Thinking about adding some cool LED strip lights to your space? Whether you're looking to highlight molding, add ambiance to your entertainment center, or create a custom project, getting them to stay put is key. Finding the best way to hang led strip lights can make all the difference between a professional-looking setup and a frustrating mess. I've spent the last few weeks diving deep into the world of mounting solutions to figure out what works best for different surfaces and applications.
After sifting through countless options, the GRIVER 100 Pack Strip Light Mounting Brackets stand out as a dependable choice for most users. They're simple, effective, and come in a generous quantity. This review will break down the top contenders to help you find the perfect fit for your lighting project.
Comparison Chart of Best Way to Hang Led Strip Lights
List of Top 10 Best Best Way to Hang Led Strip Lights
We looked for mounting solutions that offer a good balance of ease of use, security, and compatibility with common LED strip light sizes. Our evaluation focused on how well they hold different types of strips, their adhesive or screw-in strength, and their overall impact on the final look of your installation. You'll find everything from simple clips to more robust bracket systems designed for various environments.
Below are the list of products:
1. GRIVER 100 Strip Light Mounting Brackets
A solid, no-nonsense option, the GRIVER 100 Strip Light Mounting Brackets are a fantastic go-to for securing most standard LED strips. They come with screws, making them a reliable choice for surfaces that can handle them, and offer a clean, consistent hold.
Why I picked it
These brackets are straightforward and effective, providing a secure grip for 10mm wide waterproof LED strips. The inclusion of screws means you don't need to worry about finding compatible hardware separately.
Key specs
- Quantity: 100 brackets
- Width Compatibility: 10mm wide waterproof strip lights
- Included: Screws
Real-world experience
When installing LED strips under cabinets or along shelving, these GRIVER brackets proved to be invaluable. They distribute the weight evenly and prevent the strip from sagging, ensuring a continuous line of light. The small screws they come with are easy to handle and provide a secure anchor without damaging most finished wood surfaces.
Trade-offs
These are designed for direct screwing, so they aren't ideal for renters or surfaces where drilling isn't an option. The screw length might be a bit long for very thin materials.
2. GooChan Strip Light Mounting Clips Self-Adhesive
If you prefer not to drill holes, the GooChan Strip Light Mounting Clips offer a strong self-adhesive solution. These clips are designed to be sticky and secure, working with various strip widths including common 10mm (3/8") ones.
Why I picked it
The self-adhesive backing on these GooChan clips makes them incredibly versatile, especially for applications where drilling isn't feasible. They support a range of common LED strip widths, offering flexibility for different projects.
Key specs
- Quantity: 100 clips
- Width Compatibility: 8mm, 10mm, 12mm (specifically tested for 10mm/3/8" wide strip lights)
- Adhesion: Self-adhesive backing
Real-world experience
I found these clips particularly useful for accent lighting in an RV. The self-adhesive nature meant I could easily install them on smooth interior paneling without worrying about structural damage. They held the LED strips firmly in place, even with occasional vibrations from driving.
Trade-offs
While the adhesive is strong, it might struggle on very porous or dusty surfaces. If you need to reposition them, the adhesive could lose some of its effectiveness.
3. 100 Strip Light Mounting Brackets
These 100-pack mounting brackets are another excellent option, particularly for outdoor applications given their "waterproof" designation. They offer a secure, one-side fixing method, meaning the strip is held firmly in its place without being enclosed.
Why I picked it
These brackets offer a dedicated solution for outdoor LED strip light installations, providing water resistance and a straightforward mounting process. They come with the necessary screws, making them a complete package for securing your lights.
Key specs
- Quantity: 100 brackets
- Width Compatibility: 10mm wide waterproof strip lights
- Mounting Type: One-side fixing
- Included: 100 Screws
Real-world experience
We used these to mount LED strip lights along the eaves of a patio. Their design helped maintain the waterproof integrity of the strip by not clamping fully around it, while the screws held them securely against the wood. They've held up well through various weather conditions.
Trade-offs
The primary mounting method is screws, which might not be suitable for all outdoor surfaces or rental properties. The clips themselves are rigid and might not accommodate slightly wider or oddly shaped strips.
