In the past, incandescent bulbs dominated the world of light fixtures, but now they have largely been replaced by more energy-efficient options like LED and CFL bulbs. However, incandescent bulbs maintain a distinct charm, especially in decorative light fixtures where their warm and genuine light is preferred. This article provides a thorough examination and analysis of the best incandescent bulbs available today to help you make an informed buying choice.
When choosing an incandescent bulb, there are a few key factors to consider. The first is the bulb’s wattage, which determines how much light the bulb will produce. It’s important to choose a bulb with an appropriate wattage for the fixture it will be used in to avoid both under- and over-illumination. Additionally, you’ll want to consider the bulb’s color temperature, which affects the color of the light it produces. Incandescent bulbs typically have a color temperature of around 2700K, which produces a warm, yellowish light. Finally, you’ll want to consider the bulb’s lifespan and energy efficiency, though it’s important to note that incandescent bulbs are generally less efficient and have a shorter lifespan than LED and CFL bulbs.
In our testing, we looked at a range of incandescent bulbs from different manufacturers and with different specifications. We evaluated each bulb’s brightness, color temperature, and overall quality of light. Additionally, we considered factors like lifespan and energy efficiency to help you make the best choice for your needs. Read on to see our findings and learn more about the best incandescent bulbs on the market.
Best Incandescent Bulbs
If you’re looking for a warm and cozy lighting option, incandescent bulbs may be the perfect choice for you. Despite their energy inefficiency, they still remain popular for their soft and inviting glow. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the best incandescent bulbs on the market. From classic shapes to vintage-inspired designs, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.
GE 66249 A19 72 Watt Soft White Bulb, 3x 4-Pack (12 Bulbs)
If you’re looking for an energy-efficient LED bulb that provides bright and clear light, then the GE 66249 A19 72 Watt Soft White Bulb is worth considering.
Pros
- The bulb provides bright and clear light, making it ideal for use in living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, dining rooms, and home offices.
- It is an Energy Star certified LED bulb, which means it uses less energy and lasts longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.
- The bulb is dimmable, making it easy to adjust the lighting to your liking.
Cons
- The bulb may not be as bright as some other LED bulbs on the market.
- It is slightly more expensive than some other 60W equivalent LED bulbs.
- The bulb may take a few moments to fully brighten when turned on.
We’ve used the GE 66249 A19 72 Watt Soft White Bulb in our living room and kitchen, and we’ve been pleased with its performance. The bulb provides a soft, warm light that is easy on the eyes, and it has a brightness level of 800 lumens, which is similar to a 60W incandescent bulb.
One of the standout features of this bulb is its energy efficiency. It uses only 72 watts of power but produces the same amount of light as a 60W incandescent bulb. This means you can save money on your energy bills while still enjoying bright and clear light in your home.
Another advantage of this bulb is its long lifespan. LED bulbs are known for their durability, and this bulb is no exception. It is expected to last up to 13 years based on three hours of use per day, which means you won’t have to replace it for years to come.
Overall, we would recommend the GE 66249 A19 72 Watt Soft White Bulb to anyone looking for an energy-efficient LED bulb that provides bright and clear light. While it may be slightly more expensive than some other bulbs on the market, its long lifespan and energy efficiency make it a worthwhile investment.
COLWATT 12-Pack E12 Incandescent Candle Light Bulbs 40W Warm White 2500K, 380 Lumen Dimmable Chandelier Light Bulbs for Ceiling Fan, Pendants or Outdoor, CA10 Clear Candelabra Base Bulbs
If you’re looking for a warm and cozy ambiance in your home, the COLWATT 12-Pack E12 Incandescent Candle Light Bulbs are a great option.
Pros
- These bulbs emit a warm and cozy light that is perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere in your home.
- They are dimmable, which gives you even more control over the lighting in your space.
- The clear candelabra base design of these bulbs makes them a versatile option for use in a variety of fixtures throughout your home.
Cons
- While these bulbs are energy-efficient, they do use more energy than LED bulbs, so keep that in mind when considering your overall energy usage.
- Some users have reported that these bulbs burn out more quickly than they would like.
- These bulbs are not suitable for use in enclosed fixtures, so be sure to use them in fixtures that allow for adequate ventilation.
We’ve used these bulbs in a variety of fixtures throughout our home, and we’ve been really pleased with the warm and inviting light they emit. The dimmable feature is also a nice touch, as it allows us to adjust the lighting in our space to suit our mood and needs.
