100 or 1000 Lumens? The art of choosing the perfect light bulb

When it comes to levels of brightness, it’s all about balance: cooking or reading can prove difficult if your surroundings are too dark; on the other hand, if the lighting is too bright it’s hard to wind down and enjoy your evening. Therefore, it’s essential to choose the ideal light bulbs with the right number of lumens.

But what exactly are lumens? How many lumens does one need per square meter? Is there a direct relationship between watts and lumens? To find out, keep reading and discover how to obtain optimal solutions involving lighting levels for different rooms such as your bedroom or kitchen.

Snake

Photo @archifact_srl

What exactly is a lumen?

A Lumen (lm) measures the total amount of visible light emitted by a bulb or another light source. The higher the number of lumens, the brighter the light bulb will be.

What about watts? Watts (w) measure electric power by indicating the amount of electricity that a device consumes or absorbs.

Is there a direct relationship between watts and lumens?

In the past watts were used to measure a light bulb’s power since the connection between the light output and energy consumption was relatively steady. However, as LED technologies progressed, this straightforward relationship wasn’t as reliable.

Compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, LED light bulbs tend to use up less energy while still producing the same light levels, if not more. So talking about a fixed linkage between the watts and lumens is no longer realistic. The packaging of all bulbs specifies the level of emitted lumens, to help each client compare different bulbs and achieve their desired lighting.

If you’re more familiar with previous watts measurements, here are some conversions from lumens to watts for new LED light bulbs commonly found on the current market:

  • ● A 400-600 lumen LED light bulb with a power consumption of 4-5 watts equals to a 40 watts incandescent light bulb.
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    Elegant, sophisticated design and white opalescent glass: a stunning light bulb to embellish any room, lights on or off. The G95 LED Globe light bulb is versatile and functional, the perfect choice for those looking for aesthetic lighting solutions without having to compromise on energy efficiency.What makes the M04 light bulb so special?With a 4W...
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    If you’re looking for vintage inspired, warm lighting without having to compromise on energy efficiency, we strongly recommend the E03 light bulb. This clear LED light bulb brings together the charming allure of classic design and the advantages of modern technology: a perfect result with a great price/quality ratio.What are the main characteristics of...
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    Harmony and geometrical shapes: H07 Ellipse 170, a Bebulbs branded light bulb with high luminous flux. When it comes to LED light bulbs, Bebulbs always pushes the boundaries of design, for great quality and charm.What makes it so special? The double filament, which merges the allure of the curved filaments to the power of the straight ones. For a...
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    Simple and elegant: these linear LED light bulbs offer great lighting which reaches every corner of the room.Light bulb features:This linear S14d clear LED light bulb is 30 cm long and comes with a central fitting. The perfect illumination solution for any room, especially when paired with the esse14 lamp holder. This tubular bulb is dimmable, which...

  • ● An 800-1000 lumen LED light bulb with a power consumption 6-8 watts equals to a 60 watts incandescent light bulb.
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    Enhance the charm of your spaces with the T04 bulb, the solution for those seeking a highly distinctive product with warm white light. Thanks to the blend of classic elegance and cutting-edge technology, this LED filament bulb is an excellent quality product at an affordable price.What are the key features of the T04 bulb?With a power of 7 watts, the...
  • 42,70 € Out of stock
    Harmony and geometrical shapes: H04 Ellipse 170, a Bebulbs branded light bulb with high luminous flux. When it comes to LED light bulbs, Bebulbs always pushes the boundaries of design, for great quality and charm.What makes it so special? The double filament, which merges the allure of the curved filaments to the power of the straight ones. The result?...
  • Alto flusso luminoso
    77,90 € Available
    The Delo bulb, in the XL version, is an extremely elegant and precious bulb. The large size, the porcelain finish and the high visual comfort make this bulb a perfect decor accessory to illuminate all rooms, from domestic to commercial environments.The precious result of its surface is obtained thanks to a double satin treatment that involves both...

