Thirty products, one voltage, zero compromise — our 24V COB LED strip range covers every colour type, every IP rating, and every room in the house from a single driver ecosystem. UK LED Lights stocks single colour, RGB, RGBW, and RGB CCT in 24V, with continuous runs up to 20 metres from one power point, FreeCut options you can trim at any point along the strip, and CRI 90+ across the entire range. This is the voltage that fits the most projects, works with the most accessories, and causes the fewest installation headaches.
Our 2026 24V COB collection spans 8mm to 12mm widths, IP20, IP67, and IP68 protection ratings, and warm white 2700K through to tuneable RGB CCT. Every strip ships from our Telford warehouse with free UK delivery. Need help choosing between single colour and RGBW, or sizing a driver for a multi-room project? Call 01952 370008 or email sales@ukledlights.co.uk.
24V COB · Single Colour · RGB · RGBW · RGB CCT · FreeCut · IP20 · IP67 · IP68 · 8mm–12mm Widths · CRI 90+ · Up to 20m Run · Trailing-Edge Dimmable · Bespoke Lengths · 30 Products · Free UK Delivery
Quick decision — which 24V COB strip do you need?
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Kitchen under-cabinet in one fixed white: Single colour 24V COB, warm white 3000K, IP20 — mount inside a slim aluminium profile, pair with a triac dimmable driver and trailing-edge dimmer.
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Bathroom mirror surround or shower niche: Single colour 24V COB in IP67 minimum, warm white 2700K. IP68 if the strip sits inside the shower tray zone.
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Living room that needs colour and white from one strip: RGBW 24V COB — full RGB effects plus a dedicated white channel for everyday illumination. WiFi controller for voice control through Alexa or Google Home.
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Bedroom with tuneable white that shifts from morning to evening: RGB CCT 24V COB — cool 6500K for waking up, warm 2700K for winding down, plus full colour when the mood calls for it.
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Home cinema or gaming setup — colour only: RGB 24V COB in IP20 — millions of colours, dot-free output, smooth transitions.
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Precision fit where standard cut marks leave gaps: 24V FreeCut COB — trim at any point, no fixed intervals, no dark ends.
Who 24V COB strip is for: Homeowners fitting kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, or living room lighting. Electricians and kitchen installers specifying residential and light commercial projects under 20 metres per run. Interior designers who need broad driver, controller, and profile compatibility from a single voltage platform. Anyone upgrading from older SMD strip to dot-free COB technology without rewiring existing 24V infrastructure.
Who 24V COB strip is NOT for: If your single continuous run exceeds 20 metres — a hotel corridor, long retail frontage, or commercial perimeter — you need 48V COB strip which reaches 30 metres from one power point without mid-run injection. If you need the absolute lowest cost per metre and dot visibility is not a concern, standard SMD 2835 strip is cheaper. If your project is purely 12V — caravan, campervan, or boat — our 24V strip is not compatible with 12V systems.
Buying mistakes to avoid with 24V COB strip:
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Connecting 24V strip to a 12V driver: The strip will not illuminate or will produce extremely faint, patchy light. Always match driver voltage to strip voltage exactly — 24V strip requires a 24V driver, no exceptions.
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Using a dimmable driver with RGB or RGBW 24V strip: Colour-changing COB strip requires a non-dimmable constant-voltage driver paired with a separate controller. Dimmable drivers interfere with the controller signal, causing flicker, colour drift, and shortened lifespan.
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Ordering IP65 for a permanent outdoor installation: IP65 covers surface splashes only — it will not survive sustained UK rainfall, frost-thaw cycles, or ground-level moisture. IP67 is the minimum for any 24V COB strip exposed to weather year-round.
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Powering strip while still on the reel: Coiled strip traps heat. The adhesive softens, LEDs overheat, and the strip suffers irreversible damage within minutes. Always uncoil, mount on a surface or inside a profile, then power on.
Jump to a section:
- Why is 24V the most popular voltage for COB LED strip?
- How far can 24V COB strip run without voltage drop?
- What colour options come in 24V COB strip?
- What is FreeCut 24V COB strip and when do you need it?
- Which IP rating should you choose for 24V COB strip?
- How do you install 24V COB LED strip step by step?
- What driver and dimmer works with 24V COB strip?
- How does 24V COB strip compare to 48V and 12V?
- What accessories and connectors do you need for 24V COB?
- Why buy 24V COB LED strip from UK LED Lights?
Why is 24V the most popular voltage for COB LED strip?
