Best Compact Fluorescent Bulbs of 2025

Howard Chester Avatar
Howard Chester
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Compact fluorescent bulbs, also known as CFLs, are energy-efficient light bulbs that have become increasingly popular in recent years. These bulbs use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last up to 10 times longer. CFLs also emit less heat, making them safer to use and reducing the need for air conditioning. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be used in any fixture that is designed for incandescent bulbs. While they may be slightly more expensive than traditional bulbs, their long lifespan and energy savings make them a smart investment for any household.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Sylvania 13W CFL T2 Spiral Light Bulb, 60W Equivalent (8-Pack) Cover #TOP 1
Sylvania 13W CFL T2 Spiral Light Bulb, 60W Equivalent (8-Pack)
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Xtricity Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb T2 Spiral CFL Cover #TOP 2
Xtricity Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb T2 Spiral CFL
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Philips LED 417063 Energy Saver Compact Fluorescent T2 Mini-Twister Cover #TOP 3
Philips LED 417063 Energy Saver Compact Fluorescent T2 Mini-Twister
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Compact Fluorescent Bulbs

#TOP 1

Sylvania 13W CFL T2 Spiral Light Bulb, 60W Equivalent (8-Pack)

SY26361
Soft White
8 Count (Pack of 1)
Sylvania 13W CFL T2 Spiral Light Bulb, 60W Equivalent (8-Pack) Cover
Sylvania CFL T2 Twist Light Bulb, 60W Equivalent, Efficient 13W, 850 Lumens, Medium Base, 2700K, Soft White - 8 Pack (26363)

The Sylvania 13W CFL T2 Spiral Light Bulb is designed to save energy and money, while providing bright and warm light. This 8-pack of daylight twist bulbs produces 850 lumens and has a soft white color temperature of 2700K, making it ideal for indoor use. With a lifetime of 10,000 hours, you can enjoy long-lasting performance. Additionally, by using this bulb, you can save up to 78% compared to a similar lumen output incandescent bulb, resulting in an estimated cost of only $1.57 per year.

What We Like
Reliable performance
Long-lasting bulbs
Good brightness level
Smaller size fits well
Gradual brightness increase
What We Don't Like
Inconsistent quality reported
Some bulbs arrived damaged
#TOP 2

Xtricity Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb T2 Spiral CFL

1-60222
23w (Daylight)
8 Pack
Xtricity Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb T2 Spiral CFL Cover
Xtricity Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs T2 Spiral, E26 Base, 23W (100W Equivalent), 5000k Daylight, 1520 Lumens, CFL, 120V - UL Listed, (8 Pack)

The Xtricity Compact Fluorescent Light Bulb T2 Spiral CFL is a 100-watt replacement that uses only 23-watts and emits 1520 lumens of light output. It features a mini spiral T2 design, emits a daylight colored light, and is instant-on and flicker free. It is ideal for use in desk and table lamps, wall sconces, ceiling mounted fixtures, and ceiling fans, and is perfect for residential or commercial use. It is RoHS compliant and consumes 75% less energy than incandescent and halogen light bulbs.

What We Like
Bright, non-harsh light
Energy-saving
Long-lasting
Small size
Cost-effective for multiple bulbs
What We Don't Like
Higher price for some options
#TOP 3

Philips LED 417063 Energy Saver Compact Fluorescent T2 Mini-Twister

417063
Soft White
4 Count (Pack of 1)
Philips LED 417063 Energy Saver Compact Fluorescent T2 Mini-Twister Cover
Philips LED 417063 Energy Saver Compact Fluorescent T2 Mini-Twister (A19 Replacement) Household Light Bulb: 2700-Kelvin, 9-Watt (40-Watt Equivalent), E26 Medium Screw Base, Soft White, 4-Pack

The Philips LED 417063 Energy Saver Compact Fluorescent T2 Mini-Twister is a 40-watt equivalent bulb that turns on softly and warms to its full brightness in seconds, creating a relaxing and comfortable environment. Ideal for use with table lamps or in kitchens, living rooms, and hallways, this 2700-Kelvin bulb has a soft white color and features a Medium Screw base. Energy Star-certified with a $1.57 estimated annual energy cost, this bulb is perfect for creating an inviting atmosphere around the home.

