Guide to Halogen vs LED in 12V Landscape Lighting
Efficiency • Lifespan • Heat • Maintenance • Colour • Cost • Sustainability
1. The Evolution of Landscape Lighting
Halogen once led the way. Today, LED delivers greater efficiency, longevity, and control — and defines modern landscape lighting.
- LED has matured to professional-grade brightness and beam quality.
- Lower energy use and longer life reduce total cost of ownership.
2. Key Differences: Halogen vs LED
| Feature | Halogen | LED |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Efficiency | 20–50W per fixture | ~3–6W for similar output |
| Lifespan | 2,000–4,000 hours | 30,000–50,000 hours |
| Heat Output | High; wastes energy as heat | Minimal; cool operation |
| Maintenance | Frequent lamp changes | Low; long-life modules |
| Colour Options | Warm (~2700K) only | 2700K–4000K options |
| Performance Over Time | Dims and shifts colour | Stable output and colour |
| Durability | Fragile filaments | Solid-state; shock resistant |
| Operating Cost | Higher power + replacements | Low energy; minimal upkeep |
3. Why Striker Always Chooses LED
a) Energy Efficiency
- Up to 85% less energy for the same brightness.
- Smaller transformer loads; expand design without oversizing power.
b) Long Lifespan & Reliability
- 30,000–50,000 hours rated life; seasons of worry‑free use.
- Solid-state design: no filaments, fewer failures.
c) Cool Operation
- Protects plant material and fixture components.
- Reduces insects around hot lamps.
d) Precision Optics & Beam Control
- Exact beam angles from narrow accent to wide wash.
- Clean cut-offs and glare management for professional results.
e) Consistent Performance
- Maintains brightness and colour temperature over time.
- Even illumination across the property.
f) Lower Maintenance & Cost
- Fewer site visits; minimal lamp replacements.
- Energy savings quickly offset initial investment.
4. The Environmental Advantage
- No mercury, no fragile filaments; less waste.
- Lower energy use reduces carbon footprint.
- Cooler operation protects surrounding ecosystems.
- Compatible with smart/solar controls.
5. Real‑World Example
20 fixtures at 35W halogen = 700W load. With 5W LEDs = 100W. That’s ~85% energy saved and years between replacements.
6. Striker LED Engineering
- Sealed, IP‑rated modules resist weather and moisture.
- Precision‑milled brass housings manage heat naturally.
- Optimised optics for uniform, glare‑controlled beams.
- Wide input range (9–15V) for stable output on long runs.
7. When Halogen Might Still Be Used
- Legacy retrofits where fixtures are not yet upgraded.
- Specific dimmer compatibilities in older installs.
- Even then, Striker LED retrofit lamps deliver similar beam quality at a fraction of the energy.
8. Striker’s Commitment to LED Innovation
LED is the foundation of our design philosophy — not an add‑on.
- Products purpose‑built around LED thermal and optical performance.
- Backed by a 5‑year fixture warranty and 3–5‑year LED warranty.
9. The Bottom Line
| Category | Halogen | LED (Striker) |
|---|---|---|
| Brightness per Watt | Low | High |
| Operating Cost | High | Low |
| Maintenance | Frequent | Minimal |
| Lifespan | 2,000–4,000 hrs | 30,000–50,000 hrs |
| Heat Output | Hot | Cool |
| Design Control | Limited | Precision beams |
| Sustainability | Inefficient | Eco‑friendly |
| Winner | ❌ | ✅ LED |
10. The Striker Advantage
Choose longevity, performance, and peace of mind.
- Consistent brightness and perfect colour balance.
- Effortless installation with pro‑grade components.
- Backed 100% by our team and warranties.
