10 Best LED Refugium Lights – 2024 Buyer’s Guide

There is a variety of lights available to aquarium hobbyists, and these (lights) often vary in their capabilities. While some just serve as a source of illumination, others do much more, and an example of such is the refugium light.

The refugium, being a place where macroalgae are grown for the purpose of filtration, requires a considerable amount of illumination similar to the planted aquarium lighting.

More so, some other plants can also be grown within the refugium. To this end, having a LED refugium light around it is essential for promoting the process of photosynthesis which, in turn, helps in ensuring that the macroalgal mass and/or plants [within the refugium] thrive(s). Moreover, with its installation, the growth of macroalgae continues to come from rain and sunshine.

In essence, a good refugium light provides illumination, advances photosynthesis, and indirectly aids the filtration process in the tank; all these activities/functions make for a hygienic and vibrant aquarium setup which is the pride of every aquarist.

However, while there are a host of refugium lights out there, it is of utmost importance to let you know that there are only a few that can be set apart among the best.

In view of the above, we have elected to share with you 10 of the best refugium lights in the market today, and we hope that you will find one that will satisfactorily meet your needs and budget as you read on.

LED Refugium Lights Review 2024

1. Innovative Marine ChaetoMax Refugium Light

We start off with this impressively made refugium light from the stable of Innovative Marine. This device will fit perfectly in any setup to give you an excellent result.

Specification and Features:

• Manufacturer: Innovative Marine
• Weight: .6 pounds
• Available in: 2 sizes

1. Prime among the features that make the Innovative Marine ChaetoMax refugium light valuable are the 45 high-power LEDs which include different bands of lights, across different spectra.
2. It is available in two different wattage capacities, 9 watts, and 18 watts – both being of varying dimensions; 17cm X 4.7cm X 0.9cm and 17 cm X 9.7cm X 0.9cm respectively.
3. It bears 420 nm blue lights, 470 nm violet light, 630nm magenta light, and 660nm red light. All these combined, make for an efficient refugium light that brings out a thriving macroalgal mass.
4. Additionally, mounts are included to ensure the ease of installation and help you position the device aright. It can be hung over the sump or attached to the side with the aid of Velcro strips.

Customers’ experience on the Innovative Marine ChaetoMax refugium light has been largely satisfactory as most of those that have used it [or are using it] have spoken glowingly about its brightness and how well it has been able to guarantee the healthy growth of macroalgae within their refugia.

PROS

• Good value for money
• Highly functional
• Light bands across varying spectra
• Sleek design
• Easy to install

 CON

• It is not waterproof

2. JBJ LED Refugium Light

The JBJ LED refugium light is a compact device specifically made for small tanks.

It is a top-quality light that does more than just illuminating the light and promoting the growth of macroalgae; it does aid in riding the tank of excess nitrates and phosphates to an appreciable extent.

This refugium light can be attached to the tank either with the aid of a magnet or suction cup.

Specifications and Features:

• Manufacturer: JBJ lighting
• Weight: .6 pounds

1. It can be used on both glass and acrylic tanks.
2. This JBJ LED refugium light features four 6500K white lights that utilize a relatively combined minimal (wattage) capacity of 4 watts.
3. Each of these (four) lights is capable of giving off 70 lumens; this speaks volumes of how efficient the light is, particularly as it relates to brightness.

Though simple in design, and does not carry lights across different spectra as some highly sophisticated refugium lights, the JBJ LED refugium light does tick the right boxes for its efficiency on the scorecard of many customers.

Some of these individuals have also taken out time to comment on the minimal heat it generates and the way it helps to ensure the stability of the water pH.

PROS

• Energy efficient
• Fits securely
• Versatile
• Top-quality

Durable

CONS

• Somewhat pricey
• Does not come with an on/off switch

3. Finnex FugeRay Refugium Light

Here is a delicately crafted refugium light with immense quality that is well reflected in its functionality and material component.

This refugium light features a clip that makes the device a perfect fit for rimless tanks; the clip is attached to its adjustable gooseneck.

It also has a water-resistant feature that is, to an extent, beneficial in guarding against splash. There are also mounting brackets included in the package.

Specifications and Features:

• Manufacturer: Finnex
• Weight: .96 pounds

1. It has a dimension of 25.4cm X 6.35cm X 24.13cm, and it is really energy efficient as it consumes alone 5 watts of power.
2. It has been constructed in such a manner that the light beam is well focused on the plants/macroalgae in the refugium.
3. The Finnex FugeRay refugium light possesses a hood made from a combination of aluminum and plastic to guarantee profound durability. The aluminum also aids in protecting the circuit and fosters better dissipation of heat.
4. It has lights across four different spectra, namely, 660nm red light, white light, and blue ‘moon’ light.
5. These light bands, which can spread to an angle of 120 degrees, help to set the tone for a successful photosynthetic process.

The majority of those that have had a firsthand experience using this Finnex FugeRay refugium light have attested to the fact it serves its primary purpose with great aplomb as they recounted how the macroalgae in their refugia picked up [growthwise] upon installing the device.

