The WS2811/WS2812 depends on sending data matching a very tight timing. The WS2801 uses a separate clock line, which can be seen as an advantage, whereas the WS2811/WS2812 does not. Where the WS2801 strips needed 4 wires, the WS2811/WS2812 strips only needs 3 wires.

Note how the layout of the “silver” tracks are almost identical in both images, yet the black (IC) block and the tiny wires are different (right). On the left a 5050 RGB LED, on the right a WS2812 which combines a 5050 RGB LED with a WS2811 controller. In the illustration below you’ll see the difference: The 5050 LED is a very common 3 LED (Red, Green, Blue) package, in one 5mm x 5mm case.Ī WS2812 is the same package but with an additional WS2811 LED driver IC on board. The WS2812 however is a WS2811 placed inside a 5050 LED package. The WS2801 used to be quite popular but the WS2812/WS2811 appears to be taking over the reigns. Positioned close together, so you as a viewer will see the mixed color result.

These IC’s can control up to 3 LEDs, typically Red, Green and Blue. The WS2801 and WS2811 are LED driver IC’s ( Integrated Circuits). The model numbers WS2801, WS2811 and WS2812 actually refer to different “things”. Most projects and descriptions out there discus these sometimes mixed, and for one who dives into LED strips for the first time, these models numbers might be confusing.

Difference between WS2801, WS2811 and WS2812īefore we start, we should probably identify the differences between the WS2801, WS2811 and WS2812 based strips (also called “strands”).

How to wire adafruit trinket 5v guide