What We Like
Perfect for various fixtures
Good price
Sturdy and long-lasting
Bright and efficient light
What We Don't Like
One bulb arrived broken
Somewhat difficult to find
#TOP 4

Feit Electric GU24 CFL Bulb

BPESL13T/GU24
Soft White
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Feit Electric GU24 CFL Bulb Cover
Feit Electric BPESL13T/GU24 60-Watt Equivalent GU24 CFL Bulb

The Feit Electric BPESL13T/GU24 60-Watt Equivalent GU24 CFL Bulb is an energy-efficient replacement for a 60-Watt incandescent bulb. With a CFL mini twist design and a GU24 base, it is easy to install and use in compact fluorescent fixtures. Made in Canada, it is a reliable and sustainable choice for lighting up your home or office.

What We Like
Easy to assemble
Bright white light
Long-lasting performance
Good replacement for old bulbs
Soft light, not harsh
What We Don't Like
Low lighting quality
Minimal packaging protection
#TOP 5

SLEEKLIGHTING 13W T2 Spiral CFL GU24 2-prong Bulb 4pk

18777
2700k
4 Count (Pack of 1)
SLEEKLIGHTING 13W T2 Spiral CFL GU24 2-prong Bulb 4pk Cover
SLEEKLIGHTING 13Watt T2 Spiral CFL GU24 2 Prong Light Bulb Base 2700K 900lm -UL Approved 120v 60Hz Light Bulb- Mini Twist Lock Spiral -Self Ballasted Compact Fluorescent -Warm White Light 4pack

SLEEKLIGHTING GU24 Spiral Bulb is a pack of 4 compact fluorescent bulbs that use a GU24 Twist and Lock base. It provides warm white light with 2700K and 900 lumens, while only using 13W. With the UL approval, it can save up to 70% on your electricity bill. It has a life span of 10,000 hours, which is ideal for use in various places such as the kitchen, living room, bedroom, ceiling, office, floor lamps, hallways, bathrooms, sconces, and pendent lighting. Plus, with the NO-HASSLE FREE-REPLACEMENT GUARANTEE for 6 months, you can use it without worry.

What We Like
Good price
Bright light output
Easy installation
Energy efficient
Difficult to find
What We Don't Like
Fragile design
Cooler light than expected
#TOP 6

Feit Electric Quad Tube CFL Light Bulb

PLF65/65
No Color
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Feit Electric Quad Tube CFL Light Bulb Cover
Feit Electric CFL Quad Tube Light Bulb, 300W Equivalent, E26 Base with Mogul Base Adapter, 65-Watt CFL Light Bulb for Residential & Commercial Use, 6500K Daylight, 10,000-Hour Lifespan, PLF65/65/G2

The Feit Electric CFL Light Bulb is a non-dimmable 65 Watt light bulb that provides an equivalent of 300 Watt standard incandescent light bulb. It comes with an E26 to E39 base adapter and is suitable for use in recessed fixtures, outdoor fixtures, high bay lamps and general purpose uses. This energy-efficient bulb uses up to 78% less energy than your standard incandescent replacement and provides a brightness of 4550 Lumens. Please note that it requires an internal ballasted fixture to operate.

What We Like
Long-lasting performance
Bright lighting output
Solid construction quality
Good fit with tools
What We Don't Like
Some defects reported
Inconsistent performance
#TOP 7

KOR 13W Mini Spiral CFL Light Bulb

KOR
K21044-4
4 Count (Pack of 1)
KOR 13W Mini Spiral CFL Light Bulb Cover
(4 Pack) 13 Watt Mini Spiral - GU24 Base - (60W Equivalent) - T2 Mini-Twist - CFL Light Bulb (Bright White (5000K), CFL)

The KOR Mini Spiral CFL Bulb is an energy-saving light bulb that provides 800 lumens of bright white light while using only 13 watts of power. With its easy installation, you can simply push it into your existing GU24 socket and twist it to secure it in place. This makes it a hassle-free replacement for your twist and lock fixtures. The 5000K color temperature creates a bright and daylight ambiance, making it ideal for use in various areas of your home such as the kitchen, living room, bedroom, and bathroom. The bulb is also durable and rated for 10,000 hours, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and replacements. If you're not satisfied with your purchase, the customer service team offers hassle-free replacements or refunds.