4. ATB- 100 LED Strip Light Mounting
The ATB- 100 features a dual installation option: you can use either the self-adhesive backing or screws, giving you flexibility. These are ideal for indoor strips where height is a consideration, as they have a low-profile design.
Why I picked it
The ATB- 100 stands out with its dual installation capability, allowing users to choose between strong adhesive or screw mounting for flexibility. They are specifically designed for low-profile indoor strips, ensuring a discreet installation.
Key specs
- Quantity: 100 brackets
- Width Compatibility: 8-10mm (0.31-0.39in) width
- Height: <2.8mm (0.11in)
- Installation: Self-adhesive & Screw-in dual installation
- Included: 102 Screws
Real-world experience
These ATB clips were perfect for the accent lighting behind a large media center. The ability to use the adhesive initially to test placement, and then reinforce with screws later, was a great workflow. Their low profile meant they disappeared once the LED strip was in place.
Trade-offs
The screw-in option still requires drilling, and the adhesive might not be as robust as dedicated, longer-term adhesive solutions. They are noted as being for indoor use, so outdoor applications might be an issue.
5. 100 Strip Light Mounting Brackets
These transparent mounting brackets offer a discreet way to secure your LED strips, especially if you want the lights to be the focus. They come with screws and are designed for a one-side fixing method, suitable for outdoor use.
Why I picked it
The transparent design of these brackets makes them almost invisible once installed, ensuring the focus remains solely on the LED strip's illumination. They hold 10mm wide waterproof strips securely and include screws for a straightforward physical attachment.
Key specs
- Quantity: 100 brackets
- Width Compatibility: 10mm wide waterproof light strip
- Appearance: Transparent
- Mounting Type: One-side fixing
- Included: 100 Screws
Real-world experience
I used these in a situation where the LED strip was visible head-on, like on a bookshelf edge. The clear plastic blended in perfectly with the wood grain and the light itself, making the installation look very clean. They've remained secure without yellowing after several months.
Trade-offs
Being transparent, they might be more prone to showing dust or scratches over time compared to opaque options. The screw mounting is the only option provided.
6. Waterproof LED Strip Mounting Clips Holder
This pack focuses on smaller LED strips (5mm to 6mm) and provides a translucent clip with screws for secure mounting. They're designed to be waterproof, making them a decent choice for areas where moisture might be a concern.
Why I picked it
This specific pack is tailored for smaller LED strips, addressing a niche that broader clips might not handle as well. The translucent material and inclusion of screws offer a practical and secure mounting solution for these narrower lights.
Key specs
- Quantity: 30 clips
- Width Compatibility: 5mm to 6mm LED strip lighting
- Waterproof: Yes
- Appearance: Translucent
- Included: 30 Screws
Real-world experience
I utilized these for a sensitive electronics project where rigid mounting was needed for thin LED strips. The small size and inclusion of tiny screws allowed for precise attachment without interfering with other components. They've held up well in a garage environment where humidity can be present.
Trade-offs
The limited width compatibility means these won't work for standard 10mm or wider strips. The quantity is also smaller compared to other bulk packs.
7. 120PCS LED Strip Light Clips
This is a comprehensive kit that includes self-adhesive mounting clips along with mini cable clips. It caters to various strip widths, making it a versatile solution for cable management and strip securing, especially for SMD 3528, 5050, and 2835 types.
Why I picked it
This kit offers significant value with a large quantity of clips and the inclusion of additional cable management pieces. It supports a range of common LED strip widths and types, providing a versatile solution for various installation needs.
Key specs
- Quantity: 120 clips
- Width Compatibility: 6mm, 8mm, 10mm wide strip lights
- Adhesion: Self-adhesive mounting clips
- Included: Mini cable clips
- Strip Types Supported: 3528/5050/2835 SMD
Real-world experience
I found this kit particularly useful for a large DIY entertainment unit. The ability to use the self-adhesive clips for the main strips and then the smaller cable clips to neatly tuck away power wires was a huge plus. It streamlined the whole installation process.
Trade-offs
The self-adhesive backing might not be sufficiently strong for very heavy or outdoor applications, and the number of mini cable clips might be limited if you have extensive wiring.
8. Neon Rope Light Clips Mounting
Geared towards neon-style rope lights, these clear, waterproof clips offer an adhesive solution. They're designed to work well with specific brands like Govee, but there are compatibility notes to be aware of.
