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Best Par Meter For Led Grow Lights (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for the perfect way to take your indoor garden to the next level, then a par meter for LED grow lights is a must-have. This device will help you to measure the intensity of light that reaches your plants, ensuring that they get exactly what they need for optimal growth and health. However, with so many options on the market, it can be tough to know which par meter is right for you. In this article, we’ll explore some of the key factors to consider before making your purchase.

Firstly, it’s important to think about the size and shape of your growing space. Do you have a small indoor garden or a larger commercial operation? This will determine the type of par meter that you need, as some devices are better suited to larger spaces. Additionally, it’s worth considering your budget and how often you plan to use the device. Some models are more expensive but offer greater accuracy and precision, while others are more affordable and ideal for occasional use.

So, how do you know which par meter is the best fit for your needs? Here are a few questions to ask yourself: Are you looking for a wireless option or are you comfortable with a wired connection? What kind of accuracy and resolution do you need? Do you need a par meter that can measure both PAR and PPF? Once you have a clear understanding of your needs and priorities, you’ll be on your way to finding the perfect par meter for your LED grow lights.

10 Best Par Meter For Led Grow Lights

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
It is ideal for measuring the light intensity and spectrum to monitor plant growth in greenhouses and under LED grow lights.
2
This product is ideal for accurately measuring lighting levels for plant growth, including LED and other light sources.
3
Ideal for measuring light intensity in indoor or outdoor growing environments to optimize plant growth.
4
The product is ideal for measuring the light intensity and suitability for indoor plant growth.
5
Measures plant growth intensity for LED grow lights with a full spectrum between 350-800nm.
6
The product is ideal for measuring light intensity and calculating daily light integral for indoor or greenhouse plant growth.
7
Ideal for measuring photosynthetic light and DLI for plant growth under various light sources with scientific accuracy.
8
The product is ideal for measuring light and ensuring optimal growth of indoor plants using LED grow lights.
9
The product is ideal for measuring photosynthetically active radiation for indoor and outdoor plants under LED grow lights.
10
The product is suitable for measuring the level of illumination in various settings such as LED plant grow lights.
It is ideal for measuring the light intensity and spectrum to monitor plant growth in greenhouses and under LED grow lights.
This product is ideal for accurately measuring lighting levels for plant growth, including LED and other light sources.
Ideal for measuring light intensity in indoor or outdoor growing environments to optimize plant growth.
The product is ideal for measuring the light intensity and suitability for indoor plant growth.
Measures plant growth intensity for LED grow lights with a full spectrum between 350-800nm.
The product is ideal for measuring light intensity and calculating daily light integral for indoor or greenhouse plant growth.
Ideal for measuring photosynthetic light and DLI for plant growth under various light sources with scientific accuracy.
The product is ideal for measuring light and ensuring optimal growth of indoor plants using LED grow lights.
The product is ideal for measuring photosynthetically active radiation for indoor and outdoor plants under LED grow lights.
The product is suitable for measuring the level of illumination in various settings such as LED plant grow lights.

1. Full-Spectrum Par Meter Bundle For Plant Monitoring

The MQ-500 full-spectrum quantum meter is a premium tool designed by world-renowned crop physiologist, Bruce Bugbee, PhD, and is the top choice for leading scientists and serious growers. This package includes an AM-310 telescopic sensor wand that extends up to 33 inches for measuring hard-to-reach places, and a neoprene carrying case. Measuring PAR is critical in the precision growing of plants and other photosynthetic organisms in greenhouses, growth chambers, farms, gardens, aquariums, and additional agricultural systems.

Unlike cheaper LUX or footcandle sensors, which are marketed as grow light meters but are meant for human vision, our meters feature a laboratory-grade PPFD (photosynthetic photon flux density), or “quantum,” optical detector that is precisely calibrated to measure the light intensity in µmol m-2 s-1 of the specific color wavelengths emitted by LEDs, HPS, MH, sunlight, and other light sources utilized by plants for photosynthesis. This quality quantum meter is extremely accurate and stable, precisely measuring and combining the intensity of all photons between 400 and 700 nm to give a single PAR reading in µmol m-2 s-1 within 5% uncertainty. Our meter has a stable, accurate calibration with an accuracy drift rate of less than 2% per year, unlike hobby-grade PAR meters.

