This review dives deep into the Finnex Planted+ 24/7 aquarium light, examining its features, performance, and overall value. We'll explore the ease of setup, the functionality of the included remote control, and the build quality of the light fixture itself. Particular attention will be paid to the innovative 24/7 mode, designed to mimic natural daylight cycles and promote healthy plant growth in your aquarium. We'll also assess the various lighting modes, including the more whimsical options like "Cloudy" and "Thunder," evaluating their practical application and overall usefulness.From unboxing and initial setup to a detailed examination of the lighting modes and remote control functionalities, this comprehensive review provides a balanced perspective on the Finnex Planted+ 24/7. We'll discuss both the strengths and weaknesses of this popular aquarium light, ultimately determining whether it lives up to the hype and represents a worthwhile investment for aquarists of all experience levels.
Pros And Cons
- 24/7 feature mimics moonlight and sunrise/sunset
- Remote control with max brightness, cloudy, thunder, sunny, moon functions
- Individual control over white, red, green, and blue LEDs
- Four memory settings
- Razor-thin design
- Flimsy mounting brackets
- Cloudy, thunder, and sunny functions may be gimmicky
- Large power brick
Read more: Top 5 NICREW Aquarium Lights
Unboxing the Finnex Planted+ 24/7
The Finnex Planted+ 24/7 arrived in a sturdy box showcasing the product's sleek design and highlighting key features. The box art features clear images of the light, the remote control, and the Finnex logo. The packaging is informative, clearly indicating the model (30” or 36”) and providing details on specifications like dimensions, wattage, and the number of LEDs.
The back of the box displays safety precautions and installation instructions, making setup straightforward. It’s important to note the specifications for both the 30-inch and 36-inch models, providing details on LED quantity (white and RGB) and dimensions. This allows buyers to choose the best fit for their aquariums.
Exploring the Remote Control Features
The included remote control offers a comprehensive range of lighting options. The intuitive layout allows for easy control of power, brightness, and various lighting modes. Key features include the 'Max' button for full brightness, a 24/7 mode for a natural day/night cycle, and individual control over white, red, green, and blue LEDs.
The remote also includes fun, albeit somewhat gimmicky, features like ‘Cloudy,’ ‘Thunder,’ ‘Sunny,’ and ‘Moon’ settings to simulate different atmospheric conditions. Four memory slots allow you to save your preferred lighting configurations. The remote is powered by a readily available battery and a simple installation is guaranteed.
A Closer Look at the Light Fixture
The Finnex Planted+ 24/7 boasts a slim and sleek profile. The aluminum construction is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. The light includes adjustable mounting feet, suitable for both rimless and framed aquariums, however, the reviewer cautions about the fragility of the clamps during adjustments.
Powering the unit is handled by a fairly sizeable power brick, connected via a relatively long cord. The IR sensor for remote control functionality is located on the side of the fixture, with a supplied adhesive strip for convenient attachment to the aquarium. The thin profile allows for minimal visual impact on the overall setup.
Testing the 24/7 Functionality and Other Lighting Modes
The 24/7 mode simulates natural daylight conditions, gradually transitioning between brighter daytime settings and a subdued moonlight effect at night. This feature is designed to promote healthy plant growth and mimic natural aquatic environments. The reviewer demonstrated the smooth transition from daytime to nighttime lighting, which gradually dims as the night progresses.
The reviewer demonstrates the ‘Cloudy,’ ‘Moon,’ ‘Sunny,’ and ‘Thunder’ modes, highlighting the differences in color temperature and intensity. While the reviewer found the ‘Cloudy’ and ‘Moon’ modes useful, the ‘Sunny’ and ‘Thunder’ modes were deemed less practical for everyday use. Individual control over white, red, green, and blue LEDs allows for fine-tuning the light spectrum, catering to diverse plant needs.
Final Verdict: Is the Finnex Planted+ 24/7 Worth It?
The Finnex Planted+ 24/7 is a versatile and well-designed aquarium light offering a compelling blend of features and functionality. The 24/7 mode is a standout feature for mimicking natural light cycles, promoting plant growth, and ensuring a healthier tank environment. The remote control is intuitive and user-friendly, providing granular control over light intensity and color spectrum. The light fixture itself is sleek and unobtrusive.
While some modes like ‘Thunder’ may be less practical, the overall functionality more than makes up for it. However, the reviewer did note the somewhat flimsy nature of the mounting system, emphasizing the need for careful handling. Overall, the Finnex Planted+ 24/7 is a strong contender in the planted tank lighting market, delivering excellent value for its price and offering a range of features to satisfy both beginners and experienced aquarists.