Sodium vapor lamps are gas-discharge lamps that use sodium in an excited state to produce light at a characteristic wavelength near 589 nm. Two varieties of such lamps exist: low-pressure and high-pressure. The high-pressure types of fluorescent growing lamps emit high levels of light with a color temperature of approximately 3000K.
HPS lamps have many benefits over other types of grow lamps because they produce a large amount of usable light while maximizing lumens per watt. In other words, HPS bulbs will consume less electricity than other forms of lighting while producing the same level of usable lighting for your plants.
Another benefit to HPS lights is the lifespan of about 24,000 hours and is fairly cheap to replace compared to the metal halide bulbs. When using HPS lights consumers do not run the risk of coming into contact with mercury, infrared, or UV lights that can cause harm to animals and people.
HPS bulbs are an excellent choice for most indoor grow operations because they simulate the natural light spectrum, which generally leads to higher quality and higher yield of plants. Also, since the light spectrum is similar to natural sunlight, the plants will remain healthy and develop a good structure with good roots and strong stems.
This article will discuss the pros and cons of the best HPS bulbs available in the market for your convenience.
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Eye Hortilux HX66710 Super HPS-High Pressure Sodium Grow Lamp LU600S/HTL/EN | Best Overall |  |
| Apollo Horticulture GLBHPS400 400 | Budget Pick |  |
| Eye Hortilux HX66620 Hortilux Super HPS | Upgrade Pick |  |
1. Eye Hortilux HX66710 Super HPS-High Pressure Sodium Grow Lamp LU600S/HTL/EN
Pros:
- Extend the growing season to 365 days a year with eye hortilux grow lamps
- Produces noticeably bigger, fuller flowers and overall heavier yields
- Maintains results after multiple growth cycles, saving you money
- Provides 25% more light energy in Violet, Blue, and Green
- Provides 17% more total spectral energy
- Optimizing spectral energy levels that promote vigorous plant growth
- EN lamps are completely lead-free and contain less mercury than standard HPS lamps
- Lamps pass EPA, TCLP test criteria as non-hazardous waste
- Well-built and durable
Cons:
- It Burns out too quick
- Not long-lasting
The Eye Hortilux HPS-LU 600-Watt grow lamp has a powerful color temperature that will provide your plants with the right measure of light for optimum growth.
HORTILUX Super HPS produces noticeably bigger, fuller flowers and overall heavier yields. Super HPS also produces these results for multiple growth cycles. This saves you time and money over cheaper brands – which need to be replaced after every cycle.
This lamp burns hot in order to run more efficiently and produce a higher yield. It produces more light per lumen than other HPS lamps, so it requires a ballast and a ferrite core to maintain proper alignment. The
2. EyeHortilux HX66785 1000-Watt Super HPS Spectrum Grow Bulb
Pros:
- Provide 17% more total energy and 25% more energy in the violet, blue, and green spectrum than standard high-pressure sodium lamps
- Rated Initial Lumens is 145,000
- Average Rated Life of 24,000 hours
Cons:
- Expensive bulb
- Great customer service
The EyeHortilux is a 1000watt grow light with a spectrum that is optimal for flowering and vegetative growth. Some of the features include durability, power, light penetration, and intensity.
The bulb promotes optimal growth by providing photosynthetic light rays that your plants need to grow healthy and strong. It is designed to improve the quality of growth during the flowering stage – an essential part of the growing process.
Moreover, this bulb is designed to last several years longer than other traditional grow bulbs. Not only that, it has a higher buying cost than other types of grow bulbs, but it will last for several years longer than other bulbs.
3. Ushio US5001670 Enhanced Performance HPS Lamp
Pros:
- SUPER high output HPS with maximized output in both red and blue spectral range
- SUPER HPS bulb with maximum output in both red and blue spectrum
- Runs on HPS Ballast
- Optimized for maximum flower yield and added blue spectrum for vegetative growth efficiency
- Outperforms standard HPS bulbs
- Smart technology for extended lifespan
Cons:
- Power output is lower than last-generation bulbs
- Replacements require precise applications
- The brand is relatively untested in the industry
The Opti-Max red series HPS lamp from Ushio is a 600-watt, high-performance HPS lamp for commercial growers. The bulb’s smart technology provides an extended lifespan of 50,000 hours, more than double that of a traditional bulb. The lamp is designed to fit precisely into a 600-watt metal halide ballast.
