I bought an $85 1000W led bank off wish just to see how it does, for veg it wasn’t strong enough and I’ve had to sub in 5 CFL’s and so for around $250 i have enough power now... so it can be done on the cheap. Being it’s my first grown I’d say lesson learned.
Ya for 250 you could have some QBs.
Dont feel bad, I started with a 300w Blurple.
My best advice for anyone on a budget is go DIY on your light, figure out what u want and piece it together over time.
I decided I wanted four 304 quantum boards, even though its over kill for my 36x32.
But i got my driver big enough for four 304s one month and then the two 304s the next. That was Nov 17'... i just got my last two 304s a few weeks ago.
Grew some totally good herb with just the two, but the 4 is really gonna kill it in there.