What Are COB LED Strip Lights? Complete Buyer’s Guide

COB LED strip lights are a popular choice for smooth, modern and continuous lighting. Unlike traditional LED strips that can show visible dots, COB technology creates a more uniform line of light.

As a result, COB LED strip lights work well for kitchens, cabinets, shelving, retail displays, architectural lighting and commercial projects.

But what exactly is a COB LED strip? How does it compare with SMD LED strips? What wattage, colour temperature and IP rating should you choose?

This complete buyer’s guide explains everything you need to know before buying COB LED strip lights.

What Are COB LED Strip Lights?

COB stands for Chip on Board. In a COB LED strip, many small LED chips are mounted directly onto the flexible circuit board.

The chips are placed close together. A phosphor coating then covers the LED chips to create a smooth and continuous light output.

This design helps reduce the visible dark spaces and individual LED points often seen with traditional LED strips.

Therefore, COB LED strip lights are often called dot-free or dotless LED strips.

How COB LED Strips Work

A COB LED strip typically contains:

• Multiple LED chips
• A flexible circuit board
• A phosphor coating
• Electrical contacts
• An adhesive backing on many models
• A protective coating on some models

When connected to the correct constant-voltage power supply, the LED chips produce light across the strip.

Because the chips are positioned closely together, the light appears more continuous.

Why Are COB LED Strip Lights Popular?

COB LED strips offer several advantages for modern lighting projects.

1. Smooth, Dot-Free Light

The biggest advantage is the smooth appearance.

Traditional SMD LED strips can show individual LED points when viewed directly or when installed close to a surface. COB technology reduces this effect.

This makes COB LED strips useful where the light source is visible.

2. Excellent for Aluminium Profiles

COB strips work particularly well inside aluminium profiles with diffusers.

The profile helps manage heat while the diffuser creates an even finish.

Together, the strip, profile and diffuser can produce a professional lighting effect.

3. Flexible Installation

COB LED strips can be installed around many shapes and design features.

They can be used for:

• Kitchen cabinets
• Shelving
• Joinery
• Display cabinets
• Feature walls
• Ceiling details
• Cove lighting
• Retail displays
• Signage
• Commercial interiors

4. High Colour Quality Options

Many COB LED strips are available with high CRI ratings.

A high CRI helps colours appear more natural under the light. This is especially useful in kitchens, retail displays, hospitality areas and other spaces where colour accuracy matters.

COB vs SMD LED Strip Lights

One of the most common questions is whether COB or SMD LED strips are better.

The answer depends on the application.

Feature	COB LED Strip	SMD LED Strip
Light appearance	Smooth and continuous	Individual LED points may be visible
Visible dots	Very low	Can be noticeable
LED arrangement	Chips positioned closely together	Individual LED packages
Appearance without diffuser	Very smooth	May show LED points
Flexibility	Excellent	Excellent
Applications	Architectural, cabinets, displays and decorative lighting	General, decorative and commercial lighting
Profile use	Recommended for many installations	Recommended, especially for high-power strips
Colour options	Depends on product	Wide range available
Power options	Available in different wattages	Available in different wattages

Is COB Better Than SMD?

COB is not automatically better for every project.

Instead, choose based on the lighting effect, brightness, installation location, budget and product specifications.

If you need a smooth line of light with minimal visible dots, COB is often a strong option.

For general lighting where individual LED points are not an issue, SMD can also be suitable.

What Does “Dot-Free” Mean?

A dot-free LED strip produces a more continuous line of light instead of clearly visible individual LED points.

This is especially important when the strip is installed:

• Close to a wall
• Under a cabinet
• Inside an open shelf
• Behind a shallow diffuser
• Along a feature wall
• In a visible architectural detail

With COB technology, the LED chips are positioned closely together. This helps blend the light into a smoother line.

However, the final appearance also depends on the installation.

The distance between the LED strip and the surface, diffuser type, aluminium profile and viewing angle can all affect the result.

COB LED Strip Light Wattage

COB LED strips are available in different power levels.

Common options include:

• 8W/m
• 10W/m
• 12W/m
• 15W/m
• 20W/m

Higher wattage does not automatically mean better lighting.

Instead, select the wattage based on the required brightness and application.

For example, lower-power COB strips can suit:

• Decorative lighting
• Shelving
• Cabinet lighting
• Accent lighting

Higher-power strips can suit:

• Task lighting
• Commercial lighting
• Stronger architectural effects
• Applications requiring higher light output

Always check the manufacturer’s lumen output as well as watts per metre.

