10 Best Low Watt LED Bulbs Today Reviewed

Designed to optimize energy efficiency and lower environmental impact, Low Wattage Light Emitting Diode (LED) bulbs are an advantageous choice for effective illumination. Distinguishing the optimal product from a broad array of bulbs can be challenging. This article offers an analytical assessment of the top 10 low wattage LED bulbs in the current marketplace, paired with a detail-oriented buyer's guide and conclusive judgment, providing crucial insight for potential consumers.

Listed below are the best low watt LED bulbs:

• SYLVANIA LEd A19: The SYLVANIA LED A19 Light Bulb stands out for energy efficiency, producing warm light at just 8.5 watts. The downside is its relatively shorter lifespan.
• Philips A19 Frosted: The Philips A19 Frosted LED Bulb excels in delivering comfortably bright light, ideal for ambiance. Its limitation lies in incompatibility with illuminated switches.
• Hudson Flame Effect: Hudson Flame Effect LED Bulb creates a warm, decorative ambiance with a flame-like light effect, counterbalanced by its low lumens output.
• Philips Hue Smart: The Philips Hue Smart A19 Bulb is optimal for smart home integration with an extensive color range, though it may necessitate additional purchases.
• SGLEDS 36W Lights: The SGLEDS lights combine high brightness with an array of security features but are more power-hungry.

1. SYLVANIA General Lighting 74765 A19 LED Light Bulb - Best for Energy Efficiency

The Sylvania 74765 A19 LED Bulb acquires the top position in today’s list. At 8.5 watts, this LED light bulb is one of the most energy-efficient options that are currently available. Its luminous output makes the Sylvania A19 LED Light Bulb a worthy replacement for traditional incandescent bulbs.

To begin with, we were tempted by the positive customer feedback. The 2,700-kelvin color temperature is capable of efficiently emitting a soft, white light that is pleasing to the eyes. Such warmer tones help to relax and therefore are most suitable for bedrooms. However, the Sylvania LED light bulbs are a great choice for practically any room.

In addition, a high CRI score means that the A19 LED light bulbs make the reds, blues, and greens in the house appear more accurate.

We were highly impressed with the effective bulb design. For our 90 minutes usage time, the bulbs lost only about 10 percent of their initial brightness, suggesting their reliable utility in closed spaces where heat tends to get trapped. 

Apart from being energy-saving, these bulbs are also environment-friendly in the sense that there is no UV or IR radiation involved. A shatter-resistant feature prolongs the service life of the A19 LED light bulbs.

As much as our eyes relaxed in the soft, white light of these bulbs, our minds were distressed by the short lifespan of 11,000 hours on 3 hours run-time each day. Also, the A19 bulbs are non-dimmable.

2. Philips LED Non-Dimmable A19 Frosted Light Bulb - Best for Eye Comfort

Phillips is a reputed name in the LED light bulb category, and its A19 Frosted Bulb takes up the second spot. The 16-pack LED light set brightens every corner of the house with its pleasing white light. These energy-saving and eco-friendly bulbs have been designed for the comfort of your eyes.

The faith in Phillips stands justified by its A19 Frosted light bulb range. A proper color temperature takes care of the soft white light that is both comfortable and bright at the same time. We used these light bulbs for room ambiance and specific area lamps and loved their performance for both of our needs.

Much like the Sylvania A19 LED light bulb, the Phillips LED lights also have a high CRI score, thereby emitting crisp and accurate colored light. Each of Phillip’s lights are built to be resistant to flicker, strobe, and glare disturbances, and its A19 LED light bulbs are no exception.

The natural white light output ensures maximum eye comfort. Furthermore, by using only 20% energy of incandescent and halogen lights, the A19 light bulbs produce mercury-free and eco-friendly lighting for optimum clarity. 

The shatter-free plastic construction renders the look and feel of a classic light bulb without compromising on durability. Also, these lights have been designed to be compatible with E26 medium screw bases for convenient fitting.

Surely, we did not face any flickering or glaring of the lights. However, once switched off, they have an illuminating appearance which can be annoying to look at, especially during the night.