24V is the standard residential and light commercial voltage for LED strip because it typically offers the strongest balance of run length, component availability, and installation simplicity. The 24V ecosystem in 2026 has one of the widest selections of drivers, controllers, dimmers, connectors, and aluminium profiles of any strip voltage — meaning fewer compatibility headaches, faster sourcing, and lower overall project cost compared to 12V or 48V alternatives.
Three practical advantages make 24V the default choice for the majority of UK strip lighting projects:
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Run length covers most rooms: 24V COB strip delivers up to 20 metres of consistent brightness from a single power point. That comfortably covers a full kitchen perimeter (typically 6–10 metres), a complete bedroom ceiling cove (12–16 metres), a living room shelf circuit, or an entire bathroom installation — all without mid-point power injection or additional cabling.
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Component ecosystem is unmatched: Because 24V has been the dominant LED strip voltage for over a decade, every major manufacturer produces 24V-compatible drivers, controllers, and accessories. Brands like Meanwell, Integral LED, Miboxer, Skydance, and GLEDOPTO all have their deepest 24V product lines. This means you can source replacement parts years from now without difficulty — a significant advantage for permanent residential installations.
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Every colour type available: 24V is currently the only voltage where UK LED Lights stocks the full colour spectrum — single colour whites, RGB, RGBW, and RGB CCT. If you want tuneable white that shifts from 2700K to 6500K, or full colour-changing with a clean dedicated white channel, 24V is currently your only option in COB format from most UK suppliers.
| Advantage |
24V COB Strip |
Why It Matters |
| Maximum one-side run |
Up to 20 metres |
Covers most residential rooms without power injection |
| Driver availability |
Widest range of any voltage |
Easier sourcing, competitive pricing, simpler replacements |
| Controller compatibility |
WiFi, Bluetooth, RF, Zigbee, voice |
Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit integration |
| Colour options |
Single, RGB, RGBW, RGB CCT |
No other voltage covers all four in COB format |
| FreeCut available |
Yes — cut at any point |
Precision fitting without dark gaps at run ends |
| SELV classification |
Within BS7671 120V DC threshold |
Reduced shock risk when supplied from isolated driver |
| Profile compatibility |
8mm–12mm widths fit standard profiles |
No specialist wide profiles needed for most variants |
The 24V platform also falls within the SELV voltage threshold under BS7671 (120V DC ripple-free maximum), provided it is supplied from a suitably isolated, safety-rated driver. This system classification means significantly reduced shock risk under dry conditions — making 24V the preferred choice for residential installations where non-electricians may come into contact with connections during maintenance. For specific compliance questions on your project, call our technical team on 01952 370008.
How far can 24V COB strip run without voltage drop?
UK LED Lights 24V COB strip runs up to 20 metres from a single power point with no visible brightness reduction from start to finish. This maximum applies to one-side power — feeding from one end only. For runs longer than 20 metres, either add a mid-point power injection tap or switch to 48V COB strip, which reaches 30 metres from a single feed. Always use parallel wiring when connecting multiple 24V strip sections to one driver.
Voltage drop is the gradual reduction in available voltage along the length of any conductor. In practical terms, the far end of the strip appears dimmer than the end nearest the driver. The drop becomes visible to most people when brightness falls by roughly 10 percent or more.
Four factors determine how far your 24V run can reach before drop becomes noticeable:
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Wattage per metre: A 5W/m strip draws less current than a 14W/m strip over the same distance, so it can run further before voltage drop becomes visible. Lower wattage accent lighting has more run length headroom than high-output task lighting.
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Cable gauge between driver and strip: Use 0.75mm twin cable minimum for driver-to-strip distances under 10 metres. For distances over 10 metres, step up to 1.0mm or 1.5mm cable — the thicker conductor reduces resistance in the feed cable itself, preserving more voltage for the strip.
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Ambient temperature: Copper resistance increases with temperature. A strip installed inside an enclosed ceiling void in a warm kitchen runs slightly higher resistance than one mounted on an open wall in a cool utility room. The difference is marginal for most 2026 residential projects, but matters in commercial installs with long runs in heated spaces.
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Connection quality: Every soldered joint or solderless connector adds a tiny amount of resistance. Over multiple joins in a long run, this accumulates. For runs approaching 20 metres, minimise connection points — use continuous strip lengths rather than joining multiple short sections end to end.
If your project requires more than 20 metres on 24V, split into two or more sections wired in parallel back to the driver. Parallel wiring helps ensure each strip section receives the full 24V independently, rather than daisy-chaining in series where each connection compounds the drop. Email sales@ukledlights.co.uk with your room dimensions and we will plan the wiring layout for you.
What colour options come in 24V COB strip?
