ARGB Vs RGB Lights, Fans, Connectors: Which is Better

There are two types of RGB light: ARGB and RGB light. ARGB (Addressable RGB) is where the color is controlled by a microcontroller, while RGB light uses traditional red, green, and blue light bulbs. There are pros and cons to each type of RGB light. Addressable RGB has the advantage of being more controllable, but RGB light is cheaper and easier to install.

argb vs rgb
argb vs rgb

What is the difference between ARGB and RGB?

When it comes to RGB lighting, there are two main types: addressable and non-addressable. the non-addressable RGB lighting is what you typically find in LED strips and most LED lights. With this type of RGB lighting, each LED light has a set color that cannot be changed. Addressable RGB lighting, on the other hand, is found in more advanced LED lights and allows for each LED light to be individually controlled. This means that you can change the color of each light, creating virtually any color you can imagine. Check out GTX 1060 Laptop Vs Desktop for gaming with argb lighting.

ARGB vs RGB connectors

If you want to get the perfect ARGB illumination of the system components, you should think over the system of connections and the location of all lighting elements in advance. The number of backlit accessories is increasing year by year. The parameters and characteristics of the backlight differ. Therefore, you should first familiarize yourself with the manuals of all devices (backlight controllers, motherboard, additional tapes connected) in order to know exactly how to optimally configure the illumination.

Modern motherboards require the connection of two types of backlight: a “regular” connector (often referred to as RGB) with a diode supply voltage of 12 V and an address connector (often referred to as ARGB) with a diode supply voltage of 5 V. Depending on the model and manufacturer of the motherboard, the number and the name of the connectors may vary. MSI, for example, calls their 5V ARGB connectors JRAINBOW, while Asus often calls them ADD GEN2.

ARGB hub

Enthusiasts often want to install a lot of backlit components. Often there are more than the available connectors. Physically, you can connect, for example, two ARGB fans to one ARGB connector using an adapter cable. But it is important to consider the power output of the connector itself on the motherboard or controller. In case of overload, increased heating and/or failure of components, connecting wires, and connectors is possible. With an abundance of devices with ARGB backlighting, an ARGB hub is a good solution. Such a hub is originally included in the Triple Pack version of Light Wings fans. It is equipped with an ARGB input, six outputs for connecting ARGB components, and an additional power connector. This means that in addition to three fans, you can connect lighting elements, such as the Pure Base 500 DX and Silent Loop 2 cases.

argb and PWM hub

These connectors are easy to distinguish visually: RGB connectors have four pins, while ARGB connectors have only three. Lighting components can be connected to both types of connectors, but their capabilities differ. The 5V ARGB connector supports addressable control of individual LEDs of the connected device (the “A” in the abbreviation means “addressable”), while when connecting backlight modules to the 12V RGB connectors, all LEDs are lit in sync (that is, an RGB LED strip can be lit only one color at a time). The ARGB connector can also be used to create additional effects such as the popular rainbow effect.

ARGB vs RGB fans

RGB fans are becoming more and more popular as people are looking to light up their builds. There are two main types of RGB fans, ARGB and RGB.

argb vs rgb fans
argb vs rgb fans

RGB Fans

Like previous models, these fans have the usual connectors for controlling the blades, but the topic of backlighting and its control is much broader here.

The illumination of this type of turntable is adjustable or controllable. That is, you can change the color, and brightness and enable various modes of operation. The RGB letters in the name indicate that there are a million different shades on board, but at a time the system can only reproduce one color and only around the entire circumference. This is the most affordable and popular model in modding.

Such fans have two connectors: 4 pins for motor control and 4 pins for lighting (12V-GRB):

To do this, on modern motherboards there are special outputs with which you can directly control the diodes:

If the motherboard does not have such a function, manufacturers suggest using an external controller to control the backlight, which takes full control of the backlight. At the same time, it connects to USB and functions using proprietary software.

ARGB fans

Those same kings of illumination in a modern assembly that everyone can. These are millions of color shades and their variations at the same time, the effect of a rainbow, a propeller, and an analog clock. However, it is better to see once than to read a hundred times:

And this is only a small part of what can be done with ARGB. The video shows an example of control using a controller, but when connected directly to the motherboard, the creative possibilities expand. The fan can show all shades at once or shine alternately with each color. There is also a diode control in turn when only a few are turned on and part of the blades is illuminated. A variety of such effects are achieved using addressable diode technology, and the possibilities are limited only by the scope of the software and the imagination of the user. However, due to the ARGB diodes, the connection method has also changed.

This now uses a three-pin 5V-DG or VDG connector for some motherboards. Almost always, such fans have a 6-pin connector, which immediately includes both motor control and backlight control. On the motherboard, the connectors are separated, so manufacturers complete the fans with special adapters for connection. To do this, the 6 fan pins are split into PWM for the fan and a 5V-DG connector for the backlight. And if the motherboard does not have such a backlight output, you can use a remote controller, but not RGB, like last time, but ARGB. It also connects to USB and fully controls the six-pin fans.

how to control RGB lights in pc?

RGB lighting can be a great way to personalize your PC, but it can also be a bit of a pain to control.

There are a few different ways to control the RGB lighting on your PC, but the most common is probably software.

