Start with the lamp's specifications
The right light source must fit both the fixture and the way you use the room. Before choosing brightness or colour, check whether the lamp takes a replaceable bulb or has integrated LED. Integrated LED does not always mean non-replaceable: service and replacement options depend on the model.
For a replaceable bulb, check the base, physical dimensions, voltage and permitted power. LED products differ in efficiency, rated life and dimming capability; use the actual product data rather than assuming one lifespan or saving applies to every bulb.
Lumens and watts
Lumens (lm) describe the total visible light output. Watts (W) describe electrical power consumption. Compare lumens when looking for similar output, but still respect the fixture's electrical limits.
Two sources with the same lumen output can illuminate a task differently because of beam angle, shade and distance. Light arriving on a surface is measured in lux. A single lumen figure cannot establish whether a whole room or reading position is adequately lit.
Plan light for the room
- Living room and bedroom: combine general light with reading and softer evening lighting. Check comfort from seated and lying positions.
- Kitchen and work areas: direct light onto the actual task, avoiding shadows cast by your body. More output is not a substitute for good placement.
- Hallway: provide clear orientation and enough light around steps and obstacles without glare.
Room size, surface colours, age and visual needs all affect the choice. Treat sample brightness figures as starting points, not guarantees for every room.
Colour temperature
Colour temperature in kelvin (K) describes the light's appearance, not its brightness. Lower values look warmer; higher values look cooler. Around 2200 K has a notably warm appearance, 2700–3000 K is commonly described as warm white, and around 4000 K looks cooler. These are choices, not mandatory settings for particular rooms.
Compare the light with your furnishings and neighbouring lamps. Similar kelvin values do not guarantee identical colour appearance. Some warm-dim products change colour as they dim; ordinary dimmable products need not do so.
Reduce glare
A frosted or opal bulb can soften the appearance of the source, but no bulb is glare-free in every position. Clear filament-style LEDs can leave bright elements directly visible. Consider shielding, viewing angle, distance and output together.
Opal shades, including some glass wall lights, can diffuse light. Clear glass does not necessarily do so. Indirect lighting and compatible dimming can help, but check the actual result from where you sit or stand.
Common bases: E27, E14 and GU10
- E27: a larger screw base.
- E14: a smaller screw base.
- GU10: a two-pin twist-lock base used in various spotlights and other fixtures.
These are examples, not an exhaustive list. Check the exact fixture—even within one brand, bases and integrated-light designs vary. Never force a bulb or choose by appearance alone.
Dimming compatibility
Not every LED bulb is dimmable. If dimming is required, choose a product specified for it and check compatibility with the fixture, driver and control. A “dimmable” label does not mean it will work with every dimmer.
Follow the manufacturer's compatibility information, including applicable load limits. Do not assume an old incandescent dimmer is suitable for LED. Smart lighting may use a different control arrangement; check its instructions before combining controls.
Match the source to the fixture
Wall lights
For wall lights, consider whether the job is reading, accent or ambient light. Our wall light guide covers positioning and materials.
Chandeliers and pendants
Several bulbs add up in total source output, but shades and direction affect how much reaches the room. Check each socket's limit and assess glare at the dining table. Explore our chandelier guide.
Bathroom lighting
At a mirror, check light distribution and colour rendering as well as colour temperature. A kelvin value alone does not guarantee faithful colours. Have suitability for the intended position assessed according to local installation requirements; see our bathroom lighting guide.
Colour rendering
CRI, often shown as Ra, indicates colour fidelity relative to a reference source. A higher value can be useful where the appearance of skin, food or materials matters, but it is not a complete measure of lighting quality. Compare colour rendering alongside glare, output, beam and flicker information where available.
Frequently asked questions
How many lumens do I need?
It depends on the task, room, fixture and distance. Compare with your existing setup and check the light where it is needed rather than relying on one room-wide number.
Does higher wattage mean brighter light?
Not reliably across different products. Compare lumen output and observe the fixture's permitted power.
Which colour temperature is best?
Choose the appearance that suits the activity and your preference. Kelvin does not describe brightness or colour rendering.
Must every LED be dimmable?
No. A non-dimmable source may suit an on/off installation; a dimming setup requires confirmed compatibility.
Find a suitable light source
Explore our bulbs and light sources and lighting collection. Check the fixture instructions before ordering and keep the specifications for future replacements.
