After running Dev Electricals in Kolkata for years, I’ve helped thousands of customers pick the right bulb for their homes. And let me tell you, choosing the right light bulb is not just about brightness. It affects your electricity bill, the mood of your rooms, and even how long you’ll need to climb a ladder to replace them.

Most people walk into our shop confused about which bulb to buy. Should you go for LED? Is CFL still good? What about those fancy smart types of bulbs everyone talks about? Don’t worry. I’ll break it all down in simple words.

In India, we have so many options now compared to ten years ago. The old yellow types of bulbs our parents used are almost gone. Today, we have energy saving bulbs, colour changing bulbs, and types of bulbs you can control from your phone. Let me guide you through everything you need to know.

7 Types of Bulbs Commonly Used in India

1. LED Types of Bulbs (Light Emitting Diode)

LED bulbs are the king of lighting right now. At our store, 7 out of 10 customers buy LED bulbs these days. Why? Because they save electricity like crazy and last for years.

I always tell my customers this. If you use a 9 watt LED bulb, it gives the same light as an old 60 watt yellow bulb. Imagine how much you save on your electricity bill every month. Plus, LED bulbs last 15,000 to 50,000 hours. That means you might not change a bulb for 5 to 10 years.

LED bulbs work in every room. Living room, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, balcony. You name it, LED fits there. They don’t heat up much, they switch on instantly, and you get them in warm white, cool white, or daylight options. At Dev Electricals, we stock brands like Philips, Wipro, Syska, and Bajaj.

The only thing people complain about is the price. Yes, LED bulbs cost more upfront. But trust me, you recover that money in 6 to 12 months through lower electricity bills.

2. CFL Types of Bulbs (Compact Fluorescent Lamps)

CFL bulbs were very popular 5 to 10 years ago. They are those spiral shaped types of bulbs you still see in many Indian homes. CFL bulbs use 70% less energy than old incandescent bulbs, which is pretty good.

But here’s the thing. CFL bulbs are slowly losing their charm. Why? Because LED bulbs have become cheaper and better. CFL takes 30 seconds to reach full brightness, especially in winter. Nobody likes that anymore.

Also, CFL bulbs contain a tiny bit of mercury inside. So if one breaks, you need to be careful while cleaning. Still, if you’re on a tight budget, CFL is an okay option for general lighting in your home.

We still keep CFL bulbs at Dev Electricals because some customers prefer them. They cost less than LED and give decent light for hallways, store rooms, and garages.

3. Incandescent Types of Bulbs

These are the traditional yellow types of bulbs with a wire filament inside. Your grandparents probably used them. I’ll be honest with you. These bulbs are outdated now. They eat up electricity, last only 1,000 hours, and 90% of their energy becomes heat instead of light.

The only reason people still buy them is for the warm, cozy glow. Some people love that old school yellow light for their bedroom or dining area. But from a shopkeeper’s point of view, I don’t recommend them. Your electricity bill will cry.

If you really want that warm glow, go for LED bulbs with warm white colour temperature instead. You’ll get the same feel without wasting power.

4. Halogen Types of Bulbs

Halogen bulbs are a better version of incandescent bulbs. They give bright white light, last longer, and use slightly less energy. We use halogen bulbs for spotlights, reading lamps, and focused lighting.

These bulbs are perfect if you want crisp, white light for your study table, kitchen counter, or artwork display. They make colours look natural and bright. That’s why jewellery shops and showrooms use halogen spotlights.

But again, LED spotlights have become so good now that halogen is losing the race. LED spotlights don’t heat up, last longer, and save more electricity. Still, halogen has its fans, especially in luxury homes and hotels.

5. Smart Types of Bulbs

Smart bulbs are the new cool kids on the block. These Wi-Fi enabled bulbs connect to your phone or Alexa or Google Assistant. You can change colours, set schedules, dim them, or turn them off from anywhere.

I’ve installed smart bulbs in my own living room, and my kids love it. Birthday party? Set it to red and blue. Movie night? Dim it to 20%. Going on vacation? Schedule them to turn on at 7 pm so it looks like someone’s home.

