What is a COB LED Strip?

COB LED strip is a thin, flexible strip of light with Chip-on-Board technology, in which multiple small LED chips are mounted directly into the strip's surface, one after another. COB strips produce even, continuous, and smooth lighting throughout the length the strip, unlike the traditional LED strips that have distinctly separate patches of light. They are perfect for modern interiors, ambient lighting, and wherever you want even light without borders.

Below are a few frequently asked questions.

What is COB in LED light?

COB means Chip-on-Board. It refers to the technique wherein a group of chips of LEDs is assembled in close grouping on a single printed circuit board and covered with phosphor coating. It increases light density, colour evenness, and emission of radiation. Simply put, you produce more light from less space with higher efficiency and without a gap between LEDs being visible to the eye.

Is COB LED superior to normal LED strip?

It is your choice. COB LEDs are optimally applied in products where level a smooth, high-intensity light output is required, i.e., domestic and commercialstrip lighting. They emit an even light beam, which is less stressful for the eyes. Older LEDs (typically SMD type) emit more light per unit but emit unbalanced light unless diffused. For everyday standard lighting, backlighting, or home furnishings, COB generally has the edge when it comes to appearance and greater luminous efficacy. 

Is COB light appropriate to have at home?

Yes, COB lights are ideal for indoor usage. They provide soft but powerful light with no glare on walls and ceilings. They are ideal for use in kitchen under-cabinet lighting, cove lighting, wardrobes, stairs, and accent lighting. With their ideal colour rendering index (CRI), they make colours appear in their natural state.

How long does a COB LED last?

A high-quality COB LED lasts between 30,000 and 50,000 hours, depending on the manufacturer and the operating conditions. Good heat management is essential; COB LEDs that operate at lower temperatures have longer lifespans and brighter lumen retention over time.

How much COB light is needed in watts?

That is a use and application issue. COB LED tapes will typically be 5W to 15W per meter. Typically 10 watts per meter and also dimmable a three meter run will produce 30 watts

In what ways are SMD and COB LED strips different from one another?

The most significant distinction is where the LEDs are placed.

SMD (Surface-Mounted Device) strips are where individual chips of LEDs are mounted on the strip and emit specks of visible light.

COB (Chip-on-Board) strips mean hundreds of tiny chips actually lying side by side and topped with an even layer of phosphor, which emits a steady beam of light.

COB LEDs have a more even beam pattern, uniformity of light emission, SMD strips have dotted light source in appearance.

Is COB or SMD LED better?

COB LED is a very advanced LED light source. When you require a smooth professional light output that can be seen the choose COB. When lighting recessed areas with a hidden light source SMD LEDs will do.

How much power does a COB light use?

Power consumption model-dependent. Typically COB strip runs at 10 watts per meter with a light output of 800 lumens. It is efficient compared to using regular LED strips with the same power but less lumens. Always best to check the product spec in watts per meter and lumen output before buying.