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What is an E12 Light Bulb?

What is an E12 Light Bulb? - Nostalgicbulbs.com

Ilan Solomon |

You’d be remiss if you picture just a single, classic light bulb in your mind’s eye when imagining lighting. But in truth, there are countless light bulb shapes, sizes, and varieties to choose from. When putting together a lighting scheme in your home or office, lighting truly makes all the difference.

One of the more popular unconventional shapes is the E12 light bulb. But, you may be wondering: what is an E12 light bulb, exactly? All we can say is read on the find out!

E12 Light Bulb Base Size

One of the main distinguishing features of the E12 light bulb is the size of its screw base. But what is an E12 light bulb base and how is it distinct?

The standard light bulb size you likely have screwed into lamps around your home is an E26 light bulb size. But that “26” in the name isn’t just some random number. It actually refers to the base width of the bulb.

As you can imagine, an E12 and an E26 base are different from each other not just in name but in base widths. So, what does an E12 light bulb mean in terms of size? An E12 light bulb base size is just 12mm across, meaning it will not fit into E26 sockets.

E12 Light Bulb Shapes

Much like more traditional E26 light bulbs, E12 light bulbs can be quite varied. While the base always stays the same in terms of width, the bulb itself can come in all sorts of shapes and bulb sizes.

The most common is likely use in candelabras, where the E12 light bulb mimics the size and shape of a small candle flame.

However, E12s are available in various other popular shapes, including:

  • Globe
  • Ellipsoid
  • Tubular
  • Pear
  • Teardrop
  • And more.

Many people use B10 as an E12 light bulb equivalent, but don’t fall into this trap. That’s because B10 refers to the bulged bulb shape, but doesn’t account for the screw base size. To ensure your bulb will fit your E12 socket, be sure to purchase bulbs specifically labeled E12.

E12 Light Bulb Brightness

Despite their small stature, E12 light bulbs can be surprisingly bright. This is largely due to recent developments in LED lighting technology. Unlike traditional incandescent bulbs, LEDs can get much brighter without the risk of overheating.

They come in a variety of brightnesses, ranging from:

  • 100-300 lumens for low wattage bulbs,
  • 300-600 lumens for medium wattage bulbs, and
  • 600-800 lumens for high wattage bulbs.

Keep in mind, general lighting is fine at between 800 and 1000 lumens. But for task lighting, you’ll want between 1500 and 2000 lumens to properly see your work.

Uses for E12 Light Bulbs

These diminutive light bulbs are often referred to as candelabra bulbs. Why? Because you can typically find them screwed into ceiling-hung light fixtures.

Lanterns represent a continued trendsetter for today’s lighting design. As you can imagine, E12s sit comfortably in most lantern and pendant light fixtures.

However, they can also be used in decorative lighting as:

  • Wall sconces,
  • String lights,
  • Accent lighting,
  • And more.

Find Beautiful E12 Light Bulbs at Nostalgic Bulbs

Certainly, there are countless uses for E12 bulbs around your home and office. With myriad shapes, brightnesses, and characteristics to consider, you can find the small bulb that’s perfect for you. And Nostalgic Bulbs can help you do it.

Our selection of classically styled E12 light bulbs is sure to bring character to any light fixture into which it’s screwed. We offer bright, beautiful, and classic looking LED bulbs in a variety of shapes to match any décor.

Are you ready to find beautiful E12 light bulbs and E12 light bulb equivalent sockets? Shop for LED Light Bulbs Today!

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