Light Bulb Shapes

While incandescent light bulbs come in the greatest variety of shapes and sizes, all types of light bulbs are available in more than one “flavor.”

 

·        A-Line:  This traditional incandescent light bulb appears in most table lamps and in many light fixtures.

·        Reflector: Reflector light bulbs are wider than A-Line bulbs and usually serve as an indoor spotlight.

·        Globe: Traditional globe light bulbs are simply round bulbs, and specialized globe bulbs work particularly well on vanity light fixtures.

·        Candle: Candle light bulbs are decorative and are often used in chandeliers.

·        Parabolic Aluminized Reflectors (PAR): PAR bulbs usually appear in outdoor spotlights or flood lights.

·        Spiral: Spiral light bulbs are the compact florescent alternative to traditional incandescent bulb.

·        Tubular: Tubular light bulbs often appear in ceiling lighting as well as under cabinets and paintings.

·        Bullet: The bullet-shaped light bulb often serves as a decorative night light.

 

In addition to the above options, you can purchase light bulbs designed for specific locations, such as aquariums, ceiling fans, or car headlights. Flickering and flame light bulbs, on the other hand, offer a decorative flair, and post, circular, and U-shaped bulbs offer a non-traditional bulb shape.

 

The light bulb you should purchase depends entirely on your purpose for the light bulb. In many cases, however, the decision will already be made for you because the light socket will only fit a few light bulbs. Most of the above types are themselves divided into bulbs of small, medium, and large bases.