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What LED strip light should you choose - 24V or 12V?

At the LED line® Light Research and Measurement Centre we conducted a study to compare the actual differences between 24V and 12V tape.  

Two LED line® RGB Classic 240522 and 240539 LED line® strip lights were tested, one powered by 12V and one by 24V. The analysis consisted of examining the chromaticity coordinates and voltage drops depending on the length of the section supplied on one side. The test was carried out in two configurations:

The lengths of the tested strips correspond to the recommended lengths to be supplied on both sides.  

Conclusions:  

Both tested strip lights have the same power consumption. As a result of doubling the supply voltage, the current will decrease twice. Similarly, the voltage drop on the strip light decreases by half, so looking from the other side we can double the length of the strip while maintaining the same electrical parameters. 

 

With large voltage drops, the chromaticity coordinates change to such an extent that differences in the perception of light colour are visible, so that an average observer will notice the difference.

If you want to keep the same luminous flux over a long section of strip without additional power supply, connected every 5m, you should definitely choose 24V strip. You will avoid voltage drops and visible changes in light colour.

LED strips are mainly used for decorative lighting and marking of “traffic routes”/passageways. They are most often used in banquet halls, restaurants, shopping centres and for home use. In case of large investments, the need to use 24V strips seems to be undeniable, as long sections of strips are used there and voltage drops over long distances will affect irregularity in lighting intensity.

What about domestic applications? It should be noted that home automation devices operate on 24V power supplies, so it is worthwhile to use strip lights that can be integrated into all devices even at home. Moreover, thanks to lower current flows, thinner cables can be used, which will make it easier to mask or hide them.

Do you have a lot of questions about light? Maybe you want to check the differences between the two products you have chosen? Get in touch with us! We will conduct research and publish our findings.