Help me choose a light

[Call_Me_Bob]

Originally Posted by Magnus A

I have never considered the "normal" T5, therefore I did not recognize the statement that T5 and T8 had the same efficiency above.

I can by 54w T5HO fullspectrum 6500K in Sweden for about 7 dollar each. I consider that neglectible compared to other costs associated with our hobby...

im so jealous of you!! haha! a 4 foot 1 bulb T5HO fixture with reflectors costs $30+ here!

[QUOTE=naoki;522830]

Originally Posted by Call_Me_Bob

true, t8's and t5's are not that different in terms of efficiency and output, but t5s take up less space, therefore they are more efficient in terms of Output to Space Taken
[\QUOTE]

That's right. You should note that the temperature influence the efficiency differently, though. You are also right about the space-efficiency. As you mentioned, 2 bulbs of T8 has similar output as 1 bulb of T5HO. If you need to put lots of lights for high light orchids, then T5HO is better.

The other advantage of T5/T5HO is that the reflector can be more efficient.

yes, as mentioned the reflectors are more efficient in most T5s. although there are varying degrees of reflector quality.