| Technology |
LED chips are mounted directly on a flexible circuit board and covered with a continuous phosphor layer. |
Individual LED packages are mounted at regular intervals on the circuit board. |
Helps create a more continuous light source in compact installations. |
| Light Appearance |
Dot-free or low-dot appearance when viewed directly, especially with a suitable aluminum profile or diffuser. |
Individual bright points may be visible, particularly in shallow channels or without a diffuser. |
Provides cleaner visual results for retail displays, cabinets, signage, and architectural details. |
| Typical Color Consistency |
Generally smooth and consistent along the strip when manufactured and binned correctly. |
May show more visible variation between individual LED packages if binning is less consistent. |
Supports a more uniform appearance across long illuminated surfaces. |
| Common Color Temperatures |
Common options include approximately 2200K–6500K, plus RGB and tunable-white versions. |
Also commonly available from approximately 2200K–6500K, with RGB and tunable-white options. |
Allows businesses to match lighting with product presentation and interior design requirements. |
| Energy Use |
Common commercial models are available in a broad range, often around 4–15 watts per meter depending on LED density and brightness. |
Power consumption also varies widely, commonly around 4–20 watts per meter. |
The product’s actual wattage, brightness, operating schedule, and power-supply efficiency should be evaluated together. |
| Operating Voltage |
Common versions use 5V, 12V, or 24V DC, depending on the design and application. |
Common versions also use 5V, 12V, or 24V DC. |
Low-voltage operation supports safer integration with suitable certified power supplies. |
| Heat Management |
Requires appropriate heat dissipation, especially at higher power levels; aluminum channels can improve thermal performance. |
Also benefits from aluminum channels and adequate ventilation when operated at higher power. |
Proper installation can support stable performance and longer service life. |
| Cutting and Installation |
Can be cut only at designated cutting points, which vary by model; flexible construction supports curved layouts. |
Also requires cutting at designated points and may be flexible or rigid depending on the product. |
Simplifies custom-length projects when installers follow the product’s cutting and connection guidelines. |
| Suitable Applications |
Retail shelving, display cases, signage, hospitality interiors, cove lighting, furniture, and decorative accents. |
General accent lighting, task lighting, signage, under-cabinet lighting, and decorative installations. |
COB technology is particularly useful where a continuous visual line is important. |
| Outdoor Protection |
Indoor and protected versions are common; outdoor use requires a suitable IP-rated construction and sealed connections. |
Indoor and outdoor versions are available; the IP rating must match exposure to water and dust. |
Correct IP selection helps reduce installation risk in damp or exposed locations. |
| Control Options |
May support dimming, RGB control, tunable white, sensors, or smart-control systems when compatible drivers are used. |
Similar control options are available, depending on the strip and controller. |
Enables lighting scenes that can support branding, product focus, and energy management. |
| Key Selection Checks |
Verify lumens per meter, watts per meter, CRI, CCT, voltage, cut interval, IP rating, maximum run length, warranty, and required power supply. |
Verify the same core specifications, plus the need for a diffuser if visible LED points are unacceptable. |
Comparing complete system specifications leads to better lighting quality, reliability, and operating cost control. |