A new lamp seems like a simple purchase until the fitting does not fit, the light is too bright or a dimmer starts to flicker. If you want to buy LED lamps, it is therefore best to look beyond wattage or a low price. The right choice depends on the fitting, light output, colour temperature, dimensions and whether the lamp will be used indoors or outdoors.
With traditional incandescent bulbs, wattage gave a reasonable indication of the amount of light produced. With LED lighting, wattage mainly indicates energy consumption. For brightness, look at lumens.
A few examples:
A lamp with a higher wattage is therefore not automatically the right choice. More light is often practical for a reading lamp or workspace, while a lower light output may be sufficient for an ambient lamp.
Not all LED lamps work with a dimmer. Many standard models in the range are designed to be operated with a regular wall switch and are not dimmable. Do not use a non-dimmable lamp with a conventional dimmer. This can cause flickering or irregular operation.
Would you like to control your lighting via an app, remote control or voice assistant? In that case, dimmable LED lamps or smart LED lighting are a more logical choice. Philips Hue GU10 spotlights support control via the Hue app, Bluetooth and compatible smart-home platforms. According to the product information, a Hue Bridge is available separately.
A lamp with IP20 is designed for dry indoor areas. For a garden, balcony or path, you need a fitting with a suitable IP rating. The Philips Splay outdoor light has an integrated LED light source and IP44. This means protection against dust particles and splashing water, but not automatically against immersion or every type of heavy rain.
Also check that the fitting, voltage and maximum dimensions are compatible with your existing light fitting.
The lamp fitting must exactly match the lamp holder:
A lamp with the wrong fitting will not fit safely. So check the old lamp or the fitting’s instruction manual first.
Colour temperature is measured in kelvin (K):
A decorative filament lamp, such as the Atmosphera LED Bulb G125 Filament, uses amber-coloured glass and a striking filament design. This type is mainly intended to be a visible part of your interior. For a small lamp with an E14 fitting, the Atmosphera Standard LED Bulb E14 is a compact option with 175 lumens and 2,200 K.
Look at the combination of lumens per watt, lifespan and energy label. According to Philips’ own product information, various models use around 80% less energy than comparable traditional lamps. Treat this as a brand product specification and also compare the actual wattage and light output.
Many Philips models in this overview have a stated lifespan of 15,000 hours. The Philips Splay outdoor light states 50,000 hours for its integrated light source. A stated lifespan is not a guarantee of exactly that operating time; ventilation, switching frequency and usage conditions can affect performance.
Why it suits this profile: A six-pack is practical when several E27 fittings need replacing at the same time. The lamps provide warm white light at 2700 K for general indoor lighting.
The product specification lists the fitting, lumens, wattage and colour temperature. It also clearly states that the lamp is not dimmable.
8 W per light point, 806 lumens, E27 fitting, 2700 K and a stated lifespan of 15,000 hours.
Why it suits this profile: For anyone who wants to set scenes, colours and remote control. The GU10 spotlights work via Bluetooth and can be controlled with the Hue app and compatible voice assistants.
Dimmability and control are included in the product specification. This means you do not have to pair a regular dimmer with a lamp that is not designed for it.
GU10 fitting, white and coloured light, app control and support for multiple smart-home platforms.
Why it suits this profile: This outdoor light is designed for paths, borders, patios or balconies where a permanent lighting solution is preferred. The integrated LED provides warm white light at 2700 K.
The IP44 rating and stated outdoor use make it clear that this is not a standard IP20 indoor lamp.
IP44, aluminium and plastic construction, 4.3 W consumption, integrated LED and a stated lifespan of 50,000 hours.
We have compiled a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
That depends on the room and how you use it. A lower light output may be sufficient for ambient lighting. For a workspace, kitchen or hobby room, more lumens are generally more practical. Always look at lumens per light point rather than wattage alone.
The stated lifespan varies by product. In this range, 15,000 hours is often specified; the Philips Splay outdoor light states 50,000 hours for its integrated light source. The actual operating life can depend on heat, ventilation and how often the lamp is switched on and off.
LED lamps generally use fewer watts for a comparable light output than traditional lamps. According to Philips’ own research and product information, various models use around 80% less energy than comparable traditional lamps. Calculate your savings using the actual wattage, number of hours of use and your current electricity tariff.