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Top 10 Best Digital Ballasts Reviews 2024 – Expert’s Choice!

When you look at today's gardening scene, it is so beautiful. Do you know why? There are no more climatic or seasonal limitations to growing plants of your own. Hydroponics is the latest and the neatest way of growing plants quite easily all-year round.

 It is the best way to grow plants at home without the need for soil. Only mineral nutrients will sustain the growth of your plants.For a complete hydroponic system, you will need the best digital ballasts,

Also you need reflector and grow lamp for focusing on the Ballasts, their basic duty is to control the amount of power that your grow lamp uses. Ballasts are of two types, magnetic and digital. In a nutshell, digital ballast are more efficient.

If you have used a hydroponic system before without a ballast, I am certain your experienced a lot of growth lamp explosions. Therefore, I present to you the best digital ballast on the market as well as best digital ballast reviews in 2020, that you can choose the best grow ballast and pick top one also enjoy its service.

Best Digital Ballasts in 2024 - Comparisons

10 Best Digital Ballasts in 2024 - Reviews

 1.  iPower GLBLST1000DX4 4-Pack Horticulture 1000 Watt Digital Dimmable Electronic Ballast

This is the best dimmable ballast from iPower for indoor growers who use higher wattage for horticultural production. It is the affordable options in the market with high flexibility since you can utilize it if you have HPS or MH grow lights. Each package comes with 4 digital ballast each having 1000w.

ipower ballast has an in-built- microprocessor that quickly distinguishes between HPS bulb and MH bulb hence you do not need to purchase another ballast or switch and requires less effort. In addition, this electronic ballast can light up bulbs within 1-2 minutes. The output voltage is stable hence no flicker lights.

The ballast operates at voltage ranges of between 100v to 265v. It is therefore fully switchable. The machine can detect input voltage and then draw the required amps accordingly. The iPower has a circuit breaker to protect against short-circuiting.it also has a powder-coated aluminum casing and an internal fan to protect against overheating.

With the dimmable lighting control option, you can adjust power to the desired level. However, this function is available once the lamp has reached its operating voltage. This is to make sure that there is the right mixture of gases in the filament for stable light output and the bulb’s color temperature.

Compared to magnetic ballasts, this electronic ballast is more effective as you get 30% more brightness leading to improved yields. Because of high-frequency output, less power is lost. The ballast is lightweight and can be hanged or mounted vertically or horizontally. The heavy-duty cord included enables you to connect to power hassle-free.

Pros

  • They are affordable and efficient
  • Provides good lighting for the plants
  • Provides 3 dimmable options to choose from
    Cons
  • The Power output can be adjusted as required
  • Can detect HPS and MH grow light systems automatically

Cons

  • Cannot be used at home, only in greenhouse

 2.  Phantom PHB2010 II 1000W Digital Ballast

Phantom PHB2010 II Digital Ballast is an advanced model of the original phantom ballast with better performance. Its unique feature is the microprocessor which ensures smooth running of the setup hence the best electronic ballast. In addition, this dimmable ballast can handle a lot of power compared to the rest.

The Phantom offers protection against fluctuations and surges. Furthermore, it has a built-in hot restrike programming to protect the ballast and lamp. In case the ballast turns off unexpectedly the ballast detects a power loss and restores it after 15 minutes. Also ensures no excess power is drawn from the circuit.

This is one of the few ballasts with dimmable options featuring an intelligent lamp ignition and power control LED indicators. The brightness of the ballast is digitally controlled LED markers and a push-button. The ballast has four dimming levels and you can dim it to fit your bulb wattage easily.

Grow light ballasts are known to reduce the risk of premature failure, phantom II technological features give it this advantage. It is designed with no holes hence no clogging of dust which may result in its failure. It runs very quietly you can barely hear it even right beside you.

Phantom PHB2010 II Digital Ballast is the best hps ballast because it meets both the quality, reliability, and power requirements. This device is one of the most energy-efficient Grow ballasts in the market. It is able to provide pressure sodium and metal halide lamps with sufficient power supplies.

