How to choose your LED spotlights?

Understanding the different types of LED spotlights

Before making a purchase, it's essential to understand the main categories of LED spotlights and their specific features. Each type has its own advantages and is suitable for different situations or configurations.

Recessed spotlights

Recessed spotlights are prized for their discreetness and elegance. Installed directly into a false ceiling or a specially designed mount, they offer a modern and seamless look. This type of spotlight is ideal for living rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, and hallways where lighting is perfectly integrated into the architecture. However, their installation requires minimal work and sufficient ceiling height to accommodate the recessed housings.

Surface-mounted spotlights

Surface-mounted spotlights are mounted directly onto the ceiling or wall surface. They are particularly suitable for solid ceilings (concrete, brick) or when the available height does not allow for recessed lighting. Easy to install and available in a wide range of styles and finishes, they also allow for a certain degree of positioning flexibility and are perfect for customizing your lighting.

The 5 essential criteria for choosing your LED spotlights

Choosing the right LED spotlights isn't just about aesthetics. Several technical parameters must be considered to ensure efficient, comfortable lighting that's suited to each room. Here are the five main criteria to analyze before making your purchase.

Luminous power and luminous flux

Spot light output , expressed in lumens, determines the intensity of the light emitted. For ambient lighting, a lower luminous flux is sufficient, while functional lighting will require more lumens. Be sure to adapt the power according to the use and the room concerned.

Color temperature

The color temperature of a spotlight , measured in Kelvins, influences the atmosphere of the room. A warm white (2700-3000K) creates a warm ambiance, ideal for living rooms and bedrooms. A neutral white (4000K) is better suited to kitchens, offices or bathrooms for a more dynamic effect.

Lighting angle

The lighting angle determines the area illuminated by the spotlight. A narrow beam focuses the light on a specific point, perfect for highlighting a specific object or area. A wider angle provides more even overall lighting.

Protection index (IP)

The protection rating is crucial in humid rooms or outdoors. An IP44 rating is recommended for bathrooms, while an IP65 rating guarantees optimal resistance for patios or gardens. Remember to check this rating to avoid any risk of damage.

Compatibility with variators

If you want to adjust the light intensity, make sure your LED spotlights are compatible with a dimmer switch. This provides additional comfort and allows you to adapt the light to different times of day.

How to calculate the number of LED spotlights for a room?

For even and pleasant lighting, it's essential to carefully calculate the number of LED spotlights to install in a room. Poor distribution can result in shadowy areas or, conversely, overly harsh lighting. Fortunately, the method is simple and accessible to everyone.

It is estimated that a living room requires an average of 300 lumens per square meter. The formula to apply is as follows:

Room area (m²) × 300 lumens ÷ spotlight power (in lumens)

For example, for a 20 m² living room and spotlights of 400 lumens each:

20 × 300 ÷ 400 = 15 spots

This calculation gives an order of magnitude to adjust according to the configuration and ceiling height. The greater the height, the more you will need to increase the number of spotlights or choose more powerful models.

To go further and find out the best distribution of spotlights depending on the surface area, consult our dedicated article: How many spotlights should be installed per m²?

What power LED spotlight should I choose to light the ceiling?

The power of an LED spotlight plays a key role in visual comfort and lighting efficiency. It's not enough to simply use multiple spotlights: they must also be suited to the room and the desired effect.

For general lighting in a living room or dining room, we recommend spotlights with approximately 5 to 8 watts of LED per light point, corresponding to 400 to 600 lumens per spotlight. This creates a uniform, yet pleasant light.

In a kitchen or bathroom, where precision is important, more powerful spotlights (8 to 12 watts LED, or around 600 to 900 lumens) are preferable to ensure good functional lighting in work areas.

For a softer ambiance in a bedroom or reading corner, weaker spotlights (3 to 5 watts LED, or 200 to 400 lumens) are enough to create a warm lighting ambiance without dazzling.

Finally, remember to check whether your spotlights are compatible with a dimmer so you can adjust the light intensity according to the time of day and your preferences.

The best LED spotlight brands on the market

To ensure reliable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing lighting, choosing the right brand is as important as choosing the right model. Some brands stand out for the quality of their components, the precision of their light output, and the robustness of their products. Choosing a recognized manufacturer ensures better visual comfort and a longer lifespan for your installations.

Among the most popular brands is Maytoni , renowned for its elegant designs and wide range of LED spotlights suitable for all interior styles. This brand combines technical innovation and aesthetics, with both recessed and surface-mounted models offering both energy efficiency and careful finishing.

Other manufacturers specializing in professional LED lighting also offer reliable and high-performance products. When making your selection, choose spotlights made with quality materials, with a good color rendering index (CRI) and compliance with current electrical standards. Also check the availability of spare parts and the warranty period, guaranteeing a worry-free investment over time.

3 mistakes to avoid when choosing your LED spotlights

Even with well-defined criteria, it's easy to make mistakes that can compromise the quality of your lighting. To fully enjoy the benefits of LED spotlights, here are three pitfalls to absolutely avoid.

Neglecting electrical compatibility

Before purchasing your spotlights, make sure they are compatible with your existing electrical system. Some spotlights require a transformer, while others operate directly from the mains. Failure to check the supply voltage or the maximum power capacity of the circuit can cause malfunctions or, worse, damage your installation.

Ignoring the quality of materials

It may be tempting to opt for very affordable models, but the quality of the materials is essential. Low-end spotlights deteriorate more quickly, lose light intensity, and sometimes have electrical insulation defects. Choose spotlights that are robust, certified, and designed to last, especially for humid rooms or outdoor installations.

Underestimating the importance of the color rendering index (CRI)

CRI determines how colors are perceived under artificial light. A low CRI can make your rooms appear dull or distort the colors of walls and objects. For a natural and comfortable look, choose spotlights with a CRI of at least 80, or even higher for living spaces like the living room or kitchen.

Current trends in LED spotlights

LED spotlights keep pace with developments in design and technology to offer ever more practical and elegant solutions. In 2024, two major trends will emerge, appealing to fans of stylish and functional lighting.

Connected LED spotlights

Connected LED spotlights allow you to easily control lighting using an app or voice assistant. You can adjust the intensity, color temperature, or program lighting scenarios to suit your needs. This type of spotlight is particularly popular for creating personalized ambiances and evolving toward a smart home.

Minimalist designs and eco-friendly materials

LED spotlights feature sleek, understated lines, ideal for contemporary interiors. In terms of materials, the trend is toward sustainability, with models made from recycled aluminum or more environmentally friendly raw materials. These spotlights combine modern design with a responsible approach.

Optimize your lighting with suitable LED spotlights

Choosing the right LED spotlights is essential for creating lighting that's both functional and pleasant. By considering criteria such as light output, color temperature, spotlight type, and lighting arrangement, you can adapt your installation to each room of the house and avoid common mistakes. Current trends also offer stylish, connected, and more environmentally friendly models.

Well-designed lighting contributes to your daily comfort and enhances your interior. To learn more and discover our selection of LED spotlights, browse our spotlight collection and find the perfect model for your project.