Test Result Preview
Manufacturer’s Product Description
The COB LED strip is 2.5 m long and, according to the manufacturer, features 1,200 LEDs, or 480 LEDs per meter. The COB design creates a largely continuous line of light in which individual light points are barely visible to the naked eye.
With a width of 8 mm, the LED strip can, according to the product specifications, be installed in LED profiles with a corresponding interior width. The manufacturer specifies a luminous flux of 1,050 lm/m with a power consumption of 10.5 W/m.
The specified color temperature of 2,700 K corresponds to a warm white light. The manufacturer specifies the color rendering index ( CRI ) as 90.
The back features a self-adhesive 3M tape for mounting. According to the product specifications, the LED strip is dimmable and can be used with a suitable PWM controller or dimmable transformer.
Advantages
- Only 8 mm wide, subtle indirect lighting
- Warm white light at 2700 K
- Dimmable
Disadvantages
- Only one white tone (warm white)
First Impression
Packaging and Contents
Here, we take a closer look at the packaging. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor. In addition, of course, adequate protection of the product must be ensured. Is the contents of the package complete, and does the manufacturer make it as easy as possible for me to use the product right away?
Here, we take a closer look at the packaging. Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor. In addition, of course, adequate protection of the product must be ensured. Is the contents of the package complete, and does the manufacturer make it as easy as possible for me to use the product right away?
Show moreCriterion
Comment
Score Achieved*
Product protection
The box is sturdy; the product is adequately protected
Points
Sustainability of Packaging
Unnecessary packaging waste has been eliminated; the plastic wrap protects the product components
Points
Package Contents & Scope
Complete
Points
Instructions for use
The product is self-explanatory
Points
TOTAL
98
Points
Weighting: 20%
*The maximum score is 100 points
The product was delivered in a compact paper bag sized to fit the roll of LED strip. Inside was the rolled-up and separately packaged LED strip.
No user manual was included, but safety instructions were provided with the product. The basic handling of the LED strip was largely self-explanatory during the practical test.
First Time in Hand
Product Workmanship and Appearance
Before moving on to the practical test, we’ll take a close look at the products’ build quality. How high-quality are the materials used? Are the feel and appearance satisfactory?
Before putting it to the test, we take a close look at the product’s build quality. How high-quality are the materials used? Are the feel and appearance satisfactory?
Show moreCriterion
Comment
Score Achieved*
Visual appearance
Attractive design
Points
Workmanship
Very good build quality
Points
Stability
Very stable
Points
Product Sustainability
No information provided
Points
TOTAL
95
Points
Weighting: 20%
*The maximum score is 100 points
Upon first inspection, the narrow and delicate design of the LED strip is immediately noticeable. The adhesive strip attached to the back is neatly integrated and barely visible when viewed from the front.
Upon initial inspection, the LED strip proved to be flexible and could be bent without noticeable resistance. With its narrow width and flat design, the LED strip has an overall compact and unobtrusive appearance.
Here’s what our hands-on test revealed
Does the manufacturer live up to its advertising claims?
Our hands-on test carries the highest weighting. Here, the product must undergo a wide variety of criteria and tests. We evaluate the features and product claims of the test item.
Our hands-on test carries the highest weighting and is therefore the most important factor. Here, the product must undergo a wide variety of criteria and tests. We evaluate the features and product claims of the test item.
Show moreCriterion
Comment
Score Achieved*
Light intensity at various dimming settings
Smooth gradation, logical steps/soft transitions
Points
Heat generation at maximum brightness
Hardly any heat noticeable
Points
Length and flexibility
Good length; very flexible due to its narrow width
Points
Adhesion
Sticks or adheres very well
Points
Even light distribution
Uniform and pleasant light
Points
OVERALL
98
Points
Weighting: 45%
*The maximum score is 100 points
The LED strip was tested in a practical evaluation for light intensity, dimmability, heat generation, flexibility, and adhesion.
When testing various dimming levels, the light intensity could be adjusted over a wide range. The transitions between the different settings were smooth and without noticeable changes in brightness. Light output remained uniform at both low and maximum settings.
Heat generation was also tested at maximum brightness. During the test period, only minimal warming of the LED strip was observed.
With a length of 2.5 m and its flexible design, the LED strip was easy to handle and adapt to the surfaces used in the test. It was also able to follow slight curves and varying contours without significantly impairing its usability.
The adhesive strip on the back also performed well in practical testing. The LED strip adhered evenly to the tested surfaces and remained in place throughout the test period without any noticeable peeling.
When turned on, the light was distributed evenly along the entire length of the LED strip. Individual light points were barely visible to the naked eye, resulting in a largely continuous line of light.
Overall, the LED strip demonstrated uniform light output, easily adjustable brightness, and straightforward handling and installation in the practical test.
Test Plan
You can find a detailed overview of the evaluation criteria for the practical portion of the test, as well as the point distribution, here. If you are also interested in the evaluation of our other test criteria, please read our document on the evaluation process.
Value for the Money
Finally, we examine how the product compares to the competition. Can it compete with the competition in terms of price and quality? Would we generally recommend purchasing it?
Finally, we examine how the product stacks up against the competition. Can it compete with the competition in terms of price and quality? Would we generally recommend purchasing it?
Show moreCriterion
Comment
Score Achieved*
Value for money
Very good performance in the lower price range
Points
TOTAL
90
Points
Weighting: 15%
*The maximum score is 100 points
Prices for comparable products on the internet range up to €20. Very affordable products areavailablestarting at€11. At€13.99,Innovate’sdimmable LED stripsare currently inthe lower price segment. The value for money is rated as “very good.” This rating takes into account both the high quality and performance as well as the price in the lower segment, resulting in a very good overall value .
Overall Result
Weighting
Score*
1. Packaging & Contents
20%
Points
2. Product Workmanship & Appearance
20%
Points
3. In practical testing
45%
Points
4. Value for Money
15%
Points
TOTAL
Points
*The maximum score is 100 points
