Growing cannabis in your home can seem like a lofty task. The statement is even truer when you consider scenarios like prying neighbors, new visitors to your home, or surprise inspections from landlords. However, a grow tent is essential if you want to cover up your plants and produce quality buds.
A grow tent isn’t just for hiding cannabis away; it’s perfectly legal to grow in ten separate states and the entirety of Canada, so the need to be secretive about your botanic passion isn’t quite as pressing as it has been in previous years.
Grow tents all come with numerous features that make growing cannabis incredibly simple. From reflective interiors to double-stitched zippers and observation windows, the best 4×4 grow tents have many of these qualities.
But with so many on the market, which one is the best?
Well, that all depends on personal preference. Regardless, you’re going to want to know what makes a great grow tent stand out among mediocre options on the market. When it comes to grow tents, quality is a must, and that’s what we had in mind when we compiled our list of the absolute best 4×4 grow tents for 2022.
Without further ado, here are our top picks for the ten best 4×4 grow tents on the market, as well as pros and cons, features, and links for each product on your list.
1. VIVOSUN Mylar Hydroponic Grow Tent with Observation Window and Floor Tray
Features
- Tear-proof 600D canvas tenting
- Easy to use zippers
- Sturdy metal frame
- Easy access observation window
Pros
- Clear thought put into practicality and durability
- Easy to assemble, all pieces provided
- Provides consistent humidity and temperature
Cons
- View through an observation window can sometimes become distorted
- Light leaks from the zipper stitching noted by some reviewers
Verdict
The tear-proof fabric and durability make the VIVOSUN the number one contender in our reviews. The light leaking from the zipper stitching is a drawback, but with a bit of creative patching, it shouldn’t be a problem. For a reliable 4×4 tent from a trusted cannabis tent creator, VIVOSUN is your best bet.
2. Apollo Horticulture Mylar Hydroponic Grow Tent
Apollo is another brand that is well-known for its high-quality equipment, and its Hydroponic grow tent is no exception. Apollo designed this product with light protection in mind. The tent features sturdy zippers and double-stitched seams to keep in the light. Plus, metal poles reinforce the thick tenting to ensure security and to make sure your tent doesn’t start collapsing any time soon.
Features
- 100% light-proof
- Designed with tear-proof Mylar lining
- Outer tenting works to contain odor
- Reinforced metal framework
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Comes with a full instruction manual for easy setup
- Includes a 90-day warranty
Cons
- Despite the 100% light-proof claim, some reviewers experienced leaks.
Verdict
Provided by a respected name and alongside a ninety-day warranty, the Apollo is a safe option when divulging into the world of grow tents, and doesn’t sacrifice quality for the sake of reliability.
3. Hydroplanet Thick Canvas Mylar Tent 48x48x80 Hydroponic 600D 4’x4′
Features
- 100% reflective mylar material
- Tear-proof tenting
- Completely washable interior and exterior
- 2-year warranty
Pros
- Easy to set up and use
- Fully washable
- Made from 100% reflective and tear-proof mylar
Cons
- Some reviewers complained that the quality of the zippers was poor.
Verdict
The Hydroplanet grow tent prides itself on its simplicity, but this may be its shortfall. Though it certainly performs well and isn’t a cheap bit of kit by any stretch, it does fall short compared to other grow tents on this list. However, this is still a better option than most grow tents on the market.
4. Gorilla Lite LTGGT44 Grow Tent
Features
- The insect-proof outer layer of micro-mesh
- Solid metal hanging fame
- Environmentally friendly due to complete lack of plastic
Pros
- Large in height, with purchasable extensions available if necessary
- All hung on a solid metal frame to maintain shape
- Insect proof through the use of micro-mesh
Cons
- Potentially too large for some purchasers
- Can be difficult to assemble for those new to grow tents
Verdict
Though it may not be the ideal option for someone new to the world of grow tents, if you have the experience behind you, there’s no reason not to give the Gorilla grow tent a try.
5. Gorilla Grow Tent LITE (4′ x 4′)
Features
- Powerful LED panel lighting
- Highly reflective interior
- High-quality air controllers for efficient temperature control
Pros
- All the required features of a grow tent, just in a more manageable size
- Strong tenting on the exterior
- Energy-efficient LED lighting on the interior
Cons
- The price point is comparatively high for its size.
Verdict
For those who require a grow tent of a manageable size, the Gorilla LITE is perfect. Those who are more experienced and potentially have the room for a giant tent may feel disappointed in what the LITE provides.
6. LAGarden Grow Tent Indoor Hydroponics
Features
- Large, zip front door for easy access
- Three zip-open windows for observations
- Two double-vents to ensure heat regulation
Pros
- Numerous features available to provide optimal results
- Sturdy metal frame for durability
- Thick exterior with a highly reflective interior
Cons
- Some reviews report light leaks through the zipping.
Verdict
The LAGarden has a variety of features that set it apart from the crowd and make it a highly effective purchase. Just be cautious of the potential for light leaks reported via the zips of the many observation windows/doors.
7. iPower Hydroponic Mylar Grow Tent
Features
- Waterproof mylar floor that is removable for cleaning
- Double layer ventilation ducting holes
- Bottom ventilation windows to prevent overheating
Pros
- Designed to prevent light leaking
- Very sturdy frame capable of holding excess weight
- One year manufacturer warranty
Cons
- No windows on the door of a grow tent can make observation a little difficult.
Verdict
The iPower grow tent is widely considered an excellent value for money and has no reports of light leaking due to its double-stitched heavy-duty zippers. Some users have suggested that the tenting can feel somewhat cheap, but it’s not enough to ward off recommending a purchase.
