[MeiKVR6]

T5s have the highest efficiency, for sure... If you are trying to save money - Standard black T8 fixtures from lowes are under $30 and the 48" bulbs are cheap too. That's what we've been using for years and we've had excellent plant growth... Plus the fixtures (knock on wood) have lasted 4 years so far since we switched from the crap "American Standard" brand lighting from WalMart.

 

[MeiKVR6]

I think I am going to run to lowes and grab the 48" t8 fixture to save some money, what kind of bulb should I get? And can the bulb also be acquired from lowes?

Yep! We use 1 6500K and one 5500K bulb in each fixture, but two 6500K would work, too. (They are sold in packs of two)