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How do I choose the right bulb socket?

There are several of variants when it comes to the number of different lamp sockets. With the following guide, we are going to bring order into the diversity of different sockets. There are clear characteristics that make the distinction easy and which will surely lead you to the appropriate LED alternative. There are two common socket types, which are the classic screw socket (Edison) and the pin socket. All replacements are 1:1 possible without any mechanical or electrical adjustments. If you use light bulbs together with dimmers, which is quite common for decorative lighting fixtures, please pay attention to compatible LED alternatives.


Tip

Tip


Always check for the old socket type, otherwise the new bulb will not fit!

 

What are the most common lamp holders/lamp bases for LED lights?

Recognising and using the most common sockets prevents you from making a mistake on buying and installing the wrong lighting. These are the most common lamp bases:

 

Edison-Socket

 

The most common light bulb sockets are the E14 and E27, the number is being based on the diameter (in mm) of the bulb thread. The identification 'E' refers to the Edison rotary thread, which is simply screwed into the corresponding fitting.

 

Bayonet-Socket

The Bayonet-Socket is a T-shaped socket with with vertical positioned pins on both sides. This socket is well known as the B15. Additionally there is also the B22 socket, referring to the Bayonet socket, which you only have to plug in and rotate for 180°.




Pin-Socket

Traditional bulbs which are not equipped with the classic Edison-Socket (those are mostly Halogen bulbs and Fluorescent Tubes), have a so-called pin-socket with two pins. These bulb sockets are classified with a 'G', which stands for glass, as this was the original material the contact pins were made from.

 

If you are looking for spotlights in your kitchen or living room, these lights will probably have a GU10 bulb socket. 'GU' indicates that it is a plug-in socket with a turning lock. You push the bulb into the fitting and then rotate the bulb until it is in place (same principle like the Bayonet socket).



Like the E-Sockets, the number behind the letter is a measure, which refers to the distance between the two poles in millimeters. Click here to read more about choosing the right GU10 bulb.




 

You are looking for a specific light bulb, but your fixture socket is different?


Do you have got the wrong socket for a new LED bulb? We got an easy solution for you. In our shop you can find a variety of adapters from our own brand.
With these adapters, you can use for example E14 light bulbs in an E27 bulb socket and more! Check out all the possibilities here.