What Is the Difference Between a T5 and a T8 LED Tube?

The main difference between T5 and T8 LED tubes is their diameter and how they are used. T5 tubes have a diameter of 5/8 inch (approximately 16mm) and are commonly installed in modern lighting systems such as modular ceilings in offices, retail spaces, and educational facilities. They typically use G5 caps (pins 5mm apart) and operate with high-frequency ballasts or specific LED drivers. T5 LED tubes are designed for fixtures where space is limited, offering high light output from a compact form factor.

T8 tubes, on the other hand, have a larger diameter of 1 inch (approximately 26mm) and use G13 caps (pins 13mm apart). They are more frequently found in older fittings and traditional battens, especially in warehouses, garages, and industrial settings. One of the advantages of T8 LED tubes is that they are often easier to retrofit, as many products are designed to work directly with or without existing ballasts. While both T5 and T8 LED tubes are highly energy-efficient, the choice often comes down to fixture compatibility and the physical space available within the lighting installation.