LED Strips
Flexible LED Light Strips for Professional Lighting Projects
LED strips (also called LED tape or LED ribbon) are among the most flexible lighting solutions in modern lighting technology. The self-adhesive light strips with integrated LED chips offer electricians, carpenters, and lighting planners virtually unlimited design possibilities – from indirect lighting to accent lighting to full room illumination. At WATT24, you'll find high-quality LED strips from leading manufacturers such as Ledvance, EVN, and Weloom for every application.
€3.25 net €2.73
Shipping in 7 day(s)
€1.49 net €1.25
Immediately available
€143.99 net €121.00
Shipping in 7 day(s)
€0.81 net €0.68 €2.44
Immediately available
€2.21 net €1.86
Immediately available
€1.49 net €1.25
Immediately available
€203.06 net €170.64
Shipping in 3 day(s)
€1.49 net €1.25
Immediately available
€3.24 net €2.72
Immediately available
€19.96 net €16.77
Immediately available
€6.75 net €5.67
Shipping in 7 day(s)
€78.35 net €65.84
Shipping in 7 day(s)
€9.97 net €8.38
Shipping in 7 day(s)
€16.90 net €14.20
Shipping in 7 day(s)
€2.84 net €2.39
Immediately available
€3.65 net €3.07
Immediately available
€1.49 net €1.25
Shipping in 7 day(s)
€4.28 net €3.60 €6.83
Immediately available
€8.59 net €7.22
Immediately available
€2.51 net €2.11
Shipping in 7 day(s)
€1.49 net €1.25
Shipping in 7 day(s)
€2.25 net €1.89
Immediately available
€3.25 net €2.73
Shipping in 7 day(s)
€1.49 net €1.25
Shipping in 7 day(s)
- Comprehensive advice & support
- over 10,000 articles in the shop
- Shipping in 24 hours
- thousands of satisfied customers
KATHRIN BRANDT
Employee Purchasing from TroisdorfGreat advice and friendly service. I was helped immediately and competently with any questions. Gladly again.
OMAR NASER
Office Manager from Frankfurt a.M.Goods are well packaged and arrive safely, which is important to me. My mail was answered immediately.
RAINER SEIDEL
Master carpenter from WiesbadenHad to replace a lamp, but the same was no longer available. Great advice, found a suitable replacement and delivered it quickly.
LED Strips by Application Area
Selecting the right LED strips depends significantly on the area of application. Different requirements for brightness, IP rating, and color quality determine which LED strip is optimally suited.
Indirect Lighting with LED Strips
For indirect lighting in coves, behind furniture, or as ceiling lighting, LED strips with high LED density (at least 120 LEDs/m) are required. Only this creates uniform, spot-free light without visible light cones. Installation ideally takes place in aluminum profiles with diffusers that softly scatter the light.
Recommended values: At least 1000-1500 lm/m luminous flux, CRI >90 for natural color rendering, 24V systems for longer runs without brightness loss.
LED Strips for Accent Lighting
For accentuating picture frames, display cases, or furniture, compact LED strips with lower power (5-10 W/m) are suitable. Narrow LED strips (5-8mm width) can be concealed inconspicuously and require less space.
Tip: For picture frame lighting, warm white LED strips (2700-3000K) with high color rendering are ideal for authentically illuminating artworks.
LED Strips for Task Lighting
As task lighting in kitchens, workshops, or offices, LED strips require high luminous output (1500-2000 lm/m) and neutral white light (4000K). Installation takes place in robust aluminum profiles with matte covers to avoid glare.
| Application Area | Luminous Flux (lm/m) | Color Temperature | CRI Value | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indirect Lighting | 1000-1500 | 2700-4000K | >90 | High LED density, diffuser required |
| Accent Lighting | 500-800 | 2700-3000K | >80 | Narrow design, low power |
| Task Lighting | 1500-2000 | 4000K | >80 | Glare-free, even illumination |
| Outdoor Lighting | 800-1200 | 3000-4000K | >80 | At least IP65, weatherproof |
| Decorative Lighting | 300-600 | RGB/RGBW | >70 | Color changing, dimmable |
| Main Lighting | 2000-2500 | 3000-4000K | >90 | High-performance LED strips, active cooling |
IP Ratings for LED Strips
The IP rating determines in which environments LED strips can be used. For professional installations, the correct IP rating is crucial for longevity and safety.
| IP Rating | Protection Against Foreign Objects | Protection Against Water | Typical Application Areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| IP20 | Protected against solid foreign objects ≥12.5 mm | No protection | Dry interior spaces (living rooms, offices, bedrooms) |
| IP44 | Protected against solid foreign objects ≥1 mm | Protected against splashing water | Bathrooms, kitchens, covered outdoor areas |
| IP65 | Dust-tight | Protected against water jets | Outdoor areas, facade lighting, terraces |
| IP67 | Dust-tight | Protected against temporary submersion | Floor installation, buried LED strips, pool lighting |
| IP68 | Dust-tight | Protected against permanent submersion | Underwater lighting, fountains, aquariums |
Quality Features of High-Quality LED Strips
The quality of LED strips can be evaluated based on specific technical features. High-quality LED strips differ from cheap variants in several crucial points.
