The Differences between RGB & RGBW LED Strip Lights

What are RGB LED Strip Lights?

RGB LED strip lights are flexible strips of light that contain red, green, and blue LEDs. They can be used to create a wide variety of colours and effects, making them a popular choice for home decoration, parties, and other events.

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RGB LED strip lights are typically powered by a low-voltage power supply, and they can be controlled using a variety of methods, including remote controls, smartphone apps, and voice assistants. They are also relatively easy to install.

What are RGBW LED Strip Lights?

RGBW LED strip lights are an enhanced version of RGB LED strip lights, incorporating an additional white LED chip alongside the traditional red, green, and blue LEDs. This white LED chip allows for the creation of a wider range of colours, including pure white, pastel shades, and more vibrant hues.

Why would I use RGBW over RGB LED Strip lights?

RGB LEDs output primary colours where RGBWs  can output primary and pastel colours

Compared to standard RGB LED strip lights, RGBW LED strip lights offer several advantages:

Enhanced Colour Mixing: The addition of a white LED chip enables RGBW strip lights to produce a broader spectrum of colours, including true white and subtle pastel shades. This versatility makes them suitable for a wider range of applications, from vibrant party lighting to subtle mood lighting.

Brighter White Illumination: The dedicated white LED chip provides a brighter and more consistent white illumination compared to mixing red, green, and blue LEDs to achieve white light. This makes RGBW strip lights ideal for tasks that require functional white lighting, such as under-cabinet lighting or task lighting.

Improved Colour Saturation: The presence of a white LED chip can enhance the saturation and vibrancy of other colours produced by the RGB LEDs. This is because the white light helps to fill in any gaps in the colour mixing, resulting in richer and more intense colours.

Energy Efficiency: By utilising a dedicated white LED chip, RGBW strip lights can achieve a desired colour balance more efficiently than RGB strip lights, which may need to overpower certain colours to compensate for the lack of a white LED. This can lead to reduced energy consumption.

In general, RGBW LED strip lights are a more versatile and enhanced lighting solution than RGB LED strip lights. They are a good choice for applications where you need true white lighting, subtle pastel colours, vibrant hues, or a combination of functional and decorative lighting.

Here is a table summarising the key differences between RGBW and RGB LED strip lights:

Feature RGBW LED Strip Lights RGB LED Strip Lights Colour Mixing Wider range of colours, including true white and pastel shades Limited range of colours White Illumination Brighter and more consistent white light White light achieved by mixing RGB LEDs, which may be less bright and consistent Colour Saturation Improved colour saturation and vibrancy Colour saturation may be lower, especially for colours close to white Energy Efficiency May be more energy efficient due to more efficient colour mixing Energy consumption may be slightly higher

Which is better: RGB or RGBW LED Strip Lights?

Whether RGB or RGBW LED strip lights are better depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here’s a summary of the pros and cons of each type:

RGB LED Strip Lights

Pros:

Wider colour spectrum, allowing for a greater variety of colour combinations
More vibrant and saturated colours, especially in the red and green ranges.
Generally less expensive than RGBW LED strip lights

Cons:

White light quality is not as pure or natural-looking as true white light
May not be suitable for applications where true white illumination is essential

RGBW LED Strip Lights

Pros:

Produces a purer and more natural-looking white light
Ideal for applications where true white illumination is required
Can also produce vibrant colours, but not as saturated as RGB LED strip lights

Cons:

Generally more expensive than RGB LED strip lights
Colour spectrum is slightly narrower than RGB LED strip lights
In general, RGB LED strip lights are better suited for applications where vibrant colours and mood lighting are the primary focus. RGBW LED strip lights are ideal for applications where true white illumination is essential, such as general lighting or task lighting.

Here’s a table summarising the key differences between RGB and RGBW LED strip lights:

Feature RGB LED Strip Lights RGBW LED Strip Lights Primary Colors Red, Green, Blue Red, Green, Blue, White White Light Quality Good Excellent Colour Saturation Excellent  Good Application Suitability Vibrant Colors, Mood Lighting True White Lighting, General Lighting, Task Lighting

Are the controllers different for RGB strip lights and RGBW strip lights?

The controllers for RGB and RGBW strip lights are different. RGB LED strip lights require a 3-channel controller that can control the intensity of the red, green, and blue LEDs independently. RGBW LED strip lights require a 4-channel controller that can control the intensity of the red, green, blue, and white LEDs independently.

This difference in controllers is due to the additional white LED chip in RGBW strip lights. The white LED chip needs to be controlled separately from the RGB LEDs in order to produce a pure white light.

If you are using an RGB controller with an RGBW strip light, the white LED chip will not be able to be controlled separately, and the white light will not be as pure or natural-looking.

