Guide to Choosing the Right LED Chip SMD Models Explained

Standing in front of an array of LED lighting options, you might feel overwhelmed by the variety of chip models like 3528, 5050, or 2835. What do these numbers mean, and how do you select the best option for your lighting project? This guide will help you navigate the world of LED chips and make an informed decision.

LED chips, also known as Surface-Mounted Diodes (SMD), are identified by four-digit numbers such as 3528 or 5050. These numbers aren't arbitrary codes—they represent the chip's dimensions in millimeters. For example, a 5050 chip measures 5.0mm × 5.0mm. Understanding this simple fact is the first step in comparing different LED options.

The various chip models (3528, 5050, 2835, 5630, etc.) aren't fundamentally different technologies—they're simply different sizes. Each size comes with specific power requirements and brightness outputs. The "best" choice depends entirely on your project's needs. Below we examine the most common LED chip types in detail.

Measuring 3.5mm × 2.8mm, the 3528 SMD is smaller than the 5050. These chips typically appear in 12V LED strips with either 60 or 120 LEDs per meter:

• 60 LEDs/m: Consumes 4.8W/m, producing 330-360 lumens/meter (comparable to a 40W halogen bulb). Ideal for accent lighting in homes, bars, restaurants, or hotels.
• 120 LEDs/m: Doubles the output (660-720 lumens/m) while consuming 9.6W/m. Better suited for brighter environments.

Available in multiple colors (red, green, blue, amber, warm/cool white) with 50mm or 25mm cutting intervals. The chips generate minimal heat and can be safely touched during operation.

The larger 5.0mm × 5.0mm 5050 SMD can house three or four individual LED chips (making them ideal for RGB applications). Key configurations include:

• 60 LEDs/m: 14.4W/m producing 990-1080 lumens/m. Used for general lighting where fluorescent tubes might traditionally be used.
• RGB variants: 30 LEDs/m (7.2W/m, ~500 lumens) for accent lighting or 60 LEDs/m (14.4W/m, ~1000 lumens) for full wall illumination.

Available in waterproof (IP67) versions with 100mm cutting intervals. The RGB options allow color mixing through controllers.

At 2.8mm × 3.5mm, the 2835 SMD represents a more efficient version of the 5050:

• Produces 20% more light while consuming less power (0.2W per chip vs. 5050's 0.24W).
• 60 LEDs/m: 12W/m → 1300 lumens/m
• 120 LEDs/m: 24W/m → 2600 lumens/m

Currently limited to white LEDs but offers excellent reliability and lifespan when mounted on proper 2-ounce PCBs.

The 5.6mm × 3.0mm 5630 SMD delivers exceptional brightness (up to 2700 lumens/m for 60 LEDs/m) but requires careful thermal management:

• Must be installed with aluminum profiles or thicker PCBs to prevent overheating.
• Quality varies significantly—premium chips can output 30% more light than lower-grade alternatives.

When selecting LED strips, consider:

• Application: Accent lighting, task lighting, or general illumination?
• Brightness needs: 5W/m for subtle accents up to 24W/m for fluorescent replacements.
• Color requirements: Single color, tunable white, or full RGB capability?
• Environmental factors: Indoor/outdoor use, need for waterproofing?

While chip type matters less than meeting your specific requirements, quality components ensure consistent color, brightness, and longevity. Premium-grade Epistar LEDs typically outperform cheaper alternatives in both output and reliability.