Your old HPS, MH, or fluorescent grow lights are probably costing you a fortune in electricity, running hot enough to stress your plants, and delivering a spectrum that leaves your indoor garden stretching for light or yielding underwhelming results. If you’re tired of high bills, burnt leaves, or lackluster growth, it’s time for an upgrade!Best replacement LEDs for upgrading outdated grow lights
Modern LED replacement bulbs are the game-changer for indoor gardeners. They slash energy use by up to 90%, run cool to the touch, last 25,000+ hours, and provide full-spectrum light that closely mimics natural sunlight for every growth stage—from seedlings to flowering.
In this ultimate 2025 guide, we’ll review the best 10 replacement LED grow light bulbs based on current Amazon best-seller data, customer ratings (4.5+ stars with thousands of reviews), expert tests from sites like Bob Vila and Southern Living, and real performance for houseplants, herbs, veggies, and more. Whether you’re replacing outdated fixtures or turning regular lamps into powerful grow stations, these plug-and-play E26/E27 bulbs will help you grow healthier, happier plants with confidence.
2. Why Upgrade to LED Grow Light Bulbs?
Switching from outdated lights to LEDs offers massive benefits:
- Energy Efficiency — Use 80-90% less power than traditional bulbs while delivering more usable light (higher PPFD).
- Low Heat Output — No more scorching plants or needing extra fans/ventilation.
- Full-Spectrum Options — Balanced light (400-700nm) for all stages: veg (blue-heavy) and bloom (red-heavy).
- Easy Upgrade — Standard E26 base fits most household lamps, sockets, and fixtures—no rewiring needed.
- Longevity & Savings — 25,000-50,000 hour lifespan means fewer replacements and lower bills.
Key factors to consider:
- Wattage & Equivalence — Look for 9-36W LEDs replacing 60-400W old bulbs.
- Spectrum — Full-spectrum (5000-6500K) for general growth; some add red/IR for flowering.
- PPFD & Coverage — Higher PPFD = better penetration; coverage depends on bulb strength and height.
- Base Type — E26 (standard) for easy fit.
- Extras — Dimmable, waterproof, or high-PPFD models for advanced setups.
This guide is perfect for beginners, houseplant enthusiasts, hydroponic growers, or anyone ditching old tech for better results.
3. How We Selected the Top 10
We analyzed 2025 Amazon best-sellers, top-rated products (4.5+ stars, thousands of reviews), and recommendations from trusted sources like Bob Vila, Southern Living, and Grow Weed Easy. Priority went to:
- Full-spectrum performance for all plant stages.
- Energy efficiency and low heat.
- Value, durability, and real-user success stories.
- Compatibility with standard sockets for easy upgrades.
Prices fluctuate—check Amazon for latest deals. All are highly rated and popular for indoor growing.
4. Top 10 Replacement LED Grow Light Bulbs – Detailed Reviews
Quick Comparison Table
| Rank | Product Name | Wattage / Equivalent | Current Price Range | Avg. Rating (Reviews) | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SANSI 24W/36W Full-Spectrum Bulb | 24-36W / 300-400W | $25–$40 | 4.7 (10,000+) | Highest PPFD & durability |
| 2 | Briignite A19 Full-Spectrum (11W) | 11W / 100W | $15–$25 (pack) | 4.6 (15,000+) | Best budget high-lumen |
| 3 | GE Grow Light BR30 Balanced Spectrum | 9-16W / 65-100W | $15–$30 (2-pack) | 4.6 (8,000+) | Natural look & even coverage |
| 4 | SANSI 36W PAR38 High-Power Bulb | 36W / 400W | $35–$45 | 4.7 (5,000+) | Intense for larger areas |
| 5 | Active Grow T5 LED Tubes (Replacement) | 24W / 54W | $30–$50 (pack) | 4.6 (3,000+) | Perfect fluorescent swap |
| 6 | MILYN 30W Full-Spectrum Bulb | 30W / 300W | $25–$35 | 4.6 (4,000+) | Great for flowering/veggies |
| 7 | Norb Tropic A19 Full-Spectrum | 12W / 100W | $20–$30 | 4.7 (2,000+) | Ideal for tropical plants |
| 8 | GulitLum 18W High-Chip Bulb | 18W / 150W | $18–$25 | 4.6 (3,000+) | Bright & affordable |
| 9 | CalKoo 12W Adjustable Full-Spectrum | 12W / 90W | $20–$30 | 4.7 (1,500+) | Compact & dimmable |
| 10 | BestVA/Best to Buy PAR38 Full-Spectrum | 30W / 300W | $25–$35 | 4.6 (2,500+) | Bloom-boosting red focus |
1. SANSI 24W/36W Full-Spectrum LED Grow Light Bulb (Top Overall Pick)
Current Price: ~$25–$40 (depending on wattage; check Amazon for packs).