In addition to the number of channels, RGB and RGBW controllers may also have different features, such as:

Preset colour modes
Dimming capabilities
Music synchronisation
Remote control compatibility

It is important to choose the right controller for your specific needs. If you are not sure which controller to choose please just ask.

Are RGBW LED Strip Lights more difficult to install than RGB LED Strip Lights?

RGBW LED strip lights are not more difficult to install than RGB LED strip lights. The installation process for both types of strip lights is very similar.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install RGBW LED strip lights:

Clean the surface: Clean the surface where you want to install the strip lights to remove any dirt, dust, or grease. Use alcohol or rubbing alcohol for effective cleaning.

Measure and cut the strip lights: Determine the length of strip lights you need and cut them along designated cutting marks using scissors or wire cutters.

Connect the power supply: Attach the power supply connector to the strip lights, ensuring proper polarity. Most strip lights have clear markings for positive (+) and negative (-) terminals.

Mount the strip lights: Peel off the adhesive backing on the strip lights and carefully adhere them to the clean surface. Use mounting clips for additional support if needed.

Test the lights: Plug in the power supply and turn on the lights. If the lights fail to illuminate, check the connections and ensure correct polarity.

Are you considering installing neon signs for your home, or event venue? Traditionally, neon signs were made of glass neon lights and are still widely used today. With the development of modern technology, LED neon flex has been developed, which is very popular in the LED market. These two kinds of neon lights have their own characteristics. But comparing Glass Neon Lights vs. LED Neon Flex, which one is better?

In this article, we will analyze and compare the characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages of glass neon flex lights vs LED neon flex lights from all aspects. In order to help you choose the most suitable solution for your lighting project.

For more information, please visit led neon flex rgbw(da,de,fr)(fi,nl,cs).

What is Glass Neon Lights

Glass Neon lights refer to a lighting system made of glass tubes filled with neon gas in various shapes. When an electric current passes through the gas, it produces all sorts of bright lights.

One of the most distinctive features of glass neon signs is their vibrant and unique colors. Different gases emit different bright lights when excited by an electric current. Moreover, other gases can also mix with each other to produce undesirable colors.

What is LED Neon Flex?

The LED Neon Flex is a modern alternative to traditional glass neon signs. It is a modern lighting technology that mimics the look of traditional neon lights. Its light source comes from LED strip lights wrapped in a flexible plastic tube. It’s soft and pliable while providing contouring beauty.

Advantages & Disadvantages of Glass Neon Lights

Let’s analyze the advantages and disadvantages of glass neon tubes in detail, which can help you know more about this product. In this way, you can choose the right product more rationally.

Advantages of Glass Neon Flex

Brightness

Glass neon flex lights can improve brightness, mainly depending on the type of gas it is used on, tube diameter, etc. Thus, it creates a bold and eye-catching display.

Lifespan

Glass neon flex lights can also have a long life if cared for properly. They can also withstand multiple exposures without loss of brightness. Making it a durable lighting option.

Color

Glass neon flex lights are available in a variety of colors. From standard shades of blue, red, and green to more unusual colors like pink, purple, and yellow. All of these colors depend on the gas used in the tube.

Customization

Glass neon flex can be bent into intricate designs and shapes, mainly forming logos, shapes, and intricate designs. Fits almost any design or branding need.

Size

Glass neon flex lights can be made in various sizes. It can be anything from a small tabletop sign to a large outdoor installation. The size of the neon sign can be easily adapted to the installation space and purpose.

Disadvantages of Glass Neon Lights

Glass neon lights are certified over the years and have many advantages. But at the same time, in order to help you choose a product better, the following are some of its disadvantages.

Fragility

Glass neon tubes are very fragile. This means that they can easily break if hit by hard objects during installation and maintenance. And while in transit, be sure to pack it well to prevent any accidental breakage.

Security Issues

Glass Neon Flex has certain security risks. Because it contains gas in its body, it needs a high-voltage electrical connection to produce neon lights. This combination may cause electrical hazards such as electric shock or short circuits.

Energy Consumption

Glass neon is not energy efficient; it tends to use more energy than LED neon. It is mainly composed of a glass tube filled with neon gas in the body, which requires high-voltage discharge and a large amount of electric energy. So it consumes a lot of power.

Heat

Glass Neon Flex generates a lot of heat during operation. This will cause the temperature of the surrounding environment to rise. However, this thermal energy is difficult to dissipate, especially in closed spaces or environments that are sensitive to temperature fluctuations.

Complicated Installation

Its raw material is glass tubes, which are heavier compared to LED neon lights. This extra weight can present challenges during shipping and installation. Therefore, when installing, we need to consider more structural support to ensure safety and stability.