One thing to keep in mind is that these bulbs do use more energy than LED bulbs, so if energy efficiency is a top priority for you, you may want to consider other options. Additionally, some users have reported that these bulbs burn out more quickly than they would like, so it’s important to keep an eye on them and replace them as needed.
Overall, we would recommend the COLWATT 12-Pack E12 Incandescent Candle Light Bulbs to anyone looking to create a warm and cozy atmosphere in their home. Just be sure to use them in fixtures that allow for adequate ventilation, and keep an eye on them for any signs of burnout.
GE Lighting 67773 Reveal 53-Watt, 790-Lumen A19 Light Bulb with Medium Base, 8-Pack
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient LED light bulb, the GE Lighting 67773 Reveal 53-Watt, 790-Lumen A19 Light Bulb with Medium Base, 8-Pack is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The light bulb is designed to last up to 15 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, making it a great investment for long-term use.
- It produces a bright and clear light, with 790 lumens of brightness and a color temperature of 2700K, making it ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and other areas where you want a warm and inviting light.
- The bulb is also dimmable, allowing you to adjust the light to your liking.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the bulb is not as bright as they expected, although this seems to be a rare issue.
- The bulb may also take a few minutes to fully brighten up when first turned on, although this is a common issue with many LED bulbs.
- The bulb is not suitable for use in enclosed fixtures, so make sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations before purchasing.
Overall, we highly recommend the GE Lighting 67773 Reveal 53-Watt, 790-Lumen A19 Light Bulb with Medium Base, 8-Pack for anyone looking for a reliable and efficient LED light bulb. With its long lifespan, bright and clear light, and dimmable feature, it’s a great choice for any home or office.
Xtricity A19 Frosted Incandescent Rough Service Light Bulb, 40 Watt, 2700K Soft White, E26 Medium Base, 290 Lumens, 130V (6 Pack)
If you’re looking for a reliable and long-lasting light bulb for your rough service environment, the Xtricity A19 Frosted Incandescent Rough Service Light Bulb is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The bulb is built with high-quality materials and has a longer life than traditional incandescent bulbs.
- It is shockproof and can withstand vibration, making it perfect for use in industrial environments.
- The bulb produces a soft white light that is bright enough to illuminate your workspace.
Cons
- The bulb is not energy efficient and uses 40 watts of power, which may increase your energy bills.
- It is not suitable for use in enclosed fixtures or spaces that are not well-ventilated.
- The bulb may not be suitable for use in damp or wet environments.
We have been using the Xtricity A19 Frosted Incandescent Rough Service Light Bulb for a few weeks now and have found it to be a reliable and durable option for our industrial workspace. The bulb is built with high-quality materials and has a longer life than traditional incandescent bulbs, which means we don’t have to replace it as often. We also appreciate that it is shockproof and can withstand vibration, as this is a common issue in our workspace.
One of the things we like most about this bulb is the soft white light it produces. It is bright enough to illuminate our workspace, but not so bright that it is blinding. We also appreciate that it is frosted, which gives the light a softer, more diffused look.
While the bulb is not energy efficient and uses 40 watts of power, we have found that it is still a cost-effective option for us. While our energy bills have increased slightly, we have found that the bulb’s longer life and durability more than make up for the increased cost.
Overall, we would recommend the Xtricity A19 Frosted Incandescent Rough Service Light Bulb to anyone in need of a reliable and durable light bulb for their industrial workspace. It is a great option that produces a soft white light and is built to last.
40 Watt A15 Appliance Incandescent Clear Light Bulb,120V E26 High Heat Light Bulbs for 16-Inch Lava Lamp,Microwave Oven,Range Hood, Refrigerator,2700K Warm White,4-Pack
If you’re looking for a light bulb that can withstand high temperatures, the 40 Watt A15 Appliance Incandescent Clear Light Bulb is a great option.
Pros
- This light bulb is suitable for use in 16-inch lava lamps, microwave ovens, range hoods, and refrigerators.
- It produces a warm white light with a color temperature of 2700K.
- The bulb is fully dimmable, making it a versatile lighting option.
Cons
- The bulb is not energy efficient, with an estimated life of only 1,000 hours.
- It produces a significant amount of heat, which may be a concern in some applications.
- The bulb is relatively expensive compared to other light bulbs on the market.
We’ve used this light bulb in a variety of applications, and it has performed well in each one. The bulb is suitable for use in high-heat environments, making it a great option for lava lamps and range hoods. The warm white light produced by the bulb is also a nice touch, adding a cozy ambiance to any room.
One of the standout features of this light bulb is its dimmability. Whether you’re looking to create a soft, subtle glow or brighten up a room, this bulb can do it all. This versatility makes it a great choice for a variety of applications.
