Choosing the best side lighting bars for greenhouse tomatoes is essential for maximizing growth and yield. The top picks balance brightness, spectrum, and ease of installation, with VIVOSUN LumaRay LED Grow Light Bars standing out as the overall best for their full-spectrum coverage and durability. The AC Infinity IONBEAM S16 offers a sleek design with high efficiency, while budget-friendly options like the Wiaxulay 16in Grow Light Strip provide reliable performance for smaller setups. Buyers face tradeoffs between cost, coverage area, and light quality. Continue reading for a detailed comparison to help you find the perfect fit for your greenhouse.
Complete the kit
Key Takeaways
- Full-spectrum lighting is critical to mimic natural sunlight and promote healthy tomato growth.
- Longer, more powerful bars tend to offer better coverage but come at a higher cost and increased installation complexity.
- LED options are generally more energy-efficient and durable than fluorescent or T8 styles, especially for continuous use.
- Dimmable models provide better control over light intensity, reducing stress on plants during different growth stages.
- Price often correlates with features like spectrum quality, build durability, and ease of installation—balancing these factors is key.
| VIVOSUN LumaRay LED Grow Light Bars 16” (8-Bar) Full Spectrum Side Lighting |  | Best Overall for Versatile Full-Spectrum Side Lighting | Light Source Type: LED | Power Source: Corded Electric | Light Output: 900 lumens | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| AC Infinity IONBEAM S16 16″ Full Spectrum LED Grow Light Bars |  | Best for Targeted Supplemental Lighting in Grow Tents | Light Source: LED (Samsung LM301H EVO) | Number of Bars: 4 | Bar Length: 16 inches | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Wiaxulay 16in Grow Light Strip for Indoor Plants, 15W Full Spectrum 6000K |  | Best Budget-Friendly Full Spectrum Side Lighting | Light Source Type: LED | Power Source: Corded Electric | Voltage: 5 volts | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| JESLED Waterproof T8 Grow Lights, 4FT 5000K Full Spectrum, 2-Pack |  | Best Waterproof Long-Run Grow Lights for Humid Environments | Length: 4 ft | Color Temperature: 5000K | Wattage: 96 watts | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| LED Grow Light Strips, Full Spectrum 3000K, 3 Head×2 Pack |  | Best Versatile Full Spectrum Light with Multiple Modes | Light Source: LED | Wattage: 15 watts | Color Temperature: 3000K | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| Barrina T8 1FT Grow Light, 5000K Full Spectrum LED Grow Light Strip, 6 Pack |  | Best Value for Versatile Full Spectrum Lighting | Wattage: 15 watts per light (90W total) | Color Temperature: 5000 Kelvin | Number of LEDs: 288 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| KingLED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Natural-Like 5000K Full Spectrum Plant Lights for Indoor Growing, 72W(4 X 18W) High PPFD 4FT LED Grow Light Strips for Seed Starting, Linkable, 4-Pack |  | Best for Focused, High-Intensity Indoor Seed Starting | Light Source Type: LED | Wattage: 72 watts | Mounting Type: Rack Mount | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| FARMLITE Under Canopy LED Grow Light Bars, Full Spectrum Dimmable Supplemental Lighting for Indoor Plants and Grow Tents |  | Best for Under-Canopy Supplemental Lighting in Greenhouses | Light Source Type: LED | Wattage: 120 watts | Number of Light Sources: 2 | VIEW LATEST PRICE | See Our Full Breakdown |
| side lighting bars for greenhouse tomatoe | Wattage | Mounting Type | Color Temperature | Light Source Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VIVOSUN LumaRay LED Grow Light | 50 watts | Pole Mount, Wall Mount | — | LED |
| AC Infinity IONBEAM S16 16" Fu | 15 watts | Magnetic Mount | — | — |
| Wiaxulay 16in Grow Light Strip | — | — | 6000 Kelvin | LED |
