Dimmable Vs Non-Dimmable LED Neon Flex: What You Need To Know

Are you looking for the most appropriate LED neon flex for your home or project? The dimmable and non-dimmable LED neon flexes can be very confusing to determine which one would be a better choice.

In this article, as an LED industry expert, I will suggest the pros and cons of both, then compare every detail of dimmable and non-dimmable LED neon flex so you can make a knowledgeable decision.

What Is Dimmable LED Neon Flex?

Dimmable LED neon flex is a special type of neon flex that has an adjustable lighting feature. Customer can dim or decrease the light intensity as per their application. The configuration of a dimmable LED neo flex includes LED strip, diffused silicon or PVC jacket, flexible circuitry, and the most importantly compatible dimmer. 

In low voltage(12V or 24V) LED flex, the PWM(Pulse Width Modification) dimmer is mostly used. In AC-powered neon flex, TRIAC(Triode for Alternating Current)dimming is more compatible and also most popularly used in residential and commercial areas. 

The TRIAC dimmer works by cutting off or shortening the sine wave of AC current, which reduces the intensity of energy. As a result, the dimming of light occurs. The TRIAC dimmer only works if the LED flex is a TRIAC-compatible driver. 

What Is Non-Dimmable LED Neon Flex?

Non-dimmable LED neon flex is a type of neon flex where the brightness level cannot be adjusted; it is fixed at a specific intensity. The components of nondimmable LED neon flex include LED strip, silicone diffuser or PVC jacket (This allows for the diffused neon outlook), circuits, powered driver. 

There is no dimmer inside the non-dimmable LED neon flex. It is not compatible with the outer dimmer switch either. So the customer cannot modify the light here. Non-dimmable is better for commercial or business areas, where constant light is required. 

Key Difference Between Dimmable And Non-Dimmable LED Neon Flex

Key Feature	Dimmable LED Neon Flex	Non-Dimmable LED Neon Flex
Controlling Ambience	available	Fixed
Customization	Yes	No
Power Consumption	Lower	Higher
Cost	Higher	Lower
Maintenance	Needs moderate maintenance	Low maintenance as no dimmer is attached
Application	Residential area, restaurants, and hotel lobby	Architectural applications, signs and lettering, retail stores

Application of Dimmable and Non-Dimmable LED Neon Flex

Dimmable LED neon flex	Non-dimmable LED neon flex
Living room, bedroom Smart home assistance  Theatre, gallery Shopping mall Restaurants and bars  Mostly indoor applications Barber shop	Signage and lettering Advertisement Retail store Display box in the shopping mall  Swimming pool Vehicle lighting  Staircase, hallway, corridor

Pros And Cons Of Dimmable And Non-Dimmable LED Neon Flex 

Pros and cons of dimmable LED neon flex

Pros	Cons
Light adjustment available Controlled ambience  Flexible application Energy efficient  Comfortable for the eyes	Higher cost than non-dimmable neon LED flex Complex installation

Pros and cons of non-dimmable LED neon flex

Pros	Cons
Consistent bright output (best for signage) Easy maintenance  Easy installation Lower cost	Less energy efficient Cannot control the ambience

Dimmable Vs Non-Dimmable LED Neon Flex- Which One To Choose and Why?

Functionality 

The functionality of dimmable LED neon flex is much more than that of non-dimmable ones. The customer can adjust the lighting intensity, control the brightness, and thus set the mood for that location. It is highly useful for a smart home system, where ambient control is necessary. 

The color can also be changed in some expensive dimmable LED flex. As a result, warm tone or cool tone light can create a specific ambience as per the user’s requirement. In the dining table, lawn, and patio, warm, moody light is preferred. So, dimmable neon flex is highly functional in that case. 

There are multiple control options available in dimmable neon flex. The user can change the function with a remote control, wifi, or even Bluetooth. Some neon flex has manual dimmer knob setting. This is useful for users who are not tech-savvy. 

On the other hand, non-dimmable LED neon flex is very simple and easy to use. Although the functionality is lower here, people can easily turn on or off the light, without the complexities of changing the light. 

Custom Brightness

The brightness is customizable in dimmable LED neon flex. The user can either set the light to a brighter volume for focus work and studying. Also, dim the light for a cozy and relaxing time. Too much brightness can strain the eye and seem harsh when people are resting. It also creates a stressful environment, where getting sleep or napping seems difficult or interrupted. 

In contrast, the non-dimmable LED  neon flex stays on one brightness level, which has some of its own perks, like in outdoor applications, swimming pool areas, or garden areas, and retail stores where constant light is a good thing.

