Table of Contents
When it comes to addressable LED strip lighting, the choice of LED driver IC plays a crucial role in achieving vibrant and dynamic lighting effects. In this blog post, we will delve into a detailed comparison of four LED driver ICs: WS2814 vs TM1814 vs UCS2904 vs UCS7604. By exploring their features and specifications, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of these ICs and help readers make informed decisions for their lighting projects. Which one will light up your project? Let’s find out.
WS2814 vs TM1814 vs UCS2904 vs UCS7604, What’s the difference?
First, let’s take a quick look at the comparison chart to understand their differences and similarities.
| Item | WS2814 LED Strip | TM1814 LED Strip | UCS2904 LED Strip | UCS7604 LED Strip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Differences | ||||
| Strip Voltage | DC5V/12V/24V | DC5~32V | DC12V/DC24V | DC12V/24V |
| PIN Configuration | 12 pin | 8 pin | 8 pin | 10 pin |
| Dual-signal Wire | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Break-point Continue | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Voltage Drop | DC5V: High; DC12V: Middle; DC24V: Low | DC12V: Middle; DC24V: Low | DC12V: Middle; DC24V: Low | Low |
| Grayscale | 256 | 256 | 256 | 65536 |
| Data transfer rate | 800Kbps | 500~800Kbps | 800Kbps | 800Kbps |
| Similarities | ||||
| IC Type | WS2814 external IC | TM1814 external IC | UCS2904 external IC | UCS7604 external IC |
| Color | RGBW | RGBW | RGBW | RGBW |
| Signal Transmission Distance | 12v 5M 24v 10M |
12v 5M 24v 10M |
12v 5M 24v 10M |
12v 5M 24v 10M |
From the table above we can see that there are some differences and similarities between WS2814 vs TM1814 vs UCS2904 vs UCS7604 addressable LED light strips. Next, we will delve into the specific details and characteristics of each LED Strip.
Deep Dive into WS2814 vs TM1814 vs UCS2904 vs UCS7604 LED Strips
After comparing WS2814 vs TM1814 vs UCS2904 vs UCS7604 digital LED strips, we now dive into the specifics of each kind of LED strip.
WS2814 LED Pixel Light
What is WS2814 LED Strip
WS2814 pixel protocol is designed by China World Semi. The WS2814 RGBW LED strip is an improvement on the WS2813 model. It retains dual-signal functionality but introduces a new design using external ICs to ensure stable performance.
Features of WS2814 LED Strip
The WS2814 LED strip operates on DC5V/DC12V/24V and can be made in three low voltage versions, suitable for small and large installations. The WS2814 RGBW LED strips have two data wires, one is used for normal data transmission and the other is for backup. The backup data wire gives the break continue (breakpoint resume) function to WS2814 LED strip.
TM1814 LED Pixel Light
What is TM1814 LED Strip
TM1814 pixel protocol was designed by Titan Micro Electronics in China. TM1814 LED strips are available in DC12V and DC24V. It is an improved design of its previous version, TM1804, offering RGBW capability as well as a faster PWM. The control circuit comes in a SOP8 package, allowing for more flexibility with LED choice.
Features of TM1814 LED Strip
The TM1814 features a high refresh rate, which allows for smoother and more consistent color transitions. It does not have the function of Break-point Continue.
UCS2904 LED Pixel Light
What is UCS2904 LED Strip
UCS2904 pixel protocol was designed by Lianxinke in China. UCS2904 LED strips are only available in DC12V and DC24V versions. It is a 4-channel LED display driver / controller with a built-in MCU digital interface, data latches and LED high voltage driving functions. UCS2904 offers all the same features as its RGB version, UCS2903, but is dedicated to RGBW. The control circuit comes in a SOP8 package, allowing for more flexibility with LED choice.
Features of UCS2904 LED Strip
RGB + White ( any other single color) can be independently controlled to allows us to create bolder and more vibrant colors than with RGB alone.It is the same as TM1814, without the Break-point Continue function.
UCS7604 LED Pixel Light
What is UCS7604 LED Strip
UCS7604 pixel protocol was designed by Lianxinke in China. UCS7604 LED strip is only available in DC24V version. Its RGBW channel output adopts 65535 level gray scale output, with independent current adjustment function of each channel, high precision constant currentdesign, 16K port refresh frequency, so that the picture effect more restore the realcolor, rich and gorgeous. Excellent product performance, stable and reliable.
Features of UCS7604 LED Strip
It features a 16K port refresh frequency for smoother, more consistent color transitions. Clients who have high requirements for color can choose this LED Strip. It is the same as WS2814, with the Break-point Continue function.
Choosing Between WS2814 vs TM1814 vs UCS2904 vs UCS7604
When choosing between WS2814 vs TM1814 vs UCS2904 vs UCS7604 LED strips, it’s essential to consider their specific features and your project requirements. When choosing among these four options, consider the following factors:
- Strip Voltage: If among these four RGBW LED Strips, you only need the DC24v version, then you can only choose the UCS7604 LED Strip. The other three models are available in DC12v and DC24v versions. However, WS2814 and TM1814 can also be made into DC5v LED Strip.
- Break-point Continue function: WS2814 LED Strip and UCS7604 LED Strip have breakpoint continue function. TM1814 LED Strip and UCS2904 LED Strip have no breakpoint continue function. If you prefer breakpoint continue function, consider using WS2814 and UCS7604.
- Grayscale: UCS7604 RGBW channel output adopts 65535 level gray scale output. This means that we can set 65536 brightness levels, ranging from black to white. WS2814, TM1814 and UCS2904 only have 256 level gray scale output.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific project requirements, such as Voltage, Break-point Continue function, and Grayscale. Review the specifications and features of each LED strip type, and select the one that best aligns with your needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, through WS2814 vs TM1814 vs UCS2904 vs UCS7604, we know that the WS2814 vs TM1814 vs UCS2904 vs UCS7604 LED strips each offer unique features, making them suitable for different applications. While they share some similarities, their differences in voltage requirements, fuction and structure make them better suited to different needs. When you really understand the nuances between them, you can choose the LED Strip that suits you.
FAQs
1. Are WS2814, TM1814, UCS2904 and UCS7604 compatible with Arduino?
Yes, all four WS2814, TM1814, UCS2904 and UCS7604 LED strips are compatible with Arduino.
2. Can WS2814, TM1814, UCS2904 and UCS7604 be cut to custom lengths?
Yes, WS2814, TM1814, UCS2904 and UCS7604 LED strips can be cut to custom lengths. They all have cuttable sections, usually marked along the strip, allowing you to adjust the length to your specific requirements.
3. UCS7604 RGBW LED Strip does not have the Break-point Continue function?
This statement is wrong, UCS7604 RGBW LED Strip has a breakpoint continue function. TM1814 LED Strip and UCS2904 LED Strip have no breakpoint continue function.
4. Is the WS2814 a 12 pin configuration?
Yes. Please take a look at the picture below.
