Which lights are better

[Pinballfish]

I am setting up a 50 gal reef tank that is 36 inches across. I am debating on power compact or HO T5. i havnt had any experience with T5 but everyone likes them. I need opinions on which is better.

 

[James77]

T5s are far better than PCs so long as you use individual reflectors and cooling.

 

[rtparty]

No doubt about the T5's being better. Just get yourself a good fixture and some good bulbs the first time around. Saves a lot of money and hassle.

 

[slm32123]

I would say go with LED's, they will save you a lot of money in the long run, and the bulbs last much longer, and it doesn't put out near as much heat on your tank

 

[James77]

I would say go with LED's, they will save you a lot of money in the long run, and the bulbs last much longer, and it doesn't put out near as much heat on your tank

The money saved in electric would take many years to pay for the difference in prices between even a top of the line T5 fixture and a high-end LED fixture. Actively cooled T5s impart very little heat to the tank, most is blown away. The lifespan on LEDs and their fixtures is kind of a gamble-