How Bright Are COB LED Strip Lights?

Brightness depends on more than wattage.

Consider these factors:

• Lumens per metre
• Wattage per metre
• LED efficiency
• Colour temperature
• CRI
• Installation position
• Diffuser type
• Distance from the illuminated surface

For example, two 10W/m COB LED strips may produce different amounts of light.

Therefore, when comparing products, check the lumen output rather than comparing wattage alone.

What Is CRI and Why Does It Matter?

CRI stands for Colour Rendering Index.

It describes how accurately a light source shows colours compared with a reference light source.

A higher CRI generally means colours appear more natural.

For areas where colour matters, consider a COB LED strip with CRI 90 or higher.

This can be useful for:

• Kitchens
• Retail stores
• Showrooms
• Hospitality spaces
• Art displays
• Wardrobes
• Commercial interiors

Vesta Lines offers COB LED strip options with CRI >90, depending on the model.

Choosing the Right Colour Temperature

Colour temperature affects the look and feel of your space.

It is measured in Kelvin (K).

Colour Temperature	Appearance	Common Applications
2700K	Very warm white	Decorative and residential spaces
3000K	Warm white	Kitchens, bedrooms and living areas
3500K	Soft neutral	Residential and commercial interiors
4000K	Neutral white	Kitchens, offices and retail
5000K	Cool white	Work areas and commercial spaces
6500K	Daylight white	Utility and specialised applications

3000K COB LED Strip

3000K produces a warm and comfortable appearance.

It is popular for residential interiors and decorative lighting.

4000K COB LED Strip

4000K produces a more neutral appearance.

It can work well for kitchens, offices, retail spaces and commercial interiors.

6500K COB LED Strip

6500K produces a cool daylight appearance.

It is often used where a bright, cooler light is required.

The right colour temperature depends on the room, finishes and desired atmosphere.

12V vs 24V COB LED Strip Lights

COB LED strips are available in different operating voltages.

The two common options are 12V DC and 24V DC.

For the same power, a 24V system draws less current than a 12V system.

For example:

System	Voltage	Power	Current
12V	12V	120W	10A
24V	24V	120W	5A

Power = Voltage × Current

Therefore:

• 120W ÷ 12V = 10A
• 120W ÷ 24V = 5A

This lower current can be useful for larger installations and can help reduce voltage drop under comparable conditions.

However, the correct voltage always depends on the LED strip and power supply specifications.

Never connect a 12V LED strip to a 24V power supply.

Why 24V COB LED Strips Are Popular for Larger Projects

24V COB LED strips are often useful for commercial and architectural installations.

They can be suitable for:

• Long cabinet runs
• Retail displays
• Commercial interiors
• Cove lighting
• Joinery
• Architectural details
• Large residential projects

However, a 24V strip does not mean you can run the strip indefinitely.

The manufacturer’s recommended maximum run length still applies.

Cable length, cable size, strip wattage and power injection can also affect performance.

IP Ratings for COB LED Strip Lights

If you are installing a COB LED strip in a kitchen, bathroom, outdoor area or other potentially wet location, check its IP rating.

The IP rating indicates the level of protection against solid particles and water under specified test conditions.

Common ratings include:

IP20

Designed for dry indoor environments.

Suitable for areas such as:

• Bedrooms
• Living rooms
• Offices
• Dry cabinetry

IP65

Provides protection against dust and water jets under specified test conditions.

It can be suitable for some indoor and outdoor applications where the strip may experience water spray but is not intended for immersion.

IP67

Designed to provide protection including temporary immersion under specified test conditions.

It can be suitable for more exposed environments when the complete installation is designed correctly.

IP68

Provides a higher level of water protection, with the exact conditions defined by the manufacturer.

Do not assume every IP68 product can be used underwater. Always check the manufacturer’s application requirements.

IP Rating Applies to More Than the LED Strip

One important point is often overlooked.

An IP-rated LED strip does not automatically make the entire installation waterproof.

You also need to consider:

• Connectors
• End caps
• Cable entries
• Strip joins
• Power supplies
• Controllers
• Junction points

For outdoor and wet installations, every part of the system must be suitable for the environment.

COB LED Strip Lights for Kitchens

COB LED strips are particularly popular in modern kitchens.

They can provide smooth lighting underneath cabinets and across shelves.

