Apex PMK vs. Apogee MQ-500?

[cpllongjk]

Situation:

So I am in the need of a PAR meter and was wanting your opinion/feedback on these two units. I have never used the Apex PMK before and have used older versions of the Apogee unit.

What I know:

I know the Apex PMK is designed to be left in the tank for constant PAR monitoring and adjustment but that is not what I need a PAR meter for.

I know you can use the Apex PMK for spot checks, if you choose, but it was designed to be left in the tank.

I know that the Apex PMK is 200 dollars less than the Apogee MQ-500.

Questions/Concerns

My questions/concerns is that the Apex PMK is not as good as the Apogee MQ-500.

Remember I only want it for spot checking, not for continued use!

 

[rhinonm]

Problem with an in-tank meter is that algae and dust will settle on the sensor. I understand the QM 500 is the latest and greatest when using LED. If you dont have LED use the 200. IMO when using LED a 500 is required to dial them in. Too many variables. With t5 you can look up a thread and guesstimate based on someone else's measures.