Anyone running the reefkeeper over the apex?

mallorieGgator · Jan 23, 2017

Curious because I see all Apex. Why one over the other? Trying to decide which to go with.

Elementalj · Jan 23, 2017

I chose the reefkeeper because the initial cost was lower. Haven't really had a complaint, but prepare to see the barrage of hey you should choose Apex over any other! [emoji12]

mallorieGgator · Jan 23, 2017

Thanks! I want to know what people think makes Apex better.

Elementalj · Jan 23, 2017

The biggest difference is cloud computing. The apex is cloud capable out of the box unless you buy the Junior. Digital aquatics doesn't really offer anything within a cloud just yet and the archon which is supposed to be the rival to the apex just isn't there yet.

mallorieGgator · Jan 23, 2017

Ok. Don't laugh but what in the world is the cloud for?

Elementalj · Jan 23, 2017

They have a system setup so that you can monitor and adjust the controller via the web. It's really genius to be honest. I just couldn't afford it at the time I was setting this system up. Neptune systems is the newer kid on the block with regards to controllers where as digital aquatics was just coming out when I left the hobby ten years ago. Both apex and reefkeeper have their own communities for support and programming. They both have ups and downs with customer service as of late so there's that as well. When it comes to build quality they're both pretty equal. Having played with all three major controllers as of recently I'm going to eventually move to GHL Profilux for my display and keep the reefkeeper for the frag and quarantine tanks.

Scott.h · Jan 23, 2017

I don't have any experience with the reef keeper. I put off buying an apex because I was afraid of the big instruction manual and writing code. Or more that I didn't want to spend the money and not utilize it properly. Now that it's cloud based with fusion it's convenient, and not near as bad as I thought it would be. Btw with the junior, it can still be controlled via Mobil device through fusion. Have one of those on the work tank. The new model on one of the home tanks,contemplating at least a junior on the second home tank. Cheap insurance and upgradable. Personally I think Neptune forum sucks. It's better to hook up with someone you can have a real conversation with or direct support. But I'm glad I have the new model, utilizing the power consumption power bar, and like not having to have the extra modules.

pickupman66 · Jan 23, 2017

I'm running the archon controller and am pleased. Had reef keeper for 6 years and am happy. Never gotten the bug to Apex.

Elementalj · Jan 23, 2017

pickupman66 said:
I'm running the archon controller and am pleased. Had reef keeper for 6 years and am happy. Never gotten the bug to Apex.

Have they got the cloud up? I scanned the official forums the other day and didn't see anything mentioned. I love my reefkeeper, and have zero doubts about this capability, but I'd eventually like remote access.