COB LED Strips: What Are They and When Should You Use Them?

In fact, "COB" stands for Chip On Board, meaning that it has several chips built into the strip. They are usually LED lights grouped together and coated in yellow phosphor, in order to give this feeling of uniformity without the "seams" of the different light sources being visible.

 

Want to highlight a corner of the room? LED strips are renowned for framing spaces and following specific shapes, adding unique prominence. When used effectively, they can transform a space and create stunning effects.  

 

However, conventional LED strips may fall short in certain scenarios, as their visible points can appear on reflective surfaces, even with a diffuser. In such cases, COB LED strips are the perfect solution.

 

What is COB LED Strip

 

A COB LED strip is very similar to the classic strip, but has one crucial difference: it is made up of many small chips.

 

In fact, "COB" stands for Chip On Board, meaning that it has several chips built into the strip. They are usually LED lights grouped together and coated in yellow phosphor, in order to give this feeling of uniformity without the "seams" of the different light sources being visible.

 

 

 Main Advantages and Disadvantages of COB LED Strips  

 

When is it advisable to use COB LED strips? Like traditional LED strips, COB LED strips offer continuous light and create an enveloping aesthetic in the spaces where they are installed.  

 

There are situations where illuminating a surface that reflects light is desired. Using a conventional LED strip in these cases will reveal the individual light points on the strip. To eliminate this irregularity and achieve a uniform lighting effect, COB LED strips are recommended, as they provide seamless illumination without visible dots

 

Another advantage of COB LED strips is their ability to reduce energy consumption by approximately 30-40% or, with the same consumption, deliver a luminous output increase of over 30%.  

 

A key benefit of continuous light is its compatibility with transparent diffusers, unlike standard LED strips that often require opal diffusers to avoid visible light spots.  

 

Summary of key differences compared to other lighting options:  

- Provides a continuous LED light line.  

- Typically offers lower energy consumption and higher light output.  

- Has a longer lifespan.  

- Environmentally friendly, as it contains no mercury.  

- Can be used more effectively with transparent diffusers.  

 

However, the main drawback is the higher cost due to the increased number of chips per meter. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether a seamless, immersive ambiance is desired, particularly when working with reflective surfaces.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About COB LED Strips  

 

If you're considering COB LED strips for your project, you likely have questions. Let's address the most common ones to help you decide if they're the best option.  

 

Which is better: LED strips with or without COB?  

The choice depends on the aesthetic result you want. COB LED strip lights offer a seamless, wraparound light without visible points, making them ideal for reflective surfaces.  

 

Regardless of your choice, ensure the material quality is high. Low-quality LED strips may break when twisted to fit a space.  

 

How can I tell if a COB LED strip is of good quality?  

Focus on three key factors:  

1. Thickness: The strip should have at least two layers, ideally three, ensuring more copper and reduced overheating.  

2. Tape quality: Verify the tape's brand and quality to ensure secure adhesion and durability against impacts.  

3. Chip quality: Check that the chips are well-encapsulated to ensure reliability and longevity.

 

How Much Power Does a COB LED Strip Consume?  

The power consumption of a COB LED strip depends on its wattage. The fact that it is COB does not inherently affect its consumption.  

 

How Can I Install It?  

COB LED strips are typically more delicate due to the high number of chips they contain. We recommend hiring a qualified professional who is experienced in handling and installing them with care.  

 

What Is the Lifetime of COB LED Strips?  

The lifespan depends on the strip's quality. However, LED lights generally last longer. For instance, our COB LED strips have a lifespan of over 40,000 hours, maintaining 80% of their brightness even after this period.  

 

COB LED strips are perfect for professionals aiming to create an immersive atmosphere while complementing reflective materials.

 

At Joineonlux, we offer a range of options to suit your project needs. One standout is the tunable white COB LED strip, allowing you to adjust both color temperature and intensity.  

 

Another excellent choice, particularly for leisure and commercial spaces, is the COB LED strip, which lets you experiment with a variety of colors.  

 

This article has covered many common questions, but if you have any others, we'd be happy to assist you in making the right choice! Please feel free to contact us.