UK LED Lights stocks 24V COB strip in single colour warm white (2700K–3000K), natural white (4000K), cool white (6000K), full RGB colour-changing, RGBW with a dedicated white channel, and RGB CCT with tuneable white from 2700K to 6500K. The 24V platform is currently the only voltage in our 2026 COB range that offers every colour type — making it the default for projects where you want maximum choice without committing to a specific effect at the wiring stage.
Each colour type serves a different purpose. Choosing wrong costs time and money — here is how to match colour to project:
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Single colour warm white (2700K–3000K): Soft, amber-toned light similar to traditional incandescent bulbs. The top choice for kitchens, living rooms, bedrooms, and hospitality spaces in 2026. Pair with a triac dimmable driver for brightness control from full output down to approximately 5 percent.
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Single colour natural white (4000K): Balanced, neutral white. Preferred for bathrooms, home offices, retail displays, and anywhere colour accuracy matters — food preparation surfaces, makeup areas, product showcases. Natural white renders skin tones and food colours more accurately than warm white.
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Single colour cool white (6000K): Crisp, bright output with a slight blue undertone. Suited to garages, workshops, commercial kitchens, and industrial spaces where maximum visibility takes priority over atmosphere.
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RGB (24V): Millions of colour combinations via a dedicated controller. Ideal for mood lighting, home cinema surrounds, gaming setups, and decorative features. Important: RGB alone cannot produce clean white — it generates a cold, violet-tinged approximation. If you need usable white light from the same strip, choose RGBW or RGB CCT instead.
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RGBW (24V): Full RGB colour spectrum plus a dedicated warm white (3000K) or natural white (4000K) LED channel. One strip handles colour effects for evenings and accurate white for daily use — the most popular colour-changing option for residential rooms that serve dual purposes.
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RGB CCT (24V): The most versatile option in the 2026 24V range. RGB colour channels plus tuneable white that adjusts continuously from 2700K warm through to 6500K cool. Morning cool white for focus, evening warm white for relaxation, Saturday night colour for entertainment — all from one strip and one controller. Requires a 5-channel controller.
| Colour Type |
White Light Quality |
Colour Effects |
Width |
Best Room |
| Single colour |
Fixed — warm, natural, or cool |
None |
8–10mm |
Kitchen, bathroom, wardrobe |
| RGB |
No clean white |
Full spectrum |
8–10mm |
Cinema, gaming, decorative only |
| RGBW |
One fixed white (3000K or 4000K) |
Full spectrum |
12mm |
Living room, bedroom, bar |
| RGB CCT |
Tuneable 2700K–6500K |
Full spectrum |
12mm |
Open-plan, multi-use rooms |
What is FreeCut 24V COB strip and when do you need it?
FreeCut 24V COB strip can be trimmed at any point along its entire length — not just at fixed cut marks every 50mm or 100mm. Standard COB strip has pre-set cut intervals determined by the LED circuit design, and cutting between those marks damages the circuit and renders that segment dead. FreeCut removes this limitation entirely, allowing precision fitting to the exact millimetre for alcoves, shelving, joinery details, and any space where a dark gap at the end is unacceptable.
FreeCut matters most in three specific situations:
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Bespoke joinery and fitted furniture: A bookshelf alcove that measures 847mm, a wardrobe interior rail at 1,123mm, or a kitchen glass cabinet at 562mm — none of these align neatly with standard 50mm or 100mm cut intervals. FreeCut lets you trim to the exact internal dimension without a visible dark section at the end.
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Tight-fit aluminium profiles: When strip is mounted inside a recessed aluminium profile with sealed end caps, the internal usable length is typically 5–15mm shorter than the external profile measurement. Standard strip forced to the nearest cut mark may leave a noticeable unlit gap behind the end cap. FreeCut fills the channel edge to edge.
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Multi-section installations with visible joins: In a floating shelf display where four shelves of slightly different lengths each need their own strip section, FreeCut helps ensure every shelf is fully illuminated to the last millimetre. The visual consistency across shelves is immediately obvious compared to standard strip with varying unlit gaps.
UK LED Lights also offers a bespoke cutting service — send your measurements to sales@ukledlights.co.uk and we will cut and prepare your 24V FreeCut strips before dispatch. No on-site trimming, no wasted material, no risk of cutting in the wrong place.
Which IP rating should you choose for 24V COB strip?
Choose IP20 for dry interiors — kitchens, bedrooms, living rooms, offices. Choose IP67 for permanent outdoor installations and bathroom wet zones. Choose IP68 for ponds, fountains, and continuous water submersion. Do not use IP65 for any permanent outdoor 24V COB strip installation in UK conditions — IP65 covers surface splashes only and fails under sustained rainfall, frost-thaw cycling, and ground-level moisture exposure under BS7671 guidance.