The electronic ballasts drive the highest light output for maximum plant growth. They are designed to operate vertically for cooler operation and optimum grow space than magnetic ballasts. Phantom PHB2010 II Digital Ballast has an internal resin coating of components and a sealed structure to protect it from water and dust.

Pros

  • It has multiple mounting options
  • It provides four brightness adjustments
  • It is highly durable and includes safety features
  • The digital ballast has a good value of money
  • Quite and radio interference-free operations

Cons

  • It is very expensive 

 3.  iPower 600 Watt Digital Dimmable Electronic Ballast

If you would like to invest in an excellent and safe ballast, then you will love iPower. It supports dual voltage input of power meaning you can use as low as 120 volts and as high as 240 but still be safe.  

Furthermore, iPower ballast offers you the opportunity to dim lights especially when its shiny outside. You can go as low as 50% to 100%.

There is a relatively long and high-quality power cord that will circulate your ballast with safely transferred power for highly and safe operations. 

The iPower ballast can produce up to 30% more lumens which means you will able to enjoy robust yields.Besides the ballast also doesn't lose a lot of heat by making high frequencies instead it saves you a lot of energy.

iPower has an amazing software that can convert HPS and MH light bulbs leading to prolonged bulb life. It also enables quick ignition by lighting your lamps in less than a minute. To add on that, the ballast ensures a stable supply of power. You will never notice when the power runs low or high because the 600 watt ballast bulbs will not flicker at all. 

If you have iPower, overheating ballast will be past tense. First of all the ballast comes with a built-in short circuit safety which can also take care of power surges, ignition failures. On that note, it has a fan that is designed to ensure the ballast temperature does not go up. Moreover, this ipower ballast review or 600 watt digital ballast reviews help to make a right decision for purchase no doubt about it. 

Pros

  • It is portable
  • It is light in weight
  • Safety standards for its users
  • Has software that boosts its efficiency
  • The ballast saves you so much power

Cons

  • It's highly advanced so it could be complicated for users who have less expertise.

 4.  TOPHORT 1000W Digital Electronic Ballast for 1000W HPS MH Grow Light Bulb Lamp Ballast (1000W, Blue)

The digital electronic ballast from TOPHORT has been designed to provide excellent plant growth. This 1000w ballast will provide output voltage for high-wattage lamps and bulbs. It can operate on both dual voltage of 120v and 240v hence can easily be switched. The ballast works well for both MH bulbs and HPS.

The frequency output of 50 /60 Hz ensures stable output voltage, as a result, you will achieve energy efficiency because, with high-frequency output, there is less power loss. The ballast is quiet as its design has a low noise structure. It generates 68.5db which is low and cannot with interfere your work or life

The ballast has an option of adjusting the brightness where you can choose a percentage of 50, 75,100, or super lumens depending on the growing needs of the plants. It produces 30% more lumens for improved yields. Unlike other kinds of ballasts, this can be adjusted for minimal Total harmonic distortion.

When it comes to heat, this ballast can operate for a long time without overheating since it has a built-in fan for cooling. It also has a fin design to keep temperatures low. In addition, there are other protection systems to protect against short/open circuiting, power surging, ignition failure, and end of bulb life.

The ballast is made from high-quality materials making it strong and durable. It only weighs 3kg hence easy to mount it. The product has UL certified hence it meets all the safety and quality standards. It also comes with a two-year warranty for defects caused by the manufacturer.

Pros

  • Produces very bright lights
  • Easy to set up and works well
  • Supports both HPS and MH bulbs
  • With the cooler, it does not overheat
  • Comes with ip65 water-resistant design

 5.  Yescom 1000W HPS MH Digital Electronic Dimmable Ballast for Grow Light Bulb Lamp

The 1000W digital electronic ballast from Yescom is one of the best options if you are growing more crops and need high lumens. The ballast works perfectly for HPS and MH grow light systems hence there is no need to have an extra ballast. The bulb can quickly ignite lamps within 1-2 minutes.

It has short circuit protection that protects critical components in case of excessive flow of current. The unit operates at a temperature range of between -20°C to +40°C.

Therefore, with a in-built fuse, cooling fan, and a graduating fin design, it will always maintain the ranges. The internal fan protects against overheating.

