Best picks

9 Best Two Foot Grow Lights (October 2026)

Updated on · By the GardenNJ team

The best 2 foot grow lights include the Barrina T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plants for shelf rows, the VIVOSUN T5 Grow Light Bulbs 2Ft for compatible T5 fixtures, and the APICDOM LED Grow Light Full Spectrum Light for red-enhanced single fixtures.

On this page (5 sections)
  1. Which 2 foot grow lights suit compact shelves and seed trays?
  2. Best two foot grow lights by setup
  3. How do you choose a 2 foot grow light for a shelf?
  4. Are LED bars or T5 bulbs better for seed trays?
  5. Which two foot grow light should you choose?

The best 2 foot grow light for most compact shelves is the Barrina T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, a four-pack with separate switches and several mounting options. For an existing T5 fixture, VIVOSUN sells replacement bulbs; for one slim bar, consider APICDOM.

A short fixture can make it easier to light one shelf section without extending over a walkway or neighboring plants. For water-based growing, compare grow lights for hydroponics by growing-area coverage.

Measure the shelf's clear length and depth, then decide whether you need one bar, multiple rows, or replacement bulbs.

Our picks at a glance

  1. 1 Barrina T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plants
    Best for shelf rows

    Barrina T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plants

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 VIVOSUN T5 Grow Light Bulbs 2Ft
    Best for compatible T5 fixtures

    VIVOSUN T5 Grow Light Bulbs 2Ft

    9.6/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 APICDOM LED Grow Light Full Spectrum Light
    Best for red-enhanced single fixtures

    APICDOM LED Grow Light Full Spectrum Light

    9.5/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  1. 4Barrina T5 Grow Lights

    Barrina T5 Grow Lights

    Best for multi-row coverage
    Check it
  2. 5TYAGMAM Grow Light

    TYAGMAM Grow Light

    Best for four-light coverage
    Check it
  3. 6TYAGMAM Grow Light

    TYAGMAM Grow Light

    Best for six-light layouts
    Check it
  4. 7Hlite 16inch LED Grow Lights

    Hlite 16inch LED Grow Lights

    Best for shelves under 2 ft deep
    Check it
  5. 8APICDOM LED Grow Light 2FT Full Spectrum

    APICDOM LED Grow Light 2FT Full Spectrum

    Best for slim shelf mounting
    Check it
  6. 9Maygrove T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plants

    Maygrove T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plants

    Best for individually switched bars
    Check it

Which 2 foot grow lights suit compact shelves and seed trays?

The right 2 foot grow light depends on whether you need an entire fixture, replacement bulbs, or several short bars for a rack. Our score weighs specs, features, and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.

We compared the stated lengths, light types, mounting choices, switch controls, and linking limits. The lineup includes fixtures close to 24 inches and a shorter 16 inch option for shelves that cannot take a full-length bar.

ProductBest forLengthLightSetupOur score
Barrina T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plantsshelf rows24 in5000K full spectrumClips, ties, magnetic bars9.7
VIVOSUN T5 Grow Light Bulbs 2Ftcompatible T5 fixtures21.5 in6500K fluorescent9.6
APICDOM LED Grow Light Full Spectrum Lightred-enhanced single fixtures23.25 in5000K plus 660nm redHanging or flush mount9.5
Barrina T5 Grow Lightsmulti-row coverage24.02 in5000K white9.5
TYAGMAM Grow Lightfour-light coverage23.6 inFull spectrum LED9.4
TYAGMAM Grow Lightsix-light layouts23 inFull spectrum LED9.3
Hlite 16inch LED Grow Lightsshelves under 2 ft deep16 inFull spectrum LED9.2
APICDOM LED Grow Light 2FT Full Spectrumslim shelf mounting23.25 in5000K plus 660nm redHanging or screw mount9.0
Maygrove T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plantsindividually switched bars23.6 in5000K plus 660nm red8.3

Best two foot grow lights by setup

These short grow lights cover different needs, from one slim fixture to packs for several shelf rows. For a different lighting technology, compare high-pressure sodium grow lights.

Compare the setup and included mounting approach with the space you actually have.

1

Barrina T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plants: Best for shelf rows

Barrina T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, 2 foot grow lights
9.7/10Our score
  • 2 ft fixtures
  • 5000K full spectrum
  • Separate switches
  • Mounting clips, ties, and magnetic bars

A four-fixture set with separate switches and several mounting options for a compact shelf or seed-starting area.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Separate on/off switch on each fixture
  • Can link up to 16 lights in series
  • Includes clips, ties, and magnetic bars

Cons

  • Four fixtures may be more than a single tray needs

Barrina's four-pack works well when you want separate control over several shelf sections. Each 24 in fixture has its own on/off switch, so you can run only the bars positioned above active trays or plants.