The second digit of the IP rating tells you the water protection level — and getting it wrong is one of the most expensive mistakes in LED strip installation. Replacing a failed outdoor strip means removing the old run, cleaning the surface, re-mounting, and re-wiring. Choosing IP67 from the start costs marginally more per metre but avoids that entire process.
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IP20 (dry locations only): No water protection. Use in bedrooms, living rooms, wardrobes, home offices, commercial offices, and kitchens where the strip is mounted inside a profile away from direct water contact. IP20 strip is thinner, more flexible, and slightly easier to handle during installation. This is the default for approximately 70 percent of domestic 24V COB projects.
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IP67 (outdoor and bathroom wet zones): Withstands temporary immersion up to 1 metre for 30 minutes. Correct for garden borders, patio perimeters, decking edges, exterior architectural features, and bathroom Zones 1 and 2. The silicone sleeve or coating seals the entire strip surface against rain, condensation, and frost. In the 2026 UK LED Lights range, IP67 24V COB is available in single colour variants.
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IP68 (continuous submersion): Rated for permanent immersion beyond 1 metre. Required for pond edges, fountain interiors, water features, and any installation where the strip sits in standing water. Full silicone encapsulation adds width — IP68 24V COB measures approximately 15mm wide. Mount in wider recessed profiles or surface-mount directly.
For bathroom installations specifically: UK bathrooms are divided into zones under BS7671 wiring regulations. Zone 0 (inside the bath or shower tray) requires IP68. Zone 1 (above the bath to 2.25m height) requires IP67 minimum. Zone 2 (0.6m beyond Zone 1) should use IP67, though IP20 inside a fully sealed profile is sometimes acceptable. Outside all zones, IP20 is fine. If you are unsure which zone your planned strip location falls within, call 01952 370008 — our team can advise based on your bathroom layout.
How do you install 24V COB LED strip step by step?
Clean the surface, mount inside an aluminium profile, peel the adhesive backing in short sections, press firmly, wire to a correctly sized 24V driver, and test before making connections permanent. The entire process takes approximately 45 minutes to 2 hours for a typical kitchen or living room run depending on cable routing. Never power 24V COB strip while coiled — heat damage is immediate and irreversible.
Follow these steps for a professional-quality 24V COB strip installation in 2026:
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Measure and plan the layout: Mark the exact run length for each strip section. Identify the driver location — within 2 metres of the strip start is ideal to minimise feed cable voltage drop. For runs exceeding 5 metres or multi-section installations, plan parallel wiring back to a central driver rather than linking strips end to end in series.
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Calculate total wattage and select the driver: Multiply wattage per metre by the total run length. Add a minimum 20 percent headroom. Example: 6 metres of 14W/m single colour 24V COB = 84W. Add 20 percent = 100.8W minimum. Choose a 100W or 120W 24V driver. For RGB or RGBW strip, select a non-dimmable 24V constant-voltage driver and a separate dedicated controller.
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Prepare the mounting surface: Wipe the full length with isopropyl alcohol to remove dust, grease, and residue. This step is non-negotiable — the 3M VHB adhesive creates a permanent bond on clean, dry, degreased surfaces but will fail within weeks on oily, dusty, or freshly painted surfaces that have not been properly prepared.
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Install the aluminium profile: Fix the aluminium profile to the mounting surface using screws or the profile's own adhesive tape. The profile acts as a heatsink — drawing heat away from the COB chips — and protects the strip from physical damage. For under-cabinet kitchen installations, recessed profiles give the cleanest finish. For surface mounting, choose a profile with a flat back and screw-fix points.
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Mount the strip inside the profile: Peel the adhesive backing in 30cm sections — not all at once. Press each section firmly into the profile channel and hold for ten seconds. Do not stretch or bend the strip around tight corners. Use dedicated corner connectors from our accessories range for 90-degree turns.
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Wire the driver and connect: Mains input: brown for live, blue for neutral, green-yellow for earth (BS7671 colour coding). 24V output: red to positive, black to negative on the strip. For RGB or RGBW, the controller connects between driver and strip. Use 0.75mm cable minimum for feed runs under 10 metres, 1.0mm or 1.5mm for longer feed distances.
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Bare metal warning: Never mount 24V COB strip directly onto an uninsulated metal surface without a profile as intermediary. The PCB has exposed copper traces on the underside — direct contact with conductive metal (steel brackets, metal ducting, aluminium window frames) can cause a short circuit.
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Test the full installation: Power on and check for consistent brightness from the first centimetre to the last. For RGB or RGBW, cycle every colour channel. If the far end is dimmer, check feed cable gauge and consider a power injection point. If flickering occurs, verify the dimmer is trailing-edge — not leading-edge.
