Choosing Correct Light Colour Temperature (CCT)

CCT stands for Correlated Color Temperature, which is a measure of the color appearance of a light source. It is measured in Kelvin (K) and refers to the temperature at which a theoretical black body (an object that absorbs all electromagnetic radiation) would have a similar color appearance to the light source being measured.

In simple terms, CCT is used to describe whether a light source appears warm, neutral, or cool in color. Warm light sources have a lower CCT (usually around 2700K-3000K) and emit a yellowish or reddish light, while cool light sources have a higher CCT (usually around 5000K-6500K) and emit a bluish or white light. Neutral light sources have a CCT in the middle range (usually around 4000K-4500K) and emit a light that is neither warm nor cool.

CCT is an important factor to consider when choosing lighting for different applications, as it can greatly affect the ambiance and functionality of a space. For example, warm light sources are often used in residential applications to create a cozy and relaxing atmosphere, while cool light sources are often used in commercial or industrial settings where visual clarity and brightness are important.

Application Examples

2700K (Extra Warm White)

2700K CCT is typically chosen when a warm and cozy ambiance is desired. Warm white light with a CCT of 2700K has a yellowish or reddish hue that can help create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere. This makes it a popular choice for residential lighting applications such as living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms.

In addition to residential settings, 2700K CCT may also be used in hospitality settings such as hotels, restaurants, and bars where a cozy and intimate atmosphere is desired. It can also be used in retail environments to enhance the appearance of certain products, particularly those that benefit from warm, ambient lighting such as textiles, leather, and wood.

In general, 2700K CCT is best suited for environments where visual acuity is not critical and where a warm and inviting ambiance is desired. It may not be the best choice for environments where precise color rendering is required, such as in art studios or medical facilities, as the warm hue can distort color perception.

3000K (Warm White)

3000K CCT is similar to 2700K CCT in that it also provides a warm and cozy ambiance, but with a slightly cooler tone. It emits a yellowish-white light that is slightly brighter than 2700K CCT, making it a popular choice for a variety of residential and commercial lighting applications.

In residential settings, 3000K CCT is often used for task lighting in areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, and workspaces. It can also be used in living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

In commercial settings, 3000K CCT is often used in retail stores, restaurants, and hotels where a warm and inviting ambiance is desired. It can also be used in offices and workspaces to create a comfortable and productive environment.

Overall, 3000K CCT is a versatile option that provides a warm and inviting ambiance with a slightly cooler tone than 2700K CCT. It's a good choice for a wide variety of applications where visual acuity is not critical but a warm and welcoming environment is desired.

4000K (Pure White)

4000K CCT is a neutral white light that falls in the middle range between warm and cool tones. It has a bright and slightly bluish-white color appearance that is often used in commercial and industrial settings where visual acuity and productivity are important.
In commercial settings, 4000K CCT is often used in offices, hospitals, schools, and retail environments where high visual clarity and color rendering are important. It can also be used in task lighting applications such as reading areas, sewing rooms, and workshops where a neutral and bright light is required.
In residential settings, 4000K CCT can be used in areas where task lighting is required, such as kitchens, bathrooms, and workspaces. It can also be used in living areas and bedrooms where a bright and neutral light is desired.
Overall, 4000K CCT is a versatile option that provides a neutral and bright light suitable for a wide variety of applications. It's a good choice for commercial and industrial settings where visual acuity and productivity are important, as well as for residential areas where task lighting is required.
5000K (Natural White)

5000K CCT is a cool white light that provides a bright and crisp appearance. It emits a bluish-white light that is similar to natural daylight and is often used in commercial and industrial settings where high levels of visual clarity and color rendering are required.

In commercial settings, 5000K CCT is often used in offices, hospitals, schools, and retail environments where high visual acuity and productivity are important. It can also be used in outdoor lighting applications such as parking lots and street lighting where security and visibility are crucial.

In residential settings, 5000K CCT can be used in areas where bright and crisp lighting is required, such as in garages, workshops, and task lighting areas. However, it is less commonly used in living areas and bedrooms due to its cool tone, which may not create a warm and inviting ambiance.

Overall, 5000K CCT is a versatile option that provides a bright and crisp light suitable for a wide variety of commercial and industrial settings where high visual clarity and color rendering are important. It may also be used in specific residential applications where bright and cool lighting is required, but it may not be the best choice for creating a warm and cozy ambiance.