The quantum sensor head of this meter is machined aluminum and potted solid with epoxy for years of use in harsh environments, including underwater. The handheld meter is attached by a cable and displays real-time readings, records samples, and logs average intensity and daily light integral (DLI) measurements. However, the handheld meter is not waterproof, unlike the sensor head. This rugged and easy-to-use meter is precisely what serious growers and scientists need to accurately measure the photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) from all light sources.

Pros

  • Designed by a world-renowned crop physiologist, Bruce Bugbee, PhD, this meter is the premium tool of choice for leading scientists and serious growers.
  • The quality quantum meter is extremely accurate and stable, precisely measuring and combining the intensity of all photons between 400 and 700 nm to give a single PAR reading in µmol m-2 s-1 within 5% uncertainty.
  • The meter has a stable, accurate calibration with an accuracy drift rate of less than 2% per year, unlike hobby-grade PAR meters.
  • The sensor head is machined aluminum and potted solid with epoxy for years of use in harsh environments, including underwater.
  • The handheld meter displays real-time readings, records samples, and logs average intensity and daily light integral (DLI) measurements.

Cons

  • – The handheld meter is not waterproof, unlike the sensor head.

2. Full Spectrum Par Meter: Accurate Led Lighting

The 3-foot long 3-piece heavy-duty steel extension wand is a must-have for anyone looking to accurately measure light in their indoor garden. This extension wand comes with a soft carry case for easy storage and transport. It features three different modes to suit various needs. The DLI mode calculates the average light over 24 hours, while the scan mode averages PAR over any area scanned. The spot mode takes instant PPFD readings for precise measurements. Additionally, the built-in stand, stake, and magnetized screw hold the meter to metal, making it easy to use in any indoor garden setup.

Pros

  • Heavy-duty steel construction for long-lasting use
  • Three different modes for versatile use
  • Built-in stand, stake, and magnetized screw for easy mounting
  • Soft carry case included for convenient storage and transport

3. Photobio Lgbqm2 Advanced Quantum Sensor Par Meter (Micromoles), Measure Light Intensity

The Phantom PHOTOBIO Advanced Quantum PAR Meter is a must-have device for any horticultural application, providing accurate and cost-effective measurement for any light source. Designed to measure PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) flux in wavelengths ranging from 400 to 700nm, this advanced meter maximizes crop yields by establishing a positive proportional relationship between the number of photons absorbed in the 400 to 700nm band and the rate of photosynthesis.

This compact and complete device comes with a main unit, remote sensor, two connection cables (short-coiled & 12’ long-straight), AAA batteries, and a protective carrying case. It is compatible with modern sole-source and supplemental LED fixtures, high-pressure sodium (HPS) DE grow lights, as well as any traditional indoor grow light source.

Phantom has a track record of robust reliability and performance in horticultural equipment, making it a reliable option for growers. The device is simple and easy to operate, handheld, with the ability to record up to 99 readings. It also stores up to 99 measurements for easy reference while adjusting light fixture height, dimmer setting, and other environmental changes throughout each phase of growth.