Compelling Description: The SANSI 24W or 36W bulb stands out as the gold standard for upgrading outdated grow lights. Its patented ceramic heat sink technology dissipates heat efficiently, allowing higher output without burning plants or your fingers. Emitting a powerful full-spectrum light (400-780nm) with exceptional PPFD (photosynthetic photon flux density), this bulb turns any standard lamp into a professional-grade grow station, delivering results that rival much larger fixtures.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Full-spectrum sunlight-like light (5000K-6500K) for all stages.
- Extremely high PPFD for deep penetration (ideal for dense foliage).
- Ceramic construction for superior heat dissipation and 25,000+ hour lifespan.
- E26 base, energy-saving (uses ~80% less power than old bulbs).
- No fan, silent operation.
Pros:
- Incredible light intensity for the wattage.
- Runs cool even after hours.
- Lifetime free bulb replacement warranty on some models.
- Proven results for houseplants, veggies, and cannabis.
Cons:
- Slightly higher upfront cost than budget options.
- Very bright—may need dimming for sensitive seedlings.
Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.7/5 from over 10,000 reviews. Users rave: “My monstera and pothos exploded with new growth—replaced my old fluorescents and never looked back!”
Why It’s a Good Choice: Drops energy use dramatically while providing professional-level light; perfect for upgrading inefficient setups.
Ideal Use Case / Who Should Buy It: Serious indoor gardeners with multiple plants or larger shelves who want maximum growth without heat issues.
4. Top 10 Replacement LED Grow Light Bulbs – Detailed Reviews (Continued)
2. Briignite A19 Full-Spectrum LED Grow Light Bulb (Best Budget High-Lumen Option)
Current Price: ~$15–$25 (often sold in 3-6 packs; check Amazon for current deals).
Compelling Description: The Briignite A19 is a wallet-friendly powerhouse that punches way above its price tag. This compact full-spectrum bulb delivers bright, natural-looking white light (5000K) with hidden red and blue wavelengths for optimal photosynthesis, making it an effortless upgrade from old incandescent or fluorescent bulbs. It’s perfect for turning everyday desk lamps or floor lamps into effective grow stations without any harsh purple glow—your plants thrive while your room stays aesthetically pleasing.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Full-spectrum (400-700nm) with balanced red/blue peaks for all growth stages.
- 11W power draw (equivalent to 100W incandescent) with 1000+ lumens.
- 180-degree beam angle for wide coverage.
- E26 standard base; energy-efficient and cool-running.
- Long 25,000+ hour lifespan.
Pros:
- Extremely affordable, especially in multi-packs.
- Natural white light—doesn’t look like a “grow light.”
- Excellent for seedlings, houseplants, and small herb gardens.
- Thousands of positive reviews confirm fast growth results.
Cons:
- Lower PPFD than higher-wattage options (best for close-range use).
- Not ideal for very large or dense plant setups.
Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.6/5 from over 15,000 reviews. Common praise: “These bulbs transformed my sad pothos into a lush jungle—cheap and super effective!”
Why It’s a Good Choice: Offers incredible value for upgrading outdated lights; saves money on energy while delivering proven results for beginners.
