Test result preview
Manufacturer’s product description
The LED Profile U-12 SLIM from INNOVATE is aimed at users who are looking for a solution for indirect lighting applications in living and working areas. It is designed for standard LED strips with a width of up to 11 millimeters and is suitable for use in kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, closets, hallways, and other areas. The anodized aluminum profile serves not only as a mounting bracket but also as a heat sink. This dissipates heat and thus contributes to a longer service life for the LED strips. The included milky diffuser ensures even light distribution and reduces visible light spots and glare.
In testing, the profile impressed with its precise fit and sturdy construction. LED strips can be inserted precisely, the diffuser sits firmly in the profile and produces a homogeneous light pattern. The simple, silver-colored look is understated and blends inconspicuously into different room concepts. The two-meter-long profile can be shortened individually and thus flexibly adapted to different lighting projects, although tools are required for this.
There is room for improvement, particularly in terms of ease of installation. Inserting the diffuser requires some force, and shortening the rail requires manual skill and suitable tools. In addition, the manufacturer does not provide any specific information on the sustainability of the product.
Overall, the LED aluminum profile is a solid, functional product suitable for everyday use that provides a professional basis for indirect LED lighting. It is particularly suitable for users who value a clean look, even light distribution, and a durable solution.
Advantages
- Good fit
- Even light distribution
- Reduction of glare
- Smooth surfaces facilitate cleaning
Disadvantages
- Insertion requires comparatively high force
- Additional tools required for cutting
First impression
Packaging and contents
Here, we take a closer look at the packaging. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor. In addition, adequate protection of the product must of course be ensured. Is the contents of the packaging complete and does the manufacturer make it as easy as possible for me to use the product straight away?
Here, we take a closer look at the packaging. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor. In addition, adequate protection of the product must of course be ensured. Is the packaging complete and does the manufacturer make it as easy as possible for me to use the product straight away?
show moreCriterion
Comment
Score achieved*
Product protection
Cardboard is sturdy, product adequately protected
Points
Sustainability of packaging
Unnecessary packaging has been avoided; although the plastic film protects the product components, an environmentally friendly alternative would be desirable
Points
Package contents & scope
Complete
Points
Instructions
Video explanation is available online.
Points
TOTAL
95
Points
Weighting: 20%
*The maximum number of points is 100
The packaging made a generally neat and functional impression in the test. The product was delivered in a two-meter-long cardboard tube . This reliably protects the aluminum profile from kinks and mechanical damage during transport. The tube itself is made of sturdy cardboard and is well suited to this product shape. Inside the tube, the individual components were packed separately from each other. Both the aluminum profile and the milky diffuser were wrapped in plastic film. This protective packaging serves its purpose, especially for the diffuser, which is effectively protected from scratches and other damage to the surface. No transport damage was found during the test. In addition, a video is available online that shows the step-by-step assembly and installation of the LED rail.
The only criticism is the use of plastic packaging inside. Although functional, this could be replaced by alternative materials from an ecological point of view. Overall, the packaging conveys a clean, functional impression that is appropriate for the product.
First time in hand
Product workmanship and appearance
Before we move on to the practical test, we take a close look at the workmanship of the products. How high-quality are the materials used? Are the feel and appearance satisfactory?
Before putting it to the practical test, we take a close look at the workmanship of the products. How high-quality are the materials used? Are the feel and appearance satisfactory?
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Comment
Score achieved*
Visual appearance
Appealing design
Points
Workmanship
Very good workmanship
Points
Stability
Very stable
Points
Product sustainability
No information provided, but heat sink contributes to longer service life
Points
OVERALL
95
Points
Weighting: 20%
*The maximum number of points is 100
Even when unpacking, the aluminum profile makes a good and functional first impression. Despite its slim design, it appears high-quality and conveys a certain material strength without appearing massive or oversized. The workmanship is clean and neat in the test. The surfaces are evenly finished, and the edges and transitions appear cleanly deburred, with no sharp spots or visible production defects. The milky diffuser fits perfectly into the profile and gives a stable impression. Overall, the quality of workmanship indicates that the product is suitably manufactured for its intended use. In terms of stability, the aluminum profile appears to be dimensionally stable and sufficiently robust. It cannot be bent easily and seems to be suitable for permanent installation on furniture, walls, or ceilings. The diffuser sits securely in the profile and shows no play when mounted. The manufacturer does not provide any specific information on the sustainability of the product. However, the aluminum profile’s function as a heat sink for LED strips is a positive feature. The improved heat dissipation can extend the service life of the LEDs, which indirectly contributes to a more resource-efficient use.
