There are various plug and connection options for LED lighting operating at 12V or 24V DC (direct current) . This type of lighting is often used for LED strips, LED spotlights, car and caravan lighting, and garden lighting .
1. Commonly used plugs for 12V/24V LED lighting
🔌 DC plug (5.5mm x 2.1mm or 5.5mm x 2.5mm)
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Features :
✅ Cylindrical plug with internal and external contact.
✅ Standard for LED strips, LED adapters and power supplies .
✅ Usually the inside (+) is positive and the outside (-) is negative . -
Applications :
✔ LED strips and LED drivers .
✔ LED adapters for 12V/24V applications .
✔ Camera and security systems .
🔌 JST connectors
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Features :
✅ Small, compact plugs, often with click connection.
✅ Usually 2-pin (for 12V/24V power supply) or 3-/4-pin (for RGB LED strips). -
Applications :
✔ LED strips and small LED modules .
✔ Battery-powered LED systems .
✔ Electronics and printed circuit boards with LED lighting .
🔌 Molex connectors
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Features :
✅ Usually 4-pin for power and signal transmission.
✅ Used for 12V and 24V LED strips in industrial applications . -
Applications :
✔ PC LED lighting and modding .
✔ Automotive LED applications .
✔ LED modules with stable power requirements .
🔌 Screw connectors / terminal blocks
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Features :
✅ Manual connection terminals, suitable for different wire thicknesses.
✅ Solder-free and reusable connections. -
Applications :
✔ Loose LED strips without connector .
✔ DIY LED projects with 12V/24V drivers .
✔ Garden lighting and car lighting .
2. Direct wire connections for 12V/24V LED lighting
Some LED lighting is connected without a plug, directly via wiring.
⚡ WAGO clamps
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Features :
✅ Safe alternative to crown stones.
✅ Suitable for solid and flexible wires (quick to assemble). -
Applications :
✔ LED strips and separate LED modules .
✔ Garden lighting on 12V / 24V .
✔ Caravan and camper lighting .
⚡ Waterproof IP68 connectors
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Features :
✅ Protects against moisture and dust (suitable for outdoor use).
✅ Often used with 12V/24V LED garden systems . -
Applications :
✔ LED garden lighting and pond lighting .
✔ Outdoor LED strips and facade lighting .
✔ Caravan and camper lighting .
⚡ LED strip connectors (snap-on or solderless)
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Features :
✅ Easily connect LED strips together without soldering.
✅ Available for single color, RGB and RGBW LED strips. -
Applications :
✔ LED strips with 12V/24V adapters .
✔ Interior and cabinet lighting .
✔ Smart LED strips and smart home lighting .
3. Which low-voltage connection do you choose for your LED lighting?
| Application | Recommended connection |
|---|---|
| LED strips with adapter | DC plug (5.5mm x 2.1mm) |
| DIY LED projects | JST connectors or terminal blocks |
| LED lighting in PCs | Molex connector |
| LED garden lighting | Waterproof IP68 connectors |
| LED lighting in cars or campers | WAGO terminal blocks or screw connectors |