What driver and dimmer works with 24V COB strip?
Single colour 24V COB strip requires a 24V constant-voltage LED driver rated at a minimum of 120 percent of total strip wattage. For dimming, pair with a triac dimmable driver and a trailing-edge wall dimmer — not a leading-edge dimmer. RGB, RGBW, and RGB CCT 24V strip requires a non-dimmable 24V constant-voltage driver connected to a separate dedicated controller that handles colour, dimming, and effects independently.
Driver sizing is the most common point of failure in DIY 24V LED strip projects. An undersized driver overheats, trips thermal protection, and either shuts down intermittently or fails permanently. Oversizing wastes a few pounds on a larger driver but causes no technical problems — when in doubt, go bigger.
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Single colour dimmable (most popular residential setup): Choose a triac dimmable 24V LED driver and pair it with a trailing-edge wall dimmer. Leading-edge dimmers are the number one cause of flickering reported to our technical team — replacing one with a trailing-edge model costs approximately fifteen pounds and fixes the problem immediately. Budget approximately £25–£45 for a quality 24V triac driver in the 60W–150W range.
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Single colour non-dimmable: Use a standard 24V constant-voltage LED driver. The simplest configuration — driver powers the strip at fixed brightness, no dimmer or controller needed. Ideal for wardrobe interiors, under-shelf accent lighting, and commercial display cases where brightness adjustment is not required.
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RGB and RGBW (24V): Use a non-dimmable 24V constant-voltage driver feeding a separate RGB or RGBW controller. The controller handles colour mixing, dimming, scene selection, and effects. UK LED Lights stocks Miboxer, Skydance, and GLEDOPTO controllers with WiFi, Bluetooth, RF remote, Zigbee, and smart home options.
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RGB CCT (24V): Requires a 5-channel controller — three channels for RGB colour and two for the tuneable white. Not all controllers support 5-channel output. Our Skydance 5-in-1 range handles this configuration, as do select GLEDOPTO Zigbee units.
Driver sizing example for a 2026 kitchen refit: 8 metres of under-cabinet 24V COB at 10W/m = 80W total. Add 20 percent = 96W minimum. Choose a 100W or 120W triac dimmable 24V driver. See our full 24V LED driver range.
How does 24V COB strip compare to 48V and 12V?
24V is the mainstream residential voltage with the widest ecosystem and all colour types. 48V extends maximum run length to 30 metres but only comes in single colour and has fewer driver options. 12V is limited to approximately 5 metres per run and is primarily used for compact, low-power applications like caravan and boat lighting. For most UK home and light commercial projects in 2026, 24V is the practical default because it combines sufficient run length with the broadest component compatibility.
The choice between voltages comes down to three questions: how long is your run, what colour type do you need, and how easily can you source replacement parts?
| Specification |
12V COB Strip |
24V COB Strip |
48V COB Strip |
| Maximum one-side run |
Approximately 5 metres |
Up to 20 metres |
Up to 30 metres |
| Voltage drop rate |
Highest — drops fastest |
Standard |
Lowest — approximately half of 24V |
| Colour options available |
Single colour only |
Single, RGB, RGBW, RGB CCT |
Single colour only |
| FreeCut available |
No |
Yes |
No |
| Driver availability |
Limited specialist range |
Widest of any voltage |
Specialist 48V range |
| Controller ecosystem |
Basic |
WiFi, Bluetooth, RF, Zigbee, voice |
Limited |
| Typical use case |
Caravan, boat, compact display |
Residential, light commercial |
Long commercial runs, hospitality |
| IP ratings in range |
IP20 |
IP20, IP67, IP68 |
IP20, IP67 |
| BS7671 SELV threshold |
Within 120V DC limit |
Within 120V DC limit |
Within 120V DC limit |
When 24V is the right choice: any residential room, any colour type, any run up to 20 metres, any project where you want the easiest access to drivers, controllers, and replacement parts. When 48V is the right choice: single continuous runs over 20 metres in commercial, hospitality, or large residential spaces. When 12V is the right choice: mobile or compact installations with runs under 5 metres operating from a 12V DC supply.
Already wired for 24V from a previous LED installation? Your existing 24V drivers, connectors, and cable infrastructure work with our 2026 COB range — no rewiring needed. This backward compatibility makes 24V the lowest-friction upgrade path from older SMD strip to modern dot-free COB technology.
What accessories and connectors do you need for 24V COB?