Smart types of bulbs cost more than regular LED, around 500 to 2000 rupees depending on features. But if you love technology and want a modern smart home, they’re worth it. Brands like Philips Hue, Wipro Smart, and Syska Smart are popular in India.

One small tip. Make sure your home has good Wi-Fi before buying smart bulbs. Without proper internet, they’re just expensive LED bulbs.

6. Tube Lights (LED Tube or Fluorescent Tube)

Tube lights are everywhere in Indian homes. Long, straight tubes that give bright light for big rooms, kitchens, and offices. We’ve been using them for decades.

Earlier, we had fluorescent tube lights with a choke and starter. They made that annoying flickering sound. Now, LED tube lights have taken over. They’re much better, use 50% less power, last longer, and switch on instantly without any flicker.

LED tube lights come in 2 feet and 4 feet sizes. The 4 feet tube is perfect for living rooms, and the 2 feet one works great for bathrooms and small kitchens. At Dev Electricals, we help customers replace old fluorescent tubes with LED tubes. It’s a simple swap that saves a lot of money.

7. Decorative and Filament Types of Bulbs

These types of bulbs are all about style. Think of those vintage Edison bulbs with visible wire filaments inside. Or globe shaped bulbs for chandeliers. Or candle shaped bulbs for wall lamps.

Decorative bulbs don’t give very bright light. They’re more for ambiance and beauty. People use them in their dining area, bedroom lamps, living room corners, or outdoor patio lights. They look stunning, especially in modern and vintage style homes.

The good news is that LED versions of decorative bulbs are now available. So you can have that classy filament look without wasting electricity. We stock a nice range of decorative lighting at Dev Electricals for customers who want something special.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Light Bulb for Your Home

Brightness and Lumens

Many people still ask me “What watt bulb should I buy?” But here’s the catch. Wattage is not brightness anymore. Wattage is power consumption. Brightness is measured in lumens.

Let me explain. A 9 watt LED gives 800 to 900 lumens. An old 60 watt incandescent also gives 800 lumens. Same brightness, but LED uses only 9 watts. See the difference?

For a small bedroom, 400 to 600 lumens is enough. For a living room, go for 1500 to 3000 lumens. For a kitchen, 3000 to 4000 lumens works well. The higher the lumens, the brighter the light.

Don’t buy super bright types of bulbs for your bedroom. You’ll feel like you’re in a hospital. And don’t buy dim bulbs for your kitchen. You need good light for cooking.

Wattage and Energy Efficiency

Even though wattage is not brightness, it still matters. It tells you how much electricity the bulb will eat. Lower wattage means lower electricity bill.

An LED bulb uses 8 to 12 watts for the same light that a CFL gives in 15 to 20 watts. And an old incandescent bulb needs 60 watts for that. The choice is clear. LED is the most energy efficient.

Always check the power rating on the box before buying. At Dev Electricals, I show customers the energy saving calculations. Most people are shocked to see how much they can save by switching to LED.

If you replace 10 old bulbs with LED, you can save 500 to 800 rupees per month on your electricity bill. That’s 6,000 to 10,000 rupees per year. Big savings for a regular middle class family.

Color Temperature (Warm vs Cool Light)

This is where people get confused. They buy the right wattage but hate the colour of the light. Then they blame the bulb.

Colour temperature is measured in Kelvin. Don’t worry, I’ll keep it simple.

Warm white is 2700K to 3000K. This is a yellowish light, cozy and relaxing. Perfect for bedroom, living room, and dining area. It feels like the old bulb light.

Cool white is 4000K to 4500K. This is pure white light, neutral and bright. Good for kitchens, bathrooms, and offices. It helps you see things clearly.

Daylight is 5000K to 6500K. This is bluish white light, very bright like afternoon sunlight. Best for garages, outdoor areas, and work spaces. But it can feel too harsh for bedrooms.

I always ask my customers where they’ll use the bulb. Then I suggest the right colour temperature. Most people want warm white for their home and cool white for kitchen and bathroom.

Room Function and Design Style

Different rooms need different lighting. Let me share my experience.

Living room needs medium bright light with warm colour. You want it cozy for family time and bright enough to read or watch TV. I suggest 12 to 15 watt LED bulbs.

Bedroom needs soft, warm light. Avoid bright or cool white light here. It disturbs your sleep. Go for 7 to 9 watt warm white LED.

