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.

Spec Sheet - APA102-144-5050SMD

Select Length:	3.28ft (1 meter) (Base), 6.56ft (2 meters), 16.4ft (5 meters), 4.1ft (1.25 meters)
Select PCB Color :	White Background (Base), Black Background (Base)
Select PCB Width:	12mm (0.47in) (Base)
Select Waterproof Rating:	Non-Waterproof IP20 - Adhesive Back (Base), Surface Glued IP65 - Adhesive Back, Underwater IP68 - Adhesive Back, Outdoor Silicone Tube IP67 - Adhesive Back
Availability	In Stock
Condition	Brand New

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)

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