What makes the APA102 strip better than a WS2812B strip?

APA102 uses two wires (data and clock) for communication, allowing for much higher data and PWM refresh rates. This makes it superior for video applications and high-speed effects, as it's not dependent on precise signal timing like the single-wire WS2812B.

Why is this 144 LEDs/m strip more expensive than others?

The ultra-high density of 144 LEDs and 144 individual ICs per meter requires a more complex manufacturing process and more components, enabling the incredibly smooth, detailed lighting effects that lower-density strips cannot achieve.

What kind of controller do I need for this LED strip?

You need an addressable LED controller that supports a clocked SPI protocol (with separate Data and Clock outputs). A standard 4-pin RGB controller will not work with this strip.

How do I power a 5-meter roll of this strip?

A 5-meter roll can draw up to 225W. You'll need a powerful 5V power supply (at least 280W) and must inject power at both ends and potentially in the middle to prevent voltage drop, which causes color shifts and dimming.

How finely can I cut this strip?

This strip offers maximum flexibility and can be cut between any two LEDs, allowing for precise length customization for your project.

Which waterproof rating should I choose for my bathroom?

For areas with potential splashes but no direct immersion, like above a vanity, IP65 is suitable. For inside a shower or areas with heavy water exposure, IP67 or IP68 is recommended.

APA102 RGB DC5V 144LEDs/m Addressable RGB Led Strip - 1m/3.28 ft per roll

Name: APA102 RGB DC5V 144LEDs/m Addressable RGB Led Strip - 1m/3.28 ft per roll
Brand: SuperLightingLED
SKU: APA102-144-5050SMD
Price: 19.98 CAD
Availability: InStock

Model: APA102-144-5050SMD Review stars

0.0 (0 Reviews) Various options in stock

Starting at: Can.$60.71 Can.$28.2254% off

Qty Discounts Off Price
1-4 Can.$28.22	5-9 Can.$27.65	10-14 Can.$26.80	15+ Can.$25.68
* Discounts may vary based on options below

Select Specifications:

Select PCB Width:

12mm (0.47in)

Select PCB Color :

Select Length:

Select Waterproof Rating:

Qty: -+

Free shipping over $299Ships via DHL / UPSWarranty covered

Accept the project customization, please contact us for commercial offers and technical support.

Product Information

Experience unparalleled smoothness and control with the APA102 RGB Addressable LED Strip, featuring an ultra-high density of 144 LEDs per meter. This strip is engineered for professional and high-demand applications where fluid animation and perfect color fidelity are essential. Unlike single-wire protocols, the APA102 IC utilizes separate data and clock lines, enabling a much higher refresh rate and robust signal integrity. This eliminates flicker, making it the superior choice for video applications, persistence-of-vision (POV) displays, and complex, fast-moving lighting effects. Each of the 144 LEDs is individually controllable, offering granular command over your creative vision. Whether you're building a custom video screen, an immersive art installation, or high-end architectural lighting, this strip delivers the performance and precision you need.

Key Features

Ultra-High LED Density

With 144 individually addressable LEDs per meter, this strip produces incredibly smooth color gradients and highly detailed animations without gaps or spotting.

High-Speed Dual-Signal Control

The APA102 IC uses separate data and clock lines (SPI) for faster, more reliable data transmission and a higher PWM refresh rate, preventing flicker when filmed.

True Individual Pixel Control

Each 5050 SMD LED contains its own APA102 driver, allowing every single LED to be controlled as an independent pixel for maximum creative freedom.

Project-Ready Customization

Choose from black or white PCB backgrounds, multiple reel lengths, and four waterproofing levels (IP20 to IP68) to perfectly match your project's requirements.

Product Specifications

Parameter	Details
Model	APA102-144-5050SMD
Input Voltage	DC5V
Power Consumption	45 W/meter max
LED Resource	SMD 5050 RGB LED
LED Quantity	144 LEDs/meter
IC Type	APA102 (1 IC drives 1 LED)
IC Quantity	144 ICs/meter
Color Depth	8-bits per color (24-bit for RGB)
PCB Width	12mm (0.47in)
PCB Color	White / Black (Selectable)
Waterproof Rating	Non-Waterproof (IP20), Surface Glued (IP65), Silicone Tube (IP67), Underwater (IP68) - Selectable
Colors	Full Color RGB
Cutability	Every LED is cuttable
Connectors	4-pin JST-SM connector on each end, plus 2-pin power injection wires
Length	1m/3.28ft, 2m/6.56ft, 5m/16.4ft (customizable)

Application Scenarios

High-Fidelity Media Displays The flicker-free, high-density performance is perfect for creating custom video panels or a dynamic roll led screen for advertising. It's also ideal for DIY ambient TV backlighting systems that sync with on-screen content for an immersive viewing experience.

