SMD and panel downlights: how to choose the right one
Choose an SMD or panel downlight by first deciding whether you need a new fitting or a replacement. These lights use many small LEDs behind a flat cover, giving a wide spread of light from a flat face. For homes, we recommend COB downlights; our COB downlight guide explains that choice.
Is this a new panel light or a replacement?
A replacement starts with the existing hole size; a new light starts with the ceiling and the fitting type.
Our range figures are from 12 November 2026 and cover 228 active products. Panel and SMD downlights suit offices, shops, corridors, utility areas and anyone who prefers a flat panel.
For a replacement, switch off at the board before removing the old light. Measure the round hole edge to edge across its centre, in mm. Match the replacement's cut-out to that measurement, rather than its outer face.
The product page gives the cut-out where listed. If it is missing, ask before ordering. The panel downlight finder matches exact hole sizes first. For a new installation, compare types, style and finish before settling the size and fit.
Where will a recessed, surface or grid panel fit?
Choose recessed fittings for a false ceiling, surface fittings for a plain ceiling, and grid panels for a grid ceiling.
Recessed panels fit a round or square hole cut into the false ceiling. Surface panels fix onto the ceiling where there is no false ceiling. Check the fixing type rather than relying on the word “panel”.
Grid panels drop into a grid false ceiling, commonly found in offices and shops. A 2x2 panel means about 2 ft by 2 ft; 1x1 and 4x1 are other grid formats. Use these names as a starting point, then confirm the actual dimensions.
Plan the wire point with your electrician before plaster and paint. Browse the SMD and panel downlight collection to compare suitable fittings.
Which type of SMD or LED panel light should I choose?
Choose the sub-category by its face and fixing style, then check the individual model's installation details.
- SMD downlights: a flat covered face for buyers who want a wide spread in offices, shops or utility areas.
- Deep recessed LED downlights: the LED sits further inside, reducing glare when you look up.
- Slim panels: a shallow panel with a flat glowing face; check its depth against the available ceiling space.
- Backlit panels: LEDs sit behind the panel face; compare these for office and shop ceilings.
- Rimless full glow panels: a face without a prominent border, for buyers who prefer that look.
- Surface panels and surface downlights: fittings that attach onto a plain ceiling without a recessed ceiling hole.
- Grid panels: panels for a matching ceiling grid, often used in workplaces.
- Adjustable cut-out panels: fittings with an adjustable fixing range; check that the stated range covers your hole.
These latest designs show different fitting choices. Open each product page to compare its available variants.
Should I choose a round or square panel light?
Choose round or square for the look you prefer, then confirm the finish, outer size and cut-out.
The range has 115 round and 104 square products, so both shapes have plenty of choice. Compare the border and how the face will look with nearby fittings.
Next, choose the body colour and finish. Options vary, check the product page. Body colour describes the fitting; light colour describes the light it gives.
Then confirm the dimensions. A similar outer face does not establish that a replacement fits the same ceiling hole.
Where does a motion sensor ceiling light help?
A motion sensor light suits places where people pass through and may leave the light switched on.
There are about 50 motion-sensor models, including some dimmable options and some with a day and night feature. Consider them for corridors, stairs, store rooms and parking.
A motion sensor switches the light on when someone walks past and off after a set time. Where listed, the delay and sensing range can be adjusted. A day and night feature keeps it off in daylight.
Check the model's settings and fixing type before ordering. A parking location also needs a fitting suitable for that location.
How many watts should a panel downlight have?
Use wattage as a starting point, then use the room planner to decide how many lights your space needs.
In this range, 12 W is the leading listed wattage, followed by 18 W, 20 W and 15 W. The common option is not automatically the right choice for every room.
For home downlights with a normal ceiling, about 7 W to 12 W is a common starting point. About 15 W to 25 W may suit higher ceilings, shops and showrooms.
Use the room lighting planner for a suggested quantity. Confirm the chosen model's size and fit as well as its wattage.
Which light colour should I choose for an LED panel?
Choose light colour for the room's use, then check which options the selected model offers.
- Warm white: about 2700K to 3000K is a starting point for living rooms, bedrooms and dining.
- Neutral white: about 4000K is a starting point for kitchens, study areas, bathrooms and offices.
- Cool white: about 5000K to 6000K is a starting point for work areas, utility rooms and shops wanting bright white light.
Light colour options vary by model; the product page lists them. On some models, a 3-in-1 colour switch changes between warm, neutral and cool when switched off and on at the wall.
Can I dim a panel light or use a remote?
Dimming is offered on some models only, so check the product page for the supported control.
“Remote only” means control through a remote. “Remote + app” means control through a remote or phone app. Both run on the normal supply. Check whether the model offers either option.
Where Triac is listed, it needs a matching wall dimmer. DALI and 1-10V need a control system set up by an electrician or home automation installer.
How much does a panel downlight cost in India?
The median listed starting price is about ₹600, with the largest group priced under ₹500.
These bands are from 12 November 2026. They use each product's lowest variant price, including GST. One product has its price on request.
The product page shows the current price. Compare the required variant before placing an order.
What should I check before buying a panel downlight?
Confirm the fitting, appearance, dimensions, light colour and controls before paying.
- For a replacement, record the existing hole size and match the cut-out.
- Choose the sub-category, then the style, shape and finish.
- Confirm recessed, surface or grid fixing, with dimensions and space checked.
- Check wattage and use the room planner for quantity.
- Confirm light colour and any sensor, remote or dimming function.
- Check the current variant price. Warranty depends on the model and is shown on the product page.
Questions and answers
These answers cover common buying questions about panel lights, ceiling fit and controls.
Is a concealed light the same as a false ceiling light?
Buyers often use these words for recessed lights. Check the fixing type and cut-out, because the name alone does not confirm fit.
Can a surface panel light fit without a false ceiling?
Yes, surface panels fix onto a plain ceiling. Confirm the wire point and mounting details with your electrician.
Will a 2x2 panel light fit my grid ceiling?
Compare the product's actual dimensions and fixing type with your grid. The format name alone is not enough.
Should I buy a 12 watt or 15 watt panel light?
Choose using the room planner, ceiling height and required quantity. Also check the cut-out when replacing an existing light.
Does every motion sensor light dim?
No. Some models offer dimming; check the product page for the listed function and settings.
Can I replace a round panel with a square panel?
Only if the new fitting's cut-out and fixing details suit the existing opening. Similar outer dimensions alone do not confirm compatibility.
Jainsons Lights was founded in 1978 and has four showrooms in Delhi. Explore the panel downlight collection, use the panel downlight finder or room lighting planner, or visit our showrooms. Send your ceiling details and measurements for help choosing.