12V or 24V LED Strip, Which one Should I Choose?

LED strips are classified into high-voltage and low-voltage LED strips based on voltage. Low-voltage strips are safer and more appropriate for situations where the human body is easily exposed, hence they are popular with the majority of users. Low-voltage LED strips are typically 5V, 12V, or 24V. The two most typical voltages for strip lighting applications are 12V and 24V. So, what's the difference between a 12V and 24V LED strip? This is a full comparison analysis.

Comparison of 12V and 24V LED strip

1. Power and current
•12V LED strip:
•Power: Usually low power, suitable for smaller areas or low brightness requirements.
•Current: Due to the lower voltage, in order to achieve the same power output, the current will be larger. This may cause heating problems in the wires, especially when wiring over long distances.
•24V LED strip:
•Power: Can support higher power output, suitable for occasions that require higher brightness
•Current: At the same power, the current is relatively small, reducing the risk of wire heating and maintaining a stable voltage over a longer distance.
2. Wiring length
•12V LED strip:
•Limitations: Due to the influence of voltage drop, the wiring length of 12V strips is usually shorter, and it is generally recommended not to exceed 5 meters, otherwise uneven brightness may occur.
•24V LED strip:
•Advantages: The voltage is higher and the voltage drop is less affected, so it can support longer wiring lengths, generally up to 10 meters or even longer, depending on the power density of the strip.
3. Cable size
•12V LED strip:
•Requirements: Due to the high current, thicker cables are required to reduce resistance and heat generation, increasing costs.
•24V LED strip:
•Advantages: The current is smaller, and thinner cables can be used, reducing costs and simplifying installation.
4. Power supply
•12V LED strip:
•Advantages: 12V power supply is more common, easy to obtain, and suitable for most home and car electrical systems.
• Disadvantages: For large-area lighting, multiple power supplies may be required to supply power in sections, increasing complexity and cost.
• 24V LED strip:
• Advantages: A single 24V power supply can power longer strips, reducing the number of power supplies and connectors, and simplifying wiring.
• Disadvantages: 24V power supplies are less common than 12V power supplies and may need to be purchased specifically.
5. Safety
• 12V LED strip:
• Advantages: 12V belongs to the low voltage range and is relatively safer, especially suitable for indoor use and areas where children are exposed.
• 24V LED strip:
• Considerations: Although 24V still belongs to the low voltage range, it is slightly more risky than 12V, especially in humid environments, more attention should be paid to waterproofing.

6. Compatibility
• 12V LED strip:
• Advantages: Compatible with more off-the-shelf controllers and accessories, especially those for automotive and marine equipment.
• 24V LED strip:
• Considerations: Specific controllers and accessories that support 24V input may be required, and the selection range is relatively small.
7. Application Scenarios
•12V LED strip:
•Applicable Scenarios: Small decorative lighting, automotive interior lighting, home theater, under-cabinet lighting, etc.
•24V LED strip:
•Applicable Scenarios: Large commercial signs, building exterior lighting, stage lighting, industrial applications, etc.

Which is better: 12v LED strip or 24v LED strip?

Choose 12V LED strip: If you need a simple, low-cost solution with a short wiring length, 12V strips are a good choice. It is especially suitable for small projects and occasions with high safety requirements.
Choose 24V LED strip: If you need higher brightness, longer wiring lengths, and better current management, 24V strips are more suitable. It is suitable for large projects and professional applications.

Buy LED strip from Aglare Lighting Manufacturers

Now that you understand the difference between 12V and 24V LED strip, choosing the right LED Strip Lighting Manufacturer is crucial to achieving the effects you want. Aglare Lighting is a trusted LED Strip Manufacturer.
We produce many different models of 12V 24V LED strip, cob LED strip, smd2835 LED strip, 5050 RGB LED strip, 3528 LED strip, 3014 LED strip, 3020 LED strip, 5730 LED strip, addressable LED strip, programmable LED strip, DC12V 24V LED strip warm white 3000K 4000K 6000K LED strip linear dimmable. LED strip come in a variety of colors, densities, lengths, and weatherproof ratings to suit any indoor or outdoor need.

Whether you are decorating for a special occasion or want to add some pizzazz to your bedroom, living room, dining room, or even special occasions like birthday parties, Halloween, Christmas, and weddings, our LED strip light sets will add a touch of color to any indoor or outdoor setting.