However, non-dimmable neon flex isn’t super enjoyable when the user wants a cozy and comfortable environment. It also consumes much more energy as the brightness is always on high power. 

Installation Requirement

The dimmable LED neon flex requires a matching or compatible power driver or dimmer (PWM, TRIAC) to function properly. The installation procedure must be handled by an expert so that the  LED flex adjusts well with the dimmer. If the dimmer isn’t compatible, there will be issues like flickering or the light may not respond to the dimmer. 

In contrast, non-dimmable LED doesn’t need any dimmer or complex installation system. The procedure is simple. The whole system has a few components, which don’t require a professional to set up.

Considering Application 

In residential applications, like bedrooms, study rooms, accent lights, hallways, or corridors, dimmable LED neon flex works better. User can control the ambience as per their liking. By dimming the brightness, they can create a cozy entertainment room and increase, activate, focus, and create a working environment.

Also, theatrical applications, like stage building and lighting during scene change, are more adapted to dimmable neon flex. This can improve the participant experience by dimming the opening and closing credits of any movie or show with music.

In the case of non-dimmable LED neon flex, it is more appropriate for exterior usage, like stairways, hallways, and retail stores. It can improve the shopping experience by creating a stunning, bright look in jewelry stores and other high-end fashion stores. Also, signs and lettering of stores and architecture are suitable for non-dimmable LED neon flex.

Cost Analysis

The cost analysis can be done based on these segments: initial purchase cost, installation cost, maintenance cost, and energy cost.

• Initial purchase cost: As dimmable LED neon Flex has more parts, like a compatible dimmer, dimmer control switch, and dimmer driver, this one costs more than a non-dimmable one.
• Installation cost: The dimmer driver must be matched with dimmable neon flex. If the dimmer isn’t compatible with the neon flex, this will result in flickering, buzzing sounds, and a not-so-smooth dimming experience. So the installation must be done with the help of a professional. 

On the other hand, the non-dimmable LED neon flex contains fewer parts and fewer complexities, which makes it DIY friendly. So the customer can save on the installation cost here.

• Maintenance cost: The extra electronic parts used in dimmable LED neon flex need checking frequently. If there is a lack of smooth dimming, then any part might be faulty. This replacement has a cost.

However, in the case of non-dimmable neon flex, it doesn’t require much maintenance, as it is always working at full brightness. There is no dimmer or compatible switch. This makes it less costly.

• Energy cost: The more components used in a dimmable light, the more part has different lifespans. If the neon flex is used most of the time in lower to moderate brightness, it will consume less energy. So the electric bill will be much lower. 

Contrarily, non-dimmable LED neon flex consumes much higher energy as it always works in full brightness mode.

Maintenance Tips For Dimmable And Non Dimmable LED Neon Flex 

For dimmable LED neon flex-

• The dimmer must be compatible with the neon flex; otherwise, the lifespan will be reduced significantly. 
• Frequently check the dimming capacity; if there is any gap in the dimming of light, certain parts may be faulty and need to be replaced.
• Don’t use dimmable neon flex at full brightness capacity 24/7; it will reduce its lifespan. 
• Look out for flickering in the neon flex; it may indicate loose wiring or an incompatible dimmer.

For non-dimmable LED neon flex-

• Avoid overheating and using the light for a prolonged time, as it may damage the parts
• If there is any dim section or slightly off-color area showing, their connection might be loose
• Provide a stable electric connection to get the most out of your product.

For both-

• Clean the surface with cotton, dry cloth
• Check the electrical connection frequently
• If the product doesn’t specifically declare to be used for the exterior, then avoid any moisture near the light

In Closing 

To sum up, the dimmable and non-dimmable LED neon flex are standard lights that create a refreshing and modern look. The dimmable neon flex is better suited for indoor and household applications, where ambience control is desired. And the non-dimmable is best for areas where constant bright light is required. 

So,  contact Mylikeled for the best quality LED neon flex. 

FAQs

Do Dimmable LED Lights Last Longer Than Non-Dimmable Ones?

Yes, dimmable light has a longer lifespan than non-dimmable light because it is less used and the inner components are less damaged over time.

What Happens If You Put a Non-Dimmable LED In A Dimmer?

If you put a non-dimmable LED in a dimmer, it will most likely show flickering or flashing lights and may create a buzzing noise. In extreme cases, the light may overheat and cause an accident, as the LED isn’t designed to handle the interruption of the signal.

Why is some LED Strip not Dimmable?

Some LED strips are non-dimmable because they lack any compatibility with dimmers, interrupted power cuts (AC wave shortage), they don’t have dimming control circuits built inside them.