best-light-meter-for-plants

Top 10 Best Light Meter For Plants In 2023

Light meter is a great tool to provide extra assistance to your beloved plants. Plants need light to grow and the digital light meter helps in measuring illumination and brightness of the light that your plants are getting. It is like an incredible magic wand to make your houseplants grow. There are tons of light meters available in the market that come with different features, ranges, and prices.

When it comes to the health and growth of your houseplants you might find yourself in the middle of nowhere to find one best that can fulfill the needs of your plants. To help you out and make your money worth we have come up with the 10 best light meters for plants that are going to help your plants. With a thorough discussion of their features and benefits, you will be able to get the one suited for your plant’s concern.

Top 10 Best Light Meter For Plants In 2023

ImageProduct NamePrice On Amazon
best-overall-drmeter-lx1330b-digital-illuminance-light
Best Overall

Dr.meter Digital Illuminance Light Meter
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Best For Color LCD Screen Light Meter Digital Illuminance Meter Handheld Ambient Temperature Measurer
Best For Color LCD Screen

URCERI Digital Illuminance Meter
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Best Light Meter for all-in-one 4-in-1 Soil Moisture Meter, Digital Plant TemperatureSoil MoisturePH MeterSunlight IntensityEnvironment Humidity Backlight LCD display Soil Test Meter
Best Light Meter for all-in-one

EEEkit Sunlight Intensity Test Meter
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Best Digital Illuminance Light Meter BTMETER BT-881D Digital Illuminance Light Meter
Best Digital Illuminance Light Meter

BTMETER Light Meter
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Best For Wide Measurement Range Digital Illuminance Light Meters For Indoor Plants And Grow Lights, VA High Definition Display Multicolors Light Meter
Best For Wide Measurement Range

Cresea Products Light Meters
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Best Multifunctional Light Meter Digital Light Meters AP-8801C Light Meter for Plants Measure Light
Best Multifunctional Light Meter

AOPUTTRIVER Digital Light Meters
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Best For All Indoor Plants Upgraded Quantum PAR Meter - High Precision, Grow Light meter, Indoor Plants meter
Best For All Indoor Plants

Quantum PAR Meter
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Best For Rotatable Detector AIOMEST AI-881E Digital Light Meter, Handheld Foot Candle Meter
Best For Rotatable Detector

AIOMEST Digital Light Meter
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Best performance light meter Wintact Digital Illuminance Light Meter Handheld with Thermometer Ambient
Best performance light meter

Wintact Digital Illuminance Light Meter
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Best for Clear Reading Display BTMETER Digital Illuminance Light Meter
Best for Clear Reading Display

BTMETER Digital Illuminance Light Meter
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1. Best Overall: Dr.meter LX1330B Digital Illuminance Light Meter

best-overall-drmeter-lx1330b-digital-illuminance-light

Specification

  • Brand: Dr.meter
  • Display: 3-1/2 digit 18mm LCD
  • Ranges: 0.1-200/2,000/20,000/200,000 Lux
  • Accuracy: ±3% ±10 digits (0-20,000 lux) / ±5% ±10 digits (over 20,000 Lux)
  • Sampling rate: 2-3 times per second
  • Operating temperature: 32-104 degrees F (0-40 degrees C)
  • Measurement System: Metric
  • Battery Cell Type: Zinc Carbon

Description

Dr. Meter LX1330B Digital Illuminance Light Meter is one of the most widely used, affordable, and dependable options for all. With High-quality digital illuminance, higher accuracy rate, and convenient switches this is the best overall light meter.

Features

  • Structure: This light meter has a plastic housing along with a removable silicon grip case that makes holding very easy. The plastic fold-out stand adds an extra feature to the body that allows additional ease of use. This device operates through the Battery and comes with a screwdriver to remove the battery case when needed.
  • Digital display: This light meter has a digital display ranging from 0 to 20000-foot candles or 0 to 200000 lux. This lets you have clear readable information. It also has an over-range indicator.
  • 4 range settings: This light meter has 4 range settings that are 0/200/2,000/20,000/200,000 Lux. This gives you dynamic ranging ability. This can easily be accessed by four buttons on the light meter body, you can toggle between foot candles and lux too.
  • Errors: This light meter has a probability of 3% errors for readings below 2000-foot candles and approximately 5% errors for readings over 2000-foot candles.

