Do you want to know if it’s possible to power LED strip lights with a USB port? In this article, we will explore the answer to that question.
We will also discuss some of the benefits of using USB-powered LED strips and how they can be used in a variety of applications. So, read on to learn more about this exciting technology.
So, can LED strip lights be powered by USB? LED strip lights with a USB connector can be powered by any standard USB port. This is usually 5 volts instead of the usual 12 volts that most LED strips require. The lower voltage means that the USB strip will use less power, making it ideal for a variety of applications.
Keep reading as I throw more light on the using USB-powered LED strip lights.
Benefits Of USB-Powered LED Strip Lights
Let’s begin this article by looking at the benefits of using USB-powered LED strip lights so you can decide if this is the right solution for your needs.
1. They Use Less Power
As mentioned above, one of the main benefits of using USB-powered LED strip lights is that they use less power. This means that you can save money on your energy bill each month.
In addition, if you are using a laptop or other device that is powered by a battery, using USB-powered LED strip lights will help to extend the battery life.
USB-powered LED strip lights are also a great choice if you are looking for a more eco-friendly option.
They generate less heat than traditional incandescent bulbs, and they do not contain any toxic chemicals.
So, if you are looking for a way to save money and help the environment, using USB-powered LED strip lights is a great choice.
2. They Can Be Used In A Variety Of Applications
Another great benefit of using USB-powered LED strip lights is that they can be used in a variety of applications.
For example, you can use them to light up a dark closet or under the kitchen cabinets. You can also use them to decorate your home for a party or holiday.
In addition, if you are looking for a way to add some extra light to your computer monitor, using USB-powered LED strip lights is a great choice. They are also perfect for lighting up a workspace or reading area.
3. Convenience Of Use
While most LED strip lights will require a plug and a power source, USB-powered LED strip lights can be plugged into any USB port.
USB-powered LED strip lights do not require any extra cords or plugs, making them much more convenient to use.
This means that you can use them with a laptop, desktop computer, or even a power bank. Not only that, but you can also take them with you when you travel.
That is why USB-powered LED strip lights are popular, especially with laptop users.
So, if you are looking for a more convenient way to use LED strip lights, USB-powered LED strip lights are the way to go.
4. They Are Easy To Install
Another great benefit of using USB-powered LED strip lights is that they are easy to install. In most cases, all you need to do is peel off the adhesive backing and stick the strip light in place.
You can then plug the USB end into any available USB port. Some models even come with a remote so you can turn the lights on and off without getting up.
So, if you are looking for an easy way to add some extra light to your home, office, or workspace, using USB-powered LED strip lights is a great choice.
5. They Are Safe To Use
If you’re someone who’s always freaked out about electrical safety, then USB-powered LED strip lights are a great choice for you.
Since they run on low voltage, they pose no risk of electrocution or fire. In addition, most models come with built-in short circuits and overcurrent protection.
So, if you are looking for a safe and reliable way to add some extra light to your home, office, or workspace, using USB-powered LED strip lights is a great choice.
Downsides Of USB-Powered LED Strip Lights
Now that we’ve looked at the benefits of using USB-powered LED strip lights let’s take a look at some of the downsides.
1. USB-Powered LED Strip Lights May Not Be As Bright
One of the main downsides of using USB-powered LED strip lights is that they are not as bright as other types of LED strip lights.
The lower voltage means that the light output will be less bright than other types of LED lights.
So, if you are looking for a way to add some extra light to a dark room or workspace, using USB-powered LED strip lights may not be the best choice.
Instead, you may want to consider using another type of LED light.
Other types of LED lights that are more powerful include AC-powered LED lights and DC-powered LED lights.
AC-powered LED lights are the brightest type of LED light available. They are also the most expensive.
DC-powered LED lights are not as bright as AC-powered LED lights, but they are more affordable.
2. The Light Output May Not Be As Consistent
Another downside of using USB-powered LED strip lights is that the light output may not be as consistent.
Since the voltage is lower, the light output will fluctuate more than it would with other types of LED lights.
This is usually evident when the USB port is shared with other devices. For example, if you are using a USB-powered LED strip light with a laptop that is also charging a phone, the light output may fluctuate.
3. They Are Not As Widely Available
Another downside of using USB-powered LED strip lights is that they are not as widely available as other types of LED strip lights.
