LED Strip Lights

LED strip lights are versatile lighting components widely used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. They consist of multiple surface-mounted LEDs (SMD LEDs) arranged along a strip, which may be flexible (often called LED tape) or rigid (commonly referred to as LED modules). Strip lighting is user-friendly and efficient, eliminating the need to install individual light fixtures across large areas.

One key factor to consider when choosing LED strip lights is brightness, typically measured in lumens per foot. A high-quality LED strip should offer at least 450 lumens per foot, delivering brightness levels comparable to traditional fluorescent lighting. This ensures sufficient illumination for tasks, accent lighting, or general ambient use, depending on the application.

Type of LED Strip Lights

LED strip lights come in various forms, each suited for different applications:

• Flexible LED Strips (LED Tape): Bendable and ideal for accent lighting, signage, or installations where space is limited. Commonly used under cabinets or around curved edges.
• Rigid LED Strips (LED Bars): Mounted on an aluminium backing for durability, these are ideal for industrial applications or linear lighting in retail and display environments.
• **RGB and RGBW LED Strips: **Allow dynamic colour changes with remote or smart control, perfect for entertainment spaces, architectural features, or mood lighting.
• High CRI LED Strips: Designed for applications where accurate colour rendering is crucial, such as galleries, studios, or retail displays.
• Waterproof LED Strips: With high IP ratings, these strips are suited for outdoor use or damp environments like bathrooms and kitchens.

What Colours are LED Strip Lights?

LED strip lights are available in a wide range of colours to suit different applications and moods. One of the most popular options is white LED strips, which come in various colour temperatures (CCT). CCT affects the overall ambience of a space:

• Warm white (around 2700K–3000K): Offers a soft, cosy glow ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, or hospitality settings.
• Cool white (around 4000K–5000K): Provides a brighter, more neutral light often used in offices, kitchens, or workshops.
• **Daylight/cold white (above 5000K): **Produces a crisp, blue-toned light suitable for industrial or task-focused environments.

For more dynamic effects, coloured LED strips are also available. Options include RGB (red, green, blue) and RGBW (red, green, blue, white) strips, which allow you to mix colours or create lighting scenes. Some colour-chasing strips can even be programmed for custom lighting sequences.

Another key factor is the Colour Rendering Index (CRI), which measures how accurately colours appear under the light source. A CRI of 80 or higher is generally recommended for most environments, while 90+ CRI is ideal for tasks that require true colour fidelity, such as photography, retail displays, or design work.

Do I Need a LED Lighting Controller?

An LED lighting controller isn’t always necessary, but it can greatly enhance functionality and flexibility — especially for RGB, RGBW, or colour-changing LED strip lights. With a controller, you can adjust brightness levels, switch between colours, create lighting effects, or set schedules.

For simple white LED strips, a basic dimmer may be sufficient. However, if you want dynamic lighting scenes or smart home integration, a controller is highly recommended. Make sure to choose one that’s compatible with your strip type and voltage.

Considerations for Outdoor LED Strip Lights

When choosing LED strip lights for outdoor use, it’s important to select products built to withstand weather exposure while maintaining brightness and aesthetic appeal. Here are two key factors to consider:

Waterproof Rating

Outdoor LED strip lights should come with an appropriate IP (Ingress Protection) rating based on their intended placement.

• IP20: Suitable for indoor use only; not waterproof
• IP45: Splash-resistant; ideal for covered outdoor areas
• IP65 to IP68: Fully waterproof and protected against rain, dust, and even brief immersion; ideal for garden paths, patios, signage, and architectural lighting

The higher the IP rating, the better the protection — but also the higher the cost due to the water-tight encapsulation.

Industrial LED Strip Lights vs Commercial LED Strip Lights

When selecting LED strip lights, it’s important to understand the differences between industrial and commercial types to choose the most suitable option.

• Industrial LED Strip Lights: Built for tough environments, these strips offer higher lumen output, robust construction, and higher IP ratings (IP65–IP68) for protection against dust, water, and impact. They're ideal for warehouses, factories, loading bays, and outdoor operations requiring consistent, bright lighting.
• Commercial LED Strip Lights: Designed for retail, hospitality, and office environments, commercial LED strips focus on aesthetics, energy efficiency, and controlled brightness. They’re typically easier to install and support features like dimming, smart control, and RGB customisation.

When deciding between industrial and commercial LED strip lights, keep the following factors in mind:

• **Location of installation – **Indoor or outdoor, dry or wet area
• Brightness requirements – Check lumens per metre for sufficient visibility
• Durability – Material quality and IP rating for environmental resistance
• Colour temperature & customisation – Choose warm or cool tones, or RGB/RGBW for dynamic control
• Control options – Manual, remote, or smart automation compatibility
• Budget and energy efficiency – Consider long-term running costs and power consumption

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying LED Strip Lights

When selecting LED strip lights, it’s easy to overlook key factors that can impact performance and longevity. Here are common things to avoid:

• Overlooking power requirements: Always ensure your power supply matches the LED strip’s voltage and total wattage. An underpowered setup can lead to dim lighting or even damage your LEDs.
• **Ignoring heat dissipation: **Failing to manage heat can shorten the lifespan of your LED strips. Use aluminium channels or heat sinks to promote airflow and prevent overheating.
• Neglecting compatibility: Not all controllers, dimmers, or power supplies are universally compatible. Always confirm that your accessories are suitable for the type and voltage of the LED strip you’re using.

Applications of Commercial & Industrial LED Strip Lights

LED strip lights offer versatile lighting solutions across both commercial and industrial settings. Common applications include:

• Accent lighting: Perfect for enhancing architectural features in homes, retail spaces, and showrooms.
• Under-cabinet lighting: Frequently used in kitchens, workstations, and lab environments to provide focused task lighting.
• Shelf illumination: Ideal for product displays in retail or inventory areas in warehouses, improving visibility and presentation.
• **Media centre lighting: **Enhances the visual appeal of entertainment setups while reducing eye strain.
• Walkway lighting: Guides foot traffic safely in offices, factories, or outdoor areas like gardens and building perimeters.

LED strip lights are available in various lengths and brightness levels to suit different needs. With easy-to-use connectors and flexible installation options, they are a popular choice for both functional and decorative lighting.

Your Trusted LED Strip Lights Supplier & Manufacturer

RS is a trusted supplier and distributor of LED strip lights in Australia, offering a wide range of high-quality lighting solutions from leading brands like RS PRO, Lumileds, and Osram. Whether you need flexible LED tape for home projects or durable strip lighting for industrial applications, RS provides reliable options at competitive prices. With a commitment to quality and performance, we help ensure your lighting setup meets both functional and aesthetic requirements. For more information on how to order, our shipping services, and delivery charges, please refer to our Delivery Page.