Choosing the Right Voltage for Your LED Strip Lights: 12V or 24V?

Choosing the Right Voltage for Your LED Strip Lights: 12V or 24V?

What’s the Deal with 12V and 24V?

First off, let’s clear up what we mean by 12V and 24V. These numbers refer to the voltage of the LED strip lights. In simple terms, voltage is the electrical force that powers your lights. Both 12V and 24V LED strips are popular choices, and each has its own set of pros and cons.

12V LED Strips:

  • Pros:
    • Easier to find in stores.
    • More flexible options for DIY projects.
    • Great for smaller setups.
  • Cons:
    • Shorter max run length before voltage drop occurs.
    • Slightly less efficient in terms of power delivery.


(image: G Bright 12V High Density SMD2835 LED Strip Light)

24V LED Strips:

  • Pros:
    • Longer continuous runs without noticeable dimming.
    • More efficient power delivery over longer distances.
    • Typically better for larger installations.
  • Cons:
    • Fewer accessories and components readily available compared to 12V.
    • Can be more expensive upfront.

(image: G Light 24V COB LED Strip Light)

Tools Needed

To get started with your LED strip light project, here are some tools you might need:

  • LED strip lights (12V or 24V)
  • Power supply (matching the voltage of your strips)
  • Soldering kit (for secure connections)
  • Connectors and splitters (if needed)
  • Measuring tape (to plan your installation)
  • Adhesive backing or mounting brackets
  • Wire cutters and strippers

How to Choose the Right Voltage

  1. Assess Your Project Size: If you’re lighting up a small area like under a cabinet or a shelf, 12V strips might be your best bet. They’re easier to handle for short runs and have plenty of accessories to help you out.

  2. Consider Run Length: For longer runs (think accent lighting around a room or along a hallway), 24V strips are the way to go. They can handle longer distances without suffering from voltage drop, which can cause dimming towards the end of the strip.

  3. Check Availability and Accessories: 12V LED strips have been around longer and thus have more accessories and connectors available. If you need specific connectors or controllers, make sure they’re available for the voltage you choose.

  4. Think About Efficiency: If energy efficiency is a big concern for you, 24V strips are typically more efficient, especially over longer runs. They require less current, which means less heat and potentially longer life for your LEDs.

Tips and Recommendations

  • Match Your Power Supply: Always use a power supply that matches the voltage of your LED strips. Using a 24V power supply with 12V strips (or vice versa) can damage your lights and be a safety hazard.

  • Use a Dimmer: Adding a dimmer to your setup gives you control over the brightness and can help extend the life of your LEDs by not running them at full power constantly.

  • Plan Your Layout: Measure and plan where you want to install your strips before you start. This helps you figure out how much strip you need and where to place the power supply.

  • Watch for Voltage Drop: For 12V strips, if you need longer runs, consider injecting power at multiple points or using amplifiers to maintain consistent brightness.

  • Consider Future Expansion: If you think you might want to expand your lighting setup in the future, 24V strips give you more flexibility with longer runs and more powerful configurations.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between 12V and 24V LED strip lights boils down to your specific needs and the scope of your project. For smaller, more localized installations, 12V strips are convenient and easy to work with. For larger areas and longer runs, 24V strips provide better efficiency and consistent lighting.

So, grab your tools, measure your space, and get ready to transform your room with beautiful, energy-efficient LED lighting. Happy DIYing!

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About Us

G Light LEDs is a customer-focused company aimed at providing the highest quality lighting solutions at the most affordable prices, whether for small DIY, residential, commercial, events, or prototype projects.

In addition to offering high-quality lighting products, G Light LEDs takes pride in its industry-best customer support, from the design phase to after sales.

G Light LEDs is committed to delivering the "Good Light, Good Life" experience in every project.

Try us. We're here to help. Send us an email at sales@glightleds.com or call us at 888-401-7144; our lighting experts will be more than happy to hear from you!

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