What is the Small Base Light Bulb Called?

Gregory Jul 01, 2026

The term you're looking for is "candelabra base light bulb".

Home Tips: These are the light bulbs I use for a warm, cozy home • before & after lighting, home DIY
Home Tips: These are the light bulbs I use for a warm, cozy home • before & after lighting, home DIY

This type of light bulb has a medium to large base, which is wider than the standard Edison screw base, and is often used in chandeliers, sconces, and other decorative fixtures.

Light Bulb Base Sizes: Everything You Need To Know
Light Bulb Base Sizes: Everything You Need To Know

Understanding Candelabra Base Light Bulbs

Candelabra base light bulbs are designed to fit into fixtures that have a base size of E12 or C7. The E12 base is more common and is often referred to as a "candelabra base", while the C7 base is less common and is sometimes called a "candelabra base with a small Edison screw".

someone is holding a light bulb with two pencils in it and the caption says, never know what light bulb to buy?
someone is holding a light bulb with two pencils in it and the caption says, never know what light bulb to buy?

These light bulbs are typically used in decorative fixtures because they can accommodate a variety of shapes and sizes, including globe, flame tip, and candle flame bulbs.

E12 Base Light Bulbs

What is an E12 Bulb?
What is an E12 Bulb?

E12 base light bulbs are the most common type of candelabra base bulb. They have a base diameter of about 1.2 inches and are often used in chandeliers, sconces, and pendant lights.

Some popular E12 base light bulbs include:

  • Incandescent: These are the traditional light bulbs that have been around for decades. They provide a warm, soft light and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes.
  • LED: LED candelabra base bulbs are more energy-efficient than incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer. They are available in a range of colors and brightness levels.
  • Halogen: Halogen candelabra base bulbs are similar to incandescent bulbs but use a halogen gas to improve energy efficiency and light output. They provide a bright, white light.
the different types of lamps that are on display in this info sheet, which shows what they
the different types of lamps that are on display in this info sheet, which shows what they

C7 Base Light Bulbs

C7 base light bulbs are less common than E12 base bulbs but are still used in some decorative fixtures. They have a base diameter of about 0.7 inches and are often used in small chandeliers and sconces.

C7 base light bulbs are typically incandescent or LED and are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are often used in vintage or antique fixtures because they have a smaller base that can fit into older sockets.

Bulbrite LED Filament 25 -Watt EQ T9 Soft white Dimmable LED Decorative Light Bulb 2 -Pack | 862700
Bulbrite LED Filament 25 -Watt EQ T9 Soft white Dimmable LED Decorative Light Bulb 2 -Pack | 862700

Choosing the Right Candelabra Base Light Bulb

When choosing a candelabra base light bulb, it's important to consider the type of fixture you're using and the desired light output.

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all types of light bulb base in different shapes and sizes, with the names below
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a poster with different types of light bulbs in the same color and font, which one is
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the different types of light bulbs are shown in this image, and each bulb has its own size
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the different types of light bulbs are shown in this diagram, which shows how they work
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light bulb size, what the numbers mean
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LED Light Bulb Buyer's Guide | Lightbulbs Direct Help & Advice
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the best light bulbs for every room in your home or apartment are you looking for one?
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the different types of light bulbs are shown in this page, and there is also an image
the different types of light bulbs are shown in this page, and there is also an image
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several different types of light bulbs on a wall with text describing the various types of lightbulb screws
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Light Bulb Buying Guide
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Bulb Reference Guide
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an image of a light bulb labeled in different parts of the glass and metal case

For example, if you're using a chandelier with multiple bulbs, you may want to use LED bulbs to save energy. If you're using a sconce in a hallway, you may want to use a bulb with a higher lumen count to provide more light.

Light Output

Light output is measured in lumens, which is a measure of the amount of light emitted by a source in all directions. The higher the lumen count, the brighter the light bulb.

Candelabra base light bulbs are typically available in lumen counts ranging from 40 to 800 lumens. The lumen count you need will depend on the size of the room and the desired light level.

Color Temperature

Color temperature is measured in Kelvin and is a measure of the color of the light emitted by a source. The lower the Kelvin number, the warmer the light. The higher the Kelvin number, the cooler the light.

Candelabra base light bulbs are typically available in color temperatures ranging from 2700K (warm white) to 6500K (daylight). The color temperature you choose will depend on the desired ambiance and the time of day you'll be using the light.

In many homes, candelabra base light bulbs are used to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Whether you're using them in a chandelier, a sconce, or a pendant light, choosing the right bulb can help you create the perfect lighting for your space.