The short answer
AI Prime 16HD is the value-led compact benchmark. ReefLED G2 60 is the cleanest choice for a compatible Red Sea-style 45–50cm cube. Reef Flare Pro S claims the broadest footprint near this price band. Kessil A360XE prioritises point-source shimmer, while Radion XR15 G6 Pro is the premium flexible-control route. The right answer still depends on tank dimensions and coral placement.
| Light / checked price | Power / claimed footprint | Control | Planning fit / annual maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| AI Prime 16HD Reef £239–£260 | 59W Up to 61 × 61cm; UK sellers commonly narrow this to 50 × 50cm | myAI app; control built in | Compact 40–50cm nano footprint £56.22 electricity |
| Red Sea ReefLED G2 60 £269 | 60W 50 × 50cm test footprint; maximum stated water depth 50cm | ReefBeat app; app-led setup | Simple route for a 45–50cm cube £57.18 electricity |
| Reef Factory Reef Flare Pro S £299 checked; lower sale prices seen | 80W Up to 60 × 60cm, to 60cm depth claimed | Smart Reef app | Wider nano footprint; verify sale stock £76.24 electricity |
| Kessil A360XE Tuna Blue £459.90 | 90W 61 × 61cm mixed reef; 51 × 51cm SPS claim | Manual control; Wi-Fi dongle or controller for programming | Point-source shimmer and optional control £85.77 electricity |
| EcoTech Radion XR15 G6 Pro £464–£465 | 95–105W listed 61 × 61cm recommended; up to 76 × 76cm maximum claim | Mobius app built in | Premium control for 60cm-class footprints £100.08 at 105W electricity |
What the price does not include
Check the tank arm, hanging kit, rail, shade or diffuser before comparing totals. A lower fixture price can lose its advantage when the preferred mount is another £50–£100. Kessil also separates optional programmed control from the light itself, while the other four use their brand apps.
How we calculated electricity
The annual figures show a deliberately conservative maximum-label scenario: rated watts × 10 hours daily × 365 × 26.11p/kWh. Real programmed use is normally lower because channels ramp and may not run at full output. Use the electricity calculator with your actual schedule and tariff.
Sources and limitations
Technical claims were checked against AquaIllumination, Red Sea, Reef Factory, Kessil and EcoTech product information. Price checks included Porton Aquapet, Burscough Aquatics, Finest Aquatics, Watermarque and All Things Aquatic. We have not independently measured PAR, spectrum, fan noise or long-term reliability.