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What do the e26 and e12 specifications mean for IKEA light bulbs?

These specifications refer to the base of the light bulb that screws into the fixture. It has nothing to do with the intensity of the light or its wattage.

The most common type of light bulb here in the United States has what is referred to as a “Medium” base or “Standard” base. The word “base” is referring to the threaded part of the light bulb that screws into the socket. A Medium or Standard base light bulb is also referred to as an e26 base light bulb.

Around 90% of light bulbs sold here in the U.S. come with a “Medium” e26 base.

The second most common type of light bulb base that you’ll find here in the United States (and North America) is the “Candelabra” base. The Candelabra base is also called an e12 base. You usually find that light bulbs with a Candelabra or e12 base are found in chandeliers, small nightlights, and small decorative bulbs. This type of light bulb base is less than half the size of a Medium/e26 light bulb base.

Specifications for IKEA bulbs include e12, e26, g4, gu10, gx53, and e17. 

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