What’s interesting about this lamp is the Advanced Burn Technology. It offers a softer and smoother light than older bulbs. It also has a smaller heat footprint, and the compact design is well-suited for smaller growing areas.
What’s great about Opti-Max is how precise the technology is. The coating on the bulb helps it radiate heat in a more focused way than older bulbs. Heat is focused upwards, so the heat is radiated into the canopy instead of dissipating into the surrounding environment. This allows for faster growth and better foliage cover “ maximized light transmission.
4. Eye Hortilux HX66620 Hortilux Super HPS
Pros:
- Hortilux Super HPS 400W, enhanced spectrum grow light
- Optimizes spectral energy levels that promote vigorous plant growth
- Provides 17% more total energy and 25% more energy in the violet, blue, and green spectrum than standard high-pressure sodium lamps
- Environmentally friendly and pass EPA TCLP test criteria as non-hazardous waste
- Completely lead-free
- UVA & UVB contributions increase the growth and development of tomatoes, peppers, and other fruit-bearing plants
Cons:
- They burn out fast
- Not long-lasting
If you’re planning to grow plants in your garden, this is one bulb you must get. What makes the Eye Hortilux HX66620 Hortilux Super HPS (High-Pressure Sodium) Enhanced Spectrum Lamp, 400W, Natural White Bulb stand out is that it is a full spectrum bulb that emits true 100% usable light because of its enriched coating. This means it will give plants the bright, healthy look that you desire.
5. Ushio US5002442 Pro Plus DE HPS 1000W Double Ended Bulb
Pros:
- High Red and Blue spectral ratios for good photosynthesis efficiency
- Economical (long average life, high lumen output, low energy consumption)
- Made in Germany and engineered in a Iso9001 certified facility
- No assembly required
- Tubular low profile design for compact fixture
Cons:
- High heat generated
HPS grow lights are a must-have for the serious indoor gardener looking for optimal results. They’ll provide your plants with the intense, blue spectrum light they love and your garden with the specific light it needs to thrive.
The Ushio US5002442 Pro Plus DE HPS 1000W Double-Ended Bulb Clear Glass is a prime example. This bulb provides a high-intensity plant-growing light in a double-ended configuration. It spreads light from both ends for truly even growing power and consistent, rich color and light penetration.
6. Apollo Horticulture GLBHPS400 400
Pros:
- Compatible with electronic and magnetic ballasts (56,000 Lumens)
- High-pressure sodium's light spectrum stimulates flower growth and enhances fruiting
- 2000K Red-Orange spectrum, designed specifically for professional hydroponic plant cultivation
- Expected bulb life is 24,000 hours
- Ideal for both large and small gardens
Cons:
- Tends to quit working in a month
- Some customers reported that the light is not as bright as they expected it to be
The Apollo Horticulture's GLBHPS 400 is a 400W HPS bulb that delivers life to your plants. This bulb replaces any 400W HID or MH using a magnetic or digital ballast.
This bulb is ideal for any edible garden you want to grow. It uses a highly rated, high-quality grow lamp designed for both an indoor and outdoor environment.
It's optimized to produce long-lasting results and can be used for any plant in the hydroponic process. Apollo Horticulture's GLB-HPS400 will not disappoint your garden. Most importantly, it gives the plants ample nutrition and nutrients that are needed to quick growth.
