Replacing T5 With T8?

I recently set up my 6ft tank after 3 years In Storage. I bought a new filter system but not new lights yet. I have T5 light bulbs which gives me 39 watts per bulb Times 8 bulbs =312 watts which is about 2.5 watts per gallon. I don’t want to spend a ton of money but wouldn’t mind upgrading my watts if possible for plants. Right now my plants are getting brown and look weak. Are T8 bulbs a better option and will they fit into my existing ballasts? If not I would just purchase new T5. LED is just $$$$

 

https://ballastshop.com/difference_between_tubes

 

https://ballastshop.com/difference_between_tubes

Well that answers a lot. Thanks!

 

What color are the T5 tubes?

Going from T5 to T8 is going back ik time.

 

If you want to swap your t5 tubes out for plants you should be able to find 65k daylight bulbs at any home improvement store.