Common applications include:

Under-Cabinet Lighting

Install the strip underneath wall cabinets to provide useful task lighting across the benchtop.

Inside Cabinets

COB strips can provide smooth illumination inside cupboards and wardrobes.

Open Shelving

The dot-free appearance can create a clean line of light along shelves.

Kitchen Islands

LED strips can be integrated into joinery and architectural details around kitchen islands.

For kitchens, consider the colour temperature, CRI, brightness and profile before choosing a product.

COB LED Strip Lights for Commercial Applications

COB LED strips are also suitable for many commercial lighting projects.

They can be used for:

• Retail displays
• Shopfitting
• Reception areas
• Hospitality
• Restaurants
• Offices
• Showrooms
• Signage
• Architectural details
• Display cabinets

For commercial projects, consider the total power load, driver location, cable runs, control system and maintenance access before installation.

Do COB LED Strips Need an Aluminium Profile?

An aluminium profile is recommended for many LED strip installations.

It can provide several benefits:

• Helps manage heat
• Protects the LED strip
• Provides a cleaner installation
• Allows a diffuser to be fitted
• Helps create a professional finish

This is especially important for higher-power LED strips.

A profile does not automatically make an LED strip waterproof. Waterproofing depends on the strip and the complete installation.

Explore the Vesta Lines aluminium extrusion profile range.

COB LED Strip Installation

Before installation, plan the complete system.

Step 1: Measure the Area

Measure the total length required.

Add each section together if the project has multiple areas.

Step 2: Choose the Correct LED Strip

Consider:

• Wattage
• Lumens
• Colour temperature
• CRI
• Voltage
• IP rating
• Width
• Cutting interval
• Maximum run length

Step 3: Select the Power Supply

Calculate the total wattage.

For example:

6m × 10W/m = 60W

Choose a compatible power supply based on the strip’s voltage and required load, with suitable capacity according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Step 4: Plan the Wiring

For longer installations, consider:

• Cable length
• Cable size
• Voltage drop
• Multiple power feeds
• Power injection where appropriate
• Driver location

Step 5: Install the Aluminium Profile

If required, install the profile before fitting the LED strip.

Make sure the profile provides suitable heat management for the selected strip.

Step 6: Install the COB Strip

Clean and dry the mounting surface.

Remove the adhesive backing and carefully press the strip into position.

Do not bend the strip beyond the manufacturer’s recommended bending radius.

Step 7: Test Before Final Installation

Test the lighting before closing cabinets, ceilings or joinery.

Check for:

• Even brightness
• Correct colour
• Correct connections
• Flickering
• Heat
• Controller operation

Common COB LED Strip Installation Mistakes

Using the Wrong Voltage

A 24V strip requires a 24V DC supply.

A 12V strip requires a 12V DC supply.

Choosing Wattage Without Checking Lumens

Higher wattage does not always mean more useful light.

Compare lumen output as well.

Ignoring Heat

High-power LED strips can produce heat.

Use a suitable aluminium profile when recommended.

Making Runs Too Long

Long continuous runs can experience voltage drop.

Follow the manufacturer’s maximum run recommendations.

Using Poor-Quality Connectors

Poor connections can cause flickering, voltage drop and reliability problems.

Use suitable connectors or follow the manufacturer’s recommended joining method.

For waterproof installations, use connectors designed for the relevant environment.

View the Vesta Lines LED strip connector range.

Cutting at the Wrong Point

Only cut the strip at the marked cutting points.

The cutting interval depends on the specific product.

How to Calculate COB LED Strip Power

Use this simple formula:

Total Power = Length × Watts per Metre

For example, if you install 8 metres of a 10W/m COB strip:

8m × 10W = 80W

You then need a compatible power supply for the strip’s operating voltage and total load.

For a 24V system:

80W ÷ 24V = 3.33A

For a 12V system:

80W ÷ 12V = 6.67A

This demonstrates why the same power load requires less current at 24V.

What COB LED Strip Should You Buy?

Before buying, ask these questions:

1. What is the application?

Is it for a kitchen, cabinet, retail display, commercial space or outdoor area?

2. How much light do you need?

Check lumens per metre and wattage.

3. What colour temperature do you want?

Choose between warm, neutral and cool white based on the environment.

4. Do you need high CRI?

For kitchens, retail and display applications, CRI 90+ can be a useful choice.

5. Do you need waterproof protection?

Choose the correct IP rating for the installation environment.