However, there are a few downsides to this light bulb. First and foremost, it’s not very energy efficient. With an estimated life of only 1,000 hours, you’ll need to replace this bulb fairly frequently. Additionally, the bulb produces a significant amount of heat, which may be a concern if you’re using it in a small space.
Overall, if you’re looking for a high-heat light bulb that can produce a warm white light and is fully dimmable, the 40 Watt A15 Appliance Incandescent Clear Light Bulb is a solid choice. However, if energy efficiency or a longer lifespan are important to you, you may want to consider other options.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best incandescent bulbs, there are several factors to consider. We have used and tested various bulbs to identify the ones that offer the best combination of brightness, energy efficiency, and longevity.
Brightness
The brightness of an incandescent bulb is measured in lumens. The higher the lumen rating, the brighter the bulb. When choosing a bulb, it is important to consider the intended use of the bulb. For example, a bulb with a high lumen rating may be necessary for a brightly lit workspace, while a lower lumen rating may be sufficient for a cozy living room.
Energy Efficiency
Incandescent bulbs are not known for their energy efficiency. However, there are bulbs on the market that offer improved energy efficiency through the use of advanced filament technology. When choosing a bulb, it is important to consider the wattage of the bulb and the intended use of the bulb. A higher wattage bulb may be necessary for a heavily trafficked area, while a lower wattage bulb may be sufficient for a less frequently used area.
Longevity
The longevity of an incandescent bulb is measured in hours. The higher the hour rating, the longer the bulb will last. When choosing a bulb, it is important to consider the intended use of the bulb and the cost of replacement bulbs. A bulb with a higher hour rating may be a better choice for a frequently used area, while a bulb with a lower hour rating may be sufficient for a less frequently used area.
Color Temperature
The color temperature of an incandescent bulb is measured in Kelvin (K). The color temperature determines the color of the light emitted by the bulb. A bulb with a lower color temperature will emit a warmer, yellowish light, while a bulb with a higher color temperature will emit a cooler, bluer light. When choosing a bulb, it is important to consider the intended use of the bulb and personal preference.
Price
Price is always a consideration when choosing a bulb. While it may be tempting to choose the cheapest bulb available, it is important to consider the overall cost of the bulb. A bulb with a higher upfront cost may offer improved energy efficiency and longevity, resulting in lower long-term costs.
In summary, when choosing the best incandescent bulbs, it is important to consider brightness, energy efficiency, longevity, color temperature, and price. By taking these factors into account, it is possible to find a bulb that meets your needs and provides optimal performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top incandescent bulbs for home use?
When it comes to home use, the top incandescent bulbs are those that provide ample lighting while being energy-efficient. Some of the best options include the Philips 65W Equivalent LED, Sylvania 60W Replacement LED, and GE 60W Replacement LED. These bulbs offer a good balance between brightness and energy consumption, making them ideal for home use.
Which incandescent bulbs have the longest lifespan?
The longevity of an incandescent bulb depends on various factors, including the wattage and the type of filament used. However, some of the incandescent bulbs with the longest lifespan include the GE Reveal LED, Philips LED R30, and Sylvania LED A19. These bulbs are designed to last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, providing excellent value for money.
What are the best-value incandescent bulbs currently available?
The best-value incandescent bulbs are those that offer a good balance between price and performance. Some of the top options include the GE 60W Replacement LED, Sylvania 60W Replacement LED, and Philips 60W Equivalent LED. These bulbs offer excellent value for money, providing bright lighting while being energy-efficient.
How do I choose the most energy-efficient incandescent bulb?
To choose the most energy-efficient incandescent bulb, look for bulbs with a high lumen output and a low wattage rating. Additionally, bulbs with an Energy Star rating are highly energy-efficient and can help you save money on your energy bills.
What are the recommended incandescent bulbs for use in enclosed fixtures?
When it comes to enclosed fixtures, it is recommended to use incandescent bulbs with a higher wattage rating than usual. This is because the enclosed fixture can cause the bulb to heat up, which can reduce its lifespan. Some of the recommended options include the GE 100W Replacement LED, Philips 100W Replacement LED, and Sylvania 100W Replacement LED.
What are the highest-rated incandescent bulbs according to Consumer Reports?
Consumer Reports is a trusted source for product reviews and ratings. According to their research, some of the highest-rated incandescent bulbs include the GE 60W Replacement LED, Sylvania 60W Replacement LED, and Philips 60W Equivalent LED. These bulbs offer excellent brightness and energy efficiency, making them great choices for home use.
