In this blog we review some of our best downlights and go into detail about why you should and shouldn't buy them.
We will be looking at some of our best value led downlights, comparing their specs, price, the brand and overall quality, tailored to New Zealand customers.
We will also touch on some of the best premium downlights (if you're after supreme performance and design, these ones are for you).
But first, we need to talk about some of the things you should be looking out for before purchasing in New Zealand.
When buying LED downlights, people often don't realise the impact they can have on their space in terms of creating atmosphere and mood. Cheaper lights may seem like a good option, but they can produce a lot of glare which can be uncomfortable for your eyes and can also flood the room with too much light, making the atmosphere feel lifeless.
Only Buy From Quality Brands Backed with Warranty
This is possibly the most important thing to take note of. There are 1000's of different downlights on the market today, with many being cheap imports. It's important to only buy from leading brands that back their products with warranty. That way, in the unfortunate event your downlight fails, you know you are covered with the manufacturers warranty.
💡 Note:
Some downlights on our list come with a 5 year warranty with most of the others coming with a 3 year warranty. If you decide to buy downlights from this list, you can be positive that you are buying from a quality manufacturer that has the confidence in their products to back them with up to a 5 year warranty.
Choose Something That's Low Glare
We highly recommend our NZ customers choose a low glare downlight with the light source recessed in the fitting. This will produce an anti-glare light output. Some downlights have the light source so far back into the fitting that it can be hard to see the light, even when standing right underneath of it. This design will output an impressive pool of light around the area. Having small pools of light will create a greater mood than having an area flooded with light.
2 downlights side by side displaying the negative affects of glare.
Consider A High CRI
The next big selling point is to have lighting with a high CRI. This will allow all objects lit to expose their true colours and not dull colours. Most of ours will have a CRI of 75, whilst higher quality lights will be 85+. Below is a diagram illustrating how CRI works.
An example of how low and high CRI exposes colours in objects.
The Lighting Outlet's Best 10 LED Downlights NZ
Our list of best led downlights is in no particular order, ranking downlights through 1 to 10 is impossible as some may not be suitable for certain applications. We've been selling downlights for years and we've seen many downlight brands come and go. The below list reviews not only some of the best downlights we've seen but also some of the best downlight manufacturers that have built their reputations from years in the industry.
This LED downlight is from Australia's leading lighting wholesaler Havit Lighting, they have met the crazy low margin downlight market but with a difference, Havit has not compromised on the quality.
Havit Lighting has one of the best brand reputations in the industry with the highest quality lighting, with the best before and after-sale service. Every supplier nowadays will save on the cost by using cheap materials like plastic or using low quality LED chips and drivers.
Full Aluminium Body
This downlight has a full aluminium body instead of plastic, this increases the heat dissipation and runs the downlight at a much lower temperature which means the LED's will not burn out and last much longer.
90+ CRI
This downlight has a CRI 90+. Most downlights these days will have a CRI of 80 or under. A high CRI will portray the colours to their truest form and not dull. Typically downlights with this high CRI will be at least $40 each.
120 Degree Beam Angle
The HV5527T model has a 120 degree beam angle. Having a larger beam angle generally means you can light a larger area with fewer downlights.
IC4 Rated
When a downlight is IC4 rated it means insulation can be installed straight over the top of the downlight due to it's low heat.
Tri-Colour Technology
This Havit downlight has the ability to have 3 different colour temperatures all from a flick of switch on the back. (Warm White 3000K, Cool White 4000K or Daylight 5500K).
Additional
It's safe to say, this downlight is probably the best value downlight on the market today. You won't find a downlight backed by a 5 year warranty, 90+ CRI and a full aluminium body for under $30 - this one comes in at $25.99. You can view more on the product below.
It is very hard to choose which LED downlight to buy these days with such an extensive range on the market. However, The Lighting Outlet NZ can confidently say Blitz and Titan are one of our best to date, as they have the highest lumen output for this price range.
Colour Temperature Changing Switch (3000k, 4000k and 5000k)
Some other great features include their colour changing temperature switch (located on the back), great for entertaining or matching newly painted lounge room walls.
>80 CRI (Colour Rendering Index)
A CRI of around 80 is generally considered pretty standard for downlights these days. This won’t matter for some people, although, if CRI matters to you than there are better options for the price.
High Lumen Output
Whilst the majority of companies compromise, offering less wattage for the same price, the Blitz and Titan offer value for brightness.
Aluminium Fascia with Polycarbonate Body
These downlights also have a polycarbonate body, meaning you don’t have to worry about rust or corrosion.
Warranty
Martec back the Blitz and Titan with a 3 year replacement warranty, although it’s not the longest warranty offered on our list, It’s still a high warranty for the lighting industry.
Design & Style
Similar to the previous downlight, this model also comes in a flush face(The Blitz) and a recessed face(The Titan). We recommend choosing the Titan model to our customers because they give off less glare and yet still throw a wide angle of 100 degrees.
Additional
Finally, these downlights life expectancy is over 50,000, equivalent to over 10 years, while also being able to fully dim down to 10%. Overall, a great, bright LED downlight unit with a very low failure rate.
