I disagree with the characterization that LED strips using quality diodes and properly powered and positioned have intensity or penetration “limitations”. The core technology in COBs and SMD strips is exactly the same. The only significant difference is that with COBs all the diodes are grouped together in a highly compact area, creating a single point of emission for the light, and a single point of emission of waste heat. SMD strips spread out the light, and the waste heat, over several centimeters. That allows them to be placed closer to the canopy without sacrificing consistency of illumination (creation of hotspots and dark spots) or creating issues with burning and light bleaching.
With those advantages put to use, watt for watt, Samsung SMD strips will out-penetrate the best COBs every time.
-b420