Pros

  • Accurate and cost-effective measurement for any light source
  • Designed to measure PAR flux in wavelengths ranging from 400 to 700nm
  • Maximizes crop yields by establishing a positive proportional relationship between the number of photons absorbed in the 400 to 700nm band and the rate of photosynthesis
  • Compact and complete device with a protective carrying case
  • Compatible with modern sole-source and supplemental LED fixtures, high-pressure sodium (HPS) DE grow lights, as well as any traditional indoor grow light source
  • Simple and easy to operate, handheld, with the ability to record up to 99 readings
  • Stores up to 99 measurements for easy reference while adjusting light fixture height, dimmer setting, and other environmental changes throughout each phase of growth
  • Phantom has a track record of robust reliability and performance in horticultural equipment

4. Quantum Par Meter: The Ultimate Plant Companion.

The Quantum Par Meter is a highly accurate, portable handheld device that measures PAR flux within the wavelengths ranging from 400 to 700 nm. It features an integrated Quantum Sensor that measures up to 10,000 μmol/s, which is much higher than other meters available in the market that measure only up to 2000 μmol/s. This device is suitable for indoor growing plants and helps to determine the light requirements and testing for your plants at half the cost.

The device has a data logging capability using a standard mini-USB cable and proprietary data logging software, making it easy to track and analyze the data. It has a constant linear response curve, which yields higher accuracy independent of wavelength, making it perfect for measuring LED light output. The device has low power consumption and has built-in low battery power indication.

The Quantum Par Meter is rechargeable and comes with a 1-year warranty. The device is patented in the US and has a free return/exchange/refund policy if there are any concerns. It is recommended to charge the device for 1-2 hours before use if there is no power.

Pros

  • Highly accurate measurement of PAR flux within the wavelength range of 400 to 700 nm
  • Measures up to 10,000 μmol/s, which is much higher than other meters available in the market
  • Suitable for indoor growing plants and helps determine the light requirements and testing at half the cost
  • Data logging capability using a standard mini-USB cable and proprietary data logging software
  • Constant linear response curve yields higher accuracy independent of wavelength, perfect for measuring LED light output
  • Low power consumption and built-in low battery power indication
  • Rechargeable and comes with a 1-year warranty
  • Patented in the US
  • Free return/exchange/refund policy if there are any concerns

5. Hopoocolor Grow Light Quantum Meter

The LED Grow Lights Full Spectrum Tester now comes with a 2-year warranty, giving you peace of mind knowing that any defects or issues will be covered. This handheld and portable device features a 5-inch LCD screen that displays data directly, making it lightweight and convenient to use. With the auto-zeroing capabilities, you can always expect pinpoint accuracy readings, and the integration time of 50us-10s makes it incredibly fast. The long focal length optical system and high-performance linear CCD sensor with 3648 points provide a 2nm optical resolution of light measurement, ensuring precise measurements of LED, tungsten, natural light, and sunlight with a wavelength range of 350 to 800 nm. The PAR Meter PPFD is always available for your daily endeavors, providing you with the information you need to succeed. Additionally, this spectrometer is portable and comes with PC software that allows you to test synchronously and output your results in Excel, PDF, screenshots, and more.

Investing in the LED Grow Lights Full Spectrum Tester is a smart choice for any grower, thanks to its high-quality features and convenient design. With its precise measurement capabilities, you can always trust the results you get, and the included software makes it easy to analyze and share your data.

Get ready to take your growing game to the next level with this powerful and reliable tool.

Pros

  • Comes with 2-year warranty
  • 5-inch LCD screen displays data directly
  • Lightweight and convenient
  • Auto-zeroing capabilities for pinpoint accuracy
  • Fast integration time of 50us-10s
  • Long focal length optical system with 2nm optical resolution
  • High-performance linear CCD sensor with 3648 points
  • Wavelength range of 350 to 800 nm
  • PAR Meter PPFD provides valuable information for daily endeavors
  • Portable and comes with PC software for synchronous testing and outputting results

6. Light Meter Par Meter Up To 400,000lx And 6000umol/(㎡s) Dli Calculator Lux Meter Ppfd Tester

The FH-100 is a specialized meter designed to measure accurate LUX or PPFD values based on different spectra of LED | CMH, HPS and SUNLIGHT. With its specific design, it ensures that human eyes and plants have the correct perception of these light sources. When testing PPFD in a closed tent, the FH-100 provides the most accurate value by closing the tent completely, unlike other meters that require opening one side of the tent causing light leakage and inaccurate readings.

