Q & A: Is a GU10 really an MR16?

31 Mar

Q: I read somewhere that a GU10 is really an MR16. Is this true?

A: It’s true! A GU10 is really an MR16.

The difference between what are commonly refered to as MR16 and GU10 is the base. Though the bulbs are both MR16, the Bipin version is an MR16 with a GU5.3 base. The twist lock version is an MR16 with a GU10 base.

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6 Responses to “Q & A: Is a GU10 really an MR16?”

Robert April 10, 2009 at 5:19 pm #

Why are these lamps called MR16?

The “MR” stands for Multifaceted Reflector. This refers to the glass reflector that is inside the bulb. It is faceted in order to control the beam of the light.

The “16″ refers to the size of the diameter of the bulb, in eighths-of-an-inch. So an MR16 has 16 eighths diameter, which is 2 inches. An MR11 has 11 eighths diameter, which is 1-3/8 inches.
Matt June 30, 2010 at 11:09 pm #

Do they make MR16 LED lamps that are G5.3 base and 120 volt like they do halogens?
Matt June 30, 2010 at 11:10 pm #

Sorry, GU5.3 base
Jeff July 17, 2010 at 1:19 am #

Mr16s work on 12Volts only whereas Gu10s are high voltage.

Jeff
admin October 5, 2010 at 1:03 pm #

I haven’t seen any MR16s with a GU5.3 base in 120v.
Max December 21, 2011 at 7:43 am #

Good info, didnt know GU10 was also mr16..