A complete 24V COB strip installation requires the strip itself, a 24V LED driver, an aluminium profile with diffuser, solderless connectors or solder for joins, and end caps for sealing. For RGB or RGBW installations, add a dedicated controller. For dimming single colour strip, add a trailing-edge wall dimmer. UK LED Lights stocks every component and we specify complete systems — not just the strip — so you order once, receive everything in one delivery, and nothing is missing on install day.
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24V LED drivers: Constant-voltage, sized at 120 percent of total strip wattage. Triac dimmable for single colour dimming, non-dimmable for RGB and RGBW. See our full driver range.
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Aluminium profiles: Act as heatsink and physical protection. Surface-mount, recessed, corner, and suspended options in lengths from 1 metre to 3 metres. Choose a channel width that matches your strip width — 10mm for single colour, 12mm+ for RGBW and RGB CCT. Browse our LED strip profile collection.
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Solderless connectors: Clip-on connectors for tool-free strip-to-strip and strip-to-cable joins. Available in 2-pin (single colour), 4-pin (RGB), and 5-pin (RGBW/RGB CCT) configurations. Faster than soldering, adequate for non-permanent installations. For permanent installs, soldered connections are more reliable long-term.
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Controllers: Dedicated RGB, RGBW, or 5-channel RGB CCT controllers with WiFi, Bluetooth, RF remote, or Zigbee connectivity. Miboxer, Skydance, and GLEDOPTO available. See our controller range.
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End caps and sealant: Seal exposed cut ends to prevent short circuits and moisture ingress, particularly important for IP67 and IP68 installations.
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Extension cables and corner connectors: Pre-wired cables for bridging gaps between strip sections and 90-degree corner pieces for right-angle turns without bending the strip. Available in our COB accessories range.
Not sure what you need? Call 01952 370008 or email sales@ukledlights.co.uk with your project details — room dimensions, colour preference, number of runs, and whether you need dimming or smart control. We will specify the complete parts list so you order everything in one go.
Why buy 24V COB LED strip from UK LED Lights?
UK LED Lights is a specialist LED supplier based in Telford, Shropshire, holding one of the widest 24V COB LED strip selections available from any UK retailer in 2026 — 30 products covering every colour type, every IP rating, and FreeCut. We hold physical UK stock, ship free to mainland UK, cut bespoke lengths to your exact measurements, and provide direct technical support from our own in-house team — not a reseller reading from a manufacturer data sheet.
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30-product 24V COB range: Single colour in three white temperatures, RGB, RGBW, RGB CCT, FreeCut, IP20, IP67, IP68 — all 24V, all in stock, all from one supplier.
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UK stock, UK dispatch: Every product ships from our Telford warehouse — Unit D4, Stafford Park 4, TF3 3BA. No dropshipping from China, no six-week wait, no customs charges on arrival.
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Free UK delivery: Standard delivery free on all orders to mainland UK addresses, including COB strip, drivers, profiles, and accessories.
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Bespoke cut lengths: Send your exact measurements and we cut your 24V COB strip before dispatch. Precision fit, zero waste, no on-site trimming.
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Complete system specification: We do not just sell strip — we specify the driver, controller, profile, and connectors that work together for your specific project. One phone call, one order, one delivery, everything tested to be compatible.
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Technical support: Call 01952 370008 Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm, or email sales@ukledlights.co.uk. Our team has hands-on installation experience and can advise on wiring layouts, driver sizing, dimmer compatibility, and IP rating selection.
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5-year warranty on single colour COB strip: UK LED Lights single colour COB strip carries a 5-year warranty — one of the longest in the UK LED strip market in 2026.
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Trade and bulk pricing: Working on multiple rooms, a full-house renovation, or a commercial project? Contact us for volume pricing on 24V COB strip and accessories.
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24V is the most popular voltage in our COB range — compatible with the widest selection of dimmers, controllers, and drivers.
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We hold every 24V COB variant in UK stock — warm, natural, cool, RGB, RGBW, and RGB CCT ship the same day.
UK LED Lights Ltd · Company No: 12301805 · Unit D4, Stafford Park 4, Telford, Shropshire, TF3 3BA · 01952 370008 · sales@ukledlights.co.uk
How does 24V COB strip compare to 24V SMD strip?