The ballast has high energy efficiency. It uses less power but it produces high amounts of lumens hence high productivity. In addition, the dimmable control button gives you the option of either reducing or increasing lumens, depending on the type of crops or the growth stage of the plants.

With a power voltage of 110v to 240v, and a frequency of 50/60Hz, the lamps will have supply constant lamp voltage hence you will have stable light output. In case of a power outage, this ballast can be efficiently powered by generators without any flickers.

Yescom 1000w ballast high-performance cooling system ensures that the unit provides excellent performance for the crops. Another essential feature is overheating protection and short/open circuit protection, for the safety of critical components. The body is made from high-quality and durable aluminum metal to serve you for longer.

Pros

  • Supports both HPS and MH bulbs
  • Provides excellent cooling solutions
  • Works for both 120v and 240v voltages
  • The high wattage is good for high lumens
  • The product is fairly priced hence affordable

Cons

  • Needs so much attention and vigilance

 6.  iPower Horticulture 1000 Watt Digital Dimmable Electronic Ballast for Hydroponic HPS MH

ipower horticulture dimmable electronic ballast is perfect if you are looking for a stable supply of lighting to your indoor plants. It can operate on a dual voltage of 120v and 240v since its range is between 100v to 265v. The ballast can detect the input voltage and draw the required amps.

Whether you have HPS or MH bulbs, this electronic ballast works for both. It uses a microprocessor to distinguish between the two grow light systems and power them accordingly. The compact design allows mounting in different styles. You can hang it or mount it vertically or horizontally.

It is equipped with a powder-coated aluminum casing with a finned body for maximum heat transfer while minimizing ballast temperature. The internal fan together with a 40mm DC fan allows the ballast to stay on for longer without overheating. This allows you to maximize output. Also, there is a resin coating on the internal to protect circuits from dirt and moisture.

Remarkably, it has a dimmable lighting feature, allowing you to adjust power levels, output, and power consumption as desired. You can adjust it to 50%, 75%, 100% power levels. This ipower ballast comes with a standard surge protector and is generator-ready. Due to internal RF protection, there will be no RF interference while using the ballast.

 It comes with 8 feet long and durable power cord to connect it to a power source. Another great accessory is the cable tie. Each package has 200 pieces of cable ties that enable you to put the wires in an organized manner to avoid being messy. The cable wire ties are self-locking.

Pros

  • Comes with a long heavy-duty cord
  • Produces high lumens for high yields
  • Performs consistently for a long time
  • Comes with 200 pcs of cable wire ties.
  • The dimmable feature allows you to adjust power levels.

Cons

  • It does not have a reset button as advertised

 7.  SolisTek Matrix LCD 1000W Digital Ballast                                          

Solis Tek matrix has a wide range of ballasts but the STK1001LCD is their newest and so far the best digital ballast they have.

This ballast entirely relies on software for its operation, something that we found very promising. For example, the pre-ignition system run that will confirm safe power connections.

It has a built-in inner timer that you can fully customize the on and off settings depending on the length of cycles you prefer.On the same note, you can use SolisTek Matrix LCD with a variety of voltage range.

That is from 120 volts, 208 volts to 240volts.To add on that, the digital ballast is dimmable. At the same time, it will give you a number of wattage settings so that you are limitless in what you work on.

The SolisTek Matrix ballast has a spotless green LCD screen which you will find easy to use especially where there is no light. The screen can be remote controlled too.

In size, it is smaller and can be moved from one point to another to maximize its functionality. To top it all, the SolisTek Matrix will last for years and you will get to harness plenty benefits from it.

Pros

  • It can last for many years.
  • Friendly to a wide range of voltages.
  • LCD screen has a remote control for easy use
  • Provides effortless growing with its digital timer.
  • The SolisTek Matrix utilizes a Sensus smart technology that is highly efficient.

Cons

  • It is new and advanced. Therefore, it can be complicated for people who are almost there in technology.

 8.  Quantum 1000W Digital Ballast

If you have a greenhouse where there is a lot of humidity, you tend to experience ballast breakdown especially if they have no shields. One way you could go around high humidity is by owning a Quantum 1000W Digital Ballast.