7. iPower GLBULBH400 400W Pressure Sodium HPS Grow Light Bulb Lamp
Pros:
- High lumen output at 400 watts, 55,000 lumens, compatible with electronic and magnetic ballast, E39 base
- Designed specifically for professional hydroponic plant cultivation
- CCT 2,100K, optimized red & orange spectrum and high PAR to stimulate flower growth and enhance fruiting
- Extra-low lumen depreciation maintaining over 90% of initial lumen output after running for 6,500 hours
- Exceptional bulb life of 32,000 hours
- Internal gears are 100% stainless steel and rust-free
- Fully adjustable and lockable
- Tear and rust resistant
Cons:
- Heat can be a problem
- Users reported quick-burning out and a short lifespan
The iPower GLBULBH400, 400W Pressure Sodium HPS Grow Light Bulb Lamp is an incredibly bright bulb that covers plant growth perfectly. This bulb is best for seedlings and sprouts that require lots of light. It has exceptional PAR light intensity. The bulb emits very little heat, so there is less danger of burns.
This bulb is ideal for growing plants, flowers, vegetables, indoor plants, and indoor plants for hydroponics. Essentially, the iPower GLBULBH400, 400W pressure sodium HPS grow light bulb comes in handy for many different purposes. It makes an excellent plant light bulb for the home because it is bright and easy to use.
8. Ushio US5001669 Enhanced Performance HPS Lamp
Pros:
- Super high output lamp technology
- Optimized spectrum, distribution pattern, lumen output, and irradiance
- Reliable operation throughout the growth cycle
- Highest quality and consistent performance
- Long-lasting and stable
- Can be used for several years
- Energy efficient
- Long life span
- 1-year warranty
Cons:
- Users complain this bulb had no effects on their vegetation
- The bulb had issues with its slot in the reflector bracket
The Ushio Enhanced Performance HPS Lamp, a 400W bulb, comes in warm and cool white. It uses less electricity and cuts down or defeats greenhouse emissions by 85 percent, and this bulb is very energy efficient.
The real benefit of the Ushio bulbs lies in their extended life span. This bulb has a fine construction and comes with a 1-year warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What's the best HPS grow bulb?
When looking for the best HPS grow bulb, the light spectrum is an essential thing to consider. Ideally, the bulb should cover the full spectrum range visible to the human eye. But apart from that, ensure that the bulb has a good light intensity rating.
The Eye Hortilux HPS-LU 600-Watt grow lamp has a powerful color temperature that will provide your plants with the right measure of light for optimum growth.
HORTILUX Super HPS produces noticeably bigger, fuller flowers and overall heavier yields. Super HPS also produces these results for multiple growth cycles. This saves you time and money over cheaper brands – which need to be replaced after every cycle.
What is better for growing LED or HPS?
Although commercial and professional grow-lights may have more robust components, they are expensive. Instead of buying a new grow light for your garden, consider using a high-quality LED bulb. They use 80-85% less energy, last 25 times longer, have a higher light intensity, and emit light at a more natural daylight spectrum. LEDs also have the added benefit of making your garden greener. Yes, that’s right, green (and not just because it’s weed free).
What's better for veg HPS or MH?
The answer to this question depends on your specific application. MH is more effective for growing leafy and root veggies, while HPS is great for fruiting veggies that require more flowering. Some plants do well with both types of bulbs.
What is the best 600 watt HPS grow light?
Commercial growers and horticultural scientists use these lamps to produce high yields like tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and fruits.
The best 600W HPS light is the one that delivers full-spectrum light, including UV light. This makes them ideal for the growth of fruiting plants, including vegetables, herbs, and flowers.
Be sure to get a full spectrum to grow lamps for your home garden since it will eliminate the need for additional lighting. And it’s a smart investment since it typically lasts longer than other HPS bulbs.
Because this lamp produces high heat levels, it’s essential to use a sturdy lampstand and fan. Always use extra protection when working with this lamp.
Conclusion
This is a decision not to be taken lightly. The best HPS bulb for your garden should flame beautifully, be easy to install and come with a great warranty. In our experience, the best bulbs to achieve all of these requirements are listed in the article. We hope that this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Our Recommendation
| Name | Category | Product |
|---|---|---|
| Eye Hortilux HX66710 Super HPS-High Pressure Sodium Grow Lamp LU600S/HTL/EN | Best Overall | |
| Apollo Horticulture GLBHPS400 400 | Budget Pick | |
| Eye Hortilux HX66620 Hortilux Super HPS | Upgrade Pick | |