What Is Magnetic Track Light?

Magnetic track lights are the talk of the town because of their elegant design and chic look. The magnet attachments completely eradicate the need for wires and make replacing the entire lighting fixture a piece of cake. In this guide, we cover the details of these contemporary magnetic track lights, including their types, price, and much more.

Brief Overview

Magnetic track lights are moveable track lights on magnetic rails. You can attach multiple types of lighting fixtures as they are extremely easy to insert and detach without any tools. 

Magnetic track lights give a chic and minimalistic look like no other, making them the go-to choice in modern-day lighting. Designers prefer these lights because there is minimal wiring involved, plus one can easily change the entire light fixture, like from spotlights to pendant lights, in a minute. Such a feat was impossible with traditional lights as it requires proper electrical work and planning.

Most LED bulbs are present inside these fixtures and feature dimming ability, remote control, smart app controls, and color temperature control. 

They mostly come in 24V or 40V voltage ratings, which are energy-efficient. Magnetic track lights can be installed in the false ceiling or the surface. However, they’re comparatively pricier than traditional track lights. 

How Do Magnetic Track Lights Work?

The best way to understand how the magnetic track light system works is by discussing each module separately. 

Magnetic Track Rail

The rail comes in different profile shapes, sizes, and mounting options. Basically, the light fixture can slide forward and backward in it without breaking any connection. 

The clip-on magnet inside the rail holds the fixture and a lock for extra security. The rails are mostly black and are usually one or three meters long. You can adjust the length and change the direction of the rails using connectors. These are made with aluminum or steel. 

Circuit Strips 

The circuit strip inside the magnetic rail powers the lights, making it wireless. You can choose between brass or copper strips. The material variation determines the lighting system's quality and overall cost. 

Magnetic Light Fixture

The third component is the light fixture, which is completely detachable, making it a versatile option for stylish design. You can find almost all types of light fixtures in the track lighting system. Some popular examples are downlights, floodlights, recessed and pendant lights. Mostly available in black and white color. 

Popular Types of Magnetic Track Lights 

Magnetic track light systems come in various varieties compared to traditional track lighting. We will discuss different railing systems and popular light fixtures available in such systems.

1. Magnetic Track Rails 

Magnetic track profiles come in four mounting options. Recessed tracks are much better for newer homes as they can be installed during construction. Otherwise, surface-mounted and hanging track lights are your best option. 

We don’t recommend externally recessed or plaster-mounted magnetic track lights as they can crack the false ceiling during fixture change due to stress caused by frequent pulling and pushing action.  

2. Magnetic Light Fixtures 

The popular LED magnetic light fixtures in the market right now are as follows. 

• Magnetic Spotlights 

• Magnetic Linear Floodlights 

• Magnetic Grille Light 

• Magnetic Pendant Lights 

• Magnetic Recessed Linear Lights

• Magnetic Gimbal Heads (3 degrees of freedom)

• Magnetic Linear LED Lights

These are available with smart controls, different color temperatures, and dimming ability. You can find different power ratings, but typically, they operate on 40 V drivers. So they’re pretty safe to replace even when the power is ON. 

3. Magnetic Track Light Prices

Magnetic track lights, just like any other lighting system, come in different varieties. The magnetic rails are available at $12 to $15 per meter, and the light fixtures fall within the range of $7 to $12 per piece. However, the price may vary depending on the company, area of purchase, and the type of material used.

Typically, the system built with stainless steel and copper circuit strips is the most durable and expensive one. Magnetic track lights offer premium design and decor, making them pricier than traditional options.

Benefits of Magnetic Track Lights

Here are the three fascinating benefits of installing magnetic lighting track in residential and commercial places. 

Multiple Ceiling Light Options 

Magnetic LED lights are plug-and-play fixtures with a variety of options available. Amazingly, you can install different types of light fixtures on the same rail without any tools or excessive effort. The option to change the entire lighting system on a whim is a major benefit of this system. 

Minimalistic and Chic Design 

With recessed magnetic rails, the overall footprint of such lighting is minimal. Additionally, no wires are involved, making room for creative DIY lighting ideas and stylish designs. 

Energy Efficient 

Magnetic led light fixtures are LED-based low-voltage systems that provide high-quality and bright lighting without consuming much power. Such high energy efficiency makes magnetic track lights truly a remarkable option. 

5 Things You Must Avoid While Installing Magnetic Track Lighting

Once you’ve decided to install magnetic tracks, there are a few things to consider for the best possible lighting design.

1.   Mounting on False Ceilings 

Although magnetic tracks can be mounted on false ceilings, it’s best practice to avoid such installation. These lights can get heavy, and the plaster of paris (POP) or gypsum used in false ceilings isn’t sturdy enough. We recommend installing recessed magnetic track lights or surface-mounted ones. 

2. Thickness of Magnetic Tracks

The magnetic track should have a cross-sectional thickness of at least 2 mm. There are cheaper ones (<2 mm) in the market, but they are flimsy and bend easily, restricting the sliding of track lights.

3. Copper strips Vs. Brass Strips

Always buy magnetic track lights with copper strips, which are corrosion-resistant and more efficient conductors. Although, such tracks are pricier than brass ones. 

4. Distance from Wall

Magnetic track lights should be installed at least half a meter (1.6 ft) away from the nearest wall. Any closer, and the light beam will get obstructed by the wall.

5. Less is More 

It's tempting to add many light fixtures to the magnetic tracks as it's so easy to do, but they are designed for a minimalist and modern ambiance, which can only be achieved using a lesser number of luminaires.

Applications of Magnetic Track Lighting

Magnetic track lights can be used for any commercial and residential use. However, they are most suitable for living rooms, drawing rooms, halls, and conference rooms.

They can also replace traditional task lighting in kitchens, workshops, or similar working areas. Commercially, it can be used to highlight features in art galleries or showcase products in shops. 

FAQs:

What Is the Difference Between Normal and Magnetic Track Light?

Magnetic track lights are an upgrade to the normal track lighting system. They are much more efficient and versatile than conventional LED track lighting. The table below will help you understand the difference.

What Are the Advantages of Magnetic Track Lights?

Magnetic track light offer many advantages over conventional linear lamp, such as:

• Easy Installation: Quick and tool-free attachment with magnets.

• Flexible Adjustability: Fixtures can be easily moved and repositioned along the track.

• Sleek Aesthetics: Provides a modern and clean appearance.

• Versatile Applications: Ideal for dynamic or changing lighting setups.

• Convenient Maintenance: Simplifies bulb replacements or adjustments.

What Are the Cons of Magnetic Track Lighting?

Magnetic track lights have many advantages, but like everything in existence, there are some cons to consider:

• Limited Weight Capacity: Magnetic track systems can get a bit heavy, restricting the types of fixtures that can be used.

• Higher Initial Cost: Magnetic track lighting systems come with a higher upfront cost compared to traditional options.

• Limited Compatibility: Existing fixtures may not be compatible with magnetic tracks, requiring additional investments.

Final Thoughts 

We've covered all the magnetic track lighting system basics that will help you set up your lighting project. These lights are the pinnacle of innovation and will improve in design and performance over time. There is also an opportunity for lighting business owners as these track lights are trending among people.

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Benefit from our market insight, personalized service, and competitive pricing. Whether you require indoor, outdoor, or commercial magnetic track lights – Risun has you covered. 

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