The Energy Star-qualified CFLs we tested all did well. But it might take some trial and error to find one you like. Keep these tips in mind when shopping:

Match the bulb to the task. Check the package for details. Generally, spiral fluorescent bulbs are ideal in lamps, pendants, and wall sconces. For recessed fixtures, flood CFLs cast light evenly on your task area. Globes can be used in vanity strips found over bathroom sinks, or in hanging pendant lamps. Don't like the twisted look of some CFLs? Use a covered type, though those take longer to come to full brightness. Some CFLs even have three brightness settings, and others can be used with dimmers.

Look at the lumens. Watts just tell you how much energy the bulb uses; lumens measure the amount of light provided. Check the packaging to find a CFL that delivers as many lumens as the bulb it's replacing and uses the fewest watts.

Choose the color. Energy Star fluorescent bulbs labeled "soft white" or "warm white" are designed to match the light of a typical soft white bulb. Those labeled "bright white," "daylight," or "natural" have a cooler blue color, comparable to a bright white incandescent. Though some colors can appear different under fluorescent light, most of our panelists using soft white fluorescent bulbs didn't notice any change.