Backlit LED Panels

Why contractors pick backlit: higher lumens per watt, no light guide plate to yellow over time, and usually a lower price. The trade off is a slightly deeper housing, which does not matter in a standard drop ceiling grid.

Backlit panels here come in 2x2, 2x4 and 1x4 with selectable wattage and color temperature. For the full range of edge lit and backlit options, see all LED flat panel lights, or read backlit vs edge lit LED panels.

Are backlit LED panels brighter than edge lit panels?

Backlit panels usually deliver more lumens per watt because the light shines straight through the diffuser without a light guide plate.

Do backlit LED panels fit a standard drop ceiling?

Yes. They are slightly deeper than edge lit panels, but they lay into standard 2x2, 2x4 and 1x4 grid openings.

Why do some edge lit panels turn yellow?

Edge lit panels use a light guide plate that can discolor over time. Backlit panels do not use one, so that is not a concern.