Norman Lamps, Inc.

Globe LED bulbs feature distinctive spherical shapes that range from small decorative globes to large statement bulbs, providing both functional illumination and aesthetic appeal in fixtures where the bulb itself is visible and contributes to the décor. Unlike standard A-Type bulbs with their pear-like shape, globe LEDs present a perfectly round profile that works beautifully in bathroom vanity fixtures, pendant lights, Hollywood-style mirror lighting, and decorative applications where the bulb shape itself matters. The globe shape provides naturally omnidirectional light distribution, casting illumination in all directions evenly. Globe LEDs are designated by a "G" followed by their diameter in millimeters—G25 (approximately 3.1 inches diameter), G30 (3.75 inches), G40 (5 inches), and so on—allowing you to select the appropriate size for your fixture and aesthetic vision.

The most common globe LED sizes serve distinct purposes. G25 bulbs (roughly 3 inches in diameter) are the standard size for bathroom vanity fixtures with exposed bulbs, providing enough visual presence to look intentional while fitting within typical fixture dimensions. G30 bulbs offer a slightly larger profile appropriate for pendant lights and larger vanity fixtures where you want more substantial visual impact. G40 and larger globes make bold decorative statements in large pendant fixtures, restaurant and hospitality settings, and anywhere the oversized bulb becomes a design element itself. For replacing traditional bulbs in existing fixtures, measure your current globe bulb diameter or verify the fixture specifications to ensure the LED replacement fits properly and provides the desired aesthetic.

Energy efficiency with globe LEDs is excellent—typical 5-7 watt globe LEDs replace 40-60 watt incandescent globe bulbs while producing equivalent light output. This 85-90% energy reduction is particularly valuable in bathroom vanity applications where fixtures often have 3-6 bulbs operating multiple hours daily. A vanity fixture with six 60-watt incandescent globes consumes 360 watts; replacing them with 7-watt LED globes reduces consumption to just 42 watts total—a remarkable transformation. For a bathroom used 3-4 hours daily, this saves approximately $60-80 annually in electricity costs. The 15,000-25,000 hour lifespan means 10-20+ years of typical use with no replacements, no ladder work, and no interruptions to purchase bulbs when one burns out during your morning routine.

Globe LEDs are available in clear and frosted versions, each creating different visual effects. Clear globe LEDs showcase the internal LED components or LED filaments, creating visual interest and sparkle. Clear globes work particularly well in fixtures with multiple bulbs where the visible light sources add to the aesthetic, and in vintage or industrial settings where the exposed technology becomes part of the design. Frosted or white globe LEDs diffuse the light evenly across the entire globe surface, creating a soft, uniform glow without visible LED components or hot spots. Frosted globes excel in bathroom vanities and close-proximity applications where direct view of bright LEDs might cause discomfort, and where the even illumination provides more flattering lighting for mirrors and personal grooming tasks.

Color temperature selection is particularly important with globe LEDs because they're often used in close-proximity applications where color rendering affects appearance and comfort. For bathroom vanities, 2700K-3000K warm white is most popular, providing flattering, natural-looking illumination that renders skin tones well without the harsh, overly white appearance of higher color temperatures. This warm light creates a comfortable, spa-like bathroom ambiance. In contemporary or commercial settings, 3500K-4000K neutral white might be preferred for crisper, more energizing illumination. The key is matching the color temperature to your décor style and the specific activities occurring in that space.

Dimming capability adds valuable flexibility, particularly in bathrooms and bedrooms where lighting needs vary throughout the day. Look for dimmable globe LEDs if you need dimming functionality, and verify compatibility with your existing dimmer or plan to install an LED-compatible dimmer. Quality dimmable globe LEDs provide smooth dimming from full brightness down to 10% or lower, allowing you to set bright task lighting for makeup application and grooming, moderate everyday lighting for showering and bathing, and low ambient lighting for nighttime navigation or relaxing baths. Some globe LEDs maintain consistent warm color temperature even when deeply dimmed, avoiding the cooler appearance some LEDs produce at low output levels.

Vintage-style globe LEDs with decorative exposed filaments offer the nostalgic appearance of Edison and early electric bulbs while providing full LED efficiency and longevity. These specialty globe LEDs feature amber-tinted glass and LED filaments arranged to replicate the carbon filament patterns of antique bulbs, creating warm, romantic ambiance with authentic vintage aesthetics. The LED filaments often use special phosphor coatings that produce ultra-warm 2200K-2400K color temperatures closely matching candlelight. These vintage globe LEDs work beautifully in pendant lights, exposed bulb fixtures, restaurants, hospitality settings, and home environments where the nostalgic aesthetic enhances the décor. Despite their old-fashioned appearance, they deliver modern LED benefits: 90% energy savings versus incandescent vintage bulbs and 15,000-25,000 hour lifespans.

Base types for globe LEDs are typically medium E26/E27 screw bases (standard household size), making them compatible with most fixtures. Smaller decorative globes might use candelabra E12 bases. Always verify your fixture's base type before ordering. The cool operation of LED globe bulbs is particularly advantageous in enclosed fixtures, bathroom vanity fixtures with limited airflow, and pendant fixtures with glass shades where heat buildup from incandescent bulbs caused premature failure and potential safety concerns. LED globes run cool to the touch even after hours of operation, eliminating these issues entirely.

Common Applications: Bathroom vanity lighting, pendant lights, decorative fixtures with visible bulbs, Hollywood-style mirror lighting, restaurant and hospitality lighting, bedroom lighting, anywhere the bulb appearance contributes to the overall aesthetic

Key Advantages: 85-90% energy savings versus incandescent globes, 15,000-25,000 hour lifespan, naturally omnidirectional light distribution, clear and frosted options, vintage styles available, cool operation safe for enclosed fixtures, dimmable options

Common Sizes: G25 (3.1" diameter - bathroom vanities), G30 (3.75" - larger vanities, pendants), G40 (5" - decorative statement bulbs). Choose based on fixture size and desired visual impact.