It is compatible with both metal halide and high-pressure bulbs. You can also configure 120v and 240v on your own because cables are included.

If you want to extend voltage, you will have to seek an electrician to do it for you. In addition to that, Quantum 1000 watt digital ballast provides the most stable power output and it has a cooling mechanism.

As compared to other ballast, I love this unit because of its stable output frequency. It is also 15 percent cooler as compared to other digital ballasts you will find today.

This quantum ballast 1000w unit also has a higher output of lumen, unlike other magnetic ballasts. This makes it run well on generators without any problems.

Additionally,1000 watt ballast digita it has a circuit board sealed with resin for easy installation in areas with high humidity. You can use it with flip boxes and lighting controllers.

Pros

  • Does not flicker
  • Dimming of up to 100%
  • It can last for many years
  • It can configure a wide range of voltage.
  • Has a resin-sealed board that protects it from high humidity

Cons

  • It is only compatible with MH and HP bulbs

 9.  Phantom PHBC3151 II CMh Ceramic Metal Halide Digital

The phantom digital ballast is suitable for small gardens. For efficiency, the 315w ballast is specifically designed for ceramic Metal Halide lamps.it operates on low frequency and provides stable current and consistent power output levels that are effective for both flowering and vegetative growth stages of your crops.

The unit has internal RF shielding that protects against RF interference. Just like other ballasts from phantom, the unit is reliable, works silently and is energy efficient. With low frequency, you are sure of stable current and consistent output levels. It can provide a lamp striking distance of up to 30’.

The lamp has multiple protection systems i.e. short and open circuit protection. It also features overcurrent protection, over and under voltage protection, hot lamp startup, light and end-of-life protection. All these ensure that the unit runs at maximum capacity without damage. Furthermore, the unit will last longer.

The ballast is lightweight and can easily be mounted or hanged in the desired location. It is easy to mount it 30’ away from the reflector using lamp cord extensions. The extension power cord is long enough to serve you comfortably. The product comes with an operating instructions manual and a three-year warranty.

Another aspect is its versatility. This ballast can comfortably operate on dual voltage. With dual voltage, you can easily switch between 120v and 240v input voltage. The hot-restrike feature protects the bulb and the ballast from damage in case there is a power interruption. The lamp will take time to cool down until a stable electricity supply is achieved.

Pros

  • It runs cool and quiet
  • Long power cord extension
  • It is reliable and energy-efficient
  • Can operate on both 120v and 240v voltages
  • The internal RF shielding reduces RF interference

Cons

  • The ballast may take longer to cool

 10.  1000W Electronic Ballast, Dimmable Digital Ballast

Finally, the most reliable and best choice for Indoor plant growing is the XtraHydro electric ballast. Most of the above ballasts work best in greenhouses and could be hazardous if used in the house. Due to that reason, we thought of including XtraHydro for you who need one like it.

The XtraHydro is extremely safe, functional, dependable, stable and reliable. You will just have to grow your plants closer to you without a fuss.

The ballast has a built-in fan and a stable light input. On that note, you can automatically exchange bulbs from MH to HP.

This is one of the safest digital ballasts. It has incredible safety features like overheating protection, power surges, short circuit protection, end of bulb protection and ignition failure protection.Expect optimal heat dissipation with this unit, thanks to the built-in cooling fan and the graduating fin design.

To secure your investment, this 1000w digital ballasts unit comes with 3 years replacement warranty. In case you experience any problems within the warranty period, you just need to contact them and they will help you out.

Pros

  • Has high luminosity
  • Lamps are flicker free
  • Has convenient wiring
  • Flexible wattage output
  • Uses low power yet it is enough for your plants

Cons

  • It supports only two types of bulbs

Watch the Video: Before You Buy a 1000W DE HPS Grow Light


Credit for This Video: Everest Fernandez

Things to Consider When Buying Best Digital Ballasts

Dimming

When buying a ballast, you should consider its dimming capabilities. Dimming enables you to save power sometimes by turning your light at a lower voltage. The best ballast can allow up to 50% dimming of power whereas there are more advanced ballasts that can adjust even lower than that. A digital ballast does the dimming digitally while other ballasts do it manually. So depending on the rate at which you want to save power you choose the best dimmer.

