LED strip lights are everywhere. They brighten kitchens, jazz up bedrooms, and turn gaming setups into neon dreams. But with so many different types of LED light strips, choosing the right one can be a headache. Do you need bright white? Colour-changing? Waterproof? 12V or 24V?
This guide will explain everything to you. We’ll cover the different types, what they do, and which ones best suit your needs. You better dive in before your brain melts from LED overload.
Classifications by LED Chip Type
LED strips aren’t all the same. The chip type determines brightness, efficiency, and overall performance.
SMD (Surface-Mounted Device) LEDs
SMD LEDs are the most common. They come in different sizes and power levels:
|
SMD Type |
Size (mm) |
Brightness |
Power Consumption |
Best For |
|
3528 |
3.5 x 2.8 |
Low |
Low (0.06W per LED) |
Accent lighting, decorative use |
|
5050 |
5.0 x 5.0 |
Medium-High |
Moderate (0.24W per LED) |
RGB lighting, general home use |
|
2835 |
2.8 x 3.5 |
Medium |
Low (0.2W per LED) |
Energy-efficient lighting, task lighting |
|
5630/5730 |
5.6 x 3.0/5.7 x 3.0 |
Very High |
High (0.5W per LED) |
Bright task lighting, commercial use |
In a nutshell:
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SMD 3528s are tiny and dim; they are best for accent lighting. Don’t expect them to light up your whole room, though.
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SMD 5050s are bigger and three times brighter. They’re fantastic for RGB strips and general lighting.
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SMD 2835 is a more efficient version of the 3528. It uses less power but still shines brightly.
-
SMD 5630/5730s are super bright. If you want serious lighting, these are for you.
COB (Chip-on-Board) LEDs
COB LEDs look like a smooth strip of light—no visible dots, just pure glow. They’re perfect for under-cabinet lighting or fancy installations. They’re pricier but worth it for a sleek look.
Filament LEDs
Filament LEDs mimic the look of old-school incandescent bulbs. They use thin LED filaments to create a vintage glow. These aren’t as common in LED strips but are sometimes used for decorative effects. They’re a solid choice if you want warm, retro vibes with LED efficiency.
Classifications by Colour and Functionality
Not all LED strips are just “on or off.” Some have fancy tricks up their sleeves. The different types of LED light strips can create simple white lighting or dazzling colour effects.
Single Colour
These strips emit only one colour—usually white (warm, cool, or neutral), but also available in red, green, or blue. They’re simple, reliable, and perfect for task lighting or accents.
RGB (Red, Green, Blue)
RGB strips let you switch between red, green, and blue. Some can mix these colours to create millions of shades. Perfect for mood lighting and party vibes.
RGBW (Red, Green, Blue, White)
These are like RGBs but with an extra white LED. The added white gives better brightness and cleaner tones, making them great for both colourful and functional lighting.
Addressable/Digital/Pixel LEDs (e.g., WS2812B, SK6812)
Each LED can be controlled individually. These strips create advanced effects like rainbow waves, animations, and music synchronization. They’re ideal for gamers, decorators, and those who love a bit of flair.
CCT Adjustable (Tunable White)
These let you adjust the colour temperature, shifting from warm white to cool white. They’re great for workspaces, bedrooms, or anywhere else you need lighting that adapts to different times of the day.
Classifications by Voltage
Voltage matters. Pick the wrong one, and your strip won’t work properly.
5V LED Strips
USB-powered, weak, and only good for short strips, these are great for DIY projects but not for lighting a whole room.
12V LED Strips
Popular and easy to power, these are used for home and car lighting. Just don’t run them too long, or you’ll get a voltage drop (aka dim ends).
24V LED Strips
Twice the voltage and efficiency, these strips are perfect for longer runs without losing brightness.
High Voltage (110V/220V) LED Strips
These lights can be plugged straight into mains power, so there is no need for bulky adapters. They’re best for outdoor or commercial use. Just don’t touch them when they’re on unless you fancy a shocking experience.
Other Important Considerations
IP Rating (Waterproofing and Dust Protection)
Before buying, you should also check the products’ IP ratings:
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IP20 indicates that the product is for indoor use only. Keep it away from water unless you enjoy replacing LED strips often.
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IP65 means the LEDs are splash-proof. You can install them safely in kitchens and bathrooms.
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IP67/IP68 means the product is fully waterproof. They’re safe for outdoor use or if you plan to install LEDs in a fish tank.
Dimmability and Compatibility with Controllers
Some LED strips dim smoothly. Others flicker like an old horror movie. Make sure yours is dimmable if that’s what you need.
Smart control is another option. Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Zigbee let you control LEDs with an app or voice commands. Fancy.
Adhesive and Installation Methods
Most LED strips have a sticky backing. Some stick well, while others fall off in a day. If in doubt, use extra LED tape or install them in aluminium profiles for a clean finish.
Power Consumption and Efficiency
Check the power requirements before buying. Overloading your power supply is a great way to burn out your LEDs (or start a fire). Calculate your wattage needs accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best types of LED strip lights?
It depends on your needs. If you need basic lighting, go for 5050 or 2835 strips. But if you want fancy effects, opt for addressable LEDs instead.
What is the difference between the types of LED strip lights?
Some are bright, some are dim. Some change colours, some don’t. Some are waterproof, some can’t handle a sneeze. At any rate, you should choose wisely.
How long do LED strip lights last?
Good quality ones last 50,000 hours or more. Cheap ones? Maybe a year. You get what you pay for.
Can LED strips be cut and reconnected?
Yes, most of them. Just cut along the marked lines and use connectors or soldering to rejoin.
Are LED strips safe for continuous use?
If they’re installed correctly, yes. Just don’t cover them with fabric or anything flammable.
Ready to Light Up Your Life?
LED strip lights can help you upgrade any space. Whether you need mood lighting, work lighting, or something flashy, there’s an option for you. The different types of LED light strips offer endless possibilities, from basic white to dazzling rainbow effects.
Just pick the right type, check your power supply, and don’t buy the cheapest ones unless you enjoy disappointment. And if you’re looking for top-quality, reliable LED strips, check out LED Supplier. We have everything you need to brighten up your space without emptying your wallet.
