Nodes are nodes, regardless of the chip being used. Each node is a separate item and are controlled individually. The only issue with the different chips is compatibility with the controller being used. With strips, it's a very different issue. Not only do you still have the compatibility issue, now you have layout issues as well. The standard layout in a strip is one chip per 3 LED's. The TM1809 has 9 outputs so it can seperately control each of the 3 RGB LEDs between it and the next TM1809. Since the W2811 only has 3 outputs, all three LED's are connected in parallel and must do the same thing. The primary advantage to nodes over strips os their flexability. You can control the spacing and they can be postioned any way you desire. Flex strips can only flex in one direction which while a positive in some ways, is a limit in others and depending on what you want to do ........