Kitchen needs very bright, cool white light. You’re cutting vegetables, cooking food, and cleaning. Good lighting is a safety must. Use 15 to 20 watt LED or LED tube lights.

Bathroom also needs bright, cool white light. Nobody wants dim light when they’re shaving or putting on makeup. 9 to 12 watt LED is perfect.

Balcony and outdoor areas can handle daylight colour bulbs. They look nice and keep your outdoor space well lit at night.

Brand Reputation and Warranty

I’ve seen hundreds of cheap bulbs die in 3 to 6 months. Then customers come back angry. That’s why I only stock good brands at Dev Electricals.

Philips, Wipro, Bajaj, Syska, Crompton, and Havells are trusted names in India. They might cost 50 to 100 rupees more, but they last longer and come with warranty.

Always check the warranty. Good LED bulbs have 1 to 2 year warranty. If something goes wrong, you can replace it for free. Cheap local brands have no warranty and no guarantee.

Don’t save 50 rupees and buy a bad bulb. It’s not worth it. Quality bulbs work better, last longer, and save you money in the long run.

Which Type of Bulbs are Better for Indian Homes?

LED vs CFL vs Incandescent: Detailed Comparison

Let me put all three types side by side so you can see the clear winner.

LED bulbs use 8 to 12 watts, give 800 to 1000 lumens, last 15,000 to 50,000 hours, and cost 100 to 300 rupees. They’re the most energy efficient and long lasting option. No warm up time, instant full brightness.

CFL bulbs use 15 to 20 watts, give 800 to 1000 lumens, last 8,000 to 15,000 hours, and cost 50 to 150 rupees. They save energy but not as much as LED. They take time to reach full brightness and contain mercury.

Incandescent bulbs use 60 to 100 watts, give 800 to 1000 lumens, last only 1,000 hours, and cost 20 to 50 rupees. They’re cheap to buy but very expensive to run. They waste 90% energy as heat.

If you look at the big picture, LED wins hands down. Yes, it costs more upfront. But it pays for itself within 6 to 12 months through electricity savings. After that, it’s pure profit.

Best Bulb Type for Living Room, Kitchen, Bedroom, and Balcony

Let me give you my personal recommendations from years of experience at Dev Electricals.

For living room, use 12 to 15 watt LED bulbs in warm white colour. If you have a chandelier or fancy light, add some decorative LED bulbs. You can also use one LED tube light for main lighting and table lamps for corners.

For kitchen, go for bright LED tube lights or 18 to 20 watt LED bulbs in cool white. Kitchens need maximum light for safety and cleanliness. Don’t compromise here.

For bedroom, stick to 7 to 9 watt LED bulbs in warm white. If you like reading in bed, add a small reading lamp with 5 watt LED. Keep it soft and cozy.

For bathroom, use 9 to 12 watt LED in cool white. Bathrooms need bright, clear light. You can use one ceiling bulb or one small LED tube.

For balcony and outdoor areas, 9 to 12 watt LED in daylight colour works well. If you have a garden or driveway, consider LED floodlights for better coverage.

What Is the Lifespan of Different Light Bulbs?

Average Lifespan of LED, CFL, Halogen, and Smart Bulbs

This is a common question at our shop. People want to know how long their bulb will last before they need to replace it.

LED bulbs have the longest life. They last 15,000 to 50,000 hours depending on quality. If you use it 6 hours daily, a good LED bulb can last 7 to 10 years. Some premium ones claim 20 years, but 7 to 10 years is realistic.

CFL bulbs last 8,000 to 15,000 hours. That’s around 3 to 5 years with daily use. Not bad, but still much less than LED. Plus, CFL bulbs lose brightness over time. An old CFL gives dimmer light even if it’s still working.

Halogen bulbs last 2,000 to 4,000 hours. That’s about 1 to 2 years. They burn out faster because they run very hot. If you touch a halogen bulb with bare hands, the oil from your skin can damage it and reduce its life.

Smart bulbs are basically LED bulbs with electronics inside. They last 15,000 to 25,000 hours, similar to regular LED. But the electronic parts might fail before the LED does. Still, you get 5 to 7 years easily.