COB and SMD are both available at 24V, but they produce noticeably different light quality — this table shows where each technology fits best.
| Feature |
24V COB Strip |
24V SMD Strip (2835/5050) |
| Light pattern |
Continuous dot-free line |
Visible individual dots |
| CRI |
90+ across all options |
80-90 depending on grade |
| Beam angle |
180 degrees |
120 degrees |
| FreeCut available |
Yes — cut at any point |
No — fixed intervals only |
| Colour options |
Single, RGB, RGBW, RGB CCT |
Single, RGB |
| Profile appearance |
Uniform glow through any diffuser |
Dots visible through milky diffuser |
| Cost per metre |
Higher |
Lower |
| Best for |
Visible runs, kitchens, profiles |
Hidden locations, budget installs |
24V COB strip is the upgrade path for any visible installation. If the strip is completely hidden, SMD saves cost without visible compromise. Call 01952 370008 for guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions — 24V COB LED Strip
Can I upgrade existing 24V SMD strip to 24V COB without rewiring?
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Yes — in most cases. If your existing installation uses a 24V driver with sufficient wattage headroom, you can swap the SMD strip for 24V COB strip without changing the driver, cabling, or connectors.
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Check the driver wattage rating against the new COB strip wattage per metre multiplied by your run length, plus 20 percent headroom. If the existing driver is large enough, connect and go.
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If upgrading from 2-pin single colour to 4-pin RGB or 5-pin RGBW, you will need new cable and a controller — the additional colour channels require more conductors than a single colour setup.
What is the minimum and maximum length I can order?
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Minimum order is typically 1 metre for standard reel stock. Bespoke cut lengths are available from shorter measurements — contact our team to confirm.
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Maximum continuous reel length varies by product — most 24V COB strips are supplied in 5-metre or 10-metre reels. For runs longer than the reel length, join sections using solderless connectors or solder, wired in parallel back to the driver.
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For precise lengths, use our bespoke cutting service. Email your measurements to sales@ukledlights.co.uk and we cut before dispatch.
Does 24V COB strip work with smart home systems in 2026?
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Yes — pair with a WiFi or Zigbee controller for integration with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit, Samsung SmartThings, or Home Assistant.
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Single colour strip supports voice-controlled on/off and dimming.
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RGB, RGBW, and RGB CCT strip supports full colour selection, scene presets, scheduling, and brightness control via voice or app.
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No dedicated hub required for most WiFi controllers — they connect directly to your 2.4GHz home network. Zigbee controllers require a compatible hub (Philips Hue bridge, SmartThings hub, or similar).
Is 24V COB LED strip safe to hardwire permanently?
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Yes. 24V DC from a safety-rated, isolated driver falls within the SELV voltage threshold under BS7671 (120V DC ripple-free maximum), making it suitable for permanent hardwired installation in residential and commercial properties.
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The mains-side connection (driver input) should be completed by a qualified electrician or competent person under Part P of the Building Regulations for permanently wired circuits.
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The low-voltage side (24V driver output to strip) can be completed by a competent DIYer using appropriate connectors and correct polarity.
How do I choose between RGBW and RGB CCT in 24V?
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Choose RGBW if you know which white temperature you want (warm 3000K or natural 4000K) and it will not change. Simpler controller requirement — 4 channels instead of 5.
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Choose RGB CCT if you want the ability to adjust white temperature throughout the day — cool white in the morning, warm white in the evening — alongside full colour effects. Requires a 5-channel controller.
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Price difference is marginal between the two in the 2026 range. The main practical difference is controller complexity and whether you value tuneable white flexibility.
Why should I avoid IP65 for outdoor 24V COB strip?
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IP65 protects against directed water jets — equivalent to a garden hose spray — but does not withstand sustained rainfall pooling on the strip surface.
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UK weather conditions include prolonged heavy rain, frost-thaw cycling that forces moisture through seals, and ground-level damp that wicks along the strip by capillary action. IP65 fails under all three.
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IP67 is the minimum rating for any 24V COB strip installed permanently outdoors in the UK. The additional cost per metre is small compared to the cost of replacing a failed outdoor installation.
Can I connect 24V COB strip to a 48V or 12V driver?
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No — driver voltage must match strip voltage exactly. Connecting 24V strip to a 48V driver will overvolt the strip, causing overheating, colour shift, and rapid failure. Connecting to a 12V driver will produce extremely dim or no light output.
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Always verify the driver output voltage printed on the driver label before connecting. 24V strip needs a 24V driver — this is non-negotiable.
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If you have an existing driver from a previous installation, check the label for output voltage and wattage. A 24V driver with sufficient wattage headroom works with any 24V COB strip.
What warranty covers 24V COB strip from UK LED Lights?
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Single colour 24V COB strip carries a 5-year warranty — one of the longest in the UK LED strip market in 2026. Check the specific product page for coverage details on RGB and RGBW variants.
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Warranty applies to manufacturing defects and premature LED failure under normal operating conditions.
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Warranty does not cover damage from incorrect installation (wrong voltage driver, coiled operation, bare metal mounting, or IP rating misuse). Follow the installation steps in this guide to protect your warranty.
