There are 6 main types of light bulbs that have unique characteristics: LEDs, CFLs, Linear Fluorescents, Incandescents, Halogens and HIDs.
What is the Difference between Bulbs?
- LED = Light-Emitting Diode
- Highly energy-efficient
- Ideal for saving energy and money
- Very long life - can last anywhere from 10 - 36 years depending on lifetime hours
- High-performance technology
- Extremely durable
- Mercury-free
- Best value over the life of the bulb
- Alternative to incandescent, halogen and CFL light bulbs
- Traditional and most-commonly used type of light bulb
- Various specialty and decorative shapes and features
- Mercury-free
- Shortest lifetime of all light bulb types
- White, bright light
- Longer lifetime than incandescent bulbs
- Available in energy-saving Eco-halogen technology
- An energy-saving alternative to incandescent
- Lower initial cost than LEDs or CFLs, but lower long-term savings
- CFL = Compact Fluorescent Lamp
- Energy-efficient
- Ideal for saving energy and money
- Long life - can last up to 9 years
- Contain mercury
- Typical in commercial applications
- Available in energy-saving technology
- Contain mercury
- Long life - some linear fluorescent bulbs last over 10 years
- HID = High Intensity Discharge
- 3 types: Metal Halide, High Pressure Sodium, Mercury Vapor
- Typical in high lumen applications, such as outdoor security lighting, parking lot/parking garage lighting, and roadway lighting
