Color temperature

• Posted on 3 January 2023
• By INTOLED
• 0

Light color temperature plays an important role in creating a comfortable and productive environment at home or at work. Different rooms require different light colors to create the desired ambiance. Warmer colors, such as yellow and orange, are best suited for living rooms and bedrooms, as they create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Cooler colors, such as blue and white, are best suited for offices and other work spaces, as they create a more energizing and productive atmosphere. By understanding the importance of light color temperature and choosing the right color for each room, you can create a pleasant and productive environment.

What does LED color temperature mean?

LED color temperature is a measure of the color of light emitted by an LED light source. The LED colour temperature is indicated in the measuring unit Kelvin (K) on a scale of 1000 to 10,000. It is based on the principle that the temperature of a black body (an object that absorbs all light) is proportional to the amount of energy it emits. The Kelvin scale is used to measure the color temperature of light sources, which is the temperature of the black body that most closely matches the color of the light source. The higher the Kelvin temperature, the bluer the light source appears. 

Below a few everyday examples: 

• The glow of fire is about 2000K and therefore has a very warm light colour. 
• A sunset is about 4000K and has a cool white light colour. 
• An average sunny day is between 5000 and 5500K and has a cool light colour. 
• A cloudy winter day is around 7000K and is experienced as quite cool. 
   

What is the difference in color temperature of LED lights?  

LED lights come in a variety of color temperatures, ranging from warm white (2700K) to cool white (6000K). The lower the color temperature, the warmer the light appears, while higher color temperatures appear cooler and more blue. 

What is the best LED color temperature?

The best colour for LED lights depends on the application. For general lighting, a color temperature of 2700-3000K is usually recommended for a warm, inviting atmosphere. For task lighting, a higher color temperature of 4000-5000K is usually preferred for its bright, crisp light. In our shop all lamps are divided into three categories: warm white, neutral white and daylight white. Below we describe each category and name a number of applications. 

What is better; 3000K or 5000K?

The colors 3000K and 5000K are both color temperatures used to measure the color of light. 3000K is a warm white light, while 5000K is a cool white light. 3000K is often used in residential settings, while 5000K is often used in commercial settings. 3000K is a softer, more yellowish white, while 5000K is a brighter, more blueish white. Which is whiter; 3000K or 5000K? In terms of which is whiter, 5000K is the brighter and whiter of the two. 

Office lighting tips:

Now that we have discussed the different light colors for your home, we are taking a closer look at led office lighting. Productivity is very important and therefore several studies have been done into which colour temperature (of led lights) works best in an office situation or for a led office lamp. 

Office led lights are important because it affects the productivity, mood and health of employees. Poor lighting can cause eye strain, fatigue, and headaches, which can lead to decreased productivity and morale. Good office lighting helps to create a comfortable and inviting work environment, which in turn can boost employee productivity. You can read more about the importance of office lighting in our blog. 

Which colour temperature for which room?

Since we know that it is often difficult to make a choice in the light colour of a lamp, we have explained the most common light colours below. We show which Kelvin value belongs to which emotional colour temperature and give examples of the application in the home or workplace. 

2200K light colour temperature

The 2200K light colour temperature is a very warm, orange-yellow light. It comes close to candle light, which is usually around 1500K-1800K. 

LED color temperature 2700K 

This light colour temperature is only slightly cooler than the colour light emitted by a candle. It is a warm and cosy colour temperature that by definition provides atmosphere to the room in question. This colour temperature is used, for example, in the living room or bedroom. 

3000K colour temperature

What is colour temperature 3000K? The colour temperature 3000K is a warm white colour temperature that falls exactly between a warm and a bright colour. It is a mood light that can also be used functionally at the same time. You can use this colour temperature, for example, at the dining table or in the entrance area of your home. 

4000K colour temperature 

The colour temperature 4000K is a fine, bright light that still feels warm and looks a bit like sunrise or sunset. This colour temperature is used in shops, for example, but is also perfect for your kitchen at home. 

4500K LED colour temperature

A beautiful bright colour, a few hours after sunrise. You can almost call this daylight, but it is just a little warmer than that. Use this colour temperature in your study or work space. This is also a good choice of light in the bathroom. 

The reason for this is that blue light leads to the reduced production of melatonin. This fabric ensures that we become drowsy. Something that you obviously do not want in your workplace. 
 
Note: Avoid blue light in the bedroom. The reduced production of melatonin makes it difficult for you to fall asleep. 

5000K colour temperature

This colour is crystal clear and comparable to a bright afternoon sun. This daylight colour temperature is the type of light you want if you want to be able to see the perfect colours to determine, for example, the colour of a wall, a garment or a work of art. 

What is the general color temperature of daylight?

The general colour temperature of daylight is around 5500K.

5700K led colour temperature

This colour is better than the midday sun that is high in the sky. It is a bright colour temperature, which is almost heading towards cool.

6000K led colour temperature 

This colour is mainly used in workshops and warehouses. A bright white light that shows the first tones of blue light. This is the perfect light for working or studying, because you get energy from it just like natural light. 

6400K colour temperature 

This colour temperature is very similar to a sky with clouds. It is a colour that feels slightly cool and is already moving towards white. A colour that matches, for example, hospital light. 

Colour temperature 6500k

The initial cold colour temperature of 6500K can best be compared to a cloudy sky. 
cloudy sky. This colour is mainly used functionally and you will encounter it at the dentist, for example. 

Summary on what you need to know about the colour of your LED lighting

Light colors, or color temperatures, are an important factor to consider when selecting lighting for any space. The higher the Kelvin temperature, the cooler the light appears, while the lower the Kelvin temperature, the warmer the light appears.  
 
White LED color temperature is usually measured between 2700K and 6500K. A 2700K LED light is considered a warm white, while a 6500K LED light is considered a cool white. Warm white color temperature LED lighting is best for living rooms, bedrooms, and other areas where a cozy atmosphere is desired. Kitchen LED lighting color temperature should be higher, usually around 4000K to 5000K, as this will provide a bright, well-lit environment.  
 
Lighting colour temperature also plays an important role in the ambience of a space. Neutral white light is usually around 4000K and provides a bright, natural light. Warm white light is usually around 3000K and provides a more cozy atmosphere. Neutral white vs warm white is a personal preference, as both can provide a pleasant atmosphere.  
 
Cool white colour temperature is usually around 5000K and above. This type of light is best for areas where a bright, well-lit environment is desired, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and offices. Colour temperature LED lighting is also available in a variety of different shades, so it is important to consider the desired atmosphere before making a selection. Bulb colour temperature is also important to consider, as different bulbs can produce different color temperatures. 

Questions?

Do you need help in choosing the right workplace lighting? Do not hesitate and contact one of our LED specialists. This can be done by calling us on +31 (0)85 303 0027 or by sending an e-mail to [email protected]. Often you can also speak directly to one of our specialists via the Live chat on our site.