| JESLED Waterproof T8 Grow Ligh | 96 watts | Ceiling Mount, Wall Mount, Suspended | 5000K | — |
| LED Grow Light Strips | 15 watts | — | 3000K | — |
| Barrina T8 1FT Grow Light | 15 watts per light (90W total) | Ceiling Mount / Hanging Mount | 5000 Kelvin | — |
| KingLED Grow Lights for Indoor | 72 watts | Rack Mount | 5000 Kelvin | LED |
| FARMLITE Under Canopy LED Grow | 120 watts | Pole Mount | — | LED |
More Details on Our Top Picks
VIVOSUN LumaRay LED Grow Light Bars 16” (8-Bar) Full Spectrum Side Lighting
The VIVOSUN LumaRay LED grow light bars stand out for their full-spectrum light with enhanced red wavelengths, which supports flowering and fruiting—making them ideal for maximizing tomato yields. Their easy installation with magnetic clamps and support for daisy chaining simplifies setup compared to the more limited plug-and-play nature of the JESLED 4FT lights. The remote app control adds convenience for customized lighting schedules. However, needing a separate SGS controller for full app functionality and the 8-bar limit means larger setups might require multiple units, increasing complexity and cost. This pick makes the most sense for growers seeking adaptable, full-spectrum side lighting that can be integrated into more advanced systems.
Pros:- Full-spectrum light with enhanced red wavelengths for optimal flowering
- Easy to install with magnetic clamps and support for daisy chaining
- Remote app control for convenient operation and customization
Cons:- Requires a separate SGS controller for full app functionality
- Limited to 8 light bars, may need multiple units for larger areas
Best for: Growers who want customizable, full-spectrum lighting with remote control and plan to expand their setup.
Not ideal for: Small hobbyists with limited space or budget, since multiple units may be needed for larger areas.
- Light Source Type:LED
- Power Source:Corded Electric
- Light Output:900 lumens
- Mounting Type:Pole Mount, Wall Mount
- Special Features:App Control, Daisy Chain Connectivity
- Wattage:50 watts
- Material:Aluminum
- Item Dimensions:9.5″ L x 4.3″ W x 19.7″ H
Our verdict“Best suited for growers seeking a flexible, full-spectrum side lighting system with expansion capability.”
AC Infinity IONBEAM S16 16″ Full Spectrum LED Grow Light Bars
The AC Infinity IONBEAM S16 set excels at providing intense, full-spectrum light with high efficiency, thanks to Samsung LM301H EVO diodes rated at 3.14 µmol/J—making them more suitable for targeted, supplemental coverage than the larger, more diffuse VIVOSUN bars. Their magnetic mounting and digital controller with ten dimming levels allow precise light adjustments, outperforming basic models like the Wiaxulay strip in control and efficiency. The 15W power per bar limits their use as primary lighting but makes them ideal for boosting existing setups. The main tradeoff involves corded power and limited coverage per unit, which could be a concern for larger grow areas. This choice makes the most sense for growers needing high-quality, adjustable supplemental lighting in confined spaces.
Pros:- Highly efficient Samsung LM301H EVO diodes for maximum light quality
- Magnetic mounting for easy installation on tent frames
- Dimmable with 10 levels and programmable schedule for precise control
Cons:- Only 15W per bar, so unsuitable as main lighting for large plants
- Corded power limits placement flexibility
Best for: Indoor growers using tents or small grow areas wanting precise, efficient supplemental lighting.
Not ideal for: Growers seeking large-scale primary lighting or those who prefer cordless setups for flexibility.
- Light Source:LED (Samsung LM301H EVO)
- Number of Bars:4
- Bar Length:16 inches
- Wattage:15 watts
- Light Output:Maximum 3000 lumens
- Mounting Type:Magnetic Mount
- Special Features:Dimmable, Programmable
- Dimensions:16.02″L x 1.08″W x 0.62″H
Our verdict“Best for growers needing high-efficiency, adjustable supplemental lighting in small or confined spaces.”