This meter saves manpower as only one person is needed to test the illuminance of the light source at different distances or different powers. While testing, there is no need to hold the light meter, preventing light blockage by the user's body. Additionally, the FH-100 can test illuminance values in small spaces or areas that are inaccessible to humans.

This meter is essential for growers who require accurate LUX or PPFD readings to ensure the best possible yield. The FH-100 offers ease and convenience in testing, and its lightweight design makes it easy to carry and store.

Pros

  • Provides accurate LUX or PPFD values based on different spectra of LED | CMH, HPS and SUNLIGHT
  • Saves manpower by requiring only one person to test the illuminance of the light source at different distances or different powers
  • Avoids light blockage by the user's body while testing
  • Can test illuminance values in small spaces or areas that are inaccessible to humans
  • Offers ease and convenience in testing with its lightweight design

7. Plant Light Pro: Accurate Par & Dli Meter

The DLI mode of this product calculates the average light over 24 hours, which is the total amount of light energy delivered to a plant over an entire day. The Scan mode, on the other hand, averages PAR over any area scanned, which is the amount of light energy that is available for photosynthesis in plants. The Spot mode takes instant PPFD readings, which is the amount of PAR that is available for photosynthesis at a specific point in time.

This product comes with a built-in stand, stake, and magnetized screw, which allows the user to hold the meter to metal. The Extension Wand is sold separately.

The product is perfect for those who want to monitor the light intensity and duration of their plants with ease. The three different modes provide flexibility and accuracy in measuring light, making it a valuable tool for both indoor and outdoor gardeners.

Pros

  • Three different modes provide flexibility and accuracy in measuring light
  • DLI mode calculates the average light over 24 hours, providing the total amount of light energy delivered to a plant over an entire day
  • Scan mode averages PAR over any area scanned, providing the amount of light energy that is available for photosynthesis in plants
  • Spot mode takes instant PPFD readings, providing the amount of PAR that is available for photosynthesis at a specific point in time
  • Built-in stand, stake, and magnetized screw hold meter to metal

Cons

  • – Extension Wand is sold separately

8. Quantum Par Meter Light Meter For Plants Led Grow Lights Indoor High Precision Rechargeable

The QUANTUNM SUN PAR meter is a reliable and cost-effective tool for measuring the light source used in horticultural applications. It is capable of measuring up to 10,000 μmol/s, which is significantly higher than other meters on the market that can only measure up to 2,000 μmol/s. This fully portable handheld PAR meter features a highly accurate, integrated Quantum Sensor that measures PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) flux in wavelengths ranging from 400 to 700 nm. Unlike other meters with Gaussian response, this meter provides a constant linear response curve, which yields higher accuracy independent of wavelength, making it perfect for measuring LED light output. The device comes with data logging capability using proprietary data logging software available at Quantum Sun, making it a professional tool suitable for all indoor plants. The device also features an automatic electric light calibration mode, ensuring accurate readings from any source. The low power consumption of the device is supported by a built-in low battery power indication. The device is rechargeable and comes with a USB cable. You can easily charge it by plugging it into any USB port or USB adapter. It is recommended to charge it for 1-2 hours before use if the device has no power.

Pros

  • High accuracy independent of wavelength with a constant linear response curve
  • Measures up to 10,000 μmol/s, which is significantly higher than other meters on the market
  • Portable, handheld and rechargeable
  • Automatic electric light calibration mode ensures accurate readings from any source
  • Low power consumption with built-in low battery power indication
  • Professional data logging capability using proprietary data logging software available at Quantum Sun
  • Suitable for all indoor plants

9. Ppfd Pro: Advanced Par Meter For Plants & Lights

The Portable PAR Quantum Meter is the perfect tool for measuring Photosynthetically Active Radiation in the 400-700nm wavelength range, which is essential for plant growth. It can measure up to 5,000umol/(㎡s) and record 100 data points for analysis.