3. Hudson Lighting LED Flame Effect Light Bulb - Best for Decorative Ambiance

From the house of Hudson Lighting, the Flame Effect HLFL01 light bulb is perfect for those who are looking to add a touch of decor to the otherwise regular light set-up. These energy-saving LED bulbs are a top-notch product for home refurbishing or seasonal decoration needs.

Without a doubt, the light flame effect of these Hudson Lighting bulbs was the star of the show. The blend of orange and yellow hues seamlessly imitates a flickering flame to induce a warm and cozy ambiance. We used the HLFL101 to recreate the look and feel of an indoor fireplace, and it did not deliver anything less.

Hudson Lighting has done a commendable job to render efficiency to what may seem like simple decoration lights. Firstly, these LED lights consume a nominal 3-watt power, thus making these lights one of the most energy-saving bulbs in the price range. Furthermore, the HLFL101 is equipped with a standard E26 base for easy mounting on frosted lampshades, lanterns, or salt lamps. 

Another striking feature of this flame effect light bulb is that the ‘flame’ automatically switches orientation once the bulb is turned upside down. 

To sum up the entire experience, we will say that this product is quite a bargain!

If you are looking for something that is a little more luminous, the 200-lumen output may not be suitable for your needs. That being said, the low lumen does not affect its flickering simulation.

4. Philips Hue Single Premium A19 Smart Bulb - Best for Smart Home Integration

The fifth place in this list belongs to yet another LED bulb from the Philips A19 range. The Philips Hue Single Premium smart bulb is compatible with almost every smart device out there-from Alexa, Apple Homekit, and Google Home, to Samsung SmartThings, and a lot more. 

Over the years, the Philips Hue products have become quite synonymous with smart light set-ups. The Premium A19 smart LED bulb is sturdy, and reliable and comes with a range of 16 million warm and cool colors, including 50,00 shades of white to choose from. No matter what your desired theme is-be it disco, game room, or a simple relaxing set-up, this smart light can work for all.

Apart from a voice activation feature that allows you to control the lights with any voice-recognition product or software, these A19 smart lights support easy installation for enhanced user convenience. All we had to do was simply screw the bulb base into the desired light location. Additionally, you can also download the Hue app on your smartphone and pair it with Hue Hub for effortless control. 

This bulb comes across as the ultimate ‘smart’ partner for all your ceiling fans, table lamps, and floor lamps for illuminating every part of your space.

In accordance with its name, we had no issues with the premium pricing of the bulb. However, we were required to purchase a separate Hue Bridge to access the full range of hues. Furthermore, you need separate accessories like switches and motion sensors for dimming and motion control, respectively.

5. SGLEDS 36W Dusk to Dawn Security Lights - Best for Security Lighting

The SGLEDS Dusk-to-Dawn lights are the perfect security lighting solution for homes and offices. With a compact and easy-to-install design, this couple of highly luminous motion-detector sturdy lights is meant to be the ultimate replacement for your more traditional and bulky floodlights.

The strong build of these dusk-to-dawn lights assured us of their reliability, especially for the variety of tasks it performs. Its plastic outer covering has an IP65 waterproof rating, thus making this pair suitable for outdoor use. 

Further, the in-built motion sensor technology is accompanied by 4 working modes that make the SGLEDS a true all-rounder. Its test mode allows you to check its efficiency, where the lights, on detecting motion, switch on for about 5 seconds during the day or night. The auto mode, on the other hand, operates the light at night for 1 to 10 minutes, according to a pre-decided time setting.

In addition to the dusk-to-dawn mode, which sets off the light according to the outdoor brightness, there is also an on-time setting, just in case you wish to manually control the lights sans motion sensing. 

The SGLEDS’ motion sensor angle can cover up to 180 degrees, within a maximum distance of 50 feet. All things considered, these dusk-to-dawn LED lights are a cost-effective workhorse.

As compared to the Govee dusk-to-dawn lights, the SGLEDS consume almost four times the power. Having said that, these lights are more versatile than the Govee’s, thus compensating for its high power intake.

