Many of our customers are looking to install LED Strip Lights in their homes, but they often find themselves stuck when deciding which voltage to choose. At LEDSave, we carry both 12V and 24V LED strips, but determining which one suits your project best can sometimes feel overwhelming. Let’s break it down and help you make an informed decision.
Thankfully, the differences between these two options are relatively straightforward. In this article, we’ll walk you through the key distinctions so you can confidently select the right LED strip for your needs.
Below is a side-by-side comparison of our two most popular LED strip lights:
| Specification | 12V LED Strip | 24V LED Strip |
|---|---|---|
| Type | LED Strip | LED Strip |
| Function | Single colour | Single colour |
| Available CCTs | 3000K / 4000K / 6000K | 3000K / 4000K / 6000K |
| Voltage | 12V | 24V |
| Power / m | 12W | 12W |
| Power / 5m roll | 60W | 60W |
| Efficacy | 85lm/W | 85lm/W |
| Total light output | 5100lm | 5100lm |
| Beam angle | 120° | 120° |
| Max continuous run | 5m | 10m |
| PCB Colour | White | White |
| Dimmable | With optional controller / dimmable driver | With optional controller / dimmable driver |
| Cut intervals | 50mm | 100mm |
| LED Type | 5050 SMD | 5050 SMD |
| IP rating | IP20 | IP20 |
| Self adhesive tape | 3M 300LSE | 3M 300LSE |
| Dimension (W) | 10mm | 10mm |
| PCB weight | 2.5 oz | 2.5 oz |
| Certification | CE RoHS | CE RoHS |
| Estimated lifetime | 30,000 hrs | 30,000 hrs |
| Guarantee | 3 years | 3 years |
Spotting the differences? The main distinction lies in the maximum length each strip can cover. While 12V strips are limited to about 5 meters of continuous run, 24V strips can extend up to 10 meters without losing brightness due to voltage drop.
Understanding 12V vs 24V LED Strip Lights
Now that you’ve got the basics covered, let’s dive deeper into the nuances of each option. Remember, your LED lights could last for over 25,000 hours, so this decision will impact your lighting experience for the next 5-10 years!
What Are LED Strip Lights?
LED strip lights are essentially flexible circuit boards embedded with LEDs. Their flexibility allows you to bend and shape them according to your design needs. Whether it’s for accent lighting, under-cabinet illumination, or decorative purposes, LED strips are versatile and energy-efficient.
Voltage Fundamentals
Voltage refers to the electrical potential difference between two points. For LED strips, this voltage determines the amount of power needed to operate the lights. Common choices include 12V and 24V systems, each with its own set of pros and cons.
Advantages and Disadvantages of 12V LED Strips
Pros of 12V LED Strips:
- Simpler Installation: Since 12V strips require less power, they’re ideal for shorter runs and simpler setups.
- More Versatile for Smaller Projects: With cut intervals every 50mm, 12V strips allow for greater precision when designing intricate lighting solutions like under-cabinet lighting or accent pieces.
- Abundant Options: There’s a wide range of 12V LED strips available, giving you plenty of choices to match your project requirements.
Cons of 12V LED Strips:
- Potential Voltage Drop: Over long distances, 12V strips can suffer from voltage drop, causing the lights at the far end to appear dimmer than those closer to the power source.
- Limited Distance: Due to the voltage drop issue, 12V strips are not ideal for long runs unless additional power supplies are added.
Advantages and Disadvantages of 24V LED Strips
Pros of 24V LED Strips:
- Lower Voltage Drop: 24V strips maintain consistent brightness over longer distances because they experience less voltage drop.
- Longer Continuous Runs: 24V strips can cover up to 10 meters without compromising brightness, making them perfect for large-scale projects.
- Increased Efficiency: Higher voltage systems are generally more energy-efficient. Doubling the voltage halves the current required, leading to lower energy consumption over time.
Cons of 24V LED Strips:
- Less Flexible for Small Projects: With cut intervals at 100mm, 24V strips are less suitable for intricate designs that require precise cuts.
- Reduced Availability: Although the selection is growing, there are still fewer options available in 24V compared to 12V, limiting customization possibilities.
Making the Right Choice for Your Project
Length of the Run Matters
If your project involves a lengthy LED strip installation, opting for 24V strips would be advisable. The reduced voltage drop ensures uniform brightness across the entire length. For shorter runs or detailed work, 12V strips are often easier to handle and more cost-effective.
Power Supply Considerations
Your power supply plays a critical role in your LED strip setup. For extensive installations, you’ll likely need a more robust power supply. Thanks to their lower current requirements, 24V systems can deliver power more efficiently. Always ensure your power supply matches the voltage of your LED strips and provides sufficient wattage for your setup.
Flexibility and Cutting Needs
When working on projects that demand cutting the strips into numerous small sections, such as intricate accent lighting or custom backlighting, 12V strips are typically the better choice. Their shorter cut intervals (50mm) allow for greater precision and adaptability.
Energy Efficiency
If energy efficiency is a priority, consider the overall length and usage of your LED strips. While both 12V and 24V systems can be efficient, 24V systems tend to perform better over longer distances, resulting in reduced energy costs over time.
Final Thoughts
Both 12V and 24V LED strip lights come with their own set of benefits and are suited to different types of projects. By evaluating factors like the length of the run, power supply requirements, flexibility, and energy efficiency, you can select the optimal solution for your needs.
At LEDSave, we’re here to assist you in finding the perfect LED strip lights and accessories for your project. Whether you’re enhancing your kitchen, adding stylish accent lighting, or undertaking a large-scale installation, we have the products and expertise to help you succeed.
Explore our complete LED Light Strip collection here.
Feel free to reach out to us with any questions or for tailored advice on choosing the right LED strip lights for your project. Happy lighting!
Updated: 31-07-2024
Tactical Belts,Tactical Leather Belt,Tactical Gun Belts,Tactical Gun Belt Rig
Foshan Dragon Edge Outdoor Equipment Co., Ltd , https://www.dragon-edge.com