What Is the Difference Between 12V and 24V LED Strip Lights?
A 12V strip light operates on 12 volts of direct current (DC), which is one of the most common strip light voltage outputs. While this type of LED strip light is widely popular, it is more susceptible to voltage drop over long distances. Voltage drop occurs when the resistance of the wiring causes the voltage to decrease progressively as the circuit gets longer, resulting in a noticeable dimming at the end of LED strips. This makes 12V strips best suited for shorter segments or where you wish to connect the strip light directly to the existing electrical system, such as in vehicle lighting.
In contrast, a 24V strip light runs on 24-volt DC power, allowing for longer continuous runs with less voltage drop and more consistent brightness levels. For more information about 12V vs 24V strip lights, click here.
Which 12V LED Tape Light is Best For Me?
Choosing the best 12V LED tape light involves considering several key factors to ensure it meets your specific needs. First, evaluate the water resistance level, especially if the strip light will be used outdoors or in damp environments. Next, consider whether you want a white, copper, or black strip light finish. A white finish may blend seamlessly with ceilings or light-colored walls, while bronze or black finishes are preferable for darker settings.
Think about the desired brightness of your strip light, measured in lumens per foot. Higher lumens provide brighter illumination, which is ideal for task lighting. Lower lumens might be better suited for ambient lighting or interior lighting upgrades. Finally, decide which color option is best suited for your application. For a unique, bold aesthetic, choose a color-changing or single-color 12V strip light. For a classic lighting solution, opt for one of our single CCT or tunable white strips.
LED Strip Light Series Breakdown
Super Bright LEDs offers several strip light series based on different features.
- Our COB Series LED light strips produce a seamless, high-density line of light without visible dots. Since they emit no hotspots, these strips are a smart choice for reflective surfaces.
- The DynamicColor Series features color-changing strip lights like RGB, Tunable White, RGBW, and RGB + Tunable White options.
- Our standard and most affordable strips are found in our Eco Series. These lights are available in single-color and CCT options.
- HighLight Series strip lights feature high-quality 2835 LED chips, making them ideal for contractors and commercial applications.
- The Radiant Series includes our strip lights that are considered “industry standard.” These strips are highly reliable and great for home use.
What Power Supply Do I Need for a 12 Volt DC LED Strip Light?
To choose the right power supply, you’ll need to know the following:
- The power consumption (in W/ft) of your strip
- The length of your strip light
- The voltage of your strip light (in this case, 12V)
- If you want a dimmable or non-dimmable power supply
Using our power supply calculator, you can plug in this information to find a compatible power supply.
