A 12V LED power supply converts AC input voltage into a stable 12V DC output to power LED lighting products.
12V power supplies are commonly used for:
However, because the voltage is lower, a 12V system requires higher current when delivering the same power.
A 24V LED power supply converts AC input voltage into a stable 24V DC output and is widely used in commercial and industrial LED lighting applications.
Common applications include:
For professional lighting projects, 24V LED power supplies are often preferred because they provide better stability.
The main difference between 12V and 24V systems is current.
The formula is:
Current (A) = Power (W) ÷ Voltage (V)
For example, with a 240W LED lighting system:
240W ÷ 12V = 20A
240W ÷ 24V = 10A
A 24V system requires only half the current compared with a 12V system.
Lower current helps reduce heat generation and improves system stability.
For projects with long LED strips or large lighting areas, 24V power supplies usually provide better performance.
The choice depends on your application.
Examples:
Examples:
Because a 24V system operates with lower current, it generally produces less heat in cables and connections.
Benefits include:
For professional LED lighting applications, 24V LED power supplies are becoming increasingly popular.
Before selecting a power supply, consider:
Make sure the power supply voltage matches your LED product.
For example:
Never connect a 12V LED product to a 24V power supply.
Choose a power supply with enough wattage.
A common recommendation is to leave around 20% extra capacity.
Example:
If your LED load is 200W:
Recommended power supply:
200W × 120% = 240W
Consider where the power supply will be installed.
Indoor applications:
Outdoor applications:
Both 12V and 24V LED power supplies have their own advantages.
For small indoor lighting projects, a 12V LED power supply can be a suitable choice.
For commercial lighting, long-distance installations, and higher-power applications, a 24V LED power supply is usually the better solution because of lower current, reduced voltage drop, and improved stability.
As a professional LED Power Supply Manufacturer, LIAM Electronics provides reliable 12V and 24V switching power supply solutions for various LED lighting applications.
Contact us for customized LED power supply solutions for your projects.