DIP vs SMD LEDs: What’s the Difference?

LEDs are a type of light bulb that have come into popularity due to their efficiency, environmentally friendly nature, and long lifespan. When used commercially in digital signs and scoreboards, LED diodes have the ability to improve the light quality, durability, and cost of the sign.

There are two different types of LEDs that commonly make up most digital signs, DIP and SMD. Although they are slightly similar in mechanics (they’re both energy efficient light sources that are used in conjunction to make one big illumination), they are quite different in makeup, rendering them better suited for two different applications.

In this article we outline the main differences between DIP & SMD LEDs and how they are best used.

DIP (Dual Inline Package)

DIP LEDs or dual in-line packages are constructed to resemble a traditional light bulb, with a single colour per component. A red, green, and blue bulb are joined together to create an endless possibility of colours. A fourth white one can also sometimes be added for additional variety and brightness. These bulbs have a low lumen output, at about 4 per LED.

The small triad of bulbs are pieced together to create the large intended display image. As such, bulbs can be seen within the screen and have a high pixel pitch. DIPs are usually made durably, making them resistant to weather and able to withstand hard conditions. Due to the limitations of their visibility, and weather-resistant design DIP bulbs are often used on outdoor signs.

SMD (Surface Mount Diode)

SMD LEDs or surface mount diodes are lightweight LEDs built inside of an enclosed case that is commonly used in a variety of screens and devices on the market. They are small in design offering a ton of versatility in their use and screen configuration and offering a low pixel pitch. These types of LEDs are a popular choice due to their energy efficiency, long lifespan.

As an improved design from traditional LEDs, SMDs offers a high lumen output of about 50 to 100 lumens per watt. They can be extremely bright with crisp output, clear images, and true to colour nature. Not only are SMDs a cost-effective choice, they offer superior quality for close viewing, high resolutions and bright images, making them great for indoor signs and screens.

What’s the difference?

Overall, SMDs are a newer, more improved LED design that makes them capable of offering high-quality resolution and crisp, bright signs. Being a newer technology SMDs are much smaller in size than DIP’s, with a superior colour output. They are a more common choice when it comes to digital screens not only due to their capabilities but also their efficiency and lifespan.

DIPs are a reliable choice if outdoor signs are your goal, due to their weather-resistant nature. Compared to incandescent bulbs these LEDs are still energy efficient and of a preferred quality.

Regardless of which type ultimately make up your scoreboard or digital sign, LEDs are a great environmentally and cost-friendly option that your patrons will enjoy. If you are looking to refresh your existing signage, or install something brand new our experienced specialists are here to help. Please contact us today for a free quote, or to have a member of our team answer your questions.