Which GU10 LED?

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Struggling to choose the right GU10 LED? We’ve compared the UK’s top options based on brightness, features, dimming, and value to help you find the best bulb for your needs.

GU10 lamps have become the most popular choice of light bulb cap type in the UK. GU10s became the #1 choice for downlight installations in the late nineties, taking over from the MR16 (GU5.3) cap. The main reason for this was because they operate on mains voltage and don't require a transformer unlike the MR16 (GU5.3) which operates on 12 volts.

No Transformer Required

Because it doesn't require a transformer, it's more cost effective and easier to install. Many consumers are converting their existing low voltage MR16 downlights into GU10 so they don't have to deal with the possibility of the transformer not being compatible. If you're converting to LED and also have to upgrade the transformer (AC to AC) to an LED driver (AC to DC) it's going to end up costing much more and will require some rewiring. By the time you've done this you could have fitted a brand new integrated LED downlight.

As the demand increases for more a more energy efficient alternative to halogen, so do the variations from different manufacturers all claiming to be the best. Halogen technology should be only used for heating, not lighting. The amount of heat a 50 watt halogen produces is ridiculous and a total waste of energy. As a result halogen GU10s were banned from the EU in 2016. In comparison a 5W GU10 LED lamp will save you 90% in energy and last 15 to 40 times longer. The life expectancy of the LED depends on which brand and version you choose. The Philips 5.5W Expert Colour lasts for 40,000 hours compared to 1,000 hours of a halogen.

We've compiled a short buyers guide that compares our best selling GU10 LEDs, although we do offer a few other brands, the ones we've selected offer key selling features such as brightness, dimming performance, reliability and value.

What is a GU10?

GU10 Cap

A GU10 is a type of cap commonly used in spotlight bulbs. The "GU10" refers to the cap type with two pins 10mm apart. Originally designed for halogen lamps, GU10s have since evolved into LED and CFL formats.

They’re widely used in downlights because they operate on mains voltage and don’t require a separate transformer, unlike MR16 (GU5.3) low-voltage bulbs. To qualify as a 50W halogen equivalent, an LED GU10 must produce at least 345 lumens (according to DIM2 compliance).

GU10 LED Comparison Guide

Explore the UK’s top GU10 LED spotlights, comparing their features, brightness levels, dimming capabilities, and more. Whether you're after performance, value, or compatibility with smart systems — this guide helps you decide.

Philips 4.9W Master Value

  • Great value with high specs
  • 355–380 lumen output
  • DimTone tech dims both brightness & colour temperature
  • 90 CRI for accurate colour rendering
  • 25,000 hrs | 3-year guarantee

Philips 5.5W MasterLED

  • Ultra high colour rendering: 97 CRI
  • Beam angles: 25° or 36°
  • 355–400 lumens | Dimmable
  • 40,000 hrs | 5-year guarantee

Philips 6.2W Master Value

  • Super bright: 590–610 lumens
  • Replaces 12V 50W MR16 halogens
  • Available in 3000K, 4000K, 6500K
  • 90 CRI | 25,000 hrs | 3-year guarantee

Aurora Ice 5W GU10

  • Up to 520 lumens with a 60° beam
  • Available dimmable & non-dimmable
  • ThermoTec™ thermal management
  • Compatible with Lightwave, Lutron, Rako & more

Integral 4.9W GU10 LED

  • Great budget choice
  • 590–600 lumens
  • Available in 2700K, 4000K, 6500K
  • Dimmable as standard

Which Should You Choose?

  • Smart home compatibility? Choose Aurora – works with Lutron, Lightwave RF, etc.
  • Lights spaced 1.5m+ apart? Aurora’s wide beam (60°) avoids dark patches.
  • Lights on 6+ hrs/day? Go with Philips – they’re the most reliable.

Our Favourite

Philips 4.9W Master Value is our top pick. It’s reliable, bright enough to replace a 50W halogen, and features DimTone dimming with warm colour shift from 2700K to 2200K. Great colour accuracy (90 CRI) and excellent build quality make it a dependable choice.

Need help choosing? We've been lighting specialists for over 15 years and offer expert advice, next-day delivery, and top-quality stock from trusted brands like Philips and Aurora.

Order online: www.downlights.co.uk
Email: [email protected]
Call: 01706 868343


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