Warm White C9 LED Bulbs vs Clear Incandescent C9 Bulbs
How do those warm white lights compare to my traditional C9's?
Are those LED lights just as bright?
Here are a few photos to help you answer that question as you are finalizing your Christmas display plans!
First, take a look at this studio photo of a warm white C9 LED bulb and a traditional 7-watt incandescent C9 bulb so you'll have a close-up idea of what these bulbs look like.
I've used an exposure that blasts the camera a bit but this is what my eye is seeing here in the dark. (Note, we aren't using Pure White, it is equivalently bright as the warm white and has a pure, crystal color. We'll share a comparison of pure and warm in our next post.)
Here is a shot of 12 LED and 12 glass bulbs in a row. The LED bulbs on the left are SMD style. Read more about SMD LED bulbs here.
What's your favorite in this photo?
Here is a shot from the middle of the yard. Notice how the colors compare.
And from the yard next door....
Not the absolute best photo in the world below, but here is a shot from under a street lamp across the street. You can really see the throw of the light. I can't wait to get the rest of the house done. Fingers crossed we finish before Thanksgiving.
We'll be quite blinding no matter which bulb we choose!
Aside from appearance, there are a few pros and cons to consider when choosing between the bulbs.
C9 LED Bulbs
Pros
- Durable Polycarbonate
- Color goes through the entire lens (for non-white bulbs)
- Up to 90% energy savings over traditional bulbs
Cons
- Not the same bulbs we grew up with
- Price
- Susceptible to surges on electrical line (so use a surge protector)
Traditional Incandescent Bulbs
Pros
- Great price point
- Traditional King of Christmas light bulbs
- Matches traditional mini lights
Cons
- Breakable
- Can require more electrical service
What is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
(And thanks to Dave for all the late night lights installation and reconfiguration!!)