UV or LED lamp? Which one to choose?

Did you know that a UV lamp and an LED lamp are not used with the same products?
Here's an article to help clarify things.

UV or LED lamp?

The difference between the two lamps is the type of light. The UV lamp uses fluorescent neon bulbs and the LED lamp uses LED lights, also known as light-emitting diodes. These two types of lights cure differently and will therefore cure different products.

So, what to choose between a UV lamp and an LED lamp?

Firstly, if you plan to use it often and for a long time, there's the option of a hybrid lamp, which allows you to cure under UV and LED depending on the products used – very practical! Otherwise, it's important to know that not everything can be cured under LED light; for example, Shellac polishes will only cure under a UV lamp or a Shellac lamp. If you plan on doing this eventually, opt for a UV lamp.

The LED lamp cures faster; the Fini-Plus, for instance, will take 2 minutes to cure under a UV lamp compared to 30 seconds under an LED lamp. Obviously, this can be a good option if you primarily use LED-compatible products.

How many watts? How much to invest?

Once you've chosen the type of lamp that suits you best, it will be time to decide how much you want to invest in your lamp and what wattage you desire. For UV lamps, you'll find options from 9W to 54W, while for LED, it varies from 3W to 18W. The higher the wattage, the faster your product will cure. Lamp prices differ based on this factor and also on features such as timers and hand space. Once you've considered these questions, you'll be ready to get your ideal lamp! In terms of prices, expect to pay between $30 and $200.

Here is a comparator for LED and UV lamps to help you choose the right lamp for the right product!

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