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Single ended vs double ended LED Tubes: Key Differences & Benefits
We have created a comparison chart to help you understand the key differences between single and double ended LED Tubes. Please contact us for specialist help and advice.
In this guide:
Find out more about the key differences between a single and double ended LED tube light
Learn more about the terms associated with LED tube fittings
Discover more about LED tubes
Single ended vs double ended LED Tubes
We have compiled the quick guide below to help you understand the difference between a single ended and double-ended LED tube.
| SINGLE ENDED LED Tube | DOUBLE ENDED LED Tube | |
|---|---|---|
| Installation/ Fitting | Only one side receives power (called the ‘input end’) Most come with markers to indicate ‘live’ and ‘neutral’ pins |
Neutral pin on one end, live pin on the other No changes to the socket are required Easier choice for electricians because it’s low-maintenance |
| Ballasts | Many are direct-wire and don’t need a ballast |
Ballasts can be bypassed Removing ballasts reduces maintenance and decreases the amount of wattage |
| Points of Failure | Non-shunted sockets are needed Requires additional labour and material costs Can't use existing sockets |
There’s a chance of electric shock hazard UL-certified tubes have anti-shock protection, but they’re few ETL-certified don’t have anti-shock protection |
| Cost Difference | There’s no cost difference between the two types of tubes. | |
| Benefits | Easier to set up wires on only one side |
Safer to install Saves on labour costs |
| Best Sellers |
Glossary
Input End
The side containing both ‘neutral’ and ‘live’ pins. It’s the only side that receives power on single-ended LED tubes.
Ballast
An electronic component that regulates the electrical current in fluorescent tubes.
Lampholder
Also known as a socket, it’s the electric fixture that secures bulbs and holds them in place.
Shunted Socket
These contain internally connected electrical contact. There’s a single track for the current to travel.
Non-Shunted Socket
It creates a separate entry point, creating 2 different tracks for the current to travel.
T5/T8
‘T’ refers to the tubular shape. The number refers to the tube’s diameter in inches.
- T5 = 5/8 of an inch (16 mm)
- T8 = 8/8 of an inch (25 mm)
Sometimes, the T5 is called T16, which refers to the tube’s diameter in mm.
Useful further reading
We have a number of other useful resources relating to LED Tubes:
LED v Fluorescent LED Tubes
How to replace your fluorescent tubes with LED counterparts (includes cost comparisons)
Our most popular brands Energizer, Osram & Sylvania
Our best picks for warm white, white and cool white Led Tubes
Frosted V Clear Led Tubes – what you need to know
Picking T8 Tubes – Budget, Mid-Range and Premium options
Picking T5 Tubes – Budget, Mid-Range and Premium options
Waterproof Led Tubes – what this really means
Glass v Polycarbonate LED Tubes
Single v Double Edge LED Tubes
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