Ideal Use Case / Who Should Buy It: Budget-conscious houseplant lovers or anyone starting seeds in small spaces who wants easy, discreet upgrades.
3. GE Grow Light BR30 Balanced Spectrum LED Bulb (Excellent Natural-Looking Option)
Current Price: ~$15–$30 (often in 2-packs; check Amazon).
Compelling Description: The GE BR30 stands out for its subtle, daylight-balanced spectrum that looks like regular home lighting while secretly supercharging plant growth. This floodlight-style bulb provides even coverage with a pleasing white glow (no purple tint), making it ideal for living rooms, offices, or anywhere you want grow lights that blend in seamlessly. It’s a direct replacement for old BR30 fluorescents or incandescents, offering better efficiency and plant-focused light without the heat.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Balanced full-spectrum (blue-heavy for veg + red for bloom).
- 9-16W options (65-100W equivalent) with high PPF output.
- Wide flood beam for uniform coverage.
- E26 base; low heat and 25,000-hour lifespan.
- Eye-friendly natural appearance.
Pros:
- Blends perfectly into home decor.
- Great for seeds, greens, and flowering plants.
- Reliable brand with consistent performance.
- Low energy use and no fan noise.
Cons:
- Slightly lower intensity than high-PPFD models like SANSI.
- Best for medium-sized setups.
Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.6/5 from over 8,000 reviews. Users say: “My herbs and veggies love this—looks like normal light but my plants are exploding!”
Why It’s a Good Choice: Perfect for upgrading old lights in visible areas; provides professional results without sacrificing aesthetics.
Ideal Use Case / Who Should Buy It: Home gardeners who want grow lights that don’t scream “grow light” and work well in living spaces.
4. SANSI 36W PAR38 High-Power LED Grow Light Bulb (B. est for Larger Coverage)
Current Price: ~$35–$45.
Compelling Description: For those needing more punch, the SANSI 36W PAR38 delivers massive light output in a focused beam. With its advanced ceramic heat sink and optical lens design, it achieves incredibly high PPFD levels for deep canopy penetration—ideal for replacing old 400W HPS or MH bulbs in larger shelves or tents. It runs remarkably cool and provides true full-spectrum sunlight simulation for explosive growth.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Ultra-high PPFD with full-spectrum (400-780nm).
- 36W (400W equivalent) with 120° wide beam.
- Waterproof IP54 rating on some models.
- Ceramic tech for superior heat management.
- E26/E27 base.
Pros:
- Professional-grade intensity for bigger plants.
- Extremely durable with long lifespan.
- Great for flowering and fruiting stages.
- Lifetime warranty on select models.
Cons:
- Higher price point.
- Very bright—may need height adjustment.
Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.7/5 from over 5,000 reviews. Feedback: “Replaced my old HPS and my tomatoes are huge—runs cool and saves so much power!”
Why It’s a Good Choice: Massive upgrade for outdated high-wattage lights; delivers pro results in a simple bulb form.
Ideal Use Case / Who Should Buy It: Growers with medium-large setups or fruiting plants who need intense, penetrating light.
5. Active Grow T5 LED Tubes (Best for Replacing Fluorescent Strips)
Current Price: $79.99
Compelling Description: If your old fluorescent T5 or T8 shop lights are dimming or flickering, Active Grow’s LED tubes are the perfect drop-in replacement. These full-spectrum tubes provide even, high-output light across long fixtures without the mercury or ballast hassle—great for shelves, propagation stations, or multi-tier grows.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Full-spectrum 5000K-6500K for veg and bloom.
- 24W (replaces 54W fluorescent).
- Plug-and-play with existing T5 fixtures.
- No ballast needed; instant on.
- 50,000+ hour lifespan.
Pros:
- Easy retrofit for fluorescent setups.
- Uniform light distribution.
- Energy savings and cooler operation.
- Excellent for seedlings and clones.
Cons:
- Requires compatible fixture.
- Less focused than bulb options.
Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.6/5 from over 3,000 reviews. “Swapped my old T5s—plants love the brighter, cooler light!”