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Contact our team on 01952 370008 if you have a warranty query — we handle returns and replacements directly from our Telford warehouse.
Can 24V COB strip be used in bathrooms?
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Yes — use IP67 rated 24V COB strip for bathroom zones 1 and 2 under BS7671. IP68 is required for zone 0 (inside the bath or shower tray). IP20 is acceptable outside all bathroom zones. Mount the driver outside the bathroom or in zone 3. All permanent bathroom wiring must be completed by a qualified electrician under Part P regulations.
How do you clean 24V COB LED strip?
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For strip inside an aluminium profile, clean the diffuser cover with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners, solvents, or high-pressure water. For IP67 or IP68 silicone-sleeved strip, wipe the surface gently with a damp cloth. Always disconnect power before cleaning. Dust accumulation on diffuser covers is the most common cause of reduced light output over time in 2026 installations.
Does 24V COB strip produce any UV light?
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24V COB strip produces negligible UV output — suitable for use near UV-sensitive materials including artwork, fabrics, and food products. The CRI 90+ rating across our 2026 range helps ensure accurate colour rendering without the UV component that can fade or damage sensitive materials over extended exposure.
Can I run 24V COB strip from a battery pack?
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Yes, provided the battery outputs regulated 24V DC. Portable 24V battery packs are available for temporary installations such as market stalls, event displays, and caravan lighting. Calculate total strip wattage to determine required battery capacity. A 5-metre run at 10W/m draws 50W — a 100Wh battery provides approximately 2 hours of full-brightness operation.
What is the difference between COB and SMD LED strip?
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COB (chip-on-board) embeds hundreds of tiny LED chips per metre under a continuous phosphor layer, producing a completely dot-free, uniform light line. SMD (surface-mount device) places individual LED packages at regular intervals, creating visible bright spots separated by darker gaps. COB is the preferred technology for any 2026 installation where the strip or its reflection is visible.
Can 24V COB strip be used for staircase lighting?
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Yes — 24V COB strip is widely specified for staircase tread nosing and handrail lighting in 2026. Mount inside a slim aluminium profile at each step edge for safety illumination. The 24V SELV voltage (with isolated driver) makes it safe for areas where people regularly touch the fitting. Use motion sensors or a smart controller for automated activation as you approach the staircase.
How much does 24V COB strip cost to run per month?
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Running costs depend on wattage per metre and daily usage. A 6-metre kitchen under-cabinet run at 10W/m draws 60W. At 2026 UK electricity rates of approximately 24.5p per kWh, running that installation for 5 hours per day costs roughly £2.20 per month. COB strip uses significantly less energy than halogen under-cabinet lights or traditional fluorescent tubes.
Does 24V COB strip work with motion sensors?
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Yes — connect a PIR motion sensor or microwave sensor between the driver and the strip. 12V/24V compatible sensors trigger the strip automatically when movement is detected — practical for wardrobes, pantries, staircases, and hallways. Most sensors offer adjustable sensitivity, time delay, and daylight threshold settings. Browse our accessories range for compatible sensors.
Can I mix warm white and natural white 24V COB strip in the same room?
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Yes — this is common practice in 2026 kitchen designs. Natural white 4000K under cabinets for task lighting and warm white 3000K above the wall units or in display cabinets for ambient warmth. Each strip section runs on its own driver circuit for independent control. The visible transition between colour temperatures is a deliberate design choice, not a defect.
Does UK LED Lights cut 24V COB strip to bespoke lengths before dispatch?
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Yes — send your exact measurements to sales@ukledlights.co.uk and our team will cut and prepare your 24V COB strip to specification before shipping. Bespoke cutting is available across all colour types and IP ratings in the 2026 range. No minimum order quantity, no additional cutting charge.
Is 24V COB strip suitable for retail display lighting?
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Yes — CRI 90+ 24V COB strip in natural white 4000K is widely used for retail display cases, shelving, and product showcases in 2026. The dot-free output creates a premium visual impression, and the high CRI helps ensure product colours appear accurate under the light. Mount inside slim aluminium profiles for a professional, concealed installation.
Browse our full 24V COB LED strip range above, or contact our Telford-based technical team for help specifying the right strip, driver, controller, and profile for your project.
01952 370008 · sales@ukledlights.co.uk · All COB Strip · LED Drivers · Controllers · LED Profiles · Accessories
Last reviewed: March 2026 — UK LED Lights technical team, Telford, Shropshire. Specifications current as of 2026.
🏭 UK LED specialist, Telford, Shropshire · ☎️ 01952 370008 · 🚚 Free UK delivery
