Overview of WS2811 Addressable LEDs
The WS2811 LED is a very versatile IC, often used in various RGB lighting projects. WS2811 has three specifications: 5 V, 12 V, 24 V. We can choose the appropriate specification based on cost, performance, and design needs.
5V WS2811:
- It is mainly used in strings light, and each RGB LED is independent and can be addressed individually.
- Not only that, it can also be produced into independently controlled LED light strips, but the cost is relatively high. WS2812B is a more cost-effective choice for 5 volt LED light strips, because WS2812B integrates IC and LED into one. More convenient.
Strings Light
5V WS2811 LED Strip
12V WS2811：
- WS2811 is one of the most commonly used LED light strips, and three LEDs share one IC to be controlled. It is widely used.
- This design cannot be individually controlled and addressed, but it can provide cost-effective RGB lighting for medium-sized projects.
- The 12V system minimizes the voltage drop, making it suitable for long-distance lighting with stable brightness.
24V WS2811:
- Although WS2811 is sometimes produced as a 24V LED strip, it is not the best choice. The maximum voltage of this IC is 20V, so it is easy to be damaged in a 24V environment. If this is the case, we recommend using the DC24V UCS1903 LED strip type. Why recommend UCS1903? For more comparisons WS2811 Vs. UCS1903, please click here.
- For better performance and durability, we recommend using other ICs designed specifically for 24V systems.
Want to know more about the differences between 5V, 12V and 24V LED strips? Click here to learn more.
Choosing the Right Voltage for Your Project
Here’s a detailed comparison table for WS2811 5V, 12V, and 24V configurations:
Feature | WS2811 5V | WS2811 12V | WS2811 24V |
Voltage Drop | High; noticeable after ~2 meters | Moderate; noticeable after ~5 meters | Low; noticeable after ~10 meters |
Cost | High | Medium | Medium |
Application | Addressable LED strips and pixel string lights | LED strips (3 LEDs per control unit) | Not recommended; UCS1903 suggested |
Addressability | Individually addressable | 3 LEDs per control unit (not individually) | 6 LEDs per control unit (not individually) |
Brightness | Same brightness across all configurations | Same brightness across all configurations | Same brightness across all configurations |
Reliability | Reliable for short runs and pixel strings | Reliable for medium-length LED strips | Not reliable; WS2811 IC withstand voltage is 20V max |
Recommended Use | Best for pixel string lights or short projects | Best for cost-effective medium-distance LED strips | Avoid; UCS1903 IC is better for 24V setups |
Summary:
- WS2811 5V: Higher price, suitable for short distance use or addressable light string use; after 2m, voltage drop is limited.
- WS2811 12V: Highest frequency of use; affordable, suitable for medium distance use, voltage drop range is 5m.
- WS2811 24V: can achieve a low voltage drop of 10m but is unreliable as the WS2811 has a maximum voltage of 20 V. The UCS1903 is a suggested alternative to the 24 V system.