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| Type | Best For | IP |
|---|---|---|
| SMD (standard) | Most indoor uses | IP20 |
| SMD + diffuser | Visible installs | IP20+ |
| COB | Dot-free, coves | IP20 |
| IP65 SMD | Bathrooms, damp | IP65 |
| IP67/68 SMD | Outdoor, wet | IP67+ |
| Neon silicone | Signage, outdoor | IP67 |
| IP68 silicone | Pools, ponds | IP68 |
| RGB SMD | Colour/mood | IP20+ |
| RGBW SMD | Colour + white | IP20+ |
| Tunable white | Flexible CCT | IP20+ |
An aluminium extrusion with a frosted PC diffuser cover completely eliminates visible dots on any SMD strip. Proven technology, repairable, widely available.
Genuinely dot-free but newer tech — no independent LM80 lifespan data yet. Still recommend mounting in an aluminium profile for heat management.
Built-in diffusion, no dots. Excellent for curves, signage and outdoor. Choose silicone over PU — wider temperature range and UV stable.
SMD (Surface Mounted Diode) strips are the most common and widely available. They use individual LED chips spaced along the strip. Higher chip density = smoother light. Available in IP20 (indoor), IP65 (splash), IP67 and IP68 (fully waterproof). Proven, repairable, cost-effective.
COB (Chip on Board) strips use a continuous phosphor coating over closely packed chips — completely eliminating the "dotty" appearance. Excellent aesthetics. However: no independent LM80 lifespan data exists yet, colour consistency can vary between rolls, and heat management requires an aluminium profile. Best mounted in channel.
A standard SMD strip encased in a continuous silicone extrusion that diffuses the light and gives a smooth neon-like glow. No dots. IP67 as standard — excellent for outdoor, facades, curved signage, pool surrounds and anywhere a visible, weather-resistant strip is needed. Choose silicone (not PU) — UV stable and rated to -40°C.
An aluminium extrusion profile with a frosted polycarbonate diffuser cover mounted over any standard SMD strip is the most proven solution for eliminating visible dots. The aluminium also acts as a heatsink, extending strip life. Available in surface, recessed, corner and pendant profiles. The right choice for virtually any visible installation.