LEDs Per Metre vs Pixels Per Metre
In the world of digital and addressable lighting, understanding the difference between LEDs per metre and pixels per metre is essential. These two terms are often confused, but they describe completely different aspects of a lighting product. Knowing how they relate affects brightness, control, and system performance.
LEDs vs Pixels: What’s the Difference?
LEDs are what actually illuminate. Pixels, on the other hand, define how many individual control points you have along your LED strip. Each pixel contains an integrated circuit (IC) that allows it to receive unique data, controlling brightness and colour independently.
There are two main configurations:
- 1 LED = 1 Pixel – Addressable ICs are built into each LED, like WS2815 or GS8208. A 60 LED/m tape means 60 pixels/m.
- Multiple LEDs = 1 Pixel – External ICs such as WS2811 or TM1814 control groups of LEDs. For example, our WS2814 high-output tape has 120 LEDs and 20 pixels per metre. Each pixel drives six LEDs.
Why Pixel Density Matters
Choosing between high or low pixel density depends on the application. A 144 pixel/m strip offers very fine control, ideal for wearables or props viewed up close. But for architectural, commercial, or live event installations, lower pixel densities like 20 or 30 pixels/m are far more efficient.
Voltage and Power Considerations
External IC designs such as WS2814 often operate at higher voltages like 24V. This greatly reduces voltage drop, allowing longer continuous runs and simpler installations. 5V products, like SK6812 RGBW, offer higher resolution but shorter runs due to higher current draw.
Example comparison:
- 5V SK6812 RGBW – 144 pixels/m = approx. 5.3m per controller output
- 24V WS2814 RGBW – 20 pixels/m = approx. 38.4m per controller output
That’s over seven times the run length from the same controller!
System Efficiency with Fewer Pixels
Controllers such as the Advatek A4S or MADRIX Nebula handle up to six universes per port. By using products with fewer pixels per metre, you can cover much greater distances with fewer controllers and power supplies. This is ideal for environments like conference rooms, showrooms, and architectural façades where extremely fine pixel control isn’t necessary.
Choosing the Right Product
If your goal is smooth gradients, efficient power distribution, and scalable installations, opt for 24V multi-LED pixel products such as our WS2814 RGBW tape. For high-detail or small-scale designs, 5V single-LED pixel types are perfect.
LEDs Per Metre vs Pixels Per Metre: Conclusion
Understanding the relationship between LEDs per metre and pixels per metre helps you balance visual quality, cost, and system efficiency. At envisio, we design lighting systems that make the most of these technologies, whether it’s an interactive art piece, an architectural installation, or a commercial project.
Key Terms & Definitions
- LEDs per metre: The total number of light-emitting diodes per metre of tape.
- Pixels per metre: The number of individually controllable sections per metre.
- IC (Integrated Circuit): The microchip controlling data and colour signals for each pixel.
- Voltage Drop: Reduction in voltage along the tape due to current draw; mitigated by using 24V systems.
- Universe: A DMX data segment containing 512 channels of control.
