LED Strip Connector

Soldering Vs. LED Strip Connector

The flexible LED strip is a convenient solution for linear lighting. This is because it is possible to cut each group (usually consisting of 3 or 6 LEDs) along the scissor marks on the pads. However, this is a different matter when it comes to the connection. What are connection options available? Soldering or LED strip connectors?

The answer seems clear, as we all agree that soldering is the most reliable way to make electrical connections. But we also know that not everyone is skilled in handling a soldering iron, and to make matters worse, the pads for led strips are tiny, especially for RGB, RGBW, and even RGBWW versions. Things get more complicated in commercial projects because more factors should be considered. They are reliability, convenience, maintainability, learning curve, and cost.

Soldering provides a more robust and permanent connection compared to LED strip connectors. However, an LED strip connector is an easier alternative and offers better adjustment flexibility while connecting strips. 

Therefore, to consider which is better, you must consider your application and installation needs. 

Soldering Is Better For:

• Permanent installations (outdoor, automotive, architectural)

• High-vibration areas (vehicles, machinery)

• Long LED runs requiring better conductivity

• Professional and clean setups

• Weatherproof and durable applications

LED Strip Connector Is Better For:

• DIY and temporary setups

• Quick, tool-free installations

• Frequent modifications or extensions

• Indoor decorative lighting

• Non-technical users where easy assembly is needed

Comparison of Key Factors

Reliability

In some critical applications, even temporary interruptions are not allowed. In these applications, soldering would be the better choice.

• In environments with significant temperature differences
  Heat differences may cause the plastic to expand and contract.
• In strongly acidic, alkaline, or oxidizing environments
  Because conductors are usually made of copper, which may rust.
• In vibrating objects
  If the strip light is intended to be fixed to a surface that vibrates a lot, consider soldering rather than connectors, as the vibration will theoretically loosen the contact and make the soldering more stable.

LED strip connectors are acceptable and perform very well despite the above three situations.

Convenience

You can’t always have a soldering iron on hand or several soldering irons working simultaneously in your team. Often we want as little equipment as possible, as long as we can get the job done in time. Compared to soldering equipment, LED strip connectors are easier to carry around and allow multiple people to connect different parts simultaneously.

Maintenance

LED strips may be defective due to poor SMD soldering, poor heat dissipation, faulty resistors, bad LED chips, etc. In this case, they should be replaced. If the connection is made via a connector, you can easily replace the defective part by simply opening the connector and inserting a new led strip. But soldering the connection requires you to send an experienced electrician there to get a soldering iron.

Learning Curve

Learning to solder is not so easy if you are not an electrician. But using the connectors is so easy that you don’t even have to learn. There is no need to worry about the wrong polarity, as you can easily disconnect and fix the problem. There is no need to worry about burns (working irons can reach temperatures of up to 300°C / 570°F) and no need to worry about the unpleasant smell from rosin.

Cost

The maximum cost of an LED strip connector on the end market is $1, and most prices are lower. But soldering costs are higher because it requires a soldering iron, a professional electrician, longer working hours, and health risks. All these issues cost money to solve.