LED vs Incandescent
Energy use, lifespan, light quality, and dimming compared
Updated 2026-07-20
What we compared
- Energy use and cost inputs
- Colour rendering
- Dimming compatibility
- Lifespan and replacement
LED and incandescent bulbs differ most clearly in energy use and lifespan, while dimming behaviour and light quality depend on the specific LED and controls chosen.
Energy & Cost
An LED can produce a similar amount of light with substantially less power than an incandescent bulb. Actual savings depend on wattage, daily use, electricity price, purchase cost, and how long each bulb lasts.
Colour Rendering
Incandescent lamps are commonly treated as a high-colour-rendering reference, while LED colour rendering varies by product. Check the stated CRI and, where colour discrimination matters, the manufacturer's fuller colour-quality information rather than assuming every LED of the same colour temperature will look alike.
Dimming
Incandescent lamps generally work across a broad dimming range on controls designed for them. LED lamps and drivers must be explicitly dimmable and compatible with the installed control and load; otherwise the result can include a limited range, flicker, noise, or failure to switch cleanly.
Which Should You Choose?
LED is the practical default for energy use and longevity. Buyers who value incandescent-style warmth and dimming should look for a high-CRI, warm-dimming LED and confirm that it is compatible with the existing dimmer.
Sources
- 1Purchasing Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs
U.S. Department of Energy
- 2LED Basics
U.S. Department of Energy