When you want to buy RGB LED Strip, you may have encountered RGBW, RGBWW, RGBCW, RGBIC, RGBCCT… Why are there so many types? What’s the difference? We will discuss these differences.
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RGB, RGBW, RGBWW, RGBIC, and RGBCCT represent the color changes of LED light strips. Different combinations of diodes make the lighting effects controlled by LED strips unique. What it means to note is that there are differences in the color tone of white between RGB, RGBW, and RGBWW. Other LED light strips cannot produce multi-color effects like RGBIC LED light strips.
For more comparison of RGB Vs. RGBW Vs. RGBWW LED Strip, please see this blog linked below.
In this blog we focus on RGBIC Vs. RGBWW Vs. RGBCCT LED Strip.
RGB LED Strip Anatomy
RGB LED light strips are flexible circuit boards with densely arranged SMD LEDs. Every cut interval anatomy is displayed as the picture shows. Usually, the width of the RGB LED Strip can be customized. 5/8/10 width is optional. LED strips have an adhesive backing that supports surface mounting. They are bendable, durable, energy-saving, and suitable for various scene lighting.

Suntech Lite has a unique LED strip PCB design. To learn more about flexible LED strip PCBs, please click here.
What Do The Letters of LED Strips Stand For?
The letters on the LED strip define the color of the light emitted.
The meaning of the abbreviation letters:
RGB-red, green, blue
W-white
WW-White and Warm White
CW-cold white
CCT (Correlated Color Temperature) – cool white (CW) and warm white (WW)
IC – integrated circuit (built-in independent chip)
So now you should be able to understand the meaning of the following abbreviations:
RGBIC: A three-channel LED chip with Red, Green, and Blue + an external IC independent Chip
RGBWW: One five-channel chip with Red, Green, Blue, White and Warm White.
RGBCCT: Five-channel chip with Red, Green, Blue, Cold White, and Warm White.
RGBWW LED Strip

RGBWW LED strips, also known as RGB-WW lights, offer a unique lighting experience with their configuration of red, green, blue, white, and warm white LEDs.
Whether formed by a 5-in-1 chip or a combination of a 3-in-1 RGB chip with separate white and warm white LED chips, the distinct feature of RGBWW lies in its ability to infuse a yellowish tone into the white hue, resulting in a warm and inviting lighting effect.
This makes RGBWW LED strips perfect for adding a soft, cozy touch to spaces like bedrooms or any area where a warm and comforting atmosphere is desired.
RGBIC LED Strip

RGBIC LED strips offer a vibrant and captivating lighting experience by combining a 3-in-1 RGB LED with an external independent chip. Unlike RGB and RGBW LED strips, RGBIC has the unique ability to display multiple colors simultaneously on a single strip to create a mesmerizing flowing rainbow effect.
With over 16 million color options available, RGBIC provides a wide range of color variety for versatile home decoration. However, it’s important to note that RGBIC LED strips are slightly more expensive compared to RGB and RGBW lights due to their advanced technology and multi-color capabilities.
Say goodbye to single-color limitations and embrace the dynamic and immersive lighting provided by RGBIC LED strips.
Govee’s LED strip products are very popular in the market, but people are often confused about their products, such as M1 and RGBIC. We explain Govee M1 and RGBIC LED strips in detail here, welcome to click and check it out.
RGBCCT LED Strip

RGBCCT LED strips provide a versatile lighting solution with the ability to adjust the color temperature, offering a range of white shades from warm to cool. With five chips in one LED, including RGB and CCT (Correlated Color Temperature), RGBCCT allows you to customize the white lighting to suit your preferences.
Unlike fixed warm white or cool white options, RGBCCT gives you the flexibility to switch between these two temperatures for the desired result. If you’re seeking customizable white lighting, RGBCCT LED strips are the perfect choice, offering yellowish warm tones to bluish cool tones of white.
Although slightly more expensive than RGB and RGBW LED strips, the RGBCCT option provides extensive color adjustment possibilities. Make it ideal for projects that require regular transitions between cool white, white, and warm white lighting.
What’s the Difference: RGBIC Vs. RGBWW Vs. RGBCCT LED Strip

