During the holidays, one of the dilemmas we always face is which Christmas light bulbs we should buy. And with a myriad of Christmas light decors flooding the market during this time of the year, it is quite a bit tricky which one to opt that suits our needs.

Two of the most common light bulbs in outdoor Christmas lights are the C7 and C9 bulbs. However, some people can't still distinguish the difference between the two. But we can't blame them since these light bulbs look very identical to each other.

Luckily, you stumbled upon this article today. Below, you are finally going to have your peace of mind about the difference between C7 and C9 light bulbs. We are going to differentiate the two in each category, such as size, usage, etc. So without further ado, let's get started.

Size and Wattage

At first glance, you will notice the size are different from each other. The C7 bulb is a tad bit smaller compared to its C9 sibling. The C7 bulb measures 2.13" including the socket in length, and .813" in width. 

The C9 bulb measures 3.25" including the socket in length and 1.2" in width. This makes the C9 the bigger brother between the two.

You can quickly tell if a Christmas light string is for a C7 bulb because of the socket. The C7 has an E12 base, which is a base that is also commonly used by nightlights. So to test if a Christmas light string is for a C7 bulb, all you have to do is get a regular nightlight and fit it into the socket, and you're done. 

Meanwhile, the C9 bulb has an E17 base, which is slightly larger than the C7 base. Both the C7 and C9 bulbs are available at .58 watts. However, the C9 is a lot brighter than the C7 even though the wattage is the same. This is due to the extra SMD LED that is in the C9 bulbs.  

Usage and Safety

Using C7 and C9 bulbs have often been a debate over which is better, brighter, more cost-efficient, etc. While LED bulbs cut costs dramatically, our C9 bulbs have an extra diode inside of them. So on a microscopic scale, the C9 would be slightly more costly, but this is after you factor in the enormous savings that you get compared to incandescent bulbs. C9 bulbs are often likened to the traditional Christmas lights that are large and bold, usually lighting up grandma's house. These are attractive options for anyone looking for a bright and classic look. The C7 bulbs are a rising star in the Christmas lights industry. C7's offer a bold look with a more modern feel. Essentially, the C7's are slightly smaller than the C9's while retaining the same shape, look, and feel. Somehow, they simply appeal more to the younger generation.

Our Christmas lights emit low heat and are perfectly safe for stringing up in your bushes, trees, fences, rooflines, and more. Be sure to use them with our brand of light strings as well for maximum safety compatibility.

When stringing your Christmas lights, it is imperative that you adhere to the electrical safety standards for each light string. Never run more bulbs than your equipment can handle. Our LED bulbs allow you to string a large number of bulbs together on one outlet; however, nothing is infinite. Please use caution.

Which One is for You? C7 or C9 Bulbs?

If you are on a budget, then go for a C7 bulb. With its small form factor and lesser brightness output, it's comparably affordable compared to C9 bulbs. C7 lights go well with everything, and you can even use it indoors because of its smaller size and adequate light brightness. Want to create an atmosphere in your bedroom or make the living room more romantic? C7 light bulbs got you covered. 

If you have a small home, a C7 bulb will be enough for you to outline your house from every corner. But if you're living in a mansion and want to show off your neighbors how bright it can get during the holidays, then C9 bulbs are the way to go. As said earlier, C9 bulbs are made for bigger establishments, which also fits for bigger houses.

Where Can I Buy C7 And C9 Bulbs?

You can buy high-quality C7 and C9 bulbs here at HLO Lighting. Our C7 and C9 bulbs are crafted with care and safety in mind, so rest assured that you won't regret any single cent you paid for. 

Our C7 and C9 bulbs come in a wide variety of designs and colors as well. Whether you like it red, blue, yellow, green, etc., you have them all for you. Not to mention, it also comes with a variety of features that our competitors don't have.

The C7 and C9 bulbs we have in stock are lovely for both indoor and outdoor use. It's usable for parties, backyard barbecues, or outdoor events as well. Both C7 and C9 bulbs we have here are also dimmable if you have a dimmer switch so that you can set the mood and tone to your liking.

And for added durability, our C7 and C9 bulbs are made to withstand the test of time. Both are made from weatherproof and shatterproof. No amount of rain and snow can take down these light bulbs with ease. Also, they last longer compared to C7 and C9 light bulbs from our competitors. And thanks to its energy-efficiency, our C7 and C9 light bulbs won't take a toll on your electric bill. 

Orders Yours Now at HLO Lighting

And what better way to spend the holidays than getting your very own C7 and C9 light bulbs at HLO Lighting. Get yours now by ordering here on the site while stocks last. However, shipping time may vary depending on where you live because of the pandemic.

While you're at it, you can also browse our site for more lighting decors that you might love. We have plenty of options to choose from, ranging from patio lights, Christmas lights, holiday bulbs, clips/accessories, and more. Feel free to take a look around, and we will be glad to assist you while you shop.