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Reef aquarium lighting

Choose the footprint and mounting plan before the brand. This cluster turns coverage claims into practical UK shortlists—and keeps assumptions visible.

3 connected guidesUpdated 14 August 2026UK prices

Choose your route

01

Commercial comparison

Best reef aquarium lights in the UK

Five current LED routes compared by claimed spread, power, control, mounting and checked UK price.

↗02

Sizing method

Match a reef light to tank dimensions

A repeatable way to turn tank length, width and water depth into a sensible fixture shortlist.

↗03

Nano decision

Best nano reef lights by tank dimensions

Shortlists for 40–45cm cubes, 50cm footprints and 60cm-wide compact systems.

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THE LIGHTING RULE

Coverage is a rectangle, not a litre rating.

Two tanks can hold the same litres but need different lighting because their length, front-to-back width and water depth differ. Begin with the illuminated footprint, then account for coral placement, shadowing, mounting and the number of fixtures.

START HERE

Measure the tank before comparing models.

The sizing guide explains what each dimension changes and where manufacturer claims stop being enough.

Match light to dimensions →