How to use

  1. Turn on the power button.
  2. Select your preferred mode.
  3. Hold the sensor in the direction of light above your plant.
  4. Do this when your plants are getting light.

Expert Verdict

I have been growing indoor plants, especially orchids for years. Since these plants are very sensitive to light I had to be very careful. I was always in search of a light meter so the plants would not be deprived of light but since almost every light meter with four settings was very expensive I could not get any. At the edge of giving up on the expanse I found this one and it has all the features I wanted. This can detect a higher range of light than I expected and the price point is just right for me. since the day I got it, I am using it and have been using it on my plants. Now I can measure the amount of light my orchids are getting and I have noticed they were getting less light which is why I was not able to get the expected amount of flowers even though I was taking care of every aspect. Now I manage light and since then I have been able to grow perfect orchid trees!

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Separate sensor
Budget-friendly
Folding stand

2. Best For Color LCD Screen: Light Meter Digital Illuminance Meter Handheld Ambient Temperature Measurer

Best For Color LCD Screen Light Meter Digital Illuminance Meter Handheld Ambient Temperature Measurer

Specification

  • Brand: URCERI
  • Display: 4 digital color LCD display
  • Measuring range: 0~200,000 lux, 0 ~ 20,000 Fc
  • Resolution: <1000: 0.1; >1000: 1
  • Accuracy: ±3% rdg ± 8 dgts (<10,000 Lux), ±4% rdg ±10 dgts (>10,000 Lux)
  • Spectral response: CIE photopic (CIE human eye response curve)
  • Spectral accuracy: CIE V (λ) function (f1′ ≤ 6%, f2′ ≤ 2%)
  • Auto power off: 15mins when not in use.
  • Over range indication: LCD displays “-OL-” or “-LO-“
  • Sampling rate: twice/sec
  • Photodetector: silicon photodiode with spectral response filter
  • Power supply: 3 x 1.5V AAA batteries
  • Battery life: At least 60 hours
  • Dimension (L*W*H): 174.5*56*30.5mm

Description

Measure every shred of light with the high-performance Light Meter Digital Illuminance Meter Handheld Ambient Temperature Measurer. This is the best color LCD display since it has 4 digital colors, you can have the flexibility to check your readings anytime you want.

Features

  • Versatile application: This compact lightweight light meter has versatile applications wherever you need it. This light meter isn’t limited to the use in schools, offices, or houses but goes beyond that. You can use this light meter for any of the purposes of your choice.
  • Easy to use: This light meter has been designed with 4 digital color LCD screens. With all the colors you are able to read your screen any time of the day. This light meter has an auto-off system that allows auto turning off after not being in use for 15 minutes. You can check out the display even when you are running out of battery.
  • Accuracy and fast response system: This light meter gives you highly accurate results and it can cover measures ranging up to 200000 lux. Also with the fast response system, you can get faster reading without any hassle.

How to use

  1. Turn the device on with the power button
  2. Set the mode
  3. Place the sensor on top of the leaves in the direction of light

Expert Verdict

Growing house plants are not easy and they need extra care in everything. I have plenty of houseplants and pretty sensitive ones. I have already tried several light meters since to measure accurate light measurement in my plants. But since I bought this light meter, I started to lose fewer plants and see fewer burned leaves which only indicates the light meter was giving accurate readings! It has proven useful on rainy and on the sunniest days. I just love how easily I can use this and since this is not too heavy I do not feel like carrying a bulk around. This one is handy and the display is super vibrant even in sunlight. I am not really a tech nerd but what I have learned about using this machine in my plants is this can actually have the lowest ranges of light. Using this one in my backyard plants was really easy because of the vibrant display, so if you are someone trying to find a light meter that would give you an accurate reading and has a really vibrant display to work on a sunny day then go for this one without a doubt.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Vibrant displayNo flash
Accuracy
Versatile application

3. Best Light Meter for all-in-one: 4-in-1 Soil Moisture Meter, Digital Plant Temperature/Soil Moisture/PH Meter/Sunlight Intensity/Environment Humidity Backlight LCD display Soil Test Meter

Best Light Meter for all-in-one 4-in-1 Soil Moisture Meter, Digital Plant TemperatureSoil MoisturePH MeterSunlight IntensityEnvironment Humidity Backlight LCD display Soil Test Meter

Specification

  • Brand: EEEkit
  • Features: accurate& reliable
  • PH: 3.5 ~ 9.0 (Display Resolution 0.5)
  • Moisture: DRY+, DRY, NOR, WET, WET+
  • Soil Temperature: -9℃ ~ +50℃/16℉ ~ 122℉
  • Sunlight: LOW-, LOW, LOW+, NOR-, NOR, NOR+, HGH-, HGH, HGH+

Description

4-in-1 Soil Moisture Meter, Digital Plant Temperature/Soil Moisture/PH Meter/Sunlight Intensity/Environment Humidity Backlight LCD display Soil Test Mete has been recognized by professional growers because of the fast accurate reading. The multipurpose use of this machine makes it the best light meter for all in one.

