Light bulbs are everywhere—in homes, offices, and public spaces—but not all bulbs are created equal. Understanding the different types of light bulbs helps you make better choices for energy efficiency, light quality, and fixture compatibility.
Whether you're lighting up a bedroom, kitchen, office, or bathroom, choosing the right bulb enhances comfort, saves energy, and improves your everyday experience.
Light Bulb Types Overview
Lighting has come a long way. Over the years, lighting technology has evolved significantly, and consumers today have access to a wide range of bulb types—each designed for different functions and preferences.
Incandescent Bulbs
- Color Temperature: ~2700K (warm white)
- Luminous Efficacy: 10–17 lumens/watt
- Average Lifespan: ~1,000 hours
- These traditional bulbs produce light by heating a tungsten filament and are known for their warm, cozy glow. However, they’re being phased out in many countries due to low energy efficiency.
Halogen Bulbs
- Color Temperature: 3000K–3200K
- Luminous Efficacy: 16–24 lumens/watt
- Average Lifespan: ~2,000–4,000 hours
- A more efficient version of incandescent bulbs, halogen lamps offer brighter, whiter light and are often used in task lighting or outdoor fixtures.
Compact Fluorescent Bulbs (CFLs)
- Color Temperature: 2700K–6500K
- Luminous Efficacy: 35–60 lumens/watt
- Average Lifespan: ~8,000–10,000 hours
- CFLs are more energy-efficient than incandescent bulbs and available in multiple color temperatures. Keep in mind: they contain small amounts of mercury.
LED Bulbs (Light Emitting Diodes)
- Color Temperature: 2200K–6500K
- Luminous Efficacy: 80–100+ lumens/watt
- Average Lifespan: ~15,000–50,000 hours
- LEDs are the gold standard for modern lighting—ultra-efficient, long-lasting, and suitable for nearly every indoor and outdoor application.
Fluorescent Bulbs
- Color Temperature: 3000K–6500K
- Luminous Efficacy: 45–100 lumens/watt
- Average Lifespan: ~7,000–15,000 hours
- Fluorescent bulbs, including tubes and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs), are widely used in offices, schools, and commercial spaces. They offer consistent brightness across larger areas and are more energy-efficient than incandescent bulbs. However, they may require a ballast for operation and can flicker slightly when first powered on.
HID Bulbs (High-Intensity Discharge)
- Color Temperature: 3000K–6000K+ depending on type (Metal Halide, Sodium, Mercury Vapor)
- Luminous Efficacy: 75–125 lumens/watt
- Average Lifespan: ~10,000–24,000 hours
- These ultra-bright bulbs are perfect for stadiums, street lights, and large warehouses. Not ideal for home use, but excellent for industrial applications.
Smart Bulbs
- Color Temperature: Tunable, usually 2200K–6500K (some models include RGB color)
- Luminous Efficacy: Varies by manufacturer
- Features: Wi-Fi/Bluetooth control, scheduling, dimming, voice assistant integration
- Smart bulbs combine LED efficiency with advanced controls, allowing users to adjust color temperature, brightness, and more via apps or voice commands.
Types of Light Bulb Bases
Light bulb bases are the connectors that allow bulbs to fit securely into their sockets and conduct electricity. Choosing the right base type is crucial for compatibility with your fixtures. Here are the most common light bulb base types.
Edison Screw Base (E Series)
- Examples: E12 (candelabra), E26 (standard), E39 (mogul)
- Application: E26 is standard for most household lighting in North America. E12 is common in chandeliers and night lights.
- Note: The number indicates the diameter in millimeters (e.g., E26 = 26mm).
Bayonet Base (B Series)
- Examples: B15, B22
- Application: Common in the UK and parts of Europe, especially in ceiling fixtures.
- Mechanism: These bases lock in with a push-and-twist motion.
Bi-pin Base (G Series)
- Examples: GU10, G4, G9, G13
- Application: Used for spotlights, under-cabinet lights, fluorescent tubes (G13), and compact lamps.
- Note: Distance between the pins (in millimeters) defines the type.
Twist-and-Lock Base
- Examples: GU10
- Application: Common in recessed and track lighting. Requires a twist to secure into the socket.
Wedge Base
- Application: Found in small, low-voltage bulbs like landscape lighting and automotive bulbs.
- Mechanism: Wedge shape allows the bulb to press into the socket.
Fluorescent Pin Base
- Examples: 2-pin and 4-pin configurations
- Application: CFLs and tube lights; often used in commercial or industrial lighting fixtures.
Types of Light Bulb Sockets
Here’s a brief overview of the types of light bulb sockets commonly used in residential and commercial lighting.
E26 (Medium Base)
The default for most U.S. household lighting.
Compatible with standard A19 LED, incandescent, and CFL bulbs.
Typically used in lamps, ceiling fixtures, and recessed lights.
E12 (Candelabra Base)
Smaller screw base, often used in chandeliers, sconces, and decorative lights.
Compatible with B10 or flame-tip bulbs.
E14 (Small Edison Screw)
Common in Europe and parts of Asia.
Used in small lamps and decorative fixtures.
E17 (Intermediate Base)
Between E12 and E26 in size.
Found in appliance bulbs, ceiling fans, or specialty lighting.
GU10
Twist-and-lock spotlight base.(common in recessed lighting)
Typically found in 120V halogen or LED bulbs.
GU24
Two-pin twist-lock design.
Often used in energy-efficient fixtures and required by code in some locations.
