What are the disadvantages of COB LED strips?

COB is Chip on Board, and it's a technology in which numerous LED chips are closely mounted side by side to a single board. The layout provides a level, flat beam of light with no dots to see, a quality that normal SMD (Surface Mounted Diode) LED strips can't provide. However, like all lighting solutions, there is always a compromise when using COB LED strips.

Let's dive into the details.

1. Heat buildup and lifespan

COB LEDs pack so many chips into such a compact space that they emit more heat than regular LED strips. Without cooling with reasonable heat management or good mounting, they decrease their lifespan to 25,000 to 50,000 hours, that is, by less than high-end SMD LEDs, which can have a life of up to 60,000 hours. That is, COB LEDs are long-lasting, but no more than that.

2. Cost

COB LED strips are costlier than regular SMD LED strips. The advanced production process, tighter chip installation, and better light quality come at a cost. Therefore, illuminating a large space or working on a tight budget makes the cost aspect a relevant factor.

3. Difficult to repair

If one section of a COB LED strip is damaged, it is harder to fix than an SMD strip. The tight packing density of the layout makes soldering at the chip level, more traditionally, section replacement, than single LEDs, challenging.

4. Fewer cut and flex points

Though both will bend well, COB strips are not as flexible as normal SMD strips when folded over corners or folded and refolded several times. Cuts will be further apart to make it, so it might be more difficult to custom-fit on some designs.

Which one is better: COB or LED?

No, there's no flat-out "better" one; there just is, depending on your needs.

COB LEDs are ideal for soft, homogenized lighting without dots to see, hence suitable for ambiance or decorative lighting.

SMD LEDs are ideal for brighter and more intense uses where you need more light.

For shape and soft light, use COB. For brightness and functionality, SMD is best.

How long do COB LED strips last?

COB LED strips have a lifespan of 25,000 to 50,000 hours under use, heat sinking, and the quality of construction. In actual use, that's a couple of years of normal use before you'd even begin to notice it was getting dimmer.

How many watts of COB light do I need?

It all depends on where you are going to place it. 5 to 10 watts per meter will suffice when you are going to use it as accent lighting in a house. When you are going to use it as task lighting or apply it to commercial properties, 15 to 20 watts per meter is what you need to use. The point is, energy efficiency must be balanced with luminescence.

Is COB LED waterproof?

Some are, some aren't. COB LED strips differ in IP ratings (Ingress Protection). For the home, it's possible to use IP20 strips. Outside, where there's water, or in wet areas such as kitchens and bathrooms, use IP65 or IP67 waterproof versions. Make sure to read the product label before installation.

Summary

COB LED strips deliver to you sharp, blemish-free light and high-end style at a higher cost and aren't the longest-lasting choice. They're ideal for somebody who cares more about style and light quality than brute brightness or versatility.