Wiaxulay 16in Grow Light Strip for Indoor Plants, 15W Full Spectrum 6000K
The Wiaxulay 16-inch grow light strip offers a simple, budget-conscious solution with full-spectrum white light at 6000K, suitable for all plant stages including tomatoes. Its adjustable brightness and timer enhance usability, comparable to the LED strips like the LED Grow Light Strips, but with a focus on affordability. Its compact size and easy mounting options make it accessible for small setups. The main tradeoff lies in its limited power—just 15W—making it less effective for larger or more demanding plants, and the short cable could restrict placement. Still, this pick provides reliable, full-spectrum light for beginner growers or small, contained environments.
Pros:- Full-spectrum white light suitable across all growth stages
- Adjustable brightness and timer for convenience
- Easy to install with included mounting accessories
Cons:- Limited to 15W, not ideal for large or mature plants
- Short cable length may restrict placement options
Best for: Beginners or hobbyists with small grow spaces looking for an economical, full-spectrum side light.
Not ideal for: Large-scale or high-demand tomato growing where higher wattage and coverage are necessary.
- Light Source Type:LED
- Power Source:Corded Electric
- Voltage:5 volts
- Light Source Wattage:15 watts
- Color Temperature:6000 Kelvin
- Number of Light Sources:4
- Material:Aluminum
- Item Dimensions:21.65″L x 1.97″W x 1.57″H
Our verdict“Best for budget-conscious growers with small setups needing basic, full-spectrum lighting.”
JESLED Waterproof T8 Grow Lights, 4FT 5000K Full Spectrum, 2-Pack
The JESLED 4-foot waterproof grow lights excel in humid, high-mist environments, thanks to their IP65 sealed design, making them more durable than the Wiaxulay strip in damp conditions. Their 96W power output replaces traditional 600W grow lights efficiently, and the internal V-shaped reflector boosts light efficiency by 30%, a feature not present in smaller, less specialized options. The linkable design with comprehensive mounting accessories simplifies setup, especially for larger or perimeter lighting. The main tradeoff is their fixed length and corded power, which can limit placement flexibility. These lights are a smart choice for growers needing reliable, full-spectrum lighting in humid or outdoor settings, where durability matters most.
Pros:- IP65 waterproof and sealed for humid environments
- Energy-efficient with 96W replacing 600W traditional lights
- Linkable with mounting accessories for flexible setup
Cons:- Corded electric only, limiting placement options
- Fixed 4ft length may not suit all configurations
Best for: Growers in humid environments or outdoor greenhouses needing durable, waterproof lighting over long runs.
Not ideal for: Growers seeking highly adjustable or small-scale lighting solutions, as these are fixed-length and more specialized.
- Length:4 ft
- Color Temperature:5000K
- Wattage:96 watts
- Brightness:9600 lm
- Water Resistance:IP65 Waterproof
- Light Source:LED
- Mounting Type:Ceiling Mount, Wall Mount, Suspended
- Warranty:3 years
Our verdict“Ideal for growers in wet or outdoor environments needing durable, full-spectrum lighting over extended areas.”
LED Grow Light Strips, Full Spectrum 3000K, 3 Head×2 Pack
The LED Grow Light Strips 3-head pack provides a full-spectrum, 3000K white light that promotes healthy growth and flowering, similar in purpose to the Wiaxulay model but with more versatility through multiple lighting modes and adjustable brightness. Its compact size and multiple mounting options, including magnets and ties, make it suitable for small to medium indoor setups. The inclusion of multiple lighting modes and timer options offers more control than simpler single-mode lights, but its 15W power output limits its effectiveness for larger plants or extensive coverage. For growers seeking a flexible, multi-mode strip that’s easy to install, this is a solid choice, though it’s less suited for demanding or large-scale tomato cultivation.
Pros:- Full spectrum light promotes healthy growth and flowering
- Multiple lighting modes and adjustable brightness
- Easy to install with various mounting options
Cons:- Limited power output for large or mature plants
- Long-term durability details are unclear
Best for: Indoor growers wanting a multi-mode, adjustable light for seedlings or small plants.
