When it comes to LED lighting, especially for professional applications such as signs, backlights or lightboxes, one of the most frequently asked questions is: is it better 12V or 24V?
If you have arrived here, you are probably looking for a clear and definitive answer. We’ll help you get clarity on everything about the difference between 12V and 24V power supplies, so you can choose the right product based on your installation.
Why is tension important?
In the world of LED lighting, voltage (expressed in volts) does not directly affect module brightness, but it does affect efficiency, cable length, voltage drop, and system stability.
A 12V LED module and a 24V LED module, if designed with the same chips and materials, can have the same brightness. However, what changes is power management.
The higher the voltage, the less current is required to carry the same power. This means:
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Less energy dissipation
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Thinner cables (for the same performance)
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Less overheating
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Larger distances between the power supply and the modules
This is why it is crucial to carefully consider the voltage to be used, especially when working on large or complex installations.
What changes from 12V to 24V in LED modules?
1. Voltage drop
With 12V, the voltage drop is more pronounced. This means that the further you move away from the ballast, the more the light intensity tends to decrease, especially if the cables are long or undersized.
The 24V significantly reduces this problem, offering greater light stability throughout the LED module chain.
2. Efficiency and consumption
In a 24V system, the current is half that of a 12V for the same power. This results in less leakage and more energy efficiency.
In practice, even though the power consumed is the same, a 24V system heats less, lasts longer and requires less maintenance.
3. Simplified installation
With 24V you can connect more modules in series than with 12V, making the system neater and reducing the amount of wiring needed.
What happens if I put a 12V module on a 24V power supply?
This is one of the most important questions to address, because error is common but fatal.
⚠️ If you connect a 12V LED module to a 24V power supply, the module will be irreversibly damaged.
Internal components, designed to receive half the voltage, will quickly overheat and stop working within seconds. Short-circuiting may also occur in some cases.
The golden rule is simple:
👉 Power supply and module must always have the same voltage.
To help you choose, visit the section on LED power supplies compatible with our LED modules.
Where is 12V used and where is 24V used?
The answer depends on the type of design, the distance between feeder and modules, and the space available.
When to choose 12V:
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Small illuminated signs
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Boxes with integrated power supplies
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Simple installations with few modules
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Projects with very short cable lengths
When to choose 24V:
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Large or long signs
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Installations on multiple floors or distant from the feeder
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Large lightbox
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When you want to reduce wiring costs
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Professional installations with high standards of efficiency
In summary: 12V is great for simplicity and compactness, while 24V is the right choice for power, stability and long-term savings.
RGB LED strips: better 12V or 24V?
RGB LED strips are widely used to create dynamic color effects on signs, light surrounds, storefronts and interiors.
But here again the same dilemma arises: better 12V or 24V?
RGB LED strips 12V
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They have shorter segments (usually 3 LEDs every 5cm)
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They fit better in small spaces and tight curves
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Require close power supplies and more frequent checks
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They risk dips in brightness on long square footage
RGB LED Strips 24V
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They allow long, continuous lines without interruption
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They have longer segments, fewer cuts and fewer joints
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Simplified cable and controller management
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More suitable for professional installations or commercial environments
🔗 Discover the full range of LED modules and strips available in our store.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a 24V power supply for 12V modules if I add a resistor?
No. Even with a resistor, the system will not be stable or safe. Always use power supplies of the same voltage as the modules.
Can I put 12V and 24V modules together in the same system?
No. It should be avoided at all costs. Two separate circuits should be designed.
Do 24V modules cost more?
Not necessarily. Sometimes the unit cost is slightly higher, but considering that fewer power supplies and fewer cables are needed, the total cost of the system may be lower.
Practical examples: which voltage to choose
| Type of sign | Recommended choice |
|---|---|
| Logo light on a display case (1m) | 12V |
| 5-meter sign on exterior facade | 24V |
| Cassette inside the sales counter | 12V |
| 2x1m lightbox at airport | 24V |
| RGB contour of a nightclub | 24V RGB |
| Suspended sign with remote power supply | 24V |
How to figure out what tension I need?
The easiest way to figure this out is to assess the distance, power and complexity of the system.
If you have any doubts, you can always turn to our technical team: we are ready to help you design the best system, with the right combination of modules, strips and power supplies.
Conclusion: the right tension makes all the difference
Choosing between 12V and 24V is not just a technical matter: it is a strategic choice to ensure you have a long-lasting, efficient and high-performing system.
In our catalog you will find only professional LED modules, tested and guaranteed to offer maximum reliability even in demanding environments.
Visit the dedicated categories to discover the products best suited to your needs:
🔗 LED modules
🔗 LED power supplies.
🔧 Do you need support?
Our team is available to give you technical assistance, customized quotes and advice on material selection.
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