mars hydro 6500 vs. 8000 led grow lights

Indoor growers are well aware that different grow light series come with distinct designs and functionalities. However, what about the variations among different models within the same series?

Mars Hydro has launched several LED grow light models, including the 1000, 2000, 3000, and so on. Among these models, the largest ones are the Model 6500 and Model 8000. In this blog post, we will explore the similarities, differences, and applications of Model 6500 and Model 8000.


Let's start by understanding the specific models within each series:

Please note that this comparison focuses on different models within the same light series. If you're interested in learning about the differences between the FC and FC-E series, we have a dedicated blog post titled "FC VS. FC-E Series" that you can refer to.

Now, let's delve into the dissimilarities between Model 6500 and Model 8000. Specifically, we will compare FC6500 vs. FC8000 and FC-E6500 vs. FC-E8000.

Similarities between Mars Hydro 6500 and 8000:

  • Both models have similar dimensions, approximately 1.15m x 1.15m (45'' x 45''), with a negligible 5cm difference. Consequently, their optimal coverage area remains the same, with a 5 ft x5 ft space during the vegetation stage and 4 ft x 4 ft during the flowering stage.

  • Despite being different models, as long as they belong to the same light series, the 6500 and 8000 models utilize the same brand of diodes - the Samsung LM301B, resulting in the same PPE (Photosynthetic Photon Efficacy) of 2.9μmol/j.

  • And they now both enable wireless control with Bluetooth or WiFi control over smartphones. They both support mobile control remotely, program growth schedules, preset timers, and

  • Additionally, all models within the 6500 and 8000 series share the same spectrum design which is a mix of 660-665nm,2800-3000K, and 4800-5000K, as illustrated in the provided picture.

the similarities (dimensions, full spectrum light, coverage) between mars hydro 6500 vs. 8000 led grow lights

Differences between Mars Hydro 6500 and 8000:

One of the most intriguing points of distinction between the 6500 and 8000 models lies in the confusion it causes among customers. This difference, however, enables the availability of a better or more suitable model for different groups of growers.

  1. Wattage (BTU):

The wattage of Mars Hydro 6500 LED grow lights has undergone several changes, starting from the initial 650W and eventually reaching 730W. Currently, the power consumption of FC6500 and FC-E6500 is 730W. On the other hand, the Mars Hydro 8000 LED grow lights consume 800W, requiring 70W more electrical power compared to the Model 6500 LEDs.

  • Wattage of Model 6500: 730W

  • Wattage of Model 8000: 800W

Consequently, the 6500 and 8000 models have different BTU numbers, with Mars Hydro 6500 LEDs at 2489.3 BTU and Mars Hydro 8000 LEDs at 2728 BTU.

  • BTU of Model 6500: 2489.3

  • BTU of Model 8000: 2728

  1. Price Difference:

Given the 70W disparity in wattage, the 8000 models are priced higher than the 6500 models. Specifically, FC8000 costs an additional 60 USD compared to FC6500, and FC-E8000 is also priced 60 USD higher than FC-E6500.

  • FC6500: $739.99 FC8000: $799.99

  • FC-E6500: $569.99 FC-E8000: $629.99

  1. Diode Quantity & Ampere Value:

To accommodate the higher power of the 8000 models, Mars Hydro has installed more diodes in the 8000 LED grow lights. This ensures that each diode draws the same low current as the Mars Hydro 6500 lights, preventing overdriving and extending the diode's lifespan.

ModelAmps @120V Amps @2400V Amps @277V
FC 65005.478A2.648A2.310A
FC-E 65006.052A3.003A2.627A
FC 80006.635A3.266A2.847A
FC-E 80006.619A3.261A2.842A

While the diodes may have the same current, it doesn't guarantee the same current throughout the entire light source. The variance in amperage can be significant for commercial growers due to certain regulatory restrictions. Therefore, the amperage difference between the Model 6500 and Model 8000 should be considered by commercial growers based on their specific circumstances and existing regulations.

  1. PPFD Map & Intensity:

PPFD (Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density) is a crucial feature of any LED grow light. It demonstrates the distribution of PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation), the light uniformity, and the amount of PAR that the plant canopy can receive per second. It's important to note that different plants and growth stages require varying photon amounts. A blog post titled "PPFD for Plants" has been published to provide further information on PPFD under different circumstances and growth stages.

