What bulb base does a chandelier take?
Most chandeliers in North America use E12 candelabra screw bases. European chandeliers use E14. The two are not interchangeable.
E12 vs E14 — the key distinction
E12 (candelabra): Used in US and Canadian chandeliers. Thread diameter is 12 mm. Accepts candelabra, flame-tip, and bent-tip bulbs in the same shape range. Very common at US hardware stores.
E14 (small Edison screw, SES): Used in European chandeliers. Thread diameter is 14 mm. These bulbs are sold by European and upscale US lighting brands. If buying locally, confirm the size — many stores carry both.
How to confirm your socket size
- Turn off the power and let the bulbs cool.
- Unscrew one bulb and measure the base diameter with a ruler or calipers.
- 12 mm thread = E12. 14 mm thread = E14.
- Alternatively, look for a molded number inside the socket cup.
Common chandelier bulb shapes
Both E12 and E14 chandeliers most often use:
- Flame tip — elongated pointed shape, decorative and highly visible in open-arm designs
- Bent tip — slight curve for a more traditional candle look
- Torpedo — straight-sided cylindrical shape
- BA9 or B10 — round "blunt tip" small globe, used in drum-shade chandelier designs
LED versions of all these shapes are available and draw 4–6 W vs the 40–60 W of older incandescent equivalents.
Wattage and dimming
Check the socket label for the maximum wattage. Many chandeliers are rated 40 W or 60 W per socket. When using LED bulbs, choose dimmable models if your chandelier is on a dimmer switch — not all LED candelabra bulbs are dimmable.