PROS

• Top-quality
• Uniquely designed
• Easy to install and maintain
• Produces little or no heat
• Durable

CON

•  Does not come with a dimmer

4. Kessil H160 Tuna Flora LED Refugium Light

Another refugium light from Kessil that we cannot afford to leave out of our list of ten. This one stands in a class of its own – one of the most advanced refugium lights, you will likely come across at the store.

This device features a knob that you can use to set the color temperature to a value or range that is suitable for the photosynthesis need of your refugium at a particular point in time.

Specifications and Features:

Manufacturer: Kessil
Weight: .9 pounds

1. It has a dimension of 10.9cm X 6.4cm, and the light it produces is capable of covering or reaching a distance of about 0.61m – which is quite impressive.
2. The Kessil H160 Tuna Flora LED refugium light has both red and blue lights that blend appreciably well to trigger the photosynthetic pathway, culminating in the emergence of blossoming macroalgal growth.
3. Additionally, FYI; the Kessil H160 Tuna refugium light consumes 40 watts of power.

You will hardly find any negative comment about the Kessil H160 Tuna Flora LED refugium light, and this only goes to show how much customers hold it in high esteem. Lest you get or read the message we are trying to pass wrongly; it is not just about the brand name, but the quality that this very refugium light exudes.

PROS

• Highly efficient
• Color temperature control knob
• Durable
• Great value for money
• Impressive coverage

CON

• None

5. NICREW Clipon Refugium LED Light

Looking for a highly effective led refugium light that won’t cause you to break the bank? We have one for you in this NICREW clip-on LED refugium light.

The device is equipped with an adjustable arm mount; this is influential in setting the position of lighting to your preference.

Specifications and Features:

• Manufacturer: NICREW
• Weight: .6 pounds

1. The device does not consume so much energy; it only utilizes 7 watts of power and is designed for nano refugia with a carrying capacity of between 9.5 – 19 liters.
2. Its hood is built to promote the dissipation of heat and the spread of light.
3. Dwelling more on its features; the NICREW clip-on LED refugium light has a total of eighteen (18) LEDs – 15 white ‘daylight’ LEDs and 3 blue ‘moonlight’ LEDs – that are highly beneficial for the growth of macroalgae and plants.
4. The plastic clamp provided in the package could be needful for installing the device unto a rimless refugium; it can be used on rimmed tanks, notwithstanding. Lastly, it also possesses an on/off control switch.

Going by the submissions of customers that have, at various times, purchased this NICREW clip-on LED refugium light, it does deliver a very good (light) output that eventually results in the considerable bloom of macroalgae. Some persons have also praised it for its flexibility.

PROS

• Impressive light output
• Sturdy
• Good coverage
• Energy efficient
• Adjustable arm
• Great value for money
• Easy to install

CONS

• The clamp needs to be upgraded

6. Osunby LED Refugium Light

The Osunby LED refugium light isn’t just another growth-promoting device for plants or macroalgae; it is a product made with pronounced detailed and technical know-how.

For its installation; it comes with a steel hanging kit which consists of four ropes and a hook.

To give an inkling into how durable this whole device could be; it is built to last for more than 50,000 hours, and its fixture is made of fortified thermoplastic polymer, Acrylonitrile Butadiene styrene (ABS).

Specifications and Features:

• Manufacturer: Osunby
• Weight: 4 pounds

1. It is a 45-watt refugium light with a dimension of 30.9 X 30.9 X 3.6 cm and will cover a space of 0.91 X 0.91 square meters.
2. The Osunby LED refugium light is a full spectrum variety, meaning that it would be of immeasurable benefits through the developmental stages of the plants/macroalgal mass in the refugium.
3. It has a massive combination of 225 LEDs; this entails 163 red LEDs with wavelength ranging from 630nm to 660nm; 58 LEDs of wavelength between 460 – 470nm; 2 infrared LEDs (730 – 735 nm) and 2 ultraviolet LEDs (390 – 395nm).

The penetrability of the light given off by this product could be said to be one of the reasons why it has been endeared to the hearts of many aquarists. They surmised that the Osunby LED refugium light does its job to a satisfactory end as reflected by the commensurate growth of macroalgae in their refugia.

PROS

• Produces very bright lighting
• Striking penetrability
• Inexpensive & great value for money
• Easy to install
• Longlasting

CONS

• Does not have an on/off switch

7. NICREW Submersible Nano LED Refugium Light

If you are looking out for a good nano refugium light that can be immersed into the refugium then, you have this NICREW LED refugium light.

This rod-like device is furnished with components that make it appreciably resistant to moisture.

Specification and Features:

• Manufacturer: NICREW
• Weight: .53 pounds

1. The NICREW submersible LED refugium features LEDs that give off strong brightness to the measure of 350 lumens; these include 28 daylight LEDs.
2. The device is a sturdy piece as it is built to withstand impact; to be more precise, it is made with Shatterproof quartz glass and further fortified with a tensile rubber cap to guard against collision. So, this ultimate aid in extending the lifespan of this refugium light.
3. It has a length of 35.1cm and should easily fit into a nano refugium. Its power consumption rate is 8 watts.
4. But that’s not all; it also comes with a USB adapter and an on/off control unit. Plus, suction cups are included to ensure the ease of its installation.

