What Are The Different Types Of LED Lightbulbs?
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It has been years since Edison gave us the incandescent light bulb. But we, of course, wanted better, which gave rise to the LED (Light Emitting Diode) light bulb. LEDs are semiconductors that allow electricity to flow through them, in turn producing light. These bulbs are much more compact, energy-efficient, and advanced than Edison's brainchild.
Today, we are going to consider the LED light bulb options that are available to you. EarthLED writes that the LED light bulb you choose should depend on the function of the room in question. You would likely agree that some rooms require more or less lighting than others (take, for instance, the differences in lighting needs for your study vs. your bedroom). Since lighting is pivotal to your home, we curated a list of the different kinds of bulbs available. If you want to derive value for your money by getting the right LED light bulb for each room in your home, keep reading.
1. Miniature LED light bulbs
Miniature LED light bulbs are just what they sound like: a small version of an LED bulb. This is the kind of LED light you find in phones or even remote controls.
Home Stratosphere writes that these miniature light bulbs vary in terms of voltage but are sold in standard, low-current, and ultra-high output. They usually come in groups of stringed lights (picture the kind you can wrap around a tree or hang on your walls) and are perfect for night lights, lounge lights, and as a general alternative to regular bright light in any room.
2. LED filament bulbs
LED filament bulbs are the ideal choice for anyone into vintage home decor. They let off a golden glow reminiscent of the original Edison invention instead of the typical bright white light of modern bulbs. Even better, they consume less energy than their fluorescent and incandescent counterparts, which saves you money on your monthly electric bill.
Furthermore, LED Hut claims that these filament LED bulbs come in all sizes and shapes, including in the form of globes, golf balls, candles, teardrops, and even the standard bulb shape. You have a plethora to pick from, so go wild!
3. LED smart bulbs
Can you imagine getting into bed and realizing you still haven't turned off the lights? With LED smart light bulbs, you can control all the light fixtures in your home right from an app on your smartphone, says Home Depot, meaning you won't have to get back up to turn them off.
Wired writes that you can also set timers and flip through various colors with the smartphone app, making this type of bulb perfect for a modern home. One of the site's top picks for LED smart bulbs is the Cync Full Color Direct Connect Smart Bulb, which retails for just $13 on Amazon.
4. High-power LED
LED light bulbs did not originally have high voltage like halogen, incandescent, and even fluorescent lights. However, due to consumer demand, companies now manufacture high-power LED bulbs. Home Stratosphere writes that these lights produce a greater number of lumens but still vary in terms of their voltage, luminosity, and wavelength. While they tend to overheat because of these characteristics, this can be controlled with the attachment of a heat-absorbing material.
Reactual's pick for the top high-powered LED light bulb is the Philips 5000 Lumen LED Bulb. It can be found on Amazon for $20 for a four-pack.
5. Candelabra LED light bulbs
While incandescent bulbs are typically used in chandeliers, they aren't the best choice given their short lifespan, says CNET. Candelabra LED light bulbs are much better because they last longer and use less energy.
Switching to LED doesn't mean you have to give up the soft glow of incandescent bulbs. Bulb America has a wide array of candelabra filament LED light bulbs to choose from that will provide the same effect. According to pricing done by the Chicago Tribune, you can expect to pay around $4 for non-dimmable LED candelabra light bulbs and anywhere from $18 to $30 for dimmable ones.
6. Globe LED light bulbs
These globe LED light bulbs are shaped just like incandescent light bulbs. You can barely tell the difference between them until, of course, the bills arrive and your electricity costs are significantly lower. Unlike incandescent light bulbs, these LED globe bulbs use less energy, claims Home Stratosphere. They also come in various colors.
Another reason you should consider globe LED light bulbs is because they do not blind you with bright light, points out GE Lighting. They are a great option for bathroom vanities and home offices.
7. LED panel
LED panels are typically found in commercial buildings, rather than in homes. However, there has been a recent trend toward incorporating these lights into the residential environment. They come in round, square, and rectangle panels that are erected on the ceilings or walls of a room. They are also called shop lights, and Wave Form Lighting certifies them to be great for your at-home workspace.
HomElectrical lists several benefits of these LED panels. They are beautiful, modern, dimmable, durable, and environmentally friendly. That being said, a couple cons include their large size and lower light output.
8. Golf ball LED light bulbs
Seeking a replacement for all your halogen and incandescent light fixtures? Golf ball LED light bulbs should be your go-to option. Eastar Lighting writes that this light bulb has a lifespan of about 25 years and offers around 50,000 hours of use. This ensures that you save up to 90% on lighting costs.
Even better, these LED lights come in multiple finishes, including clear, milk, matte pearl, and more. If your home's interior is centered around a calm, warm ambiance, this is the ideal choice for you.