The kit includes clips, cable ties, magnetic bars, and double-sided tape for mounting. Barrina says the fixtures can connect in a series up to 16 lights, which gives you room to expand a shelf setup over time.

The 5000K full-spectrum light is intended for seedlings, growth, and bloom. The black housing and darker wires may also blend more easily into a plant display than white bars and cords.

Choose this set if you need multiple independently switched bars and have mounting points for them. If you only need one fixture, a single-bar option below avoids buying more lights than the shelf needs.

Barrina T5 Grow Lights for Indoor PlantsCheck it on Amazon
2

VIVOSUN T5 Grow Light Bulbs 2Ft: Best for compatible T5 fixtures

VIVOSUN T5 Grow Light Bulbs 2Ft, 2 foot grow lights
9.6/10Our score
  • 21.5 in bulbs
  • 6500K cool white
  • 24W each
  • Five-pack

Replacement T5 bulbs for buyers who already have compatible fixtures and want cool, balanced light for seedlings and foliage.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Five bulbs in a pack
  • 6500K light aimed at vegetative growth
  • Designed for close-range seedling use

Cons

  • Bulbs only, so a compatible fixture is needed

VIVOSUN's five-pack is for growers who already own compatible T5 fixtures and need replacement bulbs. These are fluorescent lamps, not complete light bars, so confirm the base and fixture compatibility before replacing bulbs.

For the differences, see fluorescent lights vs grow lights.

Each lamp is 21.5 inches long and uses 24W, with a 6500K cool white output described for vegetative growth. VIVOSUN says the balanced blue and violet spectrum helps support foliage and reduce stretching, while the bulbs are intended for close-range seedling use.

This can be a practical option when an existing fixture is in good shape and only the lamps need replacing. It isn't the right choice for someone starting from scratch without a compatible fixture.

For a full overview of the light types, read What Is the Difference Between LED and Fluorescent Grow Lights?. If you need another bulb size, compare best 4 foot grow light bulbs.

VIVOSUN T5 Grow Light Bulbs 2FtCheck it on Amazon
3

APICDOM LED Grow Light Full Spectrum Light: Best for red-enhanced single fixtures

APICDOM LED Grow Light Full Spectrum Light, 2 foot grow lights
9.5/10Our score
  • 23.25 in fixture
  • 5000K plus 660nm red
  • Link up to 4 units
  • Hanging or flush mounting

A single 2 ft class fixture with red-light enhancement and hardware for hanging or flush mounting.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Link up to 4 units
  • Inline on/off switch
  • Includes a 2 ft hanging cable

Cons

  • Single fixture rather than a multi-light pack

APICDOM's single bar suits a compact shelf that needs one complete fixture rather than a multi-pack. It measures 23.25 inches and supports hanging or flush mounting, with a 2 ft hanging cable included.

The light combines 5000K white with 660nm red enhancement. APICDOM describes the added red light for sprouting, flowering, and fruiting plants, and says up to four units can connect on one power circuit.

An inline switch keeps operation simple, while the included hardware supports different mounting arrangements. Choose it when you want one bar with options to hang it or mount it close to a shelf.

APICDOM LED Grow Light Full Spectrum LightCheck it on Amazon
4

Barrina T5 Grow Lights: Best for multi-row coverage

Barrina T5 Grow Lights, 2 foot grow lights
9.5/10Our score
  • Eight 2 ft fixtures
  • 5000K white light
  • Separate switches
  • Link up to 16 lights

An eight-fixture set for buyers setting up several shelf rows, with separate switches and linking cords.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Eight fixtures in the set
  • Includes power cords and connecting cords
  • Mounting clips, magnetic bars, and ties included

Cons

  • A large set may not suit one small growing area

This Barrina set gives you eight 2 ft bars for multiple shelves or a longer rack arrangement. The package includes four power cords with switches, seven connecting cords, small connectors, clips, magnetic bars, and cable ties.

Each bar has its own switch, so you can control lights separately or together. Barrina says up to 16 lights can link in series, making this set suited to a setup that may grow beyond a single shelf.

The 5000K white full-spectrum light is described for all growth stages. Since the set has eight fixtures, check how many rows you plan to use and where the cords will run before installing it.

