E26 bulb base reference
E26 is the standard medium Edison screw base used in North America, measuring 26mm in base diameter.
Exact specs
| Designation | E26 (Medium / Standard) |
|---|---|
| Base diameter | 26 mm |
| Thread pitch | Edison screw (E-series) |
| Primary region | North America (120V systems) |
| Typical wattage range | 10W–150W (incandescent equivalent) |
What fixtures commonly use it
Standard table lamps, overhead light fixtures, floor lamps, and most common household sockets in North America use E26.
What it's interchangeable with
E26 and E27 have nearly identical thread dimensions (1mm diameter difference). An E27 bulb will physically fit and function in an E26 socket with rare exceptions. Always confirm fixture voltage rating.
What it's NOT interchangeable with
E26 is not interchangeable with E12 (candelabra) or E14 (small European screw) due to diameter differences. GU10 and pin bases are entirely different systems.
Common mistakes
- Buying E27 bulbs for a US E26 fixture — usually works electrically but confirm voltage.
- Confusing E26 with E12 candelabra — E12 is noticeably smaller.
- Over-wattaging a fixture — always check the fixture's max watt label.