What We Like
Quick delivery
Easy installation
Good brightness
Compatible with previous bulbs
Great price for quantity
What We Don't Like
Somewhat pricey
Not bright enough for large rooms
#TOP 8

UNITEDLUX E26 Spiral CFL Light Bulbs 13W (3 Pack)

Soft White
UNITEDLUX E26 Spiral CFL Light Bulbs 13W (3 Pack) Cover
UNITEDLUX E26 Spiral CFL Light Bulbs Medium Base 13Watt (60Watt Equivalent) Soft White 2700K, 1040Lm Non-dimmable Compact Fluorescent Light, (3 Pack)

The UNITEDLUX E26 Spiral CFL Light Bulbs are a set of 3 energy-efficient, RoHS compliant bulbs that provide a soft and warm light perfect for illuminating small and large areas. With a lifespan of 15,000 hours and a 60W equivalent using only 13W, these bulbs are ideal for kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms, garages, and more. They have a simple installation process and come with a 180-day free replacement guarantee.

What We Like
Energy-efficient lighting solution
High lumen output
Easy to install
Quick delivery
Bright from the start
What We Don't Like
Some bulbs burned out quickly
One bulb arrived broken
#TOP 9

EcoSmart 60-Watt Equivalent Daylight Spiral CFL Light Bulb (4-Pack)

FBA_S504PK
White
4 Count (Pack of 1)
EcoSmart 60-Watt Equivalent Daylight Spiral CFL Light Bulb (4-Pack) Cover
EcoSmart 60-Watt Equivalent Daylight (5000K) Spiral CFL Light Bulb (4-Pack)

The EcoSmart Daylight CFL Bulb is a 60-watt equivalent spiral light bulb that comes in a convenient 4-pack. With its full spectrum bulb color, this compact fluorescent bulb provides a natural and bright daylight illumination of 5000K. The spiral shape of the bulb allows for a compact design, making it easy to fit into various light fixtures. The EcoSmart brand ensures high-quality and energy-efficient lighting solutions. This bulb is perfect for creating a well-lit environment in your home or office, enhancing visibility and reducing eye strain. With its long lifespan and energy-saving features, the EcoSmart Daylight CFL Bulb is a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice for your lighting needs.

What We Like
Bright light
Easy installation
Attractive design
True white light
Perfect fit
What We Don't Like
Online purchase required
#TOP 10

ephotoinc 60W CFL Grow Light Bulb

60Watt
ephotoinc 60W CFL Grow Light Bulb Cover
Hydroponic Full Spectrum CFL Grow Light Bulb 60 Watt Bulb 5500K H60

The ephotoinc Grow Light Bulb is designed to provide optimal lighting for your hydroponic plants. With a color temperature of 5500K, it mimics natural daylight, promoting healthy growth. This 60-watt CFL bulb is equivalent to a 250-watt incandescent bulb, offering energy efficiency without sacrificing brightness. Its full spectrum capabilities ensure that all stages of plant growth receive the light they need, making it a great choice for indoor gardeners. Enjoy the convenience of a brand new bulb that supports your gardening efforts effectively.

What We Like
Effective full spectrum light
Low heat emission
Energy efficient
Fits standard sockets
Improves plant growth
What We Don't Like
Bulbs may burn out
Potential mounting issues
Buying Guide Image

A Buyer's Guide to Compact Fluorescent Bulbs

Understanding Compact Fluorescent Bulbs

Compact fluorescent bulbs, also known as CFLs, are a popular and energy-efficient alternative to traditional incandescent bulbs. But with so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know which CFL is right for your needs. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a CFL.

Lumens, Not Watts

When shopping for a light bulb, it's tempting to look at the wattage to determine how bright it will be. However, wattage is actually a measure of how much energy a bulb uses, not how much light it produces. Instead, you should look at the lumens rating, which tells you how much light the bulb will produce. A higher lumens rating means a brighter light, while a lower rating means a dimmer light.

Color Temperature

CFLs are available in a range of color temperatures, which refers to the appearance of the light they produce. Warm white light, which has a color temperature of 2700-3000K, is similar to the light produced by incandescent bulbs. It's a cozy, inviting light that's well-suited to living rooms and bedrooms. On the other hand, daylight white light, which has a color temperature of 5000-6500K, is a bright, crisp light that's great for tasks like reading and cooking.

