Quick answer: Use LED strips for an even wash along a shelf edge. Use puck lights to spotlight a centrepiece. Many cabinets mix both. Prefer diffuse light and avoid aiming straight into glossy varnish.
For the full lighting walkthrough, see LED lighting for miniature displays. That older page is queued for IP cleanup; this page stays tightly on the strips-versus-pucks question.
Comparison
| LED strips | Puck lights | |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Even along an edge | Pooled spotlight |
| Best for | Full shelves of infantry | Hero models |
| Glare risk | Lower if diffused | Higher if aimed at gloss |
| Install | Tape along shelf lip | Stick or clip per spot |
Battery and USB options avoid mains wiring — lighting without DIY wiring. Check the lamp’s own specification for CRI and colour temperature; we do not invent lab figures here.
Prefer diffuse light and one colour temperature per cabinet. We do not invent lux or CRI figures — check the lamp specification when you buy. USB or battery options avoid mains wiring for rented shelves.
FAQ
Can I mix strips and pucks?
Yes — strips for wash, pucks for the centrepiece.
Warm or cool white?
Pick one colour temperature per cabinet and keep it consistent.
Worth lighting open stands?
Yes — softer side or front light helps a lot.