Not ideal for: Large tomato plants or setups requiring high wattage and broad coverage, as this is primarily a supplementary light.
- Light Source:LED
- Wattage:15 watts
- Color Temperature:3000K
- Light Spectrum:Full spectrum (380nm-800nm)
- Dimmable Levels:10
- Timer Options:3/9/12 hours
- Number of LEDs:156
- Mounting Options:Screws, ties, double-sided tape, magnets
Our verdict“Best for growers needing adaptable, multi-mode lighting for small-scale or seedling stages.”
Barrina T8 1FT Grow Light, 5000K Full Spectrum LED Grow Light Strip, 6 Pack
This set of six 1-foot Barrina T8 LED strips stands out for offering full-spectrum 5000K light that supports all stages of tomato growth, from seedling to flowering. Compared with the KingLED strips, these are more affordable in bulk, making them ideal for larger greenhouse setups where budget matters. The V-shaped reflector design enhances efficiency by 17-20%, which helps maximize light delivery without increasing energy costs. However, their lack of water resistance limits use strictly to indoor, dry environments, and the need for special connector cables can complicate installation. Overall, this pack is best suited for growers seeking reliable, full-spectrum lighting with high coverage at a lower price point, but not for those needing outdoor or waterproof solutions.
Pros:- Full-spectrum 5000K light supports all tomato growth stages
- V-shaped reflector boosts efficiency by up to 20%
- Aluminum housing ensures effective heat dissipation
- Easy to install with multiple mounting options (clips, tape, ties)
Cons:- Not water resistant, limiting outdoor or humid use
- Requires special connector cables for linking multiple strips
Best for: Growers with large indoor greenhouse setups seeking cost-effective, full-spectrum lighting for multiple tomato beds.
Not ideal for: Outdoor growers or those needing water-resistant fixtures, as these lights are not water resistant and require special linking cables.
- Wattage:15 watts per light (90W total)
- Color Temperature:5000 Kelvin
- Number of LEDs:288
- Light Source:LED
- Power Source:Corded Electric
- Mounting Type:Ceiling Mount / Hanging Mount
- Water Resistance:Not Water Resistant
- Indoor/Outdoor Usage:Indoor
- Quantity:6-pack
Our verdict“This pack is ideal for budget-conscious growers who need broad, reliable full-spectrum lighting indoors but do not require outdoor waterproof fixtures.”
KingLED Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, Natural-Like 5000K Full Spectrum Plant Lights for Indoor Growing, 72W(4 X 18W) High PPFD 4FT LED Grow Light Strips for Seed Starting, Linkable, 4-Pack
Compared to the Barrina strips, the KingLED 4-pack offers a more focused, high-PPFD light with individual spotlight cups, which directs intensity directly onto seedlings or young tomato plants. This makes it better suited for precise, high-intensity applications like seed starting or small, densely planted greenhouse beds. The included connectors and extension cords facilitate quick setup and daisy chaining, while the 3-year warranty provides peace of mind. Nevertheless, these are less versatile for large-area coverage and are primarily designed for targeted, focused lighting rather than broad coverage. They excel when you need intense, uniform light for seedlings but fall short for multi-row greenhouse lighting where coverage is more critical.
Pros:- High PPFD for dense, focused plant growth
- Individual spotlight cups concentrate light downward
- Easy to daisy-chain and install with included connectors
- Three-year warranty with lifetime customer support
Cons:- Limited coverage area compared to broader strips
- Designed more for seedling stages than full canopy coverage
- Less effective for large-scale greenhouse lighting
Best for: Indoor growers starting seedlings or managing small, high-density tomato plant areas needing intense, focused light.
Not ideal for: Large-scale outdoor greenhouses or growers seeking broad coverage, as these are designed for targeted, high-intensity lighting only.
