Warm White C9 LED Bulbs vs Clear Incandescent C9 Bulbs

warm white c9 led or incandescent

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!!)