As an indoor grower, you know how important it is to have the right tools to help your plants thrive. One of the most important tools you can have is a light meter.
Summary
PAR light meters measure the amount of photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) that is present in your grow room. This information is incredibly useful because it allows you to optimize your grow light setup for your specific plants.
In this blog post, we will be reviewing the best PAR light meters on the market in 2023. We’ll also provide a buyer’s guide to help you choose the right one for your needs.
Par light meter reviews
There are a few different types of PAR light meters on the market, but we’ve found the Apogee MQ-500 to be the best overall. It’s a handheld, battery-powered device that’s easy to use, and it gives accurate readings of both PAR and PPFD (photosynthetic photon flux density).
We also like the Atomi Smart PAR Meter, which is a more affordable option that still offers good accuracy. If you’re looking for a PAR light meter that also measures Lux, the Lux Meter M2 from Illuminance Tools is a great choice.
Finally, if you need a PAR light meter that can handle high-intensity lights, such as metal halide or HPS grow lights, we recommend the Apogee SQ-520. It’s more expensive than other options, but it’s built to last and can take accurate readings up to 50,000lux.
Sun System PAR Meter with Remote Sensor
A PAR meter is a device used to measure the Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) emitted by a light source. PAR is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that is useful to plants for photosynthesis.

The Sun System PAR Meter with Remote Sensor is a handheld PAR meter that can be used to measure the PAR output of any grow light, including LED grow lights.
The meter has a remote sensor that can be placed up to 20 feet away from the light source, making it ideal for measuring the PAR output of large grow lights.
The Sun System PAR Meter with Remote Sensor is accurate to within 2% and has a backlit LCD display for easy reading. The meter also features a data-hold function that allows you to take measurements and then view them later. Thermometer runs on a 9V battery and includes a carrying case.
Sun System® PAR Meter with remote sensor measures photosynthetically active radiation (PAR). Use inside with Sun System® grow lights or outside with natural sunlight. Simple and easy to use. Compact size with remote sensor.
Light Meter LM-50KL
To get accurate PAR readings from your LED grow lights, you need a high-quality light meter like the Light Meter LM-50KL. This compact and easy-to-use light meter has a built-in sensor that accurately measures the PAR output of your grow lights. It also has a large LCD display that makes it easy to read the readings.

The Light Meter LM-50KL is one of the most popular PAR light meters on the market. It’s affordable, reliable, and easy to use. If you’re looking for an accurate way to measure the PAR output of your LED grow lights, this is the light meter for you.
Measuring lights source: LED white light and all visible light.
URCERI Handheld Digital Light Meter Ambient Temperature Measurer
This digital light meter by URCERI is a handheld and compact device that is perfect for measuring the ambient temperature around your grow lights. It comes with a large backlit LCD display that makes it easy to read, even in low light conditions.

The device has a built-in sensor that can measure both the intensity and temperature of your grow lights, so you can make sure that your plants are getting the optimal conditions for growth. The meter also has a hold function that allows you to freeze the readings on the screen so you can easily take note of them.
It features a uniquely-designed 4 digital color LCD screen so you can check your readings anytime of the day. You can also easily check if it's running out of juice with the low battery indication or simply enjoy the auto power off function that will be enabled automatically when not in used after 15 minutes.
Hydrofarm LGBQM Quantum PAR Meter

- The Hydrofarm LGBQM Quantum PAR Meter is one of the best PAR light meters on the market. It’s highly accurate and very easy to use. Simply hold the meter up to your grow light and it will instantly give you a reading in PAR (Photosynthetic Active Radiation).
- The LGBQM is a great choice for anyone using LED grow lights, as it’s specifically designed for them. It also has a wide range of uses, such as measuring the light output of HID (high intensity discharge) grow lights and determining the ideal lighting for your plants.
- If you’re serious about getting the most out of your grow lights, then a PAR meter is an essential piece of equipment. The Hydrofarm LGBQM Quantum PAR Meter is one of the best on the market and well worth the investment.
This fully portable handheld PAR meter features our highly accurate, integrated Quantum Sensor that measures PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) flux in wavelengths ranging from 400 to 700 nm. It measures up to 10,000 μmol/s compared with 2,000 μmol/s for other meters on the market.
Conclusion and recommendations on the best plant light meter
After much research and deliberation, we’ve come to the conclusion that the Apogee MQ-500 Full Spectrum Quantum Par Meter is the best plant light meter on the market. It’s accurate, easy to use, and perfect for measuring PAR levels in all types of grow lights, including LED grow lights.
We highly recommend the Apogee MQ-500 Full Spectrum Quantum Par Meter to anyone looking for an accurate and reliable plant light meter.