Whether you opt for high or low voltage LED strips, one offers advantages over the other depending on whether you use them (Commercial, Industrial or Residential), how they are to be installed and energy efficiency. LED strips are available in high voltage using 110V or 220V; these LED strips are used in large scale and outdoor applications that require a long continuous run of lighting. On the other hand, low voltage LED strips work at either 12V or 24V, and are suit to small indoor installations that may require a more exacting installation or safety.
For quite a long times, we have heard of high voltage LED strips that can be done up to 50 meters continuously without losing any volts which mean consistent brightness on sites. As such, they are perfect for highlighting architecture elements, commercial signage, or very long pathways. By contrast, because using low voltage strips allows you little choice but to stay under 5-10m per power supply (otherwise the voltage drop is so great that you get dimming unless in parallel), and also because some suppliers may not make a difference between 140W supply and a much larger one in terms of price.
Power and efficiency also vary in the two types. For large installations, I prefer to use high voltage LED strips as they are more power-efficient and you need fewer power supplies. A high voltage LED strip running at 220V will only need one power connection point for a whole 50-meter run, compared to low voltage strips that might require five different power supplies installed along the same length. It effectively reduces the cost, installation time and power equipment for very large projects so that can eventually bring high voltage LED strips better competitive ability.
Low voltage options are usually selected for safety, however. Running at 12V or 24V, the low level LED strips carry reduced energy and pose little if any electrical shock risk, which is great for residential settings when contact is expected. High voltage LED strip need good insulation (risk of electric shock) and a professional installation to be suitable for use outside or in damp places. It is common to use the CRI 90+ high voltage LED strip for waterproof purpose out of doors, etc.. where the product can enjoy a higher rated IP65 level plus wind pressure capacity, dust and water protection.
Another thing, you need to consider durability and lifespan. High and low voltage strips can both go the distance for up to 50,000 hours, but high voltage versions are more likely to trust a teeter-totter of power surges that will give you performance issues if not mitigated. Low voltage LED strips are generally more efficient in settings with a manual dimmer or color control, mainly because they work better with advanced dimmers and controllers.
When it comes to light output, high voltage LED strips tend to provide more lumens per meter, beneficial in applications that must be particularly bright like commercial spaces. Low voltage LED strips are used for residential and ambient lighting, which provide sufficient luminosity as well as color temperature adjustment and brightness settings.
In the end, whether you purchase a high voltage LED strip or opt for low voltage will depend on the scope of your project, its safety challenges, and how well it meets your lighting needs. The benefits differ in each kind and, if used correctly, you can obtain installations more efficient, safe and with a better visual aspect, tailored for different environments.