Incandescent bulbs last only 1,000 hours. That’s 6 to 8 months if you use them daily. This is one more reason to avoid them.

How to Extend the Life of Your Lighting

I’ve seen many customers complain that their bulbs die too soon. Here are some simple tips to make your bulbs last longer.

First, don’t switch them on and off too frequently. Every time you switch on a bulb, there’s a power surge. Too many on-off cycles reduce the lifespan, especially for CFL and LED. If you’re leaving a room for just 5 minutes, it’s okay to leave the light on.

Second, use good quality bulb holders and switches. Loose connections cause voltage fluctuations which damage the bulb. At Dev Electricals, we always check the wiring when customers complain about frequent bulb failures.

Third, keep your bulbs clean. Dust buildup traps heat and reduces efficiency. Wipe your bulbs every 2 to 3 months with a dry cloth. Switch off the power first.

Fourth, don’t use high wattage types of bulbs in low wattage fixtures. If your lamp says “Max 60W” don’t put a 100 watt bulb in it. It will overheat and damage both the bulb and the fixture.

Fifth, install voltage stabilizers if your area has voltage fluctuations. Sudden voltage spikes kill electronic items including LED and CFL bulbs. A simple stabilizer can save you hundreds of rupees in bulb replacements.

How Do I Know the Size of My Light Bulb?

Explanation of Bulb Sizes and Fitting Types

Many customers come to our shop with a burnt bulb in hand and say “I need this size.” But they don’t know what that size is called. Let me help you understand bulb fittings.

The fitting or base is the part that goes into the socket. It’s the metal part at the bottom of the bulb. There are different types of fittings, and you need to match it with your socket.

In India, we mainly use two types. B22 and E27. These codes might sound technical, but they’re simple once you know them.

B stands for bayonet fitting. This is the push and twist type. You push the bulb in and twist it to lock. Most Indian homes have B22 sockets. This is the most common fitting you’ll find.

E stands for Edison screw fitting. This is the screw type. You rotate the bulb to screw it in, just like a bottle cap. E27 is common in modern fixtures and imported lights.

The number tells you the diameter in millimeters. B22 means 22mm bayonet cap. E27 means 27mm screw base. Easy, right?

There are other types like GU10 and MR16 for spotlights and downlights. But B22 and E27 cover 90% of Indian homes.

How to Read Bulb Codes (E27, B22, GU10, etc.)

Let me decode these numbers for you so you never buy the wrong bulb again.

B22 is bayonet cap, 22mm diameter. This is the standard Indian fitting. If you have old-style bulb holders, they’re B22. Most ceiling lights, wall lights, and table lamps in India use B22.

E27 is Edison screw, 27mm diameter. This is becoming more common in modern homes and designer lights. If you buy imported fixtures or modern chandeliers, they might need E27 bulbs.

E14 is Edison screw, 14mm diameter. This is a small screw base used in candle bulbs for chandeliers and wall lamps. We call it the small screw fitting.

GU10 is a twist and lock fitting for spotlights. It has two pins that you push in and twist. Common in ceiling spotlights and downlights in kitchens and bathrooms.

MR16 is another spotlight fitting with two thin pins. It’s used in track lights and recessed ceiling lights. Usually needs a transformer because it runs on 12V.

When you’re buying online or from our shop, always check the fitting type. Don’t just look at the bulb shape. The fitting must match your socket, otherwise it won’t fit.

Most Common Light Bulb Base Sizes in India

B22 Bayonet Cap – Most Used in Indian Homes

B22 is the king of bulb fittings in India. If you check your home right now, 8 out of 10 types of bulbs will be B22. Why? Because this has been the standard in India for decades.

The bayonet cap has two small pins on the side. You line up the pins with the slots in the socket, push the bulb in, and give it a quarter turn. It locks in place with a click. To remove it, you do the opposite. Press and twist.

Every Indian electrician knows B22. Every hardware shop stocks B22 bulbs. It’s simple, reliable, and has been tested in Indian conditions for years.

At Dev Electricals, most of our LED, CFL, and decorative types of bulbs come in B22 fitting. We also stock E27, but B22 is the most popular by far.

