The EcoTech Radion lighting series has long been a favourite in the reef-keeping world. With the release of the Radion G6, reef aquarists are asking the big question: What’s different from the G5, and is it worth upgrading? In this guide, we’ll compare the G6 and G5 models head-to-head and help you decide if the new features justify the switch.
Optical Performance: G6 HEI2 Lens vs G5 HEI Lens
One of the most noticeable advancements in the G6 is the new HEI2 (Hemispherical Edge Illumination 2) optical design, a refinement of the G5’s original HEI system. This update spreads light more evenly and improves blending, reducing shadowing and creating a smoother, more natural appearance in your aquarium.
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G5 HEI: Already a major leap forward, but had more defined “hot spots” of light.
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G6 HEI2: Offers wider, more diffused coverage — especially noticeable in shallow and mid-depth tanks.
Verdict: If your goal is to maximize coral coverage and uniformity of PAR, the G6 wins here hands down.
Spectrum Enhancements: A Deeper Blue
Both the G5 and G6 offer full-spectrum output, but the G6 introduces a new “Blue” model with extended coverage into the violet and UV ranges (including 395nm and 405nm diodes). This spectrum supports increased fluorescence and enhanced coral coloration — particularly for SPS-dominated systems.
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G5 Pro & Blue: Excellent spectrum, but lacked those deeper violet/UV channels.
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G6 Pro & Blue: Wider spectral range, more refined coral response.
Verdict: Coral lovers chasing colour pop and fluorescence will see real visual benefits from the G6 spectrum upgrades.
Control Experience: Same Mobius App, Smoother Output
The Radion G5 and G6 both use the Mobius platform, so there’s no difference in app experience or control capabilities. However, G6’s improved optics and spectrum make predefined Mobius templates (like Coral AB+) even more visually impressive.
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App Compatibility: Equal across both versions.
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Light Output Consistency: Enhanced with G6’s better diffusion.
Verdict: If you already love Mobius, the G6 will feel familiar — just better optimized for visual and coral performance.
Cooling, Noise, and Build Quality
Physically, the G6 retains the sleek, minimalistic design of the G5 with robust cooling systems and passive airflow. While decibel output is similar, users have noted quieter fan operation on G6 units, especially when operating at full intensity.
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G5: Quiet but audible under load.
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G6: Whisper-quiet performance even at peak output.
Verdict: An incremental but welcome improvement for silent tank operation.
Should You Upgrade?
Here’s a quick summary based on your situation:
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You Are… |
Should You Upgrade? |
|---|---|
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Running G4 or older |
✔️ Definitely — G6 is a huge leap in performance |
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Running G5 and want better coral coloration or spread |
✔️ Yes — G6 optics and spectrum will visibly improve results |
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Happy with G5 and on a budget |
❌ Not urgent — G5 is still excellent, especially for casual reefers |
Final Thoughts: G6 Is the Best Yet — But Not Mandatory
The EcoTech Radion G6 builds on everything reefers loved about the G5 and polishes it with improved optical performance, spectral tuning, and better coverage. If you’re chasing ultimate coral health and vibrant colour, or building a new reef from scratch, the G6 is a worthy investment.
However, if your G5 is performing well and your tank is thriving, you’re not missing out on any must-have software features — the G5 still holds its own in 2025.