The RESILED Gimble LED Downlight by Trend Lighting.
Trend lighting is going to be heavily featured in this list because when it comes to high quality, premium downlights, they are purely in a league of their own. This downlight is engineered for value. The price of this downlight is well priced for what you get out of it.
Full Aluminium Body
This downlight is made in full of aluminium which helps the heat dissipation considerably as to plastic competitors.
High 90+ CRI (Colour Rendering Index)
The colour rendering index of this downlight is great with a CRI 90+ which will portray all your homes textures and colours to their truest form. This is a very underrated feature that you will see more people look to and understand over the next couple of years.
Warranty
This downlight ticks all the boxes with great value, style, material, brand and backed with a 5 year warranty. This is why this downlight has been one of our most popular for over 5 years.
Additional
This downlight has a 90mm cut out and is a similar style which most people are familiar with the gimbal adjustable face. The driver is separate which is always better for longer lasting downlight with a flex and plug for DIY install if plug bases have been installed.
The only downside to this downlight is that you will have to choose what colour temperature you want at time of purchase as these do not have a CCT switch.
The 20716/05 RGBW WIFI LED Downlight by Brilliant Lighting .
Brilliant Lighting have done so well with their smart range, they have over 100 products which you can use all throughout your home and having them all controlled in one place just makes it so easy to use and maintain.
Smart Phone Control
This LED downlight is not your typical fixture but it allows so much flexibility with the colour output as you have over 16 million colours at your disposal all from your phone when using the Brilliant Lighting App.
The integration is very simple to set up and you can set times of the day to switch them on by themselves which makes it great for when you’re away from extended periods.
Alexa hubs or Google Home Enabled
Control from anywhere via app or voice control using Alexa hubs or Google Home devices.
Advanced Colour Changing Control (16 million colour options)
Not only do you have access to all 16 million colours and the RGB colour spectrum but you have your traditional colours such as warm white, cool white and daylight. You can select the perfect kelvin for your mood at anytime, if you are having people over put a bright white light to get that party started or if you are looking to unwind and relax put down to soothing 2100k extra warm candle like light.
Multiple Dimming Options
This light is fully dimmable either on the wall or through the app and runs at 800 lumens.
5 Year Warranty
Brilliant Lighting has backed this smart downlight with a 5 year warranty. Having such a large warranty gives the buyer extra piece of mind.
Additional
The list of features of this LED smart downlight goes on and on click the link below and view all of this light's great features. When it comes to smart lighting, make the extra investment and buy from brands which have done it right, Brilliant Lighting are the best in Australia for smart lighting, they have done a superb job with the simple set up and easy to use app.
The Nella Surface Mounted LED Downlights by Havit Lighting.
This downlight not only offers great performance, but gives a great modern architectural look. It is guaranteed to be a feature that visitors are sure to comment on for its sleek appearance and design.
Surface Mounted
This light is very handy for concrete ceilings, as well as convenient for avoid cutting holes in your roof, which may be difficult to replace with the same size later on.
120 Degree Beam Angle
The Nellas come with a 120 degree beam angle, one of the largest beam angles on our list. Having a larger beam angle generally means you can light a larger area with fewer lights.
Tri-Colour Technology
This Havit downlight is also backed with Havit’s Tri-Colour Technology which has the ability to have 3 different colour temperatures all from a flick of switch on the back.
>80 CRI (Colour Rendering Index)
Definitely not the highest CRI on our list of top 10 downlights. The CRI on the Nellas come in at around 80 but this is generally considered standard for downlights these days.
Warranty
Although not the best on our list, this downlight is backed with 2 years warranty which is actually pretty decent for a surface mounted downlight.
Design & Style
These downlights also can be purchased with an extension so that you can double the height and give more of a statement. It comes in black and white, as well as 3 different sizes (8w, 12w & 18w) so you can have the perfect size throughout each room of your home including outdoors.
Additional
The Nella downlights light source is recessed at the back of the fitting with a frosted face, allowing very little glare to produce from the light output. They are also dimmable, so you don't have to worry about being too bright as with a dimmer you can choose the perfect brightness and mood.
The Mini Trim II LED Round Gimbal Downlight by Brilliant.
This C.O.B (Chip on Board) LED light is designed to generate a clear, crisp light with its diamond lens optics that minimise multiple shadows. It can be switched between Warm White (3000K), Cool White (4200K) and Daylight (6500K) and is made with a diecast aluminium construction with a white or black powdercoated finish.
5 Year Warranty
This product is backed by a 5-year warranty, so you can be sure that you are investing in a product that is built to last.
Long lasting up to 30,000 hours/span>
You can count on this product to provide you with years of reliable service with its long-lasting up to 30,000 hours.
Diecast aluminium construction
The diecast aluminium construction of this product is designed to be durable and robust, giving you peace of mind that it will stand the test of time.
Tri-colour temperature
This product offers a unique Tri-Colour technology which enables you to choose between three different colour temperatures with the flick of a switch.
