Battery vs. Wired Uplights: Choosing the Right Option

In the modern world of event production, venue owners, production houses, rentals and DJ setups prefer to use uplights that can overcome limitations of space, setup complexities and budgetary considerations. Product launches, DJ nights, live concerts, and stage performances can uplift their presentation with uplights.

But it is often seen that event professionals, as well as venue owners and lighting designers, struggle with choosing battery uplights or wired uplights. The selection of uplight is directly influenced by setup time, cost, speed, and precision. 

The battery uplights ensure faster deployment and mobility, while wired uplights provide the benefit of a continuous supply of power with optimal brightness levels. This guide will assist you in choosing the appropriate uplight according to the size, theme, and duration of your event. Rasha Professional, a trusted name in the stage and lighting industry, provides both categories of uplights for demanding schedules. 

Battery-Powered Uplights (Wireless)

Battery powered uplights provide flexibility to stage and lighting professionals when designing venue or event productions. So, let’s take a closer look at the major advantages of using battery uplights. 

What Are the Advantages of Battery-Powered Uplights?

1. Cable-free Setup: The main benefit of using wireless uplights is their wireless operation. These battery-powered uplights are optimal for diverse setups, allowing faster installations by eliminating the need to search for power outlets or hiring electricians. 
2. Wireless DMX/App Control: By using the wireless DMX controls, you can easily adjust color selection and dimming while streamlining live adjustments, which makes the entire process more time-efficient. 
3. Portable and Flexible Placement: Rentals and mobile DJ setups and live concerts require portable uplights that offer the benefit of amazing flexibility in placing the equipment. 
4. Long Runtimes: The battery-powered uplights work with rechargeable lithium-ion batteries provide the benefit of continuous performance for up to 20 hours per charge, as provided by Rasha’s IP65 waterproof uplights, the Core IP model.

What Should You Consider When Choosing Battery-Powered Uplights?

• Battery Charge And Runtime Limits: Opt for a model that supports long performance on a single recharge and provides optimal run time.
• Lower Lumen Output vs. Wired: It offers lower lumen output as compared to wired models, but still the output is viable to meet accent lighting needs. 
• Higher Upfront Cost: It comes with a higher upfront cost but provides ROI faster without needing labor and wiring costs.   

Wired (AC-Powered) Uplights 

Wired uplights, also termed Ac-powered fixtures, are designed for high-powered event productions where continuous runtime and high brightness are core essentials. Now, let’s take a closer look at their key benefits below.

What Are the Benefits of Wired (AC-Powered) Uplights?

• Unlimited Runtime: Since the wired uplights connect directly to a power outlet using cables instead of batteries, there is no concern about possible dimming or shutdown during the event. These uplights can also be linked with DMX cabling for synchronized control.
• Higher Brightness: When a large-scale event  like a live concert or a product launch is organized, there is a need for higher levels of brightness. The wired uplights provide thousands of lumens to cater to higher brightness levels with ease. 
• Lower Cost Per Unit: These uplights are less expensive than battery-powered models, resulting in a low cost per unit, helping rentals and production companies to buy more units to support wider coverage.  

What Are the Drawbacks of Using Wired Uplights?

Setup Time: The wired uplights require extensive cabling and the services of electricians in venue lighting to create an efficient setup that can prove time-consuming. 

Limited Placement Near Outlets: The lighting designers can experience limitations in placing these uplights, which require positioning closer to power outlets. 

Potential Trip Hazards from Cables: It is important to cover all cables and secure them to avoid possible trip hazards from improper and uncovered cabling. 

How Do Battery and Wired Uplights Compare Side by Side?

To understand the key difference in battery vs. wired uplights, the event uplighting comparison is discussed below.

The event lighting professionals opt for hybrid systems where the battery uplights support the accent lighting and wireless uplights are used for washes and broader coverage.

How Do You Choose the Right Uplights for Your Event?

Below are some key event considerations that help venue owners, event professionals, and lighting designers pick the best option between battery-powered uplights and wired uplights. 

1. Event Type: Depending on the type of event, you can choose uplights accordingly. For private events or corporate galas that require professional output, battery-powered uplights are recommended. In contrast, concerts and DJ setups can opt for wired uplights to achieve the necessary brightness for professional event lighting. 
2. Venue Setup: The indoor venues require more brightness, so opting for wired uplights is best, as power outlets are available. Uplights with an IP65 rating are ideal for outdoor settings due to their resistance to wear and tear, and battery-powered led light bars are the best option.
3. Duration: Relying on wired uplights can support continuous runtime for the entire night if the event lasts longer than 20 hours. Events under 20 hours in duration can opt for battery models. 
4. Lighting Purpose: If the lighting professionals aim to opt for accent lighting and DJ lighting, battery-operated uplights are best, and for wider washes, the wired options can prove beneficial. 
5. Aesthetic Considerations: If the event or venue requires a professional look without any cables, battery uplights are ideal. But in permanent installations, the wired uplights can be positioned with clean DMX routing and power cables in a covered setup. 

What Does Rasha Professional Offer in Uplight Solutions?

Rasha Professional’s complete range of uplights are meant for professional use in indoor and outdoor setups, varying  from small- to large-scale events. 

Battery-Powered Uplights: The battery-powered versions from Rasha Professional, such as the Core IP, last a long time in tough situations, and the wireless DMX uplight control along with RGBWA+UV LEDs helps lighting designers make striking visuals with various colors.

Wired Uplights: Wired uplights are designed for energetic events that require continuous runtime, featuring high-output LED uplights for indoor and outdoor use. These models ensure professional looks with powerful beams for permanent installations or large-scale setups.

Weatherproof Options: Many models like Core IP, Rodie IP Pro, Rodie IP65, and Par Guard Pro  feature IP65 ratings for rain and dust resistance. The wireless DMX model Core IP offers up to 20 hours of runtime, and other models also support good runtime. 

Accessories: We provide accessories like wireless transmitters, power/data cables, and DMX controllers that help integrate wired and wireless fixtures into a single system. 

Which Uplight Should You Choose?

To sum up, battery-powered LED uplights provide flexibility and faster setups in outdoor events, and wired uplights offer high brightness with continuous output. Depending on the event, venue size, and budget factors, choose from Rasha Professional’s range of uplights meant for rugged and demanding indoor and outdoor setups.

Explore Rasha Professional’s complete range of uplights and select one that aligns with your business needs. Call us today!