EcoSmart Soft White (14-watt)
EcoSmart Soft White (14-watt)

Best compact fluorescent light bulbs

*Est. $8 for four
Estimated Price

The EcoSmart light bulb, formerly sold under the N:Vision brand, is one of the top-ranked compact fluorescent light bulbs in comparison reviews, both for reading lamps and general lighting. Its spiral is small, so it fits in most lamps. The 14-watt version emits the equivalent of a 60-watt incandescent light bulb. These compact fluorescent light bulbs are rated to last an average of 10,000 hours, a rating that's been proven in independent lab testing (incandescent bulbs last only about 1,000 hours each). The EcoSmart nine-year warranty is outstanding, as is the company's return policy. A dimmable EcoSmart light bulb is also available for use in medium-base sockets.

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Philips Halogena Energy Saver (70-watt)
Philips Halogena Energy Saver (70-watt)

Dimmable halogen light bulbs

*Est. $12 for two
Estimated Price

Halogen light bulbs turn on instantly and can be used with dimmers, unlike many compact fluorescent light bulbs. While the Philips Halogena bulbs are more efficient and longer lasting (about 3,000 hours) than incandescent bulbs, they aren't as efficient or long-lasting as CFL bulbs (which can last 10,000 hours). Still, reviews recommend halogen bulbs for fixtures that are turned on and off often, because this doesn't shorten their life. Reviewers say that the light quality is pleasing, and that Halogena halogen light bulbs are especially good for task lights and displaying art. These energy-saving halogen light bulbs copy the style of most incandescent bulbs, and they fit medium-base, screw-in light fixtures. They use about 30 percent less energy than an incandescent (so a 70-watt halogen light bulb replaces a 100-watt incandescent).

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