What is the difference between a strip light and a tape light?
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The terms "strip light" and "tape light" are often used interchangeably, but they can refer to slightly different forms of LED lighting. Let's break down the differences between the two:
1. Strip Light:
- Definition: LED strip lights (or LED ribbons) are flexible boards with LEDs mounted on them, usually equipped with an adhesive backing for easy installation. They are often sold in long, continuous lengths and can be cut to size along marked lines.
- Design: The strip light generally has a narrow, flat, and long shape. The strip is often mounted on a flexible PCB (Printed Circuit Board) that contains the LEDs.
- Light Output: Strip lights are typically designed to offer bright, consistent lighting over long distances. They may have a more robust and industrial look compared to tape lights.
- Applications: Strip lights are commonly used for decorative lighting, task lighting, or accent lighting in kitchens, bedrooms, living rooms, or even commercial environments.
Pros of LED Strip Lights:
- Can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications (with proper waterproofing).
- Bright and powerful lighting, good for longer runs.
- Available in a wide range of colors and brightness levels.
- Flexible, which allows easy installation in curved or angled spaces.
2. Tape Light:
- Definition: Tape light is a term commonly used to describe LED strip lights that are mounted on a flexible tape backing, typically made of silicon or adhesive-backed tape. This tape allows for easy installation on smooth surfaces like ceilings, under cabinets, or along baseboards.
- Design: Tape lights are essentially a specific type of LED strip light but are often associated with being more flexible and having a thinner, more lightweight profile.
- Light Output: Tape lights generally have a lower profile, making them ideal for locations where a discrete, hidden light source is needed. They may not always be as bright as traditional strip lights.
- Applications: Tape lights are often used for under-cabinet lighting, mood lighting, or backlighting behind TVs or monitors. They can also be used for signage or vehicle accent lighting.
Pros of LED Tape Lights:
- Ideal for hidden or subtle lighting installations.
- Typically easy to install with an adhesive backing that sticks to most surfaces.
- Very flexible and can be easily molded to fit small spaces.
- Often thin enough to be used in places where space is limited (like between a wall and furniture).
Key Differences Between LED Strip Lights and LED Tape Lights:
| Feature | LED Strip Lights | LED Tape Lights |
|---|---|---|
| Thickness | Usually slightly thicker, with a more rigid structure. | Typically thinner and more flexible. |
| Flexibility | Flexible but more rigid compared to tape lights. | Extremely flexible and bendable, often made of soft tape material. |
| Back Adhesive | May or may not have adhesive backing. | Always comes with adhesive backing for easy installation. |
| Application | Often used for general lighting or accent lighting. | Typically used for under-cabinet lighting, backlighting, and decorative lighting. |
| Light Output | Can provide higher brightness for larger areas. | Generally provides lower brightness, ideal for more discreet setups. |
| Size | Available in various widths and lengths. | Typically more uniform in width, with a narrow profile. |
Summary:
- Both LED strip lights and LED tape lights refer to flexible lighting options, but strip lights tend to be thicker and more rigid, while tape lights are typically thinner, more flexible, and easier to install in confined spaces.
- The choice between them often comes down to the application and how visible or discreet you want the light source to be. For larger, brighter installations or general lighting, you might choose LED strip lights. For subtle, hidden lighting, accent lighting, or tight spaces, LED tape lights would be the better option.