Architectural & Theatrical Lighting Generate perfectly smooth, flowing color gradients along walls, in coves, or on stage sets. The high density ensures a continuous line of light, eliminating the distracting dots visible on lower-density strips, creating a professional and polished look.

How to Install & Use This LED Strip

If needed, cut the strip to your desired length along the designated cut line between any two LEDs.
Connect the 4-pin JST connector to a compatible controller that supports both Data (DAT) and Clock (CLK) signals. We recommend our SPI and Programmable controller for best results.
Connect the controller to an appropriate 5V power supply. Ensure your power supply can handle the total wattage of the strip length you are using (see Power Consumption chart).
Peel the adhesive backing and firmly press the strip onto the prepared surface.

⚠ Precautions

Voltage Drop: This is a DC5V strip with very high power consumption (45W/m). To maintain consistent brightness and color, power must be injected every 2-3 meters. Use the separate red (+) and black (-) wires at both ends of the strip for this purpose.
Heat Dissipation: For long-term use at high brightness, installing the strip in an aluminum channel is recommended to help dissipate heat and prolong its lifespan.

Power Consumption Reference

The following are maximum power values with all LEDs at full white brightness. We recommend a power supply with at least 20% more capacity than the calculated total wattage to ensure stable performance and longevity.

Length	Power	Recommended Driver
1 meter (3.28 ft)	45W	> 56W DC5V Power Supply
1.25 meters (4.1 ft)	56.25W	> 70W DC5V Power Supply
2 meters (6.56 ft)	90W	> 112W DC5V Power Supply
5 meters (16.4 ft)	225W	> 281W DC5V Power Supply

What's in the Box

✓1 x APA102 144 LEDs/m RGB LED Strip (in your selected length, PCB color, and waterproof rating)

Reviews

Customer Experience

Your feedback is important to us! Share your thoughts and photos with other customers.

Write a Review & Upload Photos

Downloads

Files for APA102-144-5050SMD

PDFAPA102-144-5050SMD product data sheetFull specifications, dimensions, cut points, wiring and IP options — the same details shown on this page, laid out for printing and engineering review.PDF · generated from the current product page · opens in a new tabOpen PDF

Need this page for a project file or an engineering check? Click Open PDF, then save or print it from your browser. For CAD drawings, IES files or a signed test report, contact our engineers and quote the model number.

Images

These images were taken with Canon EOS 5D Mark IV and the studio light source is provided by Ra 98's full spectrum LED strip to realistically reproduce the colors of the item itself. All copyrights are created by the superlightingled team, please feel free to browse and download if you are a registered user!

LED Strip Light Guide

Common questions about this type of product, answered against this model’s own options. For full figures see the specification above or the spec sheet for this model.

Which controller does this LED strip light need?

Addressable LED strip lights take a data signal, so they need an SPI (pixel) controller that supports this IC — an ordinary RGB controller will not drive them. Data flows one way: connect the controller to the input end marked with the arrow. Wiring addressable LED strip lights

Do I need power injection?

5 V addressable LED strip lights lose voltage fastest, so longer runs need power fed in at both ends and at intervals along the run; 12 V and 24 V versions carry further. Keep the data line short between controller and first pixel. Choosing an addressable LED strip light

Which waterproof rating should I choose?

Available on this model: Underwater IP68 - Adhesive Back · Outdoor Silicone Tube IP67 - Adhesive Back · Surface Glued IP65 - Adhesive Back · Non-Waterproof IP20 - Adhesive Back. IP20 is for dry indoor use, IP65 handles splashes, IP67 suits outdoor and wet areas, IP68 is for continuous submersion. Choosing a waterproof rating

Can I cut it to length?

Yes. Cut only on the marked cut lines between the copper pads — the cut interval for this model is on its spec sheet. Rejoin with solder or a solderless connector. Cutting LED strip lights · we can also cut to length and fit your connector before shipping: custom LED strip light assembly.

What size power supply do I need?

Take the watts per metre from the specification above, multiply by the length you are running, then add about 25% headroom. Power calculation guide · Choosing a power supply

Will it fit an aluminium profile, and how dense are the LEDs?

PCB width 12mm (0.47in). Choose a profile whose inner width is at least the PCB width; denser LEDs give a smoother line close to a diffuser. LED aluminium profiles

Complete your setup

Picked for this model from items in stock.

Often bought with this itemFrom real orders placed in the last 24 months