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Integrated LED vs Replaceable Bulbs: Which Should You Choose?

Jul 17, 2025 Kyle Gamble

At first glance, it might seem like all LED light fittings are the same — but there’s a key difference that can affect both how your light looks and how it performs over time.

The big decision? Whether to go for an integrated LED fitting or a design that uses replaceable bulbs like GU10, E27, or G9.

Each has its strengths — and understanding the pros and cons will help you make the right choice for your home.

What Is an Integrated LED Fitting?

An integrated LED fitting has the LED chip built directly into the fitting itself — it’s part of the design, rather than something you screw in or swap out later. These fittings often include a built-in driver (the component that regulates power) and are designed as a complete lighting solution.

They’re usually sleek, minimal, and efficient — but they aren’t always serviceable in the traditional sense.

Replaceable Bulb Fittings (GU10, E27, G9 etc.)

These are fittings that use a standard lamp cap — so you can insert and remove bulbs as needed. You can choose your own bulbs (including dimmable, smart, high CRI, etc.), and they’re easy to maintain.

At Leora Lighting, we stock fittings that support GU10, E27, E14, G9, and more — all clearly listed on our product pages.

 

Pros and Cons: At a Glance

Feature

Integrated LED

Replaceable Bulb

Design flexibility

✔ Ultra-slim, seamless styles

✘ Slightly bulkier to house bulbs

Efficiency

✔ High (fewer conversion losses)

✔ Depends on bulb quality

Dimming & control

✔ Often smoother with purpose-built drivers

✔ Depends on bulb and dimmer compatibility

Lifespan

✔ Long, if high quality

✔ Long, but bulb may need replacing sooner

Maintenance

✘ Full fitting replacement if LED fails

✔ Just replace the bulb

Future-proofing

✘ Harder to upgrade tech later

✔ Easy to switch bulbs as tech improves

Initial cost

✔ Sometimes lower overall

✔ Varies depending on bulb choice

 

When to Choose Integrated LED

Integrated LEDs are a great choice when:

  • You want a minimal, seamless look (especially for ceilings, walls, or tight spaces)
  • The fitting is high-quality and well-designed, with a long lifespan
  • You’re using it in low-maintenance areas like ceilings or high walls
  • You want consistent light output and dimming without trial and error

Just make sure you’re buying from a reputable brand — if the built-in LED fails prematurely, the whole fitting will usually need replacing.

At Leora Lighting, we only stock integrated LED fittings that meet high reliability standards — and where possible, we indicate the expected lifespan in hours.

When to Choose Replaceable Bulbs

Replaceable bulb fittings are ideal when:

  • You prefer flexibility (changing bulb type, brightness, colour temperature)
  • You want to match your bulbs across multiple fittings
  • The fitting is in a high-use or awkward-to-replace location
  • You’re working with smart home setups (many GU10 or E27 smart bulbs are available)

They’re also handy for people who like to swap aesthetics or function seasonally — think warm vs cool bulbs, or clear vs frosted finishes.

What About Dimming?

Integrated LED fittings often come with built-in drivers optimised for smooth dimming — especially when paired with programmable trailing edge dimmers.

Replaceable bulb fittings can be dimmable too, but you’ll need to:

  • Use dimmable bulbs (not all are)
  • Pair with a compatible dimmer for your bulb type (see our dimmer guide)

Still unsure? We clearly mark whether each fitting is dimmable — and which dimmer types work best.

One More Thing: LED Drivers Matter

Integrated fittings depend on internal drivers — the part that powers the LED. If the driver goes, so does the light. That’s why we stock fittings with quality components and reliable manufacturers.

Some of our replaceable-bulb fittings also come with external or remote drivers — particularly G4, G9, and low-voltage LEDs. These are noted on the product listing so you can plan installation accordingly.

 

Final Thoughts

So — should you go for integrated or replaceable?

If you value a streamlined look, efficient performance, and long lifespan, integrated LEDs are a smart choice — especially when paired with great build quality.

If you want flexibility, serviceability, and control, a replaceable bulb fitting may suit you better.

Still not sure? Get in touch. We’re happy to advise based on your room, layout, and lighting goals.

 

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