6. Peteme Smart LED Light Bulb E26

Halfway through the list and we present another smart LED bulb that comes in a pack of 4. The Peteme Smart LED light bulb is a more affordable and simple alternative for upgrading to or expanding the smart-light set-up of your home.

First and foremost, we liked the number of things that these smart bulbs can do for their affordable price tag. Apart from providing a wide array of colors for selection, each of which is dimmable, these 75-watt equivalent energy-effective smart lamps are easy to install and convenient to use.

Unlike the Philips Hue range, the E26 smart LED bulbs do not require a separate hub or bridge for hands-free control. A downloadable app called ‘Smart Life’ directly connects these bulbs to the existing Wi-Fi network. Furthermore, you can control their operation through various voice-recognition systems. 

The Peteme Smart Led Light Bulb set also enables a switch-on/off schedule through an app called ‘Home Away.’ In addition, there are many other features like the DIY mode, color palette, and sunrise and sunset modes to be explored. We enjoyed the varied light settings that create the perfect ambiance for almost all rooms and occasions.

The Wi-Fi control is indeed a user-friendly way of controlling the lights, but the efficiency of the lights depends on the consistency of the network available. Thus, it may not have an overall uniform performance.

7. AmazonBasics Non-Dimmable A19 LED Light Bulb

The AmazonBasics A19 LED light bulb set of 16 units is next in line for today’s list. Its 1000-lumen output is probably the highest in the price range, emitting a natural daylight glow for optimum illumination. This unit is a cost-effective and energy-saving revamp for your favorite space.

For its humble design and affordable price, the utility of the bulb is worth considering. If you are a fan of a clear, bright day-like light set-up for activities like reading and writing, then AmazonBasics may serve your needs with its A19 range.

Using just 11.5-watt of power, each of the 6 lights is equivalent to a 75-watt traditional incandescent light. This configuration will not only save on your electric bill but will also reduce the unwanted radiation by manifolds. The luminosity of these bulbs makes them a nice pick for your dining hall, kitchen, bathroom, or entertainment space. 

We had a hassle-free fitting experience with the AmazonBasics A19 LED light bulbs. Also, these lights come with a humidity-resistant outer shell to make them sturdy. A long lifespan means that the AmazonBasics save you from frequent replacement costs. Honestly, at the given price, we couldn’t have been more satisfied!

For all its advantages, there is but one big downside. Compared to other A19 LED light bulbs, the AmazonBasics A19 units are larger in size and thus may not be compatible with every light fixture.

8. Luxrite A19 Dimmable LED Light Bulb

The ninth entrant on this list is a pack of 4 Luxrite A19 dimmable bulbs. With a high CRI score for better-looking RGB hues, the Luxrite A19 bulbs are durable and competent to withstand long hours of illumination. Its 2700 kelvin color temperature delivers a soft and eye-soothing white light output.

After testing a lot of both standard and smart non-dimmable LED lights, this dimmable unit was a much-needed breather. At its brightest, the Luxrite A19 radiates 800 lumens of sharp and clear soft white light, equivalent to 60-watt traditional incandescent lights at about 85% less power. Talk about saving on the big bucks!

As much as we were pleased to finally be able to test a dimmable LED light, we were equally impressed with the extent to which the brightness of the Luxrite LED bulbs can be controlled. 

Furthermore, these A19 lights are compatible with a wide range of dimmers. Hence, we did not have to put in any extra effort to find the right brand and model of the dimmer. Along with a quick and easy installation ability, these lights are truly user-friendly. 

There has been no compromise with the quality of the light either, as these flicker-resistant bulbs create a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere.

Similar to the Peteme Smart LED light bulbs, these A19 bulbs also do not appear to be suitable for closed lighting fixtures.

9. Luxon Vintage Style LED Edison Light Bulb

The Luxon Vintage Style LED Edison light bulbs are yet another energy-saving light source that adds value to the interior or exterior decor of your preferred space. Though these bulbs have a retro look, their energy-saving design makes these bulbs a notable name in the modern-day LED bulb category.

