While buying LED light strips, you’ll come across two options: 12V and 24V LED strips. For a common person who doesn’t understand the nitty-gritty of LEDs, it is difficult to select the right LED strip. Let’s discuss the 12V vs 24V LED strip. We will explain the difference between them and help you select the right one for your needs. Part 1. Understanding LED Strip Light Voltage On LED strip lights, the input voltage is specified. If you want to turn on the strip, you need to connect an appropriate supply with the same voltage. Voltage or potential difference is necessary for the flow of current. Without it, the current will not flow, and the strip will not generate light. Voltage is just like a water pump that generates pressure, and current is the water flowing in pipes. Without the pump, the water will not flow. That’s the reason voltage plays a crucial role. Keep in mind that if you give less voltage than required, the strip light will not turn on. And if you give higher than the required, it might burn the LEDs, produce excessive heat, or damage the whole strip. Thus, voltage is an important specification you need to check while buying LED strip lights. Usually, LED strip lights are available in 12V and 24V. Buyers need to understand the difference between them before making a decision. Part 2. What is the Difference Between 12V and 24V LED Strip 1. Current and Wiring A 12V LED strip requires a 12V power supply, while a 24V LED strip requires a 24V supply. Because of the voltage difference, the magnitude of the current is also different. The current flowing in the circuit is more than a 24V LED strip of the same power rating because of the lower voltage. Technically, it is twice the current in a 24V strip. Suppose we have a 24W LED strip. If it is 24V, it will draw 1A current. But if the voltage is 12V, it will draw 2A from the supply. The current in a 12V LED strip is higher. That’s why it requires thicker wires to handle the current load. In contrast, in a 24V LED strip, the wire is thin, so its wiring is more cost-effective. 2. Distance and Voltage Drop 12V LED strips have a typical length of 5 meters. Due to low voltage, it is recommended to keep the distance short. Otherwise, the voltage will drop as the distance increases. It will affect the brightness of the LED. They are suitable for shorter distances. If you go over 5 meters in a 12V LED strip, the LEDs at the end will not be as bright as the LEDs at the start. On the other hand, a 24V LED strip is the best option for longer distances. Their typical length is 10 meters. They can cover this distance without any voltage drop or brightness issues. 3. Cutting Length A typical 12V LED strip has a circuit segment after three LEDs. Thus, it is possible to make shorter cuts, which is perfect for intricate installations. On the other hand, a 24V LED strip has a circuit segment after six. It has a longer segment, which means you won’t be able to cut the strip as short as a 12V LED strip. It’s better suited for fewer cuttings and longer runs. 4. Users Preference People usually go with 12V LED strips. The main reason is the compatibility with the existing systems. Often, homes and vehicles have a 12V supply, so using a 12V strip becomes a lot easier. It can even be connected to a 12V battery. Moreover, they are easily available and budget-friendly. In contrast, a 24V LED strip requires a 24V supply. Even if you have a 12V battery or supply, it won’t be able to run the strip. Thus, you will have to buy a new supply for this purpose. Part 3. Advantages of 12V LED Strip Lights 12V LED strips are easily available and can be used with existing 12V systems It is a more affordable option as the strips and supplies are less expensive It can be cut into short segments, which makes it an ideal option for intricate installations It can be used for a wide variety of applications, from your kitchen cabinets to car interiors Part 4. Advantages of 24V LED Strip Lights A 24V LED strip light is a great option for longer distances, as it is more resistant to voltage drops and offers incredible performance Due to its low current requirements, the cost of wiring is more affordable Even if you want to install on a large setup, you’ll need fewer power supplies because of the low current It offers better efficiency and less heat compared to a 12V LED strip Part 5. Which LED Strip is Right for My Project - 12V or 24V? Ideal Use Cases for 12V LED Strip Lights 🔵 Automotive Lighting: A 12V LED strip is suitable for automotive lighting. It can work on the existing 12V supply or battery. It works well in a small space. 🔵 Marine Lighting: In boats and yachts, 12V LED strips are suitable. They can be used for lighting and interior décor. 🔵 Under-cabinet Lighting: For intricate installations under the cabinet, a 12V LED strip light is perfect. It can be cut into small pieces and adjusted around the corners. 🔵 Display Lighting: For display cases, bookshelves, Christmas tree, and other décor objects, you can use a 12V strip. It is a better option. 🔵 DIY Projects: In DIY projects, people usually go with 12V LED strip lights. It is a go-to and easy option and offers better results. Ideal Use Cases for 24V LED Strip Lights 🔵 Cove Lighting: Generally, cove lighting requires larger strip lights. For this purpose, you can go with 24V strip lights. They can cover a wider area without any effect on the performance. 🔵 Architectural Accents: If you want to illuminate your hallways, building exterior, backyard, or any other place that requires long strip lights, 24V LED strip lights are the best. 🔵 Commercial Spaces: Retail stores, offices, restaurants, and public spaces can use 24V LED strip lights. They offer better performance. 🔵 High-power Applications: Whenever you need to go with high-power light strips, 24V LED strips are better because of low current. You’ll require a smaller supply and thinner wiring. 24v LED strip light recommendation: Part 6. Common FAQs about 24V and 12V LED Strip Q1. Is 24V better than 12V LED strip? A 24V LED strip is better if you want to cover a long distance of more than 5 meters. Otherwise, 12V is suitable for most applications. It is easily available and can be connected to your existing 12V system. Q2. How do I know if my LED is 12V or 24V? Manufacturers mention the input voltage in the specifications. Check the box, booklet, website, or contact customer support to know the right voltage. Q3. Can I use a 24V LED strip in a 12V system? A 24V LED strip will not turn on in a 12V system. It requires a 24V power supply to work properly. Q4. Is landscape lighting 12V or 24V? It depends on the landscape. If you are installing LED strips smaller than 5 meters, a 12V LED strip is enough. But if you need longer strips and want to cover a massive area, go with a 12V LED strip. Q5. What is the best voltage for LED strip lights? Both 12V and 24V are excellent LED strip lights. You have to choose according to the application. For normal use, go with 12V LED strips. It is cost-effective and works with a 12V battery or an existing system. For covering larger areas and high-power applications, 24V is more suitable. Conclusion 12V and 24V LED strips are meant for different purposes and applications. You need to select the right one based on its limitations, advantages, and features. We have explained the difference in detail to help you select the right LED strip without any hassle.