Higher Cost

Glass neon tubes require more careful production and transportation, and more labor, and raw material costs. Another is the later maintenance fee, which is very expensive. Mainly because of the cost of replacement parts and labor, it also requires a lot of effort. These factors lead to higher production costs, making glass neon flex a more expensive option.

All in all, glass neon flex continues to be popular for its classic aesthetic and vibrant glow. Although there are more lighting products to choose from now, it still attracts us with its unique charm.

Advantages & Disadvantages of LED Neon Flex

The LED Neon Flex is known for its durability and flexibility. Now more and more people choose LED neon tubes because of its energy saving, long life, easy installation, etc. The following are the advantages and disadvantages of LED neon tubes:

Advantages of Glass Neon Flex

Durability

LED neon flex lights are popular for their durability and long lifespan. And it’s also made of flexible silicone tubing that’s resistant to UV rays, heat, and other environmental factors. Compared with glass neon flex lights, you don’t need to worry about problems during transportation and installation, as long as it is not a big shock, it will not be damaged.

Safety

LED Neon Flex operates on low voltage DC24V, and DC12V, so it greatly reduces the risk of electric shock. In the correct transportation and installation process, there will be no safety hazards.

Flexibility

Flexibility and variability are one of the main advantages of LED neon flex lights. Unlike traditional glass neon signs, LED neon flex lights can be bent and shaped to suit a variety of applications. It also supports custom lengths to suit any space.

Energy Saving

LED neon lights save up to 75% more energy than traditional neon lights, making them more energy efficient. The main reason is that traditional neon lights use gas and high pressure to emit light, while the main light source of LED neon flex lights comes from LED light strips. This means LED neon flex lights are more energy efficient, saving costs in the long run.

Maintenance and Lifespan

LED Neon Flex has a very long lifespan, generally a 3–5-year warranty. In the later stage, you don’t need to spend a lot of money and material resources to maintain it, and it has a longer service life than glass neon lights.

Easy Installation

LED Neon Flex is very easy to install. You can even try to install it yourself; we can install it with the help of 3M adhesive and mounting accessories. But it is worth noting that you need to confirm the installation process with the supplier in advance and install it correctly according to the process.

Shape

LED neon flex is available in a variety of bending options. There is a top bend, side bend, 3D neon, and 360° round series neon lights. Before you buy a suitable LED neon tube, be sure to understand the bending types and uses of LED neon lights as follows:

• Top Bend Series
• Side Bend Series
• 3D Neon Series
• 360° Round Series

Disadvantages of LED Neon Flex

Higher Upfront Costs

LED Neon Flex may involve higher upfront costs compared to traditional glass neon signs. Because it’s machine extruded in one piece, high-quality LED components, flexible plastic tubing, and more. Therefore, its production cost is relatively high, and the price will be a little more expensive. However, it is important to note that these upfront costs can be offset by long-term energy savings and reduced maintenance needs.

Light Temperature Variation

LED neon lights provide different color temperature options. For example, from warm white to cool white, and various color options. However, everyone is different in color temperature. Each supplier may produce slightly different batches and color consistency.

Limited Brightness

LED neon lights have a specific brightness. However, certain color options or specific designs may result in a slight reduction in brightness compared to glass neon signs. This difference in brightness may be individual and not noticeable without looking carefully, but it can be considered in applications where maximum brightness is a priority.

Glass Neon Lights vs. LED Neon Flex: A Comprehensive Comparison

LED neon flex lights and glass neon lights are two lighting methods. They can be used both indoors and outdoors, mainly for signage, architectural lighting, and artistic purposes. Both neon lights are used to achieve a similar aesthetic, both in shape and light.

However, there are still obvious differences between them. In the previous section, we analyzed the advantages and disadvantages of each. Next, we comprehensively analyze the differences between the two, so that you can understand them clearly.

Cost

• Glass Neon Lights: The price of glass neon signs is not high. But its later installation, transportation and maintenance costs are quite high. Because glass neon tubes have the appearance of glass, they are fragile. During shipping and installation, it will add extra cost.
• LED Neon Flex Lights: The price of LED neon lights will be more expensive, which is the raw material in the early stage. Because it is extruded by an all-in-one machine, there are high-quality light sources, silicon materials for appearance, and so on. But its later installation and replacement are guaranteed, and you don’t need to spend a lot of energy and financial resources to maintain it.

Durability

• Glass Neon Lights: The glass neon light is a glass tube that is easily broken, and the glass is full of gas. High voltage is required to light up, which can easily cause flickering of the lights. In addition, it is not suitable for inclement weather conditions.
• LED Neon Flex Lights: LED neon flex lights are produced from PVC or silicone, which are durable materials that can withstand harsh weather conditions and accidental impacts. In addition, it uses a low-voltage power supply, which is safer and more durable.

