You're standing in the lighting aisle, staring at these cool vintage-looking bulbs. They both say "Edison style" on the package. One's labeled ST58, the other ST64. They look pretty similar, right? But here's the thing - picking the wrong one could throw off your whole room's vibe.
Let me break this down for you in plain English. No fancy technical jargon, just the real deal on what makes these bulbs different and which one actually belongs in your home.
What Are ST58 and ST64 Bulbs Anyway?
Before we jump into the st58 vs st64 showdown, let's get clear on what we're actually talking about here.
ST stands for "Standard" or "Straight" - basically the classic lightbulb shape you picture in your head. You know, the one that pops up in cartoons when someone has an idea. The numbers? That's where things get interesting. They tell you the diameter of the bulb in millimeters.
So an ST58 bulb measures 58mm across (that's about 2.3 inches). The ST64 measures 64mm (roughly 2.5 inches). We're talking about a difference of just 6mm, but trust me, it matters more than you'd think.
Both bulbs rock that vintage Edison look with exposed filaments that glow warm and cozy. They're perfect for industrial-style spaces, coffe shops, or just adding some character to your boring old ceiling fixture.
Quick Comparison: ST58 vs ST64 at a Glance
| Feature | ST58 | ST64 |
| Diameter | 58mm (2.3 inches) | 64mm (2.5 inches) |
| Best For | Smaller fixtures, tight spaces | Statement pieces, larger fixtures |
| Visual Impact | Subtle, understated | Bold, eye-catching |
| Price Range | $8-15 per bulb | $10-18 per bulb |
| Common Wattage | 25W-60W equivalent | 40W-100W equivalent |
| Base Type | E26/E27 | E26/E27 |
| Fixture Compatibility | Narrow shades, pendants | Open fixtures, chandeliers |
| Filament Visibility | Good | Excellent |
| Room Suitability | Bedrooms, hallways | Living rooms, dining areas |
Size Matters: The Real Difference in Dimensions
Okay, so we know the ST64 is bigger. But what does that actually mean for your space?
The st58 measures 58mm wide and typically around 106mm tall. It's the more compact option. Think of it as the younger sibling - still cool, just a bit smaller.
The st64 comes in at 64mm wide and usually about 140mm tall. This extra size gives you more glass surface area and makes the filament pattern inside more visible and dramatic.
Here's what this means in real life: if you've got a fixture with a narrow opening or a small lampshade, the ST58 fits better. It won't look cramped or awkward. But if you've got an open pendant light hanging over your kitchen island, the ST64 makes more of a statement. It fills the space better and becomes a focal point rather than just "that lightbulb."
Why 6mm Actually Matters
I know what you're thinking - "it's just 6mm, who cares?" Well, your fixture cares. And your room's aesthetics definitely care.
That extra width on the ST64 means it needs more clearance. Some vintage-style fixtures have tight socket housings or decorative cages that were designed for smaller bulbs. Trying to jam an ST64 into a fixture made for ST58 is like wearing shoes that are half a size too small. Technically possible, but not a good look.
Light Output and Brightness Comparison
Here's something people don't realize right away - the st58 vs st64 debate isn't just about size. The bigger bulb usually means different lighting characteristics too.
ST58 brightness: Most ST58 bulbs range from 200-500 lumens. That's enough light for ambient lighting or accent purposes. You're looking at something comparable to old 25W-40W incandescent bulbs.
ST64 brightness: These typically offer 400-800 lumens. The larger filament area can hold more LED elements or longer vintage-style filament wires, giving you more light output. Think 40W-60W equivalent in old bulb terms.
But here's the catch - more light isn't always better. In a small reading nook, an ST64 might feel too bright and harsh. In a big dining room, an ST58 might leave things feeling dim and underwhelming.
Aesthetic Appeal: Which One Looks Better?
This is where things get subjective, but I'll give you the honest take.
The ST58 has a delicate, refined look. The filament patterns appear tighter and more intricate because everything's packed into a smaller space. If you're going for that subtle vintage charm without screaming "look at my Edison bulbs," this is your pick. It works great in minimalist settings or spaces where you want lighting to enhance rather than dominate.
The ST64 is the showstopper. That extra glass real estate means the filament has room to breathe and make a statement. The curves are more pronounced, and the whole bulb has more presence. It's like the difference between wearing a simple watch and wearing a statement piece. Both tell time, but one starts conversations.
For inspiration on creating compelling visual content for your space, sites like Big Write Hook offer great examples of how presentation impacts perception - the same principle applies to lighting design.
