Finding the right lightbulb may not seem like a difficult task on the surface, but you will soon find yourself overwhelmed by choices. Almost every homeware, DIY, and hardware store has a variety of bulbs on offer and many look the same.
The best lightbulb will vary based on what you are looking for, such as brightness, energy efficiency, and controls. Many of the products you will see on the shelves look the same but will have slightly different properties which can make one a better fit than the rest.
When it comes to comparing two very similar lightbulbs, where do you start?
What Are You Looking For?
Lightbulbs come in all shapes and sizes and while you may know what kind you are looking for, there is a lot more to it.
Not only do you have to consider the prongs, size, and type of lightbulb which will be determined by your lighting but other properties can differentiate products too.
When comparing two lightbulbs that are incredibly similar, such as the GY6.35 and the G4, you should also consider:
- Color temperature
- Energy efficiency
- Beam spread
- Voltage
- Application
For example, these two bulbs look very similar on the surface and are designed for the same purpose but they are some key differences that set them apart.
To determine which is the best option, you need to consider everything you require from a lightbulb. The above examples are just some of the things you should consider when comparing two similar types, but they can be a good start.
You must be shopping for the right kind of lightbulb to start with before considering any of the other options, like color temperature and beam spread.
Once you have the basics down, the other properties can be used to narrow down your options further and it can get technical. It is these specs that determine one bulb from another, helping you find the perfect fit.
Why Does It Matter?
If you need a new lightbulb, you could be forgiven for grabbing the first one that looks right from the shelf. But if you have done this before, as many of us, you will know that going in without a plan is not ideal.
While the lightbulb may fit your appliance and get you out of a dark spot for now, if you are wanting longevity, comfortable lighting, and high safety measures then it takes a little more consideration.
With so many products on the shelves, many of which are duplicates of another, you need to take some time to figure out what you need before buying. The kind of prongs and the voltage that a lightbulb has is just one part of the process, and there is a lot more that goes into lighting your home than you realize.
Taking a closer look and comparing some of the more technical features of two very similar products is the way to find the right lightbulb for your needs.
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