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Resistor for a white LED on 5 volts
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91 Ω
resistor for a white LED on 5 V at 20 mA (calculated 90 Ω)
White LED on 5 V by current
| LED current | Exact resistor | Standard value |
|---|---|---|
| 5 mA | 360 Ω | 360 Ω |
| 10 mA | 180 Ω | 180 Ω |
| 15 mA | 120 Ω | 120 Ω |
| 20 mA | 90 Ω | 91 Ω |
Assumes 3.2 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 white LED on 5V?
For a white LED (about 3.2 V forward voltage) at 20 mA on 5 V: R = (5 − 3.2) ÷ 0.020 = 90 Ω. The next standard value is 91 Ω, which gives 19.8 mA.
What resistor is safe for an Arduino or breadboard with a white LED on 5V?
A 180 Ω resistor limits the current to about 10 mA - dimmer but safe and long-lived. Use 91 Ω for full brightness.
What power rating does the resistor need?
At 19.8 mA it dissipates about 36 mW, so a 1/4 W resistor is enough.
LED resistor calculator · all supply voltages · Ohm’s law
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