Features

  • All in one: This is one of the best meters out there that can be used for various purposes in your gardening. almost all the necessary measurements can be done by this one. this meter can measure soil moisture, pH level, temperature, and sunlight. This helps you to take care of your plants and cuts the cost of different tools.
  • Catchy LCD: This soil tester has a large display to see the data clearly. Also having a green backlight helps to see and read the parameters accurately even in sunlight. Also, it has a special mechanism to alert when the battery is low.
  • Easy to use: This machine is extremely easy to use. You just need to plug the probe into the soil and just wait for 10 seconds and you will get the necessary data. You can get the data almost immediately. For the cleaning, you can just wipe the probe and remove all the soil.
  • Quick and accurate: This machine has been trusted by growers for the accuracy and quick measurement of readings. Through this meter, it is very easy to take care of plants from every aspect.

How to use

  1. Remove the top plug of the probe
  2. Insert the probe into the soil
  3. Make sure it goes into 4 meter
  4. Wait for 10 seconds for the reading
  5. Make sure to wipe the probe after using

Expert Verdict

I have been into growing bonsai along with orchids for some time. Since I am taking care of the plants it becomes very clear, both of these plants need a limited amount of water and sunlight. This amount cannot be more or less. So I was getting all kinds of meters and machines to measure all of them. But in that phase, I got this meter and was surprised to see that I could use it for all of the things and I was going to save a lot of cash too! I use this to measure the moisture of the soil, temperature, and sunlight. Since it is detrimental for the orchid and bonsai to bear too much moisture and sunlight I was relieved to have this mad measure every bit that goes into my plants. They are growing very well with measured care and love. I move the plants whenever see too much light on them and also when there is too little. If you need a complete gardening tool for any kind of plants, trees, or anything this is the one you should get.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Catchy LCDNot for professional use
4 in one
Quick and accurate

4. Best Digital Illuminance Light Meter: BTMETER BT-881D Digital Illuminance Light Meter

Best Digital Illuminance Light Meter BTMETER BT-881D Digital Illuminance Light Meter

Specification

  • Brand: BTMETER
  • Display: 3999 Counts
  • Range: 0.01 to 400,000Lux
  • Temperature Accuracy: +/- 0.1%
  • Sampling time: 2~3 times per second
  • Accuracy: ±4% ± 0.5% f.s (0-20000 Lux); ±5% ± 10 (20000 Lux-400000 Lux)

Description

Forget about speculating the amount of light your plants are getting, get accurate and timely readings of every kind of light with BTMETER BT-881D Digital Illuminance Light Meter. This is the digital illuminance light meter that will measure every kind of light for the plants.

Features

  • Accurate and fast response: This light meter gives the most accurate result within a very short time. It is possible to get readings within 0.4 seconds. The accuracy rate is non-compromisable which is 4% for 100000 and 5% for 400000.
  • Wide measuring range: This has a very wide measuring range and you can measure lumens from very low to very high range.
  • Memorizing ability: This light meter has the ability to record 33 sets of readings which can be very helpful for any work.

How to use

Using a light meter is pretty easy, especially when you have a BTMETER BT-881D Digital Illuminance Light Meter. Here are some simple steps to follow:

  1. Turn the power button on
  2. Face the sensor to the direction of light
  3. You can move the top according to your preference
  4. Get the readings

Expert Verdict

Being a professional gardener, it is very important for me to take good care of my plants. It becomes easier with the help of digital tools and meters. I have used a lot of light meters and have a few of them in my hand but I always find myself reaching for this one. this is a very good one for me. I have to store my data after I get all the readings. Since this has the capability of saving data I can easily record the readings after doing all the measurements rather than roaming around with a notebook. This alone is the biggest plus point for the light meter but this has any more capability. It can actually give me accurate reading in a very short time, the top is super flexible so I can easily move it around while doing the reading of my plants in different areas. This is quite something and has been in my pantry for so long.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Wide measuring rangeUnclear Instruction
Memorizing abilityNot professionally usable
Accurate and fast response

