In the LED strip industry, you may encounter two main types: AC (alternating current) strips and DC (direct current) strips. Each type of strip has its own unique characteristics and applicable scenarios. This article will detail the differences between AC and DC strips, including length, dark area treatment, packaging, strobe differences, installation issues and application scenarios, and safety. Whether you are a home user or a professional designer, understanding these differences can help you make a more informed choice.
- Length difference
AC strips:
- Standard length: AC strips are usually 5 meters as a standard unit and can be cut into shorter sections. Since AC strips can be directly connected to the home power grid (AC110-220V), they are more common in long-distance applications.
- Applicable scenarios: AC strips are suitable for outdoor use, such as exterior wall lighting, garden paths, billboards, etc. They have high weather resistance and waterproof performance (such as IP67 plus led strips exterior), and can withstand harsh environmental conditions.
DC light strip:
- Standard length: The standard length of DC light strip is usually 5 meters, but it can also be cut as needed. However, since DC light strips need to convert AC power to DC power (12V or 24V) through a power adapter, the power line loss needs to be considered in long-distance applications.
- Applicable scenarios: DC light strips are suitable for scenarios such as interior decoration, cabinet lighting, stair lighting, etc. They have lower voltage, are safer, and are easy to install and maintain.
- Dark area treatment
AC light strip:
- Dark area problem: AC light strips may have dark areas in long-distance applications, especially when the voltage drop is large. To reduce the dark area, you can add power access points at different locations of the light strip, or use a higher power power adapter.
- Solution: Using multi-point power supply technology, that is, connecting the power supply at different locations of the light strip, can effectively reduce the voltage drop and ensure uniform brightness of the entire light strip.
DC light strip:
- Dark area problem: DC light strips may also have dark areas in long-distance applications, but this problem is easier to solve than AC light strips. Since the voltage of DC light strips is low, the loss of the power cord is relatively small.
- Solution: Using a high-power power adapter and adding power access points at different locations of the light strip can effectively avoid the dark area problem. In addition, choosing a high-quality power cord can also reduce voltage drop.
- Different packaging
AC light strips:
- Packaging features: The packaging of AC light strips is usually simpler because they can be directly connected to the home power grid and do not require an additional power adapter. The packaging will indicate the voltage, power, length and other parameters of the light strip.
- Applicable scenarios: The packaging design of AC light strips is suitable for outdoor use, and waterproof materials are usually used to protect the light strip from environmental influences.
DC light strips:
- Packaging features: The packaging of DC light strips usually includes a power adapter, connector and other necessary accessories. The packaging will detail the voltage, power, length of the light strip, and the model and specifications of the power adapter.
- Applicable scenarios: The packaging design of DC light strips is suitable for indoor use, and dust-proof and moisture-proof materials are usually used to protect the light strip and accessories from damage.
- Flicker Difference
AC Light Strip:
- Flicker Problem: AC light strips may flicker due to being directly connected to the AC power supply. Especially in low brightness mode, the flicker problem is more obvious. Flicker not only affects visual comfort, but may also cause damage to the eyes.
- Solution: Using high-quality drivers and dimmers can effectively reduce flicker. In addition, choosing a light strip with a flicker-free function is also a good way to solve this problem.
DC Light Strip:
- Flicker Problem: DC light strips usually do not flicker due to the use of DC power. Even in low brightness mode, DC light strips can maintain a stable brightness and will not cause visual discomfort.
- Solution: Although DC light strips themselves are not prone to flicker, it is still recommended to choose high-quality products when choosing power adapters and dimmers to ensure the best use effect.
- Installation Problems and Application Scenarios
AC Light Strip:
- Installation Problem: AC light strips are relatively simple to install and can be directly connected to the home power grid without the need for an additional power adapter. However, due to the high voltage of AC light strips, you need to pay attention to safety during installation to avoid the risk of electric shock.
- Application scenarios: AC light strips are suitable for outdoor use, such as exterior wall lighting, garden paths, billboards, etc. They have high weather resistance and waterproof performance and can withstand harsh environmental conditions. Common products are AC110-220V led lighting strips outdoor and IP67 plug led strips exterior.
DC light strips:
- Installation issues: The installation of DC light strips is relatively complicated, and a power adapter is required to convert AC to DC. In addition, the wiring of the power cord and the installation of the connector need to be considered. However, due to the low voltage of DC light strips, the safety risk during installation is relatively small.
- Application scenarios: DC light strips are suitable for indoor decoration, cabinet lighting, stair lighting and other scenarios. They have a lower voltage, are safer, and are easy to install and maintain. Common products are 12V/24V strip led lights.
- Different safety
AC light strips:
- Safety: AC light strips have a higher voltage and are directly connected to the home power grid, so you need to pay attention to safety during installation and use. It is recommended that professionals install them to avoid the risk of electric shock. In addition, AC light strips have better waterproof performance and are suitable for outdoor use, but they still need to be checked regularly to ensure that they are safe and reliable.
DC light strips:
- Safety: DC light strips have a lower voltage (12V or 24V) and are safer. Even if an accident occurs during installation and use, it will not cause serious harm to the human body. Therefore, DC light strips are particularly suitable for home users and interior decoration. However, you still need to pay attention to safety when using the power adapter to avoid overload and short circuit.
Summary
Both AC and DC light strips have their unique advantages and applicable scenarios. Choosing the right type of light strip can ensure that your lighting project is both beautiful and practical. If you need outdoor lighting, it is recommended to choose AC110-220V led lighting strips outdoor or IP67 plug led strips exterior; if you need indoor decoration, it is recommended to choose 12V/24V strip led lights. Hopefully this article can help you better understand and choose LED light strips to make your living space brighter and warmer.