These APA102C (DotStar) RGB LEDs feature an integrated driver chip inside each 5050 SMD package, giving you individually addressable 24-bit colour control (8 bits each for red, green, and blue). The same smart LED used in DotStar LED strips, now available as individual components for custom designs.

DotStars use generic 2-wire SPI, allowing much faster data rates than the NeoPixel 800KHz protocol with no specific timing requirements. Their 20KHz PWM refresh rate eliminates the visible flicker you get with NeoPixels at low brightness levels, making them excellent for Persistence-of-Vision (POV) displays and smooth colour blending.

Key Features

• Integrated APA102C Driver – Each LED has a built-in controller chip for individual addressability
• 24-Bit Colour – Full RGB control with 8 bits per channel
• 2-Wire SPI Interface – Faster data transfer than NeoPixels, no strict timing needed
• 20KHz PWM – Flicker-free dimming, ideal for POV and low-brightness applications
• Chainable – Each LED acts as a shift register; chain as many as you need
• 5050 SMD Package – Compact 5 × 5mm footprint, easy to solder

Ideal For

• Custom addressable RGB LED arrangements
• Persistence-of-Vision (POV) displays
• Upgrading from NeoPixels to higher-performance addressable LEDs
• Projects requiring smooth, flicker-free colour transitions

Package Contents

• 10× APA102C 5050 RGB LEDs

Resources

• DotStar LED Guide