10 Different Types of LED Lamps | A Comprehensive Guide

  • Home Decor 101
  • Posted by: amy-golden
  • Jul 13, 2024

LED (Light-Emitting Diode) lamps are becoming more and more popular as they are perfect energy-efficient and sustainable lighting solutions, especially with the increase in the number of people caring about environmental issues.

LED lamp types are categorized by a wide range of shapes, sizes, unique characteristics, and practical uses. Some of the most popular LED lamp types currently available in the market include:

  • A19 LED Lamps: As the standard replacement for traditional incandescent bulbs, A19 LED lamps are widely used in a variety of residential and commercial settings.
  • PAR30 and PAR38 LED Lamps: These high-output, directional LED lamps are commonly used in outdoor floodlights, high-bay lighting, and commercial lighting applications.
  • T8 LED Lamps: These tube-style LED lamps are popular replacements for traditional fluorescent T8 tubes, offering significant energy savings and a longer lifespan.
  • MR16 LED Lamps: Compact and versatile, MR16 LED lamps are often used in track lighting, recessed lighting, and accent lighting applications.
  • BR30 and BR40 LED Lamps: These reflector-style LED lamps are well-suited for recessed lighting, track lighting, and outdoor floodlight applications.

LED lamps can be classified into several distinct groups, each with its own features, and applications. Let's dive into the details of these different types:

The A Group: A15, A17, A19, A20, A21, A23 and A25

The A group of LED lamps is the most common and widely recognized led lamp type. These lamps have iconic ball-like shaped bulbs, which mimic traditional incandescent bulb shape. They are often used for household uses, basic features, and direct replacements for older, less efficient lighting solutions.

Most importantly, they use the same socket type, which is the E26 medium base. This allows them be interchangeable in most standard household fixtures, helping you easily to fix a lamp, especially when replacing bulbs.

A group led lamp type (source: electronicshub)
A group led lamp type (source: electronicshub)
Category Features Pros Cons
A15 LED Lamps
  • Light bulb diameter of about 1.8 inches (45mm) or 3.3 inches (84mm)
  • Compact
  • Pear-shaped bulbs
  • Available from around 4 watts to 10 watts
  • Commonly used for desk lamps, vanity lights, and ceiling-mounted fixtures
  • Offer a warm, inviting glow
  • Save energy
  • Long lifespan
  • Easy to change light bulbs
  • Less bright than others types of LED lamp
  • Less dimmable
A17 LED Lamps
  • Light bulb diameter of about 2.125 inches (54mm)
  • Slightly elongated shape bulbs
  • Range from 6 to 12 watts in power
  • Usually create halogen white with a temperature of around 2,500K
  • Commonly used for table lamps, floor lamps, and other medium-sized fixtures.
  • Affordable
  • Energy efficient
  • Dimmable
  • Long lifespan
  • Not very popular in the market
A19 LED Lamps
  • Light bulb diameter of about 2.375 inches (60mm)
  • Standard replacement for traditional incandescent bulb lamps
  • Used in a variety of lighting applications
  • Available from 4 watts to 20 watts
  • Versatile
  • Energy efficient
  • Dimmable
  • Long lifespan
  • Very popular
A20 & A21 LED Lamps
  • Light bulb diameter of about 2.625 inches (67mm)
  • Emit light omnidirectionally
  • Commonly used as ceiling-mounted lights and outdoor floodlights
  • Range from 10 to 25 watts in power
  • Create Halogen White (2,700K) or Warm White (3,200K) light
  • Suitable for general or ambient lighting
  • Ideal to illuminate a larger areas
A23 LED Lamps
  • Light bulb diameter of about 2.88 inches (73 mm)  and the largest in the A group
  • Used in high-output applications such as garage lighting, porch lights, and outdoor floodlight
  • Range from 15 to 30 watts in power
  • Provides a plenty bright
  • Suitable for outdoor illumination
  • Dimmable
A25 LED Lamps
  • The light bulb diameter of around 3.15 inches (80 mm)
  • Designed for use in larger fixtures, such as high-bay lighting and industrial applications
  • Typically range from 20 to 40 watts in power
  • Good choice for commercial uses
  • Better heat dissipation than other A-shaped bulbs
Highest power consumption in A group

Did you know not only LED lamps have A-shaped light bulbs but also CFLs and others? Read an in-depth analysis of the type of A light bulb, which consists of A15, A19, A21, and A25, with the most common being A19 if needed.

The G Group: G11, G14, G16/G50, G60, G25/G80, G30

The G group of LED lamps is characterized by their round shape, commonly used in decorative and specialty lighting applications such as kitchen lights, ornamental fixtures, chandeliers, and foyer lights.

