10 Best 72-inch Aquarium Lights [2025]
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Finding the best 72-inch aquarium lights for your setup can be a daunting task, given the multitude of options available on the market. With various features, specifications, and price points to consider, it can be overwhelming to narrow down the choices on your own. To simplify this process, we have carefully shortlisted 10 top products that cater to different needs and preferences. Our curated list not only saves you time but also alleviates the hassle of searching, ensuring you make an informed choice for your aquatic environment.
Top 10 72-inch Aquarium Lights In The Market
72-inch Aquarium Lights Review
- Powerful LEDs - equipped with an upgraded 5730 chip that is brighter while still energy efficient. 66W @ 8000 lumen. Super bright 10000K LEDs with 460nm Blue, 660 nm red, and green brilliantly shimmers through your aquarium.
- Timer and Modes - Three timer modes for auto shut off. 4 / 8 / 12 hour. Press the timer button on the controller until the desired count down timer to shut off. Simple to operate rather than taking hours to program a ramp module. 3 Modes - the controller allows users to select the three available modes. Mode 1 is full power / all on. Mode 2 is white, red, and green. Mode 3 is blue only for night viewing.
- Dimmable LEDs - Different environments require different moods. Users have five dimming levels to adjust for the intensity and output from the LEDs. Press the plus minus button to adjust for desired brightness.
- Future Upgrade Ready - all fixtures are contructed of aluminum housing that is pre-wired for all future upgrades. Beamswork offer other controller modules for specific functions from timer, dimmer, and ramp. Brackets are clear plastic that will not rust over time or get stuck from calcium deposits. 60 and 72 inch light kits will include two connecting fixtures and two brackets. KEEP LIGHT AWAY FROM SPLASHING WATER.
- DA 180 FSPEC - 200x 5730 LEDS (132x 10000K, 32x 460nm Blue, 18x 660nm Red, 18x Green). Body dimensions: 72.00 x 5.25 x 1.25 inches. Brackets add 1.00 inch in height. 72 inch fixtures are a combination of two 36 inch fixtures.
- Full spectrum LEDs aquarium light, bring more natural light to your animal and plant
- 3 OPTIONAL CONTROL MODES: All LEDs On / Only Blue LEDs On / Close
- Super bright 5730SMD. High-quality LEDs for low energy dissipation. Aluminum case for faster cooling to keep long service life
- SUITABLE TANK LENGTH: 150cm/ 60 inch- 180cm/ 72 inch. With extendable bracket to fits your tank. Color temperature(K) : 8000. Lumen :2040. Power: 40W.
- This light is not waterproof, please don't put it into the water
- Full spectrum LEDs aquarium light, bring more natural light to your animal and plant. 3 optional control modes: All LEDs On / Only Blue LEDs On / Close
- Super bright 5730SMD. High-quality LEDs for low energy dissipation. Aluminum case for faster cooling to keep long service life
- Suitable Tank Length: 180cm/ 72inch- 210cm/ 84inch. With extendable bracket to fits your tank. Color temperature(K) : 8000. Lumen :2350. Power: 43W
- This light is not waterproof, please don't put it into the water.
- Package include: 1x LED Aquarium Light, 2x Extendable Brackets, 1 x Power Supply. We will check the packaging carefully before shipping, avoid the damage to the light during transit
- Two mode for Daylight and night light. Suitable for freshwater and marine tank. 5730 SMD White and Blue LEDs provide amazing shimmer.
- Suitable Tank Length: 72inch/ 180cm - 78inch/ 200cm. With extendable bracket to fits your tank.
- High-quality LEDs for low energy dissipation. Aluminum case for faster cooling to keep long service life. Lumen: 5124. Power: 33-34W.
- This light is not waterproof, please don't put it into the water.
- Package include: 1x LED Aquarium Light, 2x Extendable Brackets, 1 x Power Supply. We will check the packaging carefully before shipping, avoid the damage to the light during transit.
- UPGRADED: This Upgraded Full spectrum LED aquarium light, bring more natural light to your fish and plant. Not only helps plants to grow more luxuriant, but also create vivid color on your fish tank animals, increase the ornamental value of your aquariums
- 5730SMD: High-quality LEDs for low energy dissipation. Aluminum case for faster cooling to keep long service life. Color temperature(K) : 8000. Lumen :2350. Power: 43W
- 3 OPTIONAL CONTROL MODES: All LEDs On / Only Blue LEDs On / Close
- SUITABLE TANK LENGTH: 180cm/ 72 inch- 210cm/ 84 inch. With extendable bracket to fits your tank.
