LED COB strips are an evolution in linear lighting, designed to offer continuous light, with no visible points, and a clean, professional finish. Increasingly used by architects, interior designers and installers, they are an excellent alternative to traditional SMD LED strips. If you're interested in lighting design, you can also read our article on lighting design.
What is a COB LED strip?
COB stands for Chip On Board. In a COB LED strip, the LED chips are mounted directly on the circuit, allowing many more chips per meter and covering them with a uniform phosphorescent resin that eliminates the dotted effect. If you want to learn about the most common LED types, check out this complete guide.
Difference between SMD and COB strips
- SMD: visible points, spacing between chips, flickering effect on glossy surfaces.
- COB: continuous linear light, no visible points, more homogeneous and aesthetic.
How does COB technology work?
Instead of encapsulating each chip individually, COB chips are joined in a dense matrix on a single base, covered by a phosphor layer that distributes the light evenly.
Advantages of COB LED strips over other solutions
Continuous light without visible points
Perfect for indirect lighting, furniture, recessed profiles or any area where visible, clean light is a priority. Learn more about color temperature to choose the right tone.
Greater visual comfort
By avoiding direct view of LED points, they generate less eye strain and create more relaxed and immersive environments.
Better thermal dissipation
Their compact design improves thermal management, extending product lifespan.
Flexibility and clean finish
Their flexible form allows for smooth curves, ideal for complex architectural designs.
Applications of COB LED strips in professional projects
Furniture and shelving lighting
Ideal for highlighting details without shadows or visible light points. Recommended for kitchens, dressing rooms, bathroom furniture or display cabinets. See a real example in our residential lighting project.
Retail and commercial spaces
A popular choice for perimeter light lines, shelf or display case lighting, delivering a more refined and uniform look.
Project Pizzeria Combà | Design by Coppi Roberta | Photo by Pierangelo Laterza
Interior architecture and hotels
They integrate perfectly into recessed aluminum profiles for ceilings, walls or baseboards.
Backlighting and integrated light lines
Thanks to their continuous lighting, they work as a great alternative to tubular or linear luminaires for creating geometries and light paths. If you work with complex ceilings, check out our professional guide for low ceilings.
Technical considerations when choosing COB LED strips
CRI, color temperature and luminous flux
- CRI ≥90: for demanding projects requiring color fidelity.
- Temperature: from 2700K to 4000K depending on the desired ambiance.
- Luminous flux: between 800 and 2000 lm/m depending on model.
Aluminum profile and dissipation
It’s important to install them on an aluminum profile to dissipate heat and extend their lifespan. For outdoor use, read our article on IP protection ratings.
Cutting types and control
They can be cut every few centimeters and controlled via dimmable drivers, DMX, DALI or Casambi, depending on the project.
Where should COB LED strips not be used?
They are not designed for humid areas or outdoor use without IP65/IP67 protection. Nor for direct lighting of large spaces.
Project Vithas Valencia
Installation recommendations
- Always use profiles with diffuser.
- Plan the cut according to the manufacturer's marks.
- Avoid sharp bends.
- Use drivers suitable for the total installed power.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What power do I need per meter?
It depends on the use. For decorative lighting, 8–10W/m may be enough. For functional lighting, we recommend 14–20W/m.
Is it compatible with standard profiles?
Yes, most COB LED strips fit 10 mm or 12 mm wide profiles.
Can it be used outdoors?
Only if the strip has IP65/IP67 protection and is properly installed in a waterproof profile.
Need professional advice?
At Faro Barcelona we can help you choose the best COB LED strip for your residential, contract or retail project. Contact our technical team for personalized support.