Cables

Types of LED Cables and Their Applications

There isn’t a single cable that works for every LED installation. The wire you choose must be compatible with the LED tape you're using in terms of dimensions, voltage, and the number of conductors required to carry power and control signals to the LEDs.

At Marc LED, you can find cables suitable for:

1. Single-colour LED strip lights (2-wire cables)
2. CCT adjustable LED strip lights (3-wire cables)
3. RGB LED strip lights (4-wire cables)
4. RGBW LED strip lights (5-wire cables)
5. RGB+CCT strip lights (6-wire cables)

As a general rule, the number of wires in an LED cable should correspond to the number of colours on the LED strip, with one additional wire for voltage.

In addition to the LED strip type, consider whether your project requires waterproof solutions. Extra protection against moisture is essential to prevent water damage and extend the life of lighting installations in outdoor settings and bathrooms.

Why Choosing the Right LED Cables Matters

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when installing LED strip lights is underestimating the importance of proper wiring. Using poor-quality wires can cause dimming, flickering, and overheating, all of which negatively affect the performance and lifespan of your lighting system.

Another common issue is voltage drop. This occurs when wires are undersized or too long to carry the necessary power along the entire length of the strip, resulting in uneven brightness. Choosing the right wire size not only helps maintain the correct voltage but also makes installation easier by reducing the need for extra connectors and soldering.

Connecting your LED strip lights to the power source with the correct type of cable keeps the installation safe and allows it to function properly. This is particularly important in the case of more complex systems, for example, RGB+CCT LED strips, where proper wiring is crucial to take full advantage of their colour change and adjustment options.

Why Choose LED Cables From Marc LED?

We understand that both price and quality matter when it comes to electrical supplies. That’s why we offer the best-quality LED cables at competitive prices, helping you transform your home with reliable and energy-efficient lighting while staying within your budget.

Our cables are sold by the metre. This way, you can order exactly what you need, without having to pay for material you won’t use and dealing with leftovers. Please note that wires cut to bespoke lengths cannot be returned, so double-check that you’ve added the right type to the cart before confirming your order.

At Marc LED, you’ll find everything you need to create safe, durable and visually striking LED installations. Our offer includes a range of LED strip lights in different widths and lengths, as well as power supplies, profiles, connectors, and cables designed to suit specific types of LED lights.

If you’re unsure about the type or quantity of wire you require, please contact us. Our team will be happy to answer your questions and recommend suitable solutions for your project.

FAQ

What Cable Should I Use for LED Lights?

The cable you choose must be suitable for your LED strip. For instance, you can use a 2-core cable for a single-colour strip, while RGB and RGBW LED strips require 4-core and 5-core cables, respectively, to accommodate extra colours. Always match the wire size to its length to maintain voltage stability and distribute power evenly along the entire installation.

Do LED Lights Need Special Wiring?

LED strips have specific voltage and current requirements, so it’s important to use wires that are compatible with them. Always check the product specifications provided by the manufacturer, as using the wrong type can result in poor performance or even damage your installation.

Can I Use a 1.5 mm Cable for LED Lights?

Yes, a 1.5 mm cable can be used for LED lighting in both homes and commercial spaces. Its larger size helps reduce voltage drop, making it ideal for longer runs, multiple strips, or larger installations. For shorter strips, 0.75 mm or 1 mm cables are usually sufficient.

What Are the 4 Wires on LED lights?

Four wires are used in RGB strips. They include one common anode/cathode wire and three wires corresponding to primary colours: red (R), green (G), and blue (B). Each channel controls the intensity of its colour, allowing the strip to produce millions of colour combinations.

Can I Connect LED Wires Without Soldering?

Yes, you can use connectors instead of soldering for a quick and easy installation. They’re a great choice for beginners and DIYers who may not have the tools or experience needed for soldering.