- INCLUDE: 1x LED Aquarium Light, 2x Extendable Brackets, 1 x Power Supply. We will check the packaging carefully before shipping, to avoid the damage to the light during transit. This light is not waterproof, please don't put it into the water
- SUNRISE AND SUNSET: Just press the corresponding time to waking the fish up in soft lighting and ensuring a good sleep with complete off at night. Suitable for freshwater or saltwater fish and low-medium light level plants
- DIY MODE: Timing+Color+Brightness+Dimmable can be set. The start time, end time, aquarium light color and brightness of each time period can be set freely according to your preferences. That has 4 time for 6 hours, or 9 hours, or 12 hours, or 16 hours. The brightness of the white light can be set from 10% to 100%. LED Aquarium Light color can be set to one of white, red, green, blue. And the most special of Remix mode, including color fade, color jump, flash and so on
- WRGB LAMPE: This aquarium light uses WRGB lamp beads. The three primary colors are scientifically adjusted to simulate natural light without flickering. It not only promotes the growth of water plants, but also better appreciation of aquatic plants without distortion, restoring the most accurate natural colors of fish and aquatic plants
- 1.2mm premium aluminum shell provides more effective heat transfer, no fan and low voltage DC adapter, safe to use and energy saving, and this aquarium lights for fish tank is recommended for use over glass or acrylic canopy-covered aquariums
- ADJUSTABLE MOUNTS: Adjustable docking mounts on both sides provide an easy way for quick adaptability to fit most rimless and framed aquariums
- SLEEK DESIGN, BRILLIANTLY BRIGHT – Bring your aquarium to life with stunning color, amazing shimmer and immersive lighting scenes. Featuring an incredibly sleek, low profile aluminum design and wireless 24-hour IR controller, the Satellite LED Plus is now better than ever!
- SUPER BRIGHT- 6500k White LEDs and rich full spectrum RGB LED's come together to deliver stunning color rendition that's dialed in for freshwater aquariums.
- 24-HOUR WIRELESS TIMER CONTROL - Wirelessly set any color shade or automate your lights on a 24-hour schedule. Program a daily on/off time, gentle sunrise and sunset, bright daylight and soothing moon light. Connect a set of speakers or a background light to experience even more immersive effects.
- EASY-TO-INSTALL - Sliding docking legs allow quick and easy adjustments for a wide variety of installations. Intuitive wireless remote control makes programming simple.
- 30 DAY -We are so sure you’ll be happy with your purchase that we offer a “30-Day Money-Back ” to ensure customer satisfaction of our Current USA products. If for any reason you wish to discontinue using the products, we will promptly issue a refund.
- Full-Spectrum RGBW LED Lighting: Go beyond basic white light! Our advanced RGBW LEDs allow you to unlock an incredible array of colors, from crisp whites to vivid reds, calming blues, and lush greens. Accentuate the natural beauty of your fish and plants, and create breathtaking visual displays.
- Intuitive Remote Control: Take complete command of your aquarium's ambiance with the included RGB remote control. Easily adjust colors, select preset modes, or dive into dynamic effects to perfectly match your mood or simulate natural light cycles.
- Dynamic Lighting Modes: Pre-programmed modes allow for effortless creation of captivating lighting scenarios. Simulate a gentle dawn, a vibrant midday, a serene sunset, or even a moonlit night with the touch of a button.
- Customizable Color Creation: For the ultimate personalization, you can create and save your own custom colors! Precisely dial in the perfect shade to highlight specific fish, enhance plant growth, or simply create a unique aesthetic that's all your own.
- Easy Installation & Setup: Designed for hassle-free integration with your existing aquarium, the Satellite Color LED Light Fixture features adjustable docking legs for a secure and snug fit. The clear, concise instruction manual guides you through every step of the setup process.
- BRIGHTER, MORE COLORS- Your aquarium is full of spectacular colors, why not bring them all to life. Introducing the new Orbit Marine LED. Now packed with even more ultra-bright LEDs in a far wider color spectrum, it will make your corals and fish look even more spectacular. And it’s now in the LOOP, providing both light and pump control, taking your aquarium experience to a whole new level.