So, if you are looking for a specific type or style of USB-powered LED strip light, you may have to search around a bit to find it.
4. They May Not Be Compatible with All USB Ports
All USB ports are supposed to be the same, but in reality, they are not.
So, if you are using a USB-powered LED strip light with a tv, laptop, or desktop computer, it is important to make sure that the USB port is compatible.
Some laptops and computers have USB ports that do not put out enough power to run LED strip lights.
So, if you are having trouble getting your USB-powered LED strip light to work, make sure to check the compatibility of the USB port.
Applications For USB-Powered LED Strip Lights
Now that we’ve looked at some of the benefits and downsides of using USB-powered LED strip lights let’s take a look at some of the applications for them.
Adding Extra Light To A Dark Corner
One of the best applications for USB-powered LED strip lights is adding extra light to a dark corner.
Since they are low voltage and easy to install, they are a great way to add some extra light to a dark room or workspace.
A good example is adding a strip of USB-powered LED lights under a desk to add some extra light to a dark workspace.
Decorating For A Party
Another great application for USB-powered LED strip lights is decorating for a party.
Since they are low voltage and easy to install, they are a great way to add some extra light to a party space.
A good example is adding a strip of USB-powered LED lights to the edge of a table to create a border of light.
Creating Ambiance in a Room
LED strip lights are popular for a reason: they provide an easy way to add ambiance and style to any room.
And one of the best things about them is that they can be powered by USB. That means you can use your existing USB ports to power your LED strips without having to worry about finding a separate power source.
Adding Extra Light to a TV, Laptop, or Computer Screen
Another application for USB-powered LED strip lights is adding extra light to a TV, laptop, or computer screen.
Imagine watching a movie on your laptop in bed with a strip of USB-powered LED lights providing some extra light effects on what is going on your screens.
Or, if you work in a dark office, you could use a USB-powered LED strip light to add some extra light to your computer screen.
The possibilities are endless!
Creating a Makeshift Light Show
Last but not least, you can use USB-powered LED strip lights to create a makeshift light show.
Since they are portable and easy to install, you can use them to create a light show anywhere you go.
A good example is attaching a strip of USB-powered LED lights to the bottom of a drone and flying it around at night. The result would be a spectacular light show that everyone would enjoy.
Now that you know a little bit more about USB-powered LED strip lights, it’s time to get out there and try them for yourself! Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
How to Install USB-Powered LED Strip Lights
Let’s take a look at how to install USB-powered LED strip lights. You’ll need a few things before you get started:
- A clean, flat surface to work on
- A sharp knife or scissors
- A measuring tape or ruler
- LED strip lights
- A USB power source (like a laptop or power bank)
Now that you have everything you need let’s get started!
Step One:
- First, measure the area where you want to install your LED strip lights. Then, use your knife or scissors to cut the strip light to size.
- Make sure that you leave enough excess wire at either end so that you can easily connect it to your power source.
Step Two:
- Next, peel off the adhesive backing on the strip light and attach it to your chosen surface.
- Start at one end and work your way to the other, making sure that the strip light is firmly attached.
Step Three:
- Now, it’s time to connect your LED strip light to a power source.
- Simply plug the USB end of the strip light into any USB port, and you’re good to go!
- And that’s it! You’ve now successfully installed your own USB-powered LED strip lights. Enjoy!
As you can see, installing USB-powered LED strip lights is easy and only takes a few minutes.
Safety Precautions When Using USB-Powered LED Strip Lights
Before I finally wrap things up, I want to quickly go over a few safety precautions that you should keep in mind when using these types of lights.
- First, always make sure that the USB port you’re using can provide enough power for your LED strip lights.
- If you’re not sure, err on the side of caution and use a higher-powered source like a laptop or desktop computer.
- Second, never cut your LED strip lights without first measuring and testing the new length.
- Cutting them too short could result in a loss of power and an overall dimmer light.
- And lastly, always make sure that your LED strip lights are properly secured before leaving them unattended.
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it. That is everything you need to know about LED strip lights being powered by USB.
I hope that this article has been informative and has helped you to understand this technology better. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me. Thank you for reading!
P.S. If you enjoyed this article, please feel free to share it with your friends or family. Thank you!
If you want to learn more about LED strip lights and other types of lighting, be sure to check out the other contents on this website.