The Red Sea G2 ReefLED update keeps the familiar form factor but introduces meaningful hardware and software upgrades so you can spend less time worrying about spectrum math and more time enjoying your corals.
Table of Contents
- At a glance: models, sizes and power
- Mounting, build and glare control
- Optics and PAR distribution
- Spectrum changes: more blue, more white, more control
- ReefBeat app: spectrum control, safety rails and presets
- Real-world use: tuning to your taste and your corals
- Conclusion
- FAQ
At a glance: models, sizes and power
The Red Sea G2 ReefLED lineup comes in three sizes so you can match output to your tank: the 60, the 115 and the 170. Physically they’re compact and slightly sleeker than the original ReefLED units, with rounded corners and the same reliable mounting options.
- Models: ReefLED 60 G2, ReefLED 115 G2, ReefLED 170 G2
- Approximate dimensions:
- 60: ~4.5 × 4.5 × 2 in
- 115: ~6 × 5.5 × 2.25 in
- 170: ~7 × 6.5 × 2.5 in
- Power draw: 60 W, 115 W and 170 W from the wall (depending on model)
Mounting, build and glare control
If you liked the original ReefLED mounting, nothing radical changes. The mounting arms maintain fixed heights so you’re mounting at the intended distance for optimal spread and intensity. The 60 mounts on panels up to 5/8" thick and swivels for access, while the 115 and 170 mount on panels up to 3/4" thick and lift for maintenance access.
The housing was refined with rounded corners so the light looks visually smaller above the tank. Internally, you still get a large heat sink and a very quiet fan to actively cool the LEDs. New to all sizes is an optional clip-on visor—handy if your tank is near low seating and you want to cut glare. The visors are easy to attach and remove for cleaning.
Optics and PAR distribution
Red Sea kept their dome and stadium-shaped lenses, which are effective at mixing channels and producing a wide, even blanket of light. The optics help maintain a pleasant shimmer and wider caustic patterns, which many hobbyists prefer for a natural look. According to Red Sea’s data, the G2 lights deliver a generous and even PAR spread—enough to grow anything from soft corals to high-light SPS.
Spectrum changes: more blue, more white, more control
This is where the Red Sea G2 ReefLED really steps up. The spectrum has been reworked with an expanded blue and violet range to target the wavelengths corals use most and to boost fluorescence and colour pop. At the same time, Red Sea increased the white output so you can cut through deep blue and reveal the chromatic pigments in fish and corals—ideal if you prefer a more natural-white presentation at times.
"Red Sea's created an even more capable and user friendly reef light so that more reefers can find success with their corals without having to become a light scientist."
ReefBeat app: spectrum control, safety rails and presets
The ReefBeat app now gives you direct, intuitive control over the Red Sea G2 ReefLED lights. When you pair a unit you'll be prompted to choose an initial colour preference, and unlike older models, the G2 includes a Kelvin slider to adjust the white-to-blue balance. Crucially, the lights maintain full power across the slider, so you don’t lose output when you shift from blue to white.
- Kelvin slider to adjust white/blue ratio while maintaining peak output
- Start time selection and automatic sunrise scheduling
- Preset library and the ability to build and save custom schedules
- Acclimation mode and lunar cycles
- Manual settings library and a built-in Photo Mode for quick picture-friendly settings without orange filters
What I really like is that the app includes operational safety rails. It gives an exposure rating so you’re less likely to accidentally choose a suboptimal schedule for your corals. That guidance helps you hit the sweet spot for growth without having to be a lighting expert.
Real-world use: tuning to your taste and your corals
You can use the ReefBeat app to set a simple schedule and intensity, or dive deep into custom profiles. If you enjoy taking photos, the Photo Mode shortcuts let you switch spectrum and intensity at the push of a button so you can capture true colours without filters. If you want a natural, white-forward look part of the day and blue-rich coral-enhancing light at other times, the hardware and software let you do that while preserving full light output.
Conclusion
The Red Sea G2 ReefLED is a thoughtful evolution of an already popular light. You get sleeker styling, improved optics, an expanded spectrum, and smarter app control with helpful safety features. If you want reef lighting that’s easier to tune and more forgiving for beginners—yet still powerful enough for SPS—the Red Sea G2 ReefLED lineup is worth a serious look.
FAQ
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Q: Which model should I choose for my tank?
A: Choose based on tank footprint and target PAR. The 60 is good for nano and shallow tanks, the 115 fits mid-sized tanks, and the 170 suits larger or deeper aquascapes. Match mounting height to Red Sea’s recommendations for even coverage.
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Q: Can I get full light output at any Kelvin setting?
A: Yes—the G2 is designed to deliver full power regardless of where you set the white/blue Kelvin slider, so you won’t lose total output when changing spectrum.
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Q: Does the app prevent me from overexposing corals?
A: The ReefBeat app includes exposure guidance and acclimation tools to help avoid harmful schedules. It’s a useful safety net if you’re not comfortable dialing in complex light programs.
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Q: Will these lights support high-light SPS?
A: According to Red Sea’s PAR data and the optics used, the G2 units provide a generous and even PAR spread suitable for everything from soft corals up to demanding SPS species.
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Q: Are the visors effective for glare control?
A: The optional clip-on visors are simple and effective for reducing glare for viewers seated lower than the tank—easy to attach and remove for cleaning.
This article was inspired from the video What Does The NEW Red Sea G2 ReefLED Bring to the Table?! | Drop a like and subscribe to show your support!
