Final Thoughts
It was only a matter of time before we saw external RGB strips from Corsair that were made to work with their iCUE software. Instead of re-purposing their current RGB LED strips they went ahead and designed something new, which is definitely a different take on a normal RGB strip. The big thing that Corsair did was add a diffuser on top of the RGB LEDs, which makes it so you can’t see the individual LEDs and makes for a more even distribution of light. This works out really well and the lighting that the strips put off is quite amazing.
The one thing that I really love about these kits is that they are controlled by Corsair’s iCUE software. You can easily organize how you have the strips setup, what effects the strips are running, and you can actually select each individual LED on each strip and set it to a different effect if you want. The iCUE software makes it very easy for you to really create an amazing light show.
Corsair also is using a different mounting method that what we’ve seen on other RGB strips. Typically we just see a sort of 3M backing, which works for a while, but eventually the RGB strips fall down. Corsair’s approach is mounting magnetic squares to where where you’ll be installing the strips and simply placing the strips lining up the magnetic holders on the strips with the magnetic squares. This method is quite easy.
The only real problems I could see with these strips is that one they are quite thick so you really won’t be able to install them on the edge of a desk like you would with normal RGB strips. Also the diffuser is a real dust magnet.
Corsair is selling the LS100 Starter Kit for $119.99, which includes 2 long strips, 2 short strips, and the controller. This should give you more than enough coverage for a single monitor (even an ultra-wide) or a pretty long desk. Overall ThinkComputers gives the Corsair LS100 Smart Lighting Kit a 9 out of 10 score.
Pros:
– Diffuser makes for a better light show
– Control with Corsair’s iCUE software
– Can control each individual RGB LED
– Pretty easy installation
Cons:
– Quite thick compared to other RGB strips
– The diffuser is a dust magnet
