This review dives into the Aqueon Planted Nano Clip-On LED Light, assessing its performance, features, and overall value. We explore whether this compact light lives up to the hype surrounding its sleek design and purported effectiveness for planted aquariums. From unboxing and initial impressions to detailed analysis of light spectrum, intensity (PAR values), and ease of installation, we leave no stone unturned. Particular attention is paid to the light's suitability for both freshwater and saltwater environments, focusing on its practical application for a 10-gallon saltwater tank housing macroalgae.This comprehensive review covers the light's build quality, focusing on its metal construction and heat dissipation capabilities. We also examine its versatile mounting system and user-friendly three-way switch. Ultimately, we weigh the pros and cons, considering aspects like brightness, light distribution, and the absence of a dimming function. Read on to discover if the Aqueon Planted Nano Clip-On LED Light is the right choice for your aquarium needs, and whether its premium features justify the price.
Pros And Cons
- Reliable brand
- Good spectrum for saltwater and freshwater plants
- Nice blue peak for saltwater tanks
- Decent PAR values (50-70) suitable for the reviewer's purposes
- Three-way soft touch control
- Versatile mounting for various aquarium thicknesses
- Attractive design
- Made from metal (aluminum) for heat dissipation
- Bright light output
- No red peak in the spectrum
- More expensive than comparable products
- Comes with a two-pin plug in the UK (requires adapter)
- No dimming functionality
- Light doesn't reach the center of the reviewer's cube-shaped tank
Read more: Top 5 NICREW Aquarium Lights
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Aqueon Planted Nano Clip-On LED Light arrived well-packaged. The first thing I noticed was its sleek, modern design; it's definitely more aesthetically pleasing than many other clip-on lights on the market. The build quality feels premium—a nice change from some cheaper plastic alternatives.
Upon closer inspection, I was impressed by the light's metal construction. The waffle-patterned design suggests a built-in heatsink, essential for preventing LED burnout. This contrasts with many cheaper lights that use plastic, shortening their lifespan.
Light Spectrum and PAR Values
The light boasts a well-balanced spectrum, featuring a prominent blue peak ideal for saltwater aquariums and a decent spectrum for freshwater plants. The absence of a red peak is unusual, given chlorophyll's red absorption, but reviews suggest it's still effective.
PAR values are stated at 50-70, which might be considered a medium rating. However, this range is perfectly suitable for my macroalgae, which don't require overly intense light. The 3D graph visualizing PAR intensity is a helpful feature.
Features and Mounting
This light includes a three-way soft-touch control (on, blue only, off), versatile mounting capabilities accommodating various aquarium thicknesses, 60 bright LEDs, and suitability for tanks up to 20 gallons (though I'm using it on a 10-gallon tank).
The flexible mounting system is a major plus. It allows adjustment for tanks with various glass thicknesses, unlike some lights restricted to standard 5mm glass. The 90-degree bend provides ample adjustment for placement.
Installation and Performance
Installation was straightforward. However, note that if you're in the UK (like me), you'll need a plug adapter as it comes with a two-pin US plug. The light is exceptionally bright, almost painfully so when viewed directly—a testament to its power.
The three-way switch provides easy control: all lights on, blue only, or off. No dimming is available, which some users may find limiting, but the brightness is adequate for my purposes.
Application in My Saltwater Tank
I replaced a previously overly powerful LED light causing macroalgae issues. This Aqueon light provides a more suitable spectrum and intensity for my 10-gallon saltwater tank with macroalgae.
The light's placement does not perfectly illuminate the center of my cube-shaped tank, which might be a minor drawback for similar setups. However, the light spread is still sufficient, and the macroalgae in the back and sides appear healthy.
Conclusion and Final Verdict
The Aqueon Planted Nano Clip-On LED Light is a high-quality, aesthetically pleasing aquarium light, ideal for smaller tanks. The metal construction ensures durability, and the balanced light spectrum is suitable for both saltwater and freshwater applications.
While the lack of dimming and the slight issue with center illumination in my cube tank are minor drawbacks, the overall performance, build quality, and ease of use make it a worthwhile purchase. The brightness is excellent, and the mounting system is very versatile.
