SPI VCC / DIN / GND

Most common, cheapest, widest controller support.​ Uses strict timing to differentiate 0/1 signals; signal amplifiers/repeaters are required for long-distance runs.

1. Built-in IC (Driver integrated inside the LED chip, mostly 1 LED = 1 pixel)

• WS2812 / WS2812B / WS2812C: 5V, RGB, the most popular choice for DIY projects.

• SK6812: 5V/12V/24V, RGB or RGBW (with dedicated white channel), better white color rendering.

• SK6812 RGBW: Adds a white channel, better for wall washing and indoor ambiance lighting.

• CS8812 / CS8812B: 12V/24V built-in IC, WS2812-compatible solution.

2. External IC (Independent chip on PCB, commonly 1 IC controls 3 / 6 LEDs)

• WS2811: 5V/12V/24V, 1 IC controls 3 LEDs, extremely common in 12V commercial/engineering LED strips.

• UCS1903 / UCS1903B: 5V/12V/24V, RGB, stable signal, widely used in outdoor signage and dot light sources.

• UCS2903 / UCS2904: RGBW / CCT, 4-channel.

• SM16703 / SM16704: Domestic Chinese engineering-grade ICs, WS2811-compatible protocol.

• TM1803 / TM1809 / TM1812: TM series single-wire ICs; TM1812 commonly used for 12V/24V RGB/CCT.

• TM1814: 12V/24V, RGBW external IC, commonly used in architectural lighting.

• WS2814 / WS2814A: 12V/24V, RGBW external IC.