Difference between Pixie & 3W Neopixel?

[guitarist]

I bought some Pixies some time ago for a project I was working on, and recently was looking some more up, and came across these 3W (& 4W w/ White) NeoPixels. The price difference between them is significant, so what is different about them?

https://www.adafruit.com/product/2741 - Pixie
https://www.adafruit.com/product/4544 - 3W NeoPixel

[adafruit_support_bill]

The Pixie uses standard asynchronous serial communication vs the proprietary protocol WS2812 protocol of the Neopixels. It also has built-in self-protection against overheating (Continuous 3W output generates a LOT of heat!). It will shut down the LED if it detects an over-temperature condition - or if it detects a loss of communication.

[guitarist]

Ok, so a protocol difference, and some safety features? For my project, it makes sense to skip over that in favor of cheaper price. Thanks!