Side by side growth comparison using t8' vs t5'

[schill93]

I am still struggling over purchasing my indoor lighting system. I need a minimum of two and possibly 3 (I figure) 4' 4 tubers. I have decided on the Hydrofarm Designer but have been giving some consideration to only buying one starting out and then perhaps trying a T8 setup as well.

It is not the additional cost of the unit itself, but most reviews I have read complain about the poor quality bulbs that are supplied with the units and the need to buy better bulbs, which we all know cost considerably more than T8 bulbs.

I also am considering the reliability of the T5 units as there are so many complaints about bad ballasts after a short time. So my question is..............

Has anybody done a side by side comparison using both setups? Is growth appreciably better using T5's over T8's. Do plants look healthier using T5's.

The one positive that I have read that appeals to me from people who have switched to T5's is that hardening off is often not necessary.

If you have purchased t5's, which system did you get. They have some very reasonable ones, but so many of the reviews refer to them as junk. Very confusing.

Love to hear your experiences.