While magnetic MH and HPS ballasts are far less popular than digital ballasts these days, we still carry a wide selection here at Hydrobuilder! We understand that some growers prefer to stick to a tried and true technology they are familiar with. And, some older grow lights may only work with magnetic ballasts.

Why are magnetic MH and HPS ballasts less popular than digital ballasts?

We don't want to scare you away, but we want to be honest - magnetic ballasts are inferior to digital ballasts. They run way hotter, consume more energy, are noisy, and create RFI interference sometimes - which can be irritating for anyone who has to experience it, including neighbors.

On the other hand, digital ballasts don't create much heat or noise. They also run up to 30% more efficient, saving you money on your electric bill. Most of these are dimmable, which can save you even more money. They also feature RFI shielding, preventing any radio intereference.

So, if you aren't already sold on magnetic MH and HPS ballasts, we encourage you to check out their digital counterparts.

Not sure which magnetic ballast is right for you?

You'll find the top brands at the lowest prices on our site here, including favorites such as Sun System, Xtrasun, and Hydrofarm. If you are a commercial grower looking for special pricing on a bulk order, give our experts a call at 888-815-9763.