Choose the Brightness (Lumens)
Step 4 · Pick the right output for your space
Lumens tell you how bright a bulb is. LEDs use far fewer watts, so ignore watts except when comparing with old bulbs.
1. Start with size and purpose. Bigger rooms and task-heavy areas need more lumens.
2. Use multiple bulbs. Brightness adds up. A fixture with 3 bulbs at 800 lumens each delivers 2400 lumens total.
3. Skip wattage for LEDs. Watts only tell you power consumption — not brightness.
Lumens by use
Soft, general-purpose brightness.
- Small bedrooms
- Hallways
- Accent lamps
- Reading lamps
40–60W old incandescent
Bright, versatile everyday lighting.
- Most bedrooms
- Living rooms
- Dining rooms
60–75W old incandescent
Strong output suitable for larger rooms.
- Kitchens
- Home offices
- Bathrooms
75–100W old incandescent
High-output lighting for demanding areas.
- Garages
- Basements
- Workshops
- Large open spaces
100–150W old incandescent
Quick lumens reference
500–800 lm
800–1100 lm
1600+ lm
Estimate bulbs for your room
Enter the room size and how bright you want it to feel. We’ll estimate the total lumens needed and how many bulbs you’d need if you used only 40W, 60W, 75W, or 100W equivalents.
Enter length and width to see an estimate. You can split these bulbs across multiple fixtures in the room.
These numbers are guidelines. High ceilings, dark walls, and task-heavy rooms may need more light.