LED Strip Technical Parameters: How to Choose the Right Specs
Choosing LED strips involves terms like lumens, CRI, and IP ratings. Selecting the wrong parameters can lead to poor lighting or safety risks. This guide breaks down the core parameters and how to match them to your project.
The 10 Core Technical Parameters
- Brightness (lm/m): ambient ≤300, task 300–600, high-intensity ≥600
- Color temperature (K): warm 2700–3000K, neutral 4000K, cool 6000K+ — keep ±200K tolerance in one space
- CRI: general ≥80, retail/art ≥90, photography ≥95
- Voltage: 12V for short runs, 24V for long runs and commercial projects
- LED density: 60 LEDs/m for hidden cove, 120+ for direct view
- Beam angle: 120° for wide wash, 60° for focused
- IP rating: IP20 indoor, IP65 splash, IP68 submersible
- Power (W/m): size the supply at 120% of total load
- Control protocol: on/off, smart, or DMX512 for pixel-level precision
4 Costly Pitfalls to Avoid
- Fake CRI claims — request IES files
- Voltage drop over 5 m on 12V — use 24V or inject power mid-run
- Hidden flicker from low-quality drivers — test with a phone camera
- Poor heat management — use aluminum channels for >10 W/m strips
For waterproofing guidance, see our IP ratings guide.