360 guide to LED Strips: differences between RGB, RGBW, RGBWW, RGBIC and CCT

If you are considering improving the lighting of your home or office, you may have come across terms such as RGB, RGBW, RGBWW, RGBIC and CCT which as such do not help to understand their meaning. In fact, these acronyms refer to different types of LED strips, each with specific characteristics and different combinations of light emitting diodes.

So how do you choose it? It depends on your lighting needs, the color effects you want to achieve and the quality of white light you need. For this reason, by continuing to read we will see together the differences and how to choose the most suitable system for you.

What is an LED Strip

A LED strip is a flexible circuit on which small light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are mounted. These strips can be powered at low voltage (usually 12V or 24V) and are available in different color and brightness variations. LED strips can then be used for decorative, ambient or functional lighting and are often controllable via remote controls, apps or voice assistants.

What do RGB, RGBW and RGBWW mean?

* RGB (Red, Green, Blue): RGB LED strips contain three primary colors (red, green and blue) that, when combined, can create millions of different colors. However, they cannot generate pure, bright white light.

* RGBW (Red, Green, Blue, White): In addition to the RGB diodes, these strips have a separate white diode, which allows for a more natural and bright white light than the simple combination of the three RGB colors.

* RGBWW (Red, Green, Blue, Warm White): This variant includes a warm white diode (Warm White), which allows for a more cozy and home-like lighting.

What does RGBIC mean and why is it different?

RGBIC (Red, Green, Blue + Independent Control) LED strips have an independent control chip for each segment of the strip. This means they can create more complex and dynamic color effects than standard RGB strips, allowing you to have multiple colors displayed simultaneously on a single strip.

What is a CCT LED Strip?

CCT (Correlated Color Temperature) strips allow you to adjust the temperature of the white between warm and cool (for example, from 2700K to 6500K). Unlike RGB or RGBW strips, these do not have colors, but they allow you to change the shade of white to suit different lighting needs.

How to choose the right LED Strips?

The choice of LED strip depends on the effect you want to achieve:

* If you want a wide range of colors without the need for pure white light, opt for RGB strips.

* If you want quality white light in addition to colors, RGBW strips are a great choice.

* If you prefer warm and cozy lighting, choose RGBWW strips.

* If you want more advanced and multicolored lighting effects, RGBIC strips are the ideal solution.

* If your goal is to fine-tune the shade of white, choose CCT strips.

How to choose LED strip controllers?

Each type of LED strip needs a suitable controller. Here are some things to consider:

* Compatibility: Make sure the controller supports the type of LED strip you have chosen (RGB, RGBW, RGBWW, RGBIC, CCT).

* Control method: Some controllers work with infrared remotes, others with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth and can be integrated with voice assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant.

* Lighting effects: Advanced controllers allow you to create dynamic effects, smooth transitions and advanced customization.

How to connect a LED strip to a power supply?

Connecting a LED strip to the power supply is a fundamental step to ensure the correct functioning of the lighting system. Here are the main steps:

1. Check the voltage: make sure that the voltage of the power supply matches that of the LED strip (usually 12V or 24V).

2. Connect the cables: the LED strip has two main poles: positive (+) and negative (-). Connect the cables respectively to the corresponding terminals of the power supply.

3. Use an LED connector: if the strip has quick connectors, you can connect it directly without the need for soldering.

4. Connect a controller (if necessary): if you are using an RGB, RGBW or RGBIC strip, connect the controller between the power supply and the strip to manage the colors and light effects.

5. Test the lighting: turn on the system and verify that the LED strip is working correctly.

6. Fix the LED strip: use the double-sided tape on the strip or special supports to fix it in the desired position. By following these steps, you will be able to correctly install and connect your LED strip to obtain the desired lighting effect.

In conclusion, choosing the right LED strip can make a big difference in the quality of lighting in your space. Carefully evaluate your needs, the type of lighting you want and the most suitable control system. Whether you want to create a cozy atmosphere, add a touch of color or take advantage of advanced effects, there is a perfect LED strip for you!

Choose your LED strip on our Diffusione Luce website!

Written by Alice Pruccoli