in seedling, vegetative and flowering cycle
- Separately Controllable: Each t5 grow lights fixtures have on off switch on the surface of housing, controlling the lights separately or together according PPFD that plants need
- Easy Install: With included double-sided tapes, clips and cable ties, you could install the lights by yourself in minutes. Just plug in and light up, and you could link up to 16 lights in a series, saving your installation time. This T5 plant light is non-magnetic. Do not mount it on uncured plaster, dusty, greasy, or rough surfaces
- What You Get: 4 x Barrina T5 Grow Lights, 2 x Power Cords with ON/OFF Switch, 3 x Connecting Cords(39.37”), 4 x Small Connectors, 8 x Installation Clips, 12 x Double-sided Tapes, 12 x Cable Ties
Barrina Plant Grow Lights, 4FT 5000K Full Spectrum Daylight White, 252W(6 x 42W, 1400W Equivalent), T8 LED Grow Light Strips, Growing Lamp Fixture, Plant Lights for Indoor Plants, Greenhouse, 6-Pack
- Please note that we have a brand new upgrade.This product is compatible with Barrina GM Series Cords. If you need to connect new and old products, make sure to use the new male-female connector cables. The second generation is designed to be safer, preventing accidental electrical connections caused by human error
- 5000K White Full Spectrum LED Grow Lights: Barrina T8 grow lights 4ft provide indoor plants with full-spectrum sunlight replacement. It provides the most reasonable grow light wave based on the ratio of the absorption of the plants. Best for plants seeding, growth and bloom
- Super Bright and High PPFD:Consuming only 252W with 1152 LEDS totally, replace 1400w general grow light bulbs. Over 95% light energy can be absorbed by plants. 5000K white color temperature makes your eyes feel comfortable. It works extremely well for your plant grow tents, plant grow shelves, seedling cultivation, hydroponic rooms, greenhouses, etc
- V-shaped Reflector Design: The indoor grow lights efficiency can be increased by 17~20% with reflector, providing you with best light intensity. The shell of our LED plant growing light was made of 100% aluminum which provides the high-efficiency heat dissipation. Ensuring the longer service life of the led chips
- Easy Installation: With included tape, clips and cable ties, you could install the lights by yourself in minutes. Just plug in and light up, and you could link up to 6 grow light strips in a series
- What You Get: 6 x Barrina Indoor Plant Lights, 3 x Power Cords with ON/OFF switch, 5 x Connecting Cords(48”), 6 x Small Connectors, 24x Installation Clips, 12 x Tapes, 24 x cable ties
GooingTop LED Grow Light,6000K Full Spectrum Clip Plant Growing Lamp with White Red LEDs for Indoor Plants,5-Level Dimmable,Auto On Off Timing 4 8 12Hrs
The GooingTop LED Grow Light is a versatile lighting solution designed for indoor gardens, featuring a 6000K full spectrum with 10 red and 74 white LEDs. Mimicking natural sunlight, it offers a high color rendering index of 95, providing soft, flicker-free light ideal for both plants and reading.
The timer function allows for 4, 8, or 12-hour cycles, automating your plant care routine. Its flexible gooseneck and strong clamp make positioning easy, while the energy-efficient design consumes only 10 watts.
With a one-year warranty, this grow light is perfect for small house plants and microgreens.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Full spectrum light
- Flexible gooseneck design
- Energy-efficient operation
- Easy to install
- Timer function included
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited coverage area
- Short power cord
RWNTAO LED Plant Growing lamp, 3500K Full Spectrum Grow Light Strips for Indoor Plants with 3/9/12H Timer & 10 Dimmable Levels, Led Growth Light for Green House Hydroponics Succulent 13In 4Head
The RWNTAO LED Plant Growing Lamp offers a natural light experience with its 3500K full spectrum, promoting photosynthesis and healthy growth for various plants. Its auto on/off timer with 3, 9, or 12-hour settings simplifies maintenance, ensuring consistent lighting.
