Controllers-need your advise

[Reefnjunkie]

So I am looking into getting a controller and don't know which ones are better than others as far as functionality, ease of use etc..
or
IF they are all that


I can get a Neptune Aquacontroller 3 w/ PX-1000 expansion module, PH and ORP probe, two temp probes, ethernet cables etc 325.00, it looks like it is around 525.00 new

I see the reefkeeper lite, level 1,2, and 3

also other Neptune lines;
Aqua Controllers Jr
Aqua Controllers III
Aqua Controllers III Pro
Aqua Controllers Apex

A little mind numbing with so many variations.

Can those who have one now or have used them in the past shed any light as to what features are important or, if there is something you don't like about a certain one and would have done something different had you known.

That one I can get seems like a great deal but if it is more than I need I'd rather spend the few dollars on something else.

Thanks for any help/suggestions

 

[mike_dani]

I am 5 months into my newest reef and this is the first time I have used a controller. I love the reef keeper lite, now I wish I would have just gone with the elite because as I started adding thihngs and thinking I found that need more modules. Well the lite can only handle 4 so I see an upgrade for an elite soon.

 

[Emoney]

Apex!!

 

[joelq]

There's definitely lots of deciding factors, but I think the main one is whether or not you want (or may want in the future) to put your controller on your network. If you are positive that you will never want this, then the "junior" or "lite" versions will likely be sufficient.

If networking is important to you, then you can't go with any of the low-end models.

Aside from these, Aquacontroller, Apex, Reefkeeper will all do the job well (not sure about the "higher-end" brands though).

 

[amay121]

+1 to joelg.

Take a look at all the equipment you may need for your tank. Then take into consideration the limitations of the lower end models (modules, things you can plug into them, etc. etc.)

That's a great price for the AC3, I'd take that if I were you. :)

 

[mike_dani]

You can use the network module on the reef keeper lite


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