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When choosing LED tape light, there are a number of factors to consider, and selecting the right LED chip is very important. Along with selecting the right colour, wattage and length for you, you may find that some manufacturers include information such as SMD5050. This tells you the style of LED chip used in the tape and gives you a better idea of the type and size of the diode. SMD simply stands for Surface Mount Diode, which is a thin, flat chip soldered to the circuit board that creates a light strip. You may sometimes find the letters are not included, but the numbers usually are. These are important and actually tell you the size of the chip itself. For example, SMD5050 means that the chip itself is 5 x 5mm.
The three most common LED chip types:
LED ChipWidth(mm)Length(mm)
28352.83.5
35283.52.8
505055

LED Chip Types

2835 vs 3528 Chip

The real ‘OG’ 3528 chip is the most common LED chip used when it comes to strip lighting. It is made up of a single diode chip and, more often than not, a round lens that covers the surface. LED tape using this style of chip usually works best for accent lighting such as backlighting your shelving or TV. It’s the least bright of the three chips, but this will sometimes work in your favour where a soft glow of light is required.
Much like the 3528 chip, the 2835 is the same in size but far more advanced. It benefits from an increased surface area and better heat sinks. Heat sinks are very important when it comes to LED lighting as superior heat sinks allow for 2 to 3 times more light! Better heat dissipation also allows the LEDs to work more efficiently and for longer meaning lower energy usage and no need for constant replacements. It’s one of the brightest chips when it comes to LED strip lighting and is the ideal selection in areas such as offices and public spaces.

The 5050 LED Chip

The largest of the three is the 5050 chip. It’s size allows for 3 diodes per chip which creates millions of different colour variations and higher light output. Being larger in size and a more complex style of chip, it does produce more heat than the 3528 and can prove more difficult to include a higher number of LEDs per metre. Mainly used for RGB strip lighting, tapes with this style of LED chip are commonly used in kitchen for colour changing lighting underneath cabinets.

The largest of the three is the 5050 chip. Its size allows for 3 diodes per chip, which creates millions of different colour variations and higher light output. Being larger in size and a more complex style of chip, it does produce more heat than the 3528 and can prove more difficult to include a higher number of LEDs per metre. Mainly used for RGB strip lighting, tapes with this style of LED chip are commonly used in the kitchen for colour-changing lighting underneath cabinets.

What is the LED Chip?

An LED chip is the core component of an LED light that emits light when an electric current passes through it. These chips are mounted onto a circuit board and are the foundational building blocks of LED lighting technology. They are what you actually see glowing on your LED strip. Each chip contains one or more diodes, and the type of chip determines brightness, efficiency, colour rendering and more.

LED chips come in various shapes and sizes, often denoted by a four-digit number (e.g., 3528, 2835, or 5050), which tells you the dimensions in millimetres. These numbers are essential in helping you choose the correct LED strip for your specific lighting application.

How long do LED Chips last?

The lifespan of LED chips can range between 25,000 to over 50,000 hours, depending on their quality and how well they’re managed thermally. Higher-quality chips with better heat sinks, like the 2835 chip, can last longer and perform better over time.

Proper installation, good ventilation, and matching your power supply correctly e.g. using LED chips 12v with the right transformer, can greatly enhance longevity. LED chips degrade slowly, meaning they don’t usually fail completely but instead gradually lose brightness in a process known as lumen depreciation.

Which LED chip is better?

The answer to which LED chip is better depends on your specific needs. For subtle ambient lighting such as shelves, TVs and mood lighting, the 3528 chip is a good choice. For bright lights in workspaces, kitchens or commercial areas, the 2835 chip is often the best choice due to its superior heat management and high lumen output. For RGB colour-changing effects, the 5050 chip is ideal because it has three diodes per chip, allowing for dynamic lighting options.

How do I identify my LED Chip?

You can usually identify your LED chip by looking at the markings on the strip itself. The code (like 2835 or 5050) is often printed directly on the LED chip board or on the packaging. If not, measure the length and width of an individual chip using a ruler or calliper and compare it to the standard sizes listed above.

Can integrated LED Chips be replaced?

In most cases, integrated LED chips, especially in fixtures like downlights or LED chip bulbs, are not designed to be replaced individually. They are soldered onto the LED chip board, and replacing them requires technical skill and precision tools. For DIY enthusiasts and non-professionals, it’s usually more cost-effective to replace the entire light fitting.

That said, when using LED strips, individual sections can often be cut and replaced. If you’re working with a 12V LED chip system, make sure to match the voltage, chip type, and brightness level when replacing a section. We only recommend allowing professionals to carry out this type of work to ensure it is safe and done correctly.

If you would like to discuss your options, contact the knowledgeable team at ArcLED for advice and to find the products you need.

How do I figure out what LED lights I have?

To determine what type of LED lights you have, follow this checklist:

  1. Inspect the Strip or Bulb: Check for model numbers printed on the surface.
  2. Measure the Chip: Use the chip dimensions to determine the type.
  3. Look at the Diodes: One diode = 3528 or 2835; three diodes = 5050.
  4. Check the Power Requirements: Many strips run on 12V or 24V, which should be marked on the power adapter or product packaging.
  5. Review the Colour Output: RGB capability usually means you have a 5050 chip or something even more advanced like 5630.

If you’re still unsure, consult your product manual or contact the ArcLED team for assistance.

LED Chip Efficiency & Heat Management

One of the most important differences between LED chip types is heat efficiency. LEDs don’t burn out like traditional bulbs; they degrade due to poor thermal management. This is where chips like the 2835 shine, literally and figuratively. With a better surface structure and enhanced heat sink capabilities, the 2835 bulbs deliver greater brightness and a longer lifespan.

In contrast, the 5050, while versatile and colourful, produces more heat due to the number of diodes, which means you’ll want to ensure proper spacing and an appropriate profile to avoid overheating.

As technology advances, we’re seeing the emergence of even more sophisticated LED chips for LED lights. Chips like the 5630 and 3014 offer higher efficiency in smaller packages. There are even COB (Chip on Board) LEDs that offer continuous strips of light with no visible diode points, ideal for premium lighting installations.

We’re also seeing growing use in smart lighting applications, where chips can adjust colour temperature, sync with music, and even integrate with home systems like Alexa or Google Home.

Choosing the right LED chip is essential to getting the most out of your lighting setup. Whether you’re after accent lighting, high-intensity workspace lighting, or a full RGB experience, understanding the differences between 2835, 3528, and 5050 chips is key. Always consider brightness, heat management and your specific environment when purchasing LEDs.

If you’re designing a custom lighting setup, take the time to match your LED chip board, power supply and system to your goals. Whether you’re lighting up a kitchen, lounge, office or entertainment space, the right LED chip can transform your space.

Need help selecting the right LED chip for your next lighting project? Contact the ArcLED team for expert advice and a wide range of premium LED lighting products tailored to your needs.