The aluminum shell ensures durability, while multiple installation options like screws, cable ties, and magnets make it adaptable to different spaces. With 10 dimmable brightness levels, you can customize light intensity for different growth stages.
This compact grow light is suitable for flowers, vegetables, fruits, and succulents, enhancing flowering, germination, and overall plant health.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Auto on/off timer
- 10 dimmable levels
- Multiple installation options
- Durable aluminum build
- Wide plant compatibility
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Lower light intensity
- Limited color spectrum
DOMMIA Panel Grow Light for Indoor Plants, 20W Ultra-Thin Full Spectrum LED Grow Light for Shelf & Cabinet, Dimmable with 6/12/16H Timer, Warm White, 1-Pack
The DOMMIA Panel Grow Light is an ultra-thin, 20W LED panel designed for indoor plants, particularly microgreens. Its full spectrum (380-780nm) mimics natural sunlight, promoting healthy growth.
With built-in timer options (6/12/16H) and adjustable brightness, it’s versatile for various setups. The aluminum panel ensures excellent heat dissipation, allowing the light to be placed close to plants without harm.
Lightweight (4.8 oz) and easy to install with adhesive pads, it fits perfectly under shelves or cabinets. Ideal for herbs, succulents, and small plants, this energy-efficient light is a reliable choice for compact indoor gardening.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Ultra-thin design
- Full spectrum light
- Easy to install
- Built-in timer
- Energy-efficient
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited coverage area
- No adjustable neck
Aumtrly Grow Light, Full Spectrum Desktop Plant Lights for Indoor Growing Seedling 2 Pack, Large Area Lighting LED Grow Lamp with Base, Height Adjustable 26 Inch Black with 6/12/16H Timer
The Aumtrly Grow Light is a versatile 2-pack full spectrum desktop light perfect for microgreens and seedlings. Adjustable height (7.8-26 inches) and angle make it adaptable for different plant sizes.
The rectangular design provides wide illumination for multiple plants. With 6/12/16H timer, 3 lighting modes, and 5 dimming levels, it’s customizable for various growth stages.
The stable 5-inch metal base saves desk space, while the PC cover and reinforced power interface ensure durability. Simulating sunlight with red, blue, warm, and white LEDs, it promotes photosynthesis, accelerating growth by up to 30% compared to natural light.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Height adjustable
- Wide illumination
- Multiple lighting modes
- Sturdy base
- Promotes fast growth
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Bulky power cord
- Limited color options
TONYFUL Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, 40W LEDs Plant Lights for Indoor Growing, 360 LEDs Full Spectrum Grow Lights for Seed Starting, Led Grow Light with 3/9/12H Timer,10 Dimmable Levels (4pcs)
The TONYFUL Grow Light is a professional-grade solution for indoor gardening, featuring 360 LEDs that emit a full spectrum similar to natural light. With wavelengths between 380nm-780nm, it ensures higher PAR output for uniform lighting, ideal for herbs, succulents, and orchids.
The aluminum alloy build offers excellent heat dissipation and a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours. Four lighting modes and 10 dimmable options provide precise control, while the 24-hour timer automates lighting cycles.
Easy to install with included tape and zip ties, it’s perfect for shelves, cabinets, or greenhouses.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Full spectrum light
- High PAR output
- Durable aluminum build
- Flexible lighting modes
- Easy timer setup
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Slightly heavy
- Pricey for some
Garpsen Grow Light, 6000K Full Spectrum Plant Lights for Indoor Growing with Auto Timer 6/12/16H, 5 Dimmable Levels & 3 Color Modes, 552 LEDs Grow Lamp Panel for Seed Starting, Veg and Bloom(4Panels)
The Garpsen Grow Light is designed for seedlings and all growth stages, featuring 552 LEDs across four panels. Its full spectrum (380nm-800nm) mimics natural light with three color modes: 6000K cool white, 3500K warm light, and 5000K full spectrum.
The pure aluminum alloy design ensures better heat dissipation and a wider light area. A smart controller offers five dimmable levels, auto on/off timers (6/12/16 hours), and spectrum switching.
