
Get exclusive shopping offers and guides
Straight to your inbox
Finder is committed to editorial independence. While we receive compensation when you click links to partners, they do not influence our content.
Updated
States are slowly phasing out older incandescent bulbs for newer LED bulbs. These efficient bulbs often cost more up front, but they’re more efficient, lasting longer over their lifetime — and saving you money in the long run.
Name | Avg. price (USD) | Wattage equivalent | Color | Dimmable? | Brightness (lumen) | Average life | Purchase | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Philips LED Scene Switch E27![]() | $ | 6.5W / 9W | Daylight, Soft white, Warm glow | No | 800 | 15,000 hours | ||
Feit Electric Vintage Style LED![]() | $ | 4W | Soft white | Yes | 300 | 15,000 hours | ||
Ikea Ledare E26![]() | $3.99 | 8.6W | Warm white | Yes | 600 | 25,000 hours | ||
Bioluz A19![]() | $13.99 6 pack | 40 W | Warm white | No | 450 | 25,000 hours | Buy now | |
Sunco Lighting G25![]() | $29.99 | 40W | Cool white, warm light, daylight | Yes | 450 | 15,000 hours | Buy now | |
Gordon & Bond Vintage Edison![]() | $22.99 4 pack | 4W | Pleasant warm | Yes | 300 | 20,000 hours | Buy now | |
GE Daylight A21![]() | $24.99 | 75W | Daylight | No | 1,100 | 15,000 hours | Buy now | |
Torchstar G25![]() | $19.99 | 60W | Warm white | Yes | 500 | 22.8 years | Buy now |
LED light bulbs — or light-emitting diodes — are designed to last longer and run more efficiently than older incandescent models. In fact, countries all around the world begun phasing out the use of incandescent bulbs in favor of bulbs with lower electricity usage.
Compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, LED lights:
You’ll find a few disadvantages to LED light bulbs. As with all bulbs, color intensity and light output can decrease over time. Also, some people find the color of the LEDs to appear too blue.
However, many manufacturers now make vintage-style LED bulbs to replicate the look of traditional incandescents.
Downsides to LED light bulbs include:
When choosing a light bulb, consider the number of lumens, the temperature of the light and its ability to dim.
Color temperature | Degrees | Description | Best for |
---|---|---|---|
Soft or warm white | 2,700 Kelvin | Mimics the yellow tones of a sunrise or sunset to result in a cozy feel. | Bedrooms, living rooms and dining rooms |
Cool or bright white | 4,100 Kelvin | Brighter than soft white bulbs to give rooms a more energetic and awake feel. | Kitchens, garages, workspaces and bathrooms |
Daylight | 5,000 Kelvin | Designed to replicate the bluish white of a midday sun. | Accent lighting and reading areas |
Dimming. Not all LED bulbs are compatible with built-in dimmer switches. If you have an in-wall dimmer switch, look for LED bulbs that are dimmable.
Smart lights. Smart lights allow you to control your lights with your phone, tablet or computer. Some smart bulbs allow you to dim the lights or change the color temperature of the bulb using a Bluetooth connection. To control your lighting with voice commands, look for lights that are smart speaker capable so that you can connect them to your Google Home or Amazon Echo smart speaker.
LED light bulbs can help you save on your electric bill, because they’re more efficient than older incandescent bulbs. But you might not be a fan of the bluish glow that some types emit. Before switching out the bulbs in your home, compare your options to find the best fit for your household.
We considered the price, longevity, wattage and energy efficiency of each product to put together our list of the top LED light bulbs.
What are some alternatives to LED light bulbs?
Incandescent light bulbs are still available in the US. Other types of light bulbs include halogens, fluorescent bulbs, compact fluorescent lamps, mercury-vapor lamps and Edison bulbs.
What fixtures can can accept an LED light bulb?
LED lightbulbs can be used almost anywhere, as long as the LED light bulb uses less wattage than your lighting fixture. To replace a tube or other special type of light with an LED bulb, make sure you’re using the correct size and fit. Consult a professional for advice if you’re unsure.
How fire–safe are LED lights?
LED lights reduce the risk of a house fire, because they don’t get nearly as hot as other types of bulbs. Carefully check the safety of your wiring and fittings, and take other necessary safety precautions to prevent fire.
Get all the details on Target’s 14 Days of Beauty sale. And find some hacks on how to stretch your dollar and stack the savings.
Have your sights set on travel this year? We compared nearly 100 cards to find the best deals and perks.
These nativity scenes will add an extra dose of cheer to your front yard, just in time for Christmas. Find the top sites to shop.
Learn how to choose an air purifier to filter harmful particles out of the air so you can breathe easier in your home or office.
Cult shows may not appeal to a broad audience, but their quality is undeniable. Here are some of the best cult hits available to stream online.
There’s a new kid on the streaming block – and it comes with plenty of binge-worthy content.
Make the most of your visit to the land of fire and ice by traveling with an expert guide.
Face mask news and where to buy during COVID-19. Find in stock sellers, state requirements, how to make them, wear them and more.
Find out how much your business is eligible to borrow in 5 steps.
Look to your local government and private companies for cash you don’t have to repay.