WS2812 vs WS2813: What are Differences and How to Choose

In the realm of modern lighting and display technology, the WS2812 and WS2813 are popular intelligent RGB LED solutions, each offering distinct features and benefits. The WS2812 is known for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness, utilizing a single-wire data transmission method that is ideal for general LED projects.

On the other hand, the WS2813 provides enhanced reliability and flexibility, featuring a redundant data line and a broader voltage range, making it suitable for more demanding applications. Understanding the differences between these LEDs WS2812 vs WS2813 can help users make informed decisions to achieve the best lighting effects and performance for their specific needs.

What is WS2812

The WS2812 is an intelligent control LED light source that integrates a control circuit and RGB chip into a single 5050 package. It features an intelligent digital port data latch, a signal reshaping amplification drive circuit, a precision internal oscillator, and a programmable constant current control, ensuring high consistency in light color and brightness across all pixels. The LED operates with low driving voltage, is energy-efficient, and has a long lifespan, making it an environmentally friendly lighting solution.

Using a single-wire NZR communication protocol, the WS2812 allows for easy data transmission and cascading of multiple LEDs. The built-in signal reshaping circuit ensures signal integrity over long distances, and the compact design simplifies installation. This makes the WS2812 ideal for a wide range of applications, including architectural lighting, stage design, decorative lighting, video displays, and custom projects, providing vibrant and dynamic lighting effects.

Internal structure

1. WS2812 Pinout

The WS2812 has six pins: DOUT, DIN, VCC, NC, VDD, and VSS, which manage control signals, power supply, and ground for LED operation.

Pin configuration

2. WS2812 Circuit

The WS2812 circuit requires a 5V power supply and logic, ensuring that each pixel receives sufficient current, particularly when displaying white at full brightness. Logic level shifting to 5V is necessary for proper operation, typically achieved using a bi-directional logic level converter.

WS2812 Circuit Steps

• 1. Power Supply: Provide a 5V power supply capable of delivering up to 60mA per pixel.
• 2. Logic Level Shifting: Use a 4-channel bi-directional logic level converter to shift logic levels to 5V.
• 3. SPI Configuration: Select and configure the appropriate SPI bus for communication.
• 4. Pixel Connection: Daisy-chain the WS2812 LEDs, ensuring correct data signal routing.
• 5. Initialization: Instantiate the WS2812 class with the selected SPI bus and the number of connected pixels.

// Example instantiation for an RGB LED array with 5 pixels

spi <- hardware.spi257;

pixels <- WS2812(spi, 5);

• 6. Drawing Frames: Use methods like set(), fill(), and draw() to control and display the LED colors.

// Set and draw an RGB pixel

pixels.set(0, [127,0,0]).draw();

3. WS2812 Features

• Integrated Control and RGB Chip: The WS2812 integrates the control circuit and RGB chip within a 5050 package, forming a complete pixel control point.
• Signal Reshaping Circuit: Built-in signal reshaping ensures that wave-form distortion does not accumulate as signals pass to the next driver.
• Electric and Power Reset Circuits: Features built-in electric reset and power-loss reset circuits for reliable operation.
• High-Resolution Color Display: Each pixel supports 256 brightness levels per primary color, achieving a 16,777,216 color full display with a scan frequency of at least 400Hz/s.
• Single-Line Transmission: Utilizes a single line for cascading port transmission.
• Long-Distance Signal Transmission: Capable of transmitting signals over distances greater than 5 meters without additional circuitry.
• High Cascade Capacity: Supports cascading of up to 512 points in low-speed mode and up to 1024 points in high-speed mode at a refresh rate of 30fps.
• Fast Data Transfer: Sends data at speeds of up to 800Kbps.
• Consistency and Cost-Effectiveness: Delivers highly consistent light colors with a cost-effective design.

4. WS2812 Application

Full-Color Modules: The WS2812 is widely used in full-color LED modules, providing vibrant and precise color control for a variety of lighting projects. These modules can be employed in architectural lighting, stage design, and commercial displays where dynamic color effects are required.

Soft Light Strips: Ideal for use in flexible LED light strips, the WS2812 allows for the creation of smooth and continuous lighting effects. These strips can be used for accent lighting, cove lighting, and under-cabinet lighting, offering versatility in both residential and commercial applications.

