COB vs SMD LED Strip — What’s the Difference? - THE LIGHTING GALLERY

COB vs SMD LED Strip — What’s the Difference?

The Difference Between COB and SMD LED Strips

When shopping for LED strips in Singapore, you’ll often come across two common types: COB LED strips and SMD LED strips. Both are popular for home and commercial lighting, but which is right for you? Let’s break down the differences so you can make the best choice for your project.

What is an SMD LED Strip?

SMD stands for Surface Mounted Diode. These are the traditional LED strips most people know — you can see the individual LED chips mounted along the strip.

  • Visible light dots: LEDs are spaced apart, so you often see hotspots.
  • LED density: Usually 60–120 LEDs per meter.
  • Light quality: Works fine for indirect lighting but not ideal if the strip is visible.
  • Cost: Generally more affordable than COB.

What is a COB LED Strip?

COB stands for Chip-On-Board. This is a newer technology where hundreds of tiny LED chips are packed together, creating a continuous, dotless light output.

  • Seamless glow: No visible dots — smooth, even light.
  • LED density: Over 320 LEDs per meter.
  • Light quality: High CRI (90+), perfect for areas where true colors matter (kitchens, wardrobes, displays).
  • Aesthetic: Premium finish, professional look.

COB vs SMD LED Strips — Side by Side

Here’s a quick comparison table to help you decide:

Feature SMD LED Strip COB LED Strip (Our Pick)
Light Appearance Visible dots, uneven glow Smooth, dotless, uniform
LED Density 60–120 LEDs per meter 500+ LEDs per meter
Color Accuracy (CRI) 80–90 95+
Best For General/indirect lighting Display, cabinets, premium
Price Lower Slightly higher but better

 

Which One Should You Choose?

  • Choose SMD if you need a low-cost option for hidden lighting areas (e.g., behind coves, under false ceilings).
  • Choose COB if you want modern, dotless lighting with high CRI — perfect for under-cabinet kitchens, wardrobes, display cases, or any visible lighting.

👉 At The Lighting Gallery, we specialize in COB LED strips because they deliver superior aesthetics, better brightness distribution, and are trusted by interior designers in Singapore.

Shop COB LED Strips in Singapore

Ready to upgrade your lighting? Explore our full range:

📌 All our COB LED strips come with 1-year warranty, local stock, and fast dispatch in Singapore.

Conclusion

Both SMD and COB LED strips have their uses, but COB LED strips are the future of modern lighting. With their dotless, smooth glow and high color accuracy, they’re the perfect choice for Singapore homes and commercial spaces.

💡 Still unsure? Contact our team at The Lighting Gallery — we’ll help you pick the right lighting solution for your project.

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