What Are the Types of Dimming? A Complete Guide for Modern Lighting Systems

In the world of lighting, dimming is more than just reducing brightness—it's about control, ambiance, energy savings, and smart functionality. Whether you're illuminating a cozy living room or orchestrating a high-energy event, the right dimming method makes all the difference.

Let’s explore the major types of dimming technologies used today, their working principles, and where you’ll typically find them in action.

1. PWM Dimming (Pulse Width Modulation)

How it works : PWM dimming rapidly switches the LED on and off at a high frequency. The perceived brightness changes based on the width of the “on” pulse—longer pulses = brighter light.

Ideal for : Applications that need precise color mixing and smooth dimming.

Example : RGB strip lights with phase wave modulation—common in decorative lighting where vibrant color control is essential.

2. Phase Dimming (Triac/Phase-cut/Leading Edge/Trailing Edge)

How it works : This method chops the AC waveform to reduce power to the light. There are two main types:

• Leading Edge (Triac) : Cuts the start of the AC waveform.

• Trailing Edge : Cuts the end—better for LED compatibility.

Ideal for : Traditional residential dimmers and lower-wattage commercial installations.

Example : COB downlights or LED strips connected in a direct phase loop, commonly used for up to 150W loads without needing additional wiring.

3. 1-10V Dimming / Analog Dimming

How it works : A simple control voltage (between 1V and 10V) tells the driver how much to dim. 1V = minimum brightness, 10V = full brightness.

Ideal for : Commercial and industrial setups needing reliable, linear dimming control.

Example : COB lights or LED strips running on a 1-10V dimmable driver. You can connect loads up to 500W via Cat6 looping—great for larger spaces like offices or retail stores.

4. Smart Dimming

How it works : Uses wireless protocols like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or RF to control lights via apps or smart assistants. No special wiring needed—just a smart-compatible driver and a smartphone.

Ideal for : Smart homes or retrofitting existing setups without rewiring.

Example : Tuya-based or BLE-enabled drivers for RGB, strip, or COB lights. Controlled via the SmartLife app, often with a Wi-Fi gateway or RF remote.

5. DALI Dimming (Digital Addressable Lighting Interface)

How it works : A digital signal controls each light individually or in groups, allowing precise, bi-directional control. Dimming is smooth and consistent from 0–100%.

Ideal for : Large commercial buildings, smart offices, or any project requiring automation and zoned control.

Example : Any type of light with a DALI-compatible driver, using Cat6 looping to connect each fixture. Usually implemented with guidance from a lighting or automation consultant.

6. DMX Dimming (Digital Multiplex)

How it works : Originally developed for stage lighting, DMX allows complex lighting effects, syncing with music and scenes.

Ideal for : Theatrical performances, events, clubs, or large-scale installations where color and timing are everything.

Example : Dynamic, color-changing lights pre-programmed for events—reacting to music, mood, and timing in real time.