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Resistor for a red LED on 5 volts
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150 Ω
resistor for a red LED on 5 V at 20 mA (calculated 150 Ω)
Red LED on 5 V by current
| LED current | Exact resistor | Standard value |
|---|---|---|
| 5 mA | 600 Ω | 620 Ω |
| 10 mA | 300 Ω | 300 Ω |
| 15 mA | 200 Ω | 200 Ω |
| 20 mA | 150 Ω | 150 Ω |
Assumes 2.0 V forward voltage; check your LED datasheet. One LED per resistor; for several LEDs in series subtract each forward voltage from the supply.
Other LED colors on 5 V
FAQ
What resistor for a red LED on 5V?
For a red LED (about 2.0 V forward voltage) at 20 mA on 5 V: R = (5 − 2.0) ÷ 0.020 = 150 Ω. The next standard value is 150 Ω, which gives 20.0 mA.
What resistor is safe for an Arduino or breadboard with a red LED on 5V?
A 300 Ω resistor limits the current to about 10 mA - dimmer but safe and long-lived. Use 150 Ω for full brightness.
What power rating does the resistor need?
At 20.0 mA it dissipates about 60 mW, so a 1/4 W resistor is enough.
LED resistor calculator · all supply voltages · Ohm’s law
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