A g80 led lamp example (source: silamp)
A g80 led lamp example (source: silamp)
Category Features Pros Cons
G11 LED Lamps
  • Light bulb diameter of around 1.38 inches (35 mm), smallest in the G group 
  • Commonly be recessed lighting, track lighting, and undercabinet lighting
  • Decorative lighting 
  • Suitable for small spaces
  • Set a sense of mood
Dimming light
G14 LED Lamps
  • Light bulb diameter of 1.75 inches (44 mm)
  • Commonly used as wall sconces and chandeliers
  • Decorative
  • Provide accent illumination
  • Environmentally friendly  
Dimming light, not bright enough
G16/G50 LED Lamps
  • Light bulb diameter of around 2 inches (50 mm)
  • Commonly  be pendant lights, vanity fixtures lights
  • Decorative
  • Provide gentle lighting
  • Environmentally friendly 
Dimming light, not bright enough
G60 LED Lamps
  • Light bulb diameter of around 2.36 inches (60 mm)
  • Often be chandeliers and pendant lights
  • Decorative
  • Provide broader gentle white lighting
  • Environmentally friendly
Not bright enough 
G25/G80 LED Lamps
  • Light bulb diameter of around 3.15 inches (80 mm)
  • Commonly be wall packs and high-bay fixtures
  • Fill ambiance with light 
  • Be a good choice for outdoor and commercial uses
Higher energy consumption than others led lamps
G30 LED Lamps
  • The most widely used
  • Light bulb diameter of around 3.75 inches (95 mm)
  • Typically be garage lighting, porch lights, and outdoor floodlights
  • Fill ambiance with light
  • Provide high-output lighting
  • Be a good choice for commercial uses
Higher energy consumption than others led lamps

The B Group: B10, B15, B22

The B groups of LED lamps indicate narrow, bullet-like shapes of light bulbs, bulging at the base and tapering to a pointy tip that can emit light 360 degrees on a horizontal orientation. That’s why B led lamp types suitable for general or ambient lighting, and decorative applications.

Difference between b15 and b22 led lamp types (source: ledhut)
Difference between b15 and b22 led lamp types (source: ledhut)
Category Features Pros Cons
B10 LED Lamps
  • Light bulb diameter of around 1.25 inches (32 mm)
  • Commonly used as chandeliers, wall sconces, and other decorative lighting fixtures
  • Provide decorative lighting
  • Create elegant look for spaces
  • Long lifespan
  • Cool to the touch
  • Easier to break
  • Harder to find than standard bulbs
  • Lighting for ambiance only
B15 LED Lamps Light bulb diameter of  0.59 inch (15mm)  Suitable for dimmable applications

and vintage style

Small lighting
B22 LED Lamps
  • Popular in Western countries
  • Commonly have lampshades
  • Light bulb diameter of 0.86 inch (22mm) 
  • Create diffused lighting
  • More resistant to shock and vibration
  • Energy efficiency
  • Durability
  • Wide range of options
High price

The C Group C7, C9, C15, CA10

C led lamp types are categorized by cone-shaped and bent tips light bulbs, which makes them look like the flickering flame of a candle. They are special decorative elements in pendants, light strands, and chandeliers. 

C7 led lamp for christmas (source: stnickschristmaslighting)
C7 led lamp for christmas (source: stnickschristmaslighting)
Category Features Pros Cons
C7 and C9 LED Lamps
  • Light bulb diameter of around 1.0 inches (25 mm) and 1.13 inches (29 mm) respectively. 
  • Used as night lights, pathway lighting, and decorative string lights
  • Low-wattage
  • Energy efficient
  • Decorative
Dimming lighting 
C15 LED Lamps
  • Light bulb diameter of around 1.88 inches (48 mm) 
  • Commonly used in decorative and specialty lighting applications, such as wall sconces and pendant lights
  • Provide accent lighting 
  • Decorative
Not bright enough for focus activities
CA10 LED Lamps
  • Light bulb diameter of around 1.25 inches (32 mm) 
  • Used in outdoor and industrial lighting applications, such as wall packs and area lighting
Be a good choice for commercial uses Higher energy consumption than others Led lamp types

The E Group: E14, E27

E LED lamps use advanced technology involving semiconductors in the LED chip to produce light when current passes through. The most popular types are E27 and E14, both known for their outstanding energy efficiency, high performance, and long lifespan. E26 and E40 variants are also available in the market.