- Light Source Type:LED
- Wattage:72 watts
- Mounting Type:Rack Mount
- Light Source Special Features:Full Spectrum, Focused Beams
- Color Temperature:5000 Kelvin
- Color Rendering Index:80
- Number of Light Sources:72
- Dimensions:46.77″L x 1.18″W x 0.82″H
- Warranty & Support:3 years
Our verdict“This pick makes the most sense for growers focusing on seedling propagation or small, high-density grow areas that require intense, targeted light.”
FARMLITE Under Canopy LED Grow Light Bars, Full Spectrum Dimmable Supplemental Lighting for Indoor Plants and Grow Tents
The FARMLITE under canopy LED bars are designed specifically to target areas of the tomato canopy that main grow lights often miss. Compared with the more general-purpose Barrina or KingLED strips, these bars excel at boosting yields by illuminating the lower and shaded parts of the plants, which is critical in dense greenhouse environments. The dimmable feature and timer compatibility offer flexible control, and the daisy chaining capability simplifies installation across multiple tent or greenhouse zones. Their power supply placement outside the tent makes setup cleaner, but they are strictly supplemental and require a separate primary grow light to be effective overall. These bars are perfect for growers who want to optimize under-canopy light without overhauling their entire lighting system.
Pros:- Enhances lower canopy illumination for better yields
- Dimmable with timer control for customized light management
- Daisy chain compatible with extension cables for easy setup
- Power supply stays outside the grow tent for safety and convenience
Cons:- Requires a separate main grow light for full coverage
- Designed solely as supplemental lighting, not a primary source
- Dependent on external controls for dimming and timing
Best for: Indoor greenhouse growers seeking to enhance lower canopy light levels and improve yields with adjustable supplemental lighting.
Not ideal for: Growers looking for primary lighting solutions or outdoor applications, as these are specifically designed for indoor, under-canopy use only.
- Light Source Type:LED
- Wattage:120 watts
- Number of Light Sources:2
- Dimensions:23″L x 2″W x 1″H
- Mounting Type:Pole Mount
- Special Features:Dimmable, Daisy Chain
- Extension Cable Length:3.3 ft
Our verdict“This bar set is ideal for growers wanting to optimize under-canopy light levels in indoor greenhouses or tents without replacing existing main grow lights.”
How We Picked
These products were selected based on their suitability for greenhouse tomato cultivation, focusing on performance, spectrum quality, build durability, and ease of use. We prioritized models that offer full-spectrum lighting to support all growth phases, with an emphasis on energy efficiency and longevity. Ease of installation and adaptability to different greenhouse layouts also played a role, along with customer reviews highlighting real-world reliability. The ranking reflects a balance between value and premium features, ensuring options for various budgets and needs.| side lighting bars for greenhouse tomatoe | Mounting Type | Light Source |
|---|---|---|
| VIVOSUN LumaRay LED Grow Light | Pole Mount, Wall Mount | — |
| AC Infinity IONBEAM S16 16" Fu | Magnetic Mount | LED (Samsung LM301H EVO) |
| Wiaxulay 16in Grow Light Strip | — | — |
| JESLED Waterproof T8 Grow Ligh | Ceiling Mount, Wall Mount, Suspended | LED |
| LED Grow Light Strips | — | LED |
| Barrina T8 1FT Grow Light | Ceiling Mount / Hanging Mount | LED |
| KingLED Grow Lights for Indoor | Rack Mount | — |
| FARMLITE Under Canopy LED Grow | Pole Mount | — |
Factors to Consider When Choosing Best Side Lighting Bars For Greenhouse Tomatoes
When selecting side lighting bars for greenhouse tomatoes, several factors influence how well they will perform and fit your setup. Understanding these considerations helps avoid common pitfalls like under- or over-lighting, and ensures you invest in a solution that promotes healthy, vigorous plants without unnecessary expense.Light Spectrum and Intensity
For greenhouse tomatoes, full-spectrum LED bars are ideal as they support all growth stages, from vegetative to fruiting. Look for models with adjustable brightness or dimming features so you can tailor the light intensity to your plants’ needs, preventing stress or stretching. Cheaper options with limited spectrum or fixed output may save money upfront but can hinder plant development over time.
