LED intensity comparisons How do I compare the brightness of different LEDs?
Generally LED intensity is measured in mcd (millicandela). Due to advances in technology some very bright LEDs are now called out in cd (candela). It is always important to know the intensity in mcd/cd and the full angle of illumination taken at specific drive current (measured in milliamps, mA). To accurately compare one LED to another, the Angle of Illumination and current levels must be the same. One must also be careful to verify the published specifications from any supplier. Recently the latest technology wide-angle LEDs that put out light flux similar to incandescent bulbs have intensity readings called out in Lumens. These lumen readings, taken at a set drive current (mA), remain the same regardless of beam angle.
