Philips Halogena Energy Saver (70-watt)

Halogen light bulbs offer a midpoint in energy efficiency between compact fluorescents and regular incandescent bulbs. A halogen bulb's advantages over a compact fluorescent are that it instantly reaches peak brightness, it can be used with dimmers, its life isn't affected by frequent on-off activity and it contains no mercury. A 2008 testing of 21 energy-efficient light bulbs by The New York Times rates the Philips Halogena as best, saying the brightness is "warmer" than an incandescent bulb. Its pear shape is similar to that of incandescent bulbs, so lampshades can clip to it. The Philips Halogena fits most medium-base fixtures and has a life expectancy of two years assuming four hours' use per day. The 70-watt Philips Halogena Energy Saver puts out about as much light as a 100-watt bulb. A 40-watt version (*Est. $17 for two) is also available; it puts out as much light as a 60-watt bulb. If you are seeking the best energy efficiency, you'll want a compact fluorescent bulb, and reviews favor the EcoSmart (formerly N:Vision) Soft White (*Est. $8 for four).

The New York Times includes the Philips Halogena light bulb in its test of 21 bulbs. We found a helpful but less comparative review at Shahine.com. A few owners on Amazon.com give the Philips Halogena high ratings, noting that the light is less harsh than that of CFL bulbs.