Aqua One Strip Glow Light Review: Tropical vs. Plant Glow

This review dives into the Aqua One Strip Glow Light, specifically comparing the Tropical and Plant Glow versions. We unpack the 60cm light, detailing its surprisingly slim profile and straightforward assembly, despite a comedically challenged one-handed installation attempt. The review covers the simple mounting process, adjustable brightness via a touch-sensitive button, and the light's impressively minimal heat output.A key focus is the comparison between the Tropical and the reviewer's existing Plant Glow light. The Tropical version shines brighter, significantly enhancing the colors of fish and plants. However, the review notes a malfunctioning control button on the Plant Glow model, raising a potential concern about control reliability, though it may be an isolated incident. Overall, the Aqua One Tropical Strip Glow Light emerges as a strong contender for those seeking vibrant aquarium lighting, thanks to its slim design, easy brightness control, and effective color enhancement.

Pros And Cons

Aqua One Strip Glow Light (Tropical 60cm)
  • Very thin (1-2 centimeters)
  • Produces little heat
  • Bright
  • Brightness adjustable (touch button control)
  • Extensible legs for different aquarium sizes (59-67cm)
  • None explicitly mentioned in the review.
Aqua One Strip Glow Light (Plant Glow)
  • None explicitly mentioned in the review, although the reviewer notes a preference for the Tropical version.
  • Button doesn't work properly.
  • Needs to be unplugged to turn off.

Read more: Top 5 NICREW Aquarium Lights

Unboxing the Aqua One Tropical 60cm Strip Glow Light

The package arrived neatly containing the 60cm light, which is surprisingly slim.

The Aqua One Strip Glow Light box being opened.
The Aqua One Strip Glow Light box being opened.

Inside, I also found the mounting brackets and the power supply.

The 60cm light bar removed from its packaging.
The 60cm light bar removed from its packaging.

Assembly seems straightforward, though I attempted a one-handed setup for the video, which made it slightly more challenging.

The mounting brackets and power supply shown.
The mounting brackets and power supply shown.

Installation and Mounting

The mounting process is simple, using small metal brackets and screws to secure the light to the aquarium.

Close-up of the mounting brackets and screws.
Close-up of the mounting brackets and screws.

The brackets allow for adjustment to fit different tank sizes.

The presenter attempts a one-handed installation
The presenter attempts a one-handed installation

The one-handed installation attempt adds a touch of comedic flair to the video.

Brightness, Heat, and Features

The light is incredibly thin (approximately 1-2cm) and surprisingly produces minimal heat.

Close-up showcasing the slim profile of the light.
Close-up showcasing the slim profile of the light.

It features a touch-sensitive button for easy brightness control; single tap for on/off, triple tap for max brightness, and hold for dimming.

The touch-sensitive control button highlighted.
The touch-sensitive control button highlighted.

The brightness is adjustable, allowing for customization to suit your needs.

The light displaying maximum brightness.
The light displaying maximum brightness.

Tropical vs. Plant Glow: A Comparison

The reviewer compares the Tropical version to their existing Plant Glow light.

Comparison shot of the tank with both lights.
Comparison shot of the tank with both lights.

The Tropical version is brighter and enhances the colors of fish and plants more effectively.

Close-up showcasing color difference between Tropical and Plant Glow
Close-up showcasing color difference between Tropical and Plant Glow

The Plant Glow light, while designed for plant growth, has a malfunctioning control button in this instance.

The malfunctioning Plant Glow light.
The malfunctioning Plant Glow light.

Final Verdict

The Aqua One Tropical Strip Glow Light is a highly effective aquarium light, especially noteworthy for its slim design, minimal heat output, and adjustable brightness.

The tank with the Tropical light at max brightness.
The tank with the Tropical light at max brightness.

The improved color rendition compared to the Plant Glow version makes it a strong contender for those prioritizing vibrant colors in their aquarium.

However, potential buyers should be aware of potential issues with the light's controls as experienced with the Plant Glow model, although it may be an isolated instance.