- SUPER COLOR- Producing eye-popping color rendition and brilliant shimmer effects, the Orbit Marine produces a limitless number of color spectrums. A higher ratio of actinic blue spectrum LEDs balanced with full spectrum creates the perfect color combination for fish, inverts, live rock and corals to fluoresce and look amazing. Wide angle dispersion lenses evenly spread light over your entire tank while ensuring superior color blending.
- MULTIPLE MODES- With modes that dim periodically to create cloud cover effects, storm modes that will blow you away complete with lightning strikes and innovative evening modes that include lunar and dusk – it’s sure to add excitement and intrigue to any aquarium.
- EASY INSTALLATION- Extendable brakets allows this LED light to fit most aquairum fish tanks 18-24 inches wide.
- REALISTIC EFFECTS- From start-up to sundown, the Orbit Marine gradually mimics the effect of a slow sunrise, bright daylight, dimming sunset and moonlight. Built-in lighting programs create a 24-hour natural biorhythmic lighting cycle, while on-demand dynamic weather effects gently roll clouds across your reef.
- FULL SPECTRUM- Producing eye-popping color and amazing color rendition, full spectrum control allows you to create the perfect color spectra for your reef. A powerful blend of Dual Actinic blue 445nm/460nm, Dual Daylight white 6,700K/10,000K and RGB LEDs combined with 90° spherical optical lenses delivers the perfect blend of light for strong coral growth and amazing fluorescence.
- NEW TECHNOLOGY- The new Orbit Marine IC LED brings your aquarium to life in an entirely new way. Delivering brilliant color and brightness, it’s capable of things never seen before in an aquarium light. From watching clouds gently roll across your reef to producing surging water currents and pulsing waves, it completely changes your aquarium experience.
- MULTIPLE MODES- With modes that dim periodically to create cloud cover effects, storm modes that will blow you away complete with lightning strikes and innovative evening modes that include lunar and dusk – it’s sure to add excitement and intrigue to any aquarium.
- EASY INSTALLATION- Extendable brakets allows this LED light to fit most aquairum fish tanks 18-24 inches wide.
- REALISTIC EFFECTS- From start-up to sundown, the Orbit Marine gradually mimics the effect of a slow sunrise, bright daylight, dimming sunset and moonlight. Built-in lighting programs create a 24-hour natural biorhythmic lighting cycle, while on-demand dynamic weather effects gently roll clouds across your reef.
Our Review Process
To ensure you get reliable product recommendations, we follow a detailed review methodology that includes:
- Market Research: Scanning best-selling and trending products in this category.
- User Feedback: Reviewing customer reviews, star ratings, and complaints.
- Hands-On Testing: Trying select products ourselves when feasible.
- Feature Comparison: Evaluating specs, durability, pricing, and safety.
- Expert Opinions: Consulting with niche experts or credible reviewers.
We independently select the top 10 options based on value, quality, and usability. To learn more, visit our detailed review process.
Key Considerations Before Buying 72-Inch Aquarium Lights
1. Type of Lighting
Understanding the different types of aquarium lights available is essential. Common options include LED, fluorescent, and metal halide lighting. LED lights are popular due to their energy efficiency and longevity, while fluorescent lights provide a good spectrum for plant growth. Metal halide lights are powerful but can generate significant heat, which may require additional cooling solutions.
2. Light Spectrum
The light spectrum is crucial for the health of both freshwater and saltwater aquariums. Different aquatic plants and corals thrive under different light spectrums. Look for lights that offer a full spectrum, including blue and red wavelengths, which promote photosynthesis and enhance the color of fish and corals.
3. Intensity and Coverage
The intensity of the light should match the needs of your aquarium’s inhabitants. Consider the depth of your tank and the types of plants or corals you’re keeping. A 72-inch light should provide adequate coverage for larger tanks, but check the lumen output to ensure sufficient intensity across the entire aquarium.
4. Heat Production
Heat output is an important factor when selecting aquarium lights. Excessive heat can raise the water temperature, which may stress fish and plants. LED lights generally produce less heat compared to other types. If you opt for a heat-generating option like metal halides, ensure your aquarium has adequate cooling systems in place.
5. Energy Efficiency
Consider the energy consumption of the lighting system. LED lights are typically the most energy-efficient, resulting in lower electricity bills over time. Evaluate the wattage of the light fixture and its expected lifespan to determine the long-term costs associated with operating the lights.
