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Manufacturers of CFLs and LEDs make a lot of promises, from the bulb's brightness and light color, to its lifespan and energy savings. For months our lighting lab has put those claims to the test, and after 3,000 hours of testing, the results of our lightbulb tests are in and have been confirmed by an outside lab.
We tested 26 different CFLs and 10 LED models—a total of 360 bulbs. Many of the problems of earlier CFLs and LEDs have been overcome, and they do last longer and use less electricity than standard incandescent bulbs. In fact, most bulbs met most claims. One LED scored an impressive 98 overall, and all of the LEDs instantly brightened, even at frigid temperatures, and gave off a warm white light.
Shining light in all directions is a big challenge for LEDs, but we found some put light right where you need it. You'll see that in the light-distribution scores we've added to our Ratings. As for CFLs, even though the amount of mercury dropped 60 to 75 percent, compared with the already low levels we found in 2008, performance wasn't affected.
If you're already using CFLs you may be wondering if it makes sense to switch to LEDs. Our Ratings indicate payback time, or how long it takes for a bulb to pay for itself compared to the incandescent it replaces. After that point you're saving money by using less electricity. But as our report says, there may be other reasons to switch. And while some consumers have complained that the latest lightbulbs should come with an owner's manual and free tech support, our report is loaded with helpful tips. If you have more questions, post them here and one of our lightbulb experts will answer them.
—Kimberly Janeway
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