Why It’s a Good Choice: Seamless upgrade for linear fluorescent systems; boosts performance instantly.
Ideal Use Case / Who Should Buy It: Users with existing T5/T8 fixtures wanting modern LED efficiency.
4. Top 10 Replacement LED Grow Light Bulbs – Detailed Reviews (Continued)
6. MILYN 30W Full-Spectrum LED Grow Light Bulb (Best for Flowering & Veggies)
Current Price: ~$25–$35 (often available in 2- or 4-packs; check Amazon for deals).
Compelling Description: The MILYN 30W bulb is a high-output, full-spectrum workhorse designed specifically for growers who want robust vegetative growth and explosive flowering results. Packed with 120 high-efficiency LEDs, it delivers a powerful blend of blue, red, and white light (400-700nm) with extra emphasis on the red spectrum for bloom phase. This makes it an outstanding replacement for outdated 300W HPS or MH bulbs—offering similar (or better) yields with drastically lower energy use, minimal heat, and no need for heavy ballasts or reflectors.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Full-spectrum with enhanced red (660nm) for flowering and fruiting.
- 30W actual draw (300W equivalent) with high PPFD output.
- 120° wide beam angle for excellent coverage.
- E26 standard base; runs cool and silent.
- 50,000-hour lifespan with 3-year warranty.
Pros:
- Outstanding performance during flowering and fruiting stages.
- Very high lumen and PPFD for the price.
- Durable build quality with good heat dissipation.
- Thousands of users report massive plant size increases.
Cons:
- Slightly warmer white light (may not be as “natural” looking as some).
- Bright—best used at 18–24 inches above canopy.
Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.6/5 from over 4,000 reviews. Popular comment: “Swapped my old 300W HPS for this—my tomatoes and peppers are huge and flowering like crazy. So much cooler and cheaper to run!”
Why It’s a Good Choice: Provides professional flowering performance in a simple, affordable bulb format—ideal for upgrading power-hungry traditional lights.
Ideal Use Case / Who Should Buy It: Vegetable, fruit, or cannabis growers focused on the flowering stage who want maximum bud/fruit production without high electricity costs.
7. Norb Tropic A19 Full-Spectrum LED Grow Light Bulb (Best for Tropical Houseplants)
Current Price: ~$20–$30.
Compelling Description: The Norb Tropic is engineered specifically for tropical and foliage houseplants that thrive under warm, sunlight-like conditions. Its unique 4000K–5000K full-spectrum output mimics the natural light of a tropical rainforest—rich in red and far-red wavelengths that encourage lush, compact growth and vibrant colors. This bulb is a fantastic upgrade from old CFLs or weak LEDs, giving your monstera, fiddle-leaf fig, or philodendron the light they crave without scorching leaves or looking unnatural.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Warm full-spectrum tuned for tropicals (high red/far-red ratio).
- 12W (100W equivalent) with 1200+ lumens.
- 180° beam angle for broad coverage.
- E26 base; extremely low heat.
- 30,000-hour lifespan.
Pros:
- Creates beautiful, natural-looking plant growth.
- Perfect color rendering for foliage plants.
- Discreet and eye-friendly in living spaces.
- Highly praised by houseplant communities.
Cons:
- Lower intensity than high-wattage options (best for medium-sized plants).
- Not optimized for heavy fruiting/vegetable production.
Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.7/5 from over 2,000 reviews. Users love it: “My monstera has never looked better—new leaves every week and no stretching!”
Why It’s a Good Choice: Tailored spectrum delivers exceptional results for popular houseplants while upgrading outdated lighting discreetly.
Ideal Use Case / Who Should Buy It: Houseplant enthusiasts growing large tropicals, aroids, or foliage plants who want healthy, compact growth in home environments.
8. GulitLum 18W High-Chip LED Grow Light Bulb (Bright & Affordable All-Rounder)
Current Price: ~
Compelling Description: The GulitLum 18W bulb packs an impressive 120 high-efficiency LED chips into a compact A19 form factor, delivering bright, full-spectrum light at a budget price. It’s a direct upgrade for old 150W incandescent or fluorescent bulbs, providing strong vegetative and early flowering support with excellent coverage and minimal heat—making it a favorite for small to medium indoor gardens.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Full-spectrum (380-800nm) with balanced red/blue.
