CCT downlights, also known as Correlated Colour Temperature downlights, are a popular choice for residential and commercial spaces. They provide a versatile and energy-efficient lighting solution that creates a variety of atmospheres. In this blog post, we'll explore what CCT downlights are, how they work and suggest some of the best CCT downlights available.
What is a CCT Downlight?
A CCT downlight is a type of LED lighting fixture that offers a unique level of versatility. Unlike traditional downlights with fixed colour temperatures, CCT downlights allow you to adjust the colour of the light emitted, providing a wide range of options to suit your specific needs and preferences.
The colour temperature of a light source is measured in Kelvin (K). Lower Kelvin values produce a warmer, more reddish light, while higher values produce a cooler, more bluish light. CCT downlights typically offer settings ranging from warm white (around 2700K) to cool white (around 5000K).
This flexibility allows you to create different moods and atmospheres in your space. For example, a warm white light can create a cosy and inviting ambience in a living room, while a cool white light can provide a bright and focused environment in an office or kitchen.
What is the difference between 2700K, 3000K, 4000K, and 5000K in LED lighting?
Colour temperature, measured in Kelvin (K), determines the "warmth" or "coolness" of light. Here's a breakdown of common colour temperatures:
2700K: Warm white, often used for creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere.
3000K: Soft white, a versatile option that can be used in various settings.
4000K: Neutral white, a popular choice for offices and task lighting.
5000K: Cool white, often used in industrial or commercial settings.
6500K: Daylight white, ideal for simulating natural daylight.
How Do CCT LED Downlights Work and What is Their Advantage?
The colour temperature of a CCT downlight is normally set at the point of installation with a switch located on the back of the light. Some downlights feature a convenient switch located under the bezel, making it simple for users to change the CCT without the need to remove the entire fixture from the ceiling.
The versatility of CCT downlights benefits both installers and end users. Installers appreciate not having to anticipate lighting colour requirements for individual clients and end users can effortlessly customise their lighting to suit requirements.
Colour Selectable vs. Colour Changing Lighting
Colour-selectable and colour-changing lighting are two distinctly different types of LED lighting that offer varying levels of customisation.
Colour Selectable Lighting:
Limited Colour Options - Colour-selectable lighting typically offers a few pre-set white light options, such as warm white (3000K), neutral white (4000K), and cool white (5000K).
Static colours - The selected colour remains constant and cannot be adjusted dynamically.
Common Applications - Widely used in residential and commercial settings like offices, shops, and homes.
Colour Changing Lighting:
Infinite colour Possibilities - Colour-changing lighting can produce a vast spectrum of colours, including hues, pastels and vibrant shades.
Dynamic Colour Shifts - Colours can be changed continuously or in programmed sequences controlled via remote control or app.
Common Applications - Often used for decorative purposes, such as building facades, stage lighting and themed environments.
In summary, colour selectable lighting provides a basic level of customisation for white light, while colour changing lighting offers a more dynamic and creative solution with a wide range of colours.
What’s The Difference Between CCT and CRI?
CCT (Correlated Colour Temperature) and CRI (Colour Rendering Index) are two key metrics that describe the quality of white light. While they are often considered together, they measure different aspects of the light's performance.
CCT - The Appearance of the Light:
Warm vs. Cool - CCT determines the overall "warmth" or "coolness" of the light. Lower CCT values (e.g., 2700K) produce a warmer, more inviting light, while higher CCT values (e.g., 5000K) create a cooler, more focused light.
CRI - How Well Colours Are Rendered:
Colour Accuracy - CRI measures how accurately a light source renders the colours of objects. A higher CRI indicates better colour rendering.
Importance in Specific Settings - High CRI values are crucial in applications where accurate colour perception is essential, such as retail stores, art galleries and offices.
Is CCT the Same as Lumens?
No, CCT and lumens are not the same. CCT refers to the colour temperature of the light, while lumens measure the brightness or intensity of the light. A CCT downlight with a high lumen output will be brighter, regardless of its colour temperature.
What are the Best CCT Downlights?
When choosing CCT downlights, consider factors such as the desired colour temperature, lumen output, beam angle and overall aesthetic. By selecting the right CCT downlights, you can create a lighting environment that enhances your space and meets your specific needs.
Here are some of the top-rated CCT downlights available:
JCC V50: Known for its sleek design V50 offers 3000K (cool white) or 4000K (warm white) CCT. Switch located under the bezel on non-tilt models for simple colour selection at any time.
Collingwood H2 Lite: TRIAC dimmable downlights that offer a wide range of colour temperatures and adjustable beam angles with CCT switch located under the bezel.
Ansell Prism Pro CCT: Offers versatile lighting with four colour temperatures (2700K to 6000K) and two wattage options (5W or 7W) for optimal light distribution.