I believe everyone knows how to power LED strip lights. If it is a large project, it must be powered by the power supply. But what if it is a home LED strip? Or how to power LED strip lights when camping or in a car? If we have to consider the location of wiring and power supply, it is too inconvenient, and sometimes the location is limited. So we will think about easy and convenient ways to carry, then can LED strip lights be powered by battery? How to power LED strip lights with battery? What kind of batteries can be used to power LED light strips?
What are the Factors for Batteries to Power LED Strip Lights?
First of all, we need to be clear that not all batteries can power LED strips. We need to choose suitable and compatible batteries. The battery that powers the LED strip lights must meet the following characteristics. More details, pls kind check How to Choose the Perfect Flexible LED Strip Lights?
Voltage requirements
Most low-voltage LED strips on the market are usually 12V or 24V. So when we choose a battery, we must ensure that the battery voltage matches the working voltage of the strip.
For this short-distance LED light strip, I recommend choosing a 12V flexible LED strip, which makes it easier to choose a battery.
In summary, make sure the power supply voltage of the LED strip matches its required voltage, and do not use a power supply with too high or too low voltage. Matching the correct voltage is the best choice.e.
Current requirements
The power of the LED strip determines its current requirements. You need to make sure the battery can provide enough current to drive the entire strip. Generally speaking, the higher the discharge capacity of the battery (usually expressed in mAh or Ah), the more current it can provide.
Capacity and battery life
The battery capacity should be as large as possible, because the battery capacity determines the life of the light strip. The larger the capacity, the longer the light strip will continue to glow.
Connection method
The connection method of the battery should match the interface of the LED light strip. Usually, an adapter or connector is required to ensure that the battery can be safely and reliably connected to the LED strip.
Which Battery are Recommended to Power the LED Strip Lights?
As we talked about before, not all batteries can be used to power LED light strips. We recommend the following battery to power LED strip lights.
Lithium-ion battery (Li-ion)
Lithium-ion batteries are one of the most common choices for powering LED light strips. Because of their high energy density, long life, light weight, and small size, they are ideal for applications that require portability or limited space.
Generally, we choose lithium-ion battery voltage of 3.7V, and some larger battery packs can provide 7.4V, 11.1V or higher voltage.
Lithium polymer battery (LiPo)
LiPo batteries are similar to Li-ion batteries, but use a different electrolyte, making them thinner and more flexible.
They are often used in devices where weight and shape are critical, such as wearables or aircraft models.
Nickel metal hydride battery (NiMH)
NiMH batteries have a higher energy density and are more environmentally friendly than traditional nickel cadmium (NiCd) batteries. The common battery voltage is 1.2V, and multiple batteries can be connected in series to achieve the voltage required for LED light strips.
However, they are all a bit large and heavy. They can indeed provide a stable current output, which is suitable for long-term use of LED light strips. However, we do not recommend it because it is not convenient to carry.
Lead-acid batteries
Lead-acid batteries are large and heavy, but they are very affordable. They are also a good choice for outdoor use. For example, in a garage or large outdoor lighting, they are generally 12V and can be used directly with LED strips of the same voltage.
9V battery
9V batteries are one of the most common alkaline batteries; They are easy to use and do not require connecting additional battery packs.
And it is suitable for short-term, low-power LED strip lighting. So it is very suitable for temporary or emergency lighting.
AA/AAA alkaline batteries
AA and AAA alkaline batteries can also be used for LED strip lighting, especially for low power or short-term use. You can connect multiple 1.5V batteries in series through the battery box to achieve the required voltage.
Comparison of the Advantages and Disadvantages of Battery
| Battery type | Advantages | Disadvantages | Applicable scenarios |
| Lithium-ion battery (Li-ion) | Lightweight, portable, rechargeable, and stable discharge | Lightweight, small size, rechargeable, long service life | Portable LED strip, can be used for simple outdoor lighting. |
| Lithium polymer battery (LiPo) | Thin, flexible, high energy Thin, lighter, and rechargeable | The cost is relatively high and it may be damaged due to over discharge. | Portable applications |
| Nickel metal hydride battery (NiMH) | Environmentally friendly, stable discharge performance | It is large in size and heavy in weight, so its lifespan is relatively short. | Medium power LED strips for home or temporary lighting |
| Lead-acid batteries | Low price Low price, large capacity, suitable for high current output | Large size, heavy weight, short life | Large fixed installation, outdoor long-term lighting |
| 9V battery | Large fixed installation, outdoor long-term lighting | Limited capacity and short battery life | Short-term, low-power LED strips, emergency lighting |
| AA/AAA alkaline batteries | Low price，suitable for low power LED strips | Just for low-power LED strips | Short-term use, low-power LED strip, temporary lighting |
How Long Will the Battery Last for an LED Strip Lights?
To estimate how long the battery of an LED light strip lasts, we first need to know the power of the light strip and the capacity of the battery.
The power is generally marked on the specification sheet of an LED light strip. You can divide the energy provided by the battery by the power of the LED light strip to estimate the approximate working time of the light strip.
Let’s take an example. Suppose you want to use a 12V, 24W LED light strip with a 6000mAh battery. Roughly speaking, this battery can keep the light strip working for about 3-4 hours.
How to Extend the Battery Life of LED Strip Lights?
Charging LED strips with batteries is mainly convenient for portability. So we also need to extend the life of the battery as much as possible.
Install a switch
When using LED strips, if we run out of them or don’t need them, we should turn them off in time. So it’s best to install a switch to save battery life.
Use a dimmer
If you don’t need 100% brightness, we recommend using a dimmer to lower the brightness of your LED strip. Lowering the brightness reduces power consumption, which can extend battery life.
Prefer low-power LED strips
Rather than always choosing the highest-power LED strips, choose LED strips with the brightness and power you need. Because low-power LED strips use less power, they help extend battery life.
Shorten the length of your LED strip
Choose an LED strip that is the right length for your needs. First, know that a shorter strip reduces overall power consumption, thus extending battery life.
Conclusion
For outdoor events or places without electricity, using battery to power LED strip lights can provide a more flexible and convenient lighting experience. By choosing the right battery type, ensuring that the battery voltage matches the LED light strip, and following best practices for extending battery life, you can maximise the efficiency and life of your batteries.