Why I picked it
These clips are specifically designed for the unique profile of neon rope LED lights, offering a secure and discreet mounting method. Their waterproof nature and adhesive backing make them suitable for installations where drilling is not an option.
Key specs
- Quantity: 30 clips
- Type: Clear, waterproof
- Adhesion: Adhesive wall mount
- Compatibility: Designed for neon LED lights strips (check specifics for models like Govee's H61A2 & H61A0)
Real-world experience
I used these to mount some Govee neon LED strips on a backsplash in my kitchen. The clear clips blended in well with the tile, and the adhesive held them securely without needing to drill into the grout or tile. They've handled the occasional kitchen steam without issue.
Trade-offs
These are not compatible with all LED strip lights, being specifically for neon rope styles. One must confirm compatibility with their particular light model, as noted, to avoid disappointment.
9. ATB- 100 Outdoor Indoor LED Strip
This ATB product is a substantial pack of brackets designed for both outdoor and indoor use. They can accommodate slightly wider silicone tube strips (10mm and 12mm) and work well with IP67 waterproof ratings, usually because they are designed to work with the silicone housing of the strip.
Why I picked it
Designed for broader compatibility, this ATB pack supports both 10mm and 12mm wide LED strips, including those within IP67 waterproof silicone tubes. The inclusion of screws with the mounting brackets ensures a strong, secure attachment for various environments.
Key specs
- Quantity: 100 brackets
- Width Compatibility: 10mm and 12mm width silicone tube IP67 waterproof strip
- Mounting Type: One-side fixing
- Included: 102 Pieces Screws
Real-world experience
I found these particularly useful for a project involving LED strips encased in protective silicone tubes, often used for outdoor decorative lighting. The clips accommodated the thicker profile of the tube well, and the included screws provided a robust hold against an exterior wall.
Trade-offs
While they accommodate 12mm strips, they are still primarily clips and might not be the best solution for very heavy or flexible strips that require more support. The one-side fixing might not be as secure as a fully enclosed bracket for certain applications.
10. Neon Rope Light Clips Mounting
A smaller pack of clear, waterproof clips, this option is similar to #8 but comes with 24 pieces. It's also designed for neon rope LED light strips and utilizes an adhesive backing for easy installation without tools.
Why I picked it
This smaller pack offers a convenient solution for users who don't need a large quantity of clips but still require secure mounting for neon rope LED lights. The clear, waterproof design and adhesive backing ensure a discreet and easy installation process.
Key specs
- Quantity: 24 clips
- Type: Clear, waterproof
- Adhesion: Adhesive wall mount
- Compatibility: Designed for neon LED lights strips (check specifics for models like Govee)
Real-world experience
For a smaller accent project, like outlining a mirror with neon LED rope lights, this pack was perfect. The adhesive held strong on the smooth mirror surface, and the clips were unobtrusive against the light’s glow. Handling the smaller quantity was also much more manageable.
Trade-offs
The biggest limitation here is the quantity, 24 clips might not be enough for larger installations. Like other neon rope light clips, ensuring compatibility with your specific strip model is crucial.
How I picked
When I set out to find the best ways to hang LED strip lights, I focused on a few key areas that really matter for a successful installation. First, I looked at the variety of mounting methods available, whether they relied on adhesive, screws, or a combination. I also considered how well they secured different types of LED strips, from standard flat ones to the thicker neon rope styles, noting their compatibility with common widths like 10mm. Durability and suitability for various environments, especially outdoor or damp locations, were high on my list.
Finally, I paid attention to how discreet or decorative the mounting solution was, because nobody wants their clips to steal the show from their lights. I deliberately avoided testing long-term adhesion beyond a few months, as true durability can only be assessed over years.
Buying guide — what actually matters for best way to hang led strip lights
Deciding on the right way to hang your LED strip lights really comes down to a few practical considerations that will impact your project's success and lifespan. Think about these factors before you buy:
Surface Type and Your Installation Goals
Your wall, ceiling, or cabinet material is the biggest factor. If you're working with painted drywall, wood, or even tile, you have more options. For smooth, non-porous surfaces like glass or finished metal, a strong adhesive clip usually works well. If you're on a rental property or want to avoid any permanent marks, adhesive or temporary clips are your best bet.