If you’re building a new home or renovating, I suggest sticking with B22 for most rooms. It’s easier to find replacement types of bulbs, and they’re usually cheaper than E27.

E27 Screw Base – Common in Imported Fixtures

E27 is the international standard screw fitting. It’s more common in European and American lights. But in India, it’s gaining popularity, especially in modern homes and commercial spaces.

The E27 screw base is larger than E14. It’s about 27mm in diameter, which is roughly the size of a 10 rupee coin. You screw it in clockwise to install and counter-clockwise to remove. Simple as that.

Many designer lights, imported chandeliers, pendant lights, and modern fixtures use E27. If you buy lights from IKEA or international brands, they’ll likely need E27 bulbs.

The good news is that E27 LED bulbs are now easily available in India. Brands like Philips, Wipro, and Syska make them. At Dev Electricals, we keep a good stock of E27 bulbs for customers with modern fixtures.

One advantage of E27 is that it’s more secure. Once screwed in properly, it doesn’t loosen easily. B22 can sometimes get loose over time with vibrations.

GU10 / MR16 – Used in Ceiling Spotlights and Downlights

These are special fittings for spotlights and recessed lights. You don’t see them in regular bulb holders, but they’re very common in modern ceiling designs.

GU10 is a twist and lock system. The bulb has two thick pins at the base. You push it into the socket and twist 90 degrees. It locks firmly and gives focused light downwards. Perfect for ceiling spotlights in living rooms, kitchens, and showrooms.

GU10 bulbs run on 240V directly, so you don’t need any transformer. They’re easy to install and replace. We sell a lot of GU10 LED spotlights at our store for false ceiling installations.

MR16 is similar but uses two thin pins. The main difference is that MR16 usually runs on 12V, so you need a transformer. It’s used in track lighting, under-cabinet lights, and recessed ceiling lights.

MR stands for multifaceted reflector. These bulbs have a reflective coating inside that focuses the light into a beam. Great for accent lighting, artwork display, and task lighting.

If you’re doing false ceiling work or installing downlights, ask your electrician about GU10 or MR16. They give a very modern, clean look to your home.

Tips for Maintaining and Replacing Bulbs Safely

Switching Off Power Before Handling Bulbs

This is basic safety, but I have to mention it because many people skip this step. Always switch off the power before you touch any bulb or light fixture.

Why? Because even if the light switch is off, there might still be electricity in the wiring due to wrong wiring or faulty switches. I’ve seen people get shocks while changing different types of bulbs. It’s not worth the risk.

Go to your main switchboard and turn off the circuit breaker for that room. If you don’t know which breaker controls which room, just turn off the main switch. It takes 2 extra minutes but keeps you safe.

When you’re removing an old bulb, let it cool down first. LED bulbs don’t get very hot, but halogen and incandescent bulbs can burn your fingers. Wait 5 minutes after switching off.

If you need to reach a ceiling bulb, use a stable ladder or stool. Don’t stand on chairs or tables. Falls cause more injuries than electric shocks when it comes to bulb changing.

Cleaning and Disposal Tips for Old or Broken Bulbs

Cleaning your bulbs regularly helps them work better and last longer. But you need to do it safely.

For LED and incandescent bulbs, switch off the power and let them cool. Take them out and wipe with a dry microfiber cloth. Don’t use water or wet cloth. You can also use a small brush to remove dust from decorative bulbs.

For CFL bulbs, be extra careful. They contain mercury. If a CFL breaks, don’t use a vacuum cleaner. It will spread mercury vapor in your room. Instead, open windows for ventilation. Wear gloves. Pick up the pieces with cardboard or stiff paper. Put everything in a sealed plastic bag.

For disposal, don’t just throw old bulbs in regular trash. LED and CFL types of bulbs have electronic parts and chemicals. Many cities now have e-waste collection centers. Check with your local municipal office.

At Dev Electricals, we accept old bulbs from customers for proper disposal. Many companies also offer exchange programs where you get a discount on new LED bulbs when you return old CFLs.

If you have old incandescent or halogen types of bulbs, wrap them in newspaper before throwing. Broken glass can hurt garbage collectors. Be responsible.

Conclusion: Thoughts on Types of Bulbs

After reading this guide, I hope you feel confident about choosing the right bulb for your home. Let me sum it up quickly.

