200W LED Hanging Grow Light for Indoor Plants, Full Spectrum, High PPFD, Dimmable with Timer & Daisy Chain, IP65 Waterproof, Ideal for Greenhouse, Grow Tent, Hydroponics

This is one serious grow light! Boasting 200W of power, there aren’t many around that can match that power rating, and do it for less than $50.00 (with the current 30% coupon applied). After putting the grow light to work in my grow room, I have to say that I’m delighted with the performance. Here’s a few bullets that capture some of my observations…✔︎ This UFO grow light has just two modifications that distinguish it from the typical industrial UFO fixture that you’d see in a large warehouse; first, horticultural LEDs, and second, a dimmer. Both appear to be of high quality. But let’s be honest…it’s still a UFO light.✔︎ The grow light has an extremely durable build, using materials like aluminum and polycarbonate where appropriate. The aluminum cooling fins on the top are very effective at keep the temperature of the shell warm, but not hot. Despite the high power, there’s no need for an active cooling system. The LEDs are sealed behind a polycarbonate lens, a feature that most certainly contributes to the waterproof IP65 rating.✔︎ The light is advertised as having premium Samsung LEDs. Although the listing does not identify the specific series, they have a “2835” dimension (2.8mm W x 3.5mm L) that’s consistent with Samsung LM281b.✔︎ The UFO design consolidates all 520 Samsung LEDs into a small ring, with a diameter of under 10-inches (actual LED ring is 8.75-inches, or 9.25-inches including the polycarbonate lens). Although this represents a high concentration of power, I found that the exit beam angle (120 degrees) is relatively wide, and spreads the light well beyond the central axis. For example, with the light at a height of 24-inches, the core PAR coverage is approximately 5 sq ft. More than enough for a 6-ft grow tent. I should mention that my definition of core PAR coverage sets the PPFD limit at 100 umol/m2/s. That’s rather conservative, and suggests that the grow light could accommodate even larger grow tents; however, with the understanding that the PPFD limit along the perimeter would be reduced.✔︎ One of the most important features of this grow light is the dimmer switch. When combined with height adjustments, the lights intensity at plant level can be fine-tuned. Assuming, of course, that the dimmer is linear throughout the working range. To verify, I measured the PPFD and power values at 10% intervals, starting at 10% through 100%, and found that the dimmer is indeed linear through the tested range, with an error of ~2%. So by dimming the light by 50%, the corresponding PPFD level (and power) is reduced by 50%. I’ve provided pics that show the plotted data, and representative measurements.✔︎ The LCD display controller is intuitive and easy to use. I say intuitive because it has to be, as there are no instructions. But it’s quite simple. There’s an “OK” or enter button, and 4 arrows (N, S, E, and W). Simply press the arrows to move the shaded text cursor. Once the cursor is over the variable to be changed, select with the “OK” button and increase or decrease the value using the arrows. Still, the manufacturer/seller would be well-advised to provide better instruction.✔︎ The listing provides a comprehensive usage guide that outlines recommended distances for selected applications, along with dimming, hours of operation, and expected PPFD values. As informative as the chart is, it should be interpreted with care. In fact, I feel it’s more of a reference starting point, to be adjusted according to the specific needs of the plants. In other words, it’s not to be taken literally.✔︎ The listing also provides PAR/PPFD maps at three different distances; 12-, 18-, and 24-inches. Unfortunately, the grid dimensions are not given. But even worse, there are some fundamental problems with the data that’s shown in the listing. Here’s why:✅ It’s well established that the relationship between PPFD and distance predicts PPFD is inversely proportional to the square of the distance. In other words, PPFD at 24-inches should be one-quarter the reading at 12-inches.❗️ Instead, the listing maps show PPFD INCREASING from 12- to 24-inches (flat out impossible), and by a factor of one-half, not one-quarter (again, impossible).This is not the first time that I’ve seen a grow light with suspect PAR/PPFD data. In the past, I’ve chalked it up to one of the many variables that can influence PPFD readings. However, in this case, the listing data is just flat out wrong. No matter, I used a calibrated quantum PAR meter to measure the peak PPFD readings from the grow light that I received. Those values are shown below, compared to the values in the listing.12-inchesLISTING…1613 umol/m2/sACTUAL…1642 umol/m2/s18-inchesLISTING…1039 umol/m2/sACTUAL…785 umol/m2/s24-inchesLISTING…835 umol/m2/sACTUAL…470 umol/m2/s✔︎ The listing advertises a lifetime warranty in the Product Information section, under User Guide. However, the product sheet that comes with the grow light cites a 5-year warranty. I’ll have to reach out to the seller for confirmation of the duration. But either way, the product appears to be backed by a strong warranty.❗️ A word of caution. This grow light may not be suitable for social gathering places, due to the size and high intensity of the light beam. On the other hand, if the intensity is dimmed, it actually makes for a very cool industrial look in the home.FINAL REMARKSOverall, this grow light is a fantastic value…for the right application. I have a dedicated grow room, so for me it’s great. I hope for you too…because it really is SPECIAL. I definitely recommend. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️__________________________________________________________ADDENDUM: UFO LIGHTS AS GROW LIGHTAs powerful and affordable as this grow light is, the UFO design is unique and it may not be the best choice for every grow light application. Here’s a few considerations…❗️ The light is very heavy, weighing in at 6 lb 5 oz, and just about 7 lb with the weight of the cord included. The only kind of light stand that will hold this much weight is a photography light stand, with a boom and balancing sand bag. However, these have large footprints are aren’t very practical for most rooms. Alternatively, the light can be suspended from a hook anchored to the ceiling. This latter option is probably the best because it doesn’t involve a footprint. However, once mounted to the ceiling, that’s where it will likely stay.❗️ The light is rather large and it has an industrial look. Some folks might not want this beast hanging in their kitchen or family room. I actually like the look and would have no problem putting it in a social gathering place. But that’s me. Of course, the best option is a dedicated grow room.❗️ The light is bright! At full intensity, the illumination will be disruptive, and possibly post a danger to the photoreceptors at the back of the eye. Fortunately, the light has a dimmer, so that might help. But the quality of light could still present a potential hazard in social gathering spaces. Once again, this problem disappears in a dedicated grow room.The fact is, UFO lights are usually found in commercial / industrial buildings, suspended upwards of 20ft or more, so that the powerful beam can spread out over a relatively large area by the time it reaches ground level. Still, the design does have unique attributes that could open the door to new horticultural applications. And this particular UFO grow light appears to be paving the way. Indeed, I believe this is one of the first if not THE first UFO grow light to hit the Amazon market. So if nothing else, it’s cutting edge. [...]