LED Decorative Lighting: The WS2812 is perfect for decorative lighting installations, both indoors and outdoors. It is commonly used in holiday lights, festival decorations, and themed lighting displays, providing a wide range of color options and programmable effects to enhance aesthetic appeal.

Indoor/Outdoor LED Video Screens: The WS2812 can be used to create irregularly shaped LED video screens, suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications. These screens can display video content, animations, and graphics, making them ideal for advertising, public information displays, and entertainment venues.

Signage and Displays: WS2812 LEDs are used in digital signage and display boards, allowing for eye-catching, dynamic content presentation. They are suitable for use in retail environments, airports, train stations, and other public spaces where high-visibility displays are needed.

Custom Lighting Projects: Due to their flexibility and programmability, WS2812 LEDs are often used in custom lighting projects, including art installations, interactive displays, and DIY projects. The ability to address each LED individually allows for intricate designs and personalized lighting solutions.

Wearable Technology: WS2812 LEDs are used in wearable technology, such as light-up clothing, accessories, and costumes. They provide a lightweight and flexible lighting solution that can be easily integrated into fabric and other materials.

Automotive Lighting: The WS2812 can be used in automotive applications for interior and exterior lighting, including ambient lighting, underbody lights, and custom headlight designs. The RGB capabilities allow for unique color effects and personalization.

Home Automation: Integrated into smart home systems, WS2812 LEDs can be used for ambient lighting, mood lighting, and automated lighting scenes. They can be controlled via home automation hubs, providing convenience and enhancing the living environment.

5. WS2812 Alternative

There are several alternatives to the WS2812 LED that offer various features such as higher refresh rates, improved color options, and different control interfaces. These alternatives include the APA102, SK6812, WS2801, LPD8806, and various NeoPixel models, each suited for different applications based on their specific capabilities.

WS2812 Alternatives Table

6. WS2812 Datasheet PDF

Download WS2812 datasheet pdf>>

What is WS2813

The WS2813 is an advanced intelligent RGB LED that integrates both the control circuitry and RGB chips within a single SMD5050 package. It supports a voltage range from 5V to 12V and features a high PWM rate of 2000Hz, allowing for smooth color transitions and reduced flicker during high-speed filming. Each LED pixel operates with 8-bit color resolution per channel, providing a vibrant color display with a total of 16,777,216 possible colors.

Distinctively, the WS2813 includes a redundant data line, ensuring continuous operation even if the primary data line fails. This makes it highly reliable for complex lighting setups, extended cable runs, and demanding applications. Its built-in signal reshaping circuit maintains signal integrity, while the flexibility in voltage and high refresh rates make it suitable for a wide range of uses, including architectural lighting, stage effects, and custom projects.

1. WS2813 Specifications and Features

Specifications

· Clock Type: Data-Only

· Color Resolution: 8 bits per channel

· Physical Package: SMD5050 with integrated LEDs

· RGB: Yes

· RGBW: Refer to WS2814

· Output Pixel Voltage: 5 – 12V

· PWM Rate: 2000Hz

· Suitable Camera: Up to 67fps, depending on refresh rate and PWM rate

· Data Transfer Rate: 800kbps

· Redundant Data Line: Yes

Color Specifications:

Features

• Voltage Flexibility: Operates with voltages up to 12V, allowing for longer cable runs without signal degradation.
• High PWM Rate: 2000Hz PWM rate supports filming with cameras at up to 67fps, reducing visible flicker.
• Redundant Data Line: Includes a backup data line that mitigates the risk of complete failure if the primary data line is compromised.
• Limited Refresh Rates: The data-only protocol may restrict refresh rates compared to other LED technologies.
• Color Resolution: The 8-bit color depth per channel can result in less smooth dimming and color transitions.

2. WS2813 Pinout

The WS2813 LED has a specific pinout configuration designed for efficient data and power management. It includes pins for power input, data signal output and input, and backup data input, ensuring reliable operation and ease of integration into various circuits.

Pinout Table

3. WS2813 Wiring Diagram

The WS2813 LED features a wiring setup where both the control circuit and RGB chip are integrated within a single 5050 package, requiring only one power source. The design includes a built-in signal reshaping circuit to maintain signal integrity and prevent waveform distortion. It also has power-on and brown-out reset circuits for reliable operation. Each pixel offers 256 gray levels, allowing for a full-color display of 16,777,216 colors and a refresh rate of 2 kHz. The LED supports serial cascading with a single signal line or, in the dual-signal wire version, allows continuous signal transmission even if a break occurs.

