Chip-on-Board (COB) LED strip lights offer a uniform dot-free illumination making them a popular choice of LED strip light that gives you a seamless finish compared to SMD strip lights.

Understanding COB Technology and Light Output

COB LED strip is made by mounting multiple small LED chips onto a PCB flexible circuit board.  The LED chips are then covered by a layer of phosphor material and this produces the light.  This phosphor layer combined with the high intensity of the emitters within it means that COB LED strip has a seamless unbroken line of light.  

The Role of a Diffuser in LED Lighting

A diffuser is a specialised cover made from plastic which is then placed over a LED light source that is sat within a piece of LED profile.  Diffusers can be purchased in clear, transparent or black opal finishes.  They help to scatter the light to make the dots less visible in the LED strip and to create a softer style of illumination. 

Do COB Strip Lights Need a Diffuser?

This will depend on personal preference.  A diffuser will not be needed to make the dots less visible within the COB LED strip because they do not have any.  However they can still be useful to soften the light and reduce the glare.   

A diffuser can have a practical application for LED strips as well as this will help to protect the LED strip from exterior damage such as dust or human contact.  If you do not feel the need to have a diffused effect on your light but would still like to have this protection this is where a clear/transparent diffuser will come in useful.  

Below is a table on how much a particular type of diffuser will affect the light coming from the COB LED strip:

In conclusion

If you are looking to eliminate any visible dots you will not need a diffuser but you may find that one will be useful if you are looking to reduce glare or give your COB LED lights some extra protection.