Rope Lights vs LED Strip Lights vs Neon Rope

Rope lights, LED strips, and neon rope all give a line of light, but they are different products. This guide compares the three. See our best LED rope lights, best LED strip lights, and best LED neon rope lights lists.

The Short Version

Choose rope lights for outdoor lines you plug into the wall, such as decks, fences, and eaves. Choose LED strips for hidden, indoor accent light. Choose neon rope for a visible glowing line or shape.

Side by Side

Factor	Rope lights	LED strips	Neon rope
Look	Clear tube with visible LEDs	Flat strip, adhesive back	Diffused tube, glows evenly
Power	Mostly 120V plug-in	5V, 12V, or 24V supply	5V to 24V supply; a few 120V
Outdoor	Common, IP65 and up	Needs a waterproof strip	Needs an IP-rated rope
Mounting	Clips	Adhesive backing	Clips or brackets
Best for	Decks, fences, eaves, holiday lights	Cabinets, behind TVs, bedrooms	Wall designs, signs, gaming walls

Who Should Choose Each

• Rope: long outdoor runs and holiday displays
• Strip: hidden accent light inside
• Neon rope: visible light you want to bend into shapes

Who Should Look Elsewhere

• Want a flat waterproof strip? See waterproof LED strip lights
• Want a neon sign? See how to make a neon sign with neon rope lights

Frequently Asked Questions

Are rope lights the same as LED strips?

No. Rope lights are in a round or flat tube; strips are a flat board with an adhesive back.

Which is brighter?

Compare the listed LED count and wattage.

Which is best outdoors?

Rope lights and IP-rated neon ropes are both made for it.

Safety note: most rope lights plug into 120V household power. Use only the plug and cord supplied, look for a UL or ETL mark, use outdoor-rated outlets and cords outside, keep plugs and connectors out of standing water, and follow the manual. Anything that connects to a household circuit should be done by a licensed electrician.

Check current pricing and availability for the UltraPro LED Rope Lights.

About the author