Shape and Size

CFLs come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and it's important to choose the right one for your fixtures. Standard-shaped CFLs are a good choice for table lamps and other fixtures with visible bulbs. Spiral-shaped CFLs, on the other hand, are a good choice for fixtures where the bulb is hidden, such as ceiling fans and recessed lighting. It's also important to choose the right size bulb for your fixtures, as using a bulb that's too big or too small can cause it to overheat or not fit properly.

Energy Efficiency

CFLs are known for their energy efficiency, and they can save you a significant amount of money on your energy bills compared to incandescent bulbs. When shopping for a CFL, look for the Energy Star label, which indicates that the bulb meets strict energy-efficiency standards. You can also compare the bulb's lumens per watt rating, which tells you how much light the bulb produces compared to how much energy it uses.

Conclusion

Choosing the right CFL can be a daunting task, but by understanding lumens, color temperature, shape and size, and energy efficiency, you can find the perfect bulb for your needs. With a little bit of research, you can save energy and money while enjoying beautiful, efficient lighting in your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are compact fluorescent bulbs being phased out?

Yes, T5 and T8 fluorescent bulbs, as well as compact fluorescent bulbs, are currently being phased out.

2. Is CFL better than LED?

No, LED bulbs are more efficient than CFLs. A 16.5-watt LED bulb is equivalent to a 20-watt CFL and a 75-watt incandescent bulb. LEDs offer better energy efficiency and longer lifespan compared to CFL bulbs.

3. Should I replace compact fluorescent with LED?

Yes, it is recommended to replace compact fluorescent bulbs with LED bulbs. LED bulbs have a longer lifespan, lasting over 25,000 hours compared to the average 8,000 hours for CFL bulbs. LEDs are also more energy-efficient and provide better lighting quality.

4. Can you replace compact fluorescent bulbs with LED?

Yes, it is possible to replace compact fluorescent bulbs with LED bulbs. This can be done by using a retrofit kit or an LED light engine. Another option is to remove the ballast and socket in the fixture and wire in an LED driver and board. It's important to ensure compatibility and choose the right size retrofit kit or light engine.

5. What are the disadvantages of CFL bulbs?

Some disadvantages of compact fluorescent bulbs include being cold temperature sensitive, not recommended for enclosed fixtures, higher initial cost compared to incandescent bulbs, longer warm-up time, limited color temperature options, less smooth dimming, and decreased performance when dimmed.

6. Which is brighter LED or CFL bulbs?

LED bulbs are generally brighter than CFL bulbs, especially when placed in fixtures designed for directional lighting. CFL bulbs waste close to half of the light they produce when placed in recessed fixtures, while LEDs utilize all of their light output efficiently.

Editor's Notes

During our compact fluorescent bulb research, we found 24 compact fluorescent bulb products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 145,702 customer reviews through our big data system to write the compact fluorescent bulbs list. We found that most customers choose compact fluorescent bulbs with an average price of $20.42.

The compact fluorescent bulbs are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of compact fluorescent bulbs, including LEDVANCE, Xtricity, PHILIPS, Feit Electric, SLEEKLIGHTING. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 80 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Howard Chester Avatar

Howard Chester is an architect from New York who holds a master's degree in architectural design, his passions for interior design and home improvement contribute to his extensive knowledge of all things furniture and home goods. Howard Chester Specializes in various architectural and interior design projects. He often publishes articles related to decoration on key websites and interior design magazines.

Compact Fluorescent Bulbs Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand LEDVANCE Xtricity PHILIPS Feit Electric SLEEKLIGHTING Feit Electric KOR UNITEDLUX EcoSmart ephotoinc
Light Type Fluorescent CFL LED CFL CFL CFL CFL CFL CFL CFL
Special Feature Not Dimmable Instant On, Not Dimmable Not Dimmable, Needs recycling, Compact Uses up to 78% less energy, RoHS Compliant Energy Efficient Non Dimmable, Energy Efficient Energy Saving, Easy Installation Non-dimmable Full Spectrum full-spectrum
Wattage 13 watts 23 watts 9 watts 13 watts 13 65 watts 13 watts 13 watts 60 watts 60 watts
Bulb Shape Size T2 T2 A19 A15 T2 E25 T2 C15 - -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.0
ftb score rating icon 9.0
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