MR16 & MR11 LED Bulbs

MR16 LEDs operate on a lower voltage of 12 volts compared with the more popular mains, 230 volt GU10 LED cap type. This lower voltage requirement can either be 12V AC (Alternating Current) or 12V DC (Direct Current). If the voltage is AC, they are designed to work with existing low voltage halogen transformers. If they are DC you'll need an LED driver.

An LED driver converts the mains voltage AC input into a 12V DC output.

The Philips range of MR16 LEDs we offer operate on AC meaning you can usually swap them straight over for your inefficient halogens. However...from experience this isn't always the case as the LED and transformer aren't always compatible. This can then involve having to upgrade the transformer. By the time you've swapped over the transformer, its easier and more cost effective to just replace your MR16 LEDs with mains voltage GU10s (with a GU10 lamp holder), or replace the entire downlights with new ones.

MR11 LEDs are smaller than MR16 meaning they are not as bright but allow them to be fitted into smaller downlights. An MR11 has a diameter of 35mm compared with the 50mm diameter of the MR16. The advantage of the MR11 is that they allow for smaller, less obtrusive holes to be cut into a ceiling.

We're now pleased to be able to offer a dimmable MR11 LED bulb! However this is an MR11 GU10, which is 35mm in diameter and operates on mains voltage. This is manufactured by Integral LED and they've also produced a fire rated MR11 downlights to go with it.

So, if you're replacing low voltage halogens, its better to replace them with GU10 LEDs.

If you're looking for a smaller style of LED downlight, check out our miniature LED downlights which are available with cut out size of just 25mm. They have integrated LEDs and come with an LED driver. Most of them can be dimmed, just check the specifications to make sure they have a dimmable LED driver or contact us to discuss your requirements.