What Is a Capsule Bulb?

What is a Capsule Bulb?

LED capsule bulbs are small and compact bi-pin lamps designed to be used in even the most compact of fixtures. They provide full, instant, and bright illumination. These compact bulbs are suitable for a variety of decorative and appliance fixtures, both domestic and industrial.

Originally the capsules were created with halogen technology, however the recent surge in LED technology has meant that the LED Capsule Bulbs are now more popular than their halogen equivalents. An LED Capsule Bulb has an expected life span of up to 25,000 hours!

They are Available in a range of colour temperatures, sizes, lumen outputs, dimmable or non-dimmable, and energy saving technologies.

There are two types of capsule bulbs:

Example of an LED capsule bulb in the switched on position giving off warm lightExample of an LED capsule bulb in the switched on position giving off warm light

'The main difference between the two capsule bulbs are their voltages.'

The G4

G4 Capsule Bulbs are a low voltage bulb with two pins set 4mm apart. Their delicate style makes them ideal for small, decorative fixtures, task and under cabinet lighting. They are also commonly used for specialist light fittings, projector lamps, dental lamps, fibre optic lamps, car, boat, and caravan lamps. Their small size and relatively high output means they make a great choice for when space is a premium.

MiniSun 1.5W G4 Capsule Bulb In Warm WhiteMiniSun 1.5W G4 Capsule Bulb In Warm White

2 pin compact lights are suitable for a variety of applications both domestic AND commercial.

The G9

G9 Bulbs are a capsule style bulb with two pins that are separated by a 9mm gap. The G9 is rated for 240V mains voltage light fittings. These small, bright, high intensity, 2 pin compact lights are suitable for a variety of applications both domestic AND commercial.  They are perfect for lighting up decorative fittings in living spaces, such as chandelier’s!

MiniSun branded ultra-energy saving LED G9 pin bulbs MiniSun branded ultra-energy saving LED G9 pin bulbs

The difference between a G4 and G9?

The main difference between the two capsule bulbs are their voltages. A G9 operates off the mains voltage (220-240V), whilst a G4 capsule is a lower voltage (usually between 12V and 24V) and needs to be installed with a compatible transformer. This transformer then transforms the mains voltage into a lower voltage that is suitable for the bulb.