At first glance, and at first google search, it’s hard to see the difference between Light Tape© and Tape Light. Although the words are simply reversed, they refer to two completely different products. Many of our customers have mistakenly ordered Tape Light, thinking it was our product. We’re here to make that distinction clear. Below, we compare both products in detail.
What is Light Tape©?
Light Tape is a ultra-thin customizable lighting solution made using electroluminescent technology which is completely different tech than LED. It works via phosphors; special materials that can light up when they get energy. When we use AC electricity (that’s the kind of electricity that changes direction really fast), it gives energy to the phosphor. That energy makes tiny parts inside the phosphor move. After they get excited, they calm down again—and when they do, they let out a tiny bit of light. This causes the electroluminescent glow. You can check out or blog on Light Tape Vs LEDs to learn more.
Light Tapes key characteristics are:
- Ultra-thin and flexible
- Uniform, glare-free illumination (surface emission)
- Durability and longevity
Its most common applications:
- Architectural lighting (cove, accent)
- Safety and egress lighting
- Brand experiences and signage
- Backlighting (e.g., displays)
- XR, VR and AR environments (mixed & virtual reality environments)
Light Tape® is manufactured in the United States under strict quality control standards. Our proprietary manufacturing methods create an electroluminescent light source unlike any other in the world.
What is Tape Light (LED Strip Lighting)?
Tape Light, also widely known as LED strip lighting, is essentially a flexible circuit board with numerous tiny, surface-mounted LEDs. These versatile strips illuminate when a direct current (DC) is applied, causing each individual LED to emit light.
Key characteristics:
- Varying brightness and color options (RGB, tunable white)
- Cuttable and connectable for custom lengths
- Dotting effect (can be mitigated with diffusers)
Common applications:
- Under-cabinet lighting
- Accent lighting (shelves, coves)
- Decorative lighting (TV backlighting, mood lighting)
- Task lighting
Direct Comparison: Light Tape vs. Tape Light
- Technology (EL vs. LED) – EL and LED are two completely different technologies. EL or electroluminescent lighting uses phosphors to emit light greetings and even glow. LEDs use a circuit board that connects to individual lights on a circus board.
- Light Quality (Uniformity, Glare) – Light Tape excels in providing a remarkably uniform, glare-free illumination, as its entire surface emits a soft, continuous glow, making it ideal for applications requiring subtle and consistent lighting without harsh spots. In contrast, Tape Light (LED strip lighting), while capable of high brightness, can exhibit a ‘dotting’ effect from individual LEDs and may produce glare if not properly diffused.
- Brightness/Lumen Output – Light Tape, while providing a unique uniform glow, typically offers a lower lumen output, making it more suitable for accent lighting, subtle backlighting, or safety applications where a softer, diffused light is desired rather than intense brightness. Conversely, Tape Light (LED strip lighting) is designed for significantly higher lumen output, capable of producing bright, powerful illumination that makes it ideal for task lighting or general room illumination.
- Flexibility and Form Factor – In terms of flexibility and form factor, Light Tape and Tape Light present notable differences. Light Tape, due to its electroluminescent nature, is exceptionally thin and highly flexible, capable of bending and conforming to various intricate shapes and surfaces with ease. While Tape Light (LED strip lighting) is also flexible and can be bent to a degree, it is generally thicker and less pliable than Light Tape, making it more suitable for linear applications or gentle curves rather than extreme bends or complex contours.
- Efficiency – Both Light Tape and Tape Light are energy-conscious choices, but they excel in different aspects. Light Tape offers good energy efficiency, particularly given its uniform light output and minimal heat generation, making it suitable for applications where power consumption and heat generation is a concern. However, Tape Light (LED strip lighting) generally operates at a much higher temp and uses more electricity. When our customers have switched from LEDs to Light Tape it’s not uncommon to see XXX% reduction in energy use.
- Installation and Customization – EL and LED’s can be easily installed, however depending on where you plan to install it, it may require more time and experience. You could install either lighting solution yourself at home for whatever application you see fit, however if you are going to install it in a theater, professional installation is recommended.