Backed by 12 months of support, it’s a reliable choice for plant stands, walls, or cabinets.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Wide light coverage
- Smart controller included
- Energy-efficient LEDs
- Easy to install
- Great for seedlings
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited to 4 panels
- Shorter timer options
VIVOSUN 2ft Grow Lights for Indoor Plants Full Spectrum, LED Plant Lights 120W(8 X 15W), T5 Grow Light Strip for Seed Starting, Greenhouse, Hydroponics, SGS Compatible, Linkable, 5000K, 8-Pack
The VIVOSUN 2ft Grow Lights are a top choice for microgreens enthusiasts, offering a full spectrum 5000K light that mimics natural sunlight. With 120W of power (8 X 15W) and 60 LED diodes, these lights ensure efficient energy use while maximizing PAR output for robust seedling growth.
The durable aluminum shade directs light precisely, reducing waste. Installation is versatile, with options to hang, screw, or stick the lights, plus daisy-chain capability for larger setups.
While the remote control requires a separate hub, the lights deliver excellent performance for indoor growing, enhancing germination and yields.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Full spectrum light
- Energy efficient LEDs
- Easy to install
- Durable aluminum build
- Daisy-chain capable
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Hub sold separately
- Slightly bulky design
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What should I look for in a grow light for microgreens?
Look for a light with a full spectrum output, ideally between 4000K and 6500K, to mimic natural sunlight. Ensure it has adjustable intensity or height settings to accommodate the rapid growth of microgreens. Energy efficiency, such as LED technology, is also important for long-term use.
How do LED grow lights compare to fluorescent lights for microgreens?
LED lights are more energy-efficient and produce less heat than fluorescent lights, reducing the risk of overheating your microgreens. They also tend to have a longer lifespan, making them a better long-term investment. However, fluorescent lights can be a cheaper initial option for small-scale setups.
What is the ideal light intensity for growing microgreens?
Microgreens generally require a light intensity of 20-40 watts per square foot for healthy growth. Too little light can cause leggy, weak plants, while too much can scorch them. Adjustable LED panels allow you to fine-tune the intensity as your microgreens grow.
Are full-spectrum grow lights necessary for microgreens?
While microgreens can grow under partial spectrum lights, full-spectrum lights provide a more balanced range of wavelengths for optimal growth. They support both vegetative growth and flavor development. Full-spectrum lights are especially beneficial if you plan to grow other types of plants later.
How far should grow lights be placed from microgreens?
Place grow lights 4-6 inches above the microgreens when they first sprout to prevent stretching. As they grow, adjust the height to maintain this distance, ensuring even light distribution. LED lights typically run cooler, allowing them to be closer without burning the plants.
What are the best budget-friendly grow light options for microgreens?
Clip-on LED grow lights are an affordable and space-saving option for small setups. T5 fluorescent bulbs are another budget-friendly choice, though less efficient than LEDs. Look for lights with high PPFD (photosynthetic photon flux density) ratings to ensure good value for money.
How do timer features add value to grow lights for microgreens?
Timers automate the light cycle, ensuring microgreens receive 12-16 hours of light daily without manual intervention. This consistency promotes healthier, more predictable growth. Some lights come with built-in timers, saving you the cost of purchasing a separate outlet timer.
What are the advantages of using a full-spectrum LED panel over a single-color LED?
Full-spectrum LED panels provide a more natural light balance, promoting better growth and nutrient density in microgreens. Single-color LEDs, like red or blue, can be too narrow and may lead to weaker plants. Full-spectrum lights are also more versatile if you decide to grow other plants later.
How do I determine the size of grow light needed for my microgreen setup?
Measure the area of your growing tray and choose a light that covers it evenly, typically 1-2 watts per square inch. Larger setups may need multiple lights or a panel with wider coverage. Overlapping light slightly ensures no dark spots for uniform growth.
What makes a grow light a good value for money?
A good value grow light balances energy efficiency, lifespan, and performance. Look for lights with high PPFD and energy-saving features like dimming or programmable timers. Reviews mentioning durability and customer support can also indicate long-term value.