Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
SparkFun’s APA-104-1010 is a 1.0 × 1.0 mm addressable RGB LED with an integrated controller and single-wire control. SparkFun called it what it believes is the world’s smallest addressable LED in its September 24, 2024 announcement; that universal size record is not independently established here.
What is SparkFun’s 1 mm addressable RGB LED?
The part is the SMD LED – Addressable RGB APA-104-1010, SparkFun SKU COM-25269, sold as a pack of 20. SparkFun reports a 1.0 × 1.0 mm package. Its product announcement describes the part as what the company believes is the world’s smallest addressable LED, rather than presenting an independently verified record. SparkFun’s September 24, 2024 announcement is the source for the product identification and specifications below.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
SparkFun Qwiic LED Stick - APA102C | $12.50 | Buy on Amazon |
What specifications does SparkFun list?
The figures below are from SparkFun’s announcement, not independent measurements.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstall| Specification | APA-104-1010 |
|---|---|
| Package size | 1.0 × 1.0 mm |
| Operating voltage | 3.3–5.5 V |
| Maximum current | 15 mA per LED |
| Color depth | 24-bit |
| Controller | Integrated IC |
| Control protocol | Single-wire |
How does it compare with other addressable LEDs?
SparkFun’s comparison table puts the 1 mm part alongside larger addressable LED packages. The dimensions and protocols below are from that table; they do not establish a broader industry ranking.
#1 Best Overall
- The SparkFun Qwiic LED Stick features ten addressable APA102 LEDs, making it easy to add full color LED control using I2C. Write to individual LEDs to display a count in binary, or write to the whole strip for cool lighting effects.
- The LED Stick has a default I2C address of 0x23 but can be changed with a simple command, allowing you to control up to 100 LEDs (10 Qwiic LED Sticks) on a single bus! The address can also be changed to 0x22 by closing the solder jumper on the back of the board
- This board is one of our many Qwiic compatible boards! Simply plug and go. No soldering, no figuring out which is SDA or SCL, and no voltage regulation or translation required!
- Warning: Using a lot of LEDs can draw a lot of current. Make sure to consider the power limits of your setup. If you expect your LED chain to draw more than 600mA of current, connect your external supply directly to VLED. Closing the jumper from VLED to VCC will add a 4.7uF decoupling capacitor.
- Features: 10x APA102C addressable LEDs driven by an ATTiny85; Default I2C Address: 0x23 (Adjustable to 0x22 via Jumper), 2x Qwiic Connectors. Note: LED strip only no cables or microcontroller included.
| LED listed by SparkFun | Package size | Control protocol |
|---|---|---|
| APA-104-1010 | 1.0 × 1.0 mm | Single-wire |
| APA102-2020 | 2.0 × 2.0 mm | SPI |
| APA102C-5050 | 5.0 × 5.0 mm | SPI |
| WS2812B 5050 | 5.0 × 5.0 mm | Single-wire |
SPI LEDs use separate clock and data lines. SparkFun’s APA102 hookup guide describes faster data and refresh rates than WS2812 LEDs, but that guidance concerns APA102 products; it is not a direct performance specification or test of the APA-104-1010.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How do you control the 1 mm LED?
SparkFun lists the APA-104-1010 as using a single-wire protocol and having an integrated IC. That means the control interface is not the clock-and-data SPI arrangement used by the APA102 variants in SparkFun’s comparison. The announcement does not provide a pinout, timing specification, wiring diagram, or software library details, so those implementation specifics should be checked against product documentation before designing a circuit.
What should you consider when assembling it?
SparkFun warns that these LEDs are sensitive to humidity and can crack during reflow. It says they ship in humidity-sealed bags, but does not state a moisture-sensitivity level, floor-life limit, bake procedure, or reflow profile. Do not infer a handling or assembly recipe from the package size alone; follow applicable manufacturer instructions for the specific part and assembly process.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Where might a 1 mm addressable RGB LED be useful?
SparkFun suggests compact PCB shapes, wearable technology, and drones as possible uses where size and weight matter. These are proposed applications, not demonstrated performance results. A 1 mm package can help fit lighting into tight layouts, but a design still needs to account for control wiring, board assembly, environmental handling, and access to the part’s electrical documentation.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
