With an industrial look and durable design, the modern Edison light bulb is a popular choice when it comes to lighting spaces in the home, whether adorning a bathroom vanity, illuminating a kitchen or setting the mood in a living room.
Inspired by Thomas Edison’s commercial success of the patented light bulb in the late 19th century, Edison light bulbs today feature an internal filament housed within a clear bulb. These Ascher Vintage LED Edison Bulbs are a terrific example of the merging of beauty and functionality. Finding the right Edison light bulb depends on the space and desired ambiance.
What to know before you buy an Edison light bulb
What is an Edison light bulb?
Edison light bulbs sold today are quite different from the ones Edison himself and others crafted in the late 1800s. The original was an incandescent light source that utilized a filament of carbonized bamboo to convert electricity. The filament was visible since the bulb itself was transparent.
The mechanism has changed greatly, but the aesthetic remains the same today. Edison light bulbs feature a retro or vintage aesthetic appealing to many homeowners with a variety of shapes and styles available. As such, Edison light bulb isn’t so much a technical term as it is a marketing phrase.
Uses
Edison light bulbs are used in fixtures where they are easily visible by those in the room. Since their aesthetic is a selling point, the bulbs should not be obscured or covered. They are often paired with complementary fixtures that grab attention and offer as much functionality as they do beauty. Edison light bulbs are frequently used in bathrooms and kitchens but may adorn living rooms, dens and even bedrooms depending on the style and brightness.
Incandescent vs. LED
While the initial Edison light bulb was incandescent, these are increasingly rare today due to their energy inefficiency. They are cheap, but they have a short lifespan and take time to brighten. Some may even feel warm to the touch.
LED bulbs are more common, offering a longer lifespan and better value. They turn on instantly and allow for a variety of designs and shapes to be crafted. Most filaments within LED bulbs are made from tungsten.
Edison light bulb features
Dimmable
Some Edison light bulbs are compatible with dimmers, allowing users more versatility and convenience when deciding where to install them. Purchasing light bulbs incompatible with dimmers will result in a hum or flicker and may damage the bulb.
Color temperature
Mood and ambiance is influenced by the color temperature of a bulb, which runs on a scale from 1,000 kelvins up to 10,000 kelvins. At the far lower end of the spectrum is soft, warm light, such as the glow from a candle.
As you increase along the scale, you move more towards cooler, blue light. Use warm light for cozier, intimate rooms like bedrooms and cool light in bathrooms and kitchens where brightly lighting up a space is important.
Style
Both the shape of the bulb and the design of the filament may vary from product to product. Bulbs may be of the hairpin, tube or globe variety and may or may not have a dimpled or pronounced tip at the end. Other variations on these common shapes may also be available.
The filament meanwhile may be spun into a helix, spiral or even cage design to enhance the aesthetic.
Edison light bulb cost
Most Edison light bulbs come in packs of four or six and cost between $8 and $20. These bulbs may last anywhere from three to seven years.
Edison light bulb FAQ
What’s the difference between watts and lumens?
A. The power of a light bulb is measured in watts. The output of light is measured in lumens. The two do not directly correspond because the type of bulb, incandescent or LED, influences efficiency and therefore light output. It’s advised to employ around 75 lumens per square foot for well-lit areas like kitchens and around 30 lumens per square foot for intimate spaces like bedrooms.
How do I find the right bulb for the socket?
A. For the right fit, match the bulb base to the socket; each base is given a letter and number designation to determine compatibility. Types of bases all start with the letter ‘E,’ and there are only a few different options from which to choose. Though confusing, light bulb shapes are also designated by a number and letter code, but unlike bases, there are plenty of choices offered.
Which Edison light bulb should I get?
Best of the best Edison light bulbs
Ascher Vintage Edison Bulbs: available at Amazon
Our take: Traditionally shaped Edison light bulbs that provide bright white light to beautifully illuminate important spaces.
What we like: Set of six bulbs from a trusted brand. Simple design fits in with any decor. Dims without flicker or hum. Available in other brightnesses.
What we dislike: Rather pricey. Shape isn’t exciting for some.
Best bang for your buck Edison light bulbs
Hudson Bulb Co Edison Light Bulbs: available at Amazon
Our take: Budget-friendly pack of four Edson bulbs that offer handy features and reliability for cozy spaces in the home.
What we like: Provides warm white light to living rooms and other common areas in the home. Long-lasting construction. Compatible with dimmers. Good value.
What we dislike: Lacks exciting shape and design.
Honorable mention Edison light bulbs
Brightown Edison Light Bulb: available at Amazon
Our take: Unique filament design makes these warm, eye-catching Edison bulbs a great addition to intimate spaces.
What we like: Features a spiral filament design and warm, soft glow. Ideal for living rooms and bedrooms. Compatible with most fixtures. Dimmable.
What we dislike: Bulbs are long and wide, which may not fit in certain spaces.
Anthony Marcusa is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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