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Linear LED light sources are now the basis of modern decorative and functional lighting. LED strips and LED modules differ in parameters, appearance, and application. From this article, you will learn about their types, how to distinguish them, and how to choose the right type for the kitchen, bathroom, or living room.

What are linear LED light sources?

Linear LED lighting is a solution in which light is generated by serially arranged LED diodes, usually mounted on a flexible tape or rigid PCB board. Their great advantage is the ability to adjust the length, aesthetic appearance, and ease of installation in aluminum profiles.

Types of LED strips – SMD vs. COB
 

1. SMD LED strips (with light points)

This is the most popular type of LED strips. The diodes are visible as individual light points. Designations such as 3528, 5050, or 2835 refer to the size of the diode.

Advantages:

•  easy availability
•  different number of diodes per meter (e.g., 60, 120, 240)
•  color control, dimming capability
•  attractive price

Disadvantages:

•  light can be "dotty" – does not create a uniform line
•  requires a good light diffuser

2. COB LED strips (continuous line of light)

COB (Chip on Board) is a technology where diodes are densely arranged and covered with a phosphor layer, creating a continuous line of light – even without a diffuser.

Advantages:

•  very even light distribution
•  no light points
•  perfect for decoration and mood lighting

Disadvantages:

•  higher price
•  often lower luminous flux per watt than SMD

LED modules – an alternative to strips

LED modules are ready-made light elements that can have different shapes – rectangular, linear, ring-shaped. They are usually more rigid than strips, more durable, and used in industrial fixtures, stretch ceilings, or advertising backlighting.

Advantages:

•  longer lifespan
•  stable construction
•  often built-in controls (e.g., power supplies, stabilizing circuits)

IP protection rating – can LED strips be waterproof?

When choosing linear LED light sources, pay attention to the IP rating, which indicates the protection against dust and water:

• IP20 – standard strip for indoor use (e.g., in the living room, bedroom)
• IP44–IP54 – moisture and splash resistance (e.g., kitchen, bathroom, wardrobe)
• IP65 and above – silicone-coated strips, resistant to direct water contact (e.g., outdoor enclosures, bathroom above the tub)

Tip: For kitchen under-cabinet lighting or bathroom, choose strips with at least IP44. For the living room – IP20 is sufficient.

What else to consider when choosing LED strips?

• Light color – warm (2700–3000K), neutral (4000K), cool (6000K)
• CRI (Ra) – color rendering index; above 80 is minimum, above 90 is very good color reproduction
• Power and luminous flux – the more lumens per meter, the brighter the light
• Power supply – usually 12V or 24V – choose the appropriate power supply
• Control – dimming capability or color change (e.g., RGB, CCT)

Summary – what to choose and where to use it?

AVA LIGHT Sp. z o.o.

Puławska 38 St.,

05-500 Piaseczno,

POLAND

NIP 123-15-75-215

+48 609 051 044

+48 794 315 678

info(at)avalight.pl

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