What types of fittings are there?
In practice, we most commonly encounter several frequently used fittings. Think of the E27 and E14 for general lighting, GU10 spots for directional ceiling and wall lighting, and low-voltage fittings such as G5.3 (MR16) and G4. Additionally, there are compact versions such as G9, often used in designer fixtures, and R7S, which are primarily found in powerful linear lamps and construction or outdoor lighting.
Which fitting you need depends on the fixture, the desired light output, and the application of the bulb. Not sure which fitting matches your bulb or fixture? In this blog, we clearly explain what it is, what you use it for, and what to look out for.This is how you easily choose the right light source and prevent wrong purchases.
E27 – Large Fitting
The E27 fitting, also known as the Edison, is the most widely used bulb worldwide. The letter E stands for Edison and the number 27 refers to the diameter in millimeters. In the Netherlands, this is also often called the large fitting.
The E27 works with a screw mechanism: the bulb is simply screwed into the fitting and secured. This makes replacing a bulb quick and user-friendly. E27 fittings are compatible with various light sources, such as incandescent bulbs, halogen lamps, energy-saving lamps, and LED lamps.Nowadays, the E27 is mainly used in LED lighting because of its energy efficiency and long lifespan.
This fitting is suitable for 220–240V mains power, allowing it to be connected directly without a transformer. E27 bulbs are commonly found in ceiling lights, pendant lights, table lamps, and wall lights.
E14 – Small Fitting
The E14 fitting is a smaller variant of the Edison screw base. The E stands for Edison and 14 refers to the diameter in millimeters. In the Netherlands, this fitting is also known as the small or mignon base.
E14 bulbs are more compact than E27 bulbs and are therefore widely used in chandeliers, wall lights, table lamps, and decorative fixtures. The socket is suitable for various light sources, such as LED bulbs, halogen bulbs, and energy-saving bulbs. Nowadays, the E14 is primarily used with LED lighting due to its low energy consumption.
Just like the E27 socket, the E14 operates on 220–240V mains power and the bulb can be easily screwed in and replaced.
GU10 base
G-caps are also referred to as 2-pin or bipin caps. The letter G refers to the use of glass lamps, while the number indicates the distance between the pins in millimeters.Bij een GU10 fitting is deze afstand 10 mm.
GU10 lampen werken met een twist-and-lock systeem: je steekt de lamp in de fitting en draait deze een kwartslag om hem te vergrendelen. Dit maakt de lamp stevig, veilig en eenvoudig te vervangen. GU10 spots worden veel gebruikt in plafondspots, wandlampen en inbouwspots.
De GU10 is geschikt voor 220–240V netstroom, waardoor geen transformator nodig is. GU10 lampen zijn verkrijgbaar als LED (meest gebruikt), maar ook als halogeen. Ze zijn beschikbaar in verschillende lichtkleuren en stralingshoeken, waardoor ze geschikt zijn voor zowel sfeer- als functionele verlichting.
Let bij vervanging altijd op dat het wattage en de spanning overeenkomen met het armatuur.
G5.3 base
The GU5.3 base, also known as MR16, is widely used for low-voltage lighting such as accent lighting, landscape lighting, and certain spotlight systems. The number 5.3 refers to the distance between the two pins in millimeters.
GU5.3 bulbs feature a push-in design: the bulb is pushed straight into the fitting and clicks into place, making replacement easy. They operate on low voltage (typically 12V), which means a transformer is almost always required to convert the mains voltage.
GU5.3 spots are available as LED and traditional halogen, and come in various light colors and beam angles.They are often used when directional and controlled light is desired.
Similar fittings that you sometimes encounter:
- GX5.3 – comparable, often used with small 12/24V lamps
- G6.35 – applied in work and landscape lighting
- G5 – used for specific fluorescent tubes
View our LED lamps!
G4 base
The G4 base, also known as GU4, is a compact base widely used for low-voltage lighting.You will often encounter these in cabinet lighting, cooker hoods, pendant lights, and small fixtures. The number 4 refers to the distance between the two pins in millimeters.
G4 lamps feature a push-in connection: the lamp is pushed straight into the socket and held securely by the tension of the pins. This makes replacing the light source simple. G4 lamps are available as LED and (traditional) halogen, and are chosen when a small, compact light source is needed.
Because G4 lamps operate on low voltage (usually 12V), a transformer is almost always required to convert the mains voltage.
Comparable sockets include:
GY4 – narrower pins
GZ4 – thicker pins
These variants are not always mutually interchangeable.
G9 fitting
The G9 fitting is mainly used in small and decorative fixtures, such as wall lights, ceiling lights, pendant lights, and chandeliers. The designation G9 refers to the 9-millimeter distance between the two contact points (loops) at the bottom of the bulb.
G9 bulbs feature a push-fit base: you simply press the bulb in without twisting. This makes replacement quick and easy. G9 light sources are compact and are nowadays mostly available as LED, due to their lower heat emission and lower energy consumption compared to halogen.
Because G9 LED bulbs are small and fragile, it is important to handle them with care during installation or replacement.
Similar bulbs you may occasionally encounter:
- G8 – 8 mm, primarily 120V halogen
- GY8.6 – 8.6 mm, mainly used in 120V lighting
- G9.5 – 9.5 mm, frequently used in theatrical lighting
R7s fitting
The R7s fitting is used for linear bulbs, also known as R7s stick lamps. These lamps operate directly on 220–240V mains power and are frequently used in floor lamps, floodlights, work lights, and older construction lights.
R7s bulbs are ideal for replacing older halogen lighting. An LED R7s bulb is more energy-efficient, lasts longer, and provides brighter and more stable light than the traditional halogen version. This allows you to easily make an existing fixture more sustainable without having to replace it.
The R7s features a linear design with two contact points at both ends. The bulb is placed into the socket and clicked into place with gentle pressure. Because the bulb is long and narrow, it is important to handle it carefully to prevent breakage.
When choosing an R7s bulb, the length is crucial. The most common sizes are:
- 78 mm
- 118 mm
Always check the length of your current bulb before purchasing a new R7s light source.
In short
Choosing the right fitting is essential for safe, well-functioning, and energy-efficient lighting. Whether you need an E27 or E14 for general lighting, a GU10 spotlight for targeted beams, or a low-voltage fitting such as G4, G5.3, G9, or R7s, having the right knowledge prevents wrong purchases and installation errors. By always paying attention to the type, voltage, and application, you can easily make the right choice.
Would you like to know more about lighting, light sources, and fixtures?
Read further in our other blogs below and discover practical tips and inspiration for the right lighting inside and around your home.
How do you dim LED lighting?
How should I connect LED fluorescent tubes?