What is LED Tape

LED tape is a versatile, flexible lighting solution made up of small LED emitters mounted along a narrow, bendable circuit board. Designed to run on low-voltage DC power, these strips are available in various colors and brightness levels, making them suitable for a range of lighting applications, from accent lighting to task illumination. With an adhesive backing for easy installation, LED tape can be cut to custom lengths, allowing users to fit it into unique spaces and layouts.

There are two main types of LED Tape: Surface Mounted Diode (SMD) or Chip on Board (COB)

Surface Mounted Diode (SMD) LED tape, sometimes referred to as Surface Mount Technology (SMT) LED tape, is one of the earlier forms of LED tape lighting. On this type of tape, individual LEDs are visible on the flexible printed circuit board (FPCB), giving it a more "dotted" appearance when illuminated. With a relatively low LED density, typically ranging from 30 to 120 LEDs per meter, SMD LED Tape offers a straightforward, classic look. While it may not deliver the seamless glow of newer options, it’s ideal for applications where a more traditional, softly segmented light effect is preferred.

Chip On Board (COB) LED tape is a newer type of LED strip light designed for a smoother, more continuous light output. Unlike traditional LED tapes, COB tape places smaller LEDs much closer together, resulting in an impressive density of 480 to 528 LEDs per meter. This tight arrangement eliminates visible gaps between LEDs, giving the appearance of one continuous line of light. Ideal for applications where a seamless glow is essential, COB LED tape offers a more refined finish than standard SMD tapes, making it a popular choice for modern, professional lighting designs.

LED Tape typically ranges from 5 to 12mm in width and is designed for easy customisation, with clearly marked cut points every 40-50mm. These cut points indicate exactly where you can safely trim the tape to your desired length, allowing flexibility in fitting it in different spaces. While different types of LED tape may vary slightly in their cutting intervals, they all share this convenient feature. Just be sure to turn off the power before making any cuts, and you’re good to go - no need to worry about damaging the LEDs or compromising safety.