COB vs. SMD LED Strips: Key Differences Explained

LED strip lights come in various technologies, with COB (Chip-on-Board) and SMD (Surface-Mounted Device) being two of the most popular. While both provide energy-efficient lighting, they differ significantly in design, performance, and application. Here’s a detailed comparison:

1. Technology & Construction

• COB LED Strips

  • Uses multiple LED chips bonded directly to a circuit board, creating a seamless light-emitting surface.

  • No individual diodes visible—light appears as a smooth, uniform "line" of illumination.

  • Typically uses a single, high-power COB module per segment.

• SMD LED Strips

  • Features discrete LED chips (e.g., SMD 2835, 5050, or 3528) mounted individually on the strip.

  • Diodes are visible as distinct points of light when unlit.

  • Available in various densities (e.g., 60, 120, or 240 LEDs per meter).

2. Light Quality & Performance

• COB Strips

  • Superior uniformity with no "dotting" effect (ideal for glare-free applications).

  • Higher lumen density in a compact design.

  • Better heat dissipation due to integrated packaging.

• SMD Strips

  • May show visible light spots, especially at close range or with lower-density strips.

  • Flexible brightness control (e.g., single-color, RGB, or tunable white).

  • Wider variety of color temperatures and CRI options.

3. Applications

• COB Strips Excel In:

  • Architectural lighting (coves, niches) where seamless light is critical.

  • Retail displays, museums, or high-end interiors demanding premium aesthetics.

  • Task lighting where shadow reduction matters.

• SMD Strips Are Better For:

  • Decorative lighting (e.g., RGB color-changing effects).

  • Backlighting TVs, cabinets, or signage where individual diodes aren’t noticeable.

  • Budget-friendly projects with standard brightness needs.

4. Durability & Cost

• COB

  • Longer lifespan (up to 50,000+ hours) due to robust construction.

  • Higher initial cost but offers better value for professional applications.

• SMD

  • More affordable and easier to replace/cut-to-length.

  • Slightly shorter lifespan (typically 30,000–50,000 hours).

Conclusion

Choose COB strips for flawless, high-end lighting where uniformity is key. Opt for SMD strips for versatility, color options, and cost efficiency. Both have unique strengths—your choice depends on the project’s demands!