6. Is the strip 12V or 24V?

Make sure the power supply and controller match the strip voltage.

7. What is the maximum run length?

Check the manufacturer’s specifications before planning long runs.

8. Do you need an aluminium profile?

For many installations, especially higher-power strips, a suitable aluminium profile can improve heat management and provide a cleaner finish.

Vesta Lines COB LED Strip Lights

Vesta Lines offers a range of COB LED strip lighting options for residential, commercial and architectural applications.

Depending on the model, options include different:

• Wattages
• Colour temperatures
• CRI ratings
• IP ratings
• Strip widths
• Roll lengths
• Operating voltages

8W COB LED Strip Lights

Our 8W COB strip range provides smooth, dot-free lighting for indoor applications.

View Vesta Lines 8W COB LED strips

10W IP65 COB LED Strip Lights

The IP65 COB range can suit decorative and architectural applications where protection against water spray is required.

View Vesta Lines IP65 COB LED strips

10W IP67 COB LED Strip Lights

Our IP67 COB range provides smooth light output with higher water protection for suitable indoor and outdoor applications.

View Vesta Lines IP67 COB LED strips

15W IP68 COB LED Strip Lights

For applications requiring a higher level of water protection, explore the IP68 COB range and check the manufacturer’s conditions for the intended application.

View Vesta Lines IP68 COB LED strips

COB LED Strip Lights Buying Checklist

Before placing an order, check the following:

Specification	What to Check
LED technology	COB
Voltage	12V DC or 24V DC
Wattage	W/m
Lumens	lm/m
Colour temperature	2700K–6500K depending on product
CRI	Check product specification
IP rating	IP20, IP65, IP67, IP68 or other
Strip width	Check available space
Cutting interval	Check manufacturer’s specification
Maximum run	Follow manufacturer recommendation
Power supply	Match voltage and load
Aluminium profile	Recommended or required depending on product
Controller	Check voltage and load compatibility
Installation environment	Indoor, outdoor or wet area

Frequently Asked Questions About COB LED Strip Lights

What does COB mean in LED strip lights?

COB means Chip on Board. It describes a design where many LED chips are mounted closely together on the circuit board.

Are COB LED strips better than normal LED strips?

COB strips can provide a smoother and more continuous light appearance. However, the best option depends on the application, required brightness, budget and product specifications.

Are COB LED strips really dot-free?

COB technology greatly reduces visible LED points and creates a more continuous appearance. However, the final result also depends on the installation, viewing distance and diffuser.

Are COB LED strips brighter than SMD strips?

Not automatically. Brightness depends on the strip’s lumen output, wattage, efficiency and design.

Do COB LED strips use more power?

Not necessarily. Power consumption depends on the wattage per metre and total length. A 10W/m COB strip uses 10 watts per metre regardless of whether another product has a different LED technology.

Are COB LED strips good for kitchens?

Yes. Their smooth light output makes them suitable for under-cabinet lighting, shelving and other kitchen applications. High CRI options can also help show food and surface colours more naturally.

Can COB LED strips be used outdoors?

Yes, if the specific product has the correct IP rating and is designed for the intended outdoor environment. Connectors, joins, cables and power supplies must also be protected as required.

Do COB LED strips need a diffuser?

Not always. COB strips already provide a smooth light appearance. However, a diffuser can improve the finish and protect the strip.

Do COB LED strips need an aluminium profile?

Many installations benefit from an aluminium profile, particularly higher-power strips. Always follow the manufacturer’s installation requirements.

Can COB LED strips be dimmed?

Many COB LED strips can be dimmed when used with a compatible dimmer or controller. Check the product specifications before installation.

How long do COB LED strips last?

Lifespan depends on the product, operating temperature, installation and power conditions. Proper heat management can help support long-term performance.

Conclusion

COB LED strip lights are designed to provide a smooth and continuous lighting effect. Their closely positioned LED chips help reduce visible dots, making them popular for kitchens, cabinets, joinery, retail displays and architectural lighting.

When choosing a COB LED strip, do not focus on one specification alone.

Instead, compare the wattage, lumen output, CRI, colour temperature, voltage, IP rating, cutting interval and maximum run length.

Also choose the correct power supply and consider an aluminium profile for suitable heat management.

For residential or commercial projects, selecting the right COB LED strip at the planning stage can help create a cleaner, more reliable and professional lighting installation.

Explore the full Vesta Lines LED strip lighting range to find COB LED strip options for your next project.