Equipped with a large LCD screen display, the last 4 recorded PAR (PPFD) readings can be viewed, along with the battery strength indicator. The device also features MAX/MIN/AVERAGE/HOLD functions for added convenience.

This PAR meter is particularly useful for growing plants indoors, as it can be challenging to provide the optimal lighting conditions for them. By measuring the light intensity with this device, users can effectively optimize lighting for high-value crops such as micro greens, coral reefs, chili peppers, and many more.

The handheld design of the PAR Quantum Meter allows for easy portability and use both indoors and outdoors. It is perfect for testing the light intensity of growing plants in the field, backyard, nursery, horticulture, and even underwater.

Overall, this PAR Quantum Meter is an excellent investment for anyone who wants to achieve the best possible growth for their plants.

Pros

  • Portable and handheld design for convenient use
  • Large LCD screen displays important information
  • Can measure up to 5,000umol/(㎡s) and record 100 data points
  • MAX/MIN/AVERAGE/HOLD functions for added convenience
  • Optimizes lighting for high-value crops

10. Aiomest Ft Candle Meter & Light Detector

The ANNMETER Light Meter is a high-accuracy device that can measure luminance in a wide range of scenes. It has a measuring range of 0.01-400,000 lumens (0.01-40,000 foot-candles), which is wider than most other light meters. The device has a fast response time, with 2-3 times sampling per second, allowing you to capture the intensity of light more accurately. The resolution is 0.01 lux and repeatability is ±2%. The device has multiple functions, including a back light, MIN/Max hold, data hold, data storage, auto-off time of 10 minutes, and low battery indication. You can also measure environment temperature with this lumen meter. The device comes with a bag, screwdriver, and battery, making it convenient to carry and use. ANNMETER offers a 1-year warranty and lifetime technical support, ensuring you get the most out of your product.

The ANNMETER Light Meter offers high accuracy, with a range of ≤ 10,000 Lux/ 1,000 FC and ±4% of reading ±0.5% f.S, and ≥ 10,000 Lux/ 40,000 FC and ±5% of reading ±10 digits (Calibrated to standard incandescent lamp at color temperature 2856K). The device is also very versatile, with a wide measuring range and multiple functions.

The fast response time of the ANNMETER Light Meter, with 2-3 times sampling per second, allows for more accurate measurements. The device also has a high resolution of 0.01 lux and repeatability of ±2%, ensuring precise readings every time. The lux meter can also measure environment temperature, which is very useful when growing plants.

Pros

  • Wide measuring range of 0.01-400,000 lumens (0.01-40,000 foot-candles)
  • Multiple functions, including back light, MIN/Max hold, data hold, data storage, auto-off time of 10 minutes, and low battery indication
  • Fast response time with 2-3 times sampling per second
  • High resolution of 0.01 lux and repeatability of ±2%
  • Can measure environment temperature

Cons

  • – None found

Best Par Meter For Led Grow Lights FAQs

How can par readings be used to adjust LED grow light placement, intensity and duration for maximum plant growth and yield?

Par readings are a critical component of adjusting LED grow light placement, intensity, and duration to achieve maximum plant growth and yield. PAR stands for Photosynthetically Active Radiation, which measures the intensity and quality of light that plants use for photosynthesis.

To use PAR readings, you need to measure the amount of light that your plants receive at the canopy level. This can be done using a PAR meter, which measures the intensity of light in micromoles per square meter per second (μmol/m²/s). Once you have the PAR readings, you can adjust the LED grow light placement, intensity, and duration accordingly.

If the PAR readings are too low, you need to move the LED grow light closer to the plants or increase the intensity or duration of light exposure. Conversely, if the PAR readings are too high, you need to move the LED grow light further away from the plants or decrease the intensity or duration of light exposure.

By using PAR readings to adjust LED grow light placement, intensity, and duration, you can ensure that your plants receive the optimal amount of light for maximum growth and yield. This can result in healthier plants, larger yields, and higher quality crops.

How does a par meter work and what factors should be considered when using one for LED grow lights?