  • ● A 1000-2000 lumen LED light bulb with a power consumption 10-12 watts equals to a 100 watts incandescent light bulb.
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    H02 The Ellipse 220 will make lighting the star in any room. A Bebulbs branded light bulb with high luminous flux. When it comes to LED light bulbs, Bebulbs always pushes the boundaries of design, for great quality and charm.What makes it so special? The double filament, which merges the allure of the curved filaments to the power of the straight ones....
  • Alto flusso luminoso
    65,92 € 82,40 € -20% Out of stock
    Reduced price!
    Our LED Mammamia XL lamp features an elongated oval shape, oversized dimensions and refined craftsmanship. Perfect for indoor illumination that matches elegant and sophisticated surroundings; because of its sizeable proportions, this light bulb with a high luminous flux (i.e. emitting a large amount of light) is ideal as focal point to embellish single...
  • Alto flusso luminoso
    75,00 € Available
    The Candy bulb is featured by an elongated shape, rounded corners and a special smooth white surface with a porcelain effect: the precious result of a double satin treatment of both the outside and inside surfaces.Like all porcelain-effect bulbs in our range, it will complement your lamps by adding a refined design touch. The opaque surface ensures a...

Basically, using present technology 1-2 watts create 100 LED lumens.

However, the conversion between lumens and watts in LED light bulbs is extremely variable and depends not only on the energy class of the bulbs but also on the tint of the glass. For example, the Cone140 light bulb is powered by 10W, but with clear glass it emits 1100 lumens, whilst in the smoky glass version brightness decreases to only 470 lumens. 

  • 35,40 € Out of stock
    H03 Cone 140 is an innovative light bulb with conical shape that merges the beauty of geometrical shapes with a double filament: curved for a fun, remarkable grace and straight for better light power.The result is a Bebulbs branded unique product with high luminous flux. When it comes to LED light bulbs, Bebulbs always pushes the boundaries of design,...
  • 42,10 € In Stock
    H09 Cone 140 is an innovative light bulb with conical shape that merges the beauty of geometrical shapes with a double filament: curved for a fun, remarkable grace and straight for better light power compared to usual smoky light bulbs.The result is a Bebulbs branded unique product with high luminous flux. When it comes to LED light bulbs, Bebulbs...

These numbers clearly prove the quality of LED lighting in terms of both brightness and energy consumption, saving up to 90% more than traditional incandescent bulbs while boasting an average lifespan up to 15 times longer.

Spider

Photo @cockyhome

  • 5,50 € Available
    A metal 2- hole ceiling rose kit is used to assemble a wall or ceiling lamp with a double light source. Metal is a durable material that can be placed in many environments, whatever their style: no matter if minimal, Scandinavian, industrial or classic, you'll find the metallic finish that suits your needs!This cylindrical metal 2- hole ceiling rose...
  • 2,80 € Available
    The original Creative-Cables. Some call them colourful textile cables, others fabric covered cables, whilst others still simply call them coloured cables. But really, for over 10 years their real name has been Creative-Cables.Ideal for lighting projects with a modern and elegant look, our Rayon cables offer colours bright and shiny. 100% Made in Italy....
  • 4,00 € Available
    A cylindrical metal E27 lamp holder kit is used to assemble a wall, table or ceiling lamp. Metal is a durable material that can be placed in many environments, whatever their style: no matter if minimal, nordic, industrial or classic, you'll find the metallic finish that suits your needs!This cylindrical metal E27 lamp holder kit is definitely right for...
  • Alto flusso luminoso
    43,20 € 54,00 € -20% Available
    Reduced price!
    XXL size, elongated shape and milk-coloured finish for this light bulb with E27 fitting. The milky surface of this bulb makes it perfect for all those who need a lot of light: with its 1520 Lumen it is able to furnish and illuminate every room by itself. Use it to create highly luminous suspensions perfect for large and very large spaces, or have fun...

How many lumens per square meter?

Don’t leave anything to chance when designing your new illumination system by calculating the right amount of light per m² based on the purpose and features of the room.

For instance, an office or kitchen may need brighter lighting and a higher number of lumens to boost productivity whilst minimizing eye strain and fatigue; a bedroom on the other hand will need softer lighting. It's also important to consider that dark walls tend to absorb more light, requiring a higher number of lumens.

So as a general guideline we suggest an average of 200-400 lumens per m².

Kitchen or bedroom lighting: is there really a difference?

The way you use and navigate each room makes a huge difference in the choice of lumen levels. Numbers may vary based on the room’s dimensions, colours and décor.

