When choosing LED light strips, it is very important to understand the difference between AC light strips and DC light strips. Whether used for indoor decoration or outdoor lighting, different application scenarios have different requirements for light strips. This article will discuss in detail the differences between AC light strips and DC light strips in terms of voltage, protection level, service life, heat dissipation effect, warranty and cutting methods, and combine it with professional knowledge in the LED light strip industry to help you make a wise choice.
- AC light strips and DC light strips have different voltages
First, the most significant difference is the voltage type. AC light strips usually use alternating current (AC), and the common voltage range is AC110-220V. This light strip fits into power sockets in both domestic and commercial environments, eliminating the need for an additional power converter. For example, if you need to install lighting for your outdoor garden or terrace, you can choose AC110-220V led light strip outdoor, which can be directly connected to the home grid, convenient and fast.
On the other hand, DC light strips use direct current (DC), and common voltages are 12V, 24V, etc. This type of light strip usually requires a power adapter or transformer to convert AC power to DC power. For example, if you need to use a light strip in a car, boat, or in a low voltage environment, 12 Volt LED Light Strip is a good choice. The advantage of DC light strips is that their lower voltage is safer and suitable for environments where children and pets are exposed.
- AC & DC light strips have different protection levels.
The protection level refers to the weather resistance and waterproof performance of the light strip in various environments. For outdoor applications, the degree of protection is particularly important. AC light strips usually have a higher protection level, such as IP67 outdoor led light strips, which means they are completely protected from dust and can be immersed in water for a short period of time. This light strip is ideal for lighting outdoor gardens, around swimming pools or in humid environments.
In comparison, the protection level of DC light strips may be slightly lower, but there are many high-quality products that can meet outdoor needs. For example, some 12-volt LED light strips also reach IP65 protection level, which can effectively prevent dust and water splash. Therefore, when selecting a light strip, the protection level requirements should be determined based on the actual use environment.
- AC light strips and DC light strips have different life
Service life is one of the important indicators for evaluating the performance of LED light strips. There is a certain difference in service life between AC light strips and DC light strips. Generally speaking, DC light strips have a longer service life. This is because DC light strips perform better in terms of current stability, which can reduce the thermal stress of the lamp beads, thereby extending the life of the light strip. For example, the service life of 12 Volt LED Light Strip can usually reach more than 50,000 hours, while the service life of AC110-220V LED Light Strip Outdoor may be slightly shorter, but it is usually more than 30,000 hours.
In addition, DC light strips generate less heat during use, which further extends their service life. Therefore, if you want a longer-lasting lighting effect, choosing 12 Volt LED Strips may be a better choice.
- AC & DC light strips have different heat dissipation effects.
The heat dissipation effect has an important impact on the performance and life of LED light strips. DC light strips generally perform better at dissipating heat. Since DC light strips use a lower voltage, the current is more stable and therefore generates less heat. This makes the 12 Volt LED Strip less prone to overheating during extended use, thereby increasing its reliability and longevity.
On the contrary, AC light strips may generate more heat due to their higher voltage and larger current fluctuations. Although modern AC110-220V led light strip outdoor has adopted an efficient heat dissipation design, it may still face heat dissipation problems in high temperature environments. Therefore, when choosing a light strip, you should consider the temperature conditions of the use environment. Especially in high temperature environments, it may be more appropriate to choose 12-volt LED light strip.
- AC light strips and DC light strips have different warranties.
Warranty is an important indicator of product reliability and after-sales service. Generally speaking, high-quality AC110-220V led light strips outdoor and 12V led light strips will provide a longer warranty period. However, due to the advantages of DC light strips in terms of service life and heat dissipation effect, manufacturers often provide longer warranty periods for 12V LED light strips. For example, some brands may offer a warranty of up to 5 years for 12V LED Strips, while the warranty for AC110-220V LED Strips Outdoor may be 1-3 years.
When purchasing light strips, it is recommended that you carefully read the warranty terms of the product and choose those brands that offer a longer warranty period. This allows timely repair or replacement when the light strip fails, ensuring that your investment is protected.
- The difference in cutting positions between AC & DC light strips
Cutting length is an important factor to consider when choosing LED light strips. AC light strips and DC light strips differ in cutting length. Generally speaking, the cutting length of AC110-220V LED light bar outdoor is longer, usually every 3 lamp beads are a cutting point. This means you can cut the strip into shorter segments if needed, but each segment contains at least 3 lamp beads.
In comparison, the cutting length of 12V LED strip is shorter, usually one cutting point for every 1 or 2 lamp beads. This design makes the 12 Volt LED Light Strip more flexible and can more easily adapt to various complex installation environments. For example, if you need to install a light strip in a narrow space, the short cutting length of 12 Volt LED Strip Light will provide you with greater convenience.
Conclusion
To sum up, there are certain differences between AC light strips and DC light strips in terms of voltage, protection level, service life, heat dissipation effect, warranty and cutting length. Which type of light strip you choose depends on your specific needs and usage environment. If you need to use the light strip outdoors or in a humid environment, it is recommended to choose AC110-220V led light strip outdoor or IP67 outdoor led light strip; if you want a longer service life and better For heat dissipation effect, 12 Volt LED Strip is a better choice.
No matter which type of light strip you choose, make sure you purchase a high-quality product and read the product’s specifications and warranty carefully. This ensures that your LED light strips perform well during use, giving you long-lasting lighting effects. Hope this article is helpful to you, if you have any questions or need further advice, please feel free to contact our professional LED strip supplier – Meiji Lighting.