How E26 and E12 Bulb Bases Compare
E26 and E12 are both screw-in bases, but they fit very different fixtures. The base is the connector at the bottom of the bulb.
Visual base/socket reference
E26
Medium screw
Most lamps, pendants, domes, and household fixtures
E12
Candelabra
Chandeliers, sconces, and decorative candle bulbs
E26: standard medium base
- Most table lamps, floor lamps, ceiling domes, and pendants use E26.
- Common shapes include A19, A15, BR30, BR40, G25, and PAR38.
- If a fixture takes a normal household screw-in bulb, start with E26.
E12: smaller candelabra base
- Chandeliers, sconces, decorative fans, and candle-style fixtures often use E12.
- Common shapes include B10 and B11 candle bulbs.
- If the bulb is narrow and decorative, check for E12 before buying.
Fast decision
Use E26 for standard household fixtures and E12 for smaller decorative fixtures. If you are unsure, remove one existing bulb and read the base marking or compare the socket size before purchasing replacements. See the complete light bulb base sizes chart for more socket types, then use the Light Bulb Finder to build your shopping specification.