Energy Efficiency

• Glass Neon Lights: Glass neon lights use high voltages and are expensive to run. They require high voltages to operate and consume a lot of energy, as well as being a higher safety hazard.
• LED Neon Flex Lights: LED neon flex lights use low voltage, DC12V, and DC24V. It is very energy-efficient, with low electricity costs and increased safety.

Safety

Glass Neon Lights: Glass neon lights glass is fragile and can cause serious injury if mishandled. In addition, a large amount of heat is generated, which may pose a safety hazard. So the safety factor is not high.
LED Neon Flex Lights: LED neon flex lights are made of plastic/silicon/PU, don’t worry about breakage. In addition, it is heat-resistant, and accessories can also be used to assist in heat dissipation. And can adapt to all kinds of bad weather conditions. In short, the safety factor is high and the risk is low.

Easy to Install

• Glass Neon Lights: Glass neon tubes are a bit heavy, so be very careful when installing them. You also need to plan your installation in advance. Therefore, it is best to have a glass neon engineer present to assist during installation.
• LED Neon Flex Lights: LED neon flex lights are lightweight and easy to install. Installing the accessories is also simple and does not require an additional person to install. However, it is necessary to confirm the installation accessories and steps with the supplier in advance, and the installation is simple and not complicated.

Portability

• Glass Neon Lights: Glass neon lights are heavy and fragile due to their glass appearance. It is easy to be damaged during transportation, so we need extra packing.
• LED Neon Flex Lights: LED neon flex is lightweight and easy to transport. You don’t need to add extra shipping costs, it’s durable during shipping.

Maintenance

• Glass Neon Lights: The later use of glass neon lights requires a lot of maintenance costs and requires regular cleaning and maintenance by professionals.
• LED Neon Flex Lights: LED neon flex lights do not require a lot of energy and post-maintenance costs. You just need to clean the exterior regularly with a damp rag.

Glass Neon Lights vs. LED Neon Flex: Which is Better for Commercial Signage?

Commercial signage depends on the size of the sign, where it will be installed, and what you will be using it for. Consider the following factors:

• Energy consumption: LED neon signs consume less energy than neon lights. Therefore, more electricity bills can be saved.
• SAFE – Glass neon signs are fragile and heat up. LED neon flex lights are wrapped in a flexible material, usually with a shatterproof acrylic back for better heat dissipation.
• Versatility – LED neon tubes are more flexible and can be bent more tightly, giving you better options for sign shapes and styles.
• Appearance Aesthetics – Both types of logos are good at attracting attention. Glass neon tubes will be more suitable for retro style. The bright, clean, modern look of LED neon signs is very popular.
• Attractive – LED neon lights will be brighter and even sparkle can be seen during the day, while glass tube neon lights have a softer light that stands out more after dark.
• Cost – the maintenance cost of glass neon tubes is high in the later stage, while the upfront cost of LED neon lights will be higher. Overall, LED neon tubes are the most cost-effective option.
• Installation requirements – LED neon tubes will be lighter and easier to install. You can place it on the counter or hang it on the wall.

The Benefits of Using LED Neon Lights as Neon Signs

If you need to make a neon sign(store/decorate sign), comparing Glass Neon Lights vs. LED Neon Flex, there are several factors to consider:

1. Durability: LED signs are more durable, less fragile, and less likely to break.
2. Customizability: LED signs have more flexibility in color, length, and appearance.
3. Brightness and Intensity: LED signs typically offer higher brightness and intensity than neon signs.
4. ENERGY CONSUMPTION: LED signs consume less energy than neon lights, saving on electricity bills.
5. Price: LED signs are often more cost-effective than neon signs.
6. Maintenance and Longevity: LED signs require less maintenance and last longer.
7. Safety: LED signs use a low-voltage power supply to reduce safety risks.
8. Environmental Comparison: LED signs are considered more environmentally friendly due to their energy efficiency and lack of toxic gases.

Glass Neon Lights vs. LED Neon Flex Lights: Which Is Better and Why?

Glass neon lights are great for retro decor and will add a touch of nostalgia to your space. However, it does not save energy and has a low lifespan. At the same time, it is also easy to break during transportation and installation. Additionally, they operate under high pressure, which can pose a safety risk.

On the other hand, LED neon lights are more energy-efficient and have a longer service life. It can be bent at will and has more flexibility. LED neon tube supports customization, such as length, color temperature, label, and so on. LED neon signs also work on low voltage, making them safer.

In summary, in all aspects of comparison, LED neon lights are a better choice for most applications. However, you need to choose the most suitable product according to your lighting engineering needs. We have comprehensively analyzed their respective advantages and disadvantages, as well as comparisons, and hope you can find the lighting products that suit you. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal needs and priorities.

Are you interested in learning more about Custom LED Light Strip? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!