A par meter is an essential tool for measuring the intensity of light in a specific area. It works by measuring the Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) of a light source. PAR refers to the wavelengths of light that plants use for photosynthesis. A par meter has a sensor that measures the amount of light that falls on it, and then converts that into PAR.

When using a par meter for LED grow lights, there are several factors that should be considered. Firstly, you need to know the optimal PAR range for your particular plant species. This will help you to adjust the intensity of your grow lights to promote optimal growth. Secondly, you should consider the distance between the light source and the plant canopy. The closer the light is to the plants, the higher the PAR value will be. Lastly, you should consider the angle of the light source. The PAR value will vary depending on the angle of the light source, so it's important to take measurements from different angles to get an accurate reading.

Overall, a par meter is an indispensable tool for any serious grower who wants to optimize the growth of their plants. By using a par meter to measure the intensity of your LED grow lights, you can ensure that your plants are receiving the optimal amount of light for healthy growth.

What are the benefits of using a par meter for LED grow lights compared to other methods of measuring light intensity, such as lux or lumens?

Using a PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) meter for LED grow lights is highly beneficial compared to other methods of measuring light intensity such as lux or lumens. PAR meters measure the intensity of light that plants use for photosynthesis, which makes them more accurate than measuring lux or lumens.

Lux meters measure the intensity of light as perceived by the human eye, which is not the same as the light that plants require for growth. Similarly, lumens measure the total amount of light emitted by a light source, but it does not take into account the specific wavelengths of light that plants require for photosynthesis.

A PAR meter, on the other hand, measures the wavelength range of light that plants can use for photosynthesis, providing accurate readings of the light intensity that plants actually receive. Using a PAR meter allows growers to optimize their lighting setup to ensure that plants receive the ideal amount of light for healthy growth and maximum yield.

In summary, using a PAR meter for LED grow lights is highly beneficial because it provides accurate measurements of the light intensity that plants require for photosynthesis, which cannot be obtained through measuring lux or lumens. This allows growers to optimize their lighting setup, resulting in healthier plants and higher yields.

What is a par meter and why is it important for measuring LED grow light intensity?

A par meter is an instrument used for measuring the intensity of light in a specific area. The term PAR stands for Photosynthetically Active Radiation, which refers to the range of light wavelengths that are necessary for photosynthesis in plants. The meter measures the amount of light within this range, which is crucial for growing plants indoors with LED lights.

The intensity of light is important because it directly affects the growth and development of plants. Too much light can damage plants, while too little light can stunt their growth. Using a par meter helps growers to ensure that the plants are receiving the right amount of light for optimal growth.

When it comes to LED grow lights, par meters are particularly important because these lights can emit light at different wavelengths and intensities. By using a par meter, growers can determine the intensity of light at different points in the grow space, allowing them to adjust the positioning and intensity of the lights accordingly.

Overall, a par meter is a critical tool for indoor growers who want to ensure that their plants are receiving the right amount of light for healthy growth and development.

What is the ideal par range for different stages of plant growth and how can a par meter help achieve optimal results?

The ideal PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) range for different stages of plant growth varies depending on the type of plant being grown. Generally, young plants require lower PAR values, while mature plants require higher PAR values. For instance, seedlings require a PAR range of 100-250 µmol/m²/s, vegetative plants require a PAR range of 400-600 µmol/m²/s, and flowering plants require a PAR range of 600-800 µmol/m²/s.

A PAR meter can help achieve optimal results by measuring the intensity of light that reaches the plant leaves. This measurement helps growers adjust the distance between the light source and the plants, ensuring that the plants receive the ideal amount of light for their growth stage. Additionally, a PAR meter helps growers identify any inconsistencies in the lighting setup, such as hot spots or areas of low light intensity, allowing for quick and efficient adjustments.

Using a PAR meter ensures that plants receive the correct amount of light, leading to optimal growth and higher yields. It is an essential tool for any serious grower looking to maximize their crop's potential.

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