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Project Kits Best LED Project
Gikfun LED Chaser Soldering Kit (81 LEDs) Review
Reviewed by Kerem Başbuğ · Last updated June 19, 2026 · How we rank
8.3 / 10 · our score
An LED chaser board with 81 LEDs to solder. The sheer number of identical joints makes it superb repetition practice, and the running-light effect is a satisfying reward.
Quick Specs
- Brand
- Gikfun
- Category
- Project Kits
- Price tier
- Budget ($)
- Our score
- 8.3 / 10
- Best for
- Learners who want high-volume joint practice with a visual payoff.
Our verdict
Eighty-one LEDs is a lot of identical joints, and that is exactly the point — consistency comes from repetition. Mind the LED polarity and you will finish with a hypnotic running-light display and noticeably steadier hands.
Pros & cons
Pros
- 81 LEDs = lots of repetition practice
- Eye-catching running-light effect when done
- Reinforces consistent joint technique
- Affordable STEM project
Cons
- Repetitive build can feel long
- Polarity mistakes are easy if rushed
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Key features
- 81-LED chaser PCB
- High joint count for repetition practice
- Animated running-light output
- STEM learning project
What's in the box
- LED chaser PCB
- 81 LEDs plus supporting components
- Basic assembly instructions
- Iron, solder and power source not included
Contents come from the current Amazon listing and can change — check the listing before buying.
Getting started with the Gikfun LED Chaser Soldering Kit (81 LEDs)
Check LED polarity once and then set up a rhythm: every LED goes in the same way round, so a single system — long leg toward the marked pad, every time — prevents the one mistake this kit punishes. Solder in rows of ten and inspect each row before moving on. If the chase pattern skips a position later, the fault is almost always that one LED reversed or one dull joint in that row.
Who it's for
Learners who want high-volume joint practice with a visual payoff.
Alternatives worth considering
AKEYSRC 7-Game LED Arcade Soldering Kit
Also LED-heavy, but the finished board is a playable arcade rather than a light display.
Tingbowie DIY Soldering Practice Kit
Cheaper repetition if you only want joint practice and do not need a finished effect.
Gikfun LED Chaser Soldering Kit (81 LEDs): common questions
Is 81 LEDs too many for a beginner?
No — it is repetitive rather than difficult, and repetition is exactly what turns a shaky joint into a reliable one. Break it into sessions rather than trying to finish in one sitting.
What happens if one LED is backwards?
That position stays dark and the chase appears to skip it. Desolder the LED with wick or a pump, turn it round and reflow the joints; catching it early with row-by-row testing saves a lot of hunting.
Does it need programming?
No. The running-light pattern is built into the circuit, so it works as soon as the board is correctly assembled and powered.
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