Chasing LED Strip vs RGB LED Strip: Key Differences & How to Choose

When people shop for color-changing LED strips, two terms often appear: chasing LED strip and RGB LED strip. They look similar at first glance, but the lighting effects, structure, and applications are completely different. Here’s a simple, practical guide to help you understand which one you actually need.

1. What Is an RGB LED Strip?

An RGB LED strip uses red, green, and blue LEDs to create multiple static or dynamic colors. However, all LEDs on the strip change colors at the same time, because the strip works as a single group.

How RGB Strips Work

• One controller controls the entire strip.

• Color changes are uniform across the whole length.

• Effects include fade, flash, jump, and simple color transitions.

Best for

• Under-cabinet lighting

• Bedrooms and gaming rooms

• Backlighting (TVs, monitors, shelves)

• Ambient mood lighting

RGB strips are simple, affordable, and easy to install.

2. What Is a Chasing LED Strip?

A chasing LED strip (also called running LED strip, addressable LED strip, or pixel LED strip) allows each LED to be individually controlled. This creates flowing, movement-based lighting effects that a standard RGB strip cannot achieve.

How Chasing Strips Work

• Every LED or pixel has its own IC chip.

• The controller can program effects like running, scanning, fireworks, rainbow, wave, and animations.

• Colors and brightness can change independently at each LED point.

Typical Chip Types

• WS2812B / SK6812 (built-in IC addressable RGB)

• WS2811 (external IC)

• DMX versions for professional stage and architecture lighting

Best for

• Bar and restaurant decoration

• Storefront or signage lighting

• Architectural outlines

• Christmas displays and events

• DIY lighting animation projects

• High-end ambient lighting that needs movement

If you need effects that “move,” chasing LED strips are the correct choice.

3. The Key Differences (Simple Comparison)

4. Which One Should You Choose?

Choose RGB LED Strip if you want:

• A simple color-changing effect

• Budget-friendly lighting

• Basic decoration for home or cabinet lighting

• Plug-and-play installation

Choose Chasing LED Strip if you want:

• Moving, animated lighting

• Professional-looking effects

• Lighting for bars, clubs, signage, or events

• More customization and pixel control

5. Cost and Power Differences

• Chasing LED strips cost more because of the built-in IC chips.

• They also require stronger controllers and sometimes power injection for longer runs.

• RGB strips are simpler—perfect for everyday use.

Conclusion

The main difference is simple: RGB LED strips change as one unit, while chasing LED strips can animate each LED individually.

If you want clean ambient lighting, go for RGB. If you want dynamic effects that move, glow, run, or animate, choose chasing/pixel LED strips.