COB Lights

COB means chip-on-board — many LED chips bonded onto a single emitting surface, producing one crisp beam with sharp shadow definition. SMD mounts separate diodes across a board for softer, wider light. COB gives better beam control and typically higher CRI, which is why it is used for accent work.

For accenting artwork or a feature object, 15–24 degrees. For general wall washing, 36–60 degrees. Narrow beams create drama but need accurate aiming, so on a layout drawing we mark both the fixture position and the aiming target.

Specify CRI 90 or above for living spaces and retail, and 95 or above for galleries, art display and anywhere colour judgement matters. Accent lighting is exactly where low CRI shows up worst, because the eye compares the lit object against its surroundings.

They can be, but they are not the efficient choice for it. COB excels at focused, controlled light. For even ambient fill across a room, SMD downlights or linear profile give a smoother result for less money — most good schemes use both.

They concentrate more heat into a smaller area than SMD, so the heat sink and driver quality matter more. That is why the housing on a quality COB fixture is substantial. Ensure the ceiling void allows some airflow around the fixture and do not pack insulation directly against it unless the fixture is rated for it.