Par maps (ppfd light intensity) of mars hydro 6500 and 8000

Considering Model 8000's higher wattage, it naturally exhibits greater PAR readings (PPF). The PPFD graph, tested in a 4'x4' grow tent and hung at 12'', indicates that the 6500 model reaches approximately 1,000 μmol/m²/s, while the 8000 model achieves around 1,550 μmol/m²/s. This results in a difference of approximately 200 μmol/m²/s, which may seem small but is actually quite significant in practical applications.

Applications of Mars Hydro 6500 and 8000:

In plant cultivation, it is known that a PPFD of 1,100 μmol/m²/s represents a saturation point, beyond which plants may struggle or face potential harm in absorbing photons. However, the theoretical maximum PPFD plants can absorb is 2,100 μmol/m²/s. At this point, plants experience accelerated growth, increased size, and enhanced terpenoid production. Although the currently applied maximum PPFD is 1,500 μmol/m²/s, which is not yet at its peak, the yield achieved at this level remains unmatched by other common PPFD points in plant industries.

To facilitate increased photon absorption and plant growth, carbon dioxide (CO2) supplementation becomes crucial. If you desire to reach the maximum PPFD of 1,500 μmol/m²/s, you must consider CO2 levels in your cultivation. For further reading on this topic, we recommend our blog post titled "CO2 for Plants" before continuing with the 6500 vs. 8000 comparisons.

What is the mars hydro fc8000 better at

The first significant application difference between the Model 6500 and Model 8000 is whether the LED grow lights will be used in cultivation with CO2 supplementation, where the CO2 saturation exceeds 1,200 ppm.

The Model 8000 LED grow lights are specifically designed for "CO2 cultivation" as their light intensity is sufficient to activate 100% photosynthesis and achieve maximum yield with a CO2 concentration exceeding 1,200 ppm. Therefore, the Model 8000 lights are better suited for growers who are well-versed in CO2 application for cultivation with high CO2 levels ranging from 1,200 ppm to 1,500 ppm.

The Model 6500 LED grow lights are commonly used in general cultivation without additional CO2 supplementation or with CO2 levels ranging from 800 ppm to 1,000 ppm. Hence, the FC6500 and FC-E6500 are suitable for growers utilizing grow tents and smaller grow rooms without plans for CO2 supplementation.

Moreover, another notable difference between the Model 6500 and Model 8000 LED grow lights is their wattage, which directly impacts electricity consumption costs.

For personal-scale or small-room cultivation, a 70W difference does not significantly affect electricity bills. However, when cultivation involves more than 100 or even 1,000 units, this 70W difference translates to 7,000W and 70,000W, leading to exponentially increased electricity costs.

what is the mars hydro 6500 led grow light better at

Furthermore, the FC6500 and FC-E6500 models are highly suitable for general indoor grow rooms and perfect for a 5x5 grow tent. In commercial settings, a “60 USD” price difference will be accumulated to $600, $6,000, or even $60,000, and that will save a lot! If you don't plan to use CO2 supplementation exceeding 1,200 ppm, using the 6500 models is both efficient and cost-effective.

Summary of Mars Hydro 6500 vs. 8000:

mars hydro grow lights mars hydro fc series fc 8000

In summary, the Model 8000 LED grow lights (FC8000 and FC-E8000) provide higher output, more diodes, and higher PPFD levels compared to the Model 6500 LED grow lights (FC6500 and FC-E6500). While these characteristics make the Model 8000 more intense in terms of light, they also pose greater challenges in control.

Mars Hydro recommends the Model 6500 LED grow lights (FC6500 and FC-E6500) for cultivators who do not use or use low-saturation CO2 supplementation in their cultivation. The Model 8000 LED grow lights (FC8000 and FC-E8000) are recommended for those who employ high saturation CO2 supplementation or have experience managing larger LED systems.

For commercial growers, the wattage and ampere differences between the Model 6500 and Model 8000 LEDs should be considered to ensure compliance with local regulations and meet specific requirements.

Choosing the appropriate fixture for your cultivation will prevent unnecessary expenses on electricity bills and allow you to maximize the potential of the LED grow lights, resulting in improved yield and quality.