MR16 (GU5.3 or Bi-pin)
Low-voltage, two-pin connector (usually 12V).
Used in recessed or landscape lighting.
G4 / G9 / G6.35 (Bi-pin and Loop Pins)
Compact sockets for specialty applications like under-cabinet lighting or small desk lamps.
B22 (Bayonet Cap)
Common in UK, Australia, and India.
Twist-and-lock mechanism rather than screw base.
Bonus: Specialty Sockets
Mogul Base (E39/E40) – Used in high-wattage industrial fixtures.
R7s – Linear double-ended socket for floodlights or security lights.
GX23 / 2G11 – Used in compact fluorescent bulbs and some commercial fixtures.
Tip: Always check socket compatibility before purchasing a bulb—especially when switching from traditional to LED lighting.
Types of LED Light Bulbs
LED light bulbs come in various shapes, sizes, and functionalities to suit different lighting needs. Here are the most common types:
A-Series (A19, A21): Classic shape for everyday lamps and ceiling lights.
BR and R Series: Bulged reflector bulbs used in recessed cans and track lighting for directional light.
PAR Series: Parabolic aluminized reflector bulbs, often used in outdoor or accent lighting where a focused beam is needed.
MR Series: Multifaceted reflector bulbs for spotlights and display lighting, common in retail or gallery spaces.
G Series (Globe bulbs): Round and decorative, perfect for vanities or pendant lights.
Candelabra (B or C Series): Flame-tip or torpedo shapes used in chandeliers or sconces.
Tube LEDs (T5, T8, T12): Linear LEDs that replace traditional fluorescent tubes in offices, garages, or kitchens.
Corn Bulbs: High-output LEDs with multiple small diodes, used for street lamps or industrial lighting.
Each type offers distinct light patterns, beam angles, and aesthetic styles—making LED bulbs a versatile solution for both residential and commercial use.
Types of Ceiling Fan Light Bulbs
Ceiling fan light bulbs come in several shapes and base types to suit different fan fixtures and lighting preferences. The most common types include:
A15 Bulbs: Smaller than standard A19 bulbs, A15s are the most common for ceiling fans due to their compact size and balanced brightness.
B10/B11 (Candelabra Bulbs): These bulbs have a flame or torpedo shape and fit into E12 bases, often used for decorative or vintage-style ceiling fans.
G16.5/G25 (Globe Bulbs): Round and stylish, these are used in fans where the bulbs are visible, offering both form and function.
E26 Medium Base Bulbs: Standard socket size for larger fixtures, compatible with various bulb shapes like A19 or LED equivalents.
LED Ceiling Fan Bulbs: Energy-efficient replacements in any of the above shapes, available in various color temperatures and dimmable options.
Halogen Bulbs: Offer bright, crisp light and are sometimes used for more intense illumination, though less energy-efficient.
Choosing the right bulb type depends on the fan's socket size, the desired brightness, and the overall design of the room.
Which Bulb Type of Light for Bathrooms
For bathrooms, the best bulb types are those that offer bright, clear, and flattering light—especially around mirrors and vanities. Here are the recommended bulb types for bathrooms, depending on the purpose and fixture.
Best Bulb Types for Bathrooms
LED Bulbs (Recommended)
Why: Energy-efficient, available in various shapes and color temperatures, low heat output, long lifespan.
Ideal Color Temperature: 3000K to 4000K for a clean, natural light that’s flattering for skin tones.
Ideal CRI: 90+ for accurate color rendering, especially useful for grooming or makeup.
Globe Bulbs (G25, G30)
Perfect for vanities.
Provide wide, even illumination across mirrors.
A19 or A15 LED Bulbs
For overhead or wall sconces.
Choose dimmable models for flexible ambiance.
Recessed Lighting Bulbs (BR30, PAR20, PAR30)
Used in shower areas or as general downlighting.
Look for wet-rated options for safety.
Compact Fluorescent Bulbs (CFLs)
Less common today due to slower startup and lower CRI.
If used, opt for soft white (2700K–3000K) or daylight (5000K) tones depending on preference.
Other Tips
Always choose damp- or wet-rated bulbs for safety.
Avoid overly cool light (above 5000K), which can feel sterile in a bathroom.
For a spa-like effect, use layered lighting with dimmable LEDs and accent fixtures.
Top Choice for Bathroom Light Bulbs
LED Globe Bulbs or A19s with 3000K–4000K color temp and CRI 90+, rated for damp locations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bulbs
What Are the 3 Types of Light Bulbs
The three most common types are incandescent, fluorescent, and LED. Each differs in energy efficiency, lifespan, and light quality.
Type of Incandescent Light Bulb
Incandescent bulbs typically come in standard (A-series), globe, candle, and reflector shapes, using tungsten filaments to emit warm, soft light.
Type of Bulb in Christmas Lights
Christmas lights often use mini incandescent bulbs or LED bulbs, available in both string and net styles, offering energy savings and longer life.
Which Type of Bulb Is Best for Eyes
LED bulbs with a color temperature of 2700K–3000K and high CRI (Color Rendering Index) are gentler on the eyes and reduce strain.
What Is the Best Light Bulb for Reading
A 3000K–4000K LED bulb with adjustable brightness is ideal for reading, offering clear, balanced lighting without glare.
What Type of Bulb Gives the Best Light
LED bulbs offer the best overall light quality—bright, energy-efficient, and available in a wide range of color temperatures for every setting.