Choosing Between LED Strip Lights Vs Rope Lights: Which One Fits Where

There's no doubt that lighting can truly affect the aesthetics of your space and turn it from something basic to truly extraordinary. Whether you are adding just a decorative element or practical lighting, both rope lights and LED strip lights offer plenty of benefits. While one is lightweight and easy to bend, the other offers unmatched durability, superior lighting, and the ability to withstand the weather outside. But which one is the right option? Here are a few important points to remember when deciding between LED strip lights vs rope lights. 

Torn between rope lights vs LED strip lights? Here's what you need to know; Photo Credit: Pexels

5 Differences In LED Strip Lights Vs Rope Lights

1. Design And Flexibility

LED strip lights are more flexible and delicate than rope lights. Due to their thin PCB construction, they are perfect to wrap around plants, railings, or mirrors without causing damage. Their overall look adds an aesthetic touch to any basic setup. 

On the other hand, rope lights are encircled in a PVC tube. Thus, they are more rigid but durable than LED strip lights. Although you may not get much creative freedom with rope lights, they offer clean lines and structured designs. 

2. Light Output

Rope lights emit uniform and diffused light, making them great for creating an ambient setup. Although they are not known for high brightness, these lights are excellent for decorative purposes. You can add them below cabinets or under shelves for functional lighting. 

LED strip lights, on the contrary, are known for high brightness levels. Their lighting is softer, brighter, and great for a decorative touch. This is why LED strip lights are excellent as task lighting and ambient lighting options.

LED strip lights give a twinkle or sparkle effect whereas rope lights are known for a uniform and diffused light setup; Photo Credit: Pexels

3. Durability

As mentioned earlier, rope lights are encased in a thick plastic shell. This makes them resistant to moisture, dust, and general wear and tear. Moreover, rope lights are an ideal option for long-term use, even in outdoor settings. In contrast, LED strip lights can be more delicate than rope lights. Unless labeled weatherproof, these lights may not be able to withstand rough weather conditions. 

Also Read: Brighten Your Home With Smart Lighting And Get Up To 80% Off

4. Ease Of Installation

Strip lights are lightweight and easy to drape. You can hang them using hooks, stick to a surface with tape, or just wrap around decorative items for soft lighting. They don't require professional assistance and are ideal for temporary decorations, like parties and festivals. Moreover, they typically feature an adhesive backing that you can peel and stick for installation.

But if you are looking for more sturdy arrangements, rope lights are a better option. Because of their thick casing and heavy weight, these lights need durable clips, screws, or ties to stay in their place. If you want to stick them at a certain height, you may end up needing professional assistance as well. 

LED strip lights are easy to install, whereas rope lights may need professional assistance; Photo Credit: Pexels

5. Power Consumption And Efficiency

Both strip lights and rope lights are energy-efficient options. However, rope lights can consume slightly more power than strip lights because they light up in a continuous stream. On the other hand, strip lights may use less electricity. Nonetheless, the difference in power efficiency between these two options may turn out to be minimal if you use high-quality variants. 

6. Cost 

LED strip lights are generally much more affordable than rope lights. They are easily available and can be used for short-term, temporary projects. Rope lights can be more expensive, but they also last longer in demanding conditions. Plus, if you get professionals to hang them up, it will turn out to be an added expenditure. 

Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between rope lights and LED strip lights depends on your purpose and preferences. If you are decorating your indoors for a festive and welcoming vibe, strip lights can provide a soft glow and flexible design options. They are perfect to wrap around objects, fill in empty glass bottles, or just lay on the table for an aesthetic touch. However, if your aim is for a functional yet decorative look, rope lights are a better option. They are weather-resistant, offer durability, value to monay, and uniform brightness. Moreover, they are also helpful for long-term, outdoor use. 

These were 6 useful differences in LED strip lights vs rope lights. While rope lights offer structure, durability, and weather resistance, LED strip lights offer great creative flexibility and soft lighting. Both have their unique advantages. Thus, the key is to know what kind of look and use you are going for. With so many options available, you can buy LED strip lights and rope lights online and decorate your house the smart way.

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Frequently Asked Questions On LED Strip Lights Vs Rope Lights (FAQs)

1. Which is better, strip light or rope light?

Both LED strip lights and rope lights are amazing options, but they serve different purposes. LED strip lights are ideal for decorating indoors as they are fragile yet flexible. Rope lights are more durable and can withstand tough weather outdoors. 

2. What is the difference between rope lights and LED strip lights?

Rope lights are round, enclosed in PVC, and ideal for outdoor decoration. LED string lights are lightweight, budget-friendly, and offer easier installation. But rope lights offer better lighting than LED strip lights.

3. What are the advantages of LED strip lights?

Some advantages of the LED strip lights include that they are easy to install, budget-friendly, and can be wrapped around objects for easy decoration. 

4. Do LED light strips waste a lot of electricity?

LED strip lights are generally energy-efficient and do not consume much power. 

5. Can I leave my LED strip lights on overnight?

Yes, it is generally safe to leave LED strip lights running overnight, given that they are of high quality and do not damage easily. Just ensure that they are energy-efficient and produce minimal heat. 

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