Most of the aquarists that have utilized the NICREW submersible LED refugium light appeared to have no regret whatsoever over their buy as the device keeps performing its job without flaws. And, that it is fully submersible yet gives it an edge, making customers to further score it high in their reviews.

PROS

• Top-quality
• Marked brightness
• Highly functional
• Great value for money
• On/Off switch

CON

• Does not have a control unit for adjusting light intensity

8. Luxbird Refugium Light

Next on our review is a very powerful one indeed; the Luxbird refugium light has full-spectrum LEDs, and its beam can reach a distance of 30.48 cm X 30.48cm. By this, it should be adequate for growing macroalgae/plants in a nano refugium.

Specifications and Features:

• Manufacturer: Luxbird

1. It provides good illumination and also fosters the flourishing growth of macroalgae. The device itself has a dimension of 9cm X 9cm X 10cm.
2. The Luxbird refugium light features 12 LEDs which, by virtue of being built with parabolic aluminized reflector 30 (PAR30) technology, are able to enhance heat dissipation. The LEDs consist of three blue LEDs and nine red LEDs, and these have a minimal power consumption rate of 12 watts.
3. Also included in the package is the E26 socket which is required for holding the refugium light in place. And, even more importantly, it has a strong waterproof capacity – it is rated IP65.

The quality that the Luxbird refugium light is topnotch, and this is simply down to the assertions of several customers that have used it. More so, people have often revered this device for its brightness and the coverage achievable with it.

PROS

• Highly functional
• Good coverage [for nano refugia]
• Long-lasting
• Waterproof
• Impressive design
• Reasonably priced

CON

• The light intensity cannot be regulated

9. NICREW Multicolors Refugium Light

Let’s take the love for NICREW’s products a notch higher as we look at the third refugium light from the forenamed manufacturer in this review.

Specification and Features:

Manufacturer: NICREW

1. This particular one is a 13-watt device with a sleek design fitting for refugia not more than 37.8 liters [as per carrying capacity] and measuring between 30.1 –45.7cm in length.
2. It produces a distinct blend of lighting that would eventually give rise to a lively refugium.
3. This refugium light from NICREW has 30 powerful LEDs, consisting of 24 white LEDs; 2 blue LEDs; 2 red LEDs, and 2 green LEDs. It features an aluminum shell which makes it fit into the refugium seamlessly.
4. There are also extendable/detachable mounting brackets [affixed to both ends of the shell]; this explains why the NICREW multicolors refugium light is suitable for use on tanks with varying lengths (30.1 – 45.7cm).

5. Still on its features; it also has a control (on/off) switch worked unto the power cord. And, just for the mention; this refugium is capable of giving light with an impressive brightness of 1000 lumens.

There is an aura of satisfaction and delight that pervades customers’ reviews on the NICREW multicolors refugium light, and the reasons are not far-fetched. For one, the brightness it produces is adjudged to be really pronounced, and its functionality cannot be questioned or undermined.

PROS

• Topnotch quality
• Outstandingly bright
• well-built
• On/off control switch
• Great value for money

CON

• None

10. ACKE LED Refugium Light

We shall be wrapping this review up with the ACKE LED refugium light – yet another massive one designed for nano refugia.

Its usability and functionality are quite impressive and without taint to be more factual.

Moreover, it features an adjustable bracket that makes it easy for you to direct the light beam wherever you may desire.

Specifications and Features:

• Manufacturer: ACKE

1. It has a dimension of 19.8 X 13.7 X 5.3cm and can cover a distance of about 0.31 X 0.31 square meters. It consumes 12 watts of power.
2. The ACKELED refugium light is augmented with a full-spectrum with red LEDs within the wavelength of 630 – 660nm; 460nm blue light, and 2700K white light. These light bands are essential for the development of plants right from the start to the blossoming stage.
3. The waterproof protection capacity of this refugium light is IP54.
4. Additionally, it is furnished with a heat sink – made from the top-quality aluminum cast – that guarantees excellent heat dissipation and also boosts the growth of the plant mass in the refugium by focusing the beam where it is needed.
5. The manufacturer claimed that the ACKE LED refugium light is capable of lasting for up to 50,000 hours [or more] if used under optimal conditions.

Customers have rated the ACKE LED refugium light high for different reasons. Key among these (reasons) is its effectiveness, as well as the reach that can be actualized by its beam. Moreover, they have not failed to talk about the high quality it portrays.

PROS

• Highly efficient
• Full-spectrum LEDs
• On/off switch
• Wellbuilt
• Produces little or no heat
• Sturdy
• Good coverage
• Cut-rate price

CONS

• Does not have a control unit for dimming or reducing light intensity.