6. Mounting Options
How the lights will be mounted over the aquarium is another consideration. Some lights come with adjustable mounting brackets, while others may require additional hardware. Ensure that the mounting system suits your aquarium setup and provides the necessary height and angle for optimal light penetration.
7. Budget
Setting a budget is crucial before making a purchase. Prices for 72-inch aquarium lights can vary significantly based on the type, brand, and features. While it might be tempting to go for cheaper options, investing in high-quality lighting can lead to better long-term results for your aquarium.
8. Brand Reputation and Warranty
Research the brands available on the market. Established brands often provide better customer support and warranty options. A good warranty can offer peace of mind, especially when investing in more expensive lighting solutions.
FAQs
What types of 72-inch aquarium lights are available?
There are several types of 72-inch aquarium lights available, including LED lights, fluorescent lights, metal halide lights, and T5HO (high output) lights. Each type offers different benefits in terms of energy efficiency, brightness, and spectrum of light suitable for various aquatic life.
What is the best type of lighting for a 72-inch freshwater aquarium?
For freshwater aquariums, LED lights are often considered the best option due to their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and ability to produce a full spectrum of light that promotes plant growth while enhancing the colors of the fish. T5HO lights are also popular for planted tanks, providing high output and a wide range of color options.
How much power do 72-inch aquarium lights consume?
The power consumption of 72-inch aquarium lights varies based on the type and model. LED lights typically consume between 100 to 300 watts, while fluorescent and metal halide lights may use more, often exceeding 400 watts. It’s essential to check the specifications of the specific light you are considering to determine its power usage.
How do I install 72-inch aquarium lights?
Installing 72-inch aquarium lights generally involves mounting the light fixture above the aquarium using hanging hardware or placing it directly on the tank if designed for that. Ensure that the lights are securely fastened and positioned to provide even coverage across the tank. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation to avoid any issues.
What color temperature should I look for in 72-inch aquarium lights?
The color temperature for aquarium lights is typically measured in Kelvin (K). For freshwater tanks, lights in the range of 5000K to 7000K are ideal for plant growth and providing a natural appearance. Reef aquariums often benefit from a higher color temperature, around 10000K to 14000K, to enhance coral colors and growth.
Do 72-inch aquarium lights need a timer?
Using a timer for your 72-inch aquarium lights is highly recommended. A timer helps maintain a consistent lighting schedule, which is crucial for the health of both plants and fish. Typically, a lighting period of 8 to 12 hours per day is ideal, mimicking natural daylight cycles.
Can I use dimmable 72-inch aquarium lights?
Yes, many modern 72-inch aquarium lights come with dimmable features, allowing you to adjust the brightness according to the needs of your aquatic inhabitants. Dimming can reduce stress on fish and help with algae control in planted tanks. However, ensure that any dimmer used is compatible with your specific lighting type.
How often should I replace my 72-inch aquarium lights?
The lifespan of 72-inch aquarium lights varies by type. LED lights can last up to 50,000 hours, while fluorescent bulbs typically last around 10,000 hours and metal halide bulbs around 12,000 hours. It’s essential to monitor the output and quality of light regularly and replace them as needed to ensure optimal growth for plants and health for fish.
Are 72-inch aquarium lights safe for all types of fish?
In general, 72-inch aquarium lights are safe for most types of fish; however, it is crucial to choose the right type of lighting and intensity based on the species you have. Some fish may prefer dimmer lighting, while others thrive in brighter conditions. Always research the needs of your specific fish and adjust the lighting accordingly.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, selecting the right lighting for your 72-inch aquarium is crucial for the health of your aquatic life and the aesthetic appeal of your setup. We carefully curated this list of the top 10 aquarium lights based on several key factors, including brightness, energy efficiency, ease of installation, and user reviews. Each product was evaluated on its ability to enhance the growth of aquatic plants, support coral reefs, and illuminate your aquarium beautifully while ensuring that it meets the needs of both novice and experienced aquarium enthusiasts.
By following our recommendations, you can confidently choose a lighting solution that complements your aquarium’s environment and promotes a thriving ecosystem. Investing in one of these high-quality aquarium lights will not only improve the visual impact of your tank but also contribute to the overall well-being of its inhabitants. Whether you’re setting up a freshwater or saltwater aquarium, our top picks will guide you in creating a stunning underwater world that you can enjoy for years to come.
