Is this 5V COB LED strip good for under-cabinet kitchen lighting?

Yes. This 5V COB LED strip is well suited for under-cabinet kitchen lighting because the COB (chip-on-board) design and 320 LEDs per meter produce a continuous, even light bar that reduces hotspots and glare. The strip offers selectable color temperatures (warm 3000K, neutral 4000K, cool 6000K) so you can pick warmer tones for food prep or cooler tones for task lighting. It is cuttable every 25 mm and has adhesive backing for straightforward installation under cabinets. This product is useful for homeowners, renters, and DIYers who want seamless accent or task lighting without complex wiring. Note that the strip is IP21 non-waterproof and cannot be connected directly to 110/220V mains; it requires a 5V DC USB power source or adapter and should be kept away from direct water exposure.

Will this USB 5V LED strip work with a power bank, USB wall adapter, or a computer USB port?

Yes. The strip runs on DC 5V and uses a USB-style power input, so it will power on from standard USB sources like a power bank, USB wall adapter, or a computer port. Because the strip is high-density (320 LEDs per meter) and dimmable with an on/off switch, longer lengths draw more current than short runs, so using a dedicated USB adapter or a power bank with sufficient output capacity is recommended for full-brightness operation. The strip does not include a power supply, so verify that your USB source provides stable 5V and enough current for the length you plan to run. This makes it a good option for portable setups, desks, and computer backlighting; avoid relying on low-current USB ports for long or multiple-strip installations.

How does a COB LED strip like this compare to standard SMD LED strips for linear lighting?

A COB LED strip delivers a more uniform, continuous light line compared with standard SMD strips. The COB construction places LEDs closely together (this product lists 320 LEDs per meter) and creates a seamless look with fewer visible points of light, which is ideal for cove lighting, display cases, and TV backlighting. COB strips often provide better color rendering and softer illumination; this model offers high CRI and three color-temperature options (3000K, 4000K, 6000K). However, unlike many SMD RGB or individually addressable strips, COB strips are typically single-color and not designed for pixel-level control. These characteristics benefit users seeking smooth, glare-free accent lighting rather than color effects or dynamic patterns.

How long will this LED strip last and is it safe for indoor use?

This LED strip is designed for long indoor service life when used as intended. It uses Epistar SMD2835 chips and operates at low-voltage DC 5V, which reduces electrical stress compared with higher-voltage installations; the product is CE certified and features adhesive backing for secure mounting. General LED technology of this type commonly achieves tens of thousands of hours of usable life when properly cooled and not exposed to moisture. For safety and longevity, install the strip in dry indoor locations because it is IP21 rated and non-waterproof, avoid covering it with insulating materials that trap heat, and always use a compatible 5V power source rather than connecting to mains AC. These precautions make it suitable for living rooms, cabinets, shelves, and other dry indoor spaces.

Can I cut and join this COB LED strip to fit custom lengths and still keep dimming?

Yes. This COB LED strip can be cut to size and joined while retaining dimming functionality as long as correct procedures are followed. The strip is marked as cuttable every 25 mm and is supplied in jointed sections (noting that there are visible welding points at each 50 cm joint). It includes a dimmable on/off switch and runs on 5V DC, so after cutting you must reconnect the positive and negative leads correctly and provide a suitable 5V power supply to maintain dimming. This is ideal for DIYers customizing under-cabinet runs, shelving, or accent channels. Keep in mind the strip is non-waterproof and comes without a power adapter, and poor soldering or incorrect polarity can damage sections, so use proper connectors or soldering techniques for reliable results.