Which voltage should you use for LED strips?
When installing a LED strip at home or in a professional setting, one of the first questions to ask yourself is: which voltage should I choose? This is crucial, as it affects the compatibility of your setup, the maximum length you can light without power loss, and the type of power supply you'll need. However, it’s not always easy to understand the differences between 12V, 24V, and 230V LED strips. In this blog, we’ll explain to you what each voltage means and, more importantly, when each one is the best choice.
What is the difference between 12V, 24V, and 230V for an LED strip?
12V LED Strip | Ideal for small installations
A 12V LED strip is one of the most commonly used options for small lighting projects in homes. It operates on a low voltage, which makes it a safer solution, especially in sensitive areas such as bathrooms or children's bedrooms. One of its main advantages is its flexibility. It can usually be cut every few centimetres, often between three and five, which ensures allows for highly precise installations even on small surfaces or in tight spaces. This makes it a great choice for lighting under kitchen cabinets, inside display cases, along staircases, around mirrors or even in cars.
Like all low-voltage LED strips, it requires a driver to function properly since it cannot be plugged directly into a standard 230V wall outlet. It is also important to keep in mind that 12V LED strips may gradually lose brightness as the length increases. Beyond five meters, this drop in intensity can become noticeable.
Examples of use for 12V strip:
- Under-cabinet lighting for kitchens
- Bright atmosphere in a headboard
- Interior lighting for display cases or shelves
24V LED Strip | Better suited for longer installations
A 24V LED strip is often the preferred choice for professional projects or larger installations. Thanks to its higher voltage, the current flows more steadily, which helps reduce brightness loss over longer distances up to 10m. Compared to the 12V version, it allows you to light larger surfaces with more consistent brightness throughout. It is especially effective for applications that require powerful LED strips or long, continuous lines of light, such as backlit ceilings, decorative walls, or retail lighting. It is also a perfect fit in homes, for example under your kitchen cabinets.
Although it is slightly less flexible than the 12V strip, cutting points are typically spaced every 10 centimetres, it is still relatively easy to install. Like the 12V version, it requires a specific power supply, but it tends to be more stable overall, generates less heat, and lasts longer under heavy use. For those looking for a professional and durable result, the 24V option is often an excellent choice.
Examples of use for 24V strip:
- Indirect lighting in a living room or showroom
- LED ceiling moldings 10 meters long
- Offices reception areas or commercial spaces
230V LED Strip | For outdoor & long-length use
Unlike 12V and 24V strips, the 230V LED strip can be plugged directly into a power outlet without the need for a driver. This makes it especially convenient for installations where it would be difficult to hide or integrate a power supply. It is commonly used outdoors, for example on balconies, terraces, building facades, or for temporary events. It allows for easy installation of strips longer than 20, and up to 50 meters, while maintaining consistent brightness along the entire length.
However, it is less flexible than other types of LED strips. It is more rigid, less bendable, and offers fewer cutting options. This makes it less suitable for indoor projects that require precision or a discreet finish. Additionally, even though it is often waterproof, it is important to check its protection rating (IP65 or higher) to ensure it can withstand moisture and dust. This way, you can be sure that it is an LED strip for outdoor use.
Examples of use for 230V strip:
- Roof contours during the festive season
- Balcony or terrace bathed in light
- Outdoor signage
Practical tips for installing LED strips according to their voltage
Before installing an LED strip, it's essential to understand a few simple but important guidelines. Using a 12V power supply with a 24V strip or vice versa will damage the components and void warranties. Don’t worry, we’ll explain everything below per voltage!
Our installation tips for LED strips
Installation for
12V LED strips
For 12V LED strips, installation is usually very straightforward, but special care should be taken when connecting the power supply to ensure safe and optimal operation. Make sure to use a driver that matches the total power required by the strip. These strips are well-suited for shorter lengths, but if you plan to connect multiple sections, it's best to power each segment in parallel rather than chaining them in series. This helps avoid brightness loss toward the end of the strip and ensures a more uniform and professional-looking light output.
Installation for
24V LED strips
24V LED strips follow the same principle and also require a driver, but they offer the advantage of supporting both short and longer lengths with more consistent brightness (up to 10m). Again, make sure the power supply provides enough wattage for your specific setup, and always double-check the polarity when connecting the wires to avoid issues. If you want to do more than 10 metres, use 2x 10m that both have their own power supply on the outside of the strip. This way, it still looks like a single continuous piece of 20m once installed.
Installation for
230V LED strips
The main advanage of 230V LED strips, their main advantage is that they connect directly to a standard wall socket without an external power supply. This makes installation much simpler, especially outdoors or across long distances. However, these strips are more rigid (due to the thicker wires) and therefore less flexible when it comes to fitting them into tight spaces. The 230V LED strips are more dangerous than 12 or 24 V strips. Therefore, always ensure that the strip is intact and that no copper elements are accessible.
Would you like to know step by step how to install a lighting solution with LED strips? View our installation guide.
What is the recommended voltage for a LED strip?
If, after reading all of our explanations, you still have doubts, keep in mind that the 24V LED strip is the ideal choice for combining performance, simplicity, and safety. With its ability to power long sections without any drop in brightness, it ensures a smooth and professional lighting effect, even across several meters. Its low voltage makes it safe to handle, even in sensitive areas like bathrooms or kitchens. Consuming less current than 12V strips, it generates minimal heat, protects your setup, and extends its lifespan. In short, a reliable solution for lighting projects that are both stylish and built to last.
To help you make your choice, we offers complete 24V LED strip kits.
Do you need LED strips for your lighting project, but could you use some product advice? Contact your personal account manager or request tailored lighting advice.