E14& e27 led lamp types (source: shopee)
E14& e27 led lamp types (source: shopee)
Category Features Pros Cons
E14 LED Lamps
  • 0.55-inch (14mm) diameter
  • Available in 3 different color temperatures: Warm White, Cool White and Daylight
  • Commonly applied in lighting fixtures as decorations and chandeliers
Having specialized applications such as microwave lighting and refrigerator lighting Less popular
E27 LED Lamps
  • 0.69 inch (27mm) diameter
  • Lumen output: warm or cool white light for decoration and ambient lighting
  • Typically used as table and floor lamps, pendant lights, ceiling fixtures, wall lamps
  • Popular
  • Quality light beam, no UV rays, highly directional
Higher price than E14 LED Lamps

The BR Group: BR20/R20, BR30, BR40

BR (which means a bulged reflector) led lamp types often have a bulged surface light bulb, made up of colored, frosted, clear, or patterned glass or plastic that helps diffuse and distribute wide beam angle or focused, directional beam of light.These lamps are often used in recessed and track lighting applications.

Br30 and br40 led lamp types (source: aidot)
Br30 and br40 led lamp types (source: aidot)
Category Features Pros Cons
BR20/R20 LED Lamps
  • 2.5-inch (63 mm) diameter
  • Commonly used in recessed lighting, track lighting, and other applications where a focused beam of light is required
  • Free from Mercury and UV radiation 
  • Excellent performance no flicker, no buzzing
May require an adapter or converter to use 
BR30 LED Lamps
  • 3.75-inch (95 mm) diameter
  • Often used in recessed lighting, track lighting, and outdoor floodlights
  • Smooth dimming
  • Offer daylight (close to sunlight), perfect for tasks that requires focus
Outlets and voltage differ internationally
BR40 LED Lamps
  • 3.75-inch (95 mm) diameter
  • Often used in recessed lighting, track lighting, and outdoor floodlights
  • Dimmable
  • Providing warm white lighting
  • Free from Mercury and UV radiation
Commonly designed for used in the US

The PAR Group: PAR16, PAR20, PAR30, PAR36/AR111, PAR38

The PAR (Parabolic Aluminized Reflectors) group of LED lamps is characterized by their reflective materials. They are designed to provide a wider, more diffuse beam of light and lumen output compared to the BR group. Compared to R and BR LED Lamp types, PAR light bulbs are shorter in length. These lamps are often used in spot and flood lighting applications and are ideal for areas where absolute brightness is necessary.

Par20, par30 and par38 led lamp types (source: led-lights)
Par20, par30 and par38 led lamp types (source: led-lights)
Category Features Pros Cons
PAR16 LED Lamps
  • 2-inch (50 mm) diameter
  • Commonly used in small fixtures like track lighting, recessed lighting, and accent lighting
  • Smooth dimming with no flicker and buzz
  • High-quality lighting
  • Wide applications
PAR20 LED Lamps
  • 2.5-inch (63 mm) diameter
  • Often used as recessed lighting, track lighting, and outdoor floodlights
  • Providing vibrant yellow lighting
  • Ideal for parties, holidays, and special events
Not compatible in some destinations.
PAR30 LED Lamps
  • 3.75-inch (95 mm) diameter
  • Commonly used in large fixtures, such as outdoor floodlights, high-bay lighting, and commercial lighting
  • Emitting warm glow
  • Reaching full brightness immediately when powered on
  • Dimmable to create different atmospheres as needed
PAR36/AR111 LED Lamps
  • 4.5-inch (114 mm) diameter
  • Often used in high-output applications, such as high-bay lighting, outdoor floodlights, and commercial lighting
Providing perfect warm white lighting High priceDesigned for low voltage
PAR38 LED Lamps
  • 5-inch (127 mm) diameter
  • Primarily found in security, workshops and commercial lighting
Fitting most standard socket Not dimmable

The MR group: MR11 and MR16

The MR (Multifaceted Reflector) LED lamp types are characterized by reflective lining light bulbs, which create low-profile and accent lighting. Moreover, due to the multi-faceted reflective material on an MR bulb, they can provide a directional beam of lighting.

Mr16 led lamp type example (source: ledvance)
Mr16 led lamp type example (source: ledvance)
Category Features Pros Cons
MR11 LED Lamps
  • 1.4-inch (35 mm)
  • Commonly used in small fixtures, such as track lighting, recessed lighting, and under-cabinet lighting
  • Flicker free
  • Generating minimal heat
  • Creating gentle warm white light 
Not dimmable 
MR16 LED Lamps
  • 2-inch (50 mm) diameter
  • Used in a wider range of applications, including track lighting, recessed lighting, and accent lighting
  • Dimmable 
  • Providing white natural light
  • Perfect for indoor or outside places

The R Group: R50, R63

R50 and R63 LED lamp types are standard replacements for R50 and R63 Incandescent and Halogen lamps. They not only provide significant energy and cost saving for traditional lamps, but also are perfect for long-burn areas in commercial, hospitality and residential applications.

