What is the typical operating current for a light-emitting diode?

The typical operating current for a light-emitting diode (LED) is commonly around 20 mA. This current level is generally used to achieve the desired brightness and efficiency for most standard applications. It strikes a balance where the LED outputs sufficient light without overheating or being damaged.

At 20 mA, the LED operates effectively while ensuring that it remains within its safe operating limits, which is crucial for longevity and performance. Operating significantly below this level may result in reduced brightness, while exceeding this level can lead to thermal runaways, resulting in damage to the LED.

Other current values, such as 5 mA, 10 mA, and 50 mA, do not represent typical operating conditions for most standard LEDs. While some applications or specific types of LEDs might work at those values, they do not represent the general norm for typical LED usage.