- 18W (150W equivalent) with high lumen output.
- 120° beam for wide, even distribution.
- E26 base; cool and silent operation.
- 50,000-hour lifespan.
Pros:
- Outstanding value for the light output.
- Very bright for the wattage.
- Reliable performance across all growth stages.
- Great multi-pack pricing.
Cons:
- Not as intense as 30W+ models for large setups.
- Basic design without extras like dimming.
Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.6/5 from over 3,000 reviews. Feedback: “These bulbs are amazing—my seedlings and herbs are thriving and it barely uses any electricity!”
Why It’s a Good Choice: Delivers strong, reliable performance at a rock-bottom price—perfect for upgrading multiple old fixtures affordably.
Ideal Use Case / Who Should Buy It: Beginners or budget growers with small to medium shelves, seed starts, or herb gardens.
9. CalKoo 12W Adjustable Full-Spectrum LED Grow Light Bulb (Best Compact & Dimmable)
Current Price: ~$20–$30.
Compelling Description: The CalKoo 12W bulb offers flexibility in a tiny package. With a built-in dimmer switch and full-spectrum output, you can easily adjust intensity from seedling to flowering stages—all in one bulb. It’s an ideal upgrade for small lamps or tight spaces, providing targeted light without overwhelming delicate plants.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Dimmable full-spectrum (6000K).
- 12W (90W equivalent) with focused beam.
- E26 base; ultra-low heat.
- 30,000+ hour lifespan.
Pros:
- Adjustable brightness for every stage.
- Compact size fits anywhere.
- Great for sensitive plants.
- Good value for dimmable feature.
Cons:
- Lower overall output than higher-wattage bulbs.
- Dimmer is on-bulb (not remote).
Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.7/5 from over 1,500 reviews. “Love being able to dim it for my seedlings—perfect little grow light!”
Why It’s a Good Choice: Adds control and versatility to outdated setups without needing expensive controllers.
Ideal Use Case / Who Should Buy It: Small-space growers, beginners, or anyone with delicate seedlings/clones who want adjustable light.
10. BestVA / Best to Buy PAR38 Full-Spectrum LED Grow Light Bulb (Bloom-Boosting Red Focus)
Current Price: ~$25–$35.
Compelling Description: The BestVA PAR38 is a red-heavy full-spectrum bulb designed to push plants into heavy flowering and fruiting. Its powerful 30W output with dominant 660nm red LEDs makes it an excellent replacement for old bloom-stage HPS lights—delivering bigger buds and higher yields with far less heat and power consumption.
Key Features & Benefits:
- Full-spectrum with strong red emphasis.
- 30W (300W equivalent) PAR38 focused beam.
- High PPFD for dense canopies.
- E26 base; cool-running.
Pros:
- Excellent for late veg and flowering.
- High yield potential.
- Affordable for bloom boost.
Cons:
- More red tint (less natural looking).
- Best paired with blue-heavy bulbs for full cycle.
Amazon Customer Ratings & Reviews: 4.6/5 from over 2,500 reviews. “My cannabis flowered like crazy—huge buds and no heat issues!”
Why It’s a Good Choice: Targeted spectrum maximizes bloom results when upgrading traditional flowering lights.
Ideal Use Case / Who Should Buy It: Flowering-focused growers (veggies, fruits, or cannabis) who want to boost yields in the final stages.
