Light bulbs are produced in a variety of different sizes and are usually categorized by their bases. The base is the bottom of the light bulb that screws into a light socket. The letter ‘E’ before the number dictates that it’s an Edison-style screw base. At 11mm in diameter, E11 light bulbs are also called “mini candelabra, also known as mini-cans.” However, an E11 bulb only refers to a specific base type, and there’s a variety of different bulb types you can choose from.
What Is the Edison Screw Base?
The legendary inventor Thomas Edison created the Edison screw base. It’s the familiar screw-like socket you see on the bottom of most light bulbs in the world. After being patented in 1909, the Edison screw base has established itself as the international standard of lighting sockets. Over 80% of light bulbs in the world use the Edison screw base because of the uniformity it allows. You can find these bases ranging in sizes from E5 to E40. The number after the ‘E’ denotes the diameter of the screw size in millimeters. Each screw size is then applied to different types and sizes of light bulbs.
The four most common sizes of screw-in sockets are:
- Candelabra: E11 & E12
- Intermediate: E17
- Medium: E26
- Mogul: E39
Using the standard Edison base sizes makes it easy to find the exact light bulb you need. As long as your light fixture has an E11 sized socket, an E11 bulb should fit.
Types of E11 Light Bulbs
Since E11 only describes the base of the light bulb, the bulb itself can vary. It can be difficult picking the right bulb for your fixture, as bulbs come in many different sizes, shapes, and types. You’ll be able to find E11 base bulbs with LED, and incandescent/halogen lighting technology to suit any preference. Several E11 bulbs come with clear glass, and others have frosted glass.
LED Light Bulbs
EmeryAllen specializes in LED light bulbs. LEDs are the most efficient light bulb in the market in terms of energy usage. They also have the longest life span. In fact, LED bulbs use up to 90% less energy than incandescent light bulbs of equal brightness. In general, LED light bulbs are more cost-effective, last longer, and use much less energy.
Incandescent Light Bulbs
Incandescent light bulbs are the oldest bulb type, dating back to Thomas Edison’s experiments in 1879. Light is generated by electricity passing through a coiled tungsten filament, and the resistance causes it to glow. While generally reliable, these bulbs are also inefficient, converting less than 5% of the energy into visible light, the rest is emitted as heat. Incandescent bulbs can get very hot, which may not be desirable depending on the application. light bulbs typically have a lifespan of 1,000 hours, whereas LEDs last up to 25,000 hours, running on a fraction of the energy. For this reason, incandescent light bulbs generally are not recommended for use anymore.
CFL Light Bulbs
CFL stands for “compact fluorescent lights.” Electricity is passed through argon gas (with some mercury vapor) and generates invisible UV light which excites a phosphor coating on the inside of the glass tubes generating visible light. These bulbs are more efficient than incandescent light bulbs, however, they have a slower start-up time, and are not as efficient as LEDs. The mercury within the CFL bulbs also needs to stay out of landfills in the event of a broken bulb or when it becomes unreliable at the end of its life. Proper disposal can be more challenging depending on your local jurisdiction. LED bulbs do not have any restrictions on disposal for environmental reasons.
Where are E11 Light Bulbs Used?
Initially developed for halogen lamps for an inverted or horizontal position (pendants, bath lights, undercabinet lights), the technology that generates light has undergone change over the last hundred years, yet the base type has remained relatively unchanged. Since E11 bulbs are relatively small, they are mainly used in decorative fixtures. With a narrower screw base, E11 bulbs can be combined to create impressive and inviting lighting schemes. They are often found in ceiling fans, kitchen appliances, wall sconces, outdoor fixtures, pendants, photography devices, and select machinery.
Light Strength
E11 light bulbs typically range from 2700k to 4000k in terms of color temperature.
- 2700K — Warm color temperature for homes
- 3000K — Soft color temperature for homes
- 3500K — Neutral color temperature for offices
- 4000K — Cool color temperature for classrooms
A warm color temperature has more orange undertones, while cool temperatures have bluish undertones. Warm colors are typically used in homes as the lightning effect is more inviting and relaxing. Read more about color temperature here. In terms of brightness, E11 light bulbs range from 450 lumens to 950 lumens.
Features
Our E11 light bulbs are fully dimmable, turn on instantly, and last longer than conventional lighting.
Efficiency Paired with Beautiful Lighting
If you’re looking to replace a halogen mini candelabra bulb, you’re in the right place. EmeryAllen has a best-in-class selection of E11 light bulbs perfect for ceiling fans, outdoor fixtures, and sconces. Whether you need 4.5 watts or 9.5 watts, you’ll find the perfect mini candelabra for your lighting fixture. Our 120v E11 bulbs come with a lifetime warranty and up to 25,000 hours of lighting, meaning you’ll be set for years to come. We’d love to help you out if you have any further questions. Contact us today to learn more about our exciting array of lighting options.
