What is a G9 LED bulb and how is it different from halogen?

A G9 LED bulb is a small light bulb that has a base with two pins which are 9mm apart. These bulbs are commonly used in decorative fixtures such as wall lights, chandeliers, and under-cabinet lighting.   G9 bulbs were commonly made from halogen technology but LED alternatives have become available and have quickly become the preferred choice for a G9 lamp.

G9 LED bulbs have a greater energy efficiency, lifespan and less heat output when compared to halogen G9 bulbs.  

How do these differences compare?

The wattage of a halogen G9 bulb can range from 25W to 60W of power and it generates a significant amount of heat as this is the way it produces light.  A G9 LED equivalent however will use 2W to 7W of power on average while delivering the same level of brightness.  This demonstrates how much more energy efficient G9 LED bulbs are when they are compared to halogen G9 bulbs.  The difference in electricity usage when they are compared is 80-90% lower. 

The lifespan of LED lighting technology is also much greater than that of a halogen G9 bulb. A halogen G9 bulb on average can last up to 2,000 hours, whereas a G9 LED bulb can last for 15,000 to 25,000 hours.   This means that you will have to replace the LED versions a lot less over time adding to their overall value and savings in the long term.

Heat is another factor to consider when comparing halogen to LED G9 bulbs.  Halogen bulbs operate at very high temperatures and this can be a safety concern when they are used in enclosed fittings or when near fabrics.  As the G9 format is often used for decorative fitting this can be an increased safety risk compared to other types of lighting fixtures. 

Modern G9 LED bulbs offer a wide range of colour temperatures including warm white (ideal for living spaces) cool white and daylight (better for kitchens and workspaces).   They also have a high CRI (colour rendering index) which helps to make colours appear more vibrant and to mirror midday sunlight.  

Looking at both types of technology in terms of cost, LED bulbs are more expensive at the first stage of purchase but due to the savings in energy combined with their longer lifespan they are much more cost effective in the long term.