Printed LED panels vs. white LED panels: what’s the difference?

This is the question that comes up most often during the purchasing phase: does a printed panel really illuminate just as well as a standard white panel? And does the print hold up over time? Technical answers, without the aesthetics.

What is identical between a standard panel and a printed panel

• Structure: aluminum frame, integrated LED driver, standard 220V connection
• Size: 60x60 cm, compatible with T-bar suspended ceilings
• Installation: clip-in or surface-mounted, tool-free, in less than 15 minutes
• Warranty: 3 years across the entire Sunshine Panel range
• Lifespan: 50,000 hours (L70)

The only element that changes is the diffuser. Plain opal white for the standard panel, high-definition UV-printed visual for the decorative panel.

What differs: luminous flux

Why the printed panel provides slightly less light

UV printing deposits a layer of ink on the PMMA. This layer absorbs part of the luminous flux. Absorption depends on the visual’s color density: a light blue sky absorbs less than a dark forest. In practice, the loss is 10 to 15% of the total flux.

Concrete figures for Sunshine Panel

• Standard panel 40 W: 4,000 lm
• Bright Sky Panel 40 W: 3,600 lm
• Forest Panel 40 W: 3,200 lm (denser visual)

In both cases, the EN 12464-1 standards for offices (500 lux) remain achievable with a standard layout plan.

Print durability

UV printing technology on PMMA

UV printing polymerizes directly onto the PMMA diffuser. It does not peel, yellow, or flake under the heat generated by the panel (well below 40°C on the diffuser). It is the same technology used for outdoor illuminated signs, designed to last.

UV resistance

Unlike inkjet printing, UV printing is not photosensitive to the panel’s own light. LED wavelengths (visible light) do not degrade UV inks. The color remains stable throughout the product’s lifespan.

Price and value for money

Criterion	Standard panel	Decorative panel
Unit price	Lower	+30 to 50%
Luminous flux	4,000 lm	3,200 to 3,600 lm
Visual impact	Neutral	Differentiating
Lifespan	50 000 h	50 000 h
Installation	Identical	Identical

When should you choose a standard panel?

• Technical areas, storage rooms, parking areas, pure performance
• Tight budget with a large area to illuminate
• Spaces where lighting is secondary (storage room, cellar, utility room)

When should you choose a printed decorative panel?

• Offices, open-plan spaces, meeting rooms, improve the work experience
• Medical practices, reduce patient anxiety
• Retail stores, restaurants, hotels, create a visual identity
• Individuals, transform a windowless space (hallway, bathroom, office)

FAQ

Does a printed LED panel provide as much light as a white panel?

No, a printed LED panel generally produces 10 to 15% less light output than a white panel of the same wattage because of the light absorption of the printed design. For Sunshine Panel, a printed 40 W panel produces approximately 3,200 to 3,600 lm, compared with 4,000 lm for a white panel. This remains compliant with EN 12464-1 standards for offices and waiting rooms.

How long does printing on an LED panel last?

UV printing on a PMMA diffuser is permanent and does not deteriorate over time or with lighting heat. Sunshine Panel guarantees color fidelity throughout the panel’s lifespan (50,000 hours, L70). No photodegradation has been observed on installations in place for more than 3 years.

Can you order a panel with your own design?

Yes, Sunshine Panel offers made-to-order customization. You provide your image file (minimum 300 DPI at print size, i.e. 720x720 pixels for 60x60 cm), and the panel is printed in France within 5 to 7 business days. Ideal for signage, corporate décor, or merchandising projects.

Selection: Our favorites, the 4 most requested designs