Choosing the right 250 watt metal halide bulb can impact efficiency, color rendering, and maintenance cycles for outdoor fixtures, parking lots, and large indoor spaces. This guide highlights five popular options, summarizing key specs and features to help you compare quickly. Each product is suitable for mogul-base (E39) fixtures and delivers bright, reliable illumination with a 4000K color temperature. Use the buying guide to weigh base types, lumen output, life span, and application fit before purchasing.
| Product | Brand | Base | Lumens | Color Temp |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunlite MH250/U/MOG | Sunlite | Mogul E39 | 21,000 | 4000K |
| Rossesay MH400/U/MOG (3-Pack) | Rossesay | Mogul E39 | 36,000 | 4000K |
| Sunlite 03658 MH250/U/MOG | Sunlite | Mogul E39 | 21,000 | 4000K |
| (6-Pack) Sylvania 64032 M250UED28 | SYLVANIA | E39 | ~(unknown listed) | 4200K |
| Sylvania M250/U/ED28 250w | SYLVANIA | E39 | High output | 4200K |
Sunlite MH250/U/MOG M58 Metal Halide Lamp
Features: METAL HALIDE for outdoor lighting and commercial interiors, high efficiency and long service life; HIGH INTENSITY DISCHARGE with 21000 lumens; 4000K color temperature; Clear glass bulb; MOGUL BASE (E39) suitable for street lights, parking lots, and perimeter lighting. Bulb dimensions are approximately 3.53 inches in diameter and 8.19 inches tall.
This 250-watt lamp is designed for durability in challenging environments and is compatible with many standard mogul-base fixtures. It emphasizes lumen maintenance and color rendering, making it a solid choice for large outdoor spaces and industrial interiors that require bright, consistent lighting.
Rossesay 3 Pack MH400/U/MOG 250W Metal Halide Bulbs
Features: Includes three 250W metal halide bulbs with 36000 lumens total at 4000K; Mogul base E39; ED28 variant; suitable for outdoor and commercial indoor lighting. Package design emphasizes multiple replacements to cover ongoing maintenance needs; robust for varied applications from large storefronts to landscape lighting.
Sunlite 03658 MH250/U/MOG 250W Lamp
Features: METAL HALIDE for commercial and outdoor use; 21000 lumens output at 4000K; Clear finish; Mogul base (E39); Similar dimensions to other 250W HID lamps, enabling use in standard fixtures with robust lumen maintenance and color fidelity.
Sylvania 64032 M250UED28 250W Metal Halide
Features: 250W metal halide lamp with E39 mogul base; enclosed fixture rated; 4200K color temperature; 10,000-hour life expectancy; designed for reliable performance in enclosed spaces and exterior fixtures that require consistent color and brightness.
Sylvania M250/U/ED28 250W 4200K
Features: HID bulb with high output; suitable for general lighting and professional fixtures; designed for 3-5 times greater lumen output per watt than traditional halogen bulbs; 4200K color temperature; E39 base; recommended for larger lighting applications and grow environments where high-intensity illumination is needed.
Venture 33479 MH250W/U/T15 250W Lamp
Features: CLEAR color finish; 4000K color temperature; 21000 lumens; Mogul base; designed for strong outdoor exposure or large indoor spaces where bright, uniform illumination is essential.
Satco S5831 250-Watt Clear MH Lamp
Features: 250-Watt clear metal halide lamp; Mogul base; 4200K color temperature; designed for universal mounting in compatible fixtures; suitable for outdoor and interior applications where bright, crisp illumination is required.
Buying Guide
- Base compatibility: Most 250W MH bulbs use the mogul E39 base. Confirm your fixture accepts E39/Mogul sockets and that the ballast is rated for HID operation at 250W.
- Color temperature: 4000K produces a neutral white light suitable for general outdoor and commercial spaces; 4200K provides a brighter, slightly cooler appearance. Choose based on surroundings and glare considerations.
- Lumen output and efficiency: Higher lumens per watt translates to brighter illumination with potentially lower energy use over time. Compare lumen figures to ensure fixture coverage meets area requirements.
- Life span and maintenance: Look for life ratings around 10,000 to 15,000 hours or more. Consider replacement frequency in high-usage areas to optimize maintenance planning.
- Enclosed fixtures and ballast compatibility: Some MH lamps are designed for enclosed fixtures or specific ballast types. Verify compatibility to prevent premature failure or color shift.
- Package considerations: Some products are sold in packs (e.g., 3-pack or 6-pack) which can reduce replacement downtime but require upfront investment. Assess replacement cadence and demand.
- Outdoor suitability: For outdoor lighting, ensure the bulb and fixture are rated for environmental exposure, including temperature ranges and exposure to the elements.
- Color rendering and application: Metal halide lamps offer good color rendering for signage, parking areas, and outdoor architecture. If color appearance matters, test or review color rendering index (CRI) information when available.
- Maintenance planning: For locations with frequent cycling or long daylight hours, plan for ballast wear and potential ballast replacement alongside bulb replacements.