Lamp vs. Luminaire
As lighting specialists, we notice that the terms “lamp” and “luminaire” are often used interchangeably, with a tendency to use “lamp” to describe a “luminaire”.
A lamp is a light source that produces optical visible radiation. The characteristics of a lamp are described by its colour temperature, dimension, socket, lamp lifetime, distribution, and luminous flux.
A luminaire or fixture is a lighting product that emits visible radiation. A luminaire contains all parts necessary to contain the lamp, thus the housing including the lamp socket, the reflectors or covers to distribute the lighting, and the technical equipment like heat sinks and drivers.
Tip from a lighting designer
Lighting designers design the layout of luminaires and define the characteristics of the lamps.