In addition.. that setup I mentioned only draws 80watts total, and delivers 6,800 lumens (3,400 per tube), but that isn't what's important, what's important is that this is an ideal light spectrum and light source for vegetating plants, and just happens to be affordable. Because it is a linear light source, the plants will branch out and have a very "full" presense, because leaves will more freely spread, yes, a Metal Halide lamp or HPS Lamp will produce more light and make the stalk and stems thicker, but if you have to start out on a budget, there is no better substitute whatsoever.