Filament Patterns and Styles
Both st58 and st64 bulbs come in various filament styles:
- Spiral filament: Coils upward like a spring
- Squirrel cage: Vintage hairpin loops
- Globe style: Multiple loops creating a sphere effect
- Edison style: Classic horizontal loops
The ST64's larger size shows off these patterns better, especially the more complex ones like squirrel cage designs. In an ST58, some intricate patterns can look crowded or hard to see from a distance.
Where Each Bulb Works Best
Perfect Spots for ST58 Bulbs
The ST58 shines (pun intended) in these situations:
- Table lamps: Fits nicely under standard lampshades without touching
- Wall sconces: Provides warm ambient light without overwhelming small fixtures
- Bedroom pendants: Creates cozy atmosphere without being too bold
- Narrow chandeliers: Works in fixtures with limited spacing between sockets
- Bathrooms: Adds vintage charm without dominating small spaces
- Hallways: Provides adequate light in compact fixtures
Perfect Spots for ST64 Bulbs
The ST64 is the better choice for:
- Kitchen islands: Makes a statement in open pendant fixtures
- Dining rooms: Creates focal point above tables
- Living room lamps: Provides enough light for functional spaces
- Industrial fixtures: Matches the scale of larger metal or wire cages
- Open ceiling fixtures: Fills visual space in exposed bulb applications
- Commercial spaces: Restaurants, cafes, retail shops where you want drama
Energy Efficiency: LED vs Traditional
Most modern st58 vs st64 bulbs come in LED versions now, which changes the game considerably.
Traditional incandescent versions: These use 25W-60W of actual power, get hot quickly, and last maybe 1,000 hours. They're authentic looking but expensive to run.
LED versions: Use only 4W-8W of power while producing the same light output. They last 15,000-25,000 hours and stay relatively cool. The filaments are designed to mimic the vintage look while giving you modern efficiency.
Here's a real-world example: Running an LED ST64 bulb 3 hours per day costs about $2 per year in electricity. The traditional incandescent version? Around $15 per year. Over the bulb's lifetime, you'll save well over $100 in electricity costs alone.
Price Breakdown: What You'll Actually Pay
Let's talk money because these aren't your basic $1 bulbs from the hardware store.
ST58 pricing:
- Budget LED options: $8-12 per bulb
- Mid-range quality: $12-15 per bulb
- Premium brands: $15-20 per bulb
- Traditional incandescent: $5-8 per bulb
ST64 pricing:
- Budget LED options: $10-14 per bulb
- Mid-range quality: $14-18 per bulb
- Premium brands: $18-25 per bulb
- Traditional incandescent: $6-10 per bulb
The ST64 costs more because it uses more materials and typically has higher lumen output. But we're talking maybe $2-5 more per bulb. If you're outfitting a whole fixture with multiple bulbs, that difference adds up fast.
Installation and Compatibility Issues
Both bulbs use standard E26 bases (that's the normal screw-in size for US fixtures). Installation is literally just screwing in the bulb. Even your grandma could do it.
But here's where people run into problems:
Dimmer switches: Not all LED Edison bulbs play nice with dimmers. You need dimmable bulbs specifically, and even then, some flicker at low settings. Check the packaging before you buy.
Enclosed fixtures: Many LED Edison bulbs can't be used in fully enclosed fixtures because heat builds up. Read the fine print.
Size clearance: Before buying ST64 bulbs, physically measure your fixture opening. I've seen too many people try to return bulbs because they didn't check first.
Pros and Cons: The Honest Truth
ST58 Advantages
- Fits in tighter spaces
- Costs slightly less
- More subtle aesthetic
- Works in more fixture types
- Good for layered lighting schemes
ST58 Disadvantages
- Less visual impact
- Lower light output options
- Filament patterns less visible
- Can look small in large fixtures
ST64 Advantages
- Makes bold statement
- Higher light output available
- Filament patterns more visible
- Better for primary lighting
- More authentic Edison look
ST64 Disadvantages
- Costs more upfront
- Requires more clearance space
- Can overwhelm small fixtures
- May be too bright for intimate settings
Real User Experiences and Feedback
I've talked to dozens of people who've used both types, and here's what comes up repeatedly:
One homeowner told me she bought ST64 bulbs for her bathroom vanity lights and immediately regretted it. They were too big for the fixture and stuck out awkwardly. She switched to ST58 and said it looked "perfect and intentional."
On the flip side, a restaurant owner tried ST58 bulbs in his industrial-style pendant lights over the bar. He said they looked "cheap and undersized." After switching to ST64, customers started complimenting the lighting specifically.