Gimbal head downlight
The gimbal head downlight of this product is adjustable and can be directed to the exact spot you want to light up, making it an ideal choice for both ambient or task lighting.
Additional
The Mini Trim by Brilliant lighting is perfect for all interior residential rooms and comes with a flexible plug and external dimmable LED driver. It is long lasting up to 30,000 hours and is backed by a 5 year warranty.
The LED Smart Tri-CCT + RGB Recessed Dimmable Downlight by CLA
This LED Downlight also offers smart lighting functions, such as the ability to dim, change the colour temperature, and control the light remotely via a smartphone app or compatible voice controlled device such as Amazon Alexa, Google Home or Tuya Powered apps.
Aluminium Heatsink
Built to last! It features an aluminium heatsink which provides excellent heat dissipation and helps to extend the lifespan of the product.
Compatible with amazon alexa & google home
This product is compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home and other smart home devices, allowing you to control your lighting from the convenience of your phone or voice command.
RGB - Up to 14 Million Colours
Let there be light! CLA have really stepped it up in the smart lighting range with their Tuneable RGB colour spectrum, allowing you to choose from up to 14 million colours to create the perfect ambience in your home.
Works with Any 2.4GHz Enabled WiFi Network
This product can be easily connected to any 2.4GHz enabled WiFi network, making it easy to control your lighting from anywhere in the world.
Automate Your Home Lighting
Set and forget! This downlight allows you to create schedules and timing, so you can automate your home, saving you time and energy.
Good CRI of >80
With a Colour Rendering Index (CRI) of over 80, you can be sure that the colours in your home will look true.
Additional
This smart downlight is perfect for someone looking to add smart lighting features into their home. It's suitable for all indoor applications while also providing energy-efficient lighting.
The Luxor LED Gimbal Downlight CCT (3000k, 4200k, 6500k) 10w in White
This LED downlight is both budget-conscious and stylish with its diecast aluminum construction, white powder coated finish, and COB LED technology for superior light output
Tri-colour temperature
This CCT downlight features tri-colour temperature, allowing you to adjust the colour temperature of the light depending on your needs.
Diecast aluminium construction
This downlight is constructed from diecast aluminium, providing a durable and robust construction.
Long lasting up to 30,000 hours
Designed to last up to 30,000 hours, providing you with a long-lasting and reliable light source.
Gimbal head downlight
Featuring a gimbal head downlight, allowing you to adjust the angle of the light to suit your needs.
CRI: >80
This downlight from Briliant has a CRI of >80, providing you with a clear and accurate colour rendition.
COB LED technology
This COB LED Downlight uses COB LED technology, providing a bright and efficient light source.
Additional
It has a CCT switchable between warm white (3000K), cool white (4200K) and daylight (6500K) that is rated for IC-4 abutted and covered usage to allow for covering with thermal insulation. It is dimmable and has a long lifespan of up to 30,000 hours. It also comes with a 3-year warranty for added peace of mind..
The The Comet Centre Tilt LED Downlight 10w CCT - CLA Lighting
This LED downlight offers premium lighting performance whilst having a 5-year domestic warranty for added peace of mind.
Aluminium Body
Another durable offering from CLA Lighting, featuring a strong and durable aluminium body, ensuring that it remains stable and secure in any environment.
Constant Current LED Driver
The Constant Current LED Driver will provide a consistent light output for years to come, providing a reliable source of illumination.
IC-4 & IC-F Rated
This product is rated IC-4 & IC-F, meaning it is suitable for use in damp and wet environments and is safe to use.
Gimbal Head Downlight
The Gimbal Head Downlight allows you to direct the light beam to any area, making it a versatile and effective lighting solution.
COB LED Technology
Featuring the latest in COB LED techynology, providing the best in energy efficiency and illumination.
Additional
This LED downlight offers great performance, a sleek contemporary design, and a budget-friendly price.
Featuring easy-to-adjust tricolour settings and a removable driver, this downlight offers superior energy efficiency and convenience.
5 years warranty
This LED downlight from Eurotech comes with a 5 year warranty, giving you peace of mind that your purchase will be covered if something were to go wrong.
Aluminium body
The aluminium body of this LED downlight is strong and durable, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor use.
Up to 90 CRI
This LED downlight from Eurotech has a colour rendering index of up to 90, providing you with a natural and accurate colour appearance.
IP44 Rated
This LED downlight is IP44 rated, meaning it is protected against dust ingress and splashing water, making it suitable for use in a variety of environments.
54,000 hours lifespan
This LED downlight has a long lifespan of 54,000 hours, meaning you won't have to worry about replacing it anytime soon.
Tricolour Technology
The tricolour technology of this LED downlight provides you with the ability to adjust the colour temperature, allowing you to create the perfect ambience.
Additional
With its high quality construction, impressive light output and long lifespan, this LED downlight is perfect for residential and commercial installations.
We understand choosing the right downlight can be confusing. There are many different things to consider. If you need any help or advice before you purchase, don't hesitate to contact us.
If you'd like to browse our entire range of LED downlights click the button below to be taken to our LED Downlight collection page.
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