LED Light Engine vs. LED Light Module

LEDs, or light emitting diodes, act as a semiconductor which produces light once voltage is applied. LED light engines and modules use the same LED technology as traditional LED light bulbs, but they offer a unique twist on the classic design.

LED light engines and modules function as traditional light bulb substitutes. However, unlike the traditional light bulb design, LED light engines and modules consist of diodes arranged on a board.

While both LED light engines and modules consist of diodes on a circuit board, a few differences exist between them.

LED Light Engine

LED light engines often include LED modules. LED light engines function as an integrated assembly of one or more LED diodes, modules, or arrays. They contain optical, mechanical, electrical, and thermal components, including an appropriate heat sink to protect the light engine from overheating. Because LED light engines come equipped with these additional components, they typically only need input voltage to operate.

LED light engines often come equipped with an integrated driver. If no driver is included, they require an external driver to power them. MaxLite offers some LED linear light engines, like this 5.5-in 10W LED Light Engine Linear Kit, with linkable connections.

Fun fact: LEDs generate a small amount of heat. With an appropriate heat sink to dissipate the heat, LEDs produce brighter light and last longer.

Originally used in channel letters, LED light modules can now see use in outdoor lighting, undercabinet lighting, accent lighting, and other decorative lighting applications. LED modules and arrays can also come in integrated LED fixtures.

LED light engines can come as a component in an integrated fixture or retrofit old fixtures. They can see use in round or linear light sources depending on the shape of the light engine.

Shop HomElectrical to find both LED light engines and LED modules from brands like MaxLite and Satco Lighting.