Barrina T5 Grow LightsCheck it on Amazon
5

TYAGMAM Grow Light: Best for four-light coverage

TYAGMAM Grow Light, 2 foot grow lights
9.4/10Our score
  • Four 2 ft T8 fixtures
  • 100W total
  • Full spectrum
  • Link up to 8 lights

Four full-spectrum T8-style LED fixtures provide a multi-light setup for shelves, seedlings, or a small grow area.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Four fixtures in the pack
  • Includes clips and cable ties
  • Can link up to 8 lights

Cons

  • Four lights may be excessive for a single narrow shelf

TYAGMAM's four-pack provides four short LED bars for a compact grow shelf or seedling area. Each fixture measures about 23.6 inches, and the set has a stated total draw of 100W.

Clips and cable ties are included for installation. TYAGMAM says the bars can link up to eight lights in series, which can help keep a small multi-bar setup connected without a separate power cord for every unit.

Choose this pack when you need several fixtures and want to cover more than one tray or shelf section. Its multi-light layout takes more mounting points than a single light, so plan the spacing first.

TYAGMAM Grow LightCheck it on Amazon
6

TYAGMAM Grow Light: Best for six-light layouts

TYAGMAM Grow Light, 2 foot grow lights
9.3/10Our score
  • Six 2 ft T8 fixtures
  • 150W total
  • Full spectrum
  • Link up to 6 lights

A six-fixture set offers more short bars for buyers filling several shelf sections or a broader compact growing space.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Six fixtures in the pack
  • Aluminum construction
  • Can link up to 6 lights

Cons

  • Larger set needs more mounting points and space

The six-light TYAGMAM pack suits a shelf layout with several sections to illuminate. Its 23 inch T8-style bars use 25W each, and the set is described as full spectrum.

Aluminum is used for the light housing, and the fixtures can link up to six lights. The six-bar count provides flexibility in placement, but it also means you need enough shelf width, mounting spots, and cord access for the full setup.

Pick it when four bars are not enough for your intended arrangement. If your shelf is a single short run, a smaller set may be easier to fit and manage.

TYAGMAM Grow LightCheck it on Amazon
7

Hlite 16inch LED Grow Lights: Best for shelves under 2 ft deep

Hlite 16inch LED Grow Lights, 2 foot grow lights
9.2/10Our score
  • 16 in fixtures
  • 20W
  • Full spectrum
  • Link up to 6 units

Shorter than a standard 2 ft bar, these lights can fit shelf sections where a 24 in fixture is too long.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Compact 16 in length
  • Includes screws, hooks, chains, ties, and brackets
  • Can link up to 6 units

Cons

  • Does not span a full 2 ft shelf

Hlite's 16 inch bars fit shelves where a standard 2 ft fixture would be too long. The four-pack is intended for indoor shelves, potted plants, and grow tents, with a full-spectrum light for different growth stages.

Each unit uses 20W, and Hlite says up to six units can link together. The kit includes screws, hooks, chains, zip ties, and brackets, giving you several ways to attach the lights.

Measure the shelf opening carefully: these bars leave more uncovered length than a 24 inch fixture. That shorter reach can be useful for a small tray or a narrow shelf bay.

Hlite 16inch LED Grow LightsCheck it on Amazon
8

APICDOM LED Grow Light 2FT Full Spectrum: Best for slim shelf mounting

APICDOM LED Grow Light 2FT Full Spectrum, 2 foot grow lights
9.0/10Our score
  • 23.25 in slim fixture
  • 16W
  • 5000K plus 660nm red
  • Link up to 4 units

A slim single bar for tight shelf spaces, with hanging or screw-mount installation and an inline switch.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Slim 1.65 in width
  • Link up to 4 units
  • Includes a 2 ft hanging cable

Cons

  • One fixture per set

APICDOM's slim 23.25 inch fixture is a good match for a shelf where width matters. It measures 1.65 inches across and uses 16W, with 5000K light and 660nm red enhancement.

The light can hang from the included 2 ft cable or mount with screws. APICDOM says up to four bars can connect to one power cord, and an inline switch controls operation.

Choose it when a single narrow bar fits the space better than a wider fixture or multi-pack. If you need several bars, check the connection limit and cable reach before arranging them.

APICDOM LED Grow Light 2FT Full SpectrumCheck it on Amazon
9

Maygrove T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plants: Best for individually switched bars

Maygrove T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plants, 2 foot grow lights
8.3/10Our score
  • Four 2 ft strips
  • 5000K white plus 660nm red
  • Individual switches
  • Four mounting options

Four short strips with individual switches and several mounting choices for shelves, racks, or side lighting.