8. MallMall Indoor Hydroponics Mylar Grow Tent Room
Features
- Observation window on the door of the grow tent
- Connectors used for the assembly of the frame allow tool-free set-up
- Easy setup
Pros
- A favorable price point for the quality of the product
- Sturdy frame and poles provided
Cons
- The quality of the zippers isn’t as strong compared to other ‘heavy-duty zipper’ grow tents.
Verdict
For the price, the MallMall grow tent stands up to value for money. It may not be suitable for those able to pay a little extra for a product of improved quality, especially with regards to the zippers.
9. High Rise Grow Tent 4′ x 4′
Features
- 100% light-proof from both interior and exterior due to light-proof backing
- Ceiling bars are as sturdy as the entire framework, allowing for the hanging of lights/fans/growing equipment
Pros
- High durability from the steel framework
- 100% light-proof from the inside out
- Dual cinching duct ports for air sealing around cords
- Less expensive
Cons
- On the cheaper side, which may indicate lower quality
Verdict
Overall, the High Rise is a safe purchase. The light-blocking zippers are a strong sale point, as well as the sturdy steel frame. The price point may be something to be wary of, but the company insists in its description that the low price is in no way indicative of reduced quality.
10. CoolGrows Indoor Mylar Hydroponics Grow Tent
Features
- 99% light-proof reflective mylar interior
- 600D thread intensity exterior tenting
- Tear-proof and water-resistant
- Removable waterproof tray in the bottom to catch any excess
- Easy to assemble design
Pros
- Perfect for beginners
- Designed to keep in the light, with 99% reflectivity and practical zipper lining
- Can fit into any apartment inconspicuously due to its black design, making it almost resemble a wardrobe
Cons
- While handy, the instruction manual doesn’t cover all bases (such as how to attach the canvas material)
Verdict
If you’re a beginner, this is a fantastic choice for you. It comes with an (almost) fully fleshed out the instruction manual, and the manufacturer assures that should any questions arise, there’s an excellent service team on standby to help.
How to Choose from the Best 4×4 Grow Tents – Buyer’s Guide
As you can probably tell, choosing the grow tent that best suits your needs can get pretty complicated. There are so many features to take into account. Plus, it’s challenging to determine which two tents possess the same impressive features that are going to suit your needs the most. Luckily, this is where some discerning self-review can help out.
How Big Should a Grow Tent Be?
The first thing you’re going to need to consider is the size: how much room can you give up for your grow tent?
It’s no good buying one of the more sizable options only to discover, upon delivery, that you have nowhere to put it. Many of them may have an inconspicuous design, but there’s no hiding a grow tent half the size of your bedroom.
Plant Count
Next, think about how many plants you want to put inside your grow tent. The question might seem similar to the above, but it differs in that some grow tents favor width over height. The size can affect the amount that you’re growing and how effective your particular tent is at supporting that growth.
The majority of grow tents can fit around four plants, but it’s essential to know your measurements and intentions before making any orders.
Light Wattage and Ventilation
In terms of wattage, you’re looking at around 600 watts.
This number varies based on who you ask, and can also be changed based upon how reflective the interior of your grow tent is. However, 600 watts is the recommended approximate figure.
In terms of ventilation, that depends on three elements:
- The basic exhaust
- The duct fan
- The carbon filter
Mostly, carbon filters don’t come included with grow tents, but it’s easily a feature you can add later. You should use these filters if the odor is a concern for you. Carbon filters mask the highly distinctive smell of cannabis.
A popular form of ventilation is an active intake, which is comprised of one fan blowing air into the tent and another blowing air out again, working together to maintain balance.
Ideal Temperatures for Growing
Similarly to deciding what height your grow tent should be, the temperature also depends on a variety of individual factors. Roughly, you should keep your tent at a temperature somewhere between 70 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperature is an aspect where additional accessories can come in handy. With fans and heaters, you can better control the resting temperature of your tent.
Setting Up the Tent
The set-up is something to which you quickly become once you gain experience with grow tents. However, when you first start, it can be a bit of a daunting task. There are many different parts involved, and they all need applying effectively to achieve the optimal results. You will need to pay attention to the metal framework, tenting, the vents, and whatever other additional accessories you’ve selected.
For new-buyers, as tempting as it might be to do so, don’t chuck your instruction manual away along with the unnecessary packaging. No one likes reading hefty instructions, but when it comes to grow tents, you’re going to learn to appreciate all of that information telling you what to do.
Additional Features
Knowing which accessories are vital and which are just optional aesthetic choices can be another area a lot of buyers are confused about, so we’ll break down some of the basics for you.
The last thing you want to do, especially if you’re on a budget, is to spend a considerable amount of money only to discover half the stuff you bought wasn’t even necessary.
As mentioned above, carbon filters don’t always arrive in all grow tents as they’re not integral to the process, but they are handy for masking the smell. Various lamps can be helpful to improve observation within the tent, and heated lamps can help to maintain humidity. Most grow tents come equipped with the essentials though, and they are
- The framework
- The tenting
- Reflective interior
- Sturdy zip lock doors/windows
Provided you at least have those, you should be good to go. You always can add accessories later!
Final Thoughts
All in all, the best 4×4 grow tent is the one that suits your personal needs, while also providing the highest quality. Discover which tent is best for you based on your growth goals as well as the best size for your space.
An expensive, flashy design won’t do you much good if you don’t know how to make use of all the features. Assess your skill level – then match yourself with the best grow tent on the list.