LED bulbs are the best choice for Indian homes in 2025. They save electricity, last for years, and come in all shapes, sizes, and colours. Yes, they cost more upfront, but they pay for themselves in less than a year through electricity savings.

Smart bulbs are great if you want modern features and love technology. But for most people, regular LED bulbs do the job perfectly.

CFL bulbs are okay if you’re on a very tight budget, but I suggest spending a bit more and going for LED. It’s worth it.

Avoid incandescent bulbs unless you really love that old school warm glow. And even then, LED warm white bulbs give you the same feeling without wasting power.

Always check the fitting type before buying. B22 for most Indian homes, E27 for modern fixtures, and GU10 for spotlights.

Choose the right colour temperature for each room. Warm white for bedrooms and living rooms. Cool white for kitchens and bathrooms.

Buy from trusted brands and check the warranty. Don’t waste money on cheap, local bulbs.

At Dev Electricals, we help customers choose the right lighting for their homes every day. Visit our store in Kolkata or check our website for the latest products and offers.

Lighting is not just about seeing in the dark. It’s about creating the right mood, saving money, and making your home beautiful. Choose wisely, and your lights will serve you for years.

For more helpful tips on home lighting, check out our blog section. We regularly share advice on electrical products, home improvement, and energy saving ideas.

FAQs on Types of Bulbs

Which type of bulb saves the most energy in India?

LED bulbs save the most energy compared to all other types. They use 80% less electricity than incandescent bulbs and 50% less than CFL bulbs. For example, a 9 watt LED gives the same light as a 60 watt incandescent bulb. If you replace all bulbs in your home with LED, you can save 500 to 1000 rupees per month on your electricity bill. This makes LED the most energy efficient and cost effective option for Indian homes.

Are LED bulbs worth the price?

Yes, absolutely. LED bulbs cost more when you buy them, usually 100 to 300 rupees compared to 50 rupees for CFL or 20 rupees for incandescent. But LED bulbs last 15,000 to 50,000 hours, which is 5 to 10 years. They also save so much electricity that they pay for themselves in 6 to 12 months. After that, you’re just saving money. Plus, you don’t have to climb up and change bulbs every few months. So yes, LEDs are worth every rupee.

Can I replace a CFL bulb with an LED bulb?

Yes, you can replace CFL with LED directly. Just check the fitting type. If your CFL is B22, buy a B22 LED bulb. If it’s E27, buy E27 LED. Make sure the new LED bulb gives the same or more lumens as your old CFL so you get equal or better brightness. LED bulbs fit in the same socket as CFL, so no wiring changes are needed. Many customers at Dev Electricals switch from CFL to LED and see immediate benefits in their electricity bills.

What is the ideal bulb brightness for a bedroom or living room?

For a bedroom, 400 to 800 lumens is ideal. This gives soft, comfortable light perfect for relaxing and sleeping. Use 7 to 9 watt LED bulbs in warm white colour. For a living room, you need brighter light, around 1500 to 3000 lumens depending on room size. Use 12 to 15 watt LED bulbs or a combination of ceiling lights and table lamps. Living rooms need more light for reading, watching TV, and family activities. Always choose a warm white colour for both rooms to create a cozy feel.

Which bulb base should I choose — B22 or E27?

Choose based on your existing socket. Check what type of bulb holder you have. If it has a push and twist mechanism, it’s B22. If it has a screw mechanism, it’s E27. In India, most homes have B22 sockets, so B22 bulbs are easier to find and usually cheaper. But if you have modern or imported fixtures, they might need E27. You cannot use B22 bulb in E27 socket or vice versa without an adapter. Always match the bulb base with your socket type.

What’s the difference between tube lights and LED bulbs?

Tube lights are long, straight tubes that give bright, uniform light over large areas. They’re perfect for kitchens, offices, and big rooms. LED bulbs are round or shaped bulbs used in regular sockets for focused or general lighting. Both can be LED technology now. LED tube lights replace old fluorescent tubes and use 50% less electricity. LED bulbs replace traditional bulbs. Choose tube lights for large area lighting and LED bulbs for specific spots, lamps, and smaller rooms. Both save energy if they’re LED technology.