See it on Amazon

Pros

  • Each strip has its own switch
  • Four mounting options
  • IP63 moisture protection

Cons

  • Four-strip set may be more than a small tray needs

Maygrove's four-pack is for growers who want short bars with individual switches. Each fixture is 23.6 inches long, and the white 5000K spectrum includes 660nm red enhancement.

The lights have four mounting options, including quick-clip mounts, for shelves, racks, or side lighting. Maygrove says the strips can be controlled individually even when connected in a daisy chain, which makes it easier to light selected parts of a growing area.

The fixtures have IP63 moisture protection, according to Maygrove. Choose this set if flexible mounting and separate controls matter more than buying a single bar.

Maygrove T5 Grow Lights for Indoor PlantsCheck it on Amazon

How do you choose a 2 foot grow light for a shelf?

Measure the actual clear span first, then compare it with the fixture length and mounting hardware. A nominal 2 ft bar may be slightly shorter or longer than 24 inches, and cords or hooks need extra room.

Decide whether you need bulbs or a complete fixture. Replacement T5 bulbs only make sense if you already have compatible housings; LED bars include the light source as part of the fixture.

For a multi-row shelf, count the bars and map where each power cord will reach. Linking limits vary by model, and the number of fixtures in a pack does not always match the maximum number that can be connected.

Are LED bars or T5 bulbs better for seed trays?

LED bars are complete fixtures, while fluorescent T5 bulbs fit compatible housings. Choose based on the equipment you already have, the tray length, and whether you want one bar or several independently placed lights.

The VIVOSUN bulbs here are 6500K fluorescent lamps described for seedlings and tender foliage. The LED fixtures include 5000K options, and some add 660nm red enhancement.

Spectrum descriptions are not a substitute for checking the growing instructions for your plant and the light's recommended placement.

If a shelf needs a longer span, see our guides to best 4 foot grow lights and best two foot Feit Electric grow lights. For a small single fixture, compare the Top 7 Watt LED Grow Light and Top 7 Watt LED Grow Light guides.

Which two foot grow light should you choose?

Choose the Barrina four-pack for a compact shelf with multiple rows and separate switches, VIVOSUN bulbs for a compatible T5 fixture, or APICDOM when one slim, complete bar is enough. For a shorter shelf bay, the 16 inch Hlite lights avoid extending to a full 2 ft span.

Measure the shelf and plan how many bars you need before choosing a pack. A best 2 foot grow light should match the available length, mounting points, and number of trays you want to illuminate.

Our top 3 picks at a glance

  1. 1 Barrina T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plants
    Best for shelf rows

    Barrina T5 Grow Lights for Indoor Plants

    9.7/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  2. 2 VIVOSUN T5 Grow Light Bulbs 2Ft
    Best for compatible T5 fixtures

    VIVOSUN T5 Grow Light Bulbs 2Ft

    9.6/10 our score

    See it on Amazon
  3. 3 APICDOM LED Grow Light Full Spectrum Light
    Best for red-enhanced single fixtures

    APICDOM LED Grow Light Full Spectrum Light

    9.5/10 our score

    See it on Amazon

Frequently asked questions

How long is a 2 foot grow light?

A 2 foot grow light is usually about 24 inches long, though some fixtures are shorter. The APICDOM bars here measure 23.25 inches, while the Hlite option is 16 inches.

Measure the usable shelf space and mounting points before you choose.

Are T5 grow light bulbs the same as LED fixtures?

No. A T5 bulb is a replacement lamp that needs a compatible fixture, while an integrated LED grow light is a complete light bar.

The VIVOSUN option here is a five-pack of fluorescent bulbs.

For a quick overview, see the difference between LED and fluorescent grow lights.

Can two foot grow lights link together?

Some can. Barrina says its T5 fixtures can link up to 16 lights in series, while APICDOM says its fixtures support up to 4 units.

Check the connection limit for the exact model and plan the power cord route before mounting a row.

Will a 2 foot grow light cover a seed tray?

It can fit above a compact tray, but length alone doesn't tell you the right coverage or hanging height. Match the bar to the tray dimensions, follow the fixture instructions, and adjust placement as seedlings grow.

For several trays in rows, a multi-fixture set can make positioning easier.

Should I choose a 2 foot or 4 foot grow light?

Choose a 2 ft light for compact shelves, short racks, and individual trays. A 4 ft fixture can span a longer shelf, but only if the shelf and mounting points have enough room.

Compare four foot grow lights when your growing area is longer.