Coverage Area and Size
The length and power of the lighting bars determine how much of your greenhouse they can cover effectively. Longer bars or multiple units are better suited for large setups, but they also require more careful placement to avoid shadows or uneven light distribution. Smaller, more targeted bars work well in confined spaces or for supplementing existing lighting systems.
Energy Efficiency and Durability
LED technology generally offers better energy efficiency and longer lifespan than fluorescent or T8 options, which is important for ongoing greenhouse operations. Consider models with sturdy construction, waterproof or moisture-resistant features, especially if your greenhouse has high humidity. Investing in durable units can reduce replacement and maintenance costs over time.
Ease of Installation and Use
Look for bars that are easy to mount and wire, with adjustable brackets or mounting accessories. Dimmable models and those with smart controls or timers simplify operation, allowing you to optimize lighting without manual adjustments. Complex systems may offer advanced features but could require professional installation or setup.
Price and Value
While higher-priced models often come with superior spectrum control, build quality, and features, they may be unnecessary for smaller or less demanding setups. Conversely, very cheap options might lack durability or effective spectrum coverage. Aim for a balanced investment that aligns with your greenhouse size, crop goals, and budget constraints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular LED strip lights for greenhouse tomatoes?
Standard household LED strips are generally not suitable for greenhouse tomato growing because they lack the full-spectrum, high-intensity light needed for optimal plant development. They also may not be rated for the humidity and temperature conditions typical in greenhouses. Investing in dedicated grow lights ensures your plants receive the proper spectrum, intensity, and durability for healthy growth.
How many side lighting bars do I need for a typical greenhouse?
The number of bars depends on your greenhouse size, crop density, and light coverage area per unit. For small to medium setups, a couple of high-quality, full-spectrum bars might suffice. Larger greenhouses may require multiple units spaced evenly to ensure uniform light distribution. Planning your layout ahead of time helps avoid shadowy spots and uneven growth, critical for maximizing yield.
Are dimmable lighting bars worth the extra cost?
Dimmable options offer significant advantages by allowing you to adjust light intensity according to the plants’ stage of growth or ambient conditions. This flexibility can prevent light stress during sensitive phases and optimize energy use. While they tend to be more expensive initially, the ability to fine-tune lighting often results in healthier plants and better yields over time.
What’s more important: spectrum quality or coverage area?
Both are vital, but spectrum quality generally has a more direct impact on plant health and development. A high-quality full-spectrum light ensures your tomatoes receive all necessary wavelengths, supporting robust growth and fruiting. Adequate coverage area is equally important to avoid uneven lighting, but without proper spectrum, even the best coverage won’t produce optimal results. Striking a balance between the two is key.
Should I prioritize energy efficiency or light intensity?
While energy efficiency reduces operational costs, ensuring sufficient light intensity is critical for healthy tomato growth. In most cases, selecting LEDs with high lumen output and good spectral balance provides the best results, even if they consume slightly more power. However, models that combine high efficiency with strong output are ideal for long-term greenhouse management, especially when running lights for extended periods.
Conclusion
If you are just starting out or managing a smaller greenhouse, the Wiaxulay 16in Grow Light Strip offers reliable performance at a budget-friendly price. For growers seeking a balance of quality and affordability, the Barrina T8 1FT Grow Light provides flexible coverage with good spectrum. Those aiming for professional-grade setups will find the AC Infinity IONBEAM S16 or FARMLITE Under Canopy LED Grow Light Bars best suited for their durability and advanced features. For premium, fully customizable lighting, investing in high-end options like the VIVOSUN LumaRay LED Grow Light Bars makes the most sense. Ultimately, your choice depends on your greenhouse size, budget, and growth goals.