This is what our practical test revealed
Does the manufacturer deliver on its advertising promises?
Our practical test is the most relevant and therefore has the highest weighting. Here, the product has to undergo a wide range of criteria and tests. We check the functions and product promises of the test item.
Our practical test is the most relevant and therefore carries the most weight. Here, the product must undergo a wide range of criteria and tests. We check the functions and product promises of the test item.
show moreCriterion
Comment
Score achieved*
Fit of the LED strips in the aluminum rail
Very good fit, secure and firm
Points
Easy to insert the diffuser
Good fit, requires some effort
Points
Evenness of light distribution through the diffuser
Harmonious and even light pattern
Points
Adaptability to different length requirements
Requires manual dexterity and extra tools
Points
Cleaning of the aluminum rail and diffuser
Easy and quick cleaning, protects the LED strips
Points
TOTAL
94
Points
Weighting: 45%
*The maximum score is 100 points
The LED aluminum profile from INNOVATE impressed in practical tests with its pleasant light and suitability for everyday use. The LED strips fit very well into the rail. Standard LED strips with a width of up to 11 millimeters can be glued in place precisely and sit securely in the profile without slipping. In addition, the anodized aluminum acts as a heat sink, reliably dissipating any heat generated, which can have a positive effect on the service life of the LEDs used. The lighting effect was impressive in the test. The milky diffuser ensures even light distribution, significantly reducing individual light points. The light is softly diffused, minimizing glare and creating a harmonious, even light pattern . This makes the profile particularly suitable for indirect lighting solutions. However, the system is not completely tool-free to use . Inserting the diffuser requires considerable effort, as it has to be clicked firmly into the profile. A certain amount of dexterity is required , especially for overhead installations. In principle, it is possible to adjust the profile to different length requirements, but this requires manual skill . The two-meter rail can only be shortened with a metal saw and requires careful work to achieve straight cut edges. In terms of maintenance, however, the LED profile is thoroughly impressive. Both the surface and the diffuser are easy to clean thanks to their smooth structure. Dust and dirt can be removed easily, while the LED strips remain well protected when installed.
Overall, the track proved to be a robust and functional product in practical testing. Despite the somewhat stiff click system on the diffuser and the tools required for cutting, it offers a high-quality and reliable solution for indirect lighting and left a predominantly positive impression in the categories tested.
Test plan
You can find detailed information about the evaluation criteria for the practical part of the test and the scoring system here. If you are also interested in the evaluation of our other test criteria, please read our document on the evaluation process.
Price/performance
Finally, we examine how the product compares to the competition. Can it compete with the competition in terms of price and quality? Would we generally recommend it for purchase?
Finally, we examine how the product compares to the competition. Can it compete with the competition in terms of price and quality? Would we generally recommend it for purchase?
show moreCriterion
Comment
Points achieved*
Price/performance ratio
Very good performance in the lower price segment
Points
TOTAL
90
Points
Weighting: 15%
*The maximum score is 100 points
Comparable LED aluminum profiles are priced at up to €15.00 online. Particularly affordable models are available from as little as €6.66. The LED aluminum profile from INNOVATE is in the lower price segment at €9.19. The price/performance ratio is rated as very good overall. This rating takes into account both the solid quality and functionality of the profile and the comparatively low price, resulting in a very good ratio.
Overall result
Weight
Score achieved*
1. Packaging & contents
20
Points
2. Product processing & appearance
20
Points
3. Practical test
45
Points
4. Price/performance ratio
15
Points
TOTAL
Points
*The maximum score is 100 points