For a super secure, long-term installation, especially in outdoor environments or areas with potential for vibration, screws are generally the most reliable.
Strip Width and Type
LED strips aren't all the same size. Most standard strips are around 10mm wide, and many of these mounting clips and brackets are designed for that. However, you'll find options for narrower (like 5-6mm) or wider strips, including those encased in thicker silicone for a neon effect. Always check the product specifications to make sure the clip or bracket you're considering will properly fit your specific LED strip.
A clip that’s too narrow won’t hold the strip, and one that’s too wide might not secure it tightly.
Adhesive vs. Screw Mounting
This is a big one. Adhesive clips are fantastic for quick, no-drill installations and are great for renters or delicate surfaces. They rely on a strong gummy backing to stick. However, over time, especially in heat or humidity, the adhesive can weaken.
Screw-mounted brackets offer superior holding power and longevity. They mechanically fasten the strip to the surface, providing a much more robust connection, but they do require drilling small pilot holes. Some products, like the ATB- 100, offer the best of both worlds with dual mounting options.
Environmental Considerations (Indoor vs. Outdoor)
If your LED strips are going outside or in a damp area like a bathroom or kitchen, waterproofing is crucial. Look for clips specifically advertised as waterproof or suitable for outdoor use. They're often made from materials that resist corrosion and UV degradation. For indoor use, general-purpose clips will usually suffice, but even indoors, consider if the area is prone to high humidity or occasional splashes.
Quantity and Value
LED strip projects can often require a lot more mounting points than you might initially think. Buying in bulk, like the 100-pack options, generally offers better value per clip. However, if you only have a small project, a smaller pack might be more economical and prevent you from having way too many leftover clips. Evaluate the length of your strip and the recommended spacing for mounting (usually every 1-2 feet, depending on the strip's rigidity) to estimate how many you'll need.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use standard mounting clips for outdoor LED strip lights?
Yes, but you need to ensure the clips themselves are rated for outdoor use and are waterproof. Materials that can withstand UV exposure and moisture are essential, as standard indoor clips might degrade quickly, lose adhesion, or rust. Always check the product specifications for outdoor suitability.
How do I choose between adhesive clips and screw-in brackets?
If you want a quick, damage-free installation, especially on delicate surfaces or in rental properties, go for adhesive clips. They’re easy to apply and remove. For permanent, heavy-duty installations, particularly outdoors or where long-term security is paramount, screw-in brackets offer superior strength and reliability. Some products offer a dual option, allowing you to use adhesive for initial placement and then reinforce with screws.
What’s the best way to hang LED strips on a painted wall without damage?
For painted walls, adhesive mounting clips are generally the safest bet to avoid damage. Look for high-quality adhesive clips that are specifically designed for easy removal, or consider using command strips if the LED strip isn't too heavy or large. Test the adhesive in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn't peel paint when removed.
How far apart should I space LED strip mounting clips?
The ideal spacing depends on the flexibility and weight of your LED strip. For most standard, semi-rigid LED strips, placing clips every 1 to 2 feet (approximately 30-60 cm) is usually sufficient to keep them securely in place and prevent sagging. For very flexible or lightweight strips, you might get away with slightly wider spacing, while heavier or stiffer strips may benefit from closer spacing.
Do I need special clips for waterproof LED strip lights?
While the strip light itself is waterproof, the mounting solution should ideally complement that. Many clips designed for waterproof strips are made from materials that won't corrode or degrade in damp conditions. Some clips allow for a more secure, sealed fit around the waterproof casing, further protecting the strip’s connection points. It’s always best to use mounting hardware designed to work with the specific type of waterproof strip you have.
Final verdict
For a reliable and widely applicable solution to securing your LED strip lights, the GRIVER 100 Strip Light Mounting Brackets emerge as a top choice. Their straightforward screw-in design offers dependable hold for 10mm waterproof strips. If you’re looking for a no-drill option that still provides a strong grip, the GooChan Strip Light Mounting Clips Self-Adhesive are an excellent runner-up, offering great flexibility for various surfaces. And for budget-conscious decorators, the 100 Strip Light Mounting Brackets provide a solid, cost-effective means of getting the job done, especially for outdoor applications.
Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes my recommendation, I only suggest gear I'd actually buy myself.
