RGBWW lighting has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in household and commercial settings. While many people are familiar with RGB strip lights that are used to add colorful accents to rooms or displays, the term “RGBWW” may not be as widely recognized.
It’s important to note that RGBWW refers to strip lighting and other types of lighting fixtures like bulbs and downlights. So, what is RGBWW and how does it differ from similar products? Let’s delve into this topic further.
What is RGBWW?
RGBWW is a combination of RGB, White, and Warm White colors. One W represents White and the other Warm White. This integration of these colors results in an extensive spectrum of shades, hues, and warmth levels achievable for illumination purposes.
What is RGB? RGB specifically denotes red, green, and blue colors used together to create up to 16 million (approx) different shades by blending varying intensities of each hue.
RGBW expands on this concept with an additional fourth color element – White which is the W in RGBW means.
The differences between RGB, RGBW, and RGBWW are as follows:
- RGB comprises a 3-in-1 chip involving red, green, and blue diodes. RGBW contains a 4-in-1 chip consisting of an RGB and white diode. RGBWW has a 5-in-1 chip that contains RGB and two white diodes – White and Warm White.
- By blending the three primary colors, i.e., red, green, and blue; RGB LED strips can produce almost 16 million different hues. Integrating an additional white diode in RGBW provides more prospects for color mixing. On the other hand, the Warm white in RGBWW provides even more versatility in color temperature options.
- The whitish hue created by using only the red-green-blue combination in the RBG setup is not completely pure white. An accurate shade of white light is produced through the use of one extra-diode present in RGBW technology. In contrast, RGBWW technology has one diode for brighter white and another for a warmer, more yellow-toned white.
What is better, RGB, RGBW or RGBWW?
Choosing between RGB, RGBW, or RGBWW lighting is not straightforward because each has its unique benefits and drawbacks depending on its intended use.
RGB LED lights are suitable for decorative purposes as they can create a wide range of 16 million different hues.
In contrast, with the addition of white diodes, RGBW light provides greater flexibility when mixing colors. Consequently, these lights not only produce numerous colors but also emit white light with more purity. This makes them perfect for functional tasks such as general illumination or task lighting besides accentuating decorations.
RGBWW lights serve further versatility by adding yet another warm white diode; thus, capable of producing yellow-toned light besides cool white types. These lights work best wherever proper color temperature is necessary such as living spaces and restaurants.
Ultimately, the decision to use RGB, RGBW, or RGBWW will rest on the particular needs and desires of each user’s lighting requirements. For applications that require a simple and reasonably priced solution for decorating lights, then having RGB lighting may prove to be optimal.
However, if one requires versatility in color mixing, adjustable brightness levels, and temperature options, then RGBW or RGBWW lighting would be a more appropriate choice.
Frequently Asked Questions about RGBWW/RGB Lights
You may still have some questions about RGBWW lights. Check the questions that people usually ask below to get additional information.
Is it OK to leave RGBWW/RGB lights on overnight?
Leaving RGBWW/RGB lights on overnight does not pose any threat as long as they are designed for continuous use and have received safety certification.
It’s important to bear in mind that low-quality or economical LED lights may not have the ability to endure extended, sustained usage.
Therefore, despite being considered safe for usage overnight, it is always a wise practice to save energy and prevent potential risks by turning off electronic devices when they are not in use.
Are RGBWW/RGB lights bad for sleep?
The presence of a blue light component in the RGBWW/RGB color spectrum can have adverse effects on the quality of sleep, particularly if used at night. Melatonin production is impacted by this blue light exposure resulting in delaying the onset of adequate sleep while deepening daytime drowsiness and weakening productivity.
Fortunately, most RGBWW/RGB lights come equipped with features like adaptable color adjustments or even specific sleep modes to minimize effects on sleep; emitting warmer colors at lower intensities that encourage relaxation vital for better quality rest.
Nevertheless, it’s still best practice to avoid using these lights along with electronic devices before bedtime in order to unwind from daily stresses and enable oneself to dive into deeper restorative slumber as part of a healthy routine.
Are RGBWW/RGB lights bad for eyes?
Just like any intense source of light, RGBWW/RGB lights can induce eye fatigue, headaches, and other forms of discomfort. Fortunately, some techniques can aid in reducing these impacts.
First of all, it is essential to refrain from staring directly at the light source for extended durations as this can result in eye fatigue and strain.
Keeping RGBWW/RGB lights at low brightness levels can also help reduce contrast-related discomfort in dark environments. Choosing white, warm white, or less intense RGB colors may also make a difference.
Those with pre-existing medical conditions that trigger seizure reactions from flashing lights should consult their doctor before using these kinds of lights.
Do RGBWW/RGB lights use a lot of electricity?
The electricity used by RGBWW/RGB lights depends on how many are present and their brightness intensity.
In general, LED RGBWW/RGB lights are more energy-efficient as compared to incandescent bulbs. Saving up to 80% of energy while operating for longer times with minimal power usage makes them a sustainable choice.
However, even though these types of lighting consume less electricity overall, leaving them on for extended periods may increase your electricity bill. It is wise to turn them off or pick an automated timer that can adjust accordingly when not in use.
Alternatively, using a smart home system will enable better control over light timings according to user preferences such as schedules or routines without so much worry about wasting unnecessary resources.
