The Complete Guide to Buying LED Strip Lights

In today's market, LED strip lights have become increasingly popular due to their versatility and efficiency. According to various sources, LED lights boast an impressive lifespan of over 25,000 hours and are up to seven times more efficient than traditional light sources, making them an excellent choice for both residential and commercial settings.

BLUE DIAMOND offers a range of products and information you might find useful, so be sure to explore their options.

These flexible light strips, commonly featuring 60 or more LEDs per roll, allow you to create mood lighting in any environment, indoors or outdoors. They are easy to install and can light up any space in your desired color. Continue reading for insights on the various types of LED strips and tips for selecting the perfect one.

1. Choose Between RGB or White LEDs

LED strips come in different types, with RGB options being popular for their ability to emit a wide range of colors. This includes red, green, blue, and more. When purchasing, you’ll often receive a remote control to customize your lighting effortlessly.

With spring approaching, you might want to enhance your outdoor areas. Installing LED strip lights on your patio can transform the atmosphere during the evening. The included remote gives you the option to select different modes like "Fade" or "Strobe" based on your mood.

If you prefer simplicity, you can opt for plain white LED strips, which are available in warm, neutral, and cool white options. The color temperature varies: warm white around 2700K, neutral white approximately 4000K, and cool white about 6000K.

2. The Density of LEDs per Band

The quantity of LEDs on each strip influences both the brightness and the pricing. For brighter illumination, select strips with 18 LEDs per foot, while those with 9 LEDs per foot provide lower brightness levels.

Remember that many strips are cuttable, allowing you to customize the length for specific installations, like under furniture or along outdoor railings. For increased efficiency in outdoor settings, consider strips with higher LED density.

3. Consider the Length of the Reel

LED strip lengths vary, with options typically ranging from short sections to full reels measuring 16.4 feet. Although you can cut strips to fit your space, it's advisable to select a strip length close to the area you’ve measured.

If you’re looking to install LED lights under your couch, for instance, measure the couch length first. A nine-foot strip may be appropriate for most standard patio furniture.

4. Decide If You Need Waterproof LED Bands

Indoor applications may not require waterproof ratings, but if you're enhancing your outdoor space, select a strip with at least an IP65 rating to guard against rain and other environmental conditions.

5. Check The Voltage Of Your LED Strip

LED strips usually utilize standard voltages of either 12V or 24V. When choosing, consider the installation environment. For example, if setting up in a camper van, opt for a 12V strip, as most RVs are equipped with 12V outlets.

6. Check The Brightness of Your LED Strip

To achieve brighter lighting, select strips with a higher LED count per foot. Additionally, LED brightness varies, with white LEDs measured in lumens and RGB LEDs in millicandela. Higher lumen ratings indicate greater brightness.

An RGB strip with over 2000 millicandela will deliver highly visible lighting.

7. Consider Getting Additional Accessories

When purchasing your LED strip lights, consider additional accessories like adhesive tape or amplifiers. Mounting clips are particularly useful for securing outdoor strips against adverse weather conditions.

Now You Know More About LED Strip Lights!

As you can see, purchasing LED strip lights can be straightforward with the right information. Remember that multiple strips can enhance your space, allowing you to create an inviting atmosphere without a significant expense.

If you're unsure how to embellish your yard or patio with LED lights, check out our article on 7 inspiring approaches!

Top 4 Considerations Before Buying Flexible LED Strip Lights

The popularity of flexible LED strip lights has surged in modern design. Their efficiency, variety in color options, brightness, and user-friendly installation make them a preferred choice among architects and homeowners alike.

With numerous options available, it can be challenging to decide which LED strip light is best suited for your needs. We’ve compiled this guide to assist both experts and novices through their selection process.

1. Compare Lumen, CCT, and CRI (Color Rendering Index)

1.1 Lumen (Brightness)

Lumen measures perceived brightness. Understanding the lumen output of various strips is vital for achieving the desired lighting effect.

A general guide for illumination requirements includes:

• Accent and mood lighting: 100 to 350 lumens per foot
• Under-cabinet lighting: 175 to 525 lumens per foot
• Task lighting: 280 to 437 lumens per foot
• Indirect lighting: 375 to 562 lumens per foot

1.2 CCT - Color Temperature

Correlated Color Temperature (CCT), measured in Kelvin, significantly influences the perception of white light. Understanding the temperature ratings helps in selecting the appropriate light for your space.

1.3 CRI - Color Rendering Index

The Color Rendering Index (CRI) assesses how accurately colors appear under LED light relative to natural sunlight. A higher CRI ensures better color representation.

2. Compare LED Strip Size and Number of LEDs

LED strips typically come in bulk reels, often measuring 5 meters. Check the specifications of the strips to confirm size before purchasing.

3. Wattage Consumed Per Strip of LEDs

Poor wattage classification can lead to confusion. Verify the power consumption data to avoid running into compatibility issues.

4. Verifiable Quality

Ensure that your chosen LED strips come from reputable manufacturers. Look for thermal management features, safety certifications, and quality materials to guarantee performance.

Which LED Strip Should I Choose?

White Output Options

Consider the series that fit your needs, from subtle accents to bright industrial applications.

Dynamic Tunable White Output

Choose between adjustable options to create desired lighting atmospheres.

RGB Color Changing Output

Select from various series according to your brightness and application demands.

Other Considerations When Choosing Your LED Strip Lights

The market is filled with options, making it challenging to discern quality. However, reputable brands like Flexfire LEDs are trusted by prominent organizations and can enhance your projects.

Save This Comparison Chart and Compare With Other LED Strip Lights

Download the Strip Light Comparison Chart to assist in your evaluation.

Need Help With Your Project?

Contact our LED project design specialists for assistance in selecting your lighting solution. We are ready to help you with projects of any size!

For further information, visit CCT Flexible Led Strip.