Bulb Protection

Apart from dimming, you may also consider a ballast that can protect your bulbs from burning out. The best ballasts have their own added bulb protection features. These features may include line quality and ignition voltage control

Durability

Besides dimming and bulb protection, you may think of how long you plan to use the ballast. In short, it's durability. Well, for a ballast to be durable it has to be of the best quality. How you have done your electrical connections also matter in this case. You don't want to get a ballast that will be defective in a short time. Note that, high-quality ballast last even a decade if you have good electrical connections as like best 1000w digital ballast.

Accompaniments

Depending on the brand, some heaters come with added accompaniments. Why would you spend extra on a shower or a house when you can get that all at a go? Some useful water heaters accompaniments include a hose, a temperature gauge, a shower head a dual function heating system such as a gas burner.

Shielding

To stay safe from being tracked down just because your ballast had a radio frequency mix up, you need to consider selecting a ballast that has the best radio frequency shielding. If it is not well covered, depending on how they work, they create radio frequency interference. Other electronic devices you may have around may begin to shutter and you may be sued for that.

Flexibility

Another thing you may consider is the flexibility of your ballast. A flexible ballast will simplify your gardening. This means you will be able to use it under several situations like lighting a number of bulbs, using different bulbs that utilize different voltages, supporting double end bulbs and boosting the power output of your garden bulbs.

Temperature Control

Having your entire hydroponics equipment running together with the lit bulbs, it means your chamber will begin to rise in temperature. High temperatures could be good for Cold months but somehow it affects the transpiration of your plants by increasing it. If you are planning to buy a digital ballast, find one that when it heats it doesn't become hot because it will be challenging to switch off. Besides your plants will lose so much water.

Noise

A good ballast is quiet. Only the cooling fan may make some noise but the best ballast produces 100% no noise. Since most ballasts are designed to be super silent, this consideration may not give you a hard time. If it makes noise, it has lost its radio frequency, has some loose screws or any other problem.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between digital ballast and electronic ballast?

A:  Digital ballasts have higher output and provide better spectral output compared to electronic ballasts which give 30% less light. Digital ballasts also have adjustable wattage and can allow you to use power at different wattages, unlike electronic ballast. Digital ballasts use 3-4 % less energy compared to electronic ballasts.

Q: How long does digital ballast last?

A: According to Certified Ballast Manufacturers Association the average digital ballast lasts about 20 years if regularly used in contrast to magnetic ballasts which will last about 75,000 hours or 12 to 15 years. It is advised to change your ballasts before this time in order to increase its productivity.

Q: Can a digital ballast catch fire?

A: Yes, ballasts can catch fire when there is poor electrical contact. Electrical energy can cause fire when there are voltage drops across poor contact.

Q: When should I use a boost on digital ballast?

A: You can use it in the last couple of weeks before harvesting to fatten the buds up more or to boost a bulb back close to its original light output and squeeze another life out of it.

Final Verdict

There is one big lesson for you in this best ballast or digital ballast review. It is that digital ballasts are the best over other types of ballasts. Not only that but also you can get here best digital ballast 2017. At the rate at which people are getting involved in Hydroponic gardening, it means that the operations are becoming more advanced each minute. For your kind info. among the above reviews you get a watt option of 400 watt that is it's also a best 400 watt digital ballast for you if needed.If you want to reach vast knowledge about lawn & garden then you can visit our other popular reviews like, lawn sweepers, magnetic sweeper and garden hoe, it should be open your third eye regarding lawn and garden no doubt.

Yes,

Depending on your size of operation, you will get one of the above ballasts that will suit you. When buying the ballast of your choice also choose a Bulb Planters for perfect gardening, make sure it will fulfil all your requirements and it fits your garden. All these ballasts are excellent and have many extra-benefits for you. If you like them, share this information with friends. Have fun gardening digitally.

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William Jones
 

I launched this blog as a product reviewer and passionate blogger. Beside provide advance material, guiding you towards a better home and outdoors gears essentials reviews. I devote my maximum time creating research-based product recommended to you for an easy pick.

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