Types of light bulbs: Everything you need to know

Light bulbs are an essential element of home and professional lighting. With technological advancements, there are now a multitude of bulb types suited to different uses. Whether for general, decorative, or functional lighting, choosing the right bulb can make all the difference. In this article, we will explore all types of light bulbs , their specific characteristics, advantages, and uses.

The main types of light bulbs

There are different types of light bulbs , each with its own characteristics in terms of consumption, lifespan and light output.

Incandescent light bulbs (Obsolete but still in use)

Incandescent light bulbs have long been the most common. They produce light by heating a tungsten filament to a high temperature.

Features :

• Warm and pleasant light
• Low energy efficiency
• Short lifespan (approximately 1,000 hours)

📌 Note: These light bulbs are being gradually withdrawn from the market due to their high energy consumption.

Halogen light bulbs: more efficient but energy-intensive

Halogen bulbs are an improvement on incandescent bulbs, offering better light efficiency.

Benefits :

• Instant and natural light
• Better color rendering
• More effective than traditional light bulbs

Disadvantages:

• High energy consumption
• Limited lifespan (approximately 2,000 hours)

Compact fluorescent light bulbs: a transition towards energy saving

Compact fluorescent lamps are a more economical alternative to traditional light bulbs.

Why choose them?

• Low energy consumption
• Longer lifespan (up to 10,000 hours)
• Available in different color temperatures

However, they contain a small amount of mercury, which complicates their recycling.

LED bulbs: the lighting revolution

LED bulbs are now the standard for home and professional lighting.

Advantages of LEDs:

• Very low energy consumption
• Exceptional lifespan (up to 50,000 hours)
• Available in several color temperatures and intensities
• They barely heat up

They are ideal for all types of household light bulbs , from general lighting to decorative lamps.

LED bulbs are very common today: see which LED to choose for a living room .

The different shapes of light bulbs

Besides the type of technology, light bulbs come in several shapes adapted to different light fixtures.

Standard light bulb (A60)

This is the classic shape, perfect for bedside lamps and ceiling lights.

Globe bulb

Larger in size, it is used for broader and decorative lighting.

Light bulb flame

Ideal for chandeliers and wall sconces, it imitates the shape of a candle flame.

Tube bulb

Often used in office and kitchen lighting fixtures.

Types of light bulb bases

The type of bulb base is an essential criterion to consider before buying a light bulb. It determines compatibility with light fixtures and influences ease of installation.

Screw base (E27, E14)

The most common type in homes, the screw base is used for the majority of household lamps.

• E27 : Large standard socket for ceiling lights and bedside lamps.
• E14 : Small base often found in desk lamps and decorative lighting fixtures.

Bayonet fitting (B22)

This type of base, although less common today, is still used on some older light fixtures.

• Rotating fixing mechanism for secure installation.
• Often found in old French and British lamps.

GU10 and GU5.3 base

Specifically designed for recessed spotlights and projectors.

• GU10 : Works directly on 230V, ideal for ceiling spotlights.
• GU5.3 : Works with a transformer, used for low voltage lighting.

Which light bulb should I choose depending on the intended use?

Conclusion

There are many types of light bulbs , and they must be chosen according to energy efficiency, light output, and intended use. Today, LEDs dominate the market thanks to their numerous advantages.

If you are looking for quality lighting for your interior, discover our collection of Bedside Lamps which combines design and functionality!