
E14 bulbs, also known as bulbs with a small screw fitting, are commonly used light sources in homes and small fixtures. The 'E' in E14 stands for Edison, the inventor of the incandescent bulb, and the number '14' refers to the diameter of the screw base in millimeters. These bulbs offer a simple way to add light by simply screwing them into the fixture. Over the years, the traditional E14 incandescent bulb has evolved, with LED technology now being the standard.
Switching to E14 LED bulbs offers significant advantages compared to older incandescent and halogen lights. These benefits contribute to both lower costs and a better environment.
When replacing a traditional E14 bulb with an LED version, lumen output is now the decisive factor for light intensity, rather than wattage. Use the table below to find a suitable LED replacement.
Traditional E14 Wattage | LED E14 Lumens (approx.) |
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15W | 130-150 lm |
25W | 200-250 lm |
40W | 400-470 lm |
60W | 800-850 lm |
The E14 fitting is standard, but the bulbs are available in various shapes and finishes to meet different aesthetic and functional needs.
Shape | Description and Application |
---|---|
Candle Bulb | A classic shape, often found in chandeliers and decorative fixtures. Commonly available with or without a curved tip. |
Globe Bulb (Lustre) | A compact, round shape suitable for smaller fixtures or where a less conspicuous bulb is desired. |
Pear Shape | The traditional, widely recognized bulb shape, versatile for general illumination. |
Reflector Bulb | Equipped with an internal reflector to focus the light. These bulbs are ideal for accent lighting, such as in spotlights or display cases. |
Tubular (Stick) | A narrow, elongated shape, often used in refrigerators, sewing machines, or range hoods where space is limited. |
In terms of finish, E14 bulbs are available with frosted glass for diffused light, or clear glass, where the filaments in LED filament bulbs are visible for a decorative effect.
The light color, expressed in Kelvin (K), influences the ambiance of a space. E14 bulbs are available in various color temperatures to meet specific needs.
Color Temperature (Kelvin) | Characteristics and Common Applications |
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2000K - 2700K (Very Warm White to Warm White) | Creates a warm, cozy atmosphere, similar to candlelight or traditional incandescent light. Suitable for living rooms, bedrooms, restaurants, and hospitality venues. |
3000K (Warm White) | Offers a neutral, pleasant white tone suited for general spaces like hallways, landings, and reception areas. |
4000K (Cool White) | A bright and fresh white light that enhances concentration. Ideal for workplaces, kitchens, offices, and garages. |
6500K (Daylight) | Strong, bright light resembling natural daylight; useful for tasks requiring precision, such as in laboratories or workshops. |
Many E14 LED bulbs are dimmable, allowing you to adjust the light intensity. This gives you the option to change the ambiance of a room and can also save extra energy, since the bulb doesn't always run at full power. For dimming LED E14 bulbs, a compatible LED dimmer is required. Conventional dimmers are often incompatible with LED technology and may cause flickering or malfunction.
A special category is 'Dim to Warm' lighting. These bulbs not only change brightness when dimmed but also their color temperature. The more you dim, the warmer (more yellow) the light becomes, creating a particularly atmospheric effect. This is a highly requested feature for living rooms or hospitality spaces where ambiance flexibility is important.
Additionally, E14 smart bulbs are available, which can be controlled via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or Zigbee with a smartphone or tablet. These often offer advanced features such as setting schedules, changing light color (RGBW), and integration with smart home systems.
The beam angle of an E14 bulb, measured in degrees, indicates how wide the light is spread. The choice of a specific beam angle depends on the intended application of the bulb.
Installing an E14 bulb is a simple process due to its screw fitting. Ensure the power is turned off before replacing the bulb. Unscrew the old bulb from the fixture by turning it to the left, then screw the new E14 bulb into the socket clockwise until it is secure. Power can then be turned back on. Always check the specifications of both the fixture and the bulb to ensure compatibility.