In kitchens, light quality and high colour rendering is crucial especially when using knives or plating a dish. We recommend bright and intense lighting of approximately 1000-3000 lumens, with ulterior and direction and focus on the worktop and dining area.

Pendant lamp with Diamond cage lampshade

Photo @duelinee_architettura

  • 5,40 € Product available with different options
    Product available with different options
    A metal 1- hole ceiling rose kit is used to assemble a wall or ceiling lamp with a single light source. Metal is a durable material that can be placed in many environments, whatever their style: no matter if minimal, Scandinavian, industrial or classic, you'll find the metallic finish that suits your needs! This cylindrical metal ceiling rose kit is...
  • 2,80 € Available
    The original Creative-Cables. Some call them colourful textile cables, others fabric covered cables, whilst others still simply call them coloured cables. But really, for over 10 years their real name has been Creative-Cables.Our cotton cables enhance the pastel colours and the warm tones. The cotton makes it possible to achieve a more natural look and...
  • 6,20 € Available
    A cylindrical metal E27 lamp holder kit with 7 cm cable clamp is used to assemble a wall, table or ceiling lamp. Metal is a durable material that can be placed in many environments, whatever their style: no matter if minimal, nordic, industrial or classic, you'll find the metallic finish that suits your needs! The protagonist of this lamp holder is a 7 cm...
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    One of our most versatile lampshades: with Diamond you can have fun creating amazing pendant lamps, table lamps or wall lamps with strong character and unique design. The contemporary style and essential lines of this naked lampshade, makes it perfect to adapt to multiple environments and interior design stylesCreate a lighting solution that is perfect...

The living room: whether you’re watching TV, having friends over, playing cards or reading, a versatile room calls for versatile lighting. Usually for this kind of setting we recommend 600-800 lumens, up to 3000 if the room is spacious. The best option is a combination of different light sources based on a specific variety of needs: a ceiling lamp at the heart of the room complemented by wall or table lamps for more assorted lighting. Always remember: even a simple dimmer can make a world of difference.

Bedrooms require varying quantities of lumens based on size, furniture (like the presence or absence of a wardrobe) and the overall age bracket of the room (e.g., a children's room). On average a light ranging from 1000 to 2000 lumens can be perfectly adapted to most needs. For bedside tables you will need a lamp with soft, low-glare lighting, so choose a bulb with at least 150 lumens.

From skincare routines to quick shaves, soothing bubble baths to invigorating showers… the first steps to self-care are usually carried out in the bathroom. Taking into consideration the wide range of routines, bathroom lighting should be task-oriented: install an 800 lumens lamp above your mirror to avoid casting shadows on your face; or add warm, suffused lighting to help you wind down after a long day.

Applique

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    With the E27 lamp holder patented by Creative-Cables, lighting up your home has never been easier. Its curved design, reduced dimensions and modern yet simple lines will allow you to create striking lighting compositions even with limited space, no rose needed. The E27 lamp holder can also be directly mounted to any wall or ceiling. On top of that,...
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    Reduced price!
    The 7W Globe G125 LED light bulb with a silver half sphere combines the energy saving technology of LED with the warm pleasantness of the vintage aesthetic. The light bulb is made out of transparent glass, with its lower end covered in a silver colouring for a unique lighting effect. The light bulb has a luminosity of 750 lumens, equal to that of a...

Entrance and hallways should always have good visibility, and 500-800 lumens should suffice.

What about lux levels?

Lux is a unit of measurement implemented to quantify the perceived luminosity of an object or surface. In other words the luminous flux evenly distributed over an area of one m². One lux represents the quantity of uniform light emitted by a candle lit at a meter’s distance. Essentially, the higher the lux level, the higher the perceived intensity of the light source.

Pendant lamp

Photo @Axpo-Genova

In conclusion,  lumen levels appear differently for everyone based on how we interact with our surroundings. To achieve the perfect lighting the room dimensions, furniture and colour and the furniture must be taken into consideration.

The lumens specified on the light bulb packaging will indicate the product’s luminosity. Take time to evaluate your needs and choose the right bulbs for every setting. Choosing the correct lighting can make a difference in combining functionality and comfort in your home.

Posted on 2024-01-02

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