COB vs Pannel LEDUpdated an hour ago
How do I choose between a COB LED and an LED panel/array?
- A COB LED (chip-on-board) is a single, powerful “point source” light (more like a flash head).
- An LED panel/array spreads many LEDs across a larger surface (more like a glowing window). The best choice comes down to the quality of shadows you want, how you plan to shape the light, and how portable your setup needs to be.
Choose a COB LED if you want:
- More punch and reach (better at pushing light through softboxes, grids, and diffusion)
- More control over spill (easy to make directional with reflectors, barn doors, fresnels, snoots, and grids)
- A look that can mimic sunlight/window light more naturally (crisper, more defined shadows when undiffused)
- Better performance when bouncing light off walls/ceilings or using larger modifiers
Choose an LED panel/array if you want:
- Softer light quickly, with minimal setup (great for interviews, headshots, and product close-ups)
- Even coverage across the subject (flatter, gentler shadows—especially at close distance)
- A simple solution for tight spaces (mounting on-camera, on small stands, or against a wall)
- Often built-in diffusion and sometimes built-in color features (bi-color/RGB depending on model)
If you’re fighting bright ambient light or need the most flexibility long-term, COB systems typically scale up better (more modifier options, more output). Panels excel when speed and simplicity matter most.