California LightWorks SolarXtreme 500 LED vs. Prism Lighting Science Stealth 530w LED

LED Grow Light Comparison

Choosing the right LED grow light for hydroponic cultivation can directly impact yield, efficiency, and operating costs. Below we compare the California LightWorks SolarXtreme 500 LED and the Prism Lighting Science Stealth 530W LED—two high-performing fixtures we rated “most yield” and “best value” in our Top LED Grow Lights for 2021 guide. The SolarXtreme 500 is priced at $526, while the Stealth 530W comes in at $299, though it can cost ~50% more to operate. This review preserves all original specifications while optimizing clarity for hydroponic growers.

At-a-Glance: Key Takeaways for Hydroponic Growers

• Most Yield: SolarXtreme 500 delivers higher listed total PPF (900 µmol/s) with COB tech and even canopy coverage.
• Best Value: Stealth 530W has a lower upfront price, wide voltage range, and UV/IR spectrum inclusion.
• Operating Cost: SolarXtreme 500 (~400W) is cheaper to run month-to-month than the 530W Stealth.
• Footprint: Stealth 530W lists a larger veg/flower footprint on paper; SolarXtreme focuses on uniform PAR from COB.

Technical Specifications 

Performance Notes for Hydroponic Canopies

The SolarXtreme 500 (COB) design promotes more uniform PAR across the canopy from a single light, which can help reduce hotspots and shadows—useful in dense hydroponic plantings where even light distribution supports consistent flower development. The Stealth 530W provides a traditional LED array with a listed UV/IR component, appealing for growers who want supplemental spectra in late flower without adding separate bars.

Efficiency & Photosynthesis (umol/J, PPF)

Both fixtures list similar efficiency values (SolarXtreme ~2.55 µmol/J; Stealth 2.58 µmol/J), indicating strong photon output per watt for photosynthesis. Notably, the SolarXtreme’s total PPF is higher on paper (900 vs. 730 µmol/s), aligning with its “most yield” positioning when intensity is the bottleneck. Always pair intensity with proper mounting height (18" flower, 24" veg) and environmental control for best hydroponic outcomes.

What Growers Report

Grower feedback highlights the SolarXtreme 500 as a straightforward, plug-and-grow option producing dense buds and a pleasant white spectrum. One review noted it “feels like American muscle at an affordable price.” Stealth 530W reviews mention good build quality, lower heat than HPS, and true watt draw verification with a plug-in meter—useful for accurately planning electrical loads in small rooms or tents.

Cost Comparison (Operating at $0.13/kWh)

Interpretation: The Stealth 530W has a lower upfront cost but higher monthly operating cost. Over ~12 months of typical use, total spend can converge with the SolarXtreme 500. For multi-year growers, lower operating cost favors the SolarXtreme 500; for short-term or budget-limited setups, the Stealth 530W’s purchase price is compelling.

Controllers & Installation

The SolarXtreme 500 Series has no dedicated controller. Plug it into a reliable timer to match veg/flower schedules. There’s no onboard power switch; control via timer or unplug. Both fixtures ship with standard power cords; for the Stealth 530W, 240V cords are sold separately. Consider ratchet hangers for safe, precise height adjustments.

Results & Conclusions for Hydroponic Growers

If your goal is maximum intensity and yield per fixture in a small-to-medium hydroponic tent, the California LightWorks SolarXtreme 500 stands out with higher listed PPF and COB uniformity—ideal for dense canopies and quality-focused flowering.

If your priority is best upfront value with broad coverage and included UV/IR, the Prism Lighting Science Stealth 530W delivers a strong price-to-performance ratio, with the tradeoff of higher ongoing power cost.

In both cases, optimize mounting height (18" flower, 24" veg), maintain VPD and CO₂ within target ranges, and pair lighting with appropriate nutrition and airflow to fully realize each fixture’s potential in hydroponic systems.

FAQ