Beauty is for admiration, and so is the look of these vintage Edison bulbs. These Luxon bulbs render an old-world charm to your home or office, while simultaneously saving energy consumption and emitting low-heat light for increased productivity.

We totally loved its pleasing, amber-yellow tone that creates a warm and inviting ambiance, perfect for both occasional decor and everyday use. The brightness is just about perfect to illuminate the space, without creating any harsh shadows or flickering. In addition, you can always dim the luminosity as per your preference.

Also, these have a standard base that fits into any E26 or E27 lighting socket for fast and easy installation. 

What gives these bulbs a long service life is their distinctive sturdy gold filament and inert gas filling. This combination works to create a low-pressure state which not only minimizes light decay but also reduces the overall temperature so that the bulbs don't turn dark despite having continuous usage.

The only room for improvement in the otherwise flawless design is its dimming feature, which may not be the smoothest among other similar dimmable LED bulbs. 

10. SGLEDS Enclosed Fixture LED Bulb

The penultimate product on today’s list is a specialized LED bulb from the house of SGLEDS. Its A21 design is specially built for functioning in close light fixtures, with temperatures as high as 150 degrees Celsius. The eco-friendly and power-saving set of four bulbs has a hassle-free installation for wider application.

As the name suggests, this range has been designed for enclosed fixtures, and we were happy with its specialized application. With a high CRI score of 80, these A21 lights are capable of emitting accurate RGB hues for enhanced lighting.

Closed fixture lighting systems have a tendency to emit high heat, and these bulbs are equipped to deliver efficient performance in higher temperatures. The in-built chips with latest LED technology reduce the power and lumens of the bulb, once the temperature in the fixture reaches above a certain level. As a result, these A21 LED bulbs have a longer lifespan as compared to some other models in the same price range. 

On top of everything else, these lights have a typical E26 base that is mountable on all E26 light circuit bases. The hollow rugged housing design, in tandem with its A21 shape makes it a reliable and sturdy choice for illuminating all your enclosed fixtures.

It is important to mention here that closed fixtures, for these lights, are not synonymous to refrigerators as the humid conditions can reduce its lifespan.

What Is the Best Low Watt LED Bulb?

Our analysis of the best low-watt LED bulbs outlines characteristics like product quantity, bulb shape size, bulb base, material, power source, voltage (measured in Volts), wattage (measured in Watts), equivalent incandescent wattage, light color, brightness (measured in Lumens), color temperature (measured in Kelvin), color rendering index, type of control mechanism, dimmability, suitability for indoor or outdoor usage, life span (measured in hours), and warranty period.

Buying Guide For The Best Low Watt LED Bulb

It didn’t take us long to figure out that buying a suitable low-watt LED bulb is not as easy as switching on the lights in our room. 

Though our main criterion was to opt for a low-watt LED bulb, there are a lot of other features that need to be considered before buying one. 

So that you have all the important factors one after the other in a single place, we have this buyers’ guide to help you understand why the said features are important to be considered.

Read on to know more!

Watt

Undeniably, watt consumption is the key factor for choosing the right LED bulb. In general, such bulbs are preferred over and above traditional incandescent or halogen lights due to their low power consumption. However, some LED light bulbs, like those in dusk-to-dawn outdoor lights consume relatively more power due to their flexible utility. 

If additional features like flexibility or motion-sensing are not on your list, we suggest you choose an LED bulb that has low watt consumption. It is also helpful to know here that a lot many LED bulbs perform a variety of tasks while operating on low watts.

Lifespan

Though most LED lights have an average lifespan of 10-20 years, it is useful to note that bulbs that are meant to render some specialized effect or designed for decoration purposes may have a lower service life. If you do not want the hassle of frequent changing and maintenance, we would recommend a more simplistic LED light bulb with a high lifespan.

Color and Tone

The ambiance and look of the space have considerable dependence on the color of the light. In general, the two main colors available for selection are yellow and white. While white LED lights are preferred for a day-like effect, yellow ones are desired to produce a more warm and cozy environment. 

