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When you need to change a bulb or choose a new chandelier, the first question is: what base does it have? The codes E27, E14, G9 and GU10 describe the shape and size of the base, and a bulb with the wrong base simply will not fit. Here is how to recognise them and pick the right bulb.
Quick answer: E27 and E14 are screw bases (Ø 27 mm, the most common, and the smaller Ø 14 mm); G9 and GU10 are two-pin bases, G9 with pins 9 mm apart for small capsule lamps and GU10 with a twist-lock for 230 V spotlights. To replace a bulb, just pick the same base and respect the fixture's maximum wattage. Guide updated October 2026 by the LuceArt team.
What are the main light bulb bases?
| Base | How to recognise it | Where it is usually used |
|---|---|---|
| E27 | Ø 27 mm screw thread, 230 V | Chandeliers, ceiling lights, table and floor lamps |
| E14 | Ø 14 mm screw thread, 230 V | Candle-style chandeliers, wall lights, table lamps |
| G9 | Two pins 9 mm apart, 230 V | Small chandeliers, wall lights, accent lights |
| GU10 | Two twist-lock pins (10 mm apart), 230 V | Recessed and track spotlights |
What do the codes E27, E14, G9 and GU10 mean?
The letter E (Edison) means a screw base and the number is the thread diameter in millimetres. The letter G means a pin base and the number is the distance between the pins in millimetres; in the GU10 the U refers to the U-shaped fitting, which locks with a twist.
How do I know which base my chandelier needs?
There are three simple ways: read the code printed on the old bulb or on the lampholder, measure the thread diameter with a calliper or ruler (27 mm or 14 mm), or check the product page. Always switch the power off and let the bulb cool before removing it.
How many watts and lumens for each base?
| Base | Typical LED power | Typical light output |
|---|---|---|
| E27 | 8–15 W | 800–1,500 lumens |
| E14 | 4–6 W | 350–500 lumens |
| G9 | 3–5 W | 300–450 lumens |
| GU10 | 4–7 W | 350–600 lumens |
These are indicative values: with LEDs, think in lumens rather than watts. To see how many lumens each room needs, read how many lumens each room needs.
Can I replace a halogen or incandescent bulb with an LED?
Yes, if you choose the same base and the same voltage (230 V). An LED uses far less power, so it never exceeds the maximum wattage shown on the fixture. If you use a dimmer, choose a bulb marked dimmable; in an enclosed fixture choose an LED suitable for that use. For colour, read warm, cool or natural white and Kelvin explained.
Where do you find fixtures for each base?
The LuceArt catalogue has chandeliers, wall lights, table lamps and spotlights for every type of base, and each product page states the bulb type. If you are choosing a chandelier, also read chandelier height and size and, for replacing or installing the fixture, how to install a chandelier and connect the wires; for GU10 track spotlights read track lighting: how to choose it.
A few examples from the catalogue: the Arte Povera Limone 3-light chandelier and the Arte Povera Cestino 5-light chandelier use E14 bulbs (not included), while the Amura brown chandelier, 25 cm uses an E27 bulb up to 15 W.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between E27 and E14?
Both are screw bases, but E27 has a 27 mm thread (standard bulbs) and E14 a 14 mm thread (smaller candle or drop bulbs).
What is a G9 base?
A two-pin base with 9 mm between the pins, used for small 230 V capsule lamps in chandeliers and wall lights.
What is a GU10 base and how does it differ from GU5.3?
GU10 has two pins with a twist-lock and runs at 230 V; GU5.3 has closer pins and runs at low voltage (12 V), so it needs a transformer.
Can I put an E27 bulb in an E14 socket?
No: the sizes differ and it will not screw in. Adapters exist, but you must check the fixture's dimensions and maximum wattage.
How do I choose the wattage of an LED bulb?
Think in lumens: about 800 lumens corresponds to an old 60 W incandescent bulb. Choose lumens based on the room and do not exceed the fixture's maximum wattage.
Can LED bulbs be used with a dimmer?
Yes, but only if the bulb is marked dimmable and the dimmer is compatible with LEDs.
Not sure which base you need? Write or call us: the LuceArt team answers on WhatsApp and by phone at +39 331 1297436 and +39 0828 434177.
Cover photo: Lampadario Bolla 3 luci bianco E14 Ø 45 cm LuceArt Classic (SKU LA-BL114-3-BT).
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