LED Density and Population
The number of LEDs per meter significantly determines light quality. Cheap LED strips often have only 30-60 LEDs/m, which leads to visible light points and uneven illumination. High-quality LED strips offer 120-240 LEDs/m for homogeneous, spot-free light.
Standard population: 30 LEDs/m (decorative), 60 LEDs/m (basic), 120 LEDs/m (standard), 240 LEDs/m (premium).
Copper Traces
The thickness of the copper trace influences longevity and performance. Thin traces (< 2oz copper) heat up strongly, conduct heat poorly, and increase resistance. High-quality LED strips use 3-4oz copper for stable performance over the entire length.
Binning Quality
Binning refers to the sorting of LEDs by color temperature and brightness. Quality manufacturers like Ledvance or EVN use strictly binned LEDs (MacAdam 3 or better), so all LEDs on a strip have identical color and brightness. With cheap LED strips, color temperature varies visibly.
Coating and Materials
High-quality silicone coating protects the electronics, remains permanently flexible, and does not yellow. Cheap PVC coatings become brittle, crack, and discolor. The adhesive layer should also be high-quality – inferior adhesives detach after a short time.
| Quality Feature | Cheap LED Strips | High-Quality LED Strips |
|---|---|---|
| LED Density | 30-60 LEDs/m | 120-240 LEDs/m |
| Copper Trace | 1-2oz (thin) | 3-4oz (thick) |
| Binning Quality | MacAdam 5-7 (visible differences) | MacAdam 3 or better (no differences) |
| CRI Value | 70-75 | >90 |
| Lifespan | 15,000-25,000h | 40,000-50,000h |
| Efficiency | 80-100 lm/W | 120-160 lm/W |
| Coating | PVC (yellows, brittle) | Silicone (permanently flexible) |
| Warranty | 1 year | 3-5 years |
LED Strips by Color Temperature
LED strips are available in various color temperatures and color variants. The choice depends on the application and desired lighting mood.
Single-Color LED Strips (White Tones)
Single-color LED strips offer consistent color temperature and are available in various white tones:
- Warm White (2700-3000K): Cozy light for living areas, restaurants, hotels
- Neutral White (3500-4000K): Objective task light for offices, kitchens, workshops
- Cool White (5000-6500K): Activating light for industry, warehouses, basements
Dual-White LED Strips (Tunable White)
Dual-white LED strips combine warm white and cool white LEDs on one strip. The color temperature can be continuously adjusted between 2700K and 6500K. Ideal for areas where lighting mood and activity level vary (e.g., living rooms, offices with daylight control).
RGB LED Strips
RGB LED strips produce any color tone by mixing the primary colors red, green, and blue. Disadvantage: The white produced by color mixing appears unnatural and bluish. RGB strips are primarily suitable for decorative lighting and effects.
RGBW and RGBWW LED Strips
RGBW LED strips supplement RGB with a separate white LED, creating true white without color mixing. RGBWW variants additionally offer adjustable color temperature through warm white and cool white LEDs. These LED strips combine color changing with high-quality white light quality.
System Voltage: 12V or 24V?
LED strips operate with low voltage, with 12V and 24V systems being the common standards. The choice of system voltage has practical implications for installation.
| Feature | 12V LED Strips | 24V LED Strips |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum length without feed-in | 3-5 meters | 8-10 meters |
| Voltage drop | Higher (thicker cables required) | Lower (thinner cables possible) |
| Cutting mark spacing | Every 5-10 cm (more frequently divisible) | Every 10-20 cm |
| Availability of power supplies | Very large | Large |
| Typical application | Short runs, furniture lighting | Long runs, coves, commercial |
| Power loss in lines | Higher | Lower (more efficient) |
Recommendation: For runs over 5 meters and professional installations, 24V LED strips are preferable. They enable longer runs without brightness loss and require thinner supply lines.
Installation and Mounting of LED Strips
Proper installation of LED strips requires some basic knowledge and the right accessories. Electrical work must be performed by qualified electricians.
Aluminum Profiles and Housings
Aluminum profiles serve multiple functions: They act as heat sinks, mechanically protect the LED strips, enable clean installation, and improve light quality through diffuser covers. For professional installations, aluminum profiles are essential.
Profile types: Surface-mounted profiles, recessed profiles, corner profiles (45°), pendant profiles. With matching end caps and mounting clips, a closed system is created.
Cutting and Connecting
LED strips can be cut at marked cutting points (cutting marks with scissor symbol). The division depends on the system voltage: 12V strips every 5-10cm, 24V strips every 10-20cm. To connect multiple pieces, solder-free connectors or solder connections are used.
Important: Only cut at cutting marks, never between LEDs. When connecting, pay attention to correct polarity (plus/minus or observe color coding).
Power Supplies and LED Drivers
LED strips require constant voltage power supplies (12V or 24V DC). The required power is calculated: Length (m) × Power per meter (W/m) × 1.2 (safety factor).
Example: 8 meters LED strip with 12W/m → 8m × 12W/m × 1.2 = 115.2W → LED power supply with at least 120W required.
