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Understanding Christmas Light Bulb Types and Sizes

This guide breaks down Christmas light types and sizes, to help you choose the right lights for your installation.

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Written by Emma Sheldon
Updated today

The "Conical" Bulbs: C9 & C7

C9 Bulb:

The classic “conical” Christmas light shape, loved for its nostalgic appearance.

  • Best used to decorate: Rooflines and large tree canopies.

  • Pairs with: E17 (Intermediate base) socket wire.

C7 Bulb:

The smaller sibling of the C9, offering similar style in a more compact size.

  • Best used to decorate: Windows, doors, and large trees.

  • Pairs with: E12 (Candelabra base) socket wire.

  • LED Type: SMD chip.


The Super-Bright "Globe" Lights: G30 & G20

G30 Bulb:

A round globe shape with a sparkling, magnifying lens that creates a bold and beautiful effect for any occasion.

  • Best used to decorate: Rooflines and large tree canopies. Warm White G30 bulbs also look great on a patio!

  • Pairs with: E17 socket wire.

  • LED Type: SMD chip.

G20 Bulb:

A smaller globe, ideal for more delicate or custom installations.

  • Best used to decorate: Windows, doors, marquee signs, and medium to large trees.

  • Pairs with: E12 socket wire.

  • LED Type: SMD chip.

  • Compatibility Note: G20 bulbs are designed for E12 (C7) sockets, not compatible with E17 (C9) sockets.


C9 vs G30: Which Should You Choose?

Both the C9 and G30 are commercial grade, weather-resistant, dimmable, and designed for long-term durability with stable LED color and brightness.

  • Pick C9 if you want that unmistakable traditional holiday look and a bulb that evokes classic, festive décor.

  • Pick G30 if you’re looking for something discreet, modern, and suitable for multiple occasions—even when the lights are off.

Advanced Optical Cone Technology

Our G30, G20, C9, and C7 bulbs feature cutting-edge optical cone technology that delivers exceptional brightness and performance. Each bulb contains a precision-engineered optical cone that acts as a magnifying lens, dispersing light across a remarkable 270-degree range for maximum visibility and impact. This innovative design makes our bulbs appear significantly brighter than traditional options while actually using less energy, ensuring both stunning visual results and cost-effective operation.

The Globe-shaped G30 and G20 bulbs benefit especially from this technology, providing even illumination that's visible from virtually every angle—perfect for creating impressive displays that look beautiful from any viewpoint. Our classic C9 and C7 cone-shaped bulbs utilize the same optical enhancement to produce that beloved bright, sparkling effect that makes your holiday displays truly stand out.

Beyond just brightness, this optical cone technology contributes to the premium appearance and versatility of our bulbs, making them ideal not only for Christmas displays but also for year-round events, weddings, patios, and special occasions. Experience the difference that professional-grade optical engineering makes in transforming your lighting vision into reality.


String Lights: C6 & 5mm

C6 String Lights:

Mini, classic conical bulb shape.

  • Best used to decorate: Shrubs, small to medium tree canopies and railings. Wrapping trunks, pillars and columns is not recommended.

  • Install with: Co-axial light string adapter, splitters, and extension cords.

  • LED Type: Diode.

5mm String Lights:

The most versatile and popular mini-lights with a bright, sparkling effect.

  • Best used to decorate: Shrubs, small/medium trees, intricate trunk/branch wrapping, pillars and columns.

  • Install with: Co-axial adapters, splitters, and extension cords.

  • LED Type: Diode.

5mm Mini Light Technology

Our 5mm mini lights represent precision-engineered lighting solutions designed for maximum versatility and professional-grade performance. These sealed, pre-assembled light strings feature 5mm LED bulbs that deliver exceptional brightness and sparkle.
The defining feature of our 5mm mini lights is their advanced 270-degree light dispersion technology created by the inverted cone-shaped within the 5mm bulb. This innovative lens produces an incandescent-like sparkle effect that creates beautiful, even illumination perfect for decorating trees, shrubs, and architectural features


Patio & Festoon Bulbs: Edison, G50 & Spiral

S14 Edison-Style Bulb:

A soft vintage look, with a double filament. Available in warm white.

  • Best used to decorate: Patios, balconies, backyards, weddings, and hanging pendant lights.

  • Install with: E26 suspensor strings or pendant sockets.

  • LED Type: Series filament.

G50 Bulb:

Large globe, vintage effects for indoor/outdoor use.

  • Best used to decorate: Patios, balconies, marquees, and room accent lighting.

  • Install with: E17 socket wire.

  • LED Type: Series filament.

ST64 Spiral Bulb:

The largest option, available as 120V plug-in or 5V battery operated.

  • Best used to decorate: Patios, marquees, events, and room lighting.

  • Install with: E26 pendant socket or adapter for battery operation.

  • LED Type: Series filament.


Still unsure which bulb is right for you? Consider your project size, location, and the visual mood you want. For tough decisions, try a sample pack or reach out to us for advice.

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