5. Side-by-Side Comparison Table
| Rank | Product Name | Wattage / Equivalent | Current Price Range | Avg. Rating (Reviews) | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | SANSI 24W/36W Full-Spectrum Bulb | 24-36W / 300-400W | $25–$40 | 4.7 (10,000+) | Highest PPFD & durability |
| 2 | Briignite A19 Full-Spectrum (11W) | 11W / 100W | $15–$25 (pack) | 4.6 (15,000+) | Best budget high-lumen |
| 3 | GE Grow Light BR30 Balanced Spectrum | 9-16W / 65-100W | $15–$30 (2-pack) | 4.6 (8,000+) | Natural look & even coverage |
| 4 | SANSI 36W PAR38 High-Power Bulb | 36W / 400W | $35–$45 | 4.7 (5,000+) | Intense for larger areas |
| 5 | Active Grow T5 LED Tubes | 24W / 54W | $30–$50 (pack) | 4.6 (3,000+) | Perfect fluorescent swap |
| 6 | MILYN 30W Full-Spectrum Bulb | 30W / 300W | $25–$35 | 4.6 (4,000+) | Great for flowering/veggies |
| 7 | Norb Tropic A19 Full-Spectrum | 12W / 100W | $20–$30 | 4.7 (2,000+) | Ideal for tropical plants |
| 8 | GulitLum 18W High-Chip Bulb | 18W / 150W | $18–$25 | 4.6 (3,000+) | Bright & affordable |
| 9 | CalKoo 12W Adjustable Full-Spectrum | 12W / 90W | $20–$30 | 4.7 (1,500+) | Compact & dimmable |
| 10 | BestVA PAR38 Full-Spectrum | 30W / 300W | $25–$35 | 4.6 (2,500+) | Bloom-boosting red focus |
6. Buying Guide & FAQs
Quick Installation Tips for Upgrading
Upgrading to LED grow light bulbs is incredibly simple—no electrician required:
- Check your existing fixture or lamp has an E26/E27 socket (standard household size).
- Remove the old bulb and screw in the new LED.
- Position the bulb 12–24 inches above plants (adjust based on wattage and plant sensitivity).
- Use a timer for 12–18 hours of light per day depending on growth stage.
- For larger areas, combine multiple bulbs or use reflective surfaces to maximize coverage.
Coverage Guidelines
- Small setups (1–4 plants): 1–2 × 12–18W bulbs
- Medium shelves (4–10 plants): 2–4 × 18–30W bulbs
- Larger areas/tents: 1–2 × 36W high-PPFD bulbs or multiple lower-wattage ones
Spectrum Explained
- Veg stage (seedlings/clones): Prefer blue-heavy (5000–6500K) for compact, strong stems.
- Flowering/fruiting: Red-heavy (3000–4000K + 660nm) for bigger buds and yields.
- Full-spectrum (most of our picks): Balanced for the entire cycle.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Placing bulbs too close (can cause light burn—start higher and lower gradually).
- Using regular household LEDs (they lack the right spectrum).
- Forgetting to match wattage to plant needs (too weak = stretching; too strong = burn).
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these safe for all plants? Yes—full-spectrum LEDs are gentle and mimic sunlight. Start at recommended distances and monitor for stress.
How long do these LEDs last? Most last 25,000–50,000 hours (5–10+ years of typical use), far outlasting old bulbs.
Do they work in regular household lamps? Absolutely! As long as the socket is E26/E27, they fit perfectly.
Will they help my plants grow faster/better? Thousands of reviews confirm yes—users report faster growth, bigger yields, and healthier plants compared to old lights.
Are they dimmable? Some (like CalKoo) are; most aren’t. Use a separate dimmer switch if needed.
7. Conclusion
Upgrading your outdated grow lights to modern LED replacement bulbs is one of the smartest moves any indoor gardener can make. You’ll enjoy dramatically lower electricity bills, cooler operation, longer bulb life, and—most importantly—healthier, more productive plants.
Our top overall pick is the SANSI 24W/36W for its unbeatable intensity and durability, but every bulb on this list delivers excellent value and proven results. Whether you’re a houseplant lover, veggie grower, or serious indoor cultivator, there’s a perfect LED upgrade waiting for you.
Ready to transform your indoor garden? Click the Amazon links above, grab your favorite bulb (or a multi-pack for even better savings), and watch your plants thrive like never before!
Happy growing—and thank you for reading! 🌱✨
