WS2811 or WS2812B? Pixel types compared

WS2811 or WS2812B: which pixel type fits?

For objects, trees and façades with space between the points of light, choose WS2811 pixel strings: 12 mm pixels every 10 cm, IP68, at 5 or 12 V. For fine lines and outlines, choose WS2812B pixel strips: every LED is its own pixel, at 5 V. WS2811 strips are also available at 12 V.

Our pixels compared

Form Chip Voltage Pixel pitch Protection Power per pixel
Pixel string 12 mm WS2811 5 V or 12 V 10 cm IP68 5 V approx. 0.3 W · 12 V approx. 0.72 W
Pixel strip 60 LEDs/m WS2812B 5 V 16.7 mm IP30, IP65, IP67 approx. 0.3 W
Pixel strip 30 LEDs/m WS2812B 5 V 33.3 mm IP30, IP65, IP67 approx. 0.3 W
Pixel strip 12 V WS2811 12 V 50 mm or 100 mm IP65, IP67 approx. 0.72 W

Values from the item details at full white. The value stated in the respective item always applies.

Pixel pitch over 20 cm Over 20 cm: a pixel string has one 12 mm pixel every 10 cm. A WS2812B strip with 60 LEDs per metre has 12 LEDs, each its own pixel. A 12 V WS2811 strip also has 12 LEDs, three of which form one pixel, so one pixel every 50 mm.Pixel string WS2811, 12 mm1 pixel every 10 cmStrip WS2812B, 60 LEDs/mevery LED a pixel (16.7 mm)Strip WS2811 12 V, 60 LEDs/m3 LEDs = 1 pixel (50 mm)20 cm

Strings: WS2811 with 12 mm pixels

The pixel strings carry individual 12 mm pixels spaced 10 cm apart, potted to IP68 and cuttable after every pixel. They come at 5 V and at 12 V. At 12 V you choose between standard (resistor) and regulated; the difference is explained in the guide Resistor or regulated?.

Strips: WS2812B or WS2811

On the WS2812B pixel strips, every LED is its own pixel: 60 LEDs/m give a 16.7 mm pixel pitch, 30 LEDs/m give 33.3 mm. They run at 5 V. The 12 V strips have WS2811 chips, where one chip drives several LEDs together, for example 60 LEDs/m but one pixel every 50 mm.

Protection rating by location: IP30 for dry indoor rooms, IP65 against dust and water jets, IP67 for outdoor use.

What both have in common

Frequently asked questions

Which pixels does the PixLite Mk3 drive?

You will find an overview under Compatible pixels for PixLite Mk3.

Do 12 V pixels need less current?

Not with our strings: a 50-pixel string draws approx. 3 A at 5 V as well as at 12 V. The 12 V pixels need more power, approx. 0.72 W instead of 0.3 W per pixel.

Which type for outdoors?

The pixel strings are potted to IP68. For strips outdoors, choose IP67.

Can I shorten the strings?

Yes, the pixel strings can be cut after every pixel.

Not sure which pixel type suits your project? Tell us about it and we will advise you.

Discuss your project
2 Items
In stock
WS2811 pixel string with round 12 mm pixels on black cable
WS2811 RGB Pixel String (12V) – 12 mm
SKU:
10237
Variations in:
  • Pixel Count
  • Connection type
  • Cable color
WS2811 RGB Pixel String (12V) – 12 mm
from
11,99 € *
Go to item
  • Available immediately
In stock
WS2811 pixel string with square 12 mm pixels and mounting...
WS2811 RGB LED 12 mm Square Pixel String (12V)
SKU:
10239
Variations in:
  • Pixel Count
  • Connection type
  • Cable color
Shipping weight:
0,01 kg
Item weight:
0,01 kg
WS2811 RGB LED 12 mm Square Pixel String (12V)
11,99 € *
Go to item
  • Available immediately