5. Best For Wide Measurement Range: Digital Illuminance Light Meters For Indoor Plants And Grow Lights, VA High Definition Display Multicolors Light Meter

Best For Wide Measurement Range Digital Illuminance Light Meters For Indoor Plants And Grow Lights, VA High Definition Display Multicolors Light Meter

Specification

  • Brand: Cresea Products
  • Model: TA631A
  • Range: 0.1 200,000LUX 0.01 20000FC
  • Measuring level: 100/1000/10000, 100,000/200,000LUX
  • 100/1000/10000 20000FC
  • Accuracy: +(4%+5); calibrated under the standard incandescent lamp at color temperature 2856°K; +(6%+5); other visible light cosine angle deviation feature 30°±2%; 60° ±6%; 80° ±25%;
  • Resolution: LUX:< 1000:0.1; ≥1000:1 FC:< 100:0.01; < 1000:0.1; ≥1000:1
  • Ambient Range: 0 ~60°C
  • Temp. Accuracy: ±2°C

Description

Digital Illuminance Light Meters for Indoor Plants and Grow Lights, VA High Definition Display Multicolor Light Meter has the ability to give you accurate results in selectable light sources. The incredible body structure and multifunctional capability with a wide measurement range make it the best light meter for a wide measurement range.

Features

  • Wide measurement ranges: This light meter has a very incredible measurement range, the maximum amount of range it can measure is 300000LUX.
  • Selectable light source: You can easily select your desired light source from the options and measure the range, and ratio of your choice.
  • Data hold: This light meter has the ability to hold data in real-time to make your work easier. You can easily store data for the future and use them in time.

How to use

Become a pro at using a light meter only by following some easy and simple steps:

  1. Turn the power button on
  2. Set up the mode
  3. Put the sensor on top of the plant
  4. Take readings

Expert Verdict

This light meter is a compact package in the price range. All the light meters I have tried so far were too pricey and did not work well for plants. But this one is a complete lifesaver that works like a miracle for plants. I love how flexible the sensor is, I can easily turn it around in the direction I want without having to do more all the time. Also the option for going between Lux and Foot Candles. Sometimes it becomes difficult to understand big numbers like LUX it is when foot candles come to the rescue, the numbers are pretty small so you can easily read them. The data-holding part is great for me. I can just store all the readings and use them later. Since I have started using this light meter taking care of my plants has become very easy, Also I can say this light meter is going to serve you for a long time. So get one if you are looking for something that is not a rip-off and that actually going to work great.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Selectable light sourceButton problems
Data holdSome unclear factors
Wide measurement ranges

6. Best Multifunctional Light Meter: Digital Light Meters AP-8801C Light Meter for Plants Measure Light

Best Multifunctional Light Meter Digital Light Meters AP-8801C Light Meter for Plants Measure Light

Specification

  • Brand: AOPUTTRIVER
  • Display: 3999
  • Repeatability: ±2%
  • Resolution: 0.1LUX/FC
  • Wide Measurement Range: 0.1~400,000Lux
  • Storage Temperature-humidity: -10℃ ~ 50℃(14℉ ~ 122℉) 0~80%Rh

Description

The presence of multiple aspects like locking data, relative measurements, auto zero, etc. makes this the best multifunctional light meter. Digital Light Meters AP-8801C Light Meter for Plants Measure Light has been recognized for its outstanding performance and it has been approved that customers are 100% satisfied with the after-sale service.

Features

  • Separated light sensor: The light sensor has been separated from the main body for the flexibility of getting readings from a distance.
  • Wide application: This light meter has a wide range of 0.01 – 400000 LUX Max/Min by which you can measure light of every kind. There are other special functions like auto power off, data storing, accurate measurements, etc.
  • Backlight function: This light meter comes with a backlight function. This gives you clear and colorful readings even when there is not enough light.

