Deciding on the voltage of an LED string is one of the most important steps in lighting. Voltage, as the driving force of LED lamps, plays a decisive role in the performance and lifespan of the strings. In this article from EDC, we will examine the voltage values ​​available for LED strings, the advantages and disadvantages of each, and important points in choosing the right voltage for ribbon strings.

What is voltage and why is choosing the right string voltage important?

Imagine a river, water flows from one side of the river to the other with a certain pressure. This pressure is the same as voltage. The same is true for electricity. Voltage is the force that moves electrons in an electrical circuit. The higher the voltage, the stronger the electric current.

LED strings are produced with different voltages. Choosing the right voltage for a ribbon string is like choosing the right dress for a party. If the clothes are too tight or too loose, we will not feel comfortable. The same goes for the string, if the voltage is too low or too high, the string will not work properly or may be damaged.

Types of LED String Voltage

The most common voltages in LED strings are:

5V: This voltage is used in small, flexible LED strings that can be installed in confined spaces. Due to the low voltage, it is safer and more suitable for use in wet environments or places where children are present.
12V: This voltage is the most commonly used type of voltage in LED strings. 12V strings are available in both flexible and hose models and are used for home and commercial use.
24V: This voltage is usually used in large and industrial projects. 24V strings have more power and are suitable for lighting large spaces or creating professional lighting.
High Voltage Strings (120V and 220V): High voltage strings are usually used for outdoor lighting projects and larger areas. These strings can be connected directly to the city power and do not require a transformer.
Needle String Voltage

Needle strings are also usually available in lower voltages (5 or 12V) and are ideal for detail lighting and decorative lighting due to their small size and low consumption. These strings are easily installed in small spaces and difficult spots.

Hose String Voltage

Hose strings are often available in high voltages (120 or 220V) and are very suitable for lighting outdoor environments and large areas due to their special design. These types of strings are connected directly to the city power and do not require a transformer.

Seven-color RGB LED Voltage

Seven-color LEDs (RGB LEDs) are available in 5V, 12V and 24V voltages:

The 5V type is suitable for small projects and low-power devices.
12V LEDs, which are the most common type, are used for indoor and outdoor lighting.
The 24V type is suitable for larger and industrial projects and, due to the higher voltage, is more efficient and works well in longer lengths without voltage drop.
Advantages, disadvantages and applications of types of ribbon cables

To choose the appropriate voltage when buying ribbon cables, it is better to be familiar with the advantages, disadvantages and applications of the types of cables. For this purpose, the following is a complete review of the types of voltages in ribbon cables:

5V cables:
Advantages: High safety, flexibility, suitable for small spaces.
Disadvantages: Lower power, limitation on cable length.
Application: Under-cabinet lighting, decorative lighting.
12-volt strings:
Advantages: Balance between power and safety, model variety, wide application.
Disadvantages: Need for adapter, limitation on long strings.
Application: False ceiling lighting, lighting behind TV, lighting shelves.
24-volt strings:
Advantages: High power, suitable for large projects, ability to install over long distances.
Disadvantages: Need for specialized equipment, higher cost.
Application: Commercial lighting, industrial lighting, lighting facades or exterior parts of buildings.
12-volt or 24-volt string?

Both voltages have their advantages and disadvantages, which we will examine below so that you can make a better choice:

Application and brightness
12-volt filaments: These filaments are more suitable for small, indoor projects such as lighting kitchens and cabinets or lighting false ceilings and small spaces. Since they have a lower voltage, their brightness is usually lower, but they are sufficient for small environments and local lighting.
24-volt filaments: These types of filaments are more suitable for larger projects and spaces that require more brightness. Due to the higher voltage, these filaments can produce more brightness and be used over longer distances without a significant drop in light intensity.
Filter length and voltage drop
12-volt filaments: These filaments perform better in shorter lengths. If the string is long, you may encounter voltage drop problems, which will reduce the light intensity at the end of the string.
24V strings: For projects that require longer lengths, 24V strings are better. Due to the higher voltage, there is less voltage drop along the string, which maintains the light intensity along the entire length of the string.
Installation and accessories
12V strings: These strings require a transformer or suitable power supply that reduces the voltage from 220V to 12V. Installing this equipment is a little more complicated and expensive.
24V strings: Due to the higher voltage, they require a transformer with a higher power, but due to their higher efficiency, they can be more economical in the long run.
Does voltage affect the brightness?

The brightness of the string depends on several factors, including the number of LED bulbs, the power of each bulb, and the supply voltage. Increasing the voltage alone does not necessarily mean increasing the brightness. Rather, increasing the overall power of the lighting system is the main factor in increasing the brightness.

Does the length of the LED string affect the voltage?

Yes, the length of the LED string is one of the important factors in choosing the right voltage. The longer the string, the higher the resistance of the wires, which can lead to a decrease in voltage and, consequently, a decrease in light intensity. To avoid this problem, you should choose a higher voltage or use strings designed for long lengths.

How to determine the voltage of an LED string?

It can be difficult to determine the exact voltage of an LED strip at home, but there are ways to make a rough guess:

Package: If you have the LED in its original packaging, it usually has the technical specifications, including the operating voltage, listed on it.
Datasheet: If you know the exact model of the LED, you can search for its datasheet online. A datasheet is a technical document that explains all the specifications of an electronic component in detail.
Use a multimeter
Direct current (DC) voltage: If you have a multimeter, you can measure the voltage across the LED by setting it to direct current (DC) voltage. However, note that this method is not suitable for measuring the exact operating voltage of the LED and may not give accurate results.
Check the appearance of the product
LED size and color: Higher voltage LEDs are usually larger and produce brighter light. However, this method is very approximate and cannot be completely trusted.
Factors affecting the selection of string voltage
Power requirement: To illuminate larger spaces, strings with higher voltage and power are required.
String length: As the string length increases, voltage drops occur. Therefore, for long strings, it is better to use higher voltages.
Installation environment: In humid environments or places where children are present, the use of 5-volt strings is recommended for higher safety reasons.
Adapter type: The right adapter plays an important role in the performance of the string. Make sure that your adapter is compatible with the string voltage.
EDC is the leading LED string manufacturer

EDC is one of the well-known and popular brands in the field of producing various types of LED strings. This company, using state-of-the-art technologies and using high-quality raw materials, produces products with long life and high brightness. EDC LED strings are produced in a variety of designs and colors and can be used for various decorations and applications.

Among the features of EDC products are low energy consumption, easy installation and high durability. If you are looking for quality and diverse LED strings, EDC products can be a good choice for you.