Quick answer: COB (chip on board) LED strip packs the LEDs so closely that it gives one continuous line of light with no visible dots, so it can look smooth even without a cover. SMD strip has individual LEDs spaced along it, so it usually looks best inside a profile with a diffuser. Choose COB where the strip is on show or reflects in a worktop, and SMD for runs that will sit inside a profile.
COB and SMD are the two main types of LED strip. Both run from the same drivers and controls. The difference is how the light looks, and that decides where each one works best.
COB vs SMD LED strip at a glance
| COB LED strip | SMD LED strip | |
|---|---|---|
| How it looks | One continuous line of light, no visible dots | Individual points of light along the strip |
| Needs a profile? | Not always: it looks smooth without a cover | Usually, with a diffuser, for a smooth finish |
| Best for | Under cabinets, plinths, open shelves and anywhere the strip is seen or reflected | Runs inside a profile, cupboards, wardrobes and wider spaces |
| Sensio examples | Polar X, Polar Pro, Razor, Razor X, Polar RGBCCT | Primo 2, Viva 3, Sigma 2 |
What is COB LED strip?
COB stands for chip on board. The LED chips are mounted so close together that the light blends into a single, even line. On Sensio COB strips such as Polar X, there are no visible LED dots, which removes the need for a profile or cover. COB strips such as Razor also run cool thanks to excellent thermal conduction. Polar RGBCCT uses 840 LEDs per metre for its diffused look.
COB is the better choice wherever you will see the strip itself or its reflection, for example on a gloss worktop, a glass shelf or a plinth over a shiny floor. See all COB LED strips.
What is SMD LED strip?
SMD stands for surface mounted device. The LEDs are individual components spaced along the strip, so you can see points of light when the strip is bare. Fitted in an aluminium profile with a diffuser, such as Fino or Linia, the light spreads into an even line. SMD strips are a practical, economical choice for runs that will be hidden in a profile.
Which should you choose?
- Under kitchen cabinets: COB, such as Polar X, for a smooth line on the worktop. See the best LED strip lights for a kitchen.
- Handleless kitchens and routed channels: COB Razor X, just 2mm wide.
- Bathrooms: COB Polar X IP65, approved for bathroom Zone 1 and Zone 2.
- Inside cupboards and wardrobes, in a profile: SMD strip such as Primo 2 works well and keeps costs down.
- Around corners: Sigma 2 bends around 90 degree corners without corner cables.
Both types come in single colour, CCT and colour changing versions, and both run at 24V from the same Sensio drivers. Size the driver with what size LED driver do I need?
Watch: COB LED strip connection
More videos: watch the LED strip lighting video playlist on YouTube, or see all our video guides.
Frequently asked questions
Is COB LED strip better than SMD?
It depends where it goes. COB gives a smoother line of light with no visible dots, so it is better where the strip is on show. SMD is a practical choice inside a profile with a diffuser.
Does COB LED strip need a diffuser?
Not always. Sensio COB strips such as Polar X have no visible LED dots, so they do not need a profile or cover. A profile still protects the strip and gives a neater finish.
Can you cut COB LED strip?
Yes. Polar X and the Razor X range are free cut, so you can cut them anywhere. Polar Pro and Razor cut every 31mm. See can you cut LED strip lights?
Is there waterproof COB LED strip?
Yes. Polar X IP65 is a waterproof COB strip approved for bathroom Zone 1 and Zone 2.
Browse all LED strip lights, or contact our technical team for help choosing.