The pattern is clear: size your bulbs to your fixtures. It's not about which bulb is "better" - it's about which one fits your specific situation.
Which One Should You Actually Buy?
After covering all this ground in the st58 vs st64 debate, here's my straight answer:
Choose ST58 if:
- Your fixtures have limited space or narrow openings
- You want subtle vintage charm without bold statements
- You're lighting smaller rooms like bedrooms or bathrooms
- You're on a tighter budget and buying multiple bulbs
- You want ambient or accent lighting, not primary illumination
Choose ST64 if:
- You have open fixtures where the bulb is the star
- You want maximum vintage aesthetic impact
- You're lighting larger spaces that need more presence
- You need higher light output for functional tasks
- The fixture is the focal point of the room
Can't decide? Get one of each and test them in your space. Light looks different in every room depending on wall colors, ceiling height, and natural light. What works in someone else's kitchen might not work in yours.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don't make these rookie errors:
Mistake 1: Buying based on price alone. That $6 bulb might seem like a deal until it dies in 3 months.
Mistake 2: Assuming bigger is always better. An ST64 in a small fixture looks ridiculous.
Mistake 3: Forgetting to check if the bulb is dimmable when you have dimmer switches.
Mistake 4: Not considering the number of bulbs in your fixture. Six ST64 bulbs might look overwhelming where six ST58 bulbs look perfect.
Mistake 5: Buying different color temperatures without checking. Make sure all your bulbs are 2700K or all 3000K - mixing creates a weird vibe.
The Bottom Line
The st58 vs st64 choice really comes down to scale and purpose. It's not rocket science, but it does require thinking about your specific space.
The ST58 is your versatile team player - works in most situations, doesn't draw too much attention, gets the job done reliably. The ST64 is your statement maker - bolder, brighter, more dramatic when used correctly.
For most people, I'd say start with ST64 bulbs for main fixtures where the bulb is visible and makes an impact. Use ST58 for everything else - table lamps, wall sconces, and secondary fixtures. This gives you visual interest without everything competing for attention.
And honestly? The "wrong" choice isn't a disaster. We're talking about lightbulbs, not permanent tattoos. If you buy ST58 and wish you'd gone bigger, you're out maybe $10-15 per bulb. Learn from it and move on.
Key Takeaways
- Size difference: ST58 is 58mm wide, ST64 is 64mm wide - that's about 0.25 inches
- Visual impact: ST64 makes bolder statements, ST58 offers subtle elegance
- Price gap: Expect to pay $2-5 more per ST64 bulb
- Best use: ST58 for enclosed/small fixtures, ST64 for open/large fixtures
- Energy: LED versions of both save significant money over time
- Compatibility: Both use standard E26 bases but check fixture clearance
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I mix ST58 and ST64 bulbs in the same room? Yes, but use them in different fixtures. Don't mix them in the same chandelier or pendant - that looks messy. Use one size for your main fixture and another for accent lighting.
Do ST64 bulbs use more electricity than ST58? Not necesarily. Both come in similar wattage options if you're comparing LED versions. A 6W ST58 and 6W ST64 use the same power - you're just getting different size and light distribution.
Which one lasts longer? Lifespan depends on the bulb quality and type, not the size. Both ST58 and ST64 LED bulbs typically last 15,000-25,000 hours with similar quality manufacturing.
Will ST64 fit in any fixture that ST58 fits? No. The ST64 is bigger and needs more clearance. Always measure your fixture opening before buying. If ST58 fits tightly, ST64 probably won't fit at all.
Are these bulbs good for reading lights? ST58 works better for reading lamps because it fits under shades properly. ST64 can work in open reading lamps but might be too bright depending on the wattage you choose.
Can I use these outdoors? Only if the specific bulb is rated for outdoor use. Most standard ST58 and ST64 bulbs are indoor only. Check the packaging for weather resistance ratings.
Final Verdict
There's no universaly "better" option in the st58 vs st64 debate. Both bulbs serve different purposes and shine (literally) in different situations.
If I had to pick just one for a typical home, I'd go with ST58 for versatility. It fits more fixtures, works in more rooms, and costs less when you're buying several. But for that wow-factor statement piece over your dining table or kitchen island? ST64 all the way.
The smart move is mixing both based on each fixture's needs. Don't overthink it - measure your fixtures, consider the room size, and choose accordingly. You'll probably end up using both types throughout your home anyway.
Now stop stressing about lightbulbs and go actually install some. Your space will look great either way.