How to use

  1. Turn the light meter on with the power button
  2. Set the range
  3. Remove the sensor cover
  4. Held the sensor on the area of your choice
  5. Read the measurement on display

Expert Verdict

I love the light meter so much just because of the removable sensor. I can easily get the readings of my plants from a distance. I use a selfie stick to hold the sensor and hold it on top of my plants to get t reading from every corner. This way I get the most accurate reading since no shadow is getting in the way. Usually, other light meters would not get the light readings this accurate because body shadow would often get in the way. Also when I had to get light readings of my backyard plants with their light meters I had to stand in the scorching sun for hours just to get light readings accurately but now I can stand under an umbrella and get light readings of my plants. It has an auto-off mode which can be irritating for some people but I think it actually saves battery and gives you flexibility to use the meter for a longer time. Overall I think this is the best one so far I have used. This might be a little difficult for beginners but worth the hassle.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Backlight functionPoor customer service
Separated light sensor
Wide application

7. Best For All Indoor Plants: Upgraded: Quantum PAR Meter – High Precision, Grow Light meter, Indoor Plants meter

Best For All Indoor Plants Upgraded Quantum PAR Meter - High Precision, Grow Light meter, Indoor Plants meter

Specification

  • Brand: LIFEES
  • Ranges: 400 to 700 nm
  • Accuracy: 10,000 μmol/s
  • Sampling rate: 2-3 times per second
  • Operating temperature: 32-104 degrees F (0-40 degrees C)
  • Measurement System: PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation)
  • Battery Cell Type: 2 AAA batteries

Description

Save money and time by testing the light measurements of indoor plants with the best indoor light meter for indoor plants.  Quantum PAR Meter – High Precision, Grow Light meter, and Indoor Plants meter give you the most accurate PAR measurements.

Features

  • High precision: This is perfect for measuring LED output. This light meter can yield higher accuracy independent of wavelength.
  • Perfect for indoor plants: This light meter is just perfect for indoor plants. You have the option for data logging and a huge 2xAAA battery.

How to use

  1. Turn the power button on
  2. Set the sensor in the place you want to measure the light
  3. Record measuring

Expert Verdict

This is something that you would not want to miss. this can give you the most accurate measurement. Also, this light meter can measure light in 10,000 μmol/s which is the most accurate form, so you can guess this light meter has all the characteristics of accurate measuring. It helped me so much in my journey of growing orchids that I cannot even describe. Since the orchids need a specific amount of light and cannot stand more than the specific amount. So I had to be very careful with the light measurements. I have used many light meters throughout the journey but many of them have disappointed me and I have lost my orchids. Since I have got this one I can say I am giving my orchids just enough light without any hassle. I would recommend this to anyone who is trying to grow orchids.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
High precisionFlashes when turned on
Indoor plants friendlyCable problem

8. Best For Rotatable Detector: AIOMEST AI-881E Digital Light Meter, Handheld Foot Candle Meter

Best For Rotatable Detector AIOMEST AI-881E Digital Light Meter, Handheld Foot Candle Meter

Specification

  • Brand: AIOMEST
  • Display: 3999
  • Range Select: Auto Ranging
  • Resolution: 0.01Lux
  • Repeatability: ±2%
  • Sampling rate: 2 times /s
  • Temperature Characteristic: ±0.1%/℃
  • Accuracy: ≦10,000LUX/1,000FC: ±4%rdg±0.5%f.s
  • Resolution: >10,000LUX/1,000FC: ±5%rdg±10dgt

Description

AIOMEST AI-881E Digital Light Meter, Handheld Foot Candle Meter is a digital illuminance meter that can be precisely used to measure illuminance in the field. This is a compact meter with rotatable sensor. The flexible and easy-to-handle sensor makes it the best rotatable detector.

Features

  • Accuracy: This meter helps measure luminosity accurately, it can help you measure even in ambient temperature. So this meter can help you take better care of the plant and help it grow bigger and stronger.
  • Sensor rotatable 270°: This light meter has a rotatable sensor up to 270 degrees. This can be beneficial to multi-directional detection.
  • Lux and ambient temperature: Along with the lux measurement this meter can give you ambient temperature measures. 