Accessories for LED Strips
For professional installations, suitable accessories for LED strips are essential. At WATT24, you'll find a comprehensive range of mounting materials and control components.
- Aluminum profiles: In various shapes (flat, angular, round) with matte or clear diffuser covers
- Connectors and clips: Solder-free quick connectors for easy connecting and extending
- LED power supplies: Constant voltage drivers in various power classes (12V/24V)
- Dimmers and controllers: PWM dimmers, RGB controllers, DALI controls, wireless remote controls
- Mounting materials: Mounting clips for profiles, end caps, covers
- Cables and wires: Flexible installation cable for low-voltage applications
Control and Dimming
Modern LED strips can be controlled in various ways – from simple dimmers to complex smart home integrations.
Simple Dimmers
PWM dimmers (pulse width modulation) regulate brightness through rapid switching on and off. High-quality PWM dimmers operate with >1000Hz frequency for flicker-free light. Operation via rotary control, touch dimmer, or remote control.
RGB Controllers
For RGB, RGBW, and RGBWW LED strips, special controllers are required that control color and brightness. Modern RGB controllers offer pre-programmed scenes, color gradients, and music control.
DALI Control
For professional building installations, DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface) is suitable. DALI enables individual control, grouping, and integration into building management technology. Particularly relevant for offices, hotels, and public buildings.
Smart Home Integration
LED strips can be integrated into smart home systems: ZigBee, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or KNX. Control via app, voice assistant (Alexa, Google), or automation possible. At WATT24, you'll find compatible controllers and gateway solutions.
Application Examples for LED Strips
LED strips are suitable for diverse lighting tasks in residential, commercial, and industrial areas:
- Indirect lighting: Coves, suspended ceilings, light joints
- Furniture lighting: Under-cabinet lighting kitchen, shelf lighting, display case lighting
- Accent lighting: Picture frames, TV backlighting, niches
- Orientation lighting: Stair treads, handrails, corridors
- Task lighting: Workbenches, work surfaces, desks
- Outdoor lighting: Facades, terraces, pathways, carports
- Commercial applications: Retail lighting, trade show booths, restaurants, hotels
- Industrial applications: Machine lighting, storage racks, production lines
Frequently Asked Questions About LED Strips
LED strips, LED tape, and LED ribbon all refer to the same product – flexible light strips with soldered LED chips. These terms are used interchangeably. Other common names include LED light strips or LED band. Technically, there is no difference – these are just different terms for the same lighting solution.
For indirect lighting, LED strips with high luminous flux (at least 1000 lm/m) and good color rendering (CRI >90) are recommended. A high LED density (at least 120 LEDs/m) is important to achieve spot-free light without visible light cones. LED strips for coves should be mounted in aluminum profiles with diffusers to ensure even light distribution.
Standard LED strips are delivered in 5-meter rolls and can be cut at marked cutting points or extended with connectors. The maximum length without additional power feed is usually 5 meters for 12V systems and up to 10 meters for 24V systems. For longer runs, power must be fed in every 5-10 meters to avoid voltage drop and brightness loss.
For outdoor areas, LED strips with at least IP65 are required – these are dust-tight and protected against water jets. For direct weathering or buried applications, IP67 (temporary submersion) is recommended. For covered outdoor areas, IP44 is sufficient. Important: Connectors, power supplies, and profiles must also have the corresponding IP rating.
The CRI value (Color Rendering Index) indicates the color rendering quality of LED strips. CRI >80 is considered good and sufficient for most applications. High-quality LED strips achieve CRI >90 and are suitable for demanding areas such as retail spaces, restaurants, or living areas where natural color representation is important. Cheap LED strips often only have CRI 70-75.
RGBW LED strips are better than pure RGB models because they have a separate white LED in addition to red, green, and blue. RGB strips only produce an unnatural, bluish white through color mixing. RGBW delivers true white with better color quality. For maximum flexibility in color temperature, RGBWW LED strips (with warm white and cool white LEDs) are the best choice.
The required power depends on the application: 5-10 W/m is sufficient for accent lighting, 10-15 W/m for indirect lighting, and 15-25 W/m for main lighting. High-performance LED strips reach up to 30 W/m. Important: When selecting the power supply, consider the total length and plan for 20% power reserve.
Yes, high-quality LED strips pay for themselves through longer lifespan (50,000h instead of 15,000h), better efficiency (higher lumens per watt), more stable color temperature without color shift, and higher-quality materials (thicker copper traces, better LEDs). Cheap LED strips often fail earlier, have uneven light, and yellowing coating. For professional installations, brand products from Ledvance, EVN, or Tridonic are the better choice.
Buy LED Strips at WATT24
At WATT24, you'll find high-quality LED strips for professional lighting projects. Our range includes LED strips from leading manufacturers such as Ledvance, EVN Lichttechnik, and Weloom, as well as complete accessories for professional installation.
Advantages when buying from WATT24:
- Large selection of LED strips for every application
- Only brand quality from reputable manufacturers
- Complete accessories: profiles, power supplies, controllers, connectors
- Professional advice from lighting experts
- Fast delivery and attractive conditions for electricians and commercial customers
- Technical support for planning and installation