LED Grow Lights
Mars Hydro TS1000 vs Spider Farmer SF1000
Detailed comparison of the two most popular budget LED grow lights
Our Pick:Spider Farmer SF1000— Better build quality with MeanWell driver and Samsung LM301B diodes justify the $20 premium for serious growers
Choosing between the Mars Hydro TS1000 and Spider Farmer SF1000 is one of the most common decisions for beginner growers setting up their first 2x2 tent. Both lights are excellent choices, but they take different approaches: Mars Hydro prioritizes raw power and value, while Spider Farmer focuses on premium components and efficiency.
Mars Hydro TS1000 LED Grow Light
4.7
$89.99
Budget-conscious growers who want maximum value
Check Price on AmazonOur Recommendation
Spider Farmer SF1000 LED Grow Light
4.8
$109.99
Growers who prioritize quality components and efficiency
Check Price on AmazonSpecifications Comparison
| Specification | Mars Hydro TS1000 | Spider Farmer SF1000 |
|---|---|---|
| Actual Wattage | 150W actual draw | 100W actual draw |
| Flower Coverage | 2.5x2.5 ft (flower) | 2x2 ft (flower) |
| LED Diodes | Epistar SMD LEDs | Samsung LM301B |
| Driver | Non-branded driver | MeanWell driver |
| PPFD Center | 743 μmol/m²/s @ 12" | 634 μmol/m²/s @ 12" |
| Warranty | 5 years | 5 years |
| Dimmable | Yes (0-100%) | Yes (0-100%) |
| Weight | 5.95 lbs | 4.4 lbs |
Pros & Cons
Mars Hydro TS1000
Pros
- Lowest price in this comparison
- Excellent 5-year warranty
- Daisy chain capability
- Good light uniformity
Cons
- Lower quality diodes than competitors
- Non-branded driver (reliability unknown)
- Slightly lower efficiency
Spider Farmer SF1000
Pros
- Premium Samsung LM301B diodes
- Highly reliable MeanWell driver
- Better energy efficiency
- Lighter weight, easier to hang
Cons
- $20 more expensive
- Lower wattage (may limit yield)
- Slightly smaller coverage area
The Verdict
Both lights will successfully grow cannabis in a 2x2 tent. If you're on a tight budget and want to maximize your initial investment, the Mars Hydro TS1000 offers more wattage for less money. However, if you can stretch your budget by $20, the Spider Farmer SF1000's premium Samsung diodes and reliable MeanWell driver make it the smarter long-term investment. For most growers, we recommend the Spider Farmer SF1000.
Mars Hydro TS1000
$89.99
Buy Now
Spider Farmer SF1000
$109.99
Buy Now