How to use

  1. Turn on the power button
  2. Select your preferred mode
  3. Hold the sensor in the direction of light above your plant
  4. Do this when your plants are getting light

Expert Verdict

This is one of the most beginner-friendly light meters that is great for plant care. It might not be for professional use but I love that. This has all the good things packed in it. First, the physical build is great you can easily use them for any kind of use, it doesn’t depend on that flimsy kind that is going to break apart with just one use. The soft rubber buttons are very easy and steady to turn on. this has the feature of selecting 5 predefined ranges along with 6tyh which is auto-ranging. These things work wonders for me I can choose between ranges for specific uses. In terms of accuracy, this is just unquestionable. I have been using this in my plants for so long that I can say it is great for that use. My plants are not burned or crisped up anymore so that’s a relief. Also, it is not a total rip-off considering other Light meters, this one I would say is fairly reasonable.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Sensor rotatableNot for professional
Lux and ambient temperaturePlastic feeling body
Accuracy

9. Best performance light meter: Wintact Digital Illuminance Light Meter Handheld with Thermometer Ambient

Best performance light meter Wintact Digital Illuminance Light Meter Handheld with Thermometer Ambient

Specification

  • Brand: Wintact
  • Measuring function: Illumination and temperature, difference value, max value, min value of illumination
  • Main parts of photometer head: Photodiode+cosines corrector+correction filter
  • Temperature probe: NTC thermistor
  • Total measuring range: 0~200,000 Lux
  • Four ranges: ×1:0 ~ 199.9 Lux, ×10:200 ~ 1999.9Lux, ×100:2000 ~ 19999.9Lux, ×1000:20000 ~200000Lux
  • Temperature measuring range: 14.18~121.82℉ / -9.9℃ ~ 49.9℃
  • Illuminance accuracy: ±3%rdg (below 10000 Lux); ±4%(above 10000 Lux)
  • Temperature accuracy: ±1.0 ℃
  • Units of illuminance and temp: Lux/℃, Lux/℉, FC/℃, FC/℉
  • Data storage: Max 67
  • Power supply: 3x 1.5V AAA batteries
  • Battery life: Approx. 200 hours (continuous operation time without the backlight on)
  • Function: Backlit, Auto power off, Low battery indication
  • Humidity: 32℉ to 104℉ ( 0℃ to 40℃ ), 10 to 90%RH
  • Storage humidity: 14℉ to 122℉ ( 0℃ to 40℃ ), 10 to 90%RH Carbon

Description

 Get accurate fast light readings with Wintact Digital Illuminance Light Meter Handheld with Thermometer Ambient. This has been proven to be the best performance light meter because of the build quality and the greater performance.

Features

  • Multifunctional: This light meter is a multifunctional machine that has low/high illumination tips, auto-off, low battery indication, etc.
  • Memory readings: This light meter is equipped with minimum, maximum, and difference reading settings. This can hold up to 67 data sets.
  • User-friendly: This digital illuminance is incredibly user-friendly. The sensor on the top, detachable cap, and damage-preventable functions can actually make a huge difference.

How to use

  1. Remove the cap of the sensor.
  2. Turn on the power button.
  3. Hold it on top of the leaves where light hits.
  4. Ave or write the readings.

Expert Verdict

Since I have been growing indoor plants, I need to check on the light often otherwise the plants will die. So far I have used quite a few light meters and I have seen many not working because of the low light situation in the house. The measurements are most often not accurate due to which I have lost quite a few plants. After much hesitation, I wanted to give this one a try and this worked great for my plants! I can say they are getting enough light just by looking at how well they are growing.  The smile on the plants makes me wonder why I did not get this one first. This one is easy user user-friendly anyone with zero experience with the light meter can use this one. this one has a long battery life and I can use this for a long time without any problems. Also, it can actually save battery life with the auto-off option. The three modes have given me the flexibility to go around and do other things with this light meter alongside taking care of the plants. Really happy with the results, seems like I am going to stick to this one for a long time.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
MultifunctionalThe sensor comes off easily
Memory readings
User-friendly

10. Best for Clear Reading Display: BTMETER Digital Illuminance Light Meter

Best for Clear Reading Display BTMETER Digital Illuminance Light Meter

Specification

  • Brand: BTMETER
  • Display: 1999
  • Resolution: 1 Lux
  • Sampling Time: 2.0 times/s
  • Range: 0.1 Lux~200,000 Lux
  • Accuracy:±3%rdg ±0.5%f.s (0.1-20,000 Lux); ±5%rdg±10dgt (20,000-200,000 Lux)

Description

Measure illuminating from every angle with the BTMETER Digital Illuminance Light Meter. This is the best clear reading display light meter that has a very vibrant display and the split-type brightness detector provides measuring reading in high accuracy.

