Multi-chip LED devices are described. Embodiments of the present invention provide multi-chip LED devices with relatively high efficiency and good color rendering. The LED device includes a plurality of interconnected LED chips and an optical element such as a lens. The optical element may be molded from silicone. The LED chips may be connected in parallel. In some embodiments, the LED device includes a submount, which may be made of a ceramic material such as alumina or aluminum nitride. Wire bonds can be connected to the LED chips so that all the wire bonds tend the outside of a group of LED chips. Various sizes and types of LED chips may be used, including vertical LED chips and sideview LED chips.