4. WS2813 Application

Architectural Lighting:

WS2813 LEDs are ideal for enhancing building facades and architectural elements with vibrant, customizable illumination. By using WS2813, designers can create dynamic and visually appealing lighting displays that highlight architectural features such as columns, arches, and pathways, transforming them into striking visual elements during nighttime or special events.

Stage and Event Lighting:

In stage and event settings, WS2813 LEDs offer the flexibility to produce colorful, dynamic lighting effects that synchronize with music and performances. Their ability to deliver high-quality, programmable light displays makes them perfect for concerts, theatrical productions, and various events, where they contribute to a captivating and immersive experience.

Decorative Lighting:

WS2813 LEDs are well-suited for both indoor and outdoor decorative applications, such as holiday lighting and themed installations. Whether used in Christmas lights or festive displays, WS2813 provides the versatility to create elaborate, colorful, and animated lighting effects that enhance the visual impact of decorations.

Video Displays:

For LED screens and interactive video walls, WS2813 LEDs deliver high-resolution, full-color displays that are perfect for advertisements, information boards, and entertainment. Their capability to handle dynamic content and maintain consistent color and brightness makes them ideal for creating engaging and effective visual communication.

Custom Lighting Projects:

DIY enthusiasts and hobbyists can leverage WS2813 LEDs to build custom lighting solutions tailored to personal projects and home decor. Whether for unique gadgets or personalized light displays, WS2813 offers programmable lighting effects and vibrant colors, making it a popular choice for creative and custom lighting designs.

Automotive Lighting:

WS2813 LEDs are used in automotive applications for both interior and exterior lighting. Inside vehicles, they provide ambient lighting with customizable colors and effects that enhance the driving experience, while exterior applications like underglow and decorative strips offer stylish and functional illumination that adds a distinctive touch to vehicle design.

5. WS2813 Alternative

The WS2813 has several alternatives that offer similar or enhanced features for LED lighting applications. Each alternative provides distinct advantages, such as different communication protocols, additional color capabilities, or redundancy features. Choosing the right alternative depends on specific project requirements such as speed, color depth, and data reliability.

Comparison Table

WS2812 vs WS2813: What are Differences

The WS2812 vs WS2813 are both popular intelligent RGB LED solutions, but they differ significantly in features and functionality. The WS2813 offers enhanced reliability and flexibility with its redundant data line and wider voltage range. In contrast, the WS2812 is known for its cost-effectiveness and simplicity, utilizing a single data line for communication. While both LEDs provide vibrant color displays and are suitable for various applications, the WS2813's additional features make it more robust for complex projects where data integrity and power flexibility are critical.

How to Choose Between WS2812 vs WS2813

When deciding between the WS2812 and WS2813, consider the reliability and performance needs of your project. The WS2813 is superior in terms of reliability due to its redundant data line, which ensures continued operation even if a failure occurs. It also supports a wider voltage range and has a higher PWM frequency, making it suitable for applications requiring high-speed filming or longer cable lengths. On the other hand, the WS2812 is more cost-effective and may be adequate for general LED applications where these advanced features are not critical.

In essence, choose the WS2813 for projects that demand high reliability, flexibility in power supply, and smoother visual transitions, especially in complex or high-speed applications. Opt for the WS2812 if you need a more economical solution where the advanced features of the WS2813 are not necessary.

Conclusion

Choosing between the WS2812 vs WS2813 largely depends on the reliability and performance requirements of your project. The WS2813 stands out with its redundant data line and wider voltage range, making it ideal for applications requiring high reliability, extended cable runs, and higher refresh rates. Conversely, the WS2812 offers a more cost-effective solution with simpler functionality, making it suitable for less complex projects. Ultimately, the decision should be based on the specific demands and budget of your project to ensure optimal performance and value.

Read more:

CR2025 vs CR2016: Are They Interchangeable | Lisleapex

Pentode vs Triode: What are Differences | Lisleapex

Potentiometer vs Variable Resistor: What are Differences and How to Choose | Lisleapex

Advantages and Disadvantages of Thermistor 2024 | Lisleapex