Features

  • Extensible sensor: This light meter has an extensible sensor, it is built in an extra 13.8 inches long for reaching optimum positions and distance.
  • Great for plants: This light meter is built to take accurate light measurements in a greenhouse, or garden and it can provide accurate measurements for your vegetables, Orchids, and flowers.
  • Used for professional work: This light meter can be handy for your professional work too. this can be used for showing light intensity in studios and offices.

How to use

  1. Turn the device on with the power button
  2. Set the mode
  3. Place the sensor on top of the leaves in the direction of light
  4. Move around the sensor as per your choice

Expert Verdict

This is one of the most nicely designed light meters I have used ever. The detachable sensor with cord has my heart really. Only if you have been in trouble while using a light meter because of your body shadow you will know how much of a blessing this one is. I grow plants indoors and outdoors. Every time I went to take light readings in the scorching sun I would have to wait hours just to get the right angle where my body shadow would not get in the way. This pain is now gone because of this light meter I can easily take light readings from every angle without having to worry about my shadow getting in the way. Since this is actually a light meter that has been built considering plants’ need for light, it can take accurate measurements and help the plants get the optimal amount of light. I would not go back anywhere because of how easy it has made taking light measurements easy for me. except for the thin cords, I love everything about this light meter and would suggest any day for using it on the plants.

Pros and Cons

ProsCons
Extensible sensorThin cords
Great for plants
Used for professional work

How To Measure Light For Indoor Plants?

Indoor plants are very fun to grow and for those who do not have access to a backyard but have a passion for growing plants, it is the only option. In growing indoor plants, the most difficult aspect is getting enough light. It is not easy to maintain enough light when growing indoor plants. to solve the problem of light for indoor plants you can measure the amount of light your plants are getting and put them in another place if the measurement is not right. To measure the amount of light:

  • You can eyeball the measurements of light for your plants. put the plants in an area where it can get light for at least half the day. Also, you should be cautious of giving too much light to your plants.
  • The eyeballing method is not always right and might not work well for sensitive plants. in that, you can use a light meter for accurate readings.
  • Use a light meter that can give accurate results.
  • Remove the top cover.
  • Angle the sensor toward the light not on the direction of your plants. hold the light meter for some time. You will get results in Lux or FC.

So there you can easily measure light for your indoor plants with light meters or sometimes it is possible to eyeball it.

Why We Need To Use Light Meter For Houseplants?

Houseplants tend to be very sensitive to conditions. Especially they need a proper amount of light and water not too much not too less. To grow these plants, it is very important to make sure to always take measurements and give the proper care. This measuring can only be taken by meters. Because houseplants cannot grow in too much light or too little light, light meters come to the rescue here.  Li9ght meters are just a handy way to take measurements of the light the plants are getting and if they are not getting enough, you can always move to the light parts of your house. People might think why not just eyeball it, it is not always possible to eyeball light, especially for the sensitive ones. This is why we need light meters for houseplants.

FAQs

1. Do plant light meters work?

Yes, plant light meters work to measure the amount of light your plants are getting. You can measure them and change the position of your plants if needed. Since light is a very important component for plants it is necessary they get enough of it.

2. What is the difference between PPFD and lux meter?

Lux is a universally used measure for getting the level of brightness or visible light on the other hand PPFD refers to the amount of light suitable for active photosynthesis of the plants. PPFD tells how much usable light per second reaches your plant. Lux is very casual and what we would refer to as brightness.

3. Does PPFD change with distance?

Yes, PPFD changes as the distance changes from the plant. All forms of light footprints change as the distance changes from the plant canopy.

4. What happens if PPFD is too high?

All plants have a maximum amount of PPFD range and if somehow they surpass the maximum range your plant is going to face damage. Also, damage can occur if you exceed the maximum level of PPFD in your plant, leaf burn and health problems can occur at this rate.

Final thoughts

Growing plants are very fun and tough at the same time. If the measurements are not right and the plants are not getting enough of every component they start to struggle and all the care that you give to the plants goes in vain. Specially houseplants and the ones like orchids, and bonsai are very prone to getting completely ruined if not given enough sunlight. A light meter can put you at ease and help grow plants that are very tricky. Overall, I personally liked the Dr. Meter LX1330B Digital Illuminance Light Meter because it was both accurate and helped my plants grow in optimal conditions! I hope that you find the light meter that you are looking for your plants.

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