  • Some motherboards come with their own software for controlling RGB lighting, but you can also use third-party software like Asus Aura or Gigabyte Fusion.
  • If you don’t have any software that supports RGB lighting, there are also hardware solutions like LED strips and controllers.
  • LED strips are usually the easiest way to add RGB lighting to your PC, and they come in a variety of colors and sizes.
  • Controllers allow you to individually control each LED on an LED strip, which can be useful if you want to create specific effects.

Pros and Cons of Addressable RGB vs RGB Lighting

Pros of RGB light

The RGB lighting is one of the newer technologies to hit the market and it has a ton of potential uses. Here are some of the pros of RGB lighting:

  • There are a lot of color options available with RGB lighting. This means that you can create a unique look for your project that isn’t possible with other forms of lighting.
  • The RGB lighting is very versatile. It can be used for a wide variety of applications, from home décor to commercial projects.
  • The RGB lighting is energy efficient. It doesn’t require as much power as traditional light bulbs, so it can save you money in the long run.

Cons of RGB light

There are several Cons to using RGB light.

First, RGB light can be harsh on the eyes and can cause eyestrain. Second, RGB light can be disruptive to sleep patterns and can interfere with the body’s natural clock. Third, RGB light can cause headaches and migraines in some people. Finally, RGB light can be damaging to the eyes over time.

Pros of ARGB light

RGB LED technology has many advantages over traditional light sources. Addressable RGB LED strips to allow for precise control of color and brightness, creating a more immersive experience. With an addressable strip, every LED can be controlled individually, allowing for nearly limitless possibilities in terms of color and animation. Addressable RGB LEDs are also more energy-efficient than traditional light sources, making them a more environmentally friendly option.

Cons of ARGB light

One big disadvantage is that they are not as bright as traditional light bulbs. This can be a problem for applications where a lot of light is needed, such as in a workshop or garage.

Another disadvantage of RGB LED lights is that they can be expensive. This is especially true for addressable RGB LED lights, which can cost several times more than traditional LED lights. This can be a problem for people who want to use RGB LED lights but don’t have a lot of money to spend on them.

Applications of ARGB Vs RGB

Applications of ARGB light

RGB lighting has a variety of applications in both residential and commercial settings. Some common applications include:

  • Mood lighting: RGB LEDs can be used to create soft, soothing light that can be changed to match the mood or occasion. This is a great option for bedrooms, living rooms, and other spaces where you want to be able to relax or entertain guests.
  • Accent lighting: RGB LEDs can also be used as accent lights to highlight specific features in a room or outdoor space. For example, you could use them to highlight a beautiful painting or sculpture or to create a dramatic effect on a wall or landscape.
  • Signage: RGB lighting can be used to create signage that is visible from a distance.
  • Safety and security: RGB lighting can be used for safety and security purposes by illuminating walkways, entrances, and exits.
  • Decoration: RGB LEDs can be used to add color and excitement to parties, special occasions, and other celebrations. They can also be used as Christmas lights or other holiday decorations.

Applications of RGB light

RGB light is found in many common applications today. Some of these applications include televisions, computer monitors, CPUs, projectors, and mobile devices. In televisions and computer monitors, RGB light is used to create the images that are displayed. In projectors, RGB light is used to create the image that is projected onto a screen. And in mobile devices, RGB light is used to create the image that is displayed on the screen.

Is RGB and ARGB compatible?

yes, they are compatible. Addressable RGB allows for more precise control of each individual pixel, while RGB is a less specific but still widely used color space. Many devices can use both types of signals, so it’s generally not an issue. However, there are a few situations where addressability might be necessary. If you’re working with displays that have very high resolutions or fine details, addressable RGB might give you a little bit better results.

Can 4-pin RGB be addressable?

RGB LED controllers come in all shapes and sizes. Many RGB LED controllers have 4 pins. But can these 4 pin RGB controllers be addressable? The answer is yes!

Some 4 pin RGB controllers use a common anode, while others use a common cathode. If you have a common anode controller, simply connect the +12V, GND, and R1 pins to the same pins on the LED strip. If you have a common cathode controller, connect the +12V, GND, and R1 pins to the opposite pins on the LED strip.

How do I know if an RGB is addressable?

An RGB LED is addressable if you can control the red, green, and blue independently. To determine if an RGB LED is addressable, you need to check the datasheet. The datasheet will list the pinouts for each color channel. If you can control the brightness of each color channel separately, then the RGB LED is addressable.

4 pin rgb to 3 pin argb

RGB, or red, green, and blue, is a color model used in video and digital imaging. RGB signals are typically sent over three wires, one for each color. However, some devices only have three pins and can’t accept an RGB signal. In these cases, you can use an adapter to convert the signal to an ARGB format. This adapter has four pins: one for each color and ground. The adapter takes the three RGB signals and combines them into a single ARGB signal that the device can understand.

ARGB Vs RGB Which is better

There are a few things to consider when deciding which type of RGB lighting is right for you. Addressable RGB lighting can be controlled individually, while RGB lighting can only be controlled as a whole. This means that with addressable RGB lighting, you can create unique effects that wouldn’t be possible with RGB lighting. Addressable RGB lighting is also more expensive than RGB lighting. However, if the price isn’t a concern and you want the most flexibility in your lighting, addressable RGB is the way to go.