Guide Light Bulb Sizes, Types, Shapes, and Codes

When you want to upgrade your home or commercial lighting, choosing the right light bulb often feels more complicated than expected. Адже, today’s market offers countless bulb sizes, shapes, and styles. Проте, once you understand how light bulbs are classified, the process becomes much easier.

In this guide, we will clearly explain light bulb sizes, types, shapes, and codes, helping you confidently select the right bulb for both functional and decorative lighting applications. At the same time, this article will serve as a practical reference for designers, retailers, and lighting professionals.

1. Common Light Bulb Categories

To begin with, manufacturers classify light bulbs primarily by shape. This system makes it easier to identify compatible bulbs for different fixtures. In general, the most common light bulb categories include:

• A Type – Standard household bulbs

• C Type – Candle-shaped bulbs

• G Type – Globe bulbs

• T Type – Tubular bulbs

• MR Type – Multifaceted reflector bulbs

• PAR Type – Parabolic aluminized reflector bulbs

Moreover, each bulb follows a standardized naming format that combines letters and numbers. While the letters indicate the bulb’s shape, the numbers describe its diameter. As a result, these codes help you quickly determine whether a bulb will fit your fixture.

2. Detailed Explanation of Common Bulb Shapes and Models

A Type Bulbs – Standard and Oversized Household Bulbs

First and foremost, A-type light bulbs remain the most widely used bulbs in residential and commercial lighting. The letter “A” refers to a standard bulb shape, while the number represents the bulb’s diameter.

Common A-type models include:

• A19 (A60) – The most common standard household bulb

• A21 – Slightly larger and brighter than A19

• A70, A125, A165 – Large bulbs designed for higher brightness or decorative fixtures

• A165 Irregular – Creative and irregular-shaped designs

• A180 – Extra-large bulbs for statement lighting

Because of their versatility, A-type bulbs work well in living rooms, спальні, pendant lights, ceiling fixtures, and many commercial spaces. Check here for more models.

C Type Bulbs – Candle Bulbs

Next, C-type bulbs, also known as candle bulbs, feature a slim shape with a pointed or flame-like tip. As their name suggests, these bulbs resemble traditional candles and emphasize elegance.

Typical models include:

• C35 – Classic candle bulb

Therefore, designers often use C-type bulbs in chandeliers, wall sconces, decorative pendants, and table lamps to create a warm and refined atmosphere.

G Type Bulbs – Globe Bulbs

In contrast to candle bulbs, G-type bulbs feature a spherical or globe-shaped design. Because of their strong visual impact, globe bulbs play an important role in decorative lighting.

Common G-type models include:

• G4, G9 – Compact capsule-style bulbs

• G45 – Mini globe bulb

• G30, G80, G95 – Popular decorative globe sizes

• G125 – Large globe bulb

• G125 Irregular – Creative or custom globe designs

• G180, G200 – Extra-large statement bulbs

• G300 – Super oversized decorative bulbs

As a result, G-type bulbs appear frequently in bathroom vanity lighting, кафе, ресторани, готелі, and vintage-style interiors.

T Type Bulbs – Tubular Bulbs

Meanwhile, T-type bulbs feature a long cylindrical shape and suit both decorative and functional lighting needs.

Modern decorative tubular bulb models include:

• Т30, T45 – Slim decorative tubes

• T185, T200, T300 – Extra-long statement bulbs, longer size can be customized as requested.

Крім того, traditional fluorescent tube models include:

• T5 – 5/8-inch diameter

• T7

• T8 – 1-inch diameter

• T12 – 1.5-inch diameter

You will often find T-type bulbs in kitchens, garages, офіси, workshops, and retail environments. Сьогодні, however, LED replacements have largely taken over, offering better efficiency, longer lifespan, and lower maintenance costs.

MR Type Bulbs – Multifaceted Reflector Bulbs

Moving on to MR-type bulbs, these bulbs specialize in producing highly focused and directional light.

The most common model is:

• MR16

Because MR16 bulbs provide precise beam control, lighting designers frequently use them in track lighting, recessed lighting, display cabinets, landscape lighting, and accent lighting applications.

PAR Type Bulbs – Parabolic Aluminized Reflector Bulbs

Similarly, PAR bulbs deliver powerful illumination with controlled beam angles. Крім того, they offer excellent durability.

Common PAR models include:

• PAR16

• PAR20

• PAR30

• PAR36

• PAR38

Consequently, PAR bulbs are ideal for outdoor lighting, floodlights, architectural lighting, and commercial environments where strong, focused light is essential.

3. LED Technology and the Rise of Creative Bulb Designs

With the rapid advancement of LED lighting technology, bulb design has evolved dramatically. Not only has LED improved energy efficiency, but it has also expanded design possibilities.

Today’s market now offers:

• Extra-large bulbs such as BT180

• Tower-shaped or pagoda-style bulbs

• Irregular-shaped bulbs

• Diamond-shaped bulbs

• Pumpkin-shaped bulbs

• Skull-shaped decorative bulbs

• Highly customized LED filament designs-check here for more info

As a result, modern decorative lighting no longer treats bulbs as hidden components. Instead, designers use bulbs as focal points that define the overall atmosphere of a space.

4. About Light Bulb Types – Need More Information?

If you would like more details about light bulb sizes, shapes, bases, wattage, люменів, or applications, please feel free to contact us directly. Our lighting experts will gladly help you choose the most suitable products for your project.

5. Wholesale Lighting and Business Opportunities

Нарешті, if you are interested in sourcing light bulbs at wholesale prices, developing your local lighting business, or exploring OEM and ODM lighting solutions, we invite you to get in touch with us.

👉 Зв'яжіться з нами today for bulk pricing and professional lighting support.
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By understanding light bulb sizes, types, shapes, and codes, you can make smarter lighting decisions, enhance visual appeal, and create lighting designs that truly stand out.