Which cord grade should I choose for my string lights?
When you hear commercial grade, it is the actual stringer, not the light bulbs, that make string lights "commercial grade". Light bulbs can be used interchangeably between standard and commercial grade stringers, as long as the base size of the bulb matches the socket size of the cord. Choosing between our cord grades depends on your application and preference. Here we've outlined the key differences to help you decide.
Commercial Grade ▾
Our commercial grade cords are suitable for outdoor, year-round use and ideal for permanent installations. They are perfect for that high-end, professional look around patios, backyards, bars, restaurants, weddings, events, and more. Additional features of our commercial grade string lights include:
- High quality PVC sockets form a snug, weather‐resistant seal around the bulb.
- Heavier gauge wire (14- or 16-gauge depending on socket size).
- Ability to safely have longer runs (total wattage allowed per cord).
- Cord lengths: 25 to 330 feet (varies by socket size) and custom lengths.
- Cord colors: black, white, and green.
- Socket sizes: medium/E26, C9/intermediate/E17, and C7/candelabra/E12 (see comparison below).
Shop Commercial Grade Cords
Standard Grade ▾
Our standard grade stringers still have a time and a place in the world of decorative string lights. Not every application calls for the heavier outdoor stringers. Below are some key points when deciding if our globe patio lights are perfect for your space:
- Cost-effective.
- Suitable for outdoor use but may not last as long.
- Great for indoor lighting for events, holidays and room decor.
- Good option for temporary lighting needs like smaller events or weddings.
- Cord lengths: 14 to 100 feet (varies by socket size) and custom lengths (wider socket spacing version).
- Cord colors: black, white, and green.
- Socket sizes: medium/E26, C9/intermediate/E17, and C7/candelabra/E12 (see comparison below).
Shop Standard Grade Cords
Which socket size is right for me?
There are enough variables between the socket size options when it comes to string lights, so one may want to pick based on socket size first, then decide the cord grade (see above). Thinking through these details will help ensure you have the right amount and style of string lighting you're trying to achieve. Review the key differences below.
Medium / E26 Socket Size ▾
Our medium / E26 cords have a socket that is the same size as a standard household bulb. They are ideal for larger patios and backyard spaces, as well as bars and restaurants or large events. Some of the key features of this socket size include:
- High-quality PVC sockets form a snug, weather‐resistant seal around the bulb.
- Heavier 14-gauge insulated wire.
- Socket spacing: 24 inches
- Cord lengths: 48, 100, and 330 feet, as well as custom length options
- Cord colors: black, white, and green
Shop Medium / E26 Base Cords
C9 / Intermediate / E17 Socket Size ▾
The slightly smaller C9 / intermediate / E17 socket and shorter socket spacing provides a lighter weight solution for smaller patio areas. Shorter lengths are available to accommodate smaller spaces. Available in both commercial and standard grade options, below are the specifications specific to the C9 socket size:
Commercial Grade C9 Cords
- High-quality PVC sockets form a snug, weather-resistant seal.
- Heavier 16-gauge wire.
- Socket spacing: 15 inches
- Cord lengths: 56 and 330 feet, as well as custom lengths
- Cord colors: black and white
Standard Grade C9 Cords
- 18-gauge wire.
- Socket spacing: 12, 24 and 36 inches
- Cord lengths: 14, 25, 30, 50 and 100 feet, as well as custom length
- Cord colors: black, white, and green
Shop C9 / Intermediate / E17 Base Cords
C7 / Candelabra / Socket Size ▾
Although quite similar to C9, the C7 / candelabra / E12 socket provides not only a commercial grade option, but also an inexpensive solution for smaller patio areas and one-time events. Compare the options below along with the C9 options above to find the right cord for your new string lights.
Commercial Grade C7 Cords
- High-quality PVC sockets form a snug, weather-resistant seal.
- Heavier 16-gauge wire.
- Socket spacing: 12 inches
- Cord lengths: 25 and 330 feet
- Cord colors: black
Standard Grade C7 Cords
- 18-gauge wire.
- Socket spacing: 12 inches
- Cord lengths: 25 and 100 feet
- Cord colors: black, white, and green
Shop C7 / Intermediate / E12 Base Cords
This is a lot of information and sometimes it's easier to talk over ideas with someone. Feel free to give us a call any time during our customer service hours (Mon-Fri 10-3 CST), and we'd be happy to answer all your questions and help you get the perfect lights for your space.