Furthermore, the colors have softer or warmer tones, depending upon their corresponding kelvin temperature. Higher temperatures produce a soft and subtle tone, while lower temperatures have a cooler tone, suitable for work that demands greater alertness.

We suggest a cooler tone for activities like reading, writing, or cooking that require greater attention to detail. On the other hand, warmer tones are preferable for bedrooms or areas dedicated to relaxation.

Dimmable vs. Non-Dimmable

The brightness of the LED bulb depends upon its lumen output. In simpler terms, the high-lumen output will produce a brighter light stream, irrespective of the color. However, if you are not sure about the lumen calculation or want to be able to control the brightness, we recommend investing in a dimmable bulb.

Having said that, dimmers are not generally included in the LED bulb set-up, and need to be purchased separately.

Alternatively, you can choose a non-dimmable LED light bulb if your lighting setup does not require flexibility.

Can low-watt LED bulbs replace any traditional incandescent or compact fluorescent bulb?

Yes, low-watt LED bulbs can effectively replace most incandescent and compact fluorescent bulbs. Check the LED bulb’s equivalent wattage to ensure it will provide the desired brightness.

Are low-watt LED bulbs expensive to purchase?

While low-watt LED bulbs tend to have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional bulbs, they offer substantial long-term savings due to their energy efficiency and longer lifespan.

Are low-watt LED bulbs safe to use?

Yes, low-watt LED bulbs are safe to use. They produce far less heat than traditional light bulbs, reducing the risk of fire hazards and burns.

Do low-watt LED bulbs contain hazardous materials?

No, low-watt LED bulbs do not contain hazardous materials, such as mercury, making them an environmentally friendly choice.

How energy-efficient are low-watt LED bulbs?

Low-watt LED bulbs can be up to 80-90% more energy-efficient compared to traditional incandescent bulbs, consuming less electricity and potentially saving you money on your energy bills.

What types of fixtures can low-watt LED bulbs be used in?

Low-watt LED bulbs are suitable for various fixtures, including table lamps, floor lamps, ceiling lights, wall sconces, outdoor fixtures, and more.

Can low-watt LED bulbs be used with dimmer switches?

Many low-watt LED bulbs are compatible with dimmer switches. Always check the product specifications or consult the manufacturer to ensure compatibility.

Can low-watt LED bulbs be used outdoors?

Yes, but ensure that the low-watt LED bulb you choose is designed for outdoor use or rated for the specific environment where it will be used.

How do I choose the right low-watt LED bulb for my needs?

Consider factors like the desired brightness, color temperature, shape, and size, and make sure the LED bulb’s base matches the fixture socket.

How do I properly dispose of low-watt LED bulbs?

Low-watt LED bulbs contain electronic components and should be recycled or disposed of at a designated e-waste facility.

LED bulbs have come a long way in recent years, becoming more efficient, versatile, and longer lasting. After evaluating and comparing the best low-watt LED bulbs in terms of their energy efficiency, performance, and features, it is clear that these products offer a unique blend of functionality and cost savings.

From the above 10 best low-watt LED bulbs, here are the top three expert recommendations:

For an all-around reliable and energy-efficient bulb, the SYLVANIA General Lighting 74765 A19 LED Light Bulb is an ideal option. With its impressive brightness, energy savings, and suitability for various rooms, this bulb offers superb value for the money.

The Philips LED Non-Dimmable A19 Frosted Light Bulb is a good choice if you're looking for a trusted brand with an affordable price tag. With its pleasing white light output, this bulb works well for room ambiance and specific area lamps. Its high CRI score ensures accurate color rendering, making it an excellent option for any indoor space.

For a unique application and dramatic decorative effect, the Hudson Lighting LED Flame Effect Light Bulb is the right choice. This bulb mimics the flickering of real flames, providing an enchanting ambiance in any room or outdoor setting. Its low-lumen output is perfect for achieving a cozy and warm atmosphere.

Upgrading to low-watt LED bulbs can not only save you money on your energy bills but also enhance the ambiance of your living space. Whether you're looking for general illumination, a particular aesthetic, or energy efficiency, there's an LED bulb out there that will meet your needs.