Buyer guide
COB vs SMD LED Strips
The two main types of LED strip differ in one fundamental way: how the light looks. Understanding the difference will help you choose the right strip for every installation.
Side by side
SMD
Surface Mounted Diode
Individual LED chips at regular intervals. Visible dots at close range. Cost-effective and well-proven. Best for hidden runs inside closed profiles where the strip is not in the line of sight.
COB — Recommended
Chip on Board
Thousands of microscopic chips packed continuously across the strip — a single, seamless, unbroken line of light with no visible dots regardless of viewing angle or diffuser distance. The professional standard for any visible installation.
The rule of thumb
If the strip is visible — even at a glancing angle — use COB. If it is hidden inside a closed profile, SMD is perfectly adequate and more cost-effective.
Related guides
Complete guide to LED strips → What driver do I need? → IP ratings explained → Aluminium profiles guide →Not sure which type is right for your project?
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