- Cost Considerations – competitive with good LEDs, cheaper than high end commercial
- Durability and Lifespan – When it comes to longevity and resilience, both Light Tape and Tape Light offer commendable performance, though with distinct characteristics. Light Tape, being an electroluminescent product, is renowned for its exceptional durability and resistance to harsh conditions, often boasting a lifespan of over 40,000 hours. In contrast, Tape Light, or LED strip lighting, offers a similar lifespan, often ranging from 25,000 to 50,000 hours, and can achieve good durability through various IP ratings for environmental protection.
- Manufacturing – Light Tape products are assembled in Colombia’s FreeZone, but all repair parts are made in the USA for fast, reliable shipping and minimal downtime. Tape Light and other LEDs are most assembled in China or other Asian countries which can create issues with quality and repair parts.
Comparison Table
For those who want more specific details when comparing the two, we created a table comparing most of the key details about our product and Tape Light. You can see many of these technical details on our About Light Tape page as well.
| Feature | Light Tape (Electroluminescent) | Tape Light (LED Strip) |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Electroluminescent (EL) phosphor coating | Surface-mounted LED diodes |
| Light Source | Entire surface emits light uniformly | Individual LED points create light |
| Thickness | Ultra-thin (0.010″ – 0.020″ / 0.254-0.305mm), thinner than a credit card | Thicker (typically 2-3mm) |
| Width Options | Various widths available, up to a meter wide. | Standard widths (5mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm) |
| Light Quality | Uniform, continuous glow | Point sources (can appear dotted) |
| Glare | Glare-free, without the need for diffusion. | Can produce glare without diffusers |
| Brightness | Lower output (22-120 foot lamberts) | Higher output (100-1000+ lumens/ft) |
| Color Options | Wide range, typically fewer than LEDs | Wide range (RGB, tunable white, single colors) |
| Power Type | AC (requires inverter) | DC (requires driver/power supply) |
| Power Consumption | Generally lower power | Variable (1-15W per foot) |
| Voltage | Typically 110V AC (after inverter) | 12V or 24V DC |
| Flexibility | Extremely flexible | Flexible but less than EL tape |
| Cutting | Can be cut to custom lengths | Cuttable at designated points (every 2-6″) |
| Installation | Adhesive backing, simple connection, easy mounting options available for various applications | Simple connection, Adhesive backing, soldering/connectors |
| Dimming | Dimming options available | Excellent dimming capabilities give additional brightness |
| Heat Operation | Operates in extreme temperatures | Sensitive to high heat (need modification to operate), excellent operation in extreme cold. |
| Lifespan | 40,000 hours | 25,000-50,000+ hours |
| Durability | Heavy load capable, vibration and impact resistant. Able to withstand high physical impact and still illuminate. | Good durability, IP ratings available |
| Heat Generation | Minimal heat, never truly getting hot. | Low to moderate heat |
| Cost | Higher initial cost | Lower initial cost |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance | Low maintenance |
| Control Options | Dimming | RGB, dimming |
| Weatherproofing | Naturally weather-resistant | Requires IP-rated versions |
| Latency | Zero latency | Minimal latency |
| Visual Effect | Smooth, continuous line of light, colors maintained even when light is turned off. | Bright, customizable lighting effects, loses color when turned off. |
| Installation Length | 45 meters or more with a single connection. Cuts your installation time by 75%. DIY-friendly | DIY-friendly |
| Availability | Specialized suppliers | Widely available |
| Customization | Many color/brightness options | Highly customizable |
| Energy Efficiency | Uses 40% less power than traditional LEDs at equal brightness. | Excellent efficiency |
| Manufacturing | US, Columbia | China |
| Smart Integration | Excellent smart features w/ proper system | Excellent smart features w/ proper system |
Choosing the Right Lighting Solution for Your Project
In conclusion, while Light Tape and Tape Light may sound similar, they are fundamentally different technologies with unique strengths and ideal applications. Light Tape’s electroluminescent technology offers an ultra-thin, uniform, and glare-free glow, perfect for architectural, safety, and immersive environments where subtle, elegant lighting is desired. Tape Light (LED strip lighting), on the other hand, provides brighter illumination suited for decorative, task, and accent lighting needs.
Choosing between the two depends largely on your project’s requirements and understanding these differences ensures you select the right lighting solution to enhance your space with confidence. For professional installations, especially in performance or commercial venues, it’s best to talk with an expert to optimize application and performance is highly recommended.