Additionally, one reason why your lamp might be flickering is due to an inferior quality light bulb. You can replace it with R50 or R63 LED lamp types, as these lamps are designed to have low flickering.

R63 led lamp example (source: tlc-direct. Co. Uk)
R63 led lamp example (source: tlc-direct. Co. Uk)
Category Features Pros Cons
R50 LED Lamps
  • 1-inch (50.2mm) diameter
  • Fitting base diameter similar to an E14 Led lamps’ bulbs
  • Top of the bulb is designed to be flat
  • Providing natural light
  • Luminous flux comparable to a halogen lamp but consume lower energy
  • Long lifetime
  • Low flickering
Still having blue lighting
R63 LED Lamps
  • 2-inch (63mm) diameter
  • Screw base size is similar to E27 Led light bulbs
Same as R50 LED lamps but more greatly reduced blue component Often cost higher than R50 Led lamps

The T Group: T7, T8, T10, T14

The T group of LED lamp types is characterized by their tube-like shape, which is often used in linear lighting applications, such as fluorescent tube replacements. As other led lamp types, these lamps are long lasting, low energy, and low heat generation.

T10 led lamp example (source: amazon)
T10 led lamp example (source: amazon)
Category Features Pros Cons
T7 LED Lamps
  • 0.875-inch (22 mm) diameter
  • Commonly are small, linear fixtures, such as under-cabinet lighting and task lighting
  • Ideal for low profile fixtures due to distinctive slim shape
  • Emitting a warm and inviting light
  • Non-dimmable 
  • Frost finish
  • Medium base
T8 LED Lamps
  • 1-inch (25 mm) diameter 
  • Often used as direct replacements for traditional fluorescent T8 tubes in a variety of lighting applications, including office lighting, industrial lighting, and commercial lighting
  • Fast, simple and secure installation
  • Extremely safe to use
  • Easy to break or damage
  • Single or double end connection
T10 LED Lamps
  • 1.25-inch (32 mm) diameter
  • Commonly used in large linear fixtures, such as high-bay lighting and industrial lighting
  • Instant on to full brightness
  • Vintage style lighting
  • Dimmable
  • Quality and safety
Not very popular, hard to find in the market
T14 LED Lamps
  • 1.75-inch (44 mm) diameter
  • Commonly used in high-output linear lighting applications, such as high-bay lighting and industrial lighting
  • Same as T10 LED lamps
  • Providing a comforting bright light
Not very popular, hard to find in the market

Comparing Various LED Lamp Types

Applying LED lamp types information and considering their features and characteristics to choose the right LED lamp for your needs successfully. Here are some example comparisons based on some key factors:

Size and Shape Important factor deciding the beam angle and light distribution
Wattage and Lumen Output The higher wattage, the larger lumen output
Color Temperature Range of color temperatures: warm, cozy tones to cool, crisp white light.
Beam Angle  Determining the width and spread of the light: narrower beam angles for spot lighting, wider beam angles for general illumination
Efficiency and Lifespan All LED lamp types are well known for their high efficiency, long lifespan

Choosing the Right LED Lamp Type

Following and considering these factor to pick the right Led lamp type:

  • Intended use: Determine your lighting needs such as general illumination, task lighting, accent lighting, or outdoor lighting.
  • Lighting output: Consider the lumen output required to achieve the desired level of illumination, and select a lamp type with the appropriate wattage and lumen rating.
  • Beam angle: Determine what the beam angle that you want, is it narrow, focused or wider, more diffuse light distribution?
  • Color temperature: Decide on the desired color temperature, ranging from warm, cozy tones to cool, crisp white light, to suit your preferences and the overall ambiance.
  • Dimming capabilities: If you require the ability to adjust the light output, look for dimmable LED lamp types.
  • Energy efficiency: Although LED lamp types are energy efficient, some types (such as A25 LED lamps) have higher energy consumption than others leading to significant impact on your energy costs over time.
  • Lifespan: Opt for LED lamp types with a long lifespan to minimize the frequency of replacements and maintenance.
  • Compatibility: Ensure the LED lamp is compatible with your voltage power.

Conclusion

LED lighting is a remarkable development compared to previous traditional lights due to its energy efficiency, durability, and adaptability. LED lamp types have high applicability, diverse products and are applied in all areas of life.

Hope this in-depth analysis of various types of LED lamps can help you no longer feel confused when it comes to making informed decisions that enhance the quality and efficiency of your lighting setups.

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I work as a freelance blogger in Seattle, Washington. I've been freelancing full-time for 5 years. I'm interested in anime, resin art, and mechanical keyboards.

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