Types of Track Lighting

Types of Track Lighting

The best track lighting for you is the type that fits your home. Tracks, sometimes called rails, come in four general categories:

• A standard track lighting rail is a straight track. It’s also called linear track lighting because it’s one line of track with lighting attached. It’s the most traditional option.
• Swing arm track lighting mounts only the center of the track, like a standard lighting fixture. Sections of the track are jointed and swivel around a pivot point. Move or swing the sections to create angled or zigzag track lighting designs.
• Monorail track lighting isn’t mounted directly to the ceiling. Instead, it hangs from bars called standoffs. They come in curved designs for a more organic feel. They’re often low-voltage, but you can find monorail models in 120-volts too.
• Fixed track lighting is attached to the wall instead of the ceiling. They’re an alternative to a standard bathroom vanity light. These fixtures have adjustable track heads like linear track lighting.

All track lighting is on a H, L or J track. Types of track lighting aren’t named for their shapes. Instead, the names relate to the first manufacturers. H tracks were made by Halo, J-tracks by Juno and L tracks by Lightolier. 

They're difficult to tell apart. Narrow down the type by seeing how many wires the track has. L- and J-tracks have two wires. H-tracks have three. 

The three types of track lighting parts don’t mix and match. They only work within that single type:

• H track parts are compatible with other H-track pieces.
• J-track parts work together, and L-track pieces fit each other.
• Stick to just one manufacturer, brand and model when choosing parts. Small variations across brands could cause fit problems otherwise.

Finding parts for an existing track can be challenging. Try these tips to see if a pro can help you figure out the track type:

• Take a photo of your track and light heads.
• If shopping in person, take a track light head with you.