The table below allows us to quickly understand the comparison of RGBIC Vs. RGBWW Vs. RGBCCT LED strip.
Products | RGBIC | RGBWW | RGBCCT |
---|---|---|---|
Colors | Red, Green, Blue | Red, Green, Blue, White, Warm white | Red, Green, Blue, Cool White, Warm white |
Chips | 3 in 1 + external IC | 5 in 1 or RGB+2 White | 5 in 1 + CCT Chip or RGB + 2 White |
Color Output | 16M(2653) | 4.3B(2654) | 4.3B(2654) |
Color Shifting | Multiple | Multiple | Multiple |
Brightness | Ultra-Bright | Ultra-Bright | Ultra-Bright |
Adjustable | |||
Price | Expensive | Medium | Expensive |
Table. RGBIC Vs. RGBWW Vs. RGBCCT LED strip
RGB Vs. RGBIC
Here are some of the differences:
RGBIC Strip Lights
- Multiple IC chip control
- Can display multiple colors at one time
- Used to create more lighting effects
- Ultra bright
RGB Strip Lights
- No (IC) independent chip control
- Displays one single RGB or white color at a time
- Can be cut to size at copper markings
- General standard brightness
Deciding between RGBIC and RGB LED strip lights?
When it comes to task lighting in functional areas of your home, opting for an RGBIC strip light may not be necessary. Standard RGB or white color temperature LED strip lights are typically sufficient for areas such as under kitchen cabinets, bathrooms, or garages.
However, if you’re looking for something distinctive and eye-catching for a bedroom, signage, or any decorative application, the RGBIC product is an excellent choice. It adds a touch of uniqueness and flair to your space, making it stand out in a vibrant and captivating way.
RGBIC Vs. RGBWW
RGBIC LED Strip Advantages:
- RGBIC LED strips provide individual control of each LED.
- Precise color selection and advanced lighting effects
- Color chasing and pixel-level animation.
RGBWW LED Strip Advantages:
- RGB colors combined with warm white LEDs.
- Provide a comfortable and warm lighting atmosphere.
How to Choose RGBIC or RGBWW LED Strip?
If you are looking for vibrant and dynamic lighting with complex color changes and mesmerizing effects, RGBIC LED strips are the ideal choice. They are perfect for decorative applications, bedrooms or signage where you can make a bold visual statement.
On the other hand, if you want a warm and cozy lighting atmosphere, RGBWW LED strip lights are the way to go. They’re perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, or any space that needs a soft, welcoming vibe.
RGBCCT Vs. RGBWW
Color Temperature Adjustment
- RGBCCT LED strips can adjust the color temperature of white light, ranging from cool white to warm white.
- RGBWW LED strips, on the other hand, combine RGB colors with white and warm white LEDs to provide a fixed color temperature.
Cost
Due to the added function of adjusting color temperature, RGBCCT LED light strips tend to be more expensive than RGBWW LED light strips. When choosing between these two options, consider your budget.

Which One is Better, RGBCCT or RGBWW?
If you need the flexibility to adjust the color temperature of your white light and want to provide versatile lighting for different areas of your home, RGBCCT LED strips are the best choice. They’re perfect for spaces like kitchens and bathrooms where specific white lighting preferences may differ.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a warm and cozy lighting atmosphere, especially in areas such as bedrooms or living rooms, RGBWW LED strips provide a fixed warm white color temperature to create a soothing and welcoming environment.
How to Connect RGBIC, RGBWW, or RGBCCT LED Strip to A Power Supplier?
Prepare Materials:
LED Strips: Choose a suitable LED strip according to your required specifications such as length, color and type (e.g. RGB, RGBIC, RGBCCT).
LED Controller: Choose an LED controller that is compatible with your LED strip type. Prices range from $10 to $50.
Power supply: The voltage range is 12V to 24V DC, depending on the specific LED strip and controller. Prices usually range from $10 to $30.
Connection Steps:
Step 1: Prepare LED Strips
If needed, make sure to cut the LED strip to the required length.
Step 2: Connect the LED Strip to the Controller
Identify the input terminals on the LED strip and the output terminals on the LED controller. Typically, these terminals are labeled “+/-” or “IN/OUT”.
Step 3: Connect power to the LED controller
Connect the positive and negative terminals of the power supply to the corresponding input terminals of the LED controller, making sure the polarity is properly aligned.
Step 4: Power on and test
Check all connections carefully to make sure they are tight and properly aligned. Use the controls on the LED controller to change the color, brightness, or any other available setting to test the LED strip.
Precautions:
– Make sure the voltage ratings of the LED strip, LED controller and power supply are compatible to avoid damaging components.
– Do not exceed the maximum power capacity of the power supply to avoid overloading the LED strip.
– Handle all electrical connections with care to ensure they are properly insulated and protected to prevent short circuits or electric shock.
– If you are unsure about the installation process, consult a professional electrician or refer to the manufacturer’s support resources for guidance.
Please watch the video below for details.
Video: Connect RGBIC, RGBWW, or RGBCCT LED Strip to A Power Supplier