Guide to the types of LED strips: Choosing the perfect lighting for your home!

The LED lighting market is constantly evolving, offering users a wide range of products that can vary significantly in terms of functionality, quality and price. One of the more popular solutions, which has gained recognition among both professionals and amateur interior decorators, are LED strips. Available in different variants, they allow for creative and flexible lighting of spaces, tailored to individual needs and preferences. In the following text, we will take a closer look at the types of LED strips available on the market.

We divide LED strips according to

Type of diodes used:

• The first of these is the 3528 diode (3.5 x 2.8 mm), characterised by low power consumption at the same time as low purchase costs. The light emitted (typically 2 to 6 lm) allows for satisfactory decorative illumination of cabinets, the edges of suspended ceilings or decorative lighting of skirting boards.
• The second type of LEDs are the 5050 (5 x 5 mm). More powerful, they consume slightly more current, which translates into a proportionally higher luminous flux (9.5- 16 lm), which affects the functionality of the tape's use, e.g. as side lighting for stairs.
• LED 2835 is the third type of LED fitted in tapes. Thanks to the very high quality of the light emitted, as well as its low consumption and increased life span, it is classified as one of the most economical tapes.

Light colour and colour temperature: 

• Single-colour LED strips. These are the simplest and most versatile solutions, offering constant illumination in a single colour. They are available in different shades of light, from warm white (2700-3000K) to neutral (3300-4000K) to cold white light (4500-6500K), allowing the lighting to be tailored to the character of the room and the user's preferences. Single-colour strips are often used for accent lighting, to highlight interior architecture or as practical work lighting.
• RGB LED strips that allow the colours of the light to be changed. Thanks to the use of RGB LEDs, the user can enjoy a full colour palette and adapt the lighting to their mood, the occasion or even the season. RGB strips are often controlled via remote control, mobile app or even by voice, further enhancing the user experience. They are ideal for those looking for dynamic and creative lighting to create a unique atmosphere in any space.

• LED strips with a colour temperature control function are also available on the market. These allow the colour of the light to change smoothly from warm white to cold, which has a direct impact on the perception of the space and the well-being of the people in it. These strips are particularly recommended for areas where it is important to be able to adapt the nature of the lighting to different activities - for example, in the kitchen or office.

Supply voltage for LED strips:

• The most popular supply voltages for LED strips are 12V and 24V. These are safe to use and are ideal for domestic or commercial applications. 12V power strips are often chosen for smaller projects where the strip length is not long, such as for shelf illumination or as auxiliary lighting. 24V tapes, on the other hand, are better suited to longer installations as there is less power loss along the length of the tape at this voltage, meaning that longer lengths of tape can be connected together without worrying about a drop in brightness at the ends.

• There are also LED strips available in other voltages such as 5V, 36V or even 48V, but these are less common and usually used in more specialised applications. The supply voltage affects the choice of power supply and, in some cases, the driver, so it is important to plan the installation carefully and check what accessories will be needed for a particular LED strip before purchasing. Regardless of the voltage chosen, it is important to use quality components to ensure the safety and longevity of the entire lighting installation.

Protection class of LED strips:

• Protection class, also referred to as IP (Ingress Protection) rating. The protection class of an LED strip tells us to what extent the device is resistant to external influences such as dust, moisture or direct exposure to water. Protection classes are determined by a two-digit IP code, where the first digit indicates the level of protection against the ingress of solid objects (including dust) and the second digit indicates protection against water. For example, an LED strip with an IP65 rating is completely dust-proof (6) and protected against water jets from any direction (5), making it suitable for outdoor applications or areas exposed to moisture, such as bathrooms or kitchens. When choosing an LED strip, it is important to match its protection class to the conditions in which it will be used. Strips with lower protection classes, such as IP20, are recommended for indoor use, in dry environments where there is no risk of direct exposure to water. On the other hand, for outdoor spaces, balconies, gardens or interiors where the strips may be exposed to moisture (e.g. near a sink), strips with higher protection classes such as IP65 or IP68 are recommended to provide adequate protection against water. Choosing the right protection class is therefore crucial to ensure that the LED strips will perform long-lasting and trouble-free in a variety of conditions.

LED strip power:

• Dividing LED strips by wattage is a key aspect to consider before making a purchase. The wattage of an LED strip, expressed in watts per metre (W/m), directly affects its brightness and energy efficiency. This allows users to tailor the lighting to their needs, whether for decorative, functional or accent purposes.

In summary, the LED strip market offers a wide range of products, allowing you to tailor lighting to suit almost any space and need. Choosing the right type of tape depends on the expected functionality, visual effect and budget, and the wealth of options available means that everyone can find the perfect solution for themselves.