CCT or Correlated Color Temperature
What is Color Temperature (CCT) in LED Lighting? A Complete Guide
While LED lighting has become a household staple, understanding the technical terms behind it—like CCT (Correlated Color Temperature)—can be confusing. And without this knowledge, it’s easy to end up with lighting that doesn’t suit your needs or space.
In this guide, we’ll simplify what color temperature really means, how it’s measured, and how to choose the right one for your application.
What is Correlated Color Temperature (CCT)?
According to the Lighting Research Center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute:
“Correlated color temperature (CCT) is a measure of light source color appearance defined by the proximity of the light source's chromaticity coordinates to the blackbody locus, as a single number rather than the two required to specify a chromaticity.” — NLPIP, 2004
In simpler terms, CCT describes the color appearance of light—whether it looks warm (yellowish), neutral, or cool (bluish). It is measured in Kelvins (K) and applies to all types of LED lighting, not just LED strips.
Color Temperature Chart: Understanding CCT Ranges
| Kelvin (K) | Light Color | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| 1500K – 2400K | Ultra Warm / Amber | Mood lighting, bars, cozy bedrooms, ambient accent lighting |
| 2700K – 3500K | Warm White | Residential spaces, cafes, restaurants, indirect lighting |
| 4000K – 5000K | Neutral / Cool White | Offices, retail stores, classrooms, task lighting |
| 6000K | Daylight / Pure White | Studios, showrooms, film production, professional settings |
| 8000K and above | Bluish Light | Indoor agriculture, special effects, limited-use areas |
How CCT Affects Lighting Mood and Functionality
- Lower Kelvin = Warmer Light: Creates a cozy, relaxing atmosphere.
- Higher Kelvin = Cooler Light: Feels more energetic and crisp—ideal for focus-intensive environments.
- Mid-range = Balanced Light: Suitable for everyday use in both commercial and residential settings.
CCT vs Brightness: What's the Difference?
It’s important to understand that CCT does not indicate brightness. CCT refers to the color appearance, while lumens measure brightness. For example, a 2700K light and a 5000K light can have the same brightness level, even though their color outputs differ significantly.
Always check lumens if you want a brighter light, and use Kelvins to match the desired tone or ambiance.
Final Thoughts
Understanding color temperature (CCT) helps you choose the right lighting for each room, mood, or task. Whether